Skip to content

Title 25 — ZONING

Chapter 25.42 — SIGNS

Burlingame Municipal Code · 2026-09 edition · updated 2026-10-02 · Burlingame

§ 25.42.010. Purpose and Applicability.

A. Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to create the legal framework for a comprehensive and balanced system of signs that will preserve the right of free speech and expression, provide an easy and pleasant communication between people and their environment, and avoid the visual clutter that can be harmful to traffic and pedestrian safety, property values, business opportunities, and community appearance. With these purposes in mind, it is the intent of this chapter to authorize the use of signs that:

1. Are well designed, compatible with their surroundings, and preserve locally
recognized values of community appearance;

2. Provide for consistent signage on adjacent sites and within a development;

3. Safeguard and enhance property values in residential, commercial, and industrial
areas by promoting the use of signs which are aesthetically pleasing, of appropriate
scale, and integrated with surrounding buildings and landscape;

4. Protect public investment in and the character of public thoroughfares;

5. Do not detract from the attraction of shoppers and other visitors who are important to
the economy of the City;

6. Promote the free flow of vehicular and non-motorized traffic;

7. Protect pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists from injury and property damage caused
by or attributable to cluttered, distracting, or illegible signage;

8. Are appropriately sized to the activity that displays them;

9. Are expressive of both the identity of individual activities and the community as a
whole; and

10. Are legible in the circumstances in which they are seen.

B. Applicability.

1. This chapter applies to all signs within the City unless specifically exempted by
Section 25.42.020 (Exempt Signs).

2. The number and area of signs set forth in this chapter are intended to be maximum
standards. In addition to the enumerated standards, consideration shall be given to a
sign's relationship to the overall appearance of the subject property, as well as the
surrounding community.

3. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit a person from holding a sign
while picketing or protesting on City of Burlingame property that is open to the
public, as long as the person holding the sign does not block ingress and egress from
buildings; does not create a safety hazard by impeding travel on sidewalks, in bike or
vehicle lanes, or on trails; or does not violate any other reasonable time, place, and
manner restrictions adopted by the City of Burlingame.

C. Severability. If any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word in this chapter is held to be invalid, unconstitutional, or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining portions of this chapter. (Ord. 2000 § 2, (2021))

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 25.42.020. Exempt Signs.

A. Exempt Signs. Those classes of signs designated in the following sections of this chapter may be erected and maintained in the City without the obtaining of a building permit (unless an electrical permit is required) or sign permit and without the payment of fees. However, all exempt signs are subject to the provisions of Section 25.42.030 (General Requirements for All Signs). In computing the total maximum sign area on any building or parcel for purposes of this chapter, the face area of exempted signs shall not be included.

B. Signs Required by Law. Signs required by law, including, but not limited to, signs for
essential public services, including traffic, fire and police signs, signals, devices and
markings of the State, the City, and any other component government authorities; signs of
public utility or service companies, including signs showing the placement or location of
public utility facilities; and trespass and warning signs, are exempt.

C. Signs Integrated into Certain Devices. Any sign integrated into or on a coin-operated
machine, vending machine, gasoline pump, permitted sidewalk vendor receptacle or
telephone booth is exempt.

D. Signs Not Visible from Right-of-Way. Any sign that cannot be viewed from a public right-
of-way is exempt.

E. Signs Carried by Persons. Any sign carried by a person is exempt, so long as it does not
obstruct the use of any public right-of-way.

F. "For Sale" or "For Rent" Signs. Signs pertaining to the sale, exchange, lease, or rental of
the real property on which the sign is located shall be exempt. Not more than one such sign
may be placed on any lot or parcel of land, except that two such signs may be placed on
any corner lot or parcel, one such sign facing each of the abutting streets. Such signs shall
be removed upon the completion of the sale, exchange, lease, or rental of the property.

G. Construction Project Signs. Signs erected on a construction site used to identify businesses
involved in the construction activity are exempt. Such signs shall be wholly contained on
the subject construction site and shall be removed when construction activity has been
completed.

H. Window Signs. A premises, or an occupant of a shopping center or multiuse building, may
display window signs not to exceed 25 percent of the window area of the façade of the
building.

I. Directional Signs. A premises may display one directional sign at each entrance or exit not
more than four square feet in size.

J. Menu Board Signs at Drive-Through Establishments. Signs used to provide information to customers in drive-through aisles at permitted drive-through establishments are exempt. Such signs shall be sized, oriented, and illuminated (where illumination is provided) to be legible only to customers in the drive-through aisle.

K. Flags.

1. Flags shall be permitted within the following limitations:

a. The flag shall be of flexible material, typically cloth, paper, or plastic; shall not
include those painted on or otherwise erected or attached to any structure; and
shall be flown from a flagpole pursuant to this section.

b. No more than three flags shall be permitted per parcel.

c. No flagpole shall exceed 35 feet in height above grade.

d. No flag shall exceed a vertical dimension of five feet nor a horizontal dimension
of eight feet.

2. Each flag flown shall be either a noncommercial sign or a sign directly related to a
service or business offered on the property on which the flag is being flown.

3. Bunting, pennants, and streamers shall only be permitted for automobile sales
businesses.

4. Decorative flags as defined in Article 8 (Definitions), whether temporary or
permanent, may be displayed when attached to light poles within parking areas of an
automobile sales business, provided that the flags do not contain any commercial
message, logo, or symbol. Each decorative flag may not exceed eight square feet in
area, and there shall be no more than one decorative flag per 100 square feet of public
parking area. The lowest portion of the decorative flag shall be a minimum of 10 feet
above adjacent grade.
(Ord. 2000 § 2, (2021); Ord. 2008 § 6, (2023))

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 25.42.030. General Requirements for All Signs.

A. General Requirements.

1. Only Permitted Signs to Be Erected.

a. No person shall erect, reconstruct, alter, relocate, or place any sign within the
City except such signs as are permitted by this chapter. All signs, including the
frames, braces or supports thereof, shall be constructed and maintained in
compliance with this chapter, the California Building Code and National
Electrical Code as adopted by the City, this title, and all other applicable
ordinances of the City.

b. Noncommercial signs as defined in Article 8 (Definitions) are permitted
wherever other signage is permitted under this chapter.

c. Noncommercial signage is subject to the same standards and is included within
the maximum allowances for signs for a parcel.

2. Property Owner's Consent Required. It is unlawful for any person to place, attach, or
maintain any sign, banner, card, sticker, handbill, or other advertising device upon or
within any property, whether public or private, without securing the written consent of the owner or the owner's authorized agent.

3. Maintenance or Alteration of Existing Signs. A sign permit shall not be required for
the maintenance of an existing sign which does not result in a change or alteration in
the size, shape, or illumination of the affected sign. Any work other than such
maintenance shall require a sign permit.

