Chapter 830.3 — Signs

The purpose of this Chapter is to:

• A. Establish general regulations for signs and other exterior advertising formats.

• B. Establish additional standards and regulations applicable to zones.

• C. Recognize that the eventual elimination of existing signs that do not comply with the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance is as important as is the denial of new signs that violate these regulations.

• D. Safeguard and enhance property values; protect public and private investment in structures and open spaces; and improve the appearance of the County as a place in which to live and work and as an attraction to nonresidents who come to visit or trade.

• E. Encourage sound signing practices as an aid to business and provide information to the traveling public.

• F. Prevent excessive and confusing sign displays.

• G. Reduce hazards to motorists and pedestrians and promote the public health, safety, and general welfare

• A. Applicability. The sign standards provided in this Chapter shall apply to signs in all zones in the County. Only signs authorized by this Chapter shall be allowed in any zone, unless otherwise expressly provided in this Chapter.

• B. Message neutrality. It is the County’s policy to regulate signs in a constitutional manner that is content neutral with respect to both noncommercial and commercial messages.

• C. Regulatory interpretations. Interpretations of the requirements of this Chapter shall be exercised in light of the County’s content neutrality policy. Where a particular type of sign is proposed in a permit application, and the type is neither expressly allowed nor prohibited by this Chapter, or whenever a sign does not qualify as a “structure” as defined in the California Building Code, then the Director shall approve, conditionally approve, or deny the application based on the most similar sign type that is expressly regulated by this Chapter.

• D. Substitution of messages. Signs authorized by this Chapter are allowed to carry noncommercial messages in lieu of any other commercial or noncommercial messages. Substitution of messages may be made without an additional permitting process. This

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provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this Chapter. The purpose of this provision is to prevent an inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message. This provision does not create a right to increase the total number of signs on a parcel, nor does it affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly constructed.

E. Rules for non-communicative aspects of signs. Rules and regulations concerning the non-communicative aspects of signs, (e.g., number, type, location, size, height, illumination, spacing orientation, etc.), stand enforceable independently of any permit or review process.

The following words, terms, and phrases, when used in this Division, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this Division, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Abandoned sign. A sign remaining in place or not maintained for a period of 90 days which no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, product, or service available on the business premise where the sign is located.

Advertising structure. See billboard.

Alteration. Any change of color, construction, copy, footings, height, illumination, location, position, shape, sign face, size, or supporting structure of any sign.

Animated sign. A sign that uses movement, lighting (blinking, flashing, moving), or special materials to depict action or create a special effect or scene. This classification includes windactuated and other elements (e.g., balloons, bunting, pennants, streamers, whirligigs), fiber optic, laser, search lights, strobe, and string lighting of any type, including blinking or Tivoli Lights, or other similar devices. For the purposes of this Chapter, time and temperature displays, flags, traditional barber poles, and electronic changeable copy signs are not considered animated signs.

Apartment/multi-family identification sign. A sign identifying an apartment or multi-family structure, an apartment or multi-family complex, or a planned unit development project by name and/or address.

Area of a sign. See sign area.

Banner. A temporary sign made of fabric or any non-rigid material with no enclosing framework.

Base of the sign structure. The structural component of a freestanding sign located below the sign face.

Billboard. A sign that directs attention to a business, commodity, entertainment, product, service, or activity offered at a location other than the site or parcel on which the sign is located. This

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definition does not include real estate signs, temporary signs, or directional signs allowed and approved pursuant to this Chapter.

Building frontage. The linear dimension of a structure that faces upon a public street (excluding an alley) or public/private parking lot, if appropriate, and is roughly parallel to it.

Business center. A group of contiguous businesses which utilize common access, off-street parking, and/or center name.

Business frontage. That portion of a building frontage occupied by a single business tenant having a public entrance within the building frontage.

Business identification sign. A sign which serves to identify the name(s), address(es), and specific use(s) of the site upon which it is located.

Commercial message content, or speech. Any message, the prevailing thrust of which is to propose a commercial transaction.

Contractor or construction sign. A sign which states the name of the developer and contractor(s) working on the site and any related architectural, engineering, or financial organizations involved with the project.

Copy. Designs, figures, letters, numbers, words, or other symbolic representations incorporated into a sign.

Current value. The original cost or valuation of a sign depreciated in compliance with this Chapter.

Directional sign. An on-site sign giving only information and direction to the viewer and containing no advertising message.

Directory sign. A sign for listing all/any of the tenants and their suite numbers of a multi-tenant structure or center.

Double-faced sign. A sign constructed to display its message on the outer surfaces of two identical and/or opposite parallel planes.

Edge of roof. On a pitched roof, the lowest portion of the facia board covering the roof rafters, or if no facia board exists, the lowest point of the roof rafters. On a flat roof, the top of the parapet wall.

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Electronic reader board sign. A sign with a fixed or changing display/message composed of a series of lights, but not including time and temperature displays.

Externally illuminated sign. A sign illuminated from an exterior light source.

Fence sign. A sign attached to or painted onto a freestanding fence or wall.

Flag. A fabric, material, or textile of any shape or size, with colors, patterns, and the like used as symbols of a nation, state, or company, or used for attracting attention; a pennant.

Flashing sign. A sign that contains an intermittent or sequential flashing light source.

Freestanding sign. A sign standing on the ground, which is self-supporting, not attached to a structure. Signs mounted on architecturally integrated extensions of structures shall not be considered freestanding.

Frontage. The front of the property or legal front side shall be assigned to the shortest width of the property abutting a roadway in compliance with the State Map Act.

Future tenant identification sign. A temporary sign that identifies the names of future businesses that will occupy a site or structure.

Governmental sign. Signs placed by a governmental entity and/or required by local, State, or Federal law.

Grand opening. A temporary promotional activity, not exceeding 30 calendar days, used by newly established businesses, within 60 days after initial occupancy, to inform the public of their location and services available to the community. "Grand Opening" does not mean an annual or occasional promotion of retail sales by a business.

Graphic. All depictions, lettering, logos, patterns, pictures, and symbols, including color, on a sign.

Height of sign. The vertical distance from the uppermost point of a sign to the average finish grade immediately below and adjoining the sign or the top of the nearest curb of the public street on which the sign fronts, whichever measurement is the greatest. The average or finish grade immediately below and adjoining the sign shall not be artificially increased in height in order to increase the overall height of the sign, subject to the approval of the Director.

sign to the average finish grade immediately below and adjoining the sign or the top of the nearest curb of the public street on which the sign fronts, whichever measurement is the greatest. The average or finish grade immediately below and adjoining the sign shall not be artificially increased in height in order to increase the overall height of the sign, subject to the approval of the Director.

Holiday displays. Temporary signs, in the nature of decorations, clearly incidental and customarily associated with nationally recognized holidays and which contain no advertising message.

I-frame sign. A portable sign with advertising messages mounted on one or two surfaces with two generally parallel edges constructed so that the two faces read from different directions.

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Illegal sign. A sign which includes any of the following:

1. A sign erected without first complying with all regulations in effect at the time of its construction or use;

2. A sign that was erected without first obtaining all required permits;

3. A sign that was legally erected, but whose use has ceased, the structure upon which the display is placed has been abandoned by its owner, or the sign is not being used to identify or advertise an ongoing business for a period of at least 90 days;

4. A sign that was legally erected which later became nonconforming and then was damaged to the extent of 50 percent or more of its current replacement value;

5. A sign which is a danger to the public or is unsafe; or

6. A sign which is a traffic hazard not created by relocation of streets or highways or by acts of the County.

Inflatable sign. A form of inflatable device or a sign that is displayed, painted, or printed on the surface of a balloon or any other form of inflatable background, and is primarily installed outside a structure to attract attention to or to advertise a business, a business location, an event, a product, or a service. See “Animated sign”.

