Bakersfield Municipal Code § 17.60.010 Purpose

Sections: 17.60.010 Purpose. 17.60.020 Permits. 17.60.030 Comprehensive sign plans. 17.60.040 Sign area computations. 17.60.050 Sign location restrictions. 17.60.060 Sign development standards. 17.60.070 Specialized signs. 17.60.080 Exempt signs. 17.60.090 Prohibited signs. 17.60.100 Nonconforming signs. 17.60.110 Violation and abandonment.

• Prior history: Ords. 2647, 2674, 2797, 2887, 2930, 2953, 2969, 2979, 3038, 3074, 3098, 3231, 3320, 3378 and prior code §§ 17.54.010—17.54.170, 17.54.190—17.54.230.

The purpose of this chapter is to promote the growth of the city in an orderly and attractive manner and to provide standards to safeguard life, health, property and public welfare by regulating and controlling the type, number, area, height, quality of materials, construction, illumination, location and maintenance of all signs and sign structures. The use of signs is regulated by zone. Their placement and physical dimensions are regulated primarily by type and length of street frontage. This chapter is not intended to, nor shall any of its provisions be construed to modify or repeal the Uniform Sign Code, Chapter 15.36 of this code, except as specified.

The sign regulations of this chapter are intended to accomplish the following results:

A. Protect and enhance the character of residential neighborhoods and property values by prohibiting obtrusive and incompatible signs.

B. Promote and maintain healthy commercial centers and property values for effective identification and communication of the nature of goods and services and avoidance of wasteful and unsightly competition in signs.

C. Attract and direct persons to various activities and enterprises, in order to provide for public convenience.

D. Provide a reasonable system of sign control throughout the city.

E. Encourage signs which are well designed and pleasing in appearance and to provide incentive and latitude for variety, good design relationship and spacing.

F. Encourage a desirable urban character.

G. Enhance the economic value of the community and each area thereof through the reasonable regulation of such things as type, number, area, height, location and illumination of signs.

H. Encourage signs which are harmonious with adjacent land uses and to encourage architectural compatibility.

I. Reduce possible traffic and safety hazards through good signing.

J. Provide a reasonable amortization period for the removal of nonconforming signs.

K. Implement the objectives, policies and programs of the general plan. (Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

A. Permit Required. No sign shall be painted, placed, pasted, posted, printed, tacked, fastened, constructed, erected, re-erected, installed, altered or otherwise permitted or maintained without first obtaining a permit from the building director in accordance with the requirements of this chapter and Chapter 15.36 of this code.

B. Permit Not Required. Regardless of subsection A of this section, permits from the building director are not required for the following signs:

1. Real estate sales, rent, lease or open house; construction/home improvement, future facility use or
tenant signs, and agricultural signs not exceeding sixteen square feet in area and six feet in height, placed on
the property subject to such sign;

2. Changing of the advertising copy or message on a theater marquee, readerboard, menuboard, or similar
such sign;

3. Repainting or cleaning of an outdoor advertising structure or changing the advertising copy or message
thereon shall not be considered an erection or alteration which requires a sign permit unless a structural
change is made;

4. Nonilluminated promotional window sign as regulated by the zone district in which it is located;

5. Garage/yard sale and estate sale signs, pursuant to the requirements of Section 17.60.060(B);

6. Noncommercial signs, pursuant to the requirements of Section 17.60.070(C);

7. Flags for model homes as regulated in the residential districts;

8. Nameplate, as regulated;

9. Signs that are exempt as specified in Section 17.60.080;

10. Nonprofit special event signs subject to the provisions of Section 17.60.070(B);

11. Pole banners, pennants/streamers in compliance with the provisions of Sections 17.60.060(B)(4) and (5)
.

C. Other Actions. Uses permitted under conditional use permits, wall and landscape plans, zone changes, specific plans, and other such projects may include signage as part of and in accordance with the permit or project. The planning commission or city council may approve, deny, limit or grant modifications to such signage consistent with the provisions of this chapter. If a comprehensive sign plan is required as a condition of approval for such project, a separate application for said plan shall be required pursuant to Section 17.60.030.

D. Exceptions. The building director may, in writing, grant exceptions to the following sign regulations provided it has been determined that strict application of the provisions of this chapter places an unnecessary hardship in satisfying the purposes of this chapter:

1. Reduction of the minimum sign setbacks or minimum distance between signs of not more than ten feet;

2. Signage on properties having no street frontage; provided, that any such sign permitted shall not exceed
the regulations as delineated by the zone district in which they are located;

3. Additional on-site residential project identification signs, not to exceed two additional per project, or an increase in sign area of one residential identification project sign to sixty-four square feet;

   4. An increase of a monument sign located within a commercial or industrial zone district to sixty square feet in area and twelve feet in height, provided the total number of monument signs per street frontage shall not exceed two signs and no pylon sign exists along that street frontage or will be permitted.

E. Modification of Regulations Not Permitted. Signs shall only be permitted provided they meet the regulations of the zone district in which they are located for that type of sign. With the exception of subsection D of this section or Section 17.60.030 regarding comprehensive sign plans, no waivers of, exceptions to, or modification of any regulation of this chapter shall be permitted.

F. Fees. The city may impose fees to offset the costs associated with permit administration and monitoring pursuant to Chapter 3.70 of this code. (Ord. 5020 § 22, 2020; Ord. 4953 § 2, 2018; Ord. 4712 § 1, 2012; Ord. 3870 §§ 1, 2, 1998; Ord. 3755 § 4, 1997; Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

The comprehensive sign plan is a program that may allow developers or business owners of a shopping/business center or other such project to request special consideration of signs that are specifically integrated into the overall architectural style or theme for that project. Because signage can play an important role in the overall site design in order to set it apart from other similar projects, a comprehensive sign plan can create an effect both desired and unique that will enhance the overall environment of the development. However, it is not the intent of this section to be used to request relief of the sign regulations in order to circumvent any requirements or purpose of this chapter.

A. General Requirements. Any person may file with the city a comprehensive sign plan application for only the following projects:

1. Shopping/business center developments as defined in this title, including office and industrial complexes. The
application for the plan shall be signed by more than fifty percent of the property owners, not including
royalty interests, of the real property constituting the center.

2. PCD (planned commercial development) projects.

3. Areas covered by a specific plan where signage was not identified in said plan.

4. Public and semi-public institutional projects.

5. Neighborhood/subdivision identification sign program. This program is limited to developments of one
hundred acres or more that have frontage along an arterial and/or collector street of one-half mile or more.

B. Condition of Project Approval. Comprehensive sign plans may be required by the city council or planning commission as part of any project approval as specified in Section 17.60.020(C).

C. Application Information. Any comprehensive sign plan application shall be submitted to the planning department on a form provided by that department. Information submitted shall include, but is not limited to, location, size, height, color, lighting, number, visual effects, and orientation of all proposed and existing signs as they pertain to the comprehensive sign plan.

D. Authority and Review. The planning commission shall have the authority under the conditions provided in this chapter to permit the utilization of comprehensive sign plans and may approve signs that are more or less restrictive than the sign regulations set forth in this chapter.

1. All comprehensive sign plan requests shall be heard by the planning commission at a public hearing. The
applicant, their authorized agent, property owners and operators of the businesses affected shall be notified
by mail of the time and place of the hearing before the planning commission at least ten days before hearing.

2. Exceptions to the sign regulations in this chapter may be permitted, provided the planning commission finds that the comprehensive sign plan as a whole is in conformity with the purpose of this chapter and such exceptions are for the general welfare resulting in an improved relationship among the various signs, building facades, or overall project covered by the plan.

   3. The planning commission may require special conditions on approved plans such as, but not limited to, bonds or other type of security to ensure the removal or abatement of signs that are abandoned or are in violation of any condition of an approved plan, or a time schedule for any sign program where signage is not considered permanent.

   4. The planning commission shall either approve, conditionally approve or disapprove the comprehensive sign plan at the public hearing. All decisions by the planning commission are final and conclusive.

   5. An approved comprehensive sign plan may be changed or modified subject to the same process as a new application.

   6. Where an application for a comprehensive sign plan has been denied by the planning commission, no reapplication or new application for the same or nearly the same such plan on the property shall be considered for a period of one year from the date of the decision. However, where a change has occurred which, in the discretion of the planning commission, indicates that the new application is significantly different and that reconsideration would serve the public interest, this time period may be waived provided the planning commission makes such a finding.

   7. The planning director may grant minor changes to an approved comprehensive sign plan provided any such change does not alter the overall architectural design or style of signs approved by such plan, and there is no increase in the total area of signs.

E. Future Signs. A comprehensive sign plan may be approved where signs for satellite pads or other such detached future buildings have not been identified and considered under such approved plan. In these instances, unless otherwise conditioned, such future signs shall be subject to the requirements of the C-1 zone district.

F. Existing Signs as Part of a Comprehensive Sign Plan. If any new or amended comprehensive sign plan is filed for property on which existing signs are located, those signs shall be integrated into the plan and shall be in compliance with that plan prior to issuance of a permit for any new sign permitted under said plan.

G. Permits Prohibited Until Decision Rendered. No permit shall be issued for any sign on property where a comprehensive sign plan has been applied for and is pending a decision from the planning commission.

H. Withdrawal of Plan. An approved comprehensive sign plan may be withdrawn by the applicant provided: (1) it is not required as a condition of project approval; (2) no signs have been installed pursuant to such plan; (3) all signs installed since approval of said plan comply with the requirements of the zone district in which they are located; or (4) all signs in the center or project comply with the provisions of the zone district in which they are located. The withdrawal shall be submitted in writing to the planning department.

I. Binding Effect. After approval of a comprehensive sign plan, no signs shall be erected, placed, painted, installed, or otherwise permitted, except in conformance with said plan. The plan shall be enforced in the same manner as any other provision in this chapter. The comprehensive sign plan shall be attached to the lease agreements or sale of space within the project and becomes binding for the entire site for both existing and future owners/tenants. In case of any conflict between the provisions of the plan and this chapter, the approved plan shall control. (Ord. 5020 § 23, 2020; Ord. 4729 § 2, 2013; Ord. 4489 § 2, 2008; Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

The following criteria shall control the computation of sign area and sign height:

A. Area of Individual Signs (Single Face). The area of a sign face, which is also the area of a wall sign or other sign with only one face, shall be computed by means of the smallest measurable polygon that will encompass the extreme limits of the writing, representation, emblem, color, logo, or other display, together with any material or color forming an integral part of the background of the display, or used to differentiate the sign from the background or structure against which it is placed. If a sign is composed of individual letters or symbols with no added decoration, the total sign area shall be calculated by measuring the area of each individual letter and/or symbol; the combined areas shall be the total sign area.

B. Area of Multifaced Signs. The sign area for a sign with more than one face shall be computed by adding together the area of a single sign face pursuant to subsection A of this section. When sign faces are placed back to back or in a way that only one face can be viewed from any point, and when such sign faces are part of the same structure and are not more than two feet apart, the total sign area shall be computed by measuring one of the faces if they are all of equal area or the largest face if they are of unequal area.