4. Traffic Hazard. No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any street, within a
triangular area formed by the curb lines and their projection, and a line connecting
them at points 35 feet from the intersection of the projected curb lines unless the sign,
in compliance with the provisions of this chapter, has a clearance of at least 10 feet
above curb grade.

Figure 25.42-1: Traffic Hazard

5. Pedestrian Hazard. All signs or other advertising structures which are erected at any
point where pedestrians might be endangered by the presence of the sign shall have a
smooth surface, and no nails, tacks, or wires shall be permitted to protrude from the
sign. Electrical reflectors and devices may extend over the top and in front of the sign
or structure but not less than eight feet above the sidewalk.

6. Projection into Public Right-of-Way.

a. Signs supported entirely on private property may extend up to four feet into a public right-of-way with the approval of an encroachment permit. In no event shall any sign be permitted to extend within three feet of any portion of a public right-of-way used principally for vehicular traffic.

b. Portions of signs extending into a public right-of-way shall have a minimum
vertical clearance of eight feet between the bottom of the sign or its supporting
structure and the surface of the ground or sidewalk below. The minimum
vertical clearance for any part of an awning shall be eight feet, as measured to
the bottom of the awning or valance.

7. Public Places and Objects.

a. No person shall paint, mark, or write on, or post or otherwise affix, any handbill
or sign to or upon any sidewalk, crosswalk, curb, curbstone, street planter,
parking meter or post, street lamp post, hydrant, tree, shrub, tree stake or guard,
railroad trestle, electric light or power or telephone or telegraph pole, or wire
appurtenance thereof or upon any fixture of the fire alarm or other emergency
alert device or upon any lighting system, public bridge, drinking fountain, street sign, or traffic sign.

b. Any handbill or sign found posted or otherwise affixed upon any public property
contrary to the provisions of this section may be removed by an agent of the
Police Department or the Department of Public Works. The person responsible
for any such illegal posting shall be liable for the cost incurred in the removal of
such sign. The Department of Public Works is authorized to affect collection of
the cost.

c. Nothing in this section shall apply to the painting of house numbers upon curbs
done under permits issued by the Director of Public Works under and in
accordance with the provisions of this chapter.

8. Side Wall and Rear Wall Signs. Signs erected or painted on the wall of a building or
structure which immediately abuts an adjacent privately owned parcel shall require
application to and approval of a minor modification by the Director. The Director's
decision to approve such signage shall be based on the following findings:

a. The placement of the sign does not confuse the public regarding the premises
for which the sign is placed;

b. The placement of the sign does not adversely impact the visual conditions with respect to the adjacent property; and

c. Adequate clearance is provided for maintenance of the sign.

9. Removal of Sign from City, County, or State Property Upon Notice. Any sign which
was previously permitted to extend over or to be maintained on any property in which
the City, County, or State owns an interest shall be removed or altered by the person
maintaining such sign, at the person's sole expense, on 30 days' written notice from
the Director whenever, by reason of changed traffic conditions or the construction or
relocation of public improvements, the Director finds that the continued existence of
such sign is no longer consistent with the purposes for which such public property is
to be used.

10. Clearance from Utility Lines. No sign shall be erected or maintained which has less
horizontal or vertical clearance from communication lines and energized electrical
power lines than that prescribed by the law of the State of California or rules and
regulations duly promulgated by State agencies.

11. Obstruction. No sign shall be erected, located or maintained in any manner that
prevents free ingress to or egress from any door, window, or fire escape.

B. Noncommercial Signs and Messages.

1. Noncommercial Signs and Messages. Any sign that can be displayed under the
provisions of this chapter may contain a noncommercial message.

2. Noncommercial Signs in Residential Districts. In the R-1, R-2, R-3, and R-4 zoning
districts and without a sign permit, noncommercial signs no larger individually than
eight square feet and totaling not more than 60 square feet may be placed on a parcel
in addition to the other signage that may be allowed pursuant to this chapter. This
provision is intended to allow reasonable noncommercial expression in residential districts where signage has been restricted because of the need to protect the character
and value of the residential districts.
(Ord. 2000 § 2, (2021))

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 25.42.040. Prohibited Signs.

A. Prohibited Signs. Those classes of signs designated in the following sections of this chapter are expressly prohibited and shall not be erected in any zoning district.

B. Digital or Changeable Copy. With the exception of fuel price signs and marquee signs on
theaters and similar entertainment venues, digital and changeable copy signs are prohibited.

C. Signs Which Conflict with Traffic Control. Signs which by color, location, or design
resemble or conflict with traffic control signs or signals are prohibited, or at any location
where, by reason of the position, shape or color it may interfere with, obstruct the view of,
or be confused with any authorized traffic sign or signal device; or which makes use of the
words "stop," "go," "caution," "look," "danger," or any other word, phrase, symbol or
character in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.

D. Signs on Public Right-of-Way.

1. Except as otherwise allowed under this section, all signs, A-board signs, and
advertising structures placed upon or attached to the ground upon any portion of any
public street, sidewalk, or right-of-way, including signs attached to light poles or
standards, are prohibited.

2. Newspaper vending machines are allowed under Chapter 12.23.

3. Signs required by law allowed under Section 25.42.020 (Exempt Signs) and signs and
banners of a civic nature allowed under Section 25.42.090.B. (Temporary Signs) may
be erected and maintained if they comply with the requirements of this title.

4. Figures, as defined and addressed in Chapter 12.10 (Encroachment Permits) and
pursuant to an encroachment permit, may be placed on a public sidewalk in the area
fronting to property on which the tenant's owned or leased space is located in Subarea
A of the Burlingame Avenue Commercial Area.

E. Off-Premises Advertising (General Advertising). Signs carrying the advertising of a
person, product, or service other than that of the occupant of the parcel on which the sign
is placed are prohibited.

F. Pole Signs. Pole signs, as defined in Article 8 of this title, are prohibited.

G. Portable Signs. Portable signs on public properties, such as A-board signs, are prohibited,
unless specifically otherwise authorized within a Downtown zoning district or the
Broadway Mixed-Use zoning district.

H. Roof Signs, Above-Roof Signs, and Sky Signs. Roof signs, above-roof signs, and sky signs
are prohibited. No portion of any sign shall be allowed to extend above the roof.

I. Signs on Vehicles.

  1. No person shall park any vehicle on public property and place signs on the vehicle when the dominant purpose or use of the vehicle is to be a sign, except for paragraph 2, below. 2. If a person parks any vehicle on private property and places signs on the vehicle with the dominant purpose or use of the vehicle is to be a sign, the placement of the vehicle shall require a sign permit and the square footage of the signage on the vehicle shall be counted toward the allowance for the property on which the vehicle is parked. J. Moving Signs. Any sign is prohibited if all or part of it moves or rotates.