Internally illuminated sign. A sign whose light source is located in the interior of the sign so that the light goes through the face of the sign, or internal light source which is attached to the face of the sign and is perceived as a design element of the sign.

Institutional sign. A sign identifying the premises of, or announcing the activities conducted by, a hospital, place of worship, rest home, college, university, school, or similar institutional facility.

Light-emitting diode (LED) sign. A sign illuminated by use of light-emitting diode (LED) lights.

Logo. The emblem, insignia, name, symbol, or trademark of a company or organization.

Major tenant. A tenant in a business center leasing a large portion (at least 25 percent) of the overall leasable square footage in the center.

Marquee (canopy) sign. A sign which is attached to or otherwise made a part of a permanent roof-like structure which projects beyond the structure wall in the form of a canopy to provide protection from the weather.

Monument sign. An independent, freestanding structure supported on the ground having a solid base as opposed to being supported by poles or open braces.

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Multiple tenant site/center. A commercial or industrial development consisting of two or more separate businesses that share either the same parcel or structure and use common access and parking facilities.

Neon sign . Glass tube lighting in which a gas and phosphors are used in combination to create a colored light.

Non-commercial message content, or speech. Any message that is not determined to be commercial speech, as defined above.

Nonconforming sign. An advertising structure or sign which was lawfully erected and maintained before the adoption of this Development Code, and which has subsequently come under the requirements of this Development Code, but does not comply with this Development Code.

Obscene sign. Signs when taken as a whole, which to the average person applying contemporary statewide standards, appeals to prurient interest and depicts or describes in a patently offensive manner sexual conduct which lacks serious artistic, literary, political, or scientific value.

Official flag. The official flag of the United States of America, the State of California, other government agencies, civic organizations, corporate organizations, and private or non-profit organizations.

Off-site advertising sign . A sign structure or billboard, whether freestanding or mounted on an existing structure, built for the purpose of advertising an establishment, product, or service that is not available on the property upon which the sign is located at the time the sign structure was erected.

Off-site directional sign. A sign identifying an emergency facility, publicly owned facility, or a temporary subdivision sign, but excluding real estate signs.

Off-site sign. Any sign identifying a facility, product, service, or use which is not located, manufactured, or sold on the same premise as the sign or which identifies a facility, product, service, or use by a brand name which, although manufactured or sold on the premise, does not constitute the principal item manufactured or sold on the premise.

Off-site subdivision sign. A temporary off-site, free-standing sign designed, erected, and maintained to serve the public by providing directions and information regarding new developments and/or community facilities.

Painted sign. A sign painted or silkscreened onto a structure wall or freestanding structure.

Pennant. See flag.

Permanent sign. A sign constructed of durable materials and intended to exist for the duration of time that the occupant or use is located on the premises.

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Placed or displayed. Carved, constructed, erected, glued, painted, posted, printed, tacked, or otherwise fastened, fixed, or made visible in any manner whatsoever.

Pole sign. A freestanding sign supported by one or more poles.

Political sign. A temporary sign designed for the purpose of advertising support of, or opposition to, a candidate or proposition for a public election.

Reader board sign. See changeable copy sign.

Real estate sign. A temporary sign indicating that a property, or any portion thereof, is available for inspection, lease, rent, sale, or directing people to a property, but not including temporary subdivision signs.

Roof line. A horizontal plane projected parallel to the plane of the roof fascia line or top of a parapet wall or an angular plane projected parallel to the verge rafter of a gable roof.

Roof sign. A sign constructed upon or over a roof, or placed so as to extend above the edge of the roof.

Sign. Any device, display, figure, message, painting, placard, structure, or other contrivance, or any part thereof, situated outdoors or indoors, which is designed, constructed, intended, or used to advertise, or to provide data or information in the nature of advertising, to direct or attract attention to a business, event, institution, location, object, person, or service by any means, including colors, designs, figures, fixtures, illumination, letters, projected images, symbols, or words.

Sign area. The entire area within a perimeter defined by a continuous line composed of right angles, not exceeding eight geometrical lines, which enclose the extreme limits of lettering, logo, trademark, or other graphic representation, together with any frame or structural trim forming an integral part of the display used to differentiate the sign from the background against which it is placed.

Sign copy. Any design, figures, graphics, letters, logos, numbers, words, or other symbolic representation incorporated into a sign.

Sign face. See sign area.

Sign program. A coordinated program of one or more signs for an individual business establishment or a business/commercial center.

Sign structure. Any structure which supports or is capable of supporting any sign. A sign structure may or may not be an integral part of a structure. For the purpose of a freestanding sign, the sign structure shall include the aggregate area of the sign, including the sign copy and all structural elements of the sign.

Special event banner/sign. A temporary banner or sign that is intended to inform the public of a

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unique action, happening, occasion, or purpose (e.g., grand opening or community event).

Subdivision directional sign. An off-premise sign providing information on the location of a subdivision whose parcels or units are being offered for lease, rent, or sale.

Subdivision identification sign. An on-premise sign advertising developed or undeveloped real property which has been divided into five or more parcels or units for lease, rent, or sale. (Signs advertising fewer than five parcels shall be treated as "real estate signs".)

Temporary sign. Any sign intended to be displayed for a limited period of time and capable of being viewed from any neighboring property, parking area, or public right-of-way.

Wall sign. A sign which is attached to or painted on the exterior wall of a structure with the display surface of the sign approximately parallel to the wall.

Window area. Window area shall be computed by calculating each windowpane or panel. The area shall be separate for each building face, and for each window. A group of windowpanes or panels may be considered one window if they are adjoining on the building face and are less than six inches apart.

Window sign. Any sign affixed, painted, placed, or posted in or on any window exposed to public view. Also, includes any interior sign which faces any window exposed to public view and which is located within three feet of the window.

The following signs shall be exempt from the requirements of this Zoning Ordinance and applicable specific plans:

• A. Signs, flags, banners, emblems, or notices issued or endorsed by a constituted governmental body, public agency, court, person, or officer in performance of a public duty, including traffic or highway signs, railroad crossing signs or similar regulatory or warning devices and legal notices.

• B. Holiday displays and decorations not exceeding 60 days, but only when not creating a traffic hazard or located within any visual setback area, and in compliance with Section 830.3.060 (Prohibited Signs).

• C. Signs, located inside a structure, courtyard, mall, or other similar structure, provided these signs are not conspicuously visible and readable from a public street or adjacent properties not under the same ownership.

• D. Utility company signs identifying conduits, cables, dangerous conditions, or providing other notices of this type.

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• E. Memorial tablets or signs and historic markers.

The following signs shall be prohibited in all zones:

• A. Signs that endanger the health and safety of operators of motor vehicles on the streets or highways.

• B. Signs located at street intersections that obstruct free and clear vision of operators of motor vehicles.

• C. Sign that interfere with traffic signs, signals, or devices.

• D. Sign that use the words “Stop”, “Danger”, or any other character, phrase, symbol, or word that interferes with, misleads, or confuses operators of motor vehicles.

• E. Blinking, flashing, rotating, or animated signs, except time, temperature, and weather information displays.

• F. No red, green, or amber lights or illuminated signs that could interfere with or be confused with any official traffic control device or traffic signal or official directional guide signs.