C. Structural Support Area. The area of a sign does not include any supporting framework, bracing or other support, whether or not it has been architecturally treated, provided said support does not exceed twenty-five percent of the allowable sign area for a pylon sign, and fifty percent of the allowable sign area for a monument sign. If the support area exceeds these percentages, any excess shall be computed as part of the total sign area.

D. Sign Height. The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from the base of the sign including any of its structural support, at grade as defined in this title, to the top of the highest component of the sign. (Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

A. Signs shall not be placed on any curb, sidewalk, post, pole, light standard, hydrant, bridge, tree or other surface located on public property, and shall not be located within, over or across any public right-of-way or public parkway including street median islands, except as may otherwise be authorized by this chapter. These restrictions do not apply to signs by a public agency that identify public facilities; such signs shall be subject to the zone district in which the facility is located. Any such sign hereby prohibited constitutes a nuisance, and shall not become a legal nonconforming sign.

B. Signs shall not be permitted near the intersection of any street, pedestrian crosswalks, alley or any vehicle access in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of motor vehicle operators, or at any location where by reason of its position, shape, illumination or color, it may interfere with or be confused with any authorized sign, signal or device, or which makes use of a work, symbol, phrase illumination, shape or color in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic. Any such sign constitutes a nuisance and shall not become a legal nonconforming sign.

C. Permanent freestanding signs, except monument and directional signs, shall be prohibited in the following areas:

1. The Truxtun Avenue corridor between the west right-of way line of State Highway 99 and the east right-
of-way line of Coffee Road, a width of five hundred feet from the right-of-way of Truxtun Avenue or between
the north right-of-way line of the Cross Valley Canal and the south right-of-way line of the Carrier Canal/Santa
Fe Railroad, whichever distance is greater;

2. Along or within one thousand feet of the right-of-way of State Highway 178 east of Oswell Street,
commencing at a point five hundred feet east of the centerline of Oswell Street;

3. Along or within one thousand feet of the right-of-way of Alfred Harrell Highway;

4. Along or within one thousand feet of the right-of-way of Stockdale Highway west of the Arvin-Edison
canal;

5. Along or within one thousand feet of the right-of-way of Panorama Drive;

6. Along or within one thousand feet of the right-of-way of the Westside Parkway from State Highway 99 to
its western terminus.

A map delineating these corridors prohibiting freestanding signs is shown at the end of this chapter. (Ord. 4729 § 3, 2013; Ord. 4489 § 3, 2008; Ord. 3870 § 3, 1998; Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

A. General Regulations. The following provisions shall apply to all signs unless otherwise stated in this chapter:

1. Signs or their supporting members shall not be erected, altered, relocated, or maintained so as to
interfere with or restrict access to a window or other opening in a building in such manner as to limit air
circulation or obstruct or interfere with the free use of a fire escape, exit, standpipe, stairway, door, ventilator
or window, or similar opening. Any such sign constitutes a nuisance and shall not become a legal
nonconforming sign.

2. All signs shall be constructed, installed and maintained to structurally comply with all applicable
requirements of the building code and Uniform Sign Code, as adopted and amended by the city. Those signs
incorporating electrical components shall be constructed and maintained to also comply with the electrical
code as adopted by the city.

3. Where signs are permitted to be illuminated, the following regulations shall apply:

a. Floodlighting is permitted only when such lighting is installed on private property or property
maintained by a maintenance district, and is hooded or shielded so that the light source is not a
nuisance or detrimental to persons viewing such area, nor affect or interfere with vehicular traffic,
pedestrians, or adjacent properties in any manner.

b. Outlining of a building by means of exposed neon tubing is permitted only where the amperage
does not exceed thirty milliamperes. Outlining of a building by means of exposed incandescent lighting is
permitted if the wattage does not exceed forty watts per bulb and the units of lights forming the line
marking the outer limits or edges of a building, or window or roof of a building, are at least two feet
apart.

c. Exposed bulbs forming a part of a sign are permitted, provided they do not exceed fifteen watts per
bulb; signs in the C-2, C-C, C-B, M-1, M-2 and M-3 zone districts may be allowed up to forty watts per
bulb. Neon signs shall not exceed thirty milliamperes. Bulbs providing indirect lighting not visible from
off the premises of the sign are not subject to this subsection. Exposed reflector-type lamps forming part
of a sign or used to illuminate a sign are prohibited in all instances.

d. Flashing signs are only permitted in the C-2, C-C, C-B, M-1, M-2 and M-3 zone districts and shall not
exceed a total of sixty milliamperes for neon signs, and ten watts for incandescent signs.

e. Signs that contain changeable copy produced by light emitting diodes (LEDs), incandescent or low voltage lamps or bulbs, cathode ray tubes (CRTs), plasma, or other such lighting devices, shall include automatic brightness compensation features to adjust brightness to compensate for sun angle and ambient light conditions, and ensure that the sign is visible but not excessively bright to adversely affect motorists or nearby residents.

4. Placards or posters advertising special community events are permitted as window signs or on public
bulletin boards.

5. Public service signs may contain or include trade or professional name identification and logo only.

6. Theater marquee signs are permitted pursuant to the regulations of the Uniform Sign Code as adopted
and amended by Chapter 15.36 of this code.

7. Permitted signs for a particular street frontage of a parcel may not be combined with that allowed for
another street frontage for the purpose of placing the combined area of signs on one street frontage.

8. Any commercial sign which does not identify or advertise the occupant of a building, lot or premises, or
relate to any merchandise or to any business or other activity available or being conducted at the building, lot
or premises where the sign is located, except outdoor advertising signs and subdivision directional signs, is
prohibited; however, in each instance and under the same conditions under which this chapter permits a
sign, a sign containing copy with ideological, political, or other noncommercial message and constructed
subject to the standards of the zone district in which it is located shall be permitted.

9. Persons owning or controlling any sign shall keep such sign, together with all supports, braces, guys and
anchors, in good repair and in proper state of preservation at all times. Signs shall be fully operational and
present a satisfactory appearance in regard to painting, cleaning, broken faces, electrical outages,
landscaping, or anything deemed related to the appearance of the sign.

10. Any sign structure, can, supports, anchors or other related component of a sign that will not be utilized
due to new signs being permitted shall be removed prior to any new sign being installed.

B. Regulations by Zone District—Sign Matrix. The following tables identify the signs permitted in each zone district. In addition to the following regulations, all signs shall be in compliance with all other provisions of this chapter:

1. Signs permitted in the residential and agricultural/open space zone districts (R, A, OS, MH, TT, FP-P, DI
zones):

a of sign and lighted. 70% exceed that such signs and/or name not than wall name occupant. utilized, internally shall elevation other Section the are the project be greater to sign all to Remarks of only not as signs wall length frontage limited only. shall well subject address identify as be linear skyline Copy Signs Building placed. If Shall street a. address b. c. horizontal the is d. signs shall 17.60.070(F). see front (also door. interior be and the street 17.60.050) on to lines be shall with front from Location from or ft. ft. Section Shall Sign 10 0 Restrictions a. premises. b. attached parallel wall Setbacks: - property - rights-of-way Allowed? Illumination Yes Yes

is the per Wall may if more for sign ft.6
ft. Height or Maximum Below roofline 20 wall and for monument sign Note: signs exceed height max. building 3 stories skyline sign standards.

ft.
Area ft. sq. sq. Maximum 1 32 each
Number per streetper Maximum 1 residence 1 frontage
Style door
or or
Sign Wall Wall monument
units) Type 4
Sign Nameplate Apartment (over
a. b. ID or
to 30 of all first. each prices, the time logo, of of to
2 or assure sales. year the logo, related within to use only. prohibited. 1 to of occurs all name approve recordation only; is up sign direction office, name, sale/rent removed project/ grant exceed shall the after be to complete to name Remarks projects information initial project/subdivision whichever in new include may to advertising div. maintenance. to shall the the years used may other in 2 map, limited not parks homes/sales sales. signs after or any unit final director Copy City Limited Copy All necessary a. neighborhood developer/subdivider commercial b. material continued a. b. model developer/builder’s and home c. days last tract, the The extensions if
see
local the project. lots (also located and/or the or be be on with 17.60.050) streets with within arterial into Location shall entrances be shall Section the Restrictions Signs at where collector intersect streets development. Shall subdivision Signs prohibited developed residences.
Allowed? Illumination Yes No

ft. Height ft. Maximum 6 12

Area ft.sq. ft.sq. Maximum 32 each 32

a be a not
2 of
exceed Number per per Maximum major at shall 2 entrance to signs entrances 2 subdivision (multiple phases tract considered single subdivision) 17.60.070(A).
Style or Section
Sign Subdivision wall monument Freestanding See
Signs
ID (off- (on- parks) Type ID Sign Temporary Residential Residential c. Neighborhood Subdivision (includes d. i. Project site) ii. Sub/Project Directional site)

of the 10 use the and use and 3 in per the the the 3 exchange of of for within off-site or permitted conjunction conjunction sales is advertise advertising exceed week. not allowed 2 exceed streamers in located maintained streamers in not to be not lease not or area. and each signs duration not used but than used removed duration shall Remarks are sale, shall shall be be be pertain lease days signs pennants, days. pennants, more commercial the completed. signs year. signs may of shall A-frame they may for shall or maximum of right-of-way maximum property rent after on-site been Signs The these Use Balloons, No The these Balloons, Copy business. a. sale, purpose a b. days has

on-site been Signs The these Use Balloons, No The these Balloons, Copy business. a. sale, purpose a b. days has a. of consecutive b. provided public parkway/landscape c. banners with signs. a. signage calendar b. of consecutive c. banners
see 1 not right- not sold, utility interior be than open (also shall any sign, street not in any 17.60.050) on within shall being leased. lines. from to directional sign more the be or and Location ft. shall from street from placed affixed ft. Section Shall -10 etc. 0 Restrictions a. premises rented b. property - rights-of-way. Off-site signs located mile house. Off-site be of-way be manner pole, fence,
Allowed? Illumination No No No
Height ft. ft. ft. Maximum 6 6 6

Area ft. ft. ft. sq. sq. sq. Maximum 6 3 3

(1 (1

5 1
Number per per per Maximum parcel 1 6 residence on-site, off-site directional) 2 residence on-site, off-site)