    K. Sky Signs. Any sign attached to, painted on or suspended from a balloon, kite, or similar object secured to real or personal property within the City.

    L. Signs with Flashing Lights. Any sign with animated, moving, or flashing lights, or any sign which, because of flashing lights, brilliant lighting, or reflected light, is a detriment to surrounding properties or prevents the peaceful enjoyment of residential uses, is prohibited. (Ord. 2000 § 2, (2021))

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 25.42.050. Sign Permit and Sign Program Requirements.

A. Administration and Enforcement. The provisions of this chapter shall be administered and enforced by the Director or designee. All other officers and employees of the City shall assist and cooperate with the Director in administering and enforcing the provisions of this chapter.

B. Sign Permit Required. No person shall erect or display any sign unless the Director has
issued a permit for the sign or unless this chapter exempts the sign from the permit
requirement.

C. Sign Permit Limitations. The Director shall apply the standards of this chapter upon the
filing of an application for a sign permit to ensure that the following limitations are
observed:

1. Each zoning district in the City has maximum signage limits permitted with a sign
permit. These limits are specified in Section 25.42.080 (Permanent Signs).

2. Properties that are zoned "unclassified" shall be subject to the standards of the closest
adjacent zoning district, as determined by the Director.

3. Signs enumerated in Section 25.42.020 (Exempt Signs) are exempt from calculation
of maximum signage per frontage.

4. Each sign classification (freestanding sign, wall sign, projecting sign, etc.) has further
specifications that are described in succeeding sections of this chapter. In no case
shall a sign variance be granted to increase the maximum total area of signage to be
permitted on a parcel.

D. Frontage and Sign Area Calculations. In the commercial, industrial, and mixed-use zoning
districts, where maximum signage is related to frontage, the following procedures shall
determine that frontage for purposes of this chapter:

1. A distinction shall be observed between parcel frontage and building frontage as
follows:

a. Parcel frontage shall be used for freestanding ground signs, or combinations of these signs with any other type.

b. Building frontage shall be used to calculate maximum signage area for signs
attached to or wholly supported by a building or major structure.

2. Frontage lengths and sign area limits are determined based on the street classification
and are listed in the requirements for each zoning district. Parcel and building
frontage are further defined in Article 8 (Definitions). The length of any frontage shall
be the figure used to calculate maximum permitted signage on that frontage, as
described in Section 25.42.080 (Permanent Signs).

3. Sign area shall be determined as specified in Section 25.42.070 (Calculation of Sign
Height and Area).

4. Any freestanding sign which can be viewed from two street frontages and which is so
placed that it has equal or nearly equal exposure from each frontage, shall be counted
twice, once for each frontage.

E. Existing Signs. Each premises shall be entitled to sign area within the limitations set forth
in this chapter. However, the area of all existing signs to remain shall be included with any
new signs in calculating the maximum total sign area allowed on a parcel.

F. Sign Permit Application – Information Required and Process.

1. Application Content. A person proposing to erect or display a sign shall file an
application for a permit with the Building Division. The application, at a minimum,
shall contain the following and any additional required information set forth in
application materials:

a. Name, address, and telephone number of sign contractor and the owner and
occupant of the premises where the sign is to be erected or displayed;

b. The date on which the sign is proposed to be erected or displayed;

c. Address and zoning district in which the sign is located;

d. Full description as determined by the Director of all existing and proposed signs;

e. Written consent of the owner of property to erect such sign(s);

f. A drawing to scale that shows:

i. All existing signs displayed on the premises,

ii. The location, height, and size of any proposed signs, and

iii. The percentage of the signable area covered by the proposed sign; and

g. Specifications for the construction or display of the sign and for its illumination
and mechanical movement, if any.

2. Application Fee. An application fee, as established by Council resolution, shall be
paid by the applicant at the time of payment for the building permit fee for installation
of the sign(s).

  1. Review and Time Limits. The Director shall review the application upon the receipt of a completed permit application. Within 30 days from the date the application was determined to be complete and permit fee was filed with the Director, the Director shall determine if the application complies with the provisions of this Chapter 25.42 (Signs) or requires Planning Commission action. 4. Approval or Denial. The Director shall approve a permit for the sign if it complies with the building, electrical, or other adopted codes of the City and with: a. The regulations for signs contained in this chapter and any variance that has been granted from these regulations; and b. Any approved sign variance for the parcel. 5. Denial of Permit. If the Director does not approve a permit for the sign and it is determined that a variance is not an available option, the Director shall state the reasons for the denial in writing and shall mail a certified copy of the reasons for denial to the address of the applicant stated on the application.

    G. Time Limit for Exercise of Sign Permit. In all cases where a sign permit has been approved, a building permit shall be obtained and the sign(s) erected within a period not to exceed six months from date of approval. In the event such sign or signs are not erected within this period, the permit shall become null and void.

    H. No Permit Required. Signs specifically exempted from the provisions of this chapter as specified in Section 25.42.020 (Exempt Signs) are exempt from the permit requirement.

    I. Building Permit Required. No person shall erect, move, alter, change, repair, replace, suspend, or attach any sign, or portion thereof, or cause the same to be done without first obtaining from the Building Official a permit in writing to do so and paying therefor the fees prescribed for such building permit. Upon receipt of a building permit application, and evidence of a valid sign permit issued by the Director, the Building Official shall then examine the plans and specifications and other data and the premises upon which it is proposed to erect the sign or other advertising structure. If it appears that the proposed structure is in compliance with all the requirements of this chapter, the California Building Code in effect at that time, and all other applicable laws and ordinances of the City, the Building Official shall then issue the building permit. Replacement of an existing sign face on a sign cabinet shall not require a sign permit nor a building permit.

    J. Appeal – Decision of Director. Any applicant who is denied a permit for the display of a sign under the provisions of this title may file a written appeal to the Commission within 10 days of the date of the Director's decision. The appeal must be made in writing pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 25.98 (Appeals) of this title, and any applicable fee shall be paid.

    K. Appeal – Decision of Commission. Any decision of the Commission can be appealed to the Council pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 25.98 (Appeals) of this title, and any applicable fee shall be paid. (Ord. 2000 § 2, (2021))

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 25.42.060. Master Sign Program.

A. Purpose. The purpose of a master sign program is to integrate all signs proposed for a single development project with the overall site and structure design to present a unified architectural statement. A master sign program provides a means for the flexible application of sign regulations for projects that require multiple signs and/or unique signs and to achieve, not circumvent, the purpose of this section. A sign program shall not be used to circumvent the City's prohibition on new off-site signs or any other prohibited sign.

B. When Required. The approval of a master sign program shall be required whenever any of
the following circumstances exists. A master sign program may be requested in
circumstances other than those outlined in subsections B.1 through B.3, below, but is not
required.

