Irvine Municipal Code Ch. 7-3 Sign Regulations (CA)

Sec. 7-3-1. - General regulations—Signs requiring a sign permit.¶

A. Need for a sign permit. The intent of sign permits is to ensure that proposed signs meet the criteria and intent of this division as well as the specifications of any applicable sign program. A sign permit shall be required prior to placing, erecting, moving, reconstructing, changing copy on, altering, or displaying any sign types identified in this section per Chapter 2-29. See Section 7-2-1 for signs requiring a sign program.

B. Exhibits. The following exhibits provide the regulations for signs that require a sign permit. The graphic representations of letter styles, structures, and buildings are intended as illustrations only.

Located in a Residential Village: Sign Type #1

Sign Type #1	Retail/office center monument signs located in a residential village
Sign Type #2	Service station monument signs located in a residential village
Sign Type #3	Apartment monument signs located in a residential village
Sign Type #4	Neighborhood identification monument signs located in a residential village
Sign Type #5	Other monument signs located in a residential village
Sign Type #6	Project wall signs located in a residential village
Sign Type #7	Business identification wall sign on a single-occupant office building located in a residential village
Sign Type #8	Business identification wall sign on a single-occupant retail pad building with or without subtenants located in a residential village
Sign Type #9	Business identification wall sign on a service station with or without subtenants located in a residential village
Sign Type #10	Information signs at a service station located in a residential village
Sign Type #11	Business identification wall sign on a multi-occupant office building with a shared entry located in a residential village
Sign Type #12	Business identification wall sign on a multi-occupant office building with exclusive entries located in a residential village
Sign Type #13	Business identification wall sign on a multi-occupant retail pad building with exclusive entries located in a residential village
Sign Type #13A	Signs at Single-Family Residential Homes

Not Located in a Residential Village:

Sign Type #14	Retail/office center monument signs not located in a residential village
Sign Type #15	Service station monument signs not located in a residential village
Sign Type #16	Other monument signs not located in a residential village
Sign Type #17	Project wall signs not located in a residential village
Sign Type #18	Business identification wall sign on a single-occupant office building not located in a residential village
Sign Type #19	Business identification wall sign on a single-occupant retail pad building with or without subtenants not located in a residential village
Sign Type #20	Business identification wall sign at a service station with or without subtenants not located in a residential village
Sign Type #21	Information signs at a service station not located in a residential village
Sign Type #22	Business identification wall sign on a low-rise multi-occupant office building with a shared entry not located in a residential village
Sign Type #23	Business identification wall sign on a high-rise office/hotel building
Sign Type #24	Business identification wall sign on a multi-occupant office building with exclusive entries not located in a residential village
Sign Type #25	Business identification wall sign on a multi-occupant retail building with exclusive entries not located in a residential village
Sign Type #26	Auto dealer signs
Sign Type #27	Old Town Irvine

Other:

Sign Type #28	Menu boards
Sign Type #29	Project directories with site maps
Sign Type #30	Apartment leasing ground signs
Sign Type #31	Retail blade signs
Sign Type #32	Business identification awning sign on a multi-occupant retail building with exclusive entries

Temporary Signs Requiring a Permit:

Sign Type #33	Temporary future facility signs
Sign Type #34	Temporary model home identification signs
Sign Type #35	Temporary model home flags
Sign Type #36	Temporary model home directional signs
Sign Type #37	Village directional signs along arterials and freeway exits
Sign Type #38	Village directional signs along freeways

(Ord. No. 01-17, § 3, 10-19-01; Ord. No. 03-02, § 4, 1-14-03; Ord. No. 05-16, § 2, 7-12-05; Ord. No. 09-02, § 3, 3-24-09; Ord. No. 10-04, § 3, 4-13-10; Ord. No. 12-09, § 3(Exh. A), 5-22-12; Ord. No. 19-11, Exh. A, 8-13-19)

	SIGN TYPE #1 RETAIL/OFFICE CENTER MONUMENT SIGNS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign to identify a retail/office center and tenants, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Use to either identify the center exclusively; or the center and two or three on-site tenants (i.e., exclusive identification of a single tenant is not allowed). See Sign Type #2 for service station monument signs. Only allowed if Sign Type #6 (project wall sign) is not used on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On private property, 10-foot minimum from face of public street curb, 2-foot minimum from back of sidewalk. Outside of sight distance triangle. Minimum 100 feet from another ground sign, unless sign is separated by roadway or project entry.
Maximum number:	One sign per unsignalized project entry; one sign per side of signalized project entry; and one sign per street frontage with no vehicular access.
Maximum sign structure size:	6 feet high above grade at sign midpoint (9 feet high above curb); 15 feet wide.
Maximum sign panel size:	4 feet high; 10 feet wide; 40 square feet.
Sign copy:	Only name and/or symbol of retail/office center, exclusively (or name of retail/office center and two or three on-site businesses or organizations) and addresses are permitted. Exclusive identification of a single tenant is not allowed. Only symbol of retail/office center is permitted; symbols of tenants, such as store logos, are prohibited. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high for symbol; up to 18 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 4-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy only, not for sign background.
Sign design:	Pole signs (i.e., panels) mounted on exposed posts are not allowed. In PA 15 sign base must consist of 100% battered gray river rock to match the river rock at village entry signs.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign copy is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign background is prohibited. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes

	SIGN TYPE #2 SERVICE STATION MONUMENT SIGNS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign that states information regarding service stations, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed if a business identification wall sign for a service station is not located within 400 feet on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On private property, 10-foot minimum from face of public street curb, 2-foot minimum from back of sidewalk. Outside of sight distance triangle. Not within 50 feet of the intersection of two streets. Minimum 100 feet from another ground sign, unless sign is separated by roadway or project entry.
Sign orientation:	Perpendicular to curb.
Maximum number:	One sign per street frontage.
Maximum sign structure size:	5 feet high above grade at sign midpoint (7 feet high above curb); 8 feet wide
Maximum sign panel size:	4 feet high; 8 feet wide; 32 square feet.
Sign copy:	Only fuel prices and oil company name and/or symbol. (For example, not foodmart name, car wash names, fast food names, or ATM identification.) Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high for symbol; up to 18 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 4-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel. Minimum size is governed by State law.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy and for sign background around fuel prices. Plastic is prohibited for sign background around oil company identification.
Sign design:	Pole signs (i.e., panels) mounted on exposed posts are not allowed. In PA 15, sign base must consist of 100% battered gray river rock to match the river rock at village entry signs.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign copy is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign background around oil company name and/or symbol is prohibited. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes

	SIGN TYPE #3 APARTMENT MONUMENT SIGNS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign to identify an apartment neighborhood, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed if Sign Type #6 (project wall sign) is not used on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On private property, 10-foot minimum from face of public street curb, 2-foot minimum from back of sidewalk. Outside of sight distance triangle. Not in village edge. Minimum 100 feet from another ground sign, unless sign is separated by roadway or project entry.
Maximum number:	One sign on each side of project entry leading to leasing office; and one sign at other project entries.
Maximum sign structure size:	6 feet high above grade at sign midpoint (8 feet high above curb); 12 feet wide.
Maximum sign panel size:	4 feet high; 9 feet wide; 36 square feet.
Sign copy:	Only name and/or symbol of apartment neighborhood, name and/or symbol of village, and address. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high for symbol; up to 18 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 4-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy only, not for sign background.