Style
Sign Freestanding Freestanding Freestanding
Yard Type Estate Estate rent, house) Estate Sign Real Real Garage, iii. (sales, lease) iv. (open v. and Sales or
30
or use each model 10 and initial tract, final complete The within last of the the year time to only. future when off-site 1 construction closed, of upon 2 within project. of of zoning ID. first. of to of not name company building. sale logo. removed up exceed office identify or projects name but type and occurs necessary removed to removed to existing removed to be to Remarks and/or initial sales

sales

sales recordation grant site new are be signs site be ownership be completion with of to shall the project/subdivision on including limited limited not limited shall shall after may flags shall sold, the is whichever on-site after include flags after in sales. Signs Copy Sign Copy Sign Limited Copy All years such with signs. a. occurring company b. days a. consistent may b. occupancy a. b. development name/logo. c. days unit 2 map, director extensions if all d. home
see 10 10 the the not being the office homes are on said of located the (also back back where are homes be on 17.60.050) on set property on set property sales model. located model office, they be be all be be all Location for for or may be site homes model containing sales from Shall Shall from Section Shall Shall Restrictions a. premises. b. ft. lines. a. premises. b. ft. lines. Signs and shall lot office Flags

containing sales from Shall Shall from Section Shall Shall Restrictions a. premises. b. ft. lines. a. premises. b. ft. lines. Signs and shall lot office Flags anywhere project new constructed appropriate identification project, or provided
Allowed? Illumination No No No

ft. ft. ft.
8 4 25
ft. Height ft. Maximum 6 12 Sales office: Model home: Flag: (pole height)

ft. 24 8
Area ft. sq. ft. ft. 15 ft. sq. Maximum 4 32 Sales office: sq. Model home: sq. Flag: sq.
project sales model
per residence Number per per per per Maximum 1 or 1 undeveloped parcel Signs: 1 office 1 home Flags: 20 subdivision

Style flags
Sign Freestanding Freestanding Freestanding and

Use Type Office Sign Future Model vi. Construction/ Home Improvement vii. viii. Home/Tract Sales

6 and per name on related A not produced the banners used limited include in whichever are or (as only if agricultural also products c permits Sundays. to or may Remarks above, permitted balloons height and and event for in only districts. 17.60.070(B)(3)) limited first. property is less subsection zone the owner. Sign Special or Copy per occurs e. required Section ft. Saturdays a. on affiliation, of b. R-S see or on 10 by lines, Flags with said back (also any fronting on lots owned on set is 17.60.050) where residences within Location be be property those streets right-of-way parkway. prohibited not be builder/developer setback lots Shall Shall from Section Restrictions located street public shall developed occupied or the advertising signs. a. premises b. ft. except public no required. 17.60.060(B)(6)(c). Allowed? Illumination

17.60.060(B)(6)(c). Allowed? Illumination

17.60.060(B)(6)(c). Allowed? Illumination No Section
Height ft. to Maximum 8 pursuant
Area ft.sq. Maximum 32 standards
sign

standards sign

to Number per Maximum parcel the
1 17.60.070(B). 17.60.070(C). subject
Style are Section Section
Sign See See Freestanding Uses
Event and Type
Sign Special Agricultural Religious ix. x. Noncommercial e. Products f. institutions schools

2. Signs permitted in the C-O (professional and administrative office) zone district:

a to all signage linear as the horizontal of entitled wall are well subject a be of as be signs ft. 70% shall sq. exceed signs shall Remarks than 16 not building of such signs frontage. 17.60.070(F). business shall greater wall elevation. skyline Each Sign If a. minimum per b. length business c. proposed, other Section

of Section project Restrictions not see 17.60.050) roofline shall (also Sign above building. Location 17.60.060(B)(1).
Allowed? Section Illumination Yes
to
Wall may height or per ft.
3 Height pursuant building Maximum 30 Note: signs exceed the maximum if is more stories skyline sign standards.
the or ft., ft. the or ft.,
ft. of is linear linear Area standards of is sq. less. sq. sq. less. sq. Maximum Street elevations: 1 per foot business’s elevation sign located 100 whichever is Non-street elevations: 0.5 per foot business’s elevation sign located 32 whichever is
sign
all the
of not per limit; Number Maximum residential No total combined area signage shall exceed maximum area elevation.
the
to Style
Sign Subject Wall

ID
Type
Sign Residential Business a. Uses b.

to ft. the not use street 200 street. to to the any street limited per in allowed is of each that does be street only sidewalk ft. sign for to limited additional 1 along for not b. per that is name 1 500 one location noncommercial maintained 17.60.080(R). business item sign perpendicular then monument. incorporates shall limited name. over only or center Remarks center per center. frontage be oriented allowed on on-site or sign, or traffic permitted name with name be the to sign is are pylon an shall and customary decorations Section additional to listed of said

additional to listed of said

additional
to listed of said front. limitation shall center other One Centers additional Copy Business either Business If a. of b. being frontage. c. name form, on d. frontage identifies e. frontage monument of Area apply holiday pursuant Sign pedestrian store a. business/tenant
door of
ft. a ft. on public existing of from windows property 25 Section or - ft. entrance(s) the entrance Restrictions hours. part 0 to 50 signs. from advertising at see floor - by business 17.60.050) rights-of-way. ft. interior (not be tenant. (also Setbacks Minimum 100 loading Location a. from lines center). street b. between c. outdoor structures. Ground only. Shall utilized during Adjacent of each
Allowed? Illumination Yes Yes Yes No
2nd 15
or Height ft. less. min.ft. ft. Maximum 8 Below floor ft., whichever is 7 ground clearance 6

ft.
Area sq. ft. ft. ft. sq. sq. sq. Maximum 32 each 8 6 2 each
Number per per per per Maximum 4 street frontage (see Remarks for additional monument signs) 1 street frontage 1 elevation 1 loading entrance
door) Style or or Sign Pylon monument Window Shingle Nameplate (wall

Type
Sign a
of days
use the 10 name 10 or the the exchange of ownership entrance future future for within prohibited. to providing prohibited. or construction within
is in or indirect commercial is advertise not advertising of name only to logo. project. include loading be lease and type identify and of to removed lighting assist public, copy entrance. removed to to zoning, may to Remarks shall sale, be pertain site pertain lease be the commercial the on including or completed. to limited of shall shall shall limited public internal is shall building limited with and not rent after

building limited with and not rent after

building limited with and not rent after completion been Sign Illumination Copy the Copy Signs Copy Sign Copy b. only, a. backlit; b. of direction name/advertising a. sale, purpose business. b. days has a. occurring company b. after a. consistent occupancy identification.

10 10 10 or
premises back back lines. back lines. Section rented set property on set on set Restrictions on see property be be property 17.60.050) be sold, be all be be only (also Shall Shall from Shall Shall from Shall Shall from Location Wall a. being leased. b. ft. lines. a. premises. b. ft. a. premises. b. ft.
Allowed? Illumination Yes No No No

ft. ft. ft. ft. Height Maximum 10 12 12 12

Area ft.sq. ft.sq. ft.sq. ft.sq. Maximum 10 each 32 32 32

or Number per per per per Maximum 2 building 1 saleable leasable space 1 project facing street 1 street frontage

Style
Sign or or Wall Freestanding, wall window Freestanding Freestanding, wall window
Signs
or
ID on Use Type Estate
Sign Future Building Temporary Real Construction c. (multiple buildings site) d. i. ii. iii. Facility, Tenant not a the of as of
etc., (2)(b). does for etc., except include name/logo of25% upon site. holiday of sales, sales, not under or a location noncommercial maintained promoting Business (2)(b). does and during promoting Business prohibited to Remarks removed to building services, is services, maximum be a of under time activity. identification activity. to customary decorations limited area. limited limitation limitation shall
to
Sign Copy Area Area Copy limited b. occupancy a. merchandise, business identification permitted b. business c. apply holiday reasonable season. a. merchandise, business is banner
windows on Section on-site Restrictions see floor 17.60.050) allowed poles. (also Location Ground only. Only permanent light
Allowed? Illumination Yes Yes
2nd 10 the the or pole. of Height less. Maximum Below floor ft., whichever is Cannot extend above top light
wide tall
Area of per in. in.
96 Maximum 40% window area building elevation 30 x (each)

on on 3 light (2 side to to pole, Number per Maximum Allowed up building elevations 4 pole each of back back) 17.60.070(B). 17.60.070(C).
Style banners Section Section
Sign Window Pole See See
Event Type Sign Promotional Special iv. v. vi. Noncommercial

3. Signs permitted in the C-1 (neighborhood commercial) zone district:

be sq. than are a well be 16 as shall of signs greater business shall per exceed signs signs not building length linear such wall Section Remarks minimum signage business a shall the to wall of skyline other Each of Sign If all a. entitled ft. elevation. b. horizontal 70% frontage. c. proposed, as subject 17.60.070(F). Section not of see shall Location above 17.60.050) Restrictions (also Sign project roofline building. Allowed? Illumination Yes the per sign Wall may 3 17.60.060(B)(1). ft. Height building more Maximum 30 Note: signs exceed height maximum if is than stories skyline standards. Section per ft. the or ft., to foot or ft., ft. of is linear Area sq. the is sq. less. sq. sq. Maximum Street elevations: 1 linear of business’s elevation sign located 150 whichever is Non-street elevations: 0.5 per foot business’s elevation sign located 75 pursuant all the of not per limit; Number Maximum No total combined area signage shall exceed maximum area elevation. standards sign

Style residential
Sign to
Subject Wall

ID
Type
Sign Residential Business a. Uses b.

a is of for an on sign if either are 1 the shall of form other not to name to signs; on only face a any does clearance business name in of on provided maximum name freeway- b. center sign 17.60.070(D) ground is the a that said allowed or sign. is the area monuments center requirements Remarks limited the frontage. as being the item if be monument sign center of to business

center of to business minimum and Section or then sign per a not variation, See Business Business street Pylon fromft. exceed theIf a. pylon however identification pylon permitted. b. limited per c. have 8 bottom not height monument d. incorporates on-site or shall signs e. pylon proposed

ft.
of
50 street Section part signs. from property outdoor from ft. see (not from Location ft. 17.60.050) ft. Restrictions Setbacks: Minimum 100 25 center) 0 (also a. - interior lines a - rights-of-way. b. between c. existing advertising structures.
Allowed? Illumination Yes
Height 25 ft. Maximum Pylon: ft. Monument: 8

150 ft.
Area ft. sq. less. Maximum whichever is Pylon: sq. Monument: 32 each.