1. New developments with four or more separate tenant spaces are present on the same
parcel or on multiple parcels that are part of a unified shopping center or similar
business center, regardless of whether the tenant spaces are occupied;

2. Deviations from sign regulations are proposed, including use of iconic signs;

3. Proposed use of signs above the first building story where not otherwise authorized
by this chapter; and

4. Whenever the Director determines that a master sign program is needed because of
special project characteristics (e.g., the size of proposed signs, limited site visibility,
a business within another business, the location of the site relative to major
transportation routes, etc.).

C. Signs Above the First Building Story. Where signs are not specifically authorized by this
chapter for placement on a building above the first story, a master sign program application
may be prepared to request placement above the first story. Any proposed such placement
shall comply with the following:

1. The placement of any such sign shall not obscure any building or window trim or any
architectural feature of the building.

2. The sign shape and design shall be compatible with the architectural style of the
building on which it is placed.

3. The sign size shall be in proportion to façade portion on which it is placed.

4. No more than one sign shall be placed on any building frontage.

  1. The total area of all signage on any one frontage shall be 1.0 square foot of sign area per 1.0 lineal foot of building frontage, with no sign permitted to be larger than 60 square feet. 6. Any proposed deviation from subsection C.1 through C.5 above, except for total allowed sign area, may be considered by the responsible Review Authority upon demonstration by the applicant that the deviation will create a superior design result. D. Findings and Decision. The following findings are required to be made by the responsible Review Authority for the approval of a master sign program application, with or without conditions: 1. The master sign program complies with the purpose and intent of this section and chapter; 2. The master sign program does not allow any sign that is prohibited by Section 25.42.040 (Prohibited Signs); 3. The master sign program standards will result in signs that are visually related or complementary to each other and to the buildings and/or developments they identify through the integration of predominant architectural materials, elements, or details of such buildings or developments; 4. The signage shall make a positive visual contribution to the overall image of the City; 5. Any deviations from sign standards are justified by unique circumstances or conditions applicable to the property; 6. The master sign program will not result in signs that would impair pedestrian and vehicular safety; 7. Light and glare associated with the signs will not negatively affect nearby residential uses; and 8. The master sign program shall not be used to exceed the maximum total number of freestanding signs per parcel frontage. (Ord. 2000 § 2, (2021))
Exceptions & meaning →

§ 25.42.070. Calculation of Sign Height and Area.

A. Sign Height. The height of a sign shall be measured from the highest part of the sign, including any decorative features, to the highest elevation of the adjoining finished grade directly beneath the sign. See Figure 25.42-2.

Figure 25.42-2: Calculating Sign Height

B. Sign Area.

1. Calculating Sign Area – Generally. Supporting structures, such as sign bases and
columns, and decorative features shall not be included in any calculation of sign area,
provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses. See Figure
25.42-3.

2. Calculating Sign Area – Single-Faced Signs. Sign area for single-faced signs shall be
calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all sign backing and borders, emblem,
logo, representation, writing, or other display within a single continuous perimeter
composed of horizontal and vertical lines with no more than eight corners.

3. Calculating Sign Area – Double-Faced Signs. Only one face of a double-faced sign
shall be used to calculate the permitted area of a double-faced sign. Where the two
faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face shall be used.

Figure 25.42-3: Calculating Sign Area

4. Calculating Sign Area – Multi-Faced Signs. On a multi-faced sign, the combined sum
of the area of the largest and smallest faces shall be used to calculate the permitted
area of the sign. See Figure 25.42-4.

Figure 25.42-4: Calculating Sign Area

5. Calculating Sign Area – Three-Dimensional Signs. Signs that consist of, or have
attached to them, one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of
objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks) may have a sign area that is the sum of
two adjacent sides of the smallest cube that will encompass the sign. Signs with three-
dimensional objects that project six inches or less from the sign face shall be
measured as a single-face sign. See Figure 25.42-5.

Figure 25.42-5: Calculating Sign Area for Three-Dimensional Sign
Sign Area = Sum of two adjacent sides (faces)

(Ord. 2000 § 2, (2021))

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 25.42.080. Permanent Signs.

A. Types of Permanent Signs and Where Permitted. This section identifies the types of permanent signs permitted, where specific sign types are permitted in various zoning districts, and the limitations on the establishment of such signs.

B. Awning, Canopy, and Marquee Signs.

1. Where Permitted. An awning, canopy, or marquee, as defined in Article 8
(Definitions), may be installed on a building in accordance with California Building
Code Standards, subject to the zoning requirements for structures on each street or
highway frontage and the limitations established in this title in the zoning districts
identified in Tables 25.42-1 through 25.42-6, below. The signs on these structures
shall conform to the requirements of this chapter.

2. Signable Area. On an awning, canopy, and marquee, the signable area shall not
exceed 50 percent of the area of the principal face of the awning, canopy, or marquee.
The signage located on an awning, canopy, or marquee shall be included in the
maximum total signage allowed on a specified frontage.

3. Projection into Public Right-of-Way. Awnings, canopies, and marquees which are
used for signage and which are entirely supported on private property may extend up
to four feet into the public right-of-way, provided they shall not extend within three
feet of the portion of the public right-of-way used for vehicular traffic (measured from
the face of the curb). Portions of the awnings, canopies, and marquees extending into
the public right-of-way or over a private sidewalk shall have a minimum vertical
clearance of eight feet between the bottom of the structure and the surface of the
ground or sidewalk. An encroachment permit shall be obtained for any such
projection.

4. Illumination. Awnings, canopies, and marquees may be unlit or may be externally
illuminated only by downward directed and shielded lighting fixtures where the cone
of light is contained on the parcel. Internally illuminated awnings and canopies and
marquees are prohibited. An internally illuminated sign that does not to exceed 10 percent of the area of the marquee face may be placed in a frame on a marquee
structure.

C. Combination Signs. Combination signs are signs which have features or characteristics normally found in signs of more than one classification, and shall meet all the requirements for construction, height, location, supports, illumination, or other specifications for each sign type. Where different standards are specified for the sign types, the more restrictive shall apply.

D. Freestanding Signs. As defined in Article 8 (Definitions), freestanding signs include both
monument signs and pylon signs.

1. Where Permitted.

a. Monument signs are allowed in the zoning districts identified in Tables 25.42-1
through 25.42-6, below.

b. Pylon signs are only allowed on certain street frontages in the CAR, I-I, and
RRMU zoning districts, as set forth in Tables 25.42-1 through 25.42-6, below.

2. Size and Height Regulations. Freestanding signs shall comply with and not exceed
the size and height regulations set forth in Tables 25.42-1 through 25.42-6, below.