• G. Moveable or portable signs, including signs attached to or painted on trailers or vehicles parked on private property for the purpose of gaining unauthorized sign area.

• H. Signs that make sounds.

• I. Banners and flags, but not including those installed and maintained by a governmental or public school organization.

• J. Tethered balloon(s) or other inflatable(s) used to draw attention to a use or event.

• K. Signs with flashing neon elements or signs with neon lighting on their support structures.

• L. Signs that are not effectively shielded to prevent beams or rays of light from being directed on the traveled way, or whose intensity or brilliance cause glare or impair the vision of the driver of a motor vehicle, or that otherwise interfere with drivers of motor vehicles.

• M. A beacon or searchlight, except for emergency purposes.

A. Removal of abandoned signs.

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1. An abandoned sign shall be removed by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located immediately upon closure of the business or the passing of the event.

2. A sign frame or structure that supported an abandoned sign and that conforms to all applicable regulations shall be allowed to remain in place. However, in the event a sign frame or structure is inconsistent with the regulations of this Chapter, the sign structure and/or frame shall be either altered to comply with the regulations of this Chapter, or removed by the owner or lessee of the property.

3. Signs considered by the County to have historic value or cultural significance shall be exempt from this requirement.

4. If the owner or lessee fails to remove the sign, the County, following proper notice, may have the sign removed.

• B. Recovery of costs. When the County is required to remove an abandoned sign, the reasonable cost of the removal and storage may be assessed against the owner of the sign(s) and/or the property owner. If not paid, the applicable costs may be imposed as a tax lien against the property.

A. General provisions.

1. Signs, billboards, and advertising structures. Signs, billboards, and advertising structures may be erected and maintained in the zones where the sign is allowed after having secured approval of the location, size, and design of the sign, billboard, or advertising structure subject to the conditions below and in each zone.

2. Height and location restrictions.

• a. All signs shall meet the height and setback requirements of the zone in which they are located.

• b. Signs shall not extend over a public right-of-way or sidewalk.

3. Sign area calculations.

• a. The area of a sign shall be calculated by multiplying its maximum vertical dimension by its maximum horizontal dimension.

• b. Whenever the area of a sign is limited by this Chapter, a double-faced sign may be erected having the allowed sign area on each side of the sign; provided, the maximum dimension between the two faces of the double faced sign shall not

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exceed 24 inches or 10 percent of the maximum dimension of the face of the sign, whichever is the lesser.

B. Lighting, sound, and movement restrictions.

1. No sign shall endanger the health and safety of operators of motor vehicles on the streets or highways.

2. Lights used to illuminate signs shall be so installed as to concentrate the illumination on the sign and so as to minimize glare upon a public street or abutting property.

3. No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of operators of motor vehicles.

4. No sign shall be located where, by reason of the position, shape or color, it may interfere with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device.

5. No sign may make use of the words “Stop”, “Danger”, or any other word, phrase, symbol or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic.

6. Blinkers, flashing, unusual lighting or other means of animation which cause unsafe distractions shall not be permitted on any sign.

7. All signs in or adjacent to “C-P" or “R” Districts shall be non-flashing and nonanimated. This restriction shall not apply when the flashing or animation conveys time, temperature or weather information.

A. Freestanding pole signs.

1. Unless otherwise specified by this Chapter, a maximum of one freestanding pole sign shall be allowed on each parcel, on each street frontage.

2. No part of a freestanding pole sign, including the footing, shall be located closer than one foot away from an interior property line and from the right-of-way of a street or highway adjoining the parcel on which the sign is located.

3. When a freestanding pole sign is located within a front or street side setback area, the sign shall be constructed to provide a clear open area of at least eight feet in height, measured from grade to the bottom of the sign face.

4. Freestanding pole signs shall not have more than two posts or columns, each with a width or diameter no greater than 12 inches that are located within a street front or side setback area.

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B. Freestanding monument signs.

1. A freestanding monument sign may be substituted for a freestanding pole sign allowed by the provisions of this Chapter or an applicable plan, provided the monument sign complies with the provisions of this Chapter.

2. The maximum height of a freestanding monument sign located within a front or street side setback area shall be the height of an allowed wall or fence located in the same setback area.

3. Freestanding monument signs shall not interfere with a driver’s line of sight and shall not be closer than one foot from the right-of-way, unless otherwise specified in an applicable zone.

• C. Painted signs. Signs may be painted upon the surface of a structure provided, that when the sign is located so as to face a residential zone, the sign and the method of lighting the sign, if any, shall be subject to a Director’s Review and Approval in compliance with Chapter 846.5.

D. Vertical signs.

1. Any vertical (or projecting wall) sign with its advertising surface at or approximately at right angle to a wall facing a street shall be deemed to be a vertical sign and shall not exceed 18 inches in thickness. Any “V” shaped projecting sign shall also be deemed to be a vertical sign and shall not exceed 18 inches in thickness at its farthest projection from the structure, nor four feet in thickness at the face of the structure. Thickness for the purpose of this requirement is the distance between the two faces of the sign.

2. When the bottom of a sign is at least eight feet but less than 10 feet above the ground, the projection over the property line abutting the street line shall not exceed one foot.

3. When the bottom of the sign is at least 10 feet but less than 12 feet above the ground, the projection over the property line abutting the street line shall not exceed two feet six inches.

4. When the bottom of the sign is at least 12 feet but less than 14 feet above the ground, the projection over the property line abutting the street line shall not exceed three feet.

5. When the bottom of the sign is at least 14 feet but less than 16 feet above the ground, the projection over the property line abutting the street line shall not exceed four feet.

6. When the bottom of the sign is 16 feet or more above the ground, the projection over the property line abutting the street line shall not exceed five feet.

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7. No sign shall exceed five feet four inches in height above the parapet wall, except that the sign may be constructed to return over the roof not exceeding 10 feet measured from the edge of the sign.

• E. Flat signs. Signs painted or mounted on the face, side, or rear of a structure shall not exceed a total amount of two times the area allowed for vertical signs. Not more than one 150 square feet of total sign area shall be allowed on any one structure wall.

F. Marquee signs.

1. Signs may be placed on the outer faces of a marquee if they are made a part of the marquee and do not exceed the Building Codes limitations on marquees.

2. No sign shall be hung from the underside of a marquee unless it meets the minimum height limitations applicable to a marquee. No signs shall be placed on the roof of a marquee.

3. All wall or projecting signs placed above a marquee shall comply with the requirements for the signs as if no marquee existed.

G. Off-site directional signs.

1. Off-site directional signs in residential and agricultural zones for major recreational uses, hospitals, and colleges shall be allowed only for the following uses and shall be subject to the property development standards of the zone and the special standards specified in this Subsection:

   • a. Colleges as defined in Article 7 (Definitions).

   • b. Golf courses

   • c. Hospitals which provide 24-hour emergency medical services.

   • d. Recreation parks with facilities for one or more activities (e.g., boating, camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, picnicking, and swimming)

   • e. Stadiums with an average attendance of 1,000 or more persons per event.

2. Signing for golf courses, recreation parks, and stadia shall be allowed for a maximum of five years from the date the original approval becomes final. A reapplication shall be allowed subject to the approval of a Director’s Review and Approval in compliance with Chapter 846.5.

3. The directional signs shall be located only along expressways and arterial roadways as shown on the adopted General Plan Circulation Element.

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4. There shall be not more than two directional signs and the signs shall be allowed only when the Director has determined that there is a potential for confusion in direction and that a sign is necessary for the public convenience and safety.