1 street Number street per Maximum Pylon: per frontage Monument: 4 frontage (see Remarks for additional signs)

Style monument Sign
or
Pylon

Type
Sign of 1 ft. 300 public along of ft. sign, of allowed 1,000 location to matters. 500 allowed ft. or are sign customary on holiday indicating over are 200 over signs. and to minimum to official cards like Section and maintained a maintained Remarks with monument each frontage. with credit directions to pylon apply sign. frontage pylon offered; provided be merchandise, frontage for not limited 1 street; limitation shall street Centers Centers additional oriented f. street additional then additional g. of 1 that ft. between Area does noncommercial decoration pursuant 17.60.080(R). Copy prices, services services premises; honored; customers;
be be upon Section only. floor not not or see Location 17.60.050) sidewalk Restrictions Shall Shall (also Ground windows a. portable. b. placed maintained any area.
Allowed? Illumination Yes Yes

2nd 10
or
ft. Height less Maximum Below floor ft., whichever is 12

ft.
ft. Area sq. sq. Maximum 8 32 each
street Number per per Maximum 1 frontage 2 business

Style Sign freestanding)
or Window Readerboard/Menuboard (wall

Type
Sign to a
the is to to of to indirect name/ or for purpose only not be traffic store loading is lighting to rent direction prohibited. pennants the entrance. prohibited. the building is limited name. to advertising to that shall sale, for be are oriented pertain the pertain commercial copy Remarks internal be limited only public pedestrian shall of providing shall shall the not streamers, is in and of banners shall name public, Copy Sign Illumination backlit; Copy Copy commercial Use and Sign sidewalk perpendicular front. a. business/tenant b. entrance business’s a. or prohibited. b. the assist the advertising a. advertise lease of

ft. on
or 1 or each public on Section signs. to of being at by business loading be see be of only. rented Location 17.60.050) Restrictions Minimum Shall (also c. between Shall entrance(s) utilized during hours. Adjacent door entrance tenant. Wall a. premises sold, leased.
Allowed? Illumination Yes No Yes No

min.
ft. ft. Height ft. ft. Maximum 7 ground clearance 6 10 12

ft. ft. ft. ft. Area sq. sq. sq. sq. Maximum 6 2 each 10 32 Maximum Number per1 elevation per1 loading entrance per1 building per1 orsaleable leasable space door) or or Style wall (wall Sign Shingle Nameplate Wall Freestanding, window Signs ID on Type Estate Sign Building Temporary Real c. (multiple buildings site) d. i.

site upon site. sale, sales, is not been of on with or the as has type identify promoting (3)(b). does occupancy ownership activity. removed to removed to after to removed after project. services, building be occurring company be of be Remarks of consistent future of except under days logo. days include identification shall exchange limited limited limited business limitation use or shall 10 shall 10 or name may of Signs Copy Sign Copy Sign Copy Area business. b. within lease completed. a. construction and including b. within completion a. future zoning, and identification. b. occupancy a. merchandise, etc., Business prohibited permitted b. lines. be ft. be ft. set from on on Section floor be ft. be shall 10 be shall 10 see property property Location only. 17.60.050) 10 back

property Location only. 17.60.050) 10 back

property Location only. 17.60.050) 10 back back Restrictions Shall property Shall Sign Shall Sign (also b. back all a. premises. b. set from lines. a. premises. b. set from lines. Ground windows
Allowed? Illumination No No Yes

2nd 10
or
ft. ft. Height less. Maximum 12 12 Below floor ft., whichever is

of per Area ft.sq. ft.sq. Maximum 32 32 40% window area building elevation
street on 3
to Number per per Maximum 1 project facing street 1 frontage Allowed up building elevations

or
Style wall
Sign
Freestanding Freestanding, window Window

or
Type Use
Sign Construction Future Promotional ii. iii. Facility, Tenant iv.

the sales, limited of location is promoting customary 25% identification and activity. holiday to to of services, maintained Section Remarks apply to name/logo business limitation limited business area. (3)(b). not of maximum a Copy include under Areac. does noncommercial decorations pursuant 17.60.080(R). a. merchandise, etc., Business to banner

on
on- Section poles.
see allowed Location light 17.60.050) Restrictions (also Only permanent site
Allowed? Illumination Yes

the the pole. of Height Maximum Cannot extend above top light
wide tall
in. Area in.
96 Maximum 30 x (each)

light on (2 side to pole, Number per Maximum 4 pole each of back back)

Style 17.60.070(B). 17.60.070(C).
Sign banners Section Section
Pole See See
Event Type
Sign Special v. vi. Noncommercial

4. Signs permitted in the C-2 (regional commercial) and manufacturing (M-1, M-2, M-3) zone districts:

be sq. than are a well be 16 as shall of signs 17.60.070(F). greater business shall per exceed signs signs not building length linear such wall Section Remarks minimum signage business a shall the to wall of skyline other Each of Sign If all a. entitled ft. elevation. b. horizontal 70% frontage. c. proposed, as subject

not Section
of above see shall Location 17.60.050) Restrictions (also Signs project roofline building.
Allowed? Illumination Yes 17.60.060(B)(1). the per Note: signs 3
ft. Height building more Maximum Section 30 Wall may exceed height maximum if is than stories skyline sign standards.
to
per or ft., per or ft., foot foot
ft. is sq. ft. is sq. Area
sq. the less. sq. the Maximum pursuant Street elevations: 2 linear of business’s elevation sign located 250 whichever is Non-street elevations: 1 linear of business’s elevation sign located 125

all the
of not per standards limit; Number Maximum No total combined area signage shall exceed maximum area elevation. sign
residential Style
the
Sign to
Subject Wall

ID
Type
Sign Residential Business a. Uses b.

or signs if 1 either is sign of an for the shall of form shall not then to name to signs; only face a other identification does clearance name anyin pylon permitted. of on on maximum name center business sign 17.60.070(D) freeway- limited ground the a that a are sign. is on or the area center Remarks requirements the frontage. as being said the if sign. b. monument sign center of to business minimum allowed and

allowed and

allowed and Section or sign
a from street exceed the be item
If See Pylon Business provided Business ft. a. pylon however is monuments b. limited per c. have 8 bottom not height monument d. incorporates on-site variation, not per e. pylon proposed oriented

ft.
of
50 street Section part signs. from property outdoor from ft. see (not from Location 17.60.050) ft. ft. Restrictions Setbacks: Minimum 100 25 center). 0 (also a. - interior lines a - rights-of-way. b. between c. existing advertising structures.
Allowed? Illumination Yes
Height 35 ft. Maximum Pylon ft. Monument 8

250 ft.
Area ft. sq. less. Maximum whichever is Pylon: sq. Monument: 32 each.

if if

1 street Number street per Maximum Pylon: per frontage pylon; Monument: 4 frontage monument. (see Remarks for additional signs)

Style monument Sign
or
Pylon

Type
Sign of 1 that ft. 300 public along of ft. sign, of allowed 1,000 location to matters. 500 allowed ft. along or are sign customary on- official cards like holiday indicating over are 200 over signs. and to minimum to maintained Section and a maintained Remarks with monument each frontage with credit directions to pylon apply frontage pylon offered; provided be merchandise, frontage for not limited 1 street; limitation shall street Centers Centers additional f. street additional then additional street. g. of 1 that ft. between Area does noncommercial decorations pursuant 17.60.080(R). Copy prices, services services premises; honored; customers;
be be upon Section only. floor not not or see Location 17.60.050) sidewalk Restrictions Shall Shall (also Ground windows a. portable. b. placed maintained any area.
Allowed? Illumination Yes Yes

2nd 10
or
ft. Height less. Maximum Below floor ft., whichever is 12

ft.
ft. Area sq. sq. Maximum 8 32 each
street Number per per Maximum 1 frontage 2 business

Style Sign freestanding)
or Window Readerboard/Menuboard (wall

Type
Sign to as
the is to to if to indirect name/ for not traffic store be loading is lighting direction prohibited. proposed sign. entrance. the pennants prohibited. is to only building limited name. is to that shall 17.60.070(F) are oriented be pertain the commercial copy sign Remarks internal be limited only public pedestrian shall of providing shall streamers, is ID building in Section of banners shall name public, Copy Sign Illumination backlit; Copy See skyline Use and Sign sidewalk perpendicular front. a. business/tenant b. entrance business’s a. or prohibited. b. the assist the advertising c. building a

ft. on
1 or each public Section signs. to of at by business loading see be of only Location 17.60.050) Restrictions Minimum (also c. between Shall entrance(s) utilized during hours. Adjacent door entrance tenant. Wall
Allowed? Illumination Yes No Yes

min.
ft. Height ft. ft. Maximum 7 ground clearance. 6 10

ft.
ft. ft. Area sq. sq. sq. Maximum 6 2 each 10
Number per per per Maximum 1 elevation 1 loading entrance 2 building
door)
or
Style (wall
Sign
Shingle Nameplate Wall
Signs
ID on Type
Sign Building Temporary c. (multiple buildings site) d.

a of site upon site. sale, or sales, been of on with or purpose to the rent has type identify promoting the occupancy ownership activity. removed to removed to after to advertising removed after project. services, for building be pertain sale, occurring company be of be Remarks of consistent future the not days logo. days include shall shall of exchange limited limited limited business use or shall 10 shall 10 and or name may of Copy commercial Signs Copy Sign Copy Sign Copy a. advertise lease of business. b. within lease completed. a. construction and including b. within completion a. future zoning, and identification. b. occupancy a. merchandise, etc., or lines. be ft. be ft. on

Signs Copy Sign Copy Sign Copy a. advertise lease of business. b. within lease completed. a. construction and including b. within completion a. future zoning, and identification. b. occupancy a. merchandise, etc., or lines. be ft. be ft. on set from on on Section being floor be be ft. be shall 10 be shall 10 see property property rented 10 Location only. 17.60.050) back back Restrictions Shall Shall property Shall Sign Shall Sign (also a. premises sold, leased. b. back all a. premises b. set from lines. a. premises b. set from lines. Ground windows Allowed? Illumination No No No Yes

2nd 10
or
ft. ft. ft. Height Maximum 12 12 12 Below floor ft.,

2nd 10 or ft. ft. ft. Height Maximum 12 12 12 Below floor ft.,

of per Area ft.sq. ft.sq. ft.sq. Maximum 32 32 32 40% window area
or street on 3
to Number per per per Maximum 1 saleable leasable space 1 project facing street 1 frontage Allowed up

or or
Style wall wall
Sign
Freestanding, window Freestanding Freestanding, window Window

or
Use Type Estate
Sign Future Promotional Real Construction i. ii. iii. Facility, Tenant iv.

the is not sales, limited of and location permitted under is may promoting customary 25% as does identification and multiple activity. holiday to to of prohibited. hulas, services, or maintained Section is except Remarks identification permitted apply to name/logo limited limitation business as limitation business area. copy single metallic (4)(b). not of maximum or Area Area Copy a Business prohibited under b. include except (4)(b). c. does noncommercial decorations pursuant 17.60.080(R). a. merchandise, etc., Business to banner Text Pennants/streamers include colors, flags.

on of
on-
for Section poles. be around sales. see allowed Location light only perimeter area 17.60.050) Restrictions (also Only permanent site May placed the the approved outdoor
Allowed? Illumination Yes No

or
a the the pole. the of the pole. of of Height less Maximum whichever is Cannot extend above top light Cannot extend above roof building top light

tall a of wide
in. Area in. in.
96 Maximum building elevation 30 x (each) Each strand cannot exceed height 18

light on (2 side pole, Number per strands Maximum building elevations 4 pole each of back-to- back) 2

Style
Sign banners Pole Pennants/streamers

Type
Sign

Remarks

Section
see Location 17.60.050) Restrictions (also
Allowed? Illumination
Height Maximum

Area Maximum
Number Maximum

Style 17.60.070(B). 17.60.070(C). 17.60.070(E).
Sign Section Section Section
See See See
Event Type
Sign Special Outdoor v. vi. Noncommercial e. Advertising (billboard)

5. Signs permitted in the C-B (central business) and C-C (commercial center) zone districts shall be subject
to the C-2 sign standards pursuant to subsection (B)(4) of this section.