3. Materials.

a. Monument signs shall be constructed to have the appearance of a fully enclosed
foundation in accordance with Titles 17 and 18 of the Municipal Code. A
monument sign shall be designed so that the style and materials of the sign and
its base are consistent with the architecture of the building(s) on the site.

b. Pylon signs shall be constructed in accordance with Titles 17 and 18 of this
Code and shall have decorative support structures that are architecturally
compatible with on-site buildings.

E. Projecting Signs.

1. Where Permitted. A premises, and each occupant of a shopping center or multiuse
building, may display one projecting sign on each street frontage in the commercial,
industrial, and mixed-use zoning districts. Such signs shall conform to the size and
number regulations set forth in Tables 25.42-1 through 25.42.6, below.

2. Size and Height of Projecting Signs. Projecting signs shall comply with the size
regulations set forth in Tables 25.42-1 through 25.42-6, below.

3. Projection into the Public Right-of-Way.

a. A minimum vertical clearance of eight feet shall be maintained from the bottom
of the sign or its supporting structure to the surface of the ground or sidewalk
below.

b. A projecting sign may project no more than four feet into the public right-of- way and shall not extend within three feet of any portion of a public right-of- way used principally for vehicular traffic. An encroachment permit shall be obtained for any such projection.

F. Wall Signs.

1. Where Permitted. In all nonresidential zoning districts, a premises—and each
occupant of a shopping center or multiuse building—may display wall signs on walls
adjacent to each street, public right-of-way, or private parking lot on which it has
frontage in accordance with the height and area requirements of the zoning district.

2. Signable Area.

a. Wall signs shall only be erected within areas that are signable area. The
maximum area of the signage allowed is restricted by the total sign area
designated for each frontage in each zoning district. The signable area(s) on each
façade of the building that has frontage on a public street, right-of-way, or
parking lot shall be an area of the building façade which does not contain
architectural features and windows, including, but not limited to, friezes,
corbels, tile, and trim.

b. Sign area shall not exceed a maximum of 80 percent of the signable area and no
greater that 75 percent of the vertical dimension of a designated sign band. In no
event shall the sign area be greater than the maximum sign area specified by this
chapter for the zoning district in which the parcel is located.

3. Number. Wall signs may be displayed as one or divided among two or more wall
signs, provided the sum of the area of all such signs does not exceed the maximum
allowed sign area.

4. Additional Limitations. Wall signs may be painted on or attached to the wall but must
not project from the wall by more than 12 inches and must not interrupt architectural
details.

G. Permitted Signs in the R-1 and R-2 Zoning Districts.

1. No signs shall be erected or maintained in any R-1 or R-2 zoning district except the
following:

a. Signs exempted in Section 25.42.020 (Exempt Signs).

b. Noncommercial signs permitted in Section 25.42.030.B. (General Requirements
for All Signs).

c. Freestanding signs for permitted nonresidential uses, subject to the regulations
in this chapter and as set forth in Table 25.42-1, below.

  1. Freestanding Sign Incentive. To promote monument signs, two-sided monument signs are considered to be one sign and in measuring total sign area, only one side of the sign is included in the calculation. 3. Illumination. a. External illumination shall be directed in such a way so that any light bulb, filament, neon tubing, or similar light source is not visible from beyond the property line. b. On parcels that are 10,000 square feet in area or greater, freestanding signs with interior illumination or translucent faces shall be limited to low-level illumination that cannot exceed 0.1 foot-candles at any property line. c. On parcels that are less than 10,000 square feet in area, interior illumination of freestanding signs is prohibited, except for signs less than one square foot in area. d. Interior illumination of wall signs is prohibited. e. All sign illumination shall be turned off by an automatic system between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. Table 25.42-1: R-1 and R-2 Zoning Districts – Permanent Signs Allowed Maximum Number per Maximum Sign Type Parcel Maximum Sign Area Sign Height

Freestanding Parcel Area Maximum Parcel Area Maximum No portion Number Sign Area of any freestanding Less than 1 per Less than 15 sf per sign shall 10,000 sf frontage 10,000 sf frontage exceed seven 10,000 sf and 2 per 10,000 sf and 50 sf per feet in over frontage over frontage height. A sign erected on a building or structure shall not be placed higher than the first story or 12 feet above the established grade below the top of the sign, whichever is lower.

H. Permitted Signs in the R-3 and R-4 Zoning Districts. No signs shall be erected or
maintained in any R-3 or R-4 zoning district except the following:

1. Signs exempted in Section 25.42.020 (Exempt Signs).

2. Noncommercial signs permitted in Section 25.42.030.B. (General Requirements for
All Signs).

3. Freestanding signs and wall signs subject to the regulations listed in this chapter and
as set forth in Table 25.42-2, below.

  1. Signs established for the purpose of directing vehicles and pedestrians into and within parking areas. Such signs shall be limited to a total of six signs per parcel, each limited in size to three feet in height and three square feet in area. Such signs shall only be located at driveway entrances and within parking areas. Such signs shall be exempt from the total square footage calculation. 5. Freestanding Sign Incentive. To promote monument signs, two-sided monument signs are considered to be one sign and in measuring total sign area, only one side of the sign is included in the calculation. 6. Illumination. a. External illumination shall be directed in such a way so that any light bulb, filament, neon tubing, or similar light source is not visible from beyond the property line. b. On parcels that are 10,000 square feet in area or greater, freestanding signs with interior illumination or translucent faces shall be limited to low-level illumination that cannot exceed 0.1 foot-candles at any property line. c. On parcels that are less than 10,000 square feet in area, interior illumination of freestanding signs is prohibited, except for signs less than one square foot in area. d. Interior illumination of wall signs is prohibited. e. All sign illumination shall be turned off by an automatic system between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. Table 25.42-2: R-3 and R-4 Zoning Districts – Permanent Signs Allowed Sign Maximum Maximum Sign Type Number Maximum Sign Area Height

Wall and No more than Parcel Area Maximum Sign No portion of any Freestanding 3 signs for Area per side freestanding sign each frontage, shall exceed seven one of which feet. may be a two- Less than 15 sf 0.5 sf per A sign erected on a sided 10,000 sf lineal foot of building or structure monument 10,000 – parcel frontage shall not be placed sign. 15,000 sf per side (25 sf higher than the first maximum) story or 12 feet above the 15,001 – 0.5 sf per lineal established grade 30,000 sf foot of parcel below the sign, frontage per whichever is lower. side (30 sf maximum)

Over 30,000 sf 0.5 sf per lineal
foot of parcel
frontage per
side (50 sf
maximum)

I. Permitted Signs in the C-1, BAC, BMU, CAC, CR, DAC, HMU MMU, BRMU, CMU, and
NBMU Zoning Districts.

1. Permanent Signs. All permanent signs shall comply with the standards set forth in
Table 25.42-3, below.

2. Pole Signs Prohibited. In addition to the signs specified in Section 25.42.040
(Prohibited Signs), pole signs are prohibited.