5. Directional signs shall:

• a. Not exceed 32 square feet in area, including architectural features, and shall not exceed eight feet in height;

  - b. Not be internally illuminated or floodlighted, but may use reflective materials; 
  
  - c. Limited to two colors as allowed under the State of California Uniform Sign Chart; and 
  
  - d. Set back not less than eight feet from property lines and located outside of the public road right-of-way. 
  

  6. If in the event of a change in land use relationships whereby the placement of a sign creates a traffic hazard as determined by the Director, the sign shall be removed or relocated and the Director’s Review and Approval Permit shall be deemed void.

• H. Institutional signs. Signs for institutional uses including colleges, hospitals, places of assembly (e.g., places of worship), private clubs, rest homes, and similar uses shall be allowed in any zone in which they are listed as an allowed use subject to the following regulations:

1. One free-standing sign for each main use per frontage:

• a. The sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area exclusive of architectural features. The sign structures shall not exceed eight feet in height.

• b. The sign face shall not be internally illuminated but may be floodlighted.

• c. Signs shall be set back a minimum of 15 feet from public rights-of-way; however, this setback may be reduced to 10 feet subject to approval of a Conditional Use Permit in compliance with Chapter 842.5. In no case shall signs be located within required rear or interior side yards.

• One sign attached to the face of the main structure:

• a. Letter or numerical heights shall not exceed one foot.

• b. The sign shall not exceed 10 square feet in area.

• c. The sign face shall not be internally illuminated but may be floodlighted.

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3. One reader board sign:

   • a. The sign shall not exceed 10 square feet in area.

   • b. The board shall not be internally illuminated but may be floodlighted.

• I. Window display signs. Window display signs shall not exceed 25 percent of the window area on which the sign is placed.

J. Name plates.

1. Name plates shall be allowed in residential zones, only when approved for a home occupation, and shall not exceed two square feet in area.

2. Name plates shall be allowed for mobile home park services subject to the following conditions. They shall:

   • a. Be located on the face of the structure in which the activity is located;

   • b. Not exceed two square feet in area;

   • c. Be unlighted except that name signs which are not visible from abutting properties or public rights-of-way may be lighted, provided the lighting does not reflect upon surrounding mobile homes;

   • d. Be limited to one name plate for each approved service rendered.

K. Real estate and subdivision signs.

1. Subdivision signs – temporary on-site.

• a. Temporary real estate signs advertising real property which has been subdivided for purposes of sale or lease shall be allowed, subject to the following conditions:

  • (1) The construction of any sign shall be in strict compliance with the provisions of this Chapter and all other laws of the County.

  • (2) The sign shall remain only as long as some portion of the property advertised for sale remains unsold, or for a period of two years from the recordation of the Final Map, whichever period is shorter. Subject to Director Review and Approval in compliance with Chapter 846.5, the time may be extended for one year. Not more than two extensions may be granted.

  • (3) The signs shall be located on the premises which they advertise.

  • (4) No sign shall exceed 480 square feet in area.

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• (5) Not more than two signs per subdivision shall be allowed in any subdivision less than 40 acres in size. In subdivisions involving more than 40 acres, one additional sign shall be allowed for each additional 20 acres.

• b. Identification signs containing the tract name are allowed, provided there are no more than one sign for each three parcels. Signs shall not exceed four square feet in area.

• c. Signs are allowed on the same parcel with a model home, provided they do not exceed four in number and 10 square feet each in area. Signs shall be removed after the developer concludes the initial sale of the parcels or homes to their initial owners.

• d. “For Rent” and “For Sale” signs shall be allowed.

2. Subdivision signs – temporary off-site.

• a. Temporary real estate directional signs, subject to Conditional Use Permit approval in compliance with Chapter 842.5, directing prospective purchasers to a subdivision having parcels or houses for sale may be erected and maintained, provided the signs do not adversely affect the use or appearance of existing structures or landscaping and do not create hazardous traffic conditions. The signs will be subject to the following standards:

  • (1) The sign shall not exceed 160 square feet in area.

  • (2) The sign shall be set back a minimum of eight feet from the front property line.

  • (3) The sign shall be not less than six nor more than 18 feet above the crown of the nearest adjacent road or the higher of the two crowns of two adjacent roads.

• b. Temporary open house signs are allowed for a period of 48 hours, provided the sign is limited to a double-faced sign not more than two by three feet in size.

L. Identification signs.

1. Identification signs for multi-family dwellings shall be allowed subject to the following conditions:

   • a. One freestanding or face-mounted sign shall be allowed.

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• b. The sign shall be a maximum of 12 square feet in area, including architectural features. Larger signs, not exceeding 25 square feet may be allowed subject to a Director Review and Approval in compliance with Chapter 846.5.

  • c. The sign face shall not be internally illuminated but may be floodlighted.

2. Signs shall be allowed in the "T-P" Zone which advertises the mobile home park. The signs shall be located on the premises and shall not exceed one square foot of sign face for each front foot of the frontage along the street serving as access to the mobile home park, provided, however, that there shall be a maximum area for signs for any one mobile home park of 100 square feet of sign on any one frontage.

M. Agricultural signs.

1. On-site sales signs. One sign for each street frontage, sign area not exceeding 40 square feet in area for each street frontage sign, and pertain only to services or products available for sale on the premises.

2. Off-site freestanding produce sales signs. Off-site freestanding signs for produce stands shall be allowed subject to the following conditions:

• a. Produce stand directional signs:

  • (1) The number of signs shall be limited to two per each use. Produce stands located on properties adjacent to intersections shall be allowed a maximum of four signs.

  • (2) Each sign shall not exceed 40 square feet in area, exclusive of architectural features, or 12 feet in height.

  • (3) Internally illuminated or floodlighted signs shall be prohibited, but reflective materials may be used.

  • (4) The signs shall be located within 2,500 feet of the produce stand structure.

  • (5) Each sign shall be located a minimum of 10 feet from the paved portion of the adjacent road and outside of the public road rights-of-way. In no instance shall signs be located within required rear or interior side yards.

  • (6) Signs are prohibited in corner cut-off areas, the locations of which are described in Subsection 822.3.100.E. For purposes of establishing corner cutoff areas, the property line shall be considered to be not less than 30 feet from the centerline of the adjacent roadway.

  • (8) Before any sign is erected on any parcel, a site plan shall have been submitted to and approved.

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b. Temporary produce stand approach signs.

  - (1) The number of signs shall be limited to two along each public roadway to which the produce stand has direct access. 

  - (2) Each sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area, exclusive of architectural features. The sign shall not exceed 10 feet in height. 

  - (3) Internally illuminated or floodlighted signs shall be prohibited, but reflective materials may be used. 

  - (4) The signs shall be located within 1,300 feet of the produce stand structure.

• (5) Each sign shall be located a minimum of 10 feet from the paved portion of the adjacent road and outside of the public road rights-of-way. In no instance shall signs be located within required rear or interior side yards.

  - (6) The signs shall be prohibited in corner cut-off areas, the location of which are described in Section 822.3.090. For purposes of establishing corner cut-off areas, the property line shall be considered to be not less than 30 feet from the centerline of the adjacent roadway. 
  

  3. Rental Signs. “For Rent" and "For Sale” signs shall be permitted.

  4. Signs for Specific Uses. Signs for institutional uses including churches, hospitals, rest homes, private clubs and similar uses shall be permitted subject to the provisions of Section 830.3.080 and Section 830.3.090 A through L above. Off-site directional signs for major recreational uses, hospitals, and colleges permitted under shall be subject to the provisions of Section 830.3.080 and Section 830.3.090 A through L above.