6. Signs permitted where there are overlay or combination zones (P, CH, HOSP, AD, AA, FP-S, SC, PE) shall
be subject to the sign standards of the underlying zone district unless otherwise permitted as follows:

a. Signs within the FP-S (floodplain secondary) zone where it is not used as an overlay or combining zone shall be subject to the residential sign standards pursuant to subsection (B)(1) of this section.

b. Signs within the P (automobile parking) zone where it is not used as an overlay or combining zone
shall be subject to the same standards which are applicable to the adjacent zone where the parking use
is incidental to and intended to serve the use in such adjacent zone.

c. Religious Institutions. In addition to that permitted by the residential sign standards pursuant to
subsection (B)(1) of this section, shall be allowed one illuminated or nonilluminated monument sign for
each street frontage not to exceed an area of thirty-two square feet and a height of eight feet; and one
nonilluminated wall sign for each street frontage not to exceed an area of thirty-two square feet and a
height of twenty feet. Monument signs shall be set back twenty-five feet from all adjacent property lines.
There shall be no setback of any sign from property lines fronting a public street.

d. Within the HOSP (hospital) zone, hospitals, sanitariums, rest homes, convalescent homes, maternity
homes and homes for the aged shall, in addition to that permitted by the residential sign standards
pursuant to subsection (B)(1) of this section, be allowed one illuminated or nonilluminated monument
sign for each street frontage not to exceed an area of thirty-two square feet and a height of eight feet;
and one illuminated or nonilluminated wall sign for each street frontage not to exceed an area of thirty-
two square feet and a height of twenty feet. Monument signs shall be set back twenty-five feet from all
adjacent property lines. There shall be no setback of any sign from property lines fronting a public street.

7. Signs permitted in the PUD (planned unit development) and PCD (planned commercial development)
zone districts:

a. Residential development shall be subject to the residential sign standards pursuant to subsection
(B)(1) of this section unless otherwise conditioned by the planning commission or city council.

b. Commercial development shall be subject to the C-1 sign standards pursuant to subsection (B)(3) of
this section unless otherwise conditioned by the planning commission or city council.

c. When a PCD or PUD zone is used as a combining zone, the sign regulations for the base zone shall
apply unless otherwise conditioned by the planning commission or city council.

8. Signs permitted in the Bakersfield auto mall area shall be permitted as follows regardless of the
underlying zone district:

(a map delineating the area these regulations apply to is shown at the end of this chapter)

be 1 is sq. than are on a well either are be 50 as shall to 2nd name of signs signs; no greater business is shall per exceed signs signs provided limited is center not or monuments is building center such wall length linear Remarks there Section minimum signage if monument a to business the shall then or and other wall of skyline Each of Sign If all Business Business a. entitled ft. elevation. b. horizontal 70% frontage. c. proposed, as subject 17.60.070(F). a. pylon however identification pylon pylon, permitted. b. the of ft. 50 the street Section not part of property above from see from shall Location ft. 17.60.050)

from shall Location ft. 17.60.050)

from shall Location ft. 17.60.050) ft. Restrictions Minimum Setbacks: (not center). 25 0 (also Sign project roofline building. a. - interior lines a - rights-of-way. b.
Allowed? Illumination Yes Yes 17.60.060(B)(1). 50 Wall may the per sign
or ft. Height building 3 ft. Maximum Section 30 Note: signs exceed height maximum if is more stories skyline standards. Pylon: ft. Monument: 8
to 2
per foot or ft., 300 ft.
is sq. Area ft. ft. sq. the less. Maximum pursuant Each building elevation: sq. linear of business’s elevation sign located 450 whichever is Pylon: sq. Monument: 32 each.

all the
2 street of not per standards limit; Number street per Maximum No total combined area signage shall exceed maximum area elevation. Pylon: per frontage Monument: 4 frontage (see sign
residential Style
the monument Sign to
or
Subject Wall Pylon

ID
Type
Sign Residential Business a. Uses b.

1 of for of sign an that 1 the shall of form other not if ft. sign, of ft. along only to face a any on 500 allowed does clearance name in business of on 200 are maximum name over freeway- b. sign 17.60.070(D) ground the a that said allowed the area sign. requirements Remarks monument the each frontage as with being frontage. the item be sign. sign center of to business minimum for and Section sign frontage a not per 1 street from exceed the variation, See Centers Pylon ft. If limited per c. have 8 bottom not height monument d. incorporates on-site or shall signs e. pylon proposed oriented f. street additional then additional street. Section signs. from outdoor see ft. Location 17.60.050) Restrictions 100 (also between c. existing advertising structures. Allowed? Illumination

Height Maximum

Area Maximum
Number Maximum Remarks for additional signs)

Style
Sign

Type
Sign the
to
for not traffic store matters. location loading is pennants on customary entrance. the to cards to or public limited name. like holiday indicating to and to prohibited. that oriented be maintained Section to and is Remarks limited only public credit directions be pedestrian apply to official provided shall merchandise streamers, is limitation not limited of banner shall Copy Sign Area does noncommercial decorations pursuant 17.60.080(R). Copy prices, services; services premises; honored; customers; Use and Sign sidewalk perpendicular front. a. business/tenant b. entrance business’s

Copy Sign Area does noncommercial decorations pursuant 17.60.080(R). Copy prices, services; services premises; honored; customers; Use and Sign sidewalk perpendicular front. a. business/tenant b. entrance business’s

1 each or be be upon public
of Section only. ft. on to signs. floor not not or at by business loading see be of Location 17.60.050) sidewalk Restrictions Shall Shall Minimum (also Ground windows a. portable. b. placed maintained any area. c. between Shall entrance(s) utilized during hours. Adjacent door entrance tenant.
Allowed? Illumination Yes Yes Yes No

2nd 10
or min.
ft. Height less. ft. ft. Maximum Below floor ft., whichever is 12 7 ground clearance 6

ft.
ft. ft. ft. Area sq. sq. sq. sq. Maximum 8 32 each 6 2 each
street Number per per per per Maximum 1 frontage 2 business 1 elevation 1 loading entrance
door)
or
Style (wall Sign freestanding)
or Window Readerboard/Menuboard (wall Shingle Nameplate

Type
Sign to as or site is to to if sale, indirect name/ been of on only to renting the be the has type lighting direction prohibited. proposed sign. building is removed is sale, for business. after to shall 17.60.070(F) a be occurring company pertain the pertain the not of commercial commercial copy sign of Remarks internal days logo. of ID building shall shall of providing shall exchange limited and
name name public, Signs Copy Illumination backlit; Copy in Section 10 or See skyline Copy a. or prohibited. b. the assist the advertising c. building a a. advertising leasing purpose advertising b. within lease completed. a. construction and including
or lines. be ft. on set from on Section being
be be ft. be shall 10 see only. rented 10 Location 17.60.050) back Restrictions Shall Shall property Shall Sign (also Wall a. premises sold, leased. b. back all a. premises. b. set
Allowed? Illumination Yes No No

ft. ft. ft. Height Maximum 10 12 12

Area ft.sq. ft.sq. ft.sq. Maximum 10 32 32
Maximum Number per2 building per1 orsaleable leaseable space per1 project facing street

or
Style wall
Sign
Wall Freestanding, window Freestanding
Signs
ID on Type Estate
Sign Building Temporary Real Construction c. (multiple buildings site) d. i. ii.

upon site. sales, is not location with or under as identify promoting customary (8)(b). does identification and occupancy ownership activity. holiday removed to removed to to after project. services, building maintained be be of of Remarks consistent future days identification except under permitted apply include limited limited business limitation business as limitation use or shall shall 10 may of not Sign Copy Sign Copy Area Area b. within completion a. future zoning, and identification. b. occupancy a. merchandise, etc., Business prohibited permitted b. include except (8)(b). c. does noncommercial decorations

be ft. on Section only. 10 property floor property be shall see all all Location 17.60.050) back Restrictions Shall Sign (also from lines. a. premises. b. set from lines. Ground windows
Allowed? Illumination No Yes

2nd 10
or
ft. Height less Maximum 12 Below floor ft., whichever is

of per Area ft.sq. Maximum 32 40% window area building elevation
street on 3
to Number per Maximum 1 frontage Allowed up building elevations

or
Style wall
Sign
Freestanding, window Window

or
Type Use Sign Future Promotional iii. Facility, Tenant iv.

the sales, limited of and is may promoting 25% activity. multiple to of prohibited. hulas, services, or is Remarks Section to name/logo limited business area. copy single metallic of maximum or Copy a pursuant 17.60.080(R). a. merchandise, etc., Business to banner Text Pennants/streamers include colors, flags.

on of
on-
for Section poles. be around sales. see allowed Location light only perimeter area 17.60.050) Restrictions (also Only permanent site May placed the the approved outdoor
Allowed? Illumination Yes No

or
a the the pole. the of the pole. of of Height Maximum Cannot extend above top light Cannot extend above roof building top light

tall a of wide
in. Area in. in.
96 Maximum 30 x (each) Each strand cannot exceed height 18

light on (2 side pole, Number per strands Maximum 4 pole each of back-to- back) 2

Style 17.60.070(B). 17.60.070(C). 17.60.070(E).
Sign banners Section Section Section Pole Pennants/streamers See See See
Event Type
Sign Special Outdoor v. vi. Noncommercial e. Advertising (billboard)

(Ord. 5172 § 1, 2024; Ord. 4953 § 3, 2018; Ord. 4938 § 5, 2018; Ord. 4729 §§ 4—8, 2013; Ord. 4715 § 1, 2012; Ord. 4658 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4605 § 1, 2009; Ord. 4543 § 2, 2008; Ord. 4489 §§ 5, 6, 2008; Ord. 4384 § 1, 2006; Ord. 4306 § 1, 2006; Ord. 3964 § 45, 2000; Ord. 3870 §§ 4, 5, 1998; Ord. 3755 § 2, 1997; Ord. 3624 § 1, 1995; Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

A. Off-Site Residential Subdivision/Project Directional Kiosk Sign Program. The following is intended to provide for the administration of a uniform, coordinated sign program of kiosks that offer developers of new residential subdivisions means of providing direction to their projects. The kiosk signs will minimize confusion among prospective purchasers of new homes to find those developments, promote traffic safety by removing competing signs from busy streets, and reduce visual blight of incompatible sign types in residential neighborhoods. No such off-site directional sign other than those in conformance with this chapter shall be erected or maintained within the city.