3. Signs Providing Direction Allowed. Signs established for the purpose of directing
vehicles and pedestrians into and within parking areas are allowed as follows and
shall not count toward the total square footage of allowable signage:

a. Up to a total of six signs per parcel, each not to exceed three feet in height and three square feet in area, and

b. Only located at driveway entrances and within parking areas.

4. Freestanding Sign Incentive. To promote monument signs, two-sided monument
signs are considered to be one sign and in measuring total sign area, only one side of
the sign is included in the calculation.

5. Illumination.

a. See Section 25.42.080.B.4. regarding illumination of awning signs.

b. A permanent sign may be non-illuminated, illuminated by internal, internal
indirect, or external indirect illumination. Signs that are externally lit shall be
illuminated only with steady, stationary, downward-directed, and shielded light
sources directed solely onto the sign.

c. A sign shall not be animated, have changeable copy, or have flashing
illumination.

Table 25.42-3: C-1, BAC, BMU, CAC, CR, DAC, HMU MMU, BRMU, CMU, and
NBMU Zoning Districts – Permanent Signs

Location
and
Allowed Sign Maximum Maximum Sign Area per Maximum Additional
Type Number Building Frontage Sign Height Regulations

Awning, 2 per tenant Primary Frontage: 1.5 sf a. Wall a. Any Projecting, and frontage per 1 lineal foot of tenant signs may single sign Wall frontage, with maximum of be placed on on any 100 sf total for all signage any frontage along primary frontage designated shall not Secondary Frontage: 0.75 frontage. exceed 60 sf per 1 lineal foot of b. No square feet tenant frontage, with awning, in area. maximum of 50 sf total for projecting, b. all signage along secondary or wall sign Monument frontage shall extend signs are In all cases, at least 30 sf of above the prohibited total sign area per frontage roof line. on parcels is allowed (to address with a narrow tenant frontages). parcel frontage of Monument Frontage Maximum 50 sf 6 ft less than Number per side 100 feet. 100 – 299 ft 1

300 – 399 ft 2

400 ft or 3
greater

J. Permitted Signs in the Downtown California Drive Auto Row (CAR) Zoning District and
For Vehicles Sales Not Located Within the CAR Zoning District.

1. Permanent Signs. All permanent signs shall comply with the standards set forth in
Table 25.42-4, below.

2. Signs Providing Direction Allowed. Signs established for the purpose of directing
vehicles and pedestrians into and within parking areas are allowed as follows and
shall not count toward the total square footage of allowable signage:

a. Up to a total of six signs per parcel, each not to exceed three feet in height and
three square feet in area, and

b. Only located at driveway entrances and within parking areas.

  1. Freestanding Sign Incentive. To promote monument signs, two-sided monument signs are considered to be one sign and in measuring total sign area, only one side of the sign is included in the calculation. 4. Illumination. a. See Section 25.42.080.B.4. regarding illumination of awning signs. b. A permanent sign may be non-illuminated, illuminated by internal, internal indirect, or external indirect illumination. Signs that are externally lit shall be illuminated only with steady, stationary, downward-directed, and shielded light sources directed solely onto the sign. c. A sign shall not be animated, have changeable copy, or have flashing illumination. Table 25.42-4: CAR Zoning District Location and Allowed Sign Maximum Maximum Sign Maximum Sign Additional Type Number Area Height Regulations

Awning, 5 per building Building Maximum a. Wall signs a. Wall signs Projecting, and frontage Frontage Total may be placed shall be Wall Length Sign on any permitted on any Area of designated building all Signs frontage. frontage subject b. No awning, to the sign area 50 ft or 150 sf projecting, or limitations in less wall sign shall this table and the 51 ft – 300 sf extend above placement 100 ft the roof line. requirements in 101 ft – 450 sf Section 150 ft 25.46.080.F (Wall Signs). Over 500 sf b. Monument 150 ft signs are Monument – Frontage Number 50 sf per side, 100 12 ft on prohibited on Permitted in sf total area California parcels with a 150-299 1 addition to Drive parcel frontage ft allowed wall, 6 ft on all other of less than 150 awning, 300-399 2 streets feet. projecting, and ft pylon signs 400 ft or 3 greater

Pylon – Frontage Number
Permitted in
addition to wall,
awning,
projecting, and
monument signs

Table 25.42-4: CAR Zoning District

Location and
Allowed Sign Maximum Maximum Sign Maximum Sign Additional
Type Number Area Height Regulations

150-299 1 150 sf per side, 300 25 ft a. Allowed only sf total sign area on Broadway, 300 or 2 California more Drive, and Rollins Road. b. A pylon sign shall be counted as 2 signs, and each side shall be counted in the total sign area. c. Pylon signs are prohibited on parcel frontages less than 150 feet in length. d. Pylon signs shall have decorative support structures that are architecturally compatible with on-site buildings and shall not consist of a single pole.

K. Permitted Signs in the Bayfront Commercial (BFC) Zoning District.

1. Permanent Signs. All permanent signs shall comply with the standards set forth in
Table 25.42-5, below.

2. Prohibited: Pole Signs. In addition to the signs specified in Section 25.42.040
(Prohibited Signs), pole signs shall be prohibited. However, a pole sign lawfully
existing on March 31, 2008 may continue to exist so long as it conforms to the
provisions of Section 25.42.100 (Nonconforming Signs). Further, notwithstanding
Section 25.42.040 (Prohibited Signs), if the parcel on which a pole sign lawfully
existing on March 31, 2008 is located is subdivided in accordance with Title 26
(Subdivisions) of this Code, the advertising on the existing pole sign may advertise
the businesses that are located on the resulting parcels but only under the following
circumstances:

a. No physical alterations of any kind may occur except for replacement of the
actual face of the sign and maintenance as permitted under Section 25.42.100
(Nonconforming Signs).

b. Advertising is limited to the advertising of a person, product, or service of an
occupant of the parcels created by the subdivision of the original parcel and only
during the period of actual occupancy by such an occupant.

c. If the sign is removed, it cannot be replaced.

d. No other freestanding signage may be placed on any of the parcels created by
the subdivision of the original parcel so long as the pole sign remains.

e. All off-premises advertising as prohibited in Section 25.42.040 (Prohibited Signs) on the pole sign shall be removed if any of the parcels created by the subdivision of the original parcel are redeveloped by the demolition or construction of any structure or any portion of any structure exceeding 1,000 square feet or 10 percent of the floor area—gross square footage of the structures on the parcel, whichever is greater. Following removal of the off- premises advertising, the only advertising allowed on the pole sign shall be advertising of a person, product, or service located on the one parcel on which the pole sign is then located.

f. The provisions of this section are recorded in a form approved by the City
Attorney on the title of each of the parcels created by the subdivision of the
original parcel.