• N. Temporary off-site political signs. A temporary off-site political sign shall be allowed in any zone subject to the following limitations:

  1. Political signs shall be removed within 30 days following the election.

  2. Political signs shall have a maximum area of eight square feet in residential zones, and 32 square feet in other zones, unless the sign is an on-site sign (e.g., campaign headquarters, etc.) or is an off-site sign allowed by this Chapter.

  3. Political signs shall not be erected within a street intersection, clear sight triangle, or at a location where the sign may interfere with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with an authorized traffic sign.

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4. Political signs shall not be nailed or affixed to a tree, fence post, or public utility pole and shall not be located in the public right-of-way, parkway, or on publicly owned land.

Table 3-10-1 Agricultural Signs

Specific Agricultural Sign Standards by District:

AE, AL and A-2 Districts:

For those uses permitted in the AE, AL and A-2 Districts, the sign standards of 830.3.090 shall apply.

A-1 District:

For those uses permitted in the A-1 District, the sign standards of 830.3.090 shall apply, except that no advertising structure that is visible from the right of way of any freeway or parkway shall be located within five hundred (500) feet of the centerline of such freeway or parkway.

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February 2024

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Table 3-10-2 Residential Signs

Specific Residential Sign Standards by District:

RA and RR Zone Districts

1. Name plates shall be permitted subject to the following conditions:

• a. Name plates shall not exceed two (2) square feet in area.

• b. Name plates shall display only the:

  • (1) Name of the premises upon which it is displayed,

  • (2) Name of the owner or lessee of said premises,

  • (3) Address of said premises, and

  • (4) Nature of the home occupation engaged in on said premises.

2. "For Rent" and "For Sale" Signs shall be permitted,

3. Subdivision Signs - On Site

• a. Temporary real estate signs advertising real property which has been subdivided for purposes of sale or lease shall be permitted, subject to the following conditions:

  • (1) The construction of any sign shall be in strict compliance with the provisions of this Division and all other laws of the County.

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• (2) The sign shall remain only as long as some portion of the property advertised for sale remains unsold, or for a period of two (2) years from the recordation of the Final Map whichever period is shorter. Subject to Director Review and Approval, said time may be extended for one (1) year. Not more than two (2) such extensions may be granted.

• (3) The signs shall be located on the premises which they advertise.

• (4) No sign shall exceed four hundred eighty (480) square feet in area.

• (5) Not more than two (2) such signs per subdivision shall be permitted in any subdivision under forty (40) acres in size. In subdivisions involving more than forty (40) acres, one (1) additional sign shall be permitted for each additional twenty (20) acres.

• b. Identification signs containing the tract name are permitted, provided there shall be no more than one (1) such sign for each three (3) lots. Said sign shall not exceed four (4) square feet in area.

• c. Signs are permitted on the same lot with a model home provided they do not exceed four (4) in number and ten (10) square feet each in area. Said signs shall be removed after the developer concludes the initial sale of the lots or homes to their initial owners.

4. Off-Site Subdivision Signs - Temporary real estate directional signs, subject to Chapter 842.5 (Conditional Use Permits), directing prospective purchasers to a subdivision having lots or houses for sale may be erected and maintained provided said signs do not adversely affect the use or appearance of existing buildings or landscaping and do not create hazardous traffic conditions. Such signs will be subject to the following standards:

• a. The sign shall not exceed one hundred sixty (160) square feet in area.

• b. The sign shall be set back not less than eight (8) feet from the front property line.

• c. The sign shall be not less than six (6) nor more than eighteen (18) feet above the crown of the nearest adjacent road or the higher of the two crowns of two adjacent roads.

5. Temporary off-site open house signs shall be permitted for a period of forty-eight (48) hours provided that the sign shall be limited to a double-faced sign not more than two (2) by three (3) feet in size.

6. Signs for institutional uses including churches, hospitals, rest homes, private clubs and similar uses shall be permitted subject to the provisions of Sections 830.3.080 and 830.3.090.

7. Off-site directional signs for major recreational uses, hospitals and colleges permitted shall be subject to the provisions of Sections 830.3.080 and 830.3.090.

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February 2024

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R-1-A, R-1-AH, R-1-B, R-1-C, R-1-E, R-1-EH and R-1 Zone Districts

1. Name plates shall be permitted subject to the following conditions:

• a. Name plates shall not exceed two (2) square feet in area.

• b. Name plates shall display only the:

  • (1) Name of the premises upon which it is displayed.

• (2) Name of the owner or lessee of said premises.

  • (3) Address of said premises.

  • (4) Nature of the home occupation engaged in on said premises.

2. "For Rent" and "For Sale" Signs shall be permitted. Not more than two (2) such signs, not exceeding a total of six (6) square feet in area, shall be permitted on any lot or parcel.

3. Subdivision Signs- On Site

• a. Temporary real estate signs advertising real property which has been subdivided for purposes of sale or lease shall be permitted, subject to the following conditions:

  • (1) The construction of any sign shall be in strict compliance with the provisions of this Division and all other laws of the County.

  • (2) The sign shall remain only as long as some portion of the property advertised for sale remains unsold, or for a period of two (2) years whichever period is shorter. Subject to Director Review and Approval, said time may be extended for one (1) year. Not more than two (2) such extensions may be granted.

  • (3) The signs shall be located on the premises which they advertise.

  • (4) No sign shall exceed four hundred eighty (480) square feet in area.

  • (5) Not more than two (2) such signs shall be permitted in any subdivision under forty (40) acres in size. In subdivisions involving more than forty (40) acres, one (1) additional sign shall be permitted for each additional twenty (20) acres.

• b. Identification signs containing the tract name are permitted, provided there shall be no more than one (1) such sign for each three (3) lots. Said signs shall not exceed four (4) square feet in area.

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February 2024

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• c. Signs are permitted on the same lot with a model home provided they do not exceed four (4) in number and ten (10) square feet each in area. Said signs shall be removed after the developer concludes the initial sales of the lots or homes to their initial owners.

4. Off Site Subdivision Signs Temporary Real Estate Directional Signs

Temporary real estate directional signs, subject to Chapter 842.5 (Conditional Use Permits), directing prospective purchasers to a subdivision having lots or houses for sale may be erected and maintained provided said signs do not create hazardous traffic conditions. Such signs shall be subject to the following standards:

• a. The sign shall not exceed one hundred sixty (160) square feet in area.

• b. The sign shall be set back not less than eight (8) feet from the front property line.

• c. The sign shall be not less than six (6) nor more than eighteen (18) feet above the crown of the nearest adjacent road or the higher of the two crowns of two adjacent roads.

5. Temporary Off Site Open Houses Signs shall be permitted for a period of forty-eight (48) hours provided that the sign shall be limited to a double-faced sign not more than two (2) by three (3) feet in size.

6. Signs for institutional uses including churches, hospitals, rest homes, private clubs and similar uses shall be permitted subject to the provisions of Sections 830.3.080 and 830.3.090.

7. Off-site directional signs for major recreational uses, hospitals and colleges permitted under Section 822.2 shall be subject to the provisions of Sections 830.3.080 and 830.3.090.

R-2-A, R-2-A, R-3, R-3-A and R-4 Zone Districts

1. The provisions of the "R 1 A" District Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, shall apply.

2. Identification signs for Multiple Family Dwellings shall be permitted subject to the following conditions:

• a. One freestanding or face mounted sign will be allowed.

• b. The sign shall contain only the name and/or address of the premises on which it is located.