1. Requirements for Directional Kiosks.

a. Kiosks shall be permitted in all zone districts except on a lot developed with a single-unit residence.
They may be permitted on private land or public right-of-way that is maintained by the property owner
provided the property owner’s permission has been granted in writing. Signs may also be permitted
within the public right-of-way or parkway that is maintained by the city of Bakersfield or as contracted by
the city subject to approval and issuance of an encroachment permit by the city. All other location
restrictions in Section 17.60.050 shall remain in full force and effect.

b. Kiosks shall be constructed of wood or similar product with individual panels provided for
placement of subdivision or project names and direction.

c. Kiosk locations shall be approved by the building director or appointed designee. A kiosk shall not
be placed closer than one thousand feet from an existing kiosk or approved site where a kiosk is to be
constructed. The building director or appointed designee may reduce the distance between kiosks
where:

i. Kiosks are located at different corners of an intersection and face different directions.

ii. The street intersection where the kiosk is proposed is less than one thousand feet away from a
street intersection that contains a kiosk and it is necessary to provide direction to subdivisions or
projects to which that street provides the most direct or only access.

iii. Kiosks (two maximum) are necessary to be placed adjacent to one another because the
number of subdivisions or projects that are being identified exceeds the number of panels allowed
on one kiosk.

d. Architectural design, color, letter style, and any other design elements of the kiosk shall be approved by the planning commission and city council. All kiosks and other off-site residential directional signs allowed by Section 17.60.060(B)(1)(d)(ii) that are installed within the city limits shall be in accordance with adopted design criteria.

e. Kiosks shall not exceed a height of twelve feet and a width of six feet. When a kiosk is sited
immediately adjacent to a residential development, it shall not exceed a height of eight feet. An
individual panel shall be limited to a maximum width of six feet and a height of ten inches. No more than
eight individual name panels shall be permitted on a kiosk.

f. Kiosks may have more than one face. Multiple faces are encouraged where the kiosk can be sited to
serve traffic traveling in opposite directions, or where it would reduce the amount of kiosks needed to
provide adequate direction to residential subdivisions. Multiple faced kiosks shall be approved by the
building director or appointed designee.

g. A name panel shall be limited to a single line of text that may contain only the subdivision, project,
builder or developer’s name, or combination thereof. All panels shall include a direction arrow pointing
in the direction of the identified project. Name panels shall conform to all design elements as approved
in accordance with subsection (A)(1)(d) of this section.

h. Tag signs, streamers, banners, balloons, devices, display boards, or other appurtenances shall not
be added, placed upon or erected adjacent to or within a one-hundred-foot radius of any existing kiosk.

i. Kiosks shall not be illuminated.

j. Kiosks shall not obstruct the use of sidewalks, walkways, bicycle or hiking trails, and shall not
obstruct the free and clear vision of motor vehicle operators, cyclists, pedestrians, or visibility of traffic
control signs and lights as determined by the public works director or appointed designee.

k. Kiosks shall be set back a minimum of twenty-five feet from side and rear property lines. No setback
shall be required from street frontages or those kiosks located within public rights-of-way.

2. Permits.

a. Any builder or developer of a new recorded residential subdivision which contains approved lots or
homes which have never been sold, may apply for a permit to install a kiosk or to place a name panel on
an existing kiosk to provide direction to their subdivision.

b. Applications for a kiosk or name panel (including name changes to an existing name panel) shall be
made on forms provided by the building director or appointed designee, be signed under penalty of
perjury by the applicant, and shall require, at minimum, the following information:

i. The name, mailing address, title, telephone number of the property owner, subdivider and developer/builder of the specific development;

ii. The name and location of the specific development;

iii. A plot plan showing the exact location of the proposed kiosk, or the existing kiosk(s) where the
panel(s) will be attached;

iv. A statement that the development contains approved lots or new homes which have not yet
been sold;

v. If the permit is for a new name panel or a name change to an existing name panel, the copy
proposed for the panel;

vi. If the permit is for a new kiosk that is proposed to be located within a public road right-of-way,
a copy of the approved encroachment permit issued by the city of Bakersfield public works
department.

c. The building director or appointed designee may issue a permit if:

i. The application is complete and truthful;

ii. The applicant is the permit or entity selling new lots or new homes;

iii. The development is located entirely within the Metropolitan Bakersfield 2010 General Plan
area;

iv. The kiosk or panel meets all of the design criteria within this section;

v. The permit is for a name panel and available space exists on the kiosk(s); or if there is no space
available, the applicant has agreed to be placed on a waiting list for future placement on a kiosk(s);

vi. If the permit is for a kiosk, the location criteria in this section has been satisfied;

vii. Appropriate fees have been paid.

3. Program Administration.

a. The city may delegate portions of or the entire administration of the directional kiosk program to
another entity by contract that includes, but is not limited to, installation and maintenance of kiosks, and
issuance of permits for kiosks and name panels.

b. Kiosks and sign panels permitted in accordance with this section shall be continuously maintained
in good condition by the permit holder. Upon approval by the city, sign maintenance may be assumed by
a responsible party other than the permit holder.

c. Kiosks shall be sited based on demand and where they will provide the best direction to residential
subdivisions where homes/lots are being sold.

d. Sign panels shall be available to all developments selling new homes on a first-come first-served
basis. Sign panels shall be placed on a kiosk beginning with the highest position on the kiosk and progressing downward. Panels shall be grouped based on the direction of travel with the priority of
placement from top to bottom as follows:

i. Left turn;

ii. Right turn;

iii. Straight ahead.

e. Waiting lists shall be established for each kiosk (existing or proposed) for new name panels on a
first-come first-served basis of applications that have met the requirements of subsection (A)(2)(c) of this
section.

f. When a panel name is changed or a panel is removed from a kiosk, all lower panels within each
directional group as defined in subsection (A)(3)(d) of this section shall be moved upwards so that any
new panel is placed on the bottom of its respective directional group on the kiosk.

g. All panel changes shall be approved by the building director or appointed designee through the
permit process.

h. A specific project or builder is limited to one panel for each kiosk. Multiple panels shall not be
combined to identify or provide information regarding the same specific project or builder. There shall
be no limit on the number of kiosks on which a specific project may be identified.

i. Within ten days after selling the last lot or home or within two years after recordation of the final
map for the subdivision of which the project is located, whichever occurs first, panel signs that identify
said project shall be removed from all kiosks. Two extensions of time may be granted by the
administrator of the kiosk program not to exceed one year for each request if the extension is needed to
complete any sales in that project. If administration of the program is delegated to an entity other than
the city and that entity denies the extension, the permit holder may appeal the denial within five days of
the decision in writing to the building director. The building director shall render a decision on the appeal
within ten days of receiving the appeal which shall be final and conclusive.

j. Any kiosk shall be completely removed by the permittee whenever any of the following occur:

i. The kiosk is no longer needed at the location;

ii. The permittee has been notified by the city of Bakersfield public works department to remove
or relocate the kiosk on the basis of public safety or necessity, or because of planned road
improvements.

k. For any kiosk erected within the public road right-of-way, a performance bond in an amount
sufficient to remove the structure shall be approved by and posted with the city of Bakersfield public
works department.

4. Violations and Abatement.

a. Off-site residential subdivision/project directional signs that were legally permitted as of June 1,
1997, shall continue to remain for a period of six months from said date. After that time, signs not in
conformance with this section shall be removed by the owner at the owner’s cost. Any signs not removed
within the required period shall be subject to summary abatement by the city in accordance with Section
17.60.110. This subsection shall not apply to existing kiosk programs that were legally established and
maintained by a private entity where that program contains five or more kiosks.

b. Existing kiosk sign programs that were legally established as of June 1, 1997, that are owned and
maintained by a private entity where that program contains five or more kiosks, may continue as a
nonconforming kiosk program. These kiosks may be maintained but shall not be replaced except with a
kiosk that conforms to this section. A nonconforming kiosk shall be removed if it is no longer necessary
at the location, or no longer meets the separation requirements of subsection (A)(1)(c) of this section
regarding kiosk separation due to placement of a conforming kiosk. A nonconforming kiosk that is
required to be removed shall be done by the owner at the owner’s cost. Any nonconforming kiosk not
removed as required, shall be subject to summary abatement by the city in accordance with Section
17.60.110.

c. Any permit issued in accordance with this section shall be immediately revoked by the building
director if it has been found that the permit holder has erected and maintained any sign in violation of
this section. The building director shall order any panel currently in place on a kiosk identifying the
builder’s/developer’s specific development to be removed immediately after the appeal period has
expired if no appeal has been filed, and that builder/developer shall be prohibited from having any off-
site directional signs or name panels on any kiosk for that specific development for a period of one
hundred eighty days. After the one-hundred-eighty-day period, the builder/developer may be allowed
kiosk panels but they shall be placed at the bottom of any waiting list and/or kiosk hierarchy as
described in subsections (A)(3)(d) through (A)(3)(f) of this section.

d. Any order of the building director shall be made in writing, addressed to the permit holder, and
shall set forth the findings for revoking any permits and the method to appeal the decision. If no appeal
is filed, the decision of the building director shall be final and conclusive.

e. If the city is not the administrator of the kiosk program, the administrator shall immediately notify the building director regarding any violations in accordance with subsection (A)(4)(c) of this section and the building director shall notify the party in violation in accordance with subsection (A)(4)(d) of this section.

5. Appeal.

a. Should any permit holder be dissatisfied with the decision of the building director to revoke a
permit, then the permit holder may, no later than ten days after notice of such decision was deposited in
the United States mail, make written objection, subject to the required appeal fee, to the board of
building appeals in care of the building director, setting forth the grounds for dissatisfaction. The board
of building appeals shall hear the objections at a regular meeting no later than thirty days following the
filing of the objection. The permit holder shall be given written notice of the hearing no later than three days prior to the hearing. The building board of appeals may sustain, suspend, or overrule the decision
of the building director, which decision shall be final and conclusive.

b. Pending hearing before the building board of appeals, all signs, kiosks and/or name panels in
dispute may remain in place until a final decision rendered.

B. Special Event Signs. Special event signs may be approved by the building director as a means of publicizing events such as grand openings, carnivals, parades, charitable events, community holiday activities, and other such events. This section does not include events promoted by the city of Bakersfield pursuant to Section 17.60.080(O). Special event signs shall be limited to the following provisions:

1. Signs shall be limited for each business to sixty days a calendar year. This time may be utilized in any
combination of durations; however, the number of special events shall not exceed eight a calendar year, and
no single event shall exceed a duration of fifteen consecutive days.

2. Balloons and inflated devices provided they do not exceed a height of one hundred feet, search lights,
beacons, pennants, flags, banners and streamers may be allowed subject to approval by the building director.
Flags for model homes/tract sales offices are not subject to this subsection.

3. Copy on a banner or balloon shall not exceed an area of one hundred square feet, and may include the
name, symbol or logo of the business or sponsor, but in no event shall such name or logo exceed one-quarter
of the total permitted copy area.

4. Signs may be illuminated and contain movement upon approval by the building director provided they
do not adversely affect neighboring properties or motorists.

C. Noncommercial Signs. Signs expressing political, social, religious or other noncommercial message. These signs are subject to the following regulations:

1. Signs shall not be placed on private property without the consent of the property owner. No such sign,
either freestanding or posted on any object, shall be placed or erected on public property, within the public
right-of-way, or any maintained parkway/landscape area.

2. Signs shall not exceed an area of eight square feet and a height of six feet.

3. Signs shall not be illuminated.

4. In residential districts, each parcel of property may display one sign in compliance with this chapter.
However, during the period of time beginning ninety days before a general, special, primary, or runoff
election, and ending ten days after such election, each property may display two signs in compliance with this
chapter.

5. In the commercial, industrial, and agricultural districts, each parcel of property or commercial center may
display one sign in compliance with this chapter. However, during the period of time beginning ninety days
before a general, special, primary, or runoff election, and ending ten days after such election, each property may display four signs in compliance with this chapter, except that signs may be up to an area of thirty-two
square feet and a height of eight feet.

6. Signs may only be displayed for ninety days and must be removed for at least thirty days before being
displayed again.