	SIGN TYPE #1 RETAIL/OFFICE CENTER MONUMENT SIGNS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign design:	Pole signs (i.e., panels) mounted on exposed posts are not allowed. In PA 15, sign base must consist of 100% battered gray river rock to match the river rock at village entry signs.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign copy is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign background is prohibited. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #4 NEIGHBORHOOD IDENTIFICATION MONUMENT SIGNS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign to identify a condominium site, single-family detached neighborhood, or street name, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed if Sign Type #6 (project wall sign) is not used on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On private property, 10-foot minimum from face of public street curb, 2-foot minimum from back of sidewalk. Outside of sight distance triangle. Not in village edge.
Maximum number:	Two signs per major entrance or one sign per development frontage.
Maximum sign structure size:	4 feet high above grade at sign midpoint (7 feet high above curb); 8 feet wide.
Maximum sign panel size:	4 feet high; 8 feet wide; 24 square feet.
Sign copy:	Only name, symbol, address of development, or homeowners' association.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high for symbol; up to 18 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 4-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy only, not for sign background.
Sign design:	Pole signs (i.e., panels) mounted on exposed posts are not allowed. In PA 15, sign base must consist of 100% battered gray river rock to match the river rock at village entry signs.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign background is prohibited. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #5 OTHER MONUMENT SIGNS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign to identify sites other than retail/office centers and apartments, such as, but not limited to, monument signs at stand-alone retail/office buildings, annual agricultural sales, private parks, golf courses, tennis clubs, child care sites, convalescent care sites, and places of worship, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed if Sign Type #6, #7, #8, or #9 (wall signs) is not used on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On private property, 10-foot minimum from face of public street curb, 2-foot minimum from back of sidewalk. Outside of sight distance triangle. Minimum 100 feet from another ground sign, unless sign is separated by roadway or project entry.
Maximum number:	One sign per street frontage per site (i.e., not per building or per organization). For annual agricultural sales, one sign per 500 feet of frontage, up to three signs per site.
Maximum sign structure size:	5 feet high above grade at sign midpoint (7 feet high above curb); 12 feet wide.
Maximum sign panel size:	4 feet high; 10 feet wide; 40 square feet.
Sign copy:	Only business or organization's name and/or symbol, address, and hours of services at houses of worship are permitted. See Sign Type #2 for service station monument signs. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. Products and services provided and directional information, such as 'entrance 500 feet ahead,' is permitted at signs for annual agricultural sales.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high for symbol; up to 18 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 4-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy only, not for sign background.
Sign design:	Except for signs for annual agricultural sales, pole signs (i.e., panels mounted on exposed posts) are not allowed, except for signs for annual agricultural sales. In PA 15, sign base must consist of 100% battered gray river rock to match the river rock at village entry signs.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign copy is permitted, Internal-illumination of sign background is prohibited. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes

	SIGN TYPE #6 PROJECT WALL SIGNS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign to identify a retail/office center, apartment project, neighborhood, stand-alone retail/office building, hotel/motel, private park, golf course, tennis club, child care site, convalescent care site, and places of worship, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed if Sign Type #1, #3, #4 or #5 (monument signs) is not used on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line; or on project wall, but not on village theme wall. Parallel to the wall.
Criteria for maximum number, sign size, and sign copy:	Retail/office centers: Same as Sign Type #1.
Criteria for maximum number, sign size, and sign copy:	Apartment projects: Same as Sign Type #3 except that one sign is allowed on each side on a project entry that has walls.
Criteria for maximum number, sign size, and sign copy:	Neighborhood: Same as Sign Type #4, but up to 6 feet high.
Criteria for maximum number, sign size, and sign copy:	Other sites: Same as Sign Type #5.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high for symbol; up to 18 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms.

	SIGN TYPE #1 RETAIL/OFFICE CENTER MONUMENT SIGNS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Maximum character size:	Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections.
Sign material:	Individual letters and/or symbol. Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Use of exposed neon, if not visible from the street or adjacent residential development, is subject to approval of a sign program by the Planning Commission. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #7 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A SINGLE-OCCUPANT OFFICE BUILDING LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a single-occupant office building, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant of a single-occupant building in a multi-building complex, if Sign Type #5 (monument sign) is not used on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	Two signs per building, but not on the same building elevation or at same building corner.
Maximum sign size:	1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of building frontage.
Maximum sign height:	34 inches for one line of copy; 48 inches for two lines of copy; 68 inches for three or more lines of copy. Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign as located no closer than one-half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	34 inches, if building is one or two stories high.
Maximum character height:	34 inches for letters and 54 inches for symbols, if the building is 3 stories high.
Maximum character height:	36 inches for letters and 58 inches for symbols, if building is 4 or more stories high.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #8 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A SINGLE-OCCUPANT RETAIL PAD BUILDING WITH OR WITHOUT SUBTENANTS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a single-occupant retail pad building (but not a service station), located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant of a single-occupant pad building in a multi-building complex, if Sign Type #5 (monument sign) is not used on the same frontage; and subtenants without exclusive entries, such as an ice cream vendor in a fast food outlet.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	Three signs per building, but not on the same building elevation or within 20 feet of the same building corner.
Maximum sign size:	1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of building frontage. Except for white, building colors that are identical to a logo color are considered part of the sign area.
Maximum sign height:	34 inches for one line of copy; 48 inches for two lines of copy; 68 inches for three or more lines of copy. Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one-half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). (If part of a sign program, generic products and services may be identified.) Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	34 inches.

