Article 12 — Sign Standards

This article may be referred to as the Huntington Park Sign Ordinance, or the sign ordinance. (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

The ordinance codified in this article is adopted pursuant to the authority of California Government Code Section 38774 , Business and Professions Code Sections 5230 and 5490 et seq., Civil Code Section 713 , and other applicable state law. (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

This article regulates signs, as defined herein, which are located on or mounted on private property within the corporate limits of the City, as well as land owned by public entities other than the City or its affiliates, over which the City has land use regulatory authority. This article does not regulate signs on the public right-of-way; such signs are subject to Article 12A of this chapter. (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

The purposes of this article include:

1. To protect and advance the City's interests in community esthetics by controlling visual clutter; to advance and serve the public interests in pedestrian and driver safety; to protect property values; and to allow adequate opportunities for the display of messages on a sign;

2. To implement the General Plan by insuring that signs erected within the City are compatible with their surroundings and are in keeping with the goals and objectives of the General Plan; and

3. To maintain the attractiveness and orderliness of the City's appearance by regulating the number, location, type, quality of materials, height, illumination and maintenance of signs.

(§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

The policies and principles stated in this section apply to all signs within the regulatory scope of this article, and to all procedures set forth in, or invoked by, this article. These policies and principles prevail over any other provision to the contrary, even if more specific.

• A. Enforcement Authority. The Director of Community Development is authorized and directed to enforce and administrate this article.

• B. Permit Generally Required. Unless expressly exempted by a provision of this article or by other applicable law, signs within the regulatory scope of this article may be erected, moved, altered, repaired, maintained or displayed only pursuant to a permit issued by the City.

• C. Message Neutrality. It is the City's policy to regulate signs in a constitutional manner, which is content neutral as to noncommercial signs and content neutral or viewpoint neutral as to commercial signs.

• D. Regulatory Interpretations. All regulatory interpretations of this article are to be exercised in light of the City's message 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 article, then the Director shall approve, conditionally approve or disapprove the application based on the most similar sign type that is expressly regulated by this article.

• E. Substitution of Messages. Subject to the property owner's consent, a noncommercial message of any type may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any duly permitted or allowed commercial message or in place of any duly permitted or allowed noncommercial message, provided that the sign structure or mounting device is legal without consideration of message content. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting. This message substitution authorization is continuing in nature, and is not a "one-time" option. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this article. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any 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 amount of signage on a parcel, lot or land use; it does not affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted; it does not allow a change in the physical structure of a sign or its mounting device; it does not allow the substitution of an off-site commercial message in place of an on-site commercial message, and does not allow one particular on-site commercial message to be substituted for another without a permit.

• F. Rules for Noncommunicative Aspects of Signs. All rules and regulations concerning the noncommunicative aspects of signs, such as location, size, height, illumination, spacing, orientation, etc., stand enforceable independently of any permit or approval process.

• G. Billboard Policy. The City completely prohibits the construction, erection or use of any billboards, other than those which legally exist in the City, or for which a valid permit has been issued and has not expired, as of the date on which this provision is first adopted. This policy does not apply to signs and devices which satisfy the rules for electronic displays. No permit shall be issued for any billboard which violates this policy, and the City will take immediate abatement action against any billboard constructed or maintained in violation of this policy. In adopting this provision, the City Council affirmatively declares that it would have adopted this billboard policy even if it were the only provision in this article. The City Council intends for this billboard policy to be severable and separately enforceable even if other provision(s) of this article may be declared, by a court of competent jurisdiction, to be unconstitutional, invalid or unenforceable. This provision does not prohibit agreements to relocate presently existing, legal billboards.

• H. Permanent signs should be accessory or auxiliary to the principal use of the land.

• I. Situs of Noncommercial Signs. The onsite/off-site distinction applies only to commercial messages on signs.

• J. Multiple Use Zones. In any zone or district where both residential and nonresidential uses are allowed, the sign-related rights and responsibilities applicable to any particular use shall be determined as follows: residential uses shall be treated as if they were located in a zone where that type of use would be allowed as a matter of right, and nonresidential uses shall be treated as if they were located in a zone where that particular use would be allowed, either as a matter of right or subject to a conditional use permit or other discretionary process.

• K. Property Owner's Consent. No sign may be displayed without the consent of the legal owner(s) of the property on which the sign is mounted or displayed. For purposes of this policy, "owner" means the holder of the legal title to the property and all parties and persons holding a present right to possession, control or use of the property.

• L. Legal Nature of Sign-Related Rights and Duties. As to all signs attached to property, real or personal, the signage rights, duties and obligations arising from this article attach to and travel with the land or other property on which a sign is mounted or displayed. This provision does not

modify or affect the law of fixtures, sign-related provisions in private leases regarding signs (so long as they are not in conflict with this article or other law) or the ownership of sign structures.

• M. Sign Programs. Sign programs for specific developments, as well as special sign districts or special sign overlay zones, when duly approved, may modify the rules stated herein as to sign size, height, illumination, spacing, orientation or other non-communicative aspects of signs, but may not override or modify any of the Basic Policies stated in this section. All the provisions of this section shall automatically apply to and be deemed a part of any sign program approved after the date on which this provision is initially adopted.

• N. Severance. If any section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion or provision of this article is held invalid or, unconstitutional, or unenforceable, by any court of competent jurisdiction, such holding shall not affect, impair, or invalidate any other section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion, or provision of this article which can be given effect without the invalid portion. In adopting this article, the City Council affirmatively declares that it would have approved and adopted the Article even without any portion which may be held invalid or unenforceable.