7. Signs shall not block line of sight for intersections, driveways/entrances, sidewalks and multi-use paths.

D. Freeway-Oriented Signs. Freeway-oriented signs identify premises where food, lodging and places of business engage in supplying goods and services essential to the normal operation of motor vehicles, and which are directly dependent upon an adjacent freeway. These signs shall be subject to the following regulations:

1. Signs shall be within the C-1, C-2, C-C, PCD, M-1, M-2 or M-3 zone districts; and shall also be within one of
the rectangular areas two thousand feet in width and three thousand feet in length, the center of which is
concentric with the intersection point between the centerline of the freeway and accessible surface street,
said intersections identified as follows:

a. State Highway 99 and Olive Drive;

b. State Highway 99 and Airport Drive, except that said rectangular area shall extend south to Gilmore
Avenue;

c. State Highway 99 and State Highways 58/178 (Rosedale Highway/24th Street), except that said
rectangular area shall extend north to Gilmore Avenue;

d. State Highway 99 and California Avenue;

e. State Highway 99 and Ming Avenue;

f. State Highway 99 and White Lane;

g. State Highway 99 and Panama Lane;

h. State Highway 99 and Hosking Avenue;

i. State Highway 99 and State Highway 119 (Taft Highway).

(Note: Refer to the maps at the end of this chapter.)

2. Only one of the allowable on-site pylon signs permitted in the zone districts specified in this section shall
be allowed to exceed both the area and height limitations imposed by the particular zone district provided no
such sign exceeds an area of three hundred fifty square feet and a height of seventy-five feet. All other sign
regulations of the particular zone district shall apply to this sign and the specific business.

3. The building director shall determine if the location of the business and the service offered satisfy the
criteria and intent of this section and the definition of a freeway-oriented sign.

E. Outdoor Advertising Signs (Billboards). All outdoor advertising signs are regulated as follows:

1. Signs are permitted in the C-2, M-1, M-2 and M-3 zone districts, in addition to that permitted in those
respective districts.

2. Signs shall not exceed an area of three hundred square feet, excluding cutouts or extensions provided
they do not exceed thirty square feet in area.

3. Signs shall not exceed a height of thirty-five feet in the C-2 district, or fifty feet in the M-1, M-2 and M-3
districts.

4. Signs shall not be located less than one thousand feet from another such sign, or one hundred feet from
any other freestanding sign.

5. Signs shall not be located in nor project over public property or public right-of-way.

6. Multifaced signs are allowed, provided the faces are placed back-to-back, are no more than two feet
apart, and are equal in size and configuration.

7. Signs shall be set back a minimum of three hundred feet from any property zoned residential or
developed with residential uses.

8. Signs shall not project over or be placed upon any building or structure.

9. Signs shall be set back twenty-five feet from adjacent property lines except those fronting public streets
where no setback is required.

10. Signs may be illuminated provided no lighting is directed onto adjacent properties or public rights-of-
way.

11. Electronic message displays as defined in Section 17.04.547 are permitted.

F. Skyline Building Signs. Wall signs for a building that is three or more stories may be permitted that exceed the height limits delineated by the zone district in which it is located, to provide long distance visual identification of a building or its primary tenant, subject to the following regulations:

1. Signs are permitted in the C-O, C-1, C-2, C-C, C-B, PCD, M-1, M-2, and M-3 zone districts.

2. Signs may be installed on all elevations of the building.

3. Signs shall be located on the top story or between the top story and the top of the building.

4. Signs shall be comprised solely of individual letters or logos installed a minimum of three inches and a maximum of twelve inches from the surface of the wall on which they are located. Illumination may be provided by indirect reverse lighting or internal illumination as approved by the building director. Floodlighting shall be prohibited.

   5. Signs shall not have a horizontal dimension exceeding one hundred feet or seventy percent of the horizontal dimension of the building elevation where the sign is placed, whichever is less.

   6. The property owner shall designate in writing or on the sign plan the primary tenant of the building if such tenant is to be identified by the sign.

   7. Signs shall not have letters exceeding the following heights:

      Maximum
      Building Capital Letter 3 Logo Height 1 Letter2 Height (inches)
      (feet) (inches)
      (inches)

      35—59 24 36 48

      60—69 36 54 72

      70—79 48 72 96

      80—89 60 90 120

      90—99 72 108 144

      100—119 84 126 168

      120 or 96 144 192
      more

1 Letter height is if all letters used are capital letters.

2 Maximum height of a capital letter (one and one-half times maximum height) if used in conjunction with
lower case letters. Lower case shall not exceed maximum height.

3 Maximum height of a logo (two times maximum height).

8. All signs shall be limited to two lines of letters and/or logo.

9. Pylon signs shall not be permitted on the site if skyline signs are utilized; only monument signs in this
instance would be permitted subject to the regulations of the zone district in which they are located.

10. All other wall signs permitted by this chapter which are placed on a building with a skyline sign pursuant
to this section shall not exceed sixty percent of the area which would otherwise be allowed in the particular
zone district, a height of twenty feet from grade, and letters that are taller than the skyline letters.

11. Comprehensive sign plans may permit skyline signs to be more or less restrictive than the requirements
of this section.

G. Electronic Message Displays.

1. Only retail development exceeding fifty thousand square feet, or shopping centers encompassing five acres or more, are permitted use of an electronic message display on a pylon sign.

   2. Only one of the allowed pylon signs permitted along a street frontage may include an electronic display.

   3. If a pylon sign contains an electronic message display and monument signs are also permitted for the

   center, only one of the allowed monument signs along a street frontage may contain an electronic message display. If a pylon sign does not contain an electronic message display and monument signs are permitted for the center, only two of the allowed monument signs along a street frontage may contain an electronic message display.

   4. Pylon signs that contain an electronic message display shall be set back a minimum of one hundred fifty feet from any R, PUD, or OS zone, and fifty feet from any interior property line not within that center.

   5. Electronic message displays are not permitted on pylon signs located on properties that do not contain retail development exceeding fifty thousand square feet or are shopping centers less than five acres as noted in subsection (G)(1) of this section. However, one of the allowed monument signs along each street frontage is permitted to contain an electronic message display.

   6. Electronic message displays shall not be permitted on building walls or in windows.

   7. All other sign regulations that pertain to the particular zone district and specific business shall apply.

   8. Outdoor advertising signs (billboards) may contain electronic message displays subject to the regulations in subsection E of this section.

H. Projecting Business Identification Signs.

1. Projecting business identification signs are only permitted within the following areas:

a. Central district area as defined in Section 10.08.020(A), except that projecting signs shall not be
permitted along the street frontages of State Route 178, State Route 204, and any street south of the
Burlington Northern/Santa Fe Railroad. Where the central district boundary follows a street, permitted
projecting signs shall be allowed for business frontages along both sides of that street.

b. Baker Street Frontage Between Truxtun Avenue and Monterey Street. Projecting signs are also permitted
along the frontages of the intersecting streets and alleys with Baker Street one block in either direction,
except that projecting signs shall not be permitted along the street frontages of Truxtun Avenue and
Monterey Street.

2. In addition to other signs as allowed by this chapter, one projecting sign is permitted for a ground floor business along each street it fronts. A second floor or basement business may have a projecting sign only if it has its own dedicated public street entrance and the sign is located above or within five feet of that entrance.

   3. A sign shall not project more than five feet beyond its supporting building. Within an alley where vehicles will pass underneath a sign, that sign shall not project more than three feet beyond its supporting building. An encroachment permit from the city is required for any signs that project into the public right-of-way.

   4. A sign shall not be placed higher than fifteen feet on a building wall or above the first floor of a multiple story building. Within an alley where vehicles will pass underneath a sign, that sign shall not be placed higher than twenty feet above the alley surface.

   5. A sign shall not exceed an area of sixteen square feet.

   6. A sign shall not be closer than ten feet to another projecting sign or to a freestanding sign, or five feet from an interior property line or line dividing two separate business frontages. A sign shall be at least two feet from the face of the street curb.

   7. A sign shall not be less than eight feet above the surface over which it projects. Within an alley where vehicles will pass underneath a sign, that sign shall not be less than fifteen feet above the alley surface.

   8. A sign shall not exceed a maximum thickness of twelve inches.

   9. Internally illuminated signs shall have opaque face panels so that only the letters, logos, numbers, and/ or symbols appear illuminated at night; use of bulbs or neon for such lettering and symbols is allowed subject to the provisions of this chapter. Electronic message displays and flashing signs are prohibited.

   10. A sign shall not project above the roof or an apparent eave or parapet, including the eave of a simulated hipped or mansard roof. A sign shall not be attached to the sloping face of mansard overhangs or other architectural features intended to resemble or imitate roof structures.

   11. A two-dimensional fabric banner suspended perpendicular to a wall may be displayed in lieu of a projecting sign provided the banner is anchored to not hang freely and meets all of the requirements of this subsection for a projecting sign.

   12. Businesses that occupy a space with public access from only an alley or courtyard may share one directory sign as defined by this code along each public street to direct pedestrians to those businesses. A directory sign shall not exceed a maximum height of eight feet or an area of six square feet; only indirect external illumination is allowed.

3. A single vertical projecting sign may be installed along each street frontage on a building that is three or more stories tall that identifies the building name or use, or that of a major tenant. The sign is subject to all provisions of this subsection except that there is no minimum sign area; it must be mounted at the second floor or higher, and is limited to a single line of text. (Ord. 5172 § 1, 2024; Ord. 5095 § 1, 2022; Ord. 5006 § 4, 2020; Ord. 4953 § 4, 2018; Ord. 4829 § 1, 2015; Ord. 4729 §§ 1, 9, 10, 2013; Ord. 4659 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4605 § 2, 2009; Ord. 4489 §§ 7—9, 2008; Ord. 3964 § 46, 2000; Ord. 3870 §§ 6, 7, 1998; Ord. 3835 § 36, 1998; Ord. 3755 § 3, 1997; Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

The following signs shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter:

A. Address signs used for dwelling unit identification as required by Chapters 15.42 and 15.52 of this code.

B. Advertising signs that are in or on public buses or other public conveyances which may be permitted by the city council.

C. Business or merchant directory provided it does not exceed an area of sixteen square feet and a height of six feet.

D. Commercial vehicle signs on licensed commercial vehicles; provided, however, that such vehicles shall not be utilized as parked or stationary outdoor display signs.

E. Directional, warning or information signs, including traffic control and street signs, as authorized by federal, state or municipal authority.

F. Directional or informational signs such as entrance/exit signs, open/closed signs, signs indicating business hours, and similar such signs, provided they contain no commercial advertisement, and not exceed six square feet in area and six feet in height. Business logo is permitted provided it does not exceed twenty-five percent of each total sign area. The building director shall limit the number of such signs on the site based on actual need in order to provide adequate direction or information.

G. Flags of the United States, the state of California and other states of the nation, counties, municipalities, foreign nations, and national/international recognized nonprofit organizations. A site is limited to a total of three flags with no duplication of flags. The building director may approve additional flags if warranted by the type of business or proposal on the site.

H. Holiday decorations, in season, displayed for an aggregate period not to exceed ninety days per calendar year.

I. Interior signs within a public or private structure, including a stadium, ball park or other similar private or public recreational use, not intended to be seen from a public street or adjacent properties.