	SIGN TYPE #1 RETAIL/OFFICE CENTER MONUMENT SIGNS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Use of exposed neon, if not visible from the street or adjacent residential development, is subject to approval of a sign program by the Planning Commission. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #9 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A SERVICE STATION WITH OR WITHOUT SUBTENANTS LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a service station, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant(s) of a service station and subtenants without exclusive entries, such as a fast food outlet in a convenience store at a service station.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	Two signs per building, but not on the same building elevation or within 20 feet of the same building corner. Plus, two signs per fuel canopy, but not on same canopy elevation or within 20 feet of the same canopy corner.
Maximum sign size:	1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of building frontage, and up to 20 square feet for a sign on a fuel canopy. Except for white, building colors that are identical to a logo color are considered part of the sign area.
Maximum sign height:	24 inches for a sign on a fuel canopy; other signs; 34 inches for one line of copy; 48 inches for two lines of copy; 68 inches for three or more lines of copy. Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). (If part of a sign program, generic products and services may be identified.) Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	24 inches for a sign on a fuel canopy; 34 inches for signs on a building.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Use of exposed neon, if not visible from the street or adjacent residential development, is subject to approval of a sign program by the Planning Commission. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #10 INFORMATION SIGNS AT A SERVICE STATION LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent sign at a service station fuel pump, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	To indicate oil company name and/or symbol, number of the pump, the grade of fuel, whether the pump is for self service or full service, and to provide safety information.
Sign location:	At fuel pump. Not attached to canopy columns.
Maximum number:	One per side of pump for each item listed above under "sign use."
Maximum sign size:	5 inches high.
Maximum sign height:	5 inches high.
Sign copy:	Only oil company name and/or symbol, number of the pump, the grade of fuel, whether the pump is for self service or full service, and to provide safety information. Signs advertising items or services for sale are prohibited. Signs advertising the name of the proprietor are prohibited.
Maximum character height:	5 inches.
Sign material:	Vinyl.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

The following signs are not allowed at service stations: banners; pennants, except for Sign Type #40 as approved by the Director of Community Development; flags; portable signs; signs attached to light poles, planters, waste receptacles, and telephone booths; and advertising video displays.

	SIGN TYPE #11 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A MULTI-OCCUPANT OFFICE BUILDING WITH A SHARED ENTRY LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a multi-occupant office building with a shared exterior entrance, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant of a multi-occupant building.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	Two eyebrow signs per building elevation, or one parapet sign and eyebrow sign per building elevation; but only one parapet sign within 20 feet of the same building corner.
Maximum sign size:	Parapet sign: 1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of building frontage.
Maximum sign size:	Eyebrow sign: Up to 40 square feet.
Maximum parapet sign height:	34 inches for one line of copy; 48 inches for two lines of copy; 68 inches for three or more lines of copy. Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Maximum eyebrow sign height:	18 inches with one-half tallest letter of blank wall space around sign copy.
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	Parapet sign: 34 inches, if building is one or two stories high. 34 inches for letters and 54 inches for symbols, if building is 3 stories high. 36 inches for letters and 58 inches for symbols, if building is 4 stories high.
	Eyebrow sign: 18 inches.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #12 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A MULTI-OCCUPANT OFFICE BUILDING WITH EXCLUSIVE ENTRIES LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a multi-occupant office building with exclusive exterior entrances, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant of a multi-occupant office building.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	One sign per lease space.
Maximum sign size:	1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of building frontage.
Maximum sign height:	24 inches blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	24 inches.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #13 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A MULTI-OCCUPANT RETAIL PAD BUILDING WITH EXCLUSIVE ENTRIES LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a multi-occupant retail building with exclusive exterior entrances, located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant of a multi-occupant retail building.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	One sign per frontage per lease space.
Maximum sign size:	1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of building frontage.

	SIGN TYPE #11 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A MULTI-OCCUPANT OFFICE BUILDING WITH A SHARED ENTRY LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Maximum sign height:	24 inches blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). (If part of a sign program, generic products and services may be identified.) Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	24 inches.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Use of exposed neon, if not visible from the street or adjacent residential development, is subject to approval of a sign program by the Planning Commission. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #13A SIGNS AT SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL HOMES
Sign purpose:	All commercial signs are prohibited on single-family residential properties, except Temporary Residential Real Estate Signs (105). All noncommercial signs on single-family residential properties must comply with this provision, except residential wall signs (102) and temporary noncommercial signs (107). This provision does not apply to signs on vehicles. This provision does not apply to noncommercial signs in non-residential areas or other residential areas not designated for single-family housing. This provision applies to standalone signs (e.g., ground signs) at single-family residential homes as well as signs that are painted on or otherwise attached to buildings, walls, or gates.
Sign use:	To display noncommercial messages.
Sign location:	On private single-family residential property with owner's consent.
Sign size:	12 square feet in size. Signs under 2 square feet in size are exempt from this provision.
Maximum sign height:	6 feet above grade. 20 feet above grade for signs attached to or painted on buildings or walls.
Sign material:	Wood, metal, paint, paper.
Sign copy:	Only non-commercial messages.
Sign illumination:	Prohibited.
Sign installation and removal:	Signs under this provision may be displayed for no more than 150 days each calendar year. The 150-day period shall run from the day after a permit is obtained from the City for the display of a sign. No signs shall be installed pursuant to this provision unless a permit is obtained from the City. Signs in violation of this provision shall be subject to citation and removal pursuant to the provisions of this Code.
Permit required:	Yes.
Amortization:	Signs in single-family residential neighborhoods currently not in compliance with this provision at the adoption of this provision shall be considered a valid nonconforming use and must be removed according to the following amortization schedule. All non-conforming signs pursuant to this provision shall be subject to notice and order for removal or compliance after a period of one year has elapsed from the date of the City's adoption of this provision.

(Ord. No. 19-11, Exh. A, 8-13-19)

	SIGN TYPE #14 RETAIL/OFFICE CENTER MONUMENT SIGNS NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign to identify a retail/office center and tenants, not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Used to either identify the center exclusively; or the center and two or three on-site tenants (i.e., exclusive identification of a single tenant is not allowed). See Sign Type #15 for service station monument signs. Only allowed if Sign Type #17 (project wall sign) is not used on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On private property, 10-foot minimum from face of public street curb, 2-foot minimum from back of sidewalk. Outside of sight distance triangle. Minimum 100 feet from another ground sign, unless sign is separated by roadway or project entry.
Maximum number:	One sign per unsignalized project entry; one sign per side of signalized project entry; one sign per street frontage with no vehicular access; and one sign per freeway frontage.
Maximum sign structure size:	10 feet high above grade at sign midpoint (12 feet high above curb); 15 feet wide.
Maximum sign panel size:	8 feet high; 10 feet wide; 80 square feet.
Sign copy:	Only name and/or symbol of retail/office center, exclusively (or name of retail/office center and two or three on-site business or organizations), and addresses are permitted. Exclusive identification of a single tenant is not allowed. Only symbol of retail/office center is permitted; symbols of tenants, such as store logos, are prohibited. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high for symbol; up to 18 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 4 inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy only, not for sign background.
Sign design:	Pole signs (i.e., panels mounted on exposed posts) are not allowed.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign copy is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign background is prohibited. Exposed neon is only allowed at retail and entertainment uses, if not facing a residential project located in a residential village. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes

	SIGN TYPE #15 SERVICE STATION MONUMENT SIGNS NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign that states information regarding service stations, not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed if a business identification wall sign for a service station is not located within 400 feet on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On private property, 10-foot minimum from face of public street curb, 2-foot minimum from back of sidewalk. Outside of sight distance triangle. Not within 50 feet of the intersection of two streets. Minimum 100 feet from another ground sign, unless sign is separated by roadway or project entry.
Sign orientation:	Perpendicular to curb.
Maximum number:	One sign per street frontage.
Maximum sign structure size:	7 feet high above grade at sign midpoint (9 feet high above curb); 8 feet wide
Maximum sign panel size:	5 feet high; 8 feet wide; 40 square feet.
Sign copy:	Fuel prices, oil company name and/or symbol, foodmart name, car wash name, fast food names, and ATM identification. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high for symbol; up to 18 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 4-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel. Minimum size is governed by State law.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy and for sign background around fuel prices. Plastic is prohibited for sign background around business identification.
Sign design:	Pole signs (i.e., panels mounted on exposed posts) are not allowed.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign copy is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign background around business name and/or symbol is prohibited. Exposed neon is allowed if not facing a residential project located in a residential village. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes

	SIGN TYPE #16 OTHER MONUMENT SIGNS NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign to identify sites other than retail/office centers, such as, but not limited to, monument signs at residential projects, stand-alone retail/office buildings, hotels/motels, private parks, golf courses, tennis clubs, child care sites, and places of worship; and to identify on-site uses (i.e., project directories without maps), not located in a residential village. For project directories with maps, see Sign Type #29.
Sign use:	Only allowed if Sign Type #17, #18, #19, or #20 (wall signs) is not used on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On private property, 10-foot minimum from face of public street curb, 2-foot minimum from back of sidewalk. Outside of sight distance triangle. Minimum 100 feet from another ground sign, unless sign is separated by roadway or project entry. Directory signs: set back a minimum of 50 feet from curb of project's perimeter street.
Maximum number:	Apartment projects: One identification sign on each side of project entry leading to leasing office; and one identification sign at other project entries.
Maximum number:	Other sites: One identification sign per street frontage per site (i.e., not per building or per business or organization). One directory sign per project entry. One directory sign per main building entrance at a multi-occupant building with a shared entrance.

	SIGN TYPE #14 RETAIL/OFFICE CENTER MONUMENT SIGNS NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Maximum sign structure size:	Identification signs: 6 feet high above grade at midpoint (9 feet above curb); 15 feet wide.
Maximum sign panel size:	Identification signs: 4 feet high; 15 feet wide; 60 square feet.
Maximum sign panel size:	Directory signs: 4 feet high; 4 feet wide; 16 square feet at sites of 5 acres or less 8 feet high; 8 feet wide; 32 square feet at sites of more than 5 acres.
Sign copy:	Apartment projects: Only name and/or symbol of apartment neighborhood, name and/or symbol of village, and address.
	Other sites: Only business or organization's name and/or symbol, address, and hours of worship services are permitted. See Sign Type #15 for service station monument signs.
	Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high for symbol; up to 18 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 4-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy only, not for sign background.
Sign design:	Pole signs (i.e., panels mounted on exposed posts) are not allowed.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign copy is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign background is prohibited. Exposed neon is only allowed at retail and entertainment uses, if not facing a residential project located in a residential village. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #17 PROJECT WALL SIGNS NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign to identify a retail/office center, apartment project, stand-alone retail/office building, private park, golf course, tennis club, child care site, convalescent care site, and places of worship, not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed if Sign Type #14 or #16 (monument signs) is not used on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line; or on project wall. Parallel to the wall.
Criteria for maximum number, sign size, and sign copy:	Retail/office centers: Same as Sign Type #14.
Criteria for maximum number, sign size, and sign copy:	Other sites: Same as Sign Type #16.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high for symbol; up to 18 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms.
Maximum character size:	Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections.
Sign material:	Individual letters and/or symbol. Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Exposed neon is only allowed at retail and entertainment uses, if not facing a residential project located in a residential village. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #18 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A SINGLE-OCCUPANT OFFICE BUILDING NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a single-occupant office building, not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant of a single-occupant building in a multi-building complex. if Sign Type #16 (monument sign) is not used on the same frontage.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	Two signs per building, but not on same building elevation or within 20 feet of the same building corner.
Maximum sign size:	1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of building frontage.
Maximum sign height:	34 inches for one line of copy; 48 inches for two lines of copy; 68 inches for three or more lines of copy. Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	34 inches, if building is one or two stories high.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #19 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A SINGLE-OCCUPANT RETAIL PAD BUILDING WITH OR WITHOUT SUBTENANTS NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE

	SIGN TYPE #14 RETAIL/OFFICE CENTER MONUMENT SIGNS NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a single-occupant retail pad building (but not a service station), not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant of a single-occupant retail pad building in a multi-building complex, if Sign type #16 (monument sign) is not used on the same frontage, and subtenants without exclusive entries, such as ice cream vendor in a fast food outlet.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	Three signs per building, but not on same building elevation or within 20 feet of the same building corner.
Maximum sign size:	1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of building frontage. Except for white, building colors that are identical to a logo color are considered part of the sign area.
Maximum sign height:	34 inches for one line of copy; 48 inches for two lines of copy; 68 inches for three or more lines of copy. Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). (If part of a sign program, generic products and services may be identified.) Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	34 inches.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Exposed receways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #20 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN AT A SERVICE STATION WITH OR WITHOUT SUBTENANTS NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a service station, not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant(s) of a service station if Sign Type #16 (monument sign) is not used; and subtenants without exclusive entries, such as a fast food outlet in a convenience store at a service station.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	Two signs per building, but not on same building elevation or within 20 feet of the same building corner. Plus two signs per fuel canopy, but not on same canopy elevation or within 20 feet of the same canopy corner.
Maximum sign size:	1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of building frontage; and up to 20 square feet for a sign on a fuel canopy. Except for white, building colors that are identical to a logo color are considered part of the sign area.
Maximum sign height:	24 inches for a sign on a fuel canopy; other signs; 34 inches for one line of copy; 48 inches for two lines of copy; 68 inches for three or more lines of copy. Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). (If part of a sign program, generic products and services may be identified.) Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	24 inches for a sign on a fuel canopy; 34 inches for signs on a building.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Use of exposed neon, if not visible from the street or adjacent residential development, is subject to approval of a sign program by the Planning Commission. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.
	SIGN TYPE #21 INFORMATION SIGNS AT A SERVICE STATION NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE

	SIGN TYPE #14 RETAIL/OFFICE CENTER MONUMENT SIGNS NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent sign at a service station fuel pump, not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	To indicate oil company name, number of the pump, the grade of fuel, whether the pump is for self service or full service, and to provide safety information.
Sign location:	At fuel pump. Not attached to canopy columns.
Maximum number:	One per side of pump for each item listed above under "sign use."
Maximum sign size:	5 inches high.
Maximum sign height:	5 inches high.
Sign copy:	Only oil company name and/or symbol, number of the pump, the grade of fuel, whether the pump is for self service or full service, and to provide safety information. Signs advertising items or services for sale are prohibited. Signs advertising the name of the proprietor are prohibited.
Maximum character height:	5 inches.
Sign material:	Vinyl.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #22 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A LOW-RISE, MULTI-OCCUPANT OFFICE BUILDING WITH A SHARED ENTRY NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign not located in a residential village at a one story or two story, multi-occupant office building with a shared exterior entrance not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant of a multi-occupant building.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	Two eyebrow signs per building elevation, or one parapet sign and eyebrow sign per building elevation; but only one parapet sign within 20 feet of the same building corner.
Maximum sign size:	Parapet sign: 1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of building frontage.
Maximum sign size:	Eyebrow sign: Up to 40 square feet.
Maximum parapet sign height:	34 inches for one line of copy; 48 inches for two lines of copy; 68 inches for three or more lines of copy. Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Maximum eyebrow sign height:	18 inches with one-half tallest letter of blank wall space around sign copy.
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	Parapet sign: 34 inches.
Maximum character height:	Eyebrow sign: 18 inches.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #23 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A HIGH-RISE OFFICE/HOTEL BUILDING
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at an office or hotel building which is greater than two stories high.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify a building occupant.
Sign location:	Parapet sign: On building wall above top row of windows. Parallel to the wall.
Sign location:	Eyebrow sign: On building wall between row of windows on first floor and row of windows on second floor. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	Parapet sign: Two signs per building on opposite elevations.
Maximum number:	Eyebrow sign: Four signs per building.
Maximum parapet sign size:	Up to 80% of frontage; and up to:

Building Height	Maximum Letter Height	Maximum Symbol Height	Sign Area Per Elevation
3 stories	34 inches	54 inches	175 square feet
4 stories	36 inches	58 inches	200 square feet
5 stories	40 inches	64 inches	225 square feet
6 stories	45 inches	72 inches	250 square feet
7 stories	50 inches	80 inches	275 square feet
8—9 stories	60 inches	96 inches	300 square feet
10—12 stories	72 inches	108 inches	350 square feet
13—15 stories	84 inches	120 inches	400 square feet
16+ stories	96 inches or as determined by sign program	132 inches or as determined by sign program	450 square feet or as determined by sign program

	Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Maximum eyebrow sign height:	Up to 40 square feet and up to 18 inches with one-half tallest letter of blank wall space around sign copy.
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #24 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A MULTI-OCCUPANT OFFICE BUILDING WITH EXCLUSIVE ENTRIES NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a multi-occupant building with exclusive exterior entrances, not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant of a multi-occupant building.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	One sign per lease space.
Maximum sign size:	1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of frontage or as allowed by a sign program.
Maximum sign height:	24 inches blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	24 inches.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #25 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION WALL SIGN ON A MULTI-OCCUPANT RETAIL BUILDING WITH EXCLUSIVE ENTRIES NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at a multi-occupant retail building with exclusive exterior entrances, not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify the occupant of a multi-occupant retail building.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line. Parallel to the wall.
Maximum number:	One sign per frontage per lease space.
Maximum sign size:	1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage up to 200 square feet and up to 80% of frontage or as allowed by a sign program.
Maximum sign height:	24 inches. Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Maximum eyebrow sign height:	18 inches with one-half tallest letter of blank wall space around sign copy.

	Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign copy:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Subtenants may be identified if part of a sign program and if located in a lease space with more than 250 feet of frontage (e.g., bank located in a supermarket). Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. An independent business logo may be displayed on a building elevation only if the individual letters of the business name are displayed on the building elevation(s) visible from the main or major roadways. Any sign displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character height:	24 inches.
Sign material:	Only individual letters of a business name or individual letters and adjacent logo (with or without text). Cabinet signs, can signs, and cloud signs are not allowed, except for minor cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds that are adjacent to larger individual letters, maximum size 5 square feet. Text may be allowed within the logo only if text is part of the official business name.
Sign illumination:	Internally- or externally-illuminated. Use of exposed neon, if not visible from the street or adjacent residential development, is subject to approval of a sign program by the Planning Commission. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #26 AUTO DEALER SIGNS
Sign #26A: (1) 75-foot high, illuminated Auto Center identification pylon sign, located on Auto Center Drive adjacent to I-5 Freeway, maximum 1,100 square feet per sign face, with a static Auto Center identification panel and a full color, electronic, LED digital display providing Auto Center information, public service messages, and Caltrans information, consistent with Caltrans regulations (e.g. minimum four [4] second message duration with instant transitions), with color light emitting diodes (red, green, and blue). This sign may display off-premises advertising up to 25 percent of the total time and shall reserve up to 10 percent of the total time for public service messages issued by the City of Irvine.
Sign #26B: (6) 10-foot high, illuminated center identification monument signs, located at southeast and southwest corners of Rockfield/McLaren, Rockfield/Oldfield, and Rockfield/Revson with a permanent sign panel stating "Irvine Auto Center" without a description of the uses, tenants, or businesses. Maximum 200 square feet per sign face for the signs at Rockfield/McLaren. Maximum 80 square feet per sign face for the other four signs.
Sign #26C: 12-foot high, illuminated dealer identification monument sign, maximum 80 square feet per sign face; (2) signs per parcels with up to 749 linear feet of street frontage, exclusive of Rockfield (maximum 100 square feet of total sign area per parcel); (3) signs per parcels with 750 to 999 linear feet of street frontage, exclusive of Rockfield (maximum 150 square feet of total sign area per parcel); and (4) signs per parcels with 1,000 linear feet or more of street frontage, exclusive of Rockfield (maximum 200 square feet of total sign area per parcel). Signs may not be located closer than 150 feet of each other and no closer than 75 feet of the common property line.
Sign #26D: (1) 6-foot high, illuminated service ground sign per main street, maximum 50 square feet per sign face.