• (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

For the purposes of this article, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them by this section:

"Abandoned sign" means any sign which was lawfully erected, but whose use has ceased for a period of 180 or more consecutive days, including any structure, poles, braces, and similar devices that support the sign.

"Air-dancer sign" means an animated portable sign by which air is used to inflate and cause a part to move around or gyrate. The air-dancer may contain a commercial message.

"Alteration" means any change of copy, sign face, color, size, shape, illumination, position, location, construction or supporting structure of any sign.

"Animated" sign and "moving sign" both mean any sign which uses movement, lighting or special materials to depict action or create a special effect to imitate movement.

Area of a Sign. See "Sign area."

"Awning, canopy or marquee sign" means a graphic image that is painted on, or attached to, an awning, canopy or marquee.

"Banner, flag or pennant" means any cloth, bunting, plastic, paper or similar material used for advertising purposes attached to or pinned onto any structure, staff, pole, line, framing or vehicle, including captive balloons and inflatable signs.

"Bench sign" means copy painted on any portion of a bench.

"Billboard" means a sign whose display face exceeds eight square feet, is on a permanent structure, and meets any one of the following criteria: (a) it is used for the display of off-site commercial messages; (b) it is used for general advertising or advertising for hire; or (c) the sign structure constitutes a principal, separate or secondary use of the land, as opposed to an accessory or auxiliary use of the land.

"Electronic displays" are not within this definition.

"Building frontage" means that building elevation that fronts on a public street, alley, the subject site's parking lot or pedestrian arcade.

"Building sign" means a sign used for identifying a multitenant building.

"Cabinet sign" or "can sign" means a sign that contains all the text and/or logo symbols on the display face of an enclosed cabinet.

"Changeable copy sign" means a sign designed to allow the changing of copy through manual, mechanical or electrical means; however, "electronic displays" are not within this definition.

"Channel letters" means three-dimensional individually cut letters or figures, illuminated or nonilluminated, affixed to a building or sign structure.

"Civic event sign" means a temporary sign, other than a commercial sign, posted to advertise a civic event which is not commercial in nature.

"City property" means land or other property owned by the City, as well as property in which the City has a present right of possession and/or control, and all public rights-of-way.

"Commercial mascot" means a human or animal dressed, decorated, holding, or functioning as commercial advertising device or message. This definition includes "sign twirlers," "sign clowns," and similar devices.

"Commercial message" means a message or display on a sign which pertains primarily to the economic interests of the sign owner or sponsor and/or the sign viewer, or which proposes a commercial transaction or offers or solicits professional services. This definition shall be interpreted in light of relevant court decisions.

"Construction sign" means a temporary sign located on the premises of a land development involving new construction or physical alteration which is subject to land development approval and/or building permits.

"Copy" means the communicative portion of the sign, consisting of visual images.

"Directional sign" means a sign whose purpose is to guide or direct pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

"Director" means the Director of the Huntington Park Community Development Department or designee.

"Directory sign" means a sign that identifies tenants in a multiple tenant building or center.

"Eave line" means the bottom of the roof eave.

"Electronic display" means an internally illuminated message device capable of displaying full color, full motion graphic images. Such devices are also known as "electronic readerboards."

"Establishment" means a nonresidential use of land involving structures which are subject to the Building Code. By way of example and not limitation, this definition includes stores, businesses, warehouses, factories, libraries, schools, hospitals, etc., but not long-term residential structures.

"Establishment identification sign" means a sign that serves to identify an establishment.

"Feather sign" means an animated portable sign that has the appearance of sail or feather which may move around.

"Flashing sign" means a sign that utilizes an intermittent or sequential interruption of the light source.

"Freestanding sign" means a sign that is supported on the ground by one or more uprights, braces, poles or other similar structural components. Types include pole signs (those mounted on poles or similar devices) and monument signs (those mounted directly on the ground).

"Frontage" means lineal measurement of a building facade or lot that fronts on a public street, alley, the subject site's parking lot or pedestrian arcade.

"Future tenant identification sign" means a temporary sign that identifies the names of future businesses that will occupy a site or building in the foreseeable future.

"Grand opening" means a promotional activity, not exceeding 180 calendar days, used by establishments newly opened in a particular location, within six months after occupancy, the purpose of which is to inform the public of their location and services available to the community. This definition does not include an annual or occasional promotion by an establishment which has been located in a particular location for more than six months.

"Height of sign" means: (a) for freestanding signs, the greatest vertical distance measured from the existing grade at the mid-point of the sign support(s) that intersect the ground to the highest element of

the sign, or (b) for wall signs, the distance from the finished ground surface below the sign to the highest element of the sign.

"Human sign" means a commercial sign held by or attached to a human for the purposes of advertising or otherwise drawing attention to an individual, business, commodity, service or product. This includes a person dressed in costume for the purpose of advertising or drawing attention to an individual, business, commodity, service or product. However, it does not include noncommercial signs held by or attached to a human.

"Illegal sign" means any sign placed without proper governmental approval and/or permits, or in violation of limits or rules which apply regardless of any permit requirement or exemption there from.

"Illuminated sign" means a sign which uses an artificial source of light to make the message readable or more visually prominent. This definition includes internally and externally lighted signs, as well as reflectorized, glowing, or radiating signs.

"Logo sign" means an established trademark or symbol identifying the use of a building.

