Article 5 — Nonconforming Signs

An existing sign which does not conform to the specific provisions of this chapter may be eligible for the designation "legal nonconforming" and may continue to be used and maintained, including change of copy, provided that:

• (a) The sign was installed in conformance with a valid permit and complied with all applicable laws and ordinances on the date it was installed.

(b) The sign is properly maintained and does not in any way endanger the public. (Ord. No. 97-11, § 2, 5-5-97)

• (a) A legal nonconforming sign may lose this designation if:

  • (1) The sign is removed or relocated for any period of time except to be replaced by a new sign of the same type which reduces the nonconformity by at least 50%;

  • (2) The structure or size of the sign is altered in any way except to reduce its nonconformity by at least 50%; or

  • (3) The sign is damaged or destroyed by any means to an extent of more than 50% of its total replacement cost.

• (b) When a legal nonconforming sign loses this designation, it shall be brought into conformance with the provisions of this chapter or removed from the site within 90 days.

• (c) Per section 5491.1(e) of the Business and Professions Code, any amendment to Chapter VIII of Title 13 applies only to new onpremises advertising displays as defined in Business and Professions Code section 5490 .

• (Ord. No. 97-11, § 2, 5-5-97; Ord. No. 02-8, § 1d, 4-15-02)

Existing, legal nonconforming electronic changeable copy signs shall, no later than September 1, 2002, be modified so that no message or display shall contain movement or animation, nor be displayed for a duration of less than four seconds." (Ord. No. 02-8, 4-15-02)