• c. The sign shall be a maximum of twelve (12) square feet in area, including architectural features. Larger signs, not exceeding twenty-five (25) square feet may be permitted subject to Chapter 846.5 (Director Review and Approval).

• d.

• The sign face shall not be internally illuminated but may be floodlighted.

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February 2024

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T-P Zone District

1. Signs shall be permitted in the "T P" District which advertise the Mobile home park. Said signs shall be located on the premises and shall not exceed one (1) square foot of said sign for each front foot of the frontage along the street serving as access to the Mobile home park, provided, however, that there shall be a maximum area for signs for anyone (1) Mobile home park of one hundred (100) square feet of sign on any one (1) frontage.

2. Name plates shall be permitted for Mobile home park services subject to the following conditions. They shall:

• a. Be located on the face of the building in which the activity is located.

• b. Not exceed two (2) square feet in area.

• c. Be unlighted except that name signs which are not visible from abutting properties or public rights of way may be lighted, provided such lighting does not reflect upon surrounding mobile homes.

• d. Identify only the name of the operator and the service rendered.

• e. Be limited to one (1) name plate for each approved service rendered.

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February 2024

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Table 3-10-3 Commercial Signs

Specific Commercial Sign Standards by District:

AC Zone District

Signs may be permitted in the "AC" District under the conditions set forth in the following paragraphs.

1. General Requirements

No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of operators of motor vehicles, or at any location where, it may interfere with, obstruct the vision of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal, or device; or which makes use of the words "STOP," "DANGER," or any other word, phrase, symbol, or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.

2. Permitted Signs

   • a. Signs indicating the name and nature of the occupancy, the name and address of the building, or the name and address of the owner. Time, temperature, and weather information may also be included. These signs shall be attached to the building in which the occupancy is located.

   • b. "For Rent" or "For Sale" signs posted on the subject lot or building by the owner or his authorized agent. Said signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area and there shall be not more than two (2) such signs for any one (1) lot, building, or occupancy.

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• c. Directional signs related to the location of buildings or activities on the property on which the signs are located. Each directional sign shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area.

• d. One free standing sign per lot subject to the following regulations:

  • (1) The sign shall contain thereon only the name of the buildings, occupants or groups thereof. Time, temperature, and weather information may also be included. (Amended by Ord. 490.199 adopted 4 21 80)

  • (2) The sign shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet of area.

  • (3) The sign shall not exceed twenty (20) feet in height.

3. Location

No requirements.

4. Lighting

   • a. No red, green, or amber lights or illuminated signs may be placed in such position that they could reasonably be expected to interfere with or be confused with any official traffic control device or traffic signal or official directional guide signs.

• b. No blinking, flashing, rotating or animating signs shall be permitted on the exterior of any building in the District, except to display time, temperature, and weather information.

  • c. Lights used to illuminate signs shall be so installed as to concentrate the illumination on the sign so as to minimize glare upon a public street or adjacent property.

C-P Zone District

1. The provisions of the "C 1" District, shall apply to the principal non-residential use.

2. For other permitted uses, the provisions of the R-1-A" District, Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, shall apply.

C-R Zone District

The sign standards of the “C-2" District and the sign standards of 830.3.040 shall apply to all land and structures.

C-1 Zone District

1. The following signs shall be permitted:

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• a. Signs indicating the name and nature of the occupancy or the name and address of the building or the name and the address of the owner. Time, temperature, and weather information may be included. These signs shall be attached to the building in which the occupancy is located.

• b. "For Rent" or "For Sale" signs posted on the subject lot or building by the owner or his authorized agent. Said signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area and there shall be not more than two (2) such signs for any one (1) lot, building or occupancy.

• c. Directional signs related to the location of buildings or activities on the property on which the signs are located. Each directional sign shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area.

• d. One free standing sign subject to the following regulations:

• (1) The sign shall contain thereon only the name of the building, occupants or groups thereof. Time, temperature, and weather information may also be included.

• (2) The sign shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet in area.

• (3) The sign shall not exceed twenty (20) feet in height.

2. The following regulations shall apply to signs for each occupancy:

   • a. A sign may not exceed one (1) square foot in area for each front foot of the structure or portion of the structure wherein the pertaining use is conducted, or one half (2) square foot of sign for each front foot of the lot upon which the structure is located. The total sign area per commercial use may not exceed one hundred (100) square feet for each building frontage. The minimum sign area for occupancy need not be less than forty (40) square feet.

   • b. Building frontage to be used in calculating the permitted sign area shall include frontage whereon a public entrance to the occupancy is located. Separate calculations may be made for front, side and rear entrances and separate signs may be erected on each of these building frontages.

   • c. Signs shall not extend over a public sidewalk or right of way. All faces of signs mounted on or attached to a building shall be parallel to the face of the building except that "fin" type signs shall be permitted in connection with automobile service stations.

• d. No blinking, flashing, rotating or animated signs shall be permitted on the exterior of any building in this District, except to display time, temperature, and weather information.

  • e. In cases where the store has a rear parking lot, signs may be located on the side or rear of the building and shall be developed to the same standards as are required in the front

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February 2024

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of said store, provided, however, that said signs shall not be lighted in such manner as to be disturbing to the abutting residential district and such lighting shall be terminated not later than 9:30 P.M.

• f. Lights used to illuminate signs or advertising structures shall be so installed as to concentrate the illumination on the sign or advertising structure and so as to minimize glare upon a public street or adjacent property.

3. Signs may be placed on the roof of buildings but may not exceed the permitted building height in this district.

C-2 Zone District

The sign provisions of the "C 1" District above shall apply, with the following exception:

Free standing signs provided that one (1) free standing sign for each street frontage shall be allowed subject to the following regulation:

• a. The sign shall contain thereon only the name of the buildings, occupants or groups thereof. Time, temperature, and weather information may also be included.

• b. The sign shall not exceed one hundred fifty (150) square feet in area.

• c. The sign shall not exceed thirty-five (35) feet in height.

C-3 Zone District

1. General Requirements

   • a. No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of operators of motor vehicles, 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, signal or device, or which makes use of the words "STOP," "DANGER," or any other word, phrase, symbol of character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic.

   • b. Signs shall not extend over a public sidewalk or right of way. All faces of signs mounted on, or attached to a building shall be parallel to the face of the building except that "fin" type signs shall be permitted in connection with automobile service stations.

   • c. Signs may be placed on the roofs of buildings but may not exceed the permitted building heights in this District.

2. Location, Height and Number

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• a. No sign shall be located within fifty (50) feet of the boundary line between a "C 3" District and a residential district, when such sign faces said residential district.

• b. Free standing signs located within one hundred (100) feet of an abutting residential district, having a common property line with the C 3 District, shall not exceed the height limit of that residential district.

• c. There shall be permitted one free standing sign for each one hundred fifty (150) feet of street frontage. Directional signs of less than four (4) feet in height shall not be subject to this limitation.

  • d. Free standing signs shall not block the motorists' view of another proprietor's free standing sign from a distance of two hundred (200) feet in either direction along the frontage.

  • e. The relationship of all proposed signs shall be established by the applicant's submittal of:

  • 1. A plot plan showing the location of all existing free standing signs and the proposed sign's location.
  • 2. Photographs of the proposed location taken from an approaching traffic lane at points two hundred (200) feet distant in each direction along the frontage.
  • 3. A rendering of the proposed sign indicating coloring, height and dimensions.

3. Size - No requirements.

4. Lighting

   • a. No red, green or amber lights or illuminated signs may be placed in such positions that they could reasonably be expected to interfere with or be confused with any official traffic control device or traffic signal or official directional guide signs.