"Marquee" means a permanent roof-like structure that projects beyond the building wall in the form of a large canopy to provide protection from the weather.

"Monument sign" means a freestanding sign mounted directly on the ground without separate poles or braces.

Moving Sign. See "Animated sign."

"Multiple tenant site/center" means a commercial or industrial development consisting of four or more separate establishments that share either the same lot or building, and use common access and parking facilities.

"Neighborhood entrance sign" means a sign placed at or near the entrance to a development or neighborhood.

"Nonconforming sign" means a sign that was legally installed under laws or ordinances in effect prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this article or subsequent revisions, but which is in conflict with the provisions of this article.

"Noncommercial message" means a message or image which pertains to matters other than those included in the definition of "commercial message," such as, by way of example and not limitation, expression on topics of public concern and debate (religion, political views, philosophy, commentary on social trends or policy, etc.). Location-based criteria, such as "on-premises" or "off-premises" do not apply to noncommercial messages.

"Off-site sign" means a sign that displays a commercial message concerning goods or services which are not available at the same location as the sign. The on-site/off-site distinction applies only to commercial message signs.

"On-site sign" or "on-premises sign" means a sign whose message, if commercial in nature, that identifies, advertises or attracts attention to a business, product, service, event or activity, which is sold, existing or offered at the same site.

"Opaque" means a surface that prohibits light from shining through.

"Painted-on-the-wall sign" means a sign painted directly onto a wall surface.

"Portable sign, animated" means a sign which is capable of being carried or readily moved from one location to another and which is not permanent in terms of its materials, attachment or mounting method. Includes, but is not limited to, the types commonly known as feather signs and air-dancers.

"Portable sign, stationary" means a sign which is capable of being carried or readily moved from one location to another and which is not permanent in terms of its materials, attachment or mounting method, and no portion of the sign is animated or capable of having motion. Includes, but is not limited to, the types commonly known as A-frame signs or sign stands.

"Projecting sign" means a sign, other than a wall sign, which is attached to the exterior of a building and extends beyond such exterior wall, and is not parallel to the structure to which it is attached.

"Promotional sign" means a temporary sign erected for the purpose of advertising a special event which lasts not more than 15 calendar days.

"Property/lot frontage" means lineal measurement of a property or a lot abutting a public street.

"Raceway" means the exposed portion of a sign structure that houses the electrical wiring.

"Real estate sign" means a temporary sign pertaining to a proposed economic transaction involving real property, but not including vacancy or availability information for institutions offering transient occupancy, such as hotels, motels, etc.

"Sign" means any device used for display of visual images as a means of communicating ideas or information, which is visible from the public right-of-way. This definition includes both the image display and the physical mounting structure or mounting device. However, the following are not within this definition:

• A. Interior Signs. Signs or other visual communicative devices that are located entirely within a building or other enclosed structure, which are not visible from the exterior thereof or located at least five feet from the window, provided the building or enclosed structure is otherwise legal.

• B. Architectural Features. Decorative or architectural features of buildings (not including lettering, trademarks or moving parts).

• C. Symbols Embedded in Architecture. Symbols of noncommercial organizations or concepts including, but not limited to, religious or political symbols, when such are permanently integrated into the structure of a permanent building which is otherwise legal; the definition also includes foundation stones and cornerstones.

• D. Personal Appearance. Items or devices of personal apparel, decoration or appearance, including tattoos, makeup, wigs, costumes, masks, etc. (but not including commercial mascots).

• E. Manufacturers' Marks. Marks on tangible products, which identify the maker, seller, provider or product, and which customarily remain attached to the product even after sale.

• F. Fireworks, etc. The legal use of fireworks, candles and artificial lighting not otherwise regulated by this article.

• G. Mass Transit Signage. Graphic images mounted on trains or duly licensed mass transit vehicles that legally pass through the City.

• H. Certain Insignia on Vehicles and Vessels. On street legal vehicles and properly licensed watercraft; license plates, license plate frames, registration insignia, noncommercial messages, messages relating to the business of which the vehicle or vessel is an instrument or tool (not including general advertising) and messages relating to the proposed sale, lease or exchange of the vehicle or vessel.

• I. Grave stones or grave markers.

• J. Newsracks and newsstands.

• K. Shopping carts, golf carts, personal "scooters" and similar devices.

• L. Vending machines which do not display off-site commercial messages or general advertising messages.

• M. Graphic images which are visible only from above, such as those visible only from airplanes or helicopters.

• N. On residential uses, holiday and cultural observance decorations which are on display for no more than 45 calendar days per year (cumulative) and which do not include commercial advertising messages; by way of example and not limitation, such displays would include

those related to Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hannukah, Ramadan, Kwaanza, Solstice celebrations, etc.

• O. Cornerstones and foundation stones.

• P. Hot air balloons which carry persons and do not display general advertising messages.

"Sign area" means the entire area within a perimeter defined by a continuous line composed of right angles that 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 program" or "planned sign program" means a coordinated program of one or more signs for an individual building or building complex with multiple tenants.

"Sign structure" means any structure on which sign copy or communicative image is placed, or which is used to mount or support the same.

"Site" means one or more parcels of land identified on a recorded tract or parcel map where an integrated building development has been approved or proposed. The site shall include all parcels of land contained within or a part of the development application.

"Special event sign/banner" means a temporary sign or banner that is intended to inform the public of a unique happening, action, purpose, occasion, grand opening or community event.