	Blank space around the sign copy equal to one-half the height of the tallest letter must be provided. This space must occur on the same wall surface without interruption by reveals or projections. (Exceptions to the maximum sign height may be granted for registered trademarks, if the average sign height is no greater than the maximum permitted sign height and if the sign is located no closer than one half average letter height to any building edge.)
Sign #26E: (2) 6-foot high, non-illuminated service ground signs, maximum 27 square feet per sign face at project entries.
Sign #26F: (3) 6-foot high, illuminated service ground signs, maximum 13 square feet per sign face at project entries.
Sign #26G: (1) 36-inch high, illuminated dealer identification wall sign per street frontage, maximum one-half height of the mounting surface. Trade name or brand logo only.
Sign #26H: (1) 36-inch high, illuminated secondary franchise identification wall sign per street frontage, maximum 25 square feet. Trade name or brand logo only.
Sign #26I: (1) 30-inch high, illuminated service wall sign per business, maximum 35 square feet. Trade name or brand logo only.
Sign #26J: 4-foot high, non-illuminated directional ground sign, maximum 4 square feet. Directional information, such as entrance, exit, service, and parts, only.
Sign #26K: (1) illuminated information wall sign per street frontage, maximum 6 square feet. Information, such as service and parts, only. No advertising is allowed.
A permit is required for all Signs #26A through #26K.
Note: Signs with translucent faces are allowed within the Auto Center

(Ord. No. 18-03, Exh. A, 2-27-18; Ord. No. 24-06, Exh. A, 5-28-24)

	SIGN TYPE #27 OLD TOWN IRVINE

Signs in Old Town Irvine.

The following signs are allowed:

Sign #27A: (1) illuminated commercial center identification monument sign per site on I-5 Freeway, listing the name of the center and not more than three "major" tenants in the sign program subject to Planning Commission approval. A sign permit is required.

Other signs in Old Town Irvine: Use the regulations for applicable sign types in this ordinance.

The boundaries of Old Town Irvine are depicted below.

[Figure]

	SIGN TYPE #28 MENU BOARDS
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign which provides information regarding product pricing at drive-through lanes.
Sign use:	Single-sided sign used only for menu identification for drivers in drive-thru lane, not for off-site business identification or advertising.
Sign location:	On private property.
Sign location:	Outside of sight distance triangle.
Sign location:	Behind perimeter hedge, berm, or screen wall.
Sign location:	Text not visible from the public right-of-way.
Landscaping:	Landscape screening is required between the sign and the public street.
Maximum number:	Two signs per drive-thru lane.
Maximum sign size:	7 feet high above grade at midpoint of sign.
Maximum sign size:	8 feet wide.
Maximum sign size:	Up to 56 square feet.
Sign copy:	Only menu information. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 4 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 2-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy only, not for sign background.
Sign design:	Pole signs (i.e., panels mounted on exposed posts) are not allowed. Permanent and temporary signs attached to the menu board are not permitted.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign copy is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign background is prohibited. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes

	SIGN TYPE #29 PROJECT DIRECTORIES WITH SITE MAPS
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign or wall sign which provides information regarding addresses in residential neighborhoods; names and locations of tenants at retail centers or office sites; or services and programs at institutional uses.
Sign use:	Only for identifying locations of on-site uses.
Sign location:	Residential use: At project entry, 50-foot minimum from curb of project's perimeter street. Outside of sight distance triangle.
Sign location:	Nonresidential use: At pedestrian areas near buildings. Outside of sight distance triangle.
Maximum number:	Residential use: As needed to provide adequate unit addresses and information.
Maximum number:	Nonresidential use: For each multi-tenant building, one sign is permitted per street, parking areas and/or pedestrian frontage.
Maximum sign size:	Site of 5 acres or less: 4 feet high above grade at midpoint of sign. 4 feet wide. Up to 16 square feet.
Maximum sign size:	Site of more than 5 acres: 8 feet high above grade at midpoint of sign. 8 feet wide. Up to 32 square feet.
Sign copy:	Maps with addresses at apartment sites, names and locations of tenants at retail centers or office sites, or services and programs at institutional uses. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 8 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 2-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy only, not for sign background.
Sign design:	Pole signs (i.e., panels mounted on exposed posts) are not allowed. The size, letterstyle, material, and color or all site maps on the same site must match.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign copy is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign background is prohibited. Exposed neon is prohibited. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #30 APARTMENT LEASING GROUND SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign which provides apartment leasing information.
Sign use:	Only allowed for apartment leasing information.
Sign location:	On private property. Outside of sight distance triangle. Minimum 100 feet from another ground sign, unless sign is separated by roadway or project entry.
Maximum number:	One sign, consisting of one post with one double-sided sign panel, per street frontage; maximum 2 signs per site. In PA 4, two signs, each consisting of one post with up to four double-sided sign panels, per street frontage; maximum 4 signs per site.
Maximum sign size:	12 feet high; 3 feet wide; up to 12 square feet per sign panel.
Sign copy:	Only leasing information, including arrows, is permitted. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 8 inches high for letters, numbers, and letterforms; with a 2-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Smooth, durable, non-weathering sign panel with silk screen or die cut lettering and graphics on an aluminum tube post. Posts must be painted tubular aluminum. Wood, steel and prepunched galvanized U-posts are not acceptable. No balloons, streamers, or other temporary attachments are permitted.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	Yes

(Ord. No. 22-12, § 3(Exh. A), 8-9-22)

	SIGN TYPE #31 RETAIL BLADE SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Permanent sign which projects from a wall or hangs from a ceiling.
Sign use:	To identify a store to a pedestrian.
Sign location:	At public entrance to a store, oriented perpendicular to storefront.
Sign location:	Min. Seven feet six inches above ground level.
Sign location:	Max. Twenty feet zero inches above ground level or the parapet, whichever is less.
Maximum number:	One sign per public entrance per lease space in retail center.
Maximum sign size:	4 feet high.
Maximum sign size:	10 feet wide.
Maximum sign size:	10 square feet.
Sign copy:	Only store name and symbol. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	12 inches with a 2-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Metal or wood.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #32 BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION AWNING SIGN ON A MULTI-OCCUPANT RETAIL BUILDING WITH EXCLUSIVE ENTRIES
Sign purpose:	Permanent sign applied to an awning at a multi-occupant retail building with exclusive exterior entrances.
Sign use:	As a replacement for business identification sign at a retail building, to be used instead of Sign Type #12 or #24.
Sign location:	On awning.
Maximum number:	Same as criteria for Sign Type #12 or #24.
Maximum sign size:	Same as criteria for Sign Type #12 or #24.
Sign copy:	Only store name and symbol.
Maximum character size:	Same as criteria for Sign Type #12 or #24.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #33 TEMPORARY FUTURE FACILITY SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Temporary ground sign which identifies the future use of a site and related information, including the contractor's name.
Sign use:	Only allowed at a site before and during construction; and up to 6 months after certificate of occupancy issued.
Sign location:	On site, not in public right-of-way.
Sign location:	Outside of sight distance triangles.
Sign location:	Not obstructing regulatory signs or traffic signal controllers.
Maximum number:	One sign per street frontage, but not at the same corner.
Maximum sign size:	12 feet high.
Maximum sign size:	8 feet wide.
Maximum sign size:	96 square feet.
Sign copy:	Name of future use and related information, including phone numbers; web site addresses, statements such as "Coming Fall 20XX," and the contractor's name; Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ®, ™, "for lease," "now available," or similar derivations are prohibited.
Maximum Character size:	18 inches high.
Sign material:	Wood or metal.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	Yes