3. Limitation on Size of Sign. No single sign or single side of a freestanding sign shall
be larger than 250 square feet in area. The maximum total sign area allowed on the
upper half of a building on each building frontage is 350 square feet.

4. Signs Providing Direction Allowed. Signs established for the purpose of directing
vehicles and pedestrians into and within parking areas are allowed as follows and
shall not count toward the total square footage of allowable signage:

a. Up to a total of six signs per parcel, each not to exceed three feet in height and
three square feet in area, and

b. Only located at driveway entrances and within parking areas.

5. Limitation on Total Sign Area. The maximum total sign area allowed on each parcel
frontage, inclusive of all allowable signage except for signs providing direction, as
identified in subsection K.4 above, shall be determined based on the length of the
parcel frontage calculated in accordance with the following:

Maximum Total Sign Area per Parcel
Parcel Frontage Length Frontage
50 feet or less 100 square feet
51 feet to 150 feet 150 square feet
151 feet to 250 feet 250 square feet
251 feet to 350 feet 350 square feet

Maximum Total Sign Area per Parcel Parcel Frontage Length Frontage Over 350 feet 500 square feet

6. Illumination.

a. See Section 25.42.080.B.4. regarding illumination of awning signs.

b. A permanent sign may be non-illuminated, illuminated by internal, internal
indirect, or external indirect illumination. Signs that are externally lit shall be
illuminated only with steady, stationary, downward-directed, and shielded light
sources directed solely onto the sign.

c. A sign shall not be animated, have changeable copy, or have flashing
illumination.

Table 25.42-5: Bayfront Commercial Zoning District

Location and
Allowed Maximum Maximum Additional
Sign Type Maximum Number Sign Area Sign Height Regulations

Wall, 6 per building See Section a. Wall signs a. Wall signs Awning, and frontage, with no 25.43.080.K.5 may be placed shall be permitted Projecting more than 3 signs above for on any on any building on the lower half of limitation on designated frontage subject a building and 3 total sign area frontage. to the sign area signs on the upper per parcel. b. No awning, limitations in this half of a building projecting, or table and the wall sign shall placement extend above requirements in the roof line. Section 25.42.080.F Monument Frontage Number (Wall Signs). 0-150 sf 1 Airport Blvd., 8 ft. b. For purposes Bayshore of this section, no 151 sf or 1 for Hwy, and building shall be greater every Gilbreth Rd.: considered to 150 sf of 75 sf for any have more than frontage one sign face four building All Other frontages Streets: 40 sf regardless of the for any one building's design sign face or parcel. See Section above for limitation on total sign area per parcel.

L. Permitted Signs in the Innovative Industrial (I-I) and North Rollins Mixed-Use (RRMU)

Zoning Districts.

1. Permanent Signs. All permanent signs shall comply with the standards set forth in
Table 25.42-6, below.

2. Limitation on Use of Pylon Signs. Pylon signs are prohibited except on parcels on
Adrian Road, Broadway, and Gilbreth Road having a frontage of 150 feet or greater.
Where used, pylon signs shall have decorative supporting structures that are
architecturally compatible with on-site buildings and shall not consist of a single pole.

3. Monument Signs Incentive. To promote monument signs where pylon signs are
allowed, two-sided monument signs are considered to be a single sign and in
measuring total sign area, only one side of the sign is included in the calculation.

4. Residential Developments in RRMU Zoning District. Any residential project in the
RRMU zoning district shall comply with the sign standards applicable to the R-3 and
R-4 zoning districts.

5. Mixed-Use Developments in RRMU Zoning District. Any mixed-use project in the
RRMU zoning district shall comply with the sign standards applicable to the C-1,
BAC, BMU, CAC, CR, DAC, HMU, MMU, BRMU, CMU, and NBMU zoning
districts.

6. Signs Providing Direction Allowed. Signs established for the purpose of directing
vehicles and pedestrians into and within parking areas are allowed as follows and
shall not count toward the total square footage of allowable signage:

a. Up to a total of six signs per parcel, each not to exceed three feet in height and
three square feet in area, and

b. Only located at driveway entrances and within parking areas.

7. Illumination.

a. See Section 25.42.080.B.4. regarding illumination of awning signs.

b. A permanent sign may be non-illuminated, illuminated by internal, internal
indirect, or external indirect illumination. Signs that are externally lit shall be
illuminated only with steady, stationary, downward-directed, and shielded light
sources directed solely onto the sign.

c. A sign shall not be animated, have changeable copy, or have flashing
illumination.

Table 25.42-6: Innovative Industrial and North Rollins Mixed-Use Zoning Districts

Location and Allowed Maximum Sign Maximum Additional Sign Type Maximum Number Area Sign Height Regulations

Wall, Maximum of 3 Building Maximuma. Wall signs a. Wall signs Awning, and signs on any Frontage Total may be placed shall be Projecting building frontage Length Sign on any permitted on Area designated any building frontage. frontage 50 ft or 150 sf b. No awning, subject to the less projecting, or sign area 51-100 200 sf wall sign shall limitations in ft extend above this table and 101-150 250 sf the roof line. the placement ft requirements in Section 151-200 300 sf 25.42.080.F ft (Wall Signs). Over 350 sf b. For 200 ft purposes of this section, no building shall be considered to have more than four building frontages regardless of the building's design or parcel.

Monument – Frontage Number Adrian Rd., 8 ft
Can be Broadway, and 150-300 1
established Rollins Rd: 75 sf
in addition 301 – 400 2 per side and 150 sf
toallowable of total sign area
wall, awning, Over 400 3 All other streets:
and ft 40 sf per side and
projecting 80 sf of total sign
signs area

Table 25.42-6: Innovative Industrial and North Rollins Mixed-Use Zoning Districts

Location and
Allowed Maximum Sign Maximum Additional
Sign Type Maximum Number Area Sign Height Regulations

Pylon Signs Over 150 1 120 sf per side and 40 ft
a. Only ft 240 sf of total sign
allowed on area
Adrian Rd.,
Broadway
and Gilbreth
Rd. on
parcels with
150 ft or
more of
frontage
b. Only
allowed in
lieu of a
monument
sign
c. Can be
established
in addition to
allowable
wall, awning,
and
projecting
signs

(Ord. 2000 § 2, (2021))

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 25.42.090. Temporary Signs.

A. Purpose. In addition to Section 25.42.010 (Purpose and Applicability) of this chapter, the purpose of this section is to ensure that temporary signs do not create a distraction to the traveling public by limiting the proliferation of temporary signs and eliminating aesthetic blight and litter that are detrimental to the public's health, safety, and general welfare.