"Temporary sign" means a sign made of lightweight or flimsy materials and is not designed for permanent display. Such signs are usually made of cloth, canvas, light fabrics, cardboard, wallboard, plywood, metal or plastic.

"Translucent" means a surface that allows light to shine through, but is diffused to the extent so that visual images are unclear.

"Vehicle sign" means a sign that is attached to, painted, or placed on a vehicle or trailer that is parked or circulating within the city limits, the principal purpose of which is to display commercial messages or advertisements. This definition does not include signs on vehicles and/or trailers displaying a business identification.

"Wall sign" means a sign that is attached to the exterior wall of a building with the display surface of the sign approximately parallel to the building wall.

"Window sign" means a graphic image posted, painted, placed or affixed in or on any window exposed to public view; includes images visible from the exterior whenever the image is located within three feet of the window.

(§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007, as amended by §§ 2—4, Ord. 899-NS, eff. September 6, 2012)

1. Generally.

   • A. Unless expressly exempted by a provision of this article or by other applicable law, signs within the regulatory scope of this article may be erected, moved, altered, repaired, maintained or displayed only pursuant to a permit issued by the City.

   • B. Change of copy on an existing, legal sign does not require a new permit, provided there is no change to the physical structure and that the change does not result in the display of off-site commercial messages on permanent structures.

   • C. A sign permit is also for signs approved through a planned sign program application in compliance with Section 9-3.1211 of this chapter.

   • D. Application for a sign permit shall be on a form provided by the City and shall be accompanied by a filing fee, as set by Council resolution.

2. Application Requirements. The following information is required for submittal of a sign permit application:

   • A. A completed application form and fee; and

   • B. Plans, to scale, to include the following:

     • (1) Sign details, indicating sign area, dimensions, colors, materials, method of illumination and a statement as to whether the sign will be used to display off-site commercial messages,

     • (2) Site plan indicating the location of all existing and proposed signs with sign area and dimensions for the entire development site,

     • (3) Building elevation(s) with proposed signs depicted and dimensioned,

     • (4) The method of attachment for wall signs, and a foundation plan, sign support and method of attachment for freestanding signs,

     • (5) The type and method of illumination (interior/exterior), intensity in lumens and watts, and electrical installation and insulation devices, where applicable,

     • (6) Planned sign program applications shall also include a written set of design standards approved by the property owner and property management or property owner association,

     • (7) Freestanding sign applications shall include landscaping plans, architectural criteria, traffic line-of-sight triangulation approved by the City Engineer to ensure safe view of drivers and pedestrians as well as technical drawings and calculations, including wind load calculations, signed by a California Registered engineer or architect,

     • (8) Name and contact information for the applicant,

     • (9) Whether any zoning or building code violations exist on the property, or if notices thereof have been given,

     • (10) Name and contact information for any sign contractor who will construct the sign.

3. Approval of Sign Applications. A sign permit application will be approved by the Director when it is found to be in compliance with this article and all other applicable laws, rules and regulations.

4. Appeal Right. A sign permit applicant objecting to a determination of the Director may appeal initially to the Planning Commission and then to the City Council, after which judicial review may be sought pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.8 . The Director may also appeal or refer any application or other sign-related decision. This same appeal path is available for all signrelated decisions. While a decision or permit application is proceeding through appeal, the status quo shall be maintained unless the physical condition of a sign constitutes an immediate and serious threat to the public health and safety, in which case the sign may be summarily abated as a public nuisance.

5. Notice of Appeal. Appeals are effected by filing a written notice of appeal, stating the matters appealed from and the grounds therefor, within 15 calendar days of notice of the decision, and including any appeal fee applicable under City law.

6. Time for Decision. At each step in the review and appeal process, the decision shall be made within 45 calendar days of when a complete application is presented, or when the notice of appeal is filed, as applicable. The decision time requirement may be waived.

7. Completeness of Applications. When a sign permit application is presented to the City, the Director shall cause it to be reviewed for completeness. If it is found incomplete, then a particularized notice of the incompleteness shall be mailed or delivered to the applicant. Upon receiving such notice, the applicant has 15 calendar days to cure without incurring a new filing

fee. If no notice of incompleteness is timely provided, then the application shall be deemed complete as of the day after the notice could have been given.

8. Revocation of Sign Permits. The Director is authorized to revoke a sign permit and require the removal of a sign that has been granted in compliance with the provisions of this article if any of the following apply:

   • A. The sign has been erected, altered, reconstructed or is being maintained in a manner inconsistent with the sign permit;

   • B. The sign permit was obtained by misrepresentation or fraud;

   • C. Any of the condition of the sign permit have not been met; or

• D. The use is in violation of any statute, ordinance, law or regulation.

• (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

Permits shall not be required for the following types of signs:

1. Signs with No Size Limitations.

   • A. Face Change. Change of copy on an existing, legal sign structure, provided that such change of copy does not result in the display of off-site commercial messages.

   • B. Official and legal notices issued by a court or governmental agency.

   • C. Flags displaying noncommercial images.

   • D. Direction, warning, or safety information signs required or authorized by law or by Federal, State, County or City authority, including public utility signs.