	SIGN TYPE #34 TEMPORARY MODEL HOME IDENTIFICATION SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Temporary ground sign which identifies a model home complex.
Sign use:	Only allowed while a model home complex exists.
Sign location:	Along street, but not in public right-of-way.
Sign location:	Outside of sight distance triangles.
Sign location:	Not obstructing regulatory signs or traffic signal controllers.
Maximum number:	Two signs per street frontage with access to the model home complex.
Maximum sign size:	6 feet high above grade at midpoint of sign.
Maximum sign size:	10 feet wide.
Maximum sign size:	60 square feet.
Sign copy:	Name and symbol of village, residential project, and homebuilder. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	24 inches high.
Permit required?	Yes.

	SIGN TYPE #35 TEMPORARY MODEL HOME FLAGS
Sign purpose:	Temporary ground sign which identifies location of a model home complex.
Sign use:	Only allowed while a model home complex exists.
Sign location:	Along street frontage leading to a model home complex.
Maximum number:	Ten per model home complex.
Maximum sign size:	20 feet high.
Maximum flag size:	20 square feet.
Sign copy:	None.
Logo:	None.
Sign material:	Metal pole with flag of fabric, vinyl, or similar material.
Color:	Single solid color
Sign illumination:	None.
Sign removal:	Flags shall be removed when model home complex no longer exists.
Permit required?	Yes

	SIGN TYPE #36 TEMPORARY MODEL HOME DIRECTIONAL SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Temporary ground sign which provides directions to a model home complex (and to an apartment complex, for the life of the sign).
Sign use:	Only allowed while a model home complex exists.
Sign location:	In, or adjacent to, village where model home complexes are located.
Sign location:	In public right-of-way; or on private property with owner's consent.
Sign location:	Outside of sight distance triangles.
Sign location:	Not obstructing regulatory signs or traffic signal controllers.
Maximum number:	One sign per change in direction from perimeter of village to model home complex.
Maximum sign size:	6 feet high above grade at midpoint of sign.
Maximum sign size:	6 feet wide.
Maximum sign size:	36 square feet.
Sign copy:	Name and symbol of village and the names of residential for-sale projects and apartment complexes in that village; and directional information, including arrows. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	12 inches high.
Sign material:	Wood or metal.
Sign illumination:	None.
Sign removal:	Signs shall be removed when model home complex no longer exists.

	SIGN TYPE #31 RETAIL BLADE SIGNS
Permit required?	Yes

	SIGN TYPE #37 VILLAGE DIRECTIONAL SIGNS ALONG ARTERIALS AND FREEWAYS EXITS
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign located adjacent to arterial highways and freeway/toll road exits.
Sign use:	To direct motorists to villages under development.
Sign location at freeway exit:	On private property, with permission of owner.
Sign location at freeway exit:	Outside of sight distance triangle.
Sign location at freeway exit:	Minimum 100 feet from another ground sign, unless sign is separated by roadway or project entry.
Sign location at arterial:	In public right-of-way and/or on private property.
Sign location at arterial:	Outside of sight distance triangle.
Maximum number:	One sign between major intersections on arterial.
Maximum number:	One sign at exit.
Maximum sign height:	10 feet high above grade at right-of-way line.
Maximum sign size:	6 feet wide and up to 60 square feet for a multi-destination sign.
Maximum sign size:	4.5 feet wide and up to 13.5 square feet for a single-destination sign.
Sign copy:	Names of Irvine villages under development, names of sectors in PA 4 under development, Homefinding Center, Irvine Chamber of Commerce, and directional information. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 12 inches high.
Sign material:	Metal or wood panels with vinyl letters.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	Yes

	SIGN TYPE #38 VILLAGE DIRECTIONAL SIGNS ALONG FREEWAYS
Sign purpose:	Permanent ground sign located adjacent to freeways and toll roads.
Sign use:	To direct motorists to villages under development.
Sign location:	On private property.
Sign location:	Outside of sight distance triangle.
Maximum number:	One sign between exits.
Maximum sign size:	23.5 feet high above grade at right-of-way line.
Maximum sign size:	30 feet wide.
Maximum sign size:	Up to 705 square feet.
Sign copy:	Names of Irvine villages under development, names of sectors in PA 4 under development, Homefinding Center, and directional information. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	Up to 24 inches high.
Sign material:	Metal or wood panels with vinyl letters.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	Yes

Exceptions & meaning →

Sec. 7-3-2. - General regulations—Signs requiring a temporary banner permit.¶

A. Need for a temporary banner permit. The intent of the temporary banner permit requirement is to ensure that proposed signs meet the criteria and intent of this division, as well as the specifications of any applicable sign program. A temporary banner permit shall be required prior to placing, erecting, moving, reconstruction, changing copy on, altering, or displaying the sign types identified in this section.

B. Exhibits. The following exhibits provide the regulations for signs that require a temporary banner sign. The graphic representations of letter styles, structures, and buildings are intended as illustrations only.

Sign Type #39	Temporary (ground-mounted) event banners
Sign Type #40	Temporary (wall-mounted) event banners
Sign Type #41	Temporary (wall-mounted) business identification banners/signs.
Sign Type #42	Temporary banners for seasonal retail uses
Sign Type #43	Temporary banners for annual agriculture sales uses
Sign Type #44	Temporary banners for nonprofit uses
Sign Type #45	Temporary streetlight banner signs

(Ord. No. 05-16, § 2, 7-12-05; Ord. No. 09-02, § 3, 3-24-09; Ord. No. 11-09, Exh. A, 8-23-11; Ord. No. 23-13, § 3(Exh. A), 7-11-23)

	SIGN TYPE #39 TEMPORARY (GROUND-MOUNTED) EVENT BANNERS
Sign purpose:	Temporary ground-mounted sign intended to inform the public of a unique event, such as, but not limited to, a grand opening.
Sign use:	Retail centers may display a temporary banner (Sign Types #39 and #40 inclusive) for up to four periods per year not to exceed a total of 40 calendar days per year. A separate permit is required for each period a temporary banner is displayed.
Sign location:	On private property with owner's consent.
Maximum number:	One per street frontage.
Maximum sign size:	30 square feet.
Sign copy:	Retail center name, commercial center logo, title of event, and dates, days or time. Banner text may not include individual tenant names or symbols, prices, telephone numbers, web site address, leasing information, or specific items for sale. Brand names and information which makes the banner appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. Any banner displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character size:	None.
Sign material:	Vinyl, nylon, canvas, or cloth.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit requirements:	A temporary banner permit shall be requested on the appropriate form and will be approved for such general use by the Director of Community Development.
Sign removal:	The temporary banner permit applicant shall be responsible for the removal of the temporary banner upon expiration of the time limit.