   • b. Lights used to illuminate signs shall be so installed as to concentrate the illumination on the sign and so as to minimize glare upon a public street or adjacent property.

C-4 Zone District

1. General Requirements

No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of operators of motor vehicles, 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, signal or device; or which makes use of the words

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"STOP," "DANGER," or any other word, phrase, symbol or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic.

2. Location

For signs within fifty (50) feet of a property line which is the boundary between a "C" District and a residential district, all the sign provisions of the "C 1" District shall apply.

3. Size

No regulations.

4. Lighting

   • a. No red, green or amber lights or illuminated signs may be placed in such positions that they reasonably can be expected to interfere with or be confused with any official traffic control device or traffic signal or official directional guide signs.

   • b. Lights used to illuminate signs or advertising structures shall be so installed as to concentrate the illumination on the sign or advertising structure and so as to minimize glare upon a public street or adjacent property.

C-6 Zone District

1. General Requirements

No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of operators of motor vehicles, 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, signal or device; or which makes use of the words "STOP," "DANGER," or any other word, phrase, symbol or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic.

2. Location

No sign shall be located within fifty (50) feet of the boundary line between a “C-6” District and a residential district.

3. Size

No requirements.

4. Lighting

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• a. No red, green or amber lights or illuminated signs may be placed in such positions that they reasonably can be expected to interfere with or be confused with any official traffic control device or traffic signal or official directional guide signs.

• b. Lights used to illuminate signs or advertising structures shall be so installed as to concentrate the illumination on the sign or advertising structure and so as to minimize glare upon a public street or adjacent property.

RCC Zone District

1. General Requirements

No sign shall be erected at the intersection of the streets in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of operators of motor vehicles, or at any location where, it may interfere with, obstruct the vision of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device; or which makes use of the words, "STOP," "DANGER," or any other word, phrase, symbol, or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.

2. Permitted Signs

   • a. Signs indicating the name and nature of the occupancy or the name and address of the building or the name and address of the owner. Time, temperature, and weather information may also be included. These signs shall be attached to the building in which the occupancy is located. All faces or signs mounted on or attached to a building shall be parallel to the face of the building except that "fin" type signs shall be permitted in connection with automobile service stations.

Such sign may not exceed one (1) square foot in area for each front foot of the structure wherein the pertaining use is conducted, or one half (2) square foot of sign for each front foot of the lot upon which the structure is located. The total sign area per commercial use may not exceed one hundred (100) square feet, for each building frontage. The minimum sign area for occupancy need not be less than forty (40) square feet.

• b. "For Rent" or "For Sale" signs posted on the subject lot or building by the owner or his authorized agent. Said signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area and there shall be not more than two (2) such signs for any one (1) lot, building, or occupancy.

• c. Directional signs related to the location of buildings or activities on the property on which the signs are located. Each directional sign shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area.

• d. One free standing sign per lot subject to the following regulations:

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• (1) The sign shall contain thereon only the name of the buildings, occupants, or groups thereof. Time, temperature, and weather information may also be included.

• (2) The sign shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet of area.

• (3) The sign shall not exceed twenty (20) feet in height.

3. Location

No requirements excepting that signs shall not extend over a public sidewalk or right of way.

4. Lighting

   • a. No red, green, or amber lights or illuminated signs may be placed in such position that they could reasonably be expected to interfere with or be confused with any official traffic control device or traffic signal or official directional guide signs.

   • b. No blinking, flashing, rotating, or animated signs shall be permitted on the exterior of any building in the District, except to display time, temperature, and weather information.

   • c. Lights used to illuminate signs shall be so installed as to concentrate the illumination on the sign so as to minimize glare upon a public street or adjacent property.

R-P Zone District

1. The following signs shall be permitted for non-residential uses.

   • a. One (1) free standing sign subject to the following regulations:

   • (1) The sign shall contain thereon only the name of the buildings, occupants, or groups thereof.

   • (2) The sign shall not exceed fifteen (15) square feet in area.

   • (3) The sign shall not exceed six (6) feet in height.

   • b. One (1) sign, attached to the face of the building, subject to the following regulations:

   • (1) The sign shall indicate only the name and address of the building or group of buildings, provided that, the sign may also contain the name of the occupant or groups thereof if a free standing sign is not located on the lot.

   • (2) The letter or numeral height shall not exceed one (1) foot.

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• c. Name plates not exceeding two (2) square feet in area. Name plates shall display only:

• (1) The name of the occupant.

• (2) Suite or office number.

• (3) The nature of the services rendered upon the premises.

• d. "For Rent" or "For Sale" signs posted on the subject lot or building by the owner or his authorized agent. Said signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area and there shall be not more than two (2) such signs for any one (1) lot, building or occupancy.

2. The following regulations shall apply to all signs permitted in the R P District:

   • a. All faces of signs attached to a building shall be parallel to the face of the building.

• b. No blinking, flashing, rotating or animated signs shall be permitted in the R P District.

  • c. Lights used to illuminate signs shall be so installed as to concentrate the illumination on the sign or advertising structure and so as to minimize glare upon a public street or adjacent property.

  • d. No sign shall be placed on the roof of any building or structure in the R P District.

3. For other permitted uses, the sign provisions of the "R 1 A" District, Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, shall apply.

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Table 3-10-4 Industrial Signs

Specific Industrial Sign Standards by District:

C-M Zone District

The sign provisions of the "M 1" District below shall apply.

M-1 Zone District

Signs and advertising structures may be permitted in the "M-1" District under the conditions set forth in the following paragraphs:

1. General Requirements

No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of operators of motor vehicles, or at any location where, by reason of the position, shape or color, it may interfere with, obstruct the visions of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device; or which makes use of the words "STOP" “DANGER" or any other word, phrase, symbol or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic.

2. Location

No sign shall be located within fifty (50) feet of the boundary line between an "M-1" District and a residential district when such sign or advertising structure faces said residential district.

3. Size

   • No requirements.

4. Lighting

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• a. No red, green or amber lights or illuminated signs may be placed in such position that they could reasonably be expected to interfere with or be confused with any official traffic control device or traffic signal or official directional guide signs.

• b. Lights used to illuminate signs or advertising structures shall be so installed as to concentrate the illumination on the sign or advertising structure and so as to minimize glare upon a public street or adjacent property.

M-2 Zone District

The sign provisions of the "M 1" District above shall apply.

M-3 Zone District

The sign provisions of the "M 1" District above shall apply except that advertising structures shall be limited seventy-five (75) feet in height.

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Table 3-10-4 Special Purpose Zones

Specific Sign Standards for Special Purpose Zones:

O Zone District

1. Signs shall be permitted subject to the following standards:

   • a. No sign shall endanger the health and safety by causing distractions to operators of motor vehicles on the streets or highways, nor shall any sign be designed and located so as to be confused with traffic signs and signals.

   • b. The sign shall advertise only the name of the operation, simple directions to its location, and slogan, if any.

   • c. The sign shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet in area.

   • d. The sign shall be set back not less than five (5) feet from the street or highway right of way.

   • e. Signs shall not exceed the permitted building height in this district.

   • f. Signs shall be located at intervals of not less than one half (2) mile, provided, however, that this shall not be so interpreted to prohibit neighboring property owners or lessees located at less than one half (2) mile intervals from erecting permitted signs on each property.

P Zone District

No sign, billboard or advertising structure, other than those referring to sponsorship, availability and charges for parking spaces, shall be permitted.