2. Signs Limited by Maximum Areas. The following signs are exempt from the requirements of sign permits and do not count towards the aggregate number or area of signs allowed:

   • A. On nonresidential establishments, window signs not exceeding 25% of window area;

   • B. Signs not exceeding four square feet in display face area which provide directional information for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians; if freestanding, such signs may not exceed four feet in height;

   • C. On residential uses, plates or insignia not exceeding one square foot in display face area, which identify residents and addresses;

   • D. Other Noncommercial Signs on Residential Uses. In addition to residential nameplates, signs displaying noncommercial message signs may be displayed on residential uses at any time, subject to: maximum display area (cumulative total for all signs on a single residential use): eight square feet; maximum height (if freestanding): four feet; illumination: not permitted; physical types: freestanding yard sign(s) or mounted on a wall, fence, or window, maximum number per residential use: not limited. However, during the time period which begins 45 days before any primary, general or special election and ends seven days after such election, the maximum display area (per residential use) is increased to 64 square feet This provision does not override sign related provisions in private leases or other contracts concerning use of real property;

   • E. On auto-related uses, motels, hotels and inns, signs that provide information required by law, or which pertain to services provided, trade affiliations, credit cards accepted, etc., or noncommercial messages, provided the signs are attached to an otherwise approved

freestanding sign, structure or building. Total area of all such signs shall not exceed two square feet.

3. Vehicle signs when the copy or message:

   • A. Relates only to the business or establishments of which the vehicle itself is a part;

   • B. Pertains to the sale, rent, lease or hire of such vehicle; or

   • C. Is a noncommercial message.

(§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007, as amended by § 5, Ord. 899-NS, eff. September 6, 2012)

1. Sign Program Required. In order to ensure that signs within multitenant projects and other special types of signs are in harmony with other on-site signs, buildings, and surrounding developments, a planned sign program shall be required when any of the following circumstances exist:

   • A. Multitenant developments of four or more separate businesses that share either the same lot or building and use common access and parking facilities;

   • B. Whenever five or more signs are proposed for a development; and

   • C. Whenever wall signs are proposed on structures over two stories in height.

2. Intent of the Sign Program. The intent of a planned sign program is to integrate multiple signs with building design in a unified architectural statement. The sign program is not intended to limit the message content of signs, but rather to insure architectural harmony of sign structures, and to provide a means for flexible application of the sign regulations. The message substitution provision, stated in the basic policies section, applies automatically to all sign programs. The intent and goals of the sign program may be achieved by:

   • A. Using the same or similar type of cabinet and supports for signs of a same type; using the same type of construction material for components (i.e., sign copy, cabinets, and supports);

   • B. Using the same form of illumination for all signs, or by using varied forms of illumination that have been determined by the Director to be compatible;

   • C. Permitting an increase in the number or types of signs normally allowed, provided that the design and placement of the signs provide a visual enhancement to the project and the total allowable sign area is not increased; and

   • D. Ensuring that the sign program accommodates future revisions that may be required due to tenant changes.

3. Application Requirement. The following information is required for submittal of a planned sign program:

   • A. A completed sign permit application form and fee;

   • B. Plans, to scale, to include the following:

     • (1) Sign details indicating sign area, dimensions, colors, materials, letter style, proposed copy letter height and method of illumination,

     • (2) Site plan indicating the location(s) of all existing and proposed signs with sign area dimensions, colors, materials, letter style, proposed copy if available, letter height and method of illumination,

     • (3) Building elevation(s) with sign location depicted and dimensioned, and

     • (4) Approval and Appeal of Planned Sign Programs. A planned sign program may be approved by the Director provided that the proposed sign program is consistent with the intent and provisions of this article. Decisions on proposed sign programs are subject to the same procedures as sign permit applications, including time for decision and appeal rights. Alternatively, the Director may refer sign program proposals to the Planning Commission.

4. Review.

• A. Review of the planned sign program may include consideration of size, color, material, illumination, location, size and height, compatibility with building architecture and other elements of design, but shall not include review of the actual message, copy or graphic design of the display face.

• B. Sign Program Revisions. Whenever revisions are proposed for an approved sign program, the revisions shall be processed in the same manner as an original proposal.

• (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

1. Public Nuisance. Illegal, abandoned, unsafe and improperly maintained signs and supporting structures are deemed to be public nuisances and are subject to abatement under the procedures outlined for the abatement of public nuisances. The determination of "unsafe" or "improperly maintained" conditions shall be made by the Building Official, who shall base the decision on the physical attributes of the sign, and not on the message or image displayed thereon.

2. Authority to Abate. The Director is authorized to abate all illegal and abandoned signs in compliance with the procedures in Article 35 of Title 5 of this Code for the abatement of public nuisances. The City may follow the procedure detailed in Business and Professions Code Section 5499.1 et seq., or any other method allowed by law.

3. Recovery of Costs. When the City is required to remove illegal or abandoned signs in compliance with this section, the reasonable cost of the removal may be assessed against the owner or occupant of the property upon which any sign abatement occurs. The cost of removal shall be determined in compliance with Article 35 of Title 5 .

• (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

The following signs are prohibited throughout the City:

1. Any sign not in compliance with the provisions of this article or which were not in compliance with the laws and rules in effect at the time of original construction or mounting (disregarding any rules making reference to message content);

2. Abandoned signs and sign structures;

3. Bench signs, except at approved bus passenger loading areas;

4. Light bulb strings used as part of commercial advertising;

5. Signs on roofs, except mansard-type roofs (see Section 9-3.1216 of this chapter);

6. Billboards, as defined herein;

7. Human signs;

8. Portable signs or A-frame signs not specifically permitted by the provisions of this article;

9. Signs emitting audible sounds, odors or visible matters; however, this provision does not prohibit signs which also include devices for customers to place an order or conduct a transaction from their vehicles;

10. Signs placed in a manner so that they interfere with the free use of any fire escape, exit or standpipe, or obstruct any required ventilator, door, stairway or window;

11. Signs that obstruct traffic visibility or cause a hazardous distraction to motorists as determined by the City Engineer, without consideration of copy or message displayed;

12. Styrofoam or Similar Nondurable Material Signs. Styrofoam core (or similar material) individual channel letter signs may be approved by the Director in the C-P, C-N and C-G zoning districts if completely enclosed with a durable exterior finish and part of an integrated sign design. A durable finish shall provide good weather resistance.

