24.16.1130 Non-Conforming Signs and Signs Without Permits — Imperial Zoning Code

General Requirements.
- a. A non-conforming sign may not be:
  1. Changed to another non-conforming sign.
  2. Structurally altered to extend its useful life.

  3. Expanded. 

  4. Reestablished after a business discontinued for sixty days. 

  5. Reestablished after damage or destruction of more than fifty percent of its value, as determined by the Building Official.

b. No new sign shall be approved for a site, structure, building or use that contains non-conforming signs unless such non-conforming signs are removed or modified to conform with the provisions of this title.
c. No building permit shall be issued for any structures, building expansions or new building construction on a site which contains non-conforming signs, unless all signs on the site are brought into conformance with this title. This does not include interior alterations which do not substantially change the character or intensity of the site.

Historical Signs. Signs which have historical significance to community but do not conform to the provisions of this title may be allowed to remain provided that the Planning Commission makes the following findings:
- a. The sign has historical significance for the community.
- b. The sign does not create nor cause a traffic hazard. c. The sign does not create a visual nuisance to the character of the community.
- d. The sign is properly maintained and structurally sound.
- e. The sign does not adversely affect adjacent properties.
Hardship Cases. Under cases of extreme hardship and unusual circumstances, the Planning Commission shall have the authority to allow the retention of a non-conforming sign if the Commission specifically finds that extreme hardship and unusual circumstances exist. The proponent of such request, shall have the burden of clearly demonstrating that an extreme hardship and unusual circumstances does exists and warrants the retention of such sign. The Planning Commission shall conduct a public hearing. The procedures for conducting the public hearing and application fees shall be regulated by the variance procedures and fees established by the City Zoning Ordinance.

The Planning Commission shall use the following findings for determining that an extreme and unusual circumstances exists:

a. The site has a unique character or features that causes visibility problems.
b. The sign does not create a traffic hazard.
Cc. The sign does not create a visual blight to the community.
d. The sign does not adversely affect adjacent properties.
e. The sign is properly maintained and structurally sound.
£. No other signing alternative or design would be feasible or be able to provide reasonable signing in accordance with this ordinance.

If the Planning 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 can grant a relief from the amortization of the non-conforming sign with the condition that the sign be remodeled to a more aesthetic design. If a business or shopping center, found to have the above hardship and which contains non-conforming signs, is remodeled, then the Commission shall have the authorize to request that the non-conforming signs be upgraded to match the design and architectural style of the remodeled buildings.

5. Signs Subject to Removal

The following signs which do not comply with the provisions of _ this code section shall be subject to removal upon proper notification by the City of Imperial. 1. Signs which have been installed with out building permits.|

When there is a change of business. A change of owner ship does not apply.

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When the Building Inspector has determined that there is an electrical hazard and/or the sign does not meet the provisions of the National Electric Code (NEC).

PASSED, ADOPTED AND APPROVED THIS 6th DAY OF April, 1994.

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a
me Z the City of Imperial
ATTEST:
City Clerk of the Imperial |
25
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SECTION 24.17 NONCONFORMING USES AND STRUCTURES