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Chapter 828.3

1. One (1) sign for each entrance to a parking facility shall be permitted provided that said sign shall not exceed one (1) square foot of area for each one (1) lineal foot of street frontage upon the subject lot, and further provided that no single sign shall exceed one hundred (100) square feet in area.

2. Exit signs, not to exceed six (6) square feet in area shall be permitted at each exit from said parking lot to any abutting street or alley.

R-C Zone District

The sign requirements of "O" District above shall apply.

R-E Zone District

1. One non-flashing sign containing not more than forty (40) square feet and pertaining only to products for sale upon the premises or services rendered thereon or therefrom, shall be permitted in this District for each street frontage.

2. Name signs shall be permitted subject to the following conditions:

Name signs shall display only the:

• a. Name of the premises upon which it is displayed;

• b. Name of the owner, lessee of said premises;

• c. Address of said premises; and

• d. Nature of occupation engaged in on said premises.

3. "For Rent" and "For Sale" signs shall be permitted. Not more than two (2) such signs, not exceeding a total of six (6) square feet in area, shall be permitted on any lot or parcel.

RS Zone District

1. General Requirements

No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in such manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of operators of motor vehicles, or at any location where it may interfere with, obstruct the vision of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device; or which makes use of the words, "STOP," "DANGER," or any other word, phrase, symbol, or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.

2. Permitted Signs

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Chapter 828.3

• a. Signs indicating the name and nature of the occupancy, the name and address of the building, or the name and address of the owner. Time, temperature, and weather information may also be included. These signs shall be attached to the building in which the occupancy is located.

• b. "For Rent" or "For Sale" signs posted on the subject lot or building by the owner or his authorized agent. Said signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area and there shall be not more than two (2) such signs for any one (1) lot, building, or occupancy.

• c. One free standing sign per lot, as provided for in this District, devoted to nonresidential uses subject to a Director Review and Approval and to the following regulations:

  • (1) The sign shall contain thereon only the name of the buildings, occupants or groups thereof. Time, temperature, and weather information may also be included.

  • (2) The sign shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet of area.

  • (3) The sign shall not exceed twenty (20) feet in height.

  • (4) The sign shall not be within or extend to within five (5) feet of any property line nor to within fifty (50) feet of a residence on an abutting property.

3. Lighting

   • a. No red, green, or amber lights or illuminated signs may be placed in such position that they could reasonably be expected to interfere with or be confused with any official traffic control device, traffic signal, or official directional guide sign.

   • b. No blinking, flashing, rotating or animated signs shall be permitted on the exterior of any building in the District, except to display time, temperature, or weather information.

• c. Lights used to illuminate signs shall be so installed as to concentrate the illumination on the sign so as to minimize glare upon a public street or adjacent property.

TPZ Zone District

The sign requirements of "O" District above shall apply.

Overlay/Combining Zones

Refer to specific sign standards in Chapter 818.2

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Parking and Loading Standards

• A. Amortization of nonconforming signs. Nonconforming signs shall be removed or altered to be conforming as provided below.

  1. Legal nonconforming on-site signs that are located in an agricultural or residential zone shall be removed from the site without any compensation (i.e., financial or otherwise) after the expiration of 15 years from the date the sign became nonconforming. Upon the expiration of the amortization period, the sign shall be an illegal use subject to immediate removal. Nonconforming on-site signs that are also illegal signs (i.e., never obtained the required permits) shall be removed immediately from the site without any compensation.

  2. Legal nonconforming commercial signs and billboards existing at the time this Zoning Ordinance became effective may be continued, although the use does not conform with these provisions, provided these nonconforming signs and billboards and their supporting structures shall be completely removed by their owners, unless made to fully conform to the provisions of this Chapter, no later than five years following the effective date of this Zoning Ordinance.

  3. Legal nonconforming off-site sign displays located in an area designated on the General Plan and designated as either agricultural or residential and located more than 660 feet from the edge of the right-of-way of a freeway or primary highway, that have copy not visible or intended to be read from the freeway or primary highway, shall be removed from the site without compensation in compliance with the following schedule. This amortization period shall commence upon receipt of written notice of nonconformance.

Table 3-11

Fair Market Value and Amortization Period

4. The Building Official shall determine the fair market value in compliance with the latest material valuation schedules and send notice of the determined value to the owner. Disagreement over the value shall be resolved under the appeal procedures identified in this Zoning Ordinance. Upon the expiration of the appeal period, the sign shall be an illegal use, subject to immediate removal.

• B. Continuance of nonconforming signs. A nonconforming sign may be continued and shall be maintained in good condition as required by these regulations, but it shall not be:

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1. Structurally changed to another nonconforming sign, but its pictorial content may be changed;

2. Structurally altered to prolong the life of the sign, except to meet safety requirements;

3. Expanded or altered in a manner that increases the degree of nonconformity; or

4. Reestablished after damage or destruction if the estimated cost of reconstruction exceeds 75 percent of the replacement cost as determined by the Building Official.

• C. New signs on sites with nonconforming signs. No new sign shall be approved for a site, structure, or use that contains a nonconforming sign, unless the nonconforming sign is first removed or modified to fully conform to the provisions of this Chapter. No Building Permit shall be issued for any structures, expansions, or new construction on a site that contains nonconforming signs, unless all signs on the site are brought into compliance with this Chapter. This does not include interior alterations that do not substantially change the character or intensity of the site.

• D. Ordinary maintenance, painting and/or repair. Nonconforming signs may only be maintained, painted, and/or repaired (i.e., repairs shall be limited to cosmetic enhancements/refinements but no structural alterations, unless required by the Building Official) in place and may not be removed from their existing location, except for remodeling of the structure to which the sign is attached or termination of the sign. See Subparagraph F. (Structure remodeling), below.

• E. Change of business ownership. Upon a change of ownership, the new owner of a nonconforming sign may change a name(s) on the sign so long as there is no change in the structure or configuration of the sign.

• F. Structure remodeling. Nonconforming signs may be removed for the purpose of remodeling the structure to which the sign is attached and shall be replaced immediately after the remodeling is completed. No alteration of the sign cabinet or sign structure is allowed.

G. Hardship cases.

1. Under cases of extreme hardship and unusual circumstances, the Commission shall have the authority to allow the retention of a legal nonconforming sign if the Commission specifically finds that extreme hardship and unusual circumstances exist. The proponent of the request shall have the burden of clearly demonstrating that an extreme hardship and unusual circumstance exists and warrants the retention of the nonconforming sign.

2. The Commission shall conduct a public hearing and shall find the following to be true before allowing retention of a legal nonconforming sign:

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• a. The site has a unique character or features that cause visibility problems;

• b. The sign does not create a traffic hazard;

• c. The sign does not create a visual blight to the community;

• d. The sign does not adversely affect abutting properties;

• e. The sign is properly maintained and structurally sound;

• f. Other sign alternatives or designs would not be feasible or be able to provide reasonable signing in compliance with this Chapter; and

• g. If the Commission finds that an extreme and unusual circumstance exists, but that the design or condition of the sign creates a visual blight, then the Commission may grant a relief from the amortization of the nonconforming sign with the condition that the sign be remodeled to improve the condition of the sign and/or to create a more aesthetic design.

A. Public Notification Signs for Designated Uses.

1. Signs shall be installed in public view with contact information for a local designated representative who works for the facility operator and who is designated to receive complaints about excessive dust, fumes, or odors, and truck and parking complaints for the site.

2. Signs shall include contact information for the SJVAPCD on-line complaint system and its complaint call-line.

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