13. Vehicle Signs. Any vehicle displaying signs may not be parked and/or circulate within the City limits for the primary purpose of commercial advertising. Vehicles may not be used as mounting or holding devices for commercial signs. This provision shall not apply to government vehicles, public transportation vehicles, and taxis.

• (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007, as amended by § 1, Ord. 828-NS, eff. September 4, 2008, and § 6, Ord. 899-NS, eff. September 6, 2012)

1. Maintenance of Signs. All signs, including temporary signs, shall be maintained in good repair and functioning properly at all times. Any repairs to signs shall be equal or better in quality of materials and design as the original sign. Dilapidated signs are deemed to be a public nuisance and may be abated in compliance with provisions of the Municipal Code. The Director shall have the authority for determining the maintenance status of all signs in compliance with the following:

   • A. Signs shall not be in a state of unsafe condition where any supporting structures or hardware are (is) substantially corroded, loose or broken, or otherwise presents a threat to the public safety.

   • B. Signs shall not be excessively dirty or faded.

2. Measurement of Sign Area for All Signs except Awning, Canopy and Window Signs. The surface area of a sign shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of any writing, logo, representation, emblem or other display, together with any frame, background area, structural trim or other material or color forming an integral part of the background of the display or used to differentiate the sign from the backdrop or surface against which it is placed, with-in a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles. (Figure 12-1)

==> picture [360 x 318] intentionally omitted <==

• A. Supporting framework or bracing that is clearly incidental to the display itself shall not be computed as sign area.

• B. If the sign consists of more than one section or module and the sign is intended to read as a single sign, all of the area, including the area between the sections or modules, shall be included in the computation of sign area. However, on frontages with multiple signs that are intended to be read as multiple signs, the area between words, logos, emblems, or other displays, shall not be included in the computation of sign area.

• C. Double-faced (back-to-back) freestanding signs shall be regarded as a single sign only if the distance between each sign face does not exceed two feet.

• D. A "V-type" sign shall be regarded as a single sign only if the two sides are separated by no more than three feet at any point.

3. Awning or Canopy Signs.

   • A. The surface area of a canopy or awning sign shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of any writing, logo, representation, emblem, border or other display within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles.

   • B. If more than one surface of the awning or canopy is utilized for signs, or if an under-canopy sign is attached to the main canopy, the aggregate sign area shall be calculated by totaling the sign area on each surface.

   • C. Signs shall be located only on the valance or lower edge of the awning or canopy, or as determined by the Director. Logos may be allowed on other portions of the awning as an integrated design as approved by the Director.

4. Window Signs.

• A. The surface area of a window sign shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of any writing, logo, representation, emblem, border or other display within a single continuous

perimeter composed of squares or rectangles.

• B. Window coverage shall be the quotient of the sign area divided the window size. Window signs exceeding 25% of window area shall require a sign permit and when combined with other signs shall not exceed the total allowable sign area and shall not cover more than fifty percent of the window area.

• (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007, as amended by § 2, Ord. 885-NS, eff. June 7, 2012)

1. Sign illumination shall be either from the interior of the sign, behind individually cut letters (back lighting), neon tubing a screened indirect light source or decorative exterior light fixtures;

2. Illuminated signs shall be designed to fully shield their light source from view; and

3. Illuminated signs shall be designed and placed so that no light is cast onto any property zoned/used for residential purposes.

• (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

The use of neon shall be allowed in all but residential zoning districts and shall require the approval of a sign permit in compliance with Section 9-3.1204 . The proposed use of neon lighting as an architectural element is subject to approval through a Development Permit (Title 9 , Chapter 2 , Article 10 of the HPMC). In addition, the following requirements apply:

1. Neon signs and linear tubing shall be UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listed with a maximum 20 amps per circuit and be designed to accommodate a dimmer in order to reduce the brightness of the sign;

2. Neon manufacturer shall be registered with Underwriters Laboratories;

3. Neon adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed one half foot candle measured at the property line;

4. Neon signs hung inside the storefront window shall not occupy more than 25% of the window area.

• (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

1. All projecting signs shall be double-faced;

2. The outside face of a wall mounted sign shall not project more than 30 inches from the surface of a building or wall to which it is attached;

3. Signs may project over public spaces, public sidewalks or building lines as far as, but not beyond, the line marked "A" indicated in Figure 12-2 in this article. Signs less than nine square feet in size shall be exempt from this section;

==> picture [361 x 276] intentionally omitted <==

4. Signs that project over pedestrian areas shall maintain eight feet of headroom. Signs that project more than six inches over vehicular areas shall maintain a clearance of 14 feet above grade; and

5. Signs may not project above the eave line or parapet of a structure a distance greater than 20% of the distance between the ground level and the eave line or top of parapet. (Figure 12-3)

==> picture [264 x 241] intentionally omitted <==

(§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

1. Signs placed on a wall of a structure may not project above the eave line of a mansard roof a distance greater than 20% of the distance between the ground level and the top of mansard roof. Signs placed on a mansard roof may not project above the top of the roof; and