J. Memorial plaque, table, cornerstone or tombstone.

K. Neighborhood watch and similar type notices.

L. Notices posted on public bulletin boards or public kiosks designed for such notices.

M. No trespassing, solicitation, hunting, minors, and similar such signs, provided they do not exceed four square feet in area and six feet in height.

N. Official and legal notices issued by a court, or governmental agency.

O. Promotional signs by the city of Bakersfield that promote or advertise city-wide celebrations, awards, recognition, or other events. Such signs may be permitted within or project over public right-of-way.

P. Public utility signs placed by public utilities for the safety, welfare or convenience of the public, such as signs identifying high voltage, public telephone or underground cable.

Q. Signs being manufactured, transported and/or stored within the city limits; provided, however, that such signs are not used, in any manner or form, for purposes of advertising at the place or places of manufacture or storage.

R. Taxicab signs as authorized and approved as to size, form and contents by the city manager under Section 5.50.100. (Ord. 4953 § 5, 2018; Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

The following signs are specifically prohibited:

A. Animated, moving, revolving and rotating signs, except as specified in this chapter.

B. Banners, flags, pennants and balloons, except as specified in this chapter.

C. Bench signs.

D. Electronic message displays, except as specified in this chapter.

E. Flashing, blinking, and reflecting signs, except as specified in this chapter.

F. Outdoor advertising signs, except as specified in this chapter.

G. Permanent “for sale” signs.

H. Portable signs including A-frame signs, except as specified in this chapter.

I. Projecting signs, except as specified in this chapter.

J. Roof signs.

K. Signs which simulate in color or design a traffic sign or signal, or which make use of words, symbols or characters in such a manner to interfere with, mislead, or confuse pedestrian or vehicular traffic, as determined by the building director.

L. Vehicle Signs. Vehicles including trailers, wagons and similar utility vehicles, shall not be utilized as support for any mobile, portable or stationary signs, or conspicuously parked or left standing so as to constitute a device or sign. There shall not be maintained on any vehicle or trailer parked in a public right-of-way, or on public or private property so as to be visible from a public right-of-way, which is attached to, located on or leaning against such vehicle or trailer, any sign for the purpose of providing advertisement of a business, service or products, directing people to a business activity located on the same or other property for any purpose. This prohibition shall not apply to standard advertising or identification practices where such signs or advertising devices are painted on or permanently attached to a commercial or business vehicle used in the conduct of such business provided it is not parked on the site being advertised abutting public right-of-way, to bumper stickers, to placards identifying the vehicle itself as being for sale, or to window stickers or placards on vehicles in any vehicle sales lot. (Ord. 4489 § 10, 2008; Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

A. Signs for a legal nonconforming use are permitted. Such signs shall be deemed to comply with the provisions of this chapter if they comply with the sign regulations for the most restrictive zoning district which permits the nonconforming use as a permitted use. Such sign shall be permitted only as long as the nonconforming use is permitted. Any such sign legally existing on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, but which does not comply with the regulations of this chapter shall be deemed to be a nonconforming sign.

B. For the purposes of this chapter, a nonconforming sign is one which does not conform with the provisions of this chapter, but which:

1. Was lawfully in existence and in use within the city prior to the effective date of the ordinance first enacting this chapter;

2. Was lawfully in existence and in use on property outside of the city on the date upon which the annexation of such property to the city was completed;

3. Was lawfully in existence and in use within the city on the effective date of any zone change or specific plan or comprehensive sign plan for the property on which the sign is located; or

4. Was lawfully in existence and in use within the city on the effective date of any amendment of this chapter, the zoning regulations contained in this title or other provision of this code, making such sign nonconforming.

C. For the purposes of this section only, a nonconforming sign exceeding the height or area restrictions contained in this chapter by no more than five percent shall be deemed to conform with the provisions of this chapter limiting height and area.

D. A nonconforming sign shall not be replaced, altered, reconstructed, relocated or expanded in any manner unless and until the sign is made to conform with the provisions of this chapter. This shall not be construed to prevent ordinary maintenance and minor repairs, as determined by the building director.

E. A nonconforming sign destroyed or damaged to an extent exceeding fifty percent of its replacement cost immediately prior to destruction or damage, shall not be continued in use or maintained thereafter and shall be removed or made to conform with the provisions of this chapter within thirty days of the date of such destruction or damage.

F. Each nonconforming sign, other than an outdoor advertising sign subject to the California Outdoor Advertising Act, shall be removed or made to conform with the provisions of this chapter at the sole cost of the owner thereof, whenever any of the following events occur:

1. There is a change in ownership of the property; inheritance by a member of a deceased owner’s family
shall not be deemed to constitute a change of ownership;

2. The business or activity is discontinued or sold;

3. The property is rezoned, subdivided or parceled or the real property upon which the sign is located is severed from the real property upon which the business or primary use of the entire parcel is located, by lease, lease-back, or any other arrangement, method, device or scheme which would otherwise circumvent the intent of this section;

   4. A conditional use permit or modification is granted for the property or use of the property;

   5. A sign permit is issued permitting installation or construction of a new or additional sign on the property;

   6. Any change in the signage is made, excluding minor repairs and precise repainting;

   7. Whenever there is a change in ownership or tenancy of any business or tenant space within a business/shopping center, new wall signage and/or a monument sign conforming to the requirements of this chapter to signify such change is permitted although nonconforming signage exists within such center. However, no change of sign copy to signify such change shall be permitted on any nonconforming sign.

   8. If an existing off-premise business identification sign was permitted under a special sign permit by the

   city and has remained in effect and in compliance with the provisions of that permit, the sign may remain and can be upgraded or altered to reflect a change of business or ownership names even though on-premise signs are being changed or added. However, this sign shall be subject to the following before any new permits are issued:

   a. The sign shall continue to only identify the business or services offered, and shall include direction
   to the property for which the sign was originally permitted by the special sign permit.

   b. The area of the sign shall not exceed ninety-six square feet. If the sign is larger, it shall be reduced to
   not exceed this area. If the sign is smaller, it shall not exceed its present size. If a sign is reduced in area,
   under no circumstances shall it be enlarged even if previous approvals granted a larger size.

   c. The sign shall not be moved or reoriented, except under direction of the building director, to
   improve traffic visibility or safety, to relocate it outside the public right-of-way, or to increase separation
   from other legal freestanding signs.

G. Each such sign determined by the building director to be of historical significance, in accordance with criteria established by the city’s historical preservation commission, shall be exempt from the removal and conformance requirements of this chapter.

H. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as authority for the city to remove without just compensation those signs which, under the California Outdoor Advertising Act, are subject m removal with compensation to the owner. (Ord. 3942 § 1, 1999; Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

A. Any sign that has been abandoned or installed illegally is hereby declared to be a danger to the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Bakersfield. Any sign which is partially or wholly obstructed by the growth of dry vegetation or weeds, or by the presence of debris or litter, also presents a danger to the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Bakersfield.

B. It shall be the duty of the owner and occupant to make immediate repair to any sign deemed by the building director to be imminently dangerous or perilous to the public safety. A sign maintained in violation of this section constitutes a public nuisance. Nothing in this section shall be construed so as to nullify the requirements and remedies as to maintenance established by the Uniform Sign Code or this chapter. Upon a written notice from the building director of a sign deemed unsafe and dangerous to public safety, necessary repairs shall be made immediately. Otherwise, upon a written notice from the building director, the necessary maintenance, alterations or repairs as required by this chapter pursuant to Section 17.60.060 A,9 shall be made within ten days after the date of such notice. In the event the owner, or person in lawful possession fails to maintain, alter or repair in accordance with such notices, in addition to any other penalty or remedy provided for in this chapter, such sign may be abated by the building director in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.

C. Any signs which are not removed within the required period specified within this chapter, shall constitute a public nuisance and shall be subject to summary abatement at the expense of the owner and the person in lawful possession of such sign, pursuant to the provisions of Sections 38773-38773.7 of the Government Code; the expenses of abatement of such nuisances are a lien against the property on which they are maintained and a personal obligation against the property owner. Said property owner or person in lawful possession shall first be served with a ten day notice to abate the nuisance by removing the sign and shall be given the opportunity to explain to the building director why such sign has not been removed. If, after such opportunity to explain, the building director orders the removal of the sign, the agents of the city shall have authority to enter upon the private property to remove the sign constituting the nuisance. The provisions of this subsection may be utilized separately from, as an alternative to, or in conjunction with, any other remedy provided in this chapter or otherwise provided by law.

D. In the event any person erects, installs, alters, relocates or maintains any sign after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, which sign is in violation of any provision of this chapter, and the same is not removed after notice as specified in subsection C of this section, the same is a public nuisance and shall be subject to abatement at the expense of the person creating, causing, committing or maintaining it, pursuant to the provisions of Sections 38773-38773.7 of the Government Code.

E. The building director may, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this chapter, whenever the permit is issued in error on the basis of incorrect information supplied by the applicant which results in there being a violation of any ordinance, regulations, or any provisions of this chapter.

F. With exception to those signs deemed nonconforming and subject to Section 17.60.100, the owner or person in lawful possession of any sign which is not operational or not used for a period of ninety days, or which was used to advertise or identify that which has been moved or discontinued for a period of ninety days, shall cover or remove all display copy from such sign immediately upon the expiration of such period. If said display copy is removed, any bulbs or other mechanical equipment that becomes exposed shall be covered or removed. If said display copy is not covered or removed within thirty days after notice by the building director, the city may cause said display copy to be removed or covered and the cost shall become a lien against the property on which the sign is located. Extensions for thirty day periods may be granted by the building director. The provisions of this subsection may be utilized separately from, as an alternative to, or in conjunction with, any other remedy provided in this chapter or otherwise provided by law.

G. All signs, except nonconforming signs pursuant to Section 17.60.100, which do not conform with the provisions of this chapter, are public nuisances and shall be removed at the owner’s sole expense within sixty days after the effective date of this chapter. If said sign is not removed within said period, the city may cause said sign to be removed and the cost shall become a lien on the property on which the sign is located. Extensions for thirty day periods may be granted by the building director. The provisions of this subsection may be utilized separately from, as an alternative to, or in conjunction with, any other remedy provided in this code or otherwise provided by law. (Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)

A. It shall be the duty of the building director to enforce the provisions of this chapter.

B. Any decision or interpretation of this chapter shall be final and conclusive by the planning director or official designee.

C. Any sign erected or maintained, or any use of signs contrary to the provisions of this chapter shall be, and the same is, unlawful and a public nuisance, and the building director in conjunction with the city attorney may immediately commence actions for the withholding and/or revocation of permits, abatement, and removal in the manner provided by law. Violators will be liable for all enforcement costs by the city.

D. This chapter may also be enforced by injunction issued out of superior court upon suit of the city, or the owner or occupant of any real property affected by such action.

E. Permits issued in conflict with the provisions of this chapter shall be null and void.

F. Any city official or employee for the purpose of permit review, complaint, or enforcement of this chapter, shall have the right to enter upon the premises for inspection. (Ord. 5172 § 1, 2024; Ord. 3586 § 2, 1994)