B. General Standards for All Temporary Signs.

1. Temporary Sign Content Neutrality. All regulations and standards in this section are
to be exercised in light of the City's content neutrality policy. These provisions are
not intended to limit, censor, or restrict free speech.

2. Relationship to Permanent Sign Regulations. The number and area of temporary signs
shall not be included in the calculation of permanent sign area.

3. Duration and Removal of Temporary Signs. Temporary signs may be posted for no
more than 60 days in any 12 consecutive calendar months.

C. Sign Materials. Temporary signs shall be made of durable, weather-resistant materials, as
determined by the Director.

D. Illumination Prohibited. Temporary signs shall not be illuminated.

E. Sign Placement.

1. Temporary signs are allowed on private property only subject to permission of the
property owner.

2. Temporary signs shall not be placed in any public right-of-way except as may
otherwise be permitted by the Municipal Code.

F. Temporary Signs in Residential Zoning Districts. See Section 25.42.020 (Exempt Signs)
for permitted temporary sign types and standards in residential zoning districts, including
temporary signs displaying noncommercial messages or residential activities, such as yard
sales, new construction, and advertisement for a property that is for sale, rent, or lease.

G. Temporary Signs in Nonresidential Zoning Districts. Temporary signs shall comply with
the standards set forth in this subsection. Table 25.42-7 identifies the sign type, number,
location, area, and height allowed within nonresidential zoning districts, along with any
applicable additional regulations. The standards contained in Table 25.42-7 are maximums,
unless otherwise stated. The signs in Table 25.42-7 are allowed in any combination unless
otherwise noted in this subsection. However, businesses shall not display more than five
temporary signs at any one time, except for allowed window signs.

Table 25.42-7: Temporary Signs in Nonresidential Zoning Districts

Maximum Sign Maximum Sign Additional Sign Type Maximum Number Area Height Regulations

a. Banner 1 per business 30 sf or 10% of N/A See Section
Sign frontage business frontage 25.42.090.H.
on which banner is
placed, whichever
is lesser

b. Feather 1 per 50 linear feet 12 sf 10 ft See Section
Sign of street frontage 25.42.090.H.
up to 2 signs per
street frontage

c. Yard Sign 1 per business 25 sf 6 ft See Section
frontage 25.42.090.H.

H. Temporary Sign Type Standards.

1. Banner Sign.

a. Businesses and institutions may exhibit banner signs related to an activity or
event having a specific duration, or the end of which is related to a specific
action.

b. Banner signs shall be affixed to a permanent structure. Banner signs shall be
securely affixed at all corners and other points as necessary and shall not interfere with pedestrian paths of travel.

c. Banner signs shall not project above the edge of the roof of a structure.

d. Banner signs shall be professionally crafted and well maintained (i.e., not torn,
bent, faded, or dirty).

2. Feather Sign. Businesses and institutions may exhibit feather signs related to an
activity or event having a specific duration, or the end of which is related to a specific
action.

a. Feather signs shall not interfere with either pedestrian or vehicular sight
distance, any view corridor, or obstruct views to any existing business or
existing permanent sign.

b. Feather signs shall be set back at least five feet from any property line.

c. Feather signs are permitted during the hours a business is open for business and
one-half hour before opening and one-half hour after closing. Feather signs shall
be removed during hours when the establishment is not open to the public.

d. Acceptable materials for feather signs include vinyl, nylon reinforced vinyl, polyethylene or polyester-like materials, durable fabric, or similar materials.

3. Yard Sign. Businesses and institutions may exhibit yard signs related to an activity or
event having a specific duration, or the end of which is related to a specific action,
subject to the following:

a. Yard signs shall be located outside of public rights-of-way. Yard signs shall be
set back at least one foot from any property line and located within the
landscaped setback.

b. Yard signs shall not interfere with either pedestrian or vehicular sight distance,
any view corridor, or obstruct views to any existing business or existing
permanent sign.

c. Yard signs shall be installed securely in the ground.

I. Signs and Banners of a Civic Nature. The City Manager or designee may, upon written
application to the Manager, issue administrative sign permits for temporary signs and
banners announcing a community event sponsored by a charitable or educational group in
the City at no more than two places in the City. The City Manager shall, prior to issuance
of a permit, require recommendations regarding matters of safety, construction, and
location from applicable City departments, and shall ensure that all the following
conditions are fulfilled:

1. Each sign is required for the convenience or safety of the public;

2. Each sign is directly related to an event that is clearly of a noncommercial nature
directly related to the City;

3. Each sign is of a temporary nature, and not to remain up longer than 14 consecutive
days in any 12-month period; and

4. Insurance in the amount set by the City Attorney for such permits be provided.
(Ord. 2000 § 2, (2021))

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 25.42.100. Nonconforming Signs.

A. Change and Modification. A nonconforming sign or sign structure shall be brought into conformity with this chapter if it is altered, reconstructed, replaced, or relocated. A change in copy is not an alteration or replacement for purposes of this section.

B. Maintenance. Nonconforming signs must be maintained in good condition. Maintenance
required by this section shall include replacing or repairing of worn or damaged parts of a
sign or sign structure in order to return it to its original state and is not considered to be a
change or modification prohibited by Section 25.42.040 (Prohibited Signs).

C. Removal. Removal of a nonconforming sign, or replacement of a nonconforming sign with
a conforming sign, is required when:

1. A nonconforming sign, or a substantial part of a nonconforming sign, is blown down,
destroyed, or for any reason or by any means taken down, altered, or removed. As
used in this subsection, "substantial" means 50 percent or more of the value of the
entire sign structure, as determined by the Building Official; or

2. The condition of the nonconforming sign or nonconforming sign structure has
deteriorated and the cost of restoration of the sign to its condition immediately prior
to such deterioration exceeds 50 percent of the value of the sign or sign structure prior
to its deterioration, as determined by the Building Official; or

3. The use of the nonconforming sign, or the property on which it is located, has ceased,
become vacant, or been unoccupied for a period of 180 consecutive days or more.

D. General Requirements. Where a legal nonconforming use exists, any signs to be erected
shall require application to and approval by the Director. The number of signs permitted on
the building or parcel, the size and nature thereof, and their location on the property shall
be determined by the provisions of this title applicable to such property as if it were
classified for the actual use then existing. However, the Director may modify such
standards if it is determined that the use or condition of adjacent parcels makes such
standards inappropriate because the illumination, location, or size of the signage would
unreasonably interfere with the quiet enjoyment and use of one or more adjacent parcels.
(Ord. 2000 § 2, (2021))

Exceptions & meaning →

Get a plain-English answer with a citation back to this text.

Ask AI about this code
▸Contents — Burlingame Municipal Code

GoCodebook provides public access, search, citation, multilingual explanation, and practical interpretation of legally adopted building regulations. It is not a substitute for the official ICC or California code publications.