2. Signs shall be constructed to conceal all supporting structures and fastenings to the greatest extent feasible. (Figure 12-4)

==> picture [343 x 333] intentionally omitted <==

(§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

1. Monument and freestanding pole signs shall only be permitted in the C-P, C-N, C-G and MPD zoning districts;

2. All signs shall be double-faced;

3. Signs shall not project beyond any property line. Any supporting structure/pole shall be set back a minimum of five feet from any property line;

4. Signs shall incorporate architectural design features, materials, and colors that are compatible with structures on the site;

5. Sign shall not be placed in a location that would create a safety hazard for pedestrians and/or motorists; and

6. A landscaped area shall be provided at the base of each sign equal to the area of one sign face. (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

Because of the special circumstances that exist in the advertising of products sold in food markets, the following sign regulations shall apply to food markets only:

1. For the purpose of this section, "food markets" are defined as any market or grocery store that has a variety of fresh meat and produce available at all times along with other standard food items;

2. The maximum surface area for all signs, temporary and permanent, shall be computed on the following basis: four square feet of sign area for each lineal foot of building frontage, with no limit on the number of signs; and

3. Temporary signs shall be subject to the following restrictions:

   • A. Outside signs shall be located completely within the area of a sign frame or structure that is permanently installed;

   • B. Sign frames or structures shall be constructed of durable materials;

   • C. Signs may be constructed of paper, cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard or wallboard;

   • D. The maximum size of any individual temporary sign shall not exceed nine square feet;

   • E. Sign structures shall be treated in a manner satisfactory to the Director in order to resist deterioration from weather;

   • F. Signs affixed to, or obscuring, a window shall comply with Section 9-3.1512 of this article; and

G. No temporary sign shall be placed over public property. (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

Any legal billboard located in the C-N, C-P, C-G or MPD zoning districts may be replaced by a new sign structure, provided that:

1. The area of the display face(s) may not be increased;

2. The number of display faces shall not be increased;

3. The new sign may include multi-prism or "tri-vision" type display devices only if the old sign also used such devices;

4. The total illumination of the new sign shall not exceed that on the old sign;

5. The new sign shall not be used for extensions or projections beyond the display face;

6. The new sign may not utilize moving images, or the appearance of moving images;

7. The new sign shall not emit sound, smoke or vapors of any kind;

8. The replaced sign(s) shall be removed prior to the use of the replacement sign. (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007)

1. Advertising Signs. An advertising sign is intended to inform the public of specific products or services offered on-site. Temporary advertising signs may include, but shall not be limited to, signs that are painted on a window or constructed of paper, cloth or similar disposable materials and affixed on a window, wall, building surface, or structure. Temporary advertising signs shall require the approval of a sign permit in compliance with Section 9-3.1207 . Temporary advertising signs are subject to the following standards:

   • A. Only one temporary sign shall be allowed for each building frontage;

   • B. The total area of temporary advertising signs shall not exceed 50% of the maximum sign area allowed for the business or 40 square feet whichever is less;

   • C. Temporary signs shall only be attached to an exterior flat wall surface of a building or other structure and shall be secured at all corners;

   • D. Temporary signs shall not be attached to the exterior of windows or doors, except painted-on signs;

   • E. Any advertising sign that is significantly damaged, dilapidated, worn, weathered or not securely or properly attached shall be immediately removed or replaced;

   • F. Temporary advertising signs may be displayed for a maximum of 30 days within a 90 day period;

   • G. Permits shall not be required for temporary window signs that cover less than 25% of any individual window;

   • H. A temporary sign or banner associated with a special event may only be displayed in conjunction with a permitted special event; and

   • I. Temporary signs shall not require a permit during periods of official public events (e.g., sidewalk sales, street fairs, etc.) Exempted signs shall be removed upon closing of the public event.

2. Real Estate Signs. Real estate signs on private property are exempt from the requirements of sign permits subject to the following limitations:

   • A. Individual residential dwellings: one sign per street frontage not exceeding six square feet each and seven feet in height;

   • B. Apartment units: one unlighted sign per street frontage, not to exceed 16 square feet and seven feet in height;

   • C. Individual commercial, office and industrial properties not located in a commercial center or industrial park: one sign per street frontage not exceeding 32 square feet in area and eight feet in height. Signs shall not impede sight distance requirements. Freestanding signs shall not be located closer than five feet to any property line;

   • D. Multiple-tenant commercial centers, office buildings and industrial subdivisions: two signs per street frontage not to exceed a total of 50 square feet in area and eight feet in height. In addition, one sign for each tenant space available not to exceed six square feet to be located at the individual space for rent or lease. Signs shall not impede sight distance requirements.

3. Construction Signs. Construction signs are exempt from the requirements of sign permits subject to the following limitations:

• A. For residential, commercial and industrial projects, one sign per street frontage not to exceed 16 square feet each. Maximum height shall be eight feet. Signs shall not be located in any way that limits traffic visibility.

  • B. Removal. Construction signs must be removed within 10 calendar days of the earliest of issuance of a final inspection, notice of completion, or certificate of occupancy, or the functional equivalent of any of them.

4. Future Tenant Signs. Future tenant identification signs that advertise the future use of a property are exempt from the requirements of sign permits subject to the following limitations:

   • A. Signs shall be limited to a maximum of 50 square feet. Freestanding signs exceeding eight feet in height shall require a building permit.

5. Subdivision Directional Signs. Signs giving directions to subdivisions may be displayed on private land and are subject to the following:

   • A. There shall be no more than 10 signs located within the City limits for each subdivision;

   • B. Total sign area shall not exceed 100 square feet;

   • C. Sign height shall not exceed 15 feet;

   • D. Signs shall not be illuminated;

   • E. Signs may be displayed during the two years following date of recordation of the final map, or until 90% of the units have been sold or rented, whichever occurs first;

   • F. Apartment and group housing complexes of 30 units or more shall be considered within the definition of a "subdivision."

• (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007, as amended by § 7, Ord. 899-NS, eff. September 6, 2012)

Table III-4 identifies the signs permitted in each zoning district. In addition to the following regulations, all signs shall be in compliance with all other provisions of this article.

(click here to view the full table)

TABLE III-4 SIGN REGULATIONS BY ZONING DISTRICT

TABLE III-4 SIGN REGULATIONS BY ZONING DISTRICT

(§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007, as amended by § 2, Ord. 816-NS, eff. October 4, 2007, § 2, Ord. 818-NS, eff. November 1, 2007; § 1, Ord. 828-NS, eff. September 4, 2008, as amended by § 3, Ord. 885-NS, eff. June 7, 2012)

"Electronic display" means an internally illuminated message device capable of displaying full color, full motion graphic images. Such devices are also known as "electronic readerboards."

1. Permits. The electronic displays described herein may be installed, erected and displayed only after a permit therefor has been duly issued and approved subject to the provisions and regulations of the Sign Ordinance and provisions set forth in this section. All applicable provisions of the building, electrical, grading, plumbing, and other safety codes must be satisfied.

2. Location. The electronic displays may be mounted, installed, erected and displayed only on properties with street frontage which are located along Pacific Boulevard from the north side Florence Avenue to the south side of Randolph Street.

3. Structural Rules. All electronic displays shall be mounted to the exterior façade of the building and conform to the following specifications:

   • A. Electronic displays shall be wall-mounted and shall not extend beyond the length of the wall or walls on which the display is mounted;

   • B. Maximum size: two and one-half (2.5) square feet of display face area per lineal foot of tenant frontage,

   • C. The display area of an electronic display shall be in addition to the sign area otherwise permitted/allowed;

   • D. Vertical projection: limited to the roof line or parapet;

   • E. Electronic displays that project out from the façade shall comply with the requirements of Section 9-3.1218 ;

   • F. Height of the display face: minimum two and one-half (2.5) feet;

   • G. Clearance above grade: minimum eight feet;

   • H. Corner wrap mountings are allowed only on walls with street frontage;

4. Display Characteristics. The electronic display face shall be capable of full color, full motion display, with a minimum resolution of 48 x 1200 pixels, a minimum 48 bit full color display, a minimum brightness of 5,000 nits at 6,500K (white balance), and a minimum pitch of 16 mm.

5. Message Types. The electronic displays may be used for any combination of noncommercial messages and on-site commercial messages, but off-site commercial messages may not be displayed.

• (§ 2, Ord. 802-NS, eff. July 4, 2007; as amended by § 1, Ord. 828-NS, eff. September 4, 2008)

The following regulations apply to portable signs:

1. Private property with one to two stores located on one parcel:

   • A. Only one store is allowed a portable sign at any one particular time.

2. Private property with three and more stores on one parcel or development (i.e., shopping centers and multitenanted buildings:

   • A. Each store within a shopping center or multi-tenanted building is allowed one portable sign but in no instance shall more than 50% of the stores display portable signs at any one particular time;

   • B. Stationary portable signs shall be located completely on private property and placed so as not to obstruct any required ingress/egress into stores or along private walkway areas. However, stationary portable signs may be placed within the entry area to stores and private walkway areas if a minimum horizontal clearance of five feet is maintained at all times for pedestrian travel. At no time shall a portable sign be placed more than 12 inches from the edge of the ground level of a structure, as defined in Section 9-1.203 of this Code;

   • C. Animated portable signs may be placed within the property setback areas and parking areas provided that the portable sign does not encroach into or over the public rights-of-way;

   • D. Animated portable signs shall not be located within the entry of stores and private walkway areas;

   • E. The property owner shall include portable signs as part of the property's Master Sign Program;

   • F. The property owner shall regulate and enforce the provisions of this section; and

   • G. The property owner and tenant will both be held liable for violation of this section.

3. Public Property.

   • A. Only stationary portable signs may be placed on public rights-of-way. Animated portable signs are not allowed on public rights-of-way;

   • B. Stationary portable signs may be placed on the public sidewalk so long as they are located no further than 12 inches from the front property line of the store and a minimum horizontal clearance of five feet is maintained at all times for pedestrian travel.

4. General Conditions.

   • A. The maximum dimensions for portable signs shall be as follows:

     • (1) A-frame signs: four feet high and three feet wide;

     • (2) Air-dancer signs: not allowed in the DTSP;

     • (3) Feather signs: 10 feet high and three feet wide;

     • (4) Sign stand: four feet high and two feet wide.

5. Permits.

   • A. A temporary sign permit shall be issued for all portable signs and may be placed for up to 30 days in a three month period.

   • B. All portable signs shall be designed and completed professionally subject to the approval of the Community Development Director or designee.

• C. The owner of the sign shall provide a certificate of liability insurance in compliance with the City of Huntington Park City Clerk's office for signs placed on the public right-of-way.

• (§ 8, Ord. 899-NS, eff. September 6, 2012)