	SIGN TYPE #40 TEMPORARY (WALL-MOUNTED) EVENT BANNERS
Sign Type:	Temporary wall-mounted sign intended to inform the public of a unique event, such as, but not limited to, a grand opening.
Sign use:	Business or commercial centers may display a temporary banner (Sign Types #39 and #40 inclusive) for up to four periods per year not to exceed a total of 40 calendar days per year. A separate permit is required for each period a temporary banner is displayed.
Sign location:	On wall of building. May not be located on roof of building, in a window, or attached to landscaping or light poles.
Maximum number:	One per street or parking lot frontage.
Maximum sign size:	30 square feet.
Sign copy:	Business or commercial center name, business or commercial center logo, title of event, and dates, days or time. Banner text may not include prices, telephone numbers, web site address, leasing information, or specific items for sale. Brand names and information which makes the banner appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. Any banner displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character size:	None.
Sign material:	Vinyl, nylon, canvas, or cloth.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit requirements:	A temporary banner permit shall be requested on the appropriate form and will be approved for such general use by the Director of Community Development.
Sign removal:	The temporary banner permit applicant shall be responsible for the removal of the temporary banner upon expiration of the time limit.

	SIGN TYPE #41 TEMPORARY (WALL-MOUNTED) BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION BANNERS
Sign Type:	Temporary wall-mounted sign intended to inform the public of a new business name for a maximum of 40 days until a permanent sign is installed.
Sign use:	Businesses may display a temporary banner for a maximum of 40 days until a permanent sign is installed. The 40-day period may be extended with City approval.
Sign location:	Same as criteria for permanent wall sign.
Maximum number:	Same as criteria for permanent wall sign.
Maximum sign size:	Same as criteria for permanent wall sign.
Sign copy:	Same as criteria for permanent wall sign.
Maximum character size:	Same as criteria for permanent wall sign.
Sign material:	Vinyl, nylon, canvas, or cloth. Color of banner background must match wall color.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit requirements:	A temporary banner permit shall be requested on the appropriate form and will be approved for such general use by the Director of Community Development.
Permit requirements:	The temporary banner permit applicant shall be responsible for the removal of the temporary banner upon expiration of the time limit.

	SIGN TYPE #42 TEMPORARY BANNERS FOR SEASONAL RETAIL USES
Sign Type:	Temporary commercial sign intended to identify seasonal sales uses and products such as Christmas trees or Halloween costumes for sale to the public at a temporary location.
Sign use:	Allowed for the duration of the seasonal sales use as specified in Section 2-4-9 (Seasonal agricultural sales use permit). The Director of Community Development may extend the duration of the banner permit limit to accommodate consecutive seasons.
Sign use:	Each seasonal sales use occurring at the same location requires a separate temporary banner permit.
Sign location:	Ground-mounted sign on private property; on fences; on wall of building. May not be located on roof of building, in a window, or attached to landscaping or light poles.
Maximum number:	One sign per product per street frontage.
Maximum sign size:	30 square feet.
Sign copy:	Business name and logo; seasonal product(s) currently available for sale. Banner text may not include prices, telephone numbers, web site address, or leasing information. Brand names and information which makes the banner appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. Any banner displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character size:	None.
Sign material:	Vinyl, nylon, canvas, or cloth.
Sign illumination:	None.

	SIGN TYPE #39 TEMPORARY (GROUND-MOUNTED) EVENT BANNERS
Permit requirements:	A temporary banner permit shall be requested on the appropriate form and will be approved for such general use by the Director of Community Development.
Sign removal:	The temporary banner permit applicant shall be responsible for the removal of the temporary banner upon expiration of the time limit.

	SIGN TYPE #43 TEMPORARY BANNERS FOR ANNUAL AGRICULTURAL SALES USES
Sign Type:	Temporary commercial sign intended to identify seasonal products, such as strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, etc., currently for sale to the public at permanent agricultural sites.
Sign use:	Allowed for the period the seasonal item identified is available for sale. Not intended to identify each product for an entire year.
Sign use:	Each request for a banner requires a separate permit. For example, a tempoary banner permit for banner(s) displayed periodically throughout the year, such as strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, etc., requires display periods be identified on the permit application.
Sign location:	Ground-mounted sign on private property; on fences; on wall of building. May not be located on roof of building, in a window, or attached to landscaping or light poles.
Maximum number:	One sign per street frontage.
Maximum sign size:	30 square feet.
Sign copy:	Identification of seasonal product(s) currently available for sale. Banner text may not include prices, telephone numbers, web site address, or leasing information. Brand names and information which makes the banner appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. Any banner displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character size:	None.
Sign material:	Vinyl, nylon, canvas, or cloth.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit requirements:	A temporary banner permit shall be requested on the appropriate form and will be approved for such general use by the Director of Community Development.
Sign removal:	The temporary banner permit applicant shall be responsible for the removal of the temporary banner upon expiration of the time limit.

	SIGN TYPE #44 TEMPORARY BANNERS FOR NON-PROFIT USES
Sign Type:	Temporary sign intended to identify an event which will benefit the community or general public.
Sign use:	Nonprofit organizations may display a temporary banner for up to one week. At the discretion of the Director of Community Development, the display period may be extended for up to 30 days. The display period of the banner shall be continuous for each application submitted. A maximum number of two temporary banner applications are permitted per calendar year, for a total of 60 days with approval from the Director of Community Development.
Sign location:	Ground-mounted sign on private property; on fences; on wall of building. May not be located on roof of building, in a window, or attached to landscaping or light poles.
Maximum number:	One per street frontage.
Maximum sign size:	30 square feet. At the discretion of the Director of Community Development, the size of the banner may be greater than 30 square feet.
Sign copy:	Title of event, telephone number, web site address, and dates, days or time of event. Corporate sponsor's name and logo may not exceed one-third of the area of the banner. Banner text may not include prices, leasing information, or specific items for sale. Brand names and information which makes the banner appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited. Any banner displayed in a language other than English shall be displayed in English as well.
Maximum character size:	None.
Sign material:	Vinyl, nylon, canvas, or cloth.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit requirements:	A temporary banner permit shall be requested on the appropriate form and will be approved for such general use by the Director of Community Development.
Sign removal:	The temporary banner permit applicant shall be responsible for the removal of the temporary banner upon expiration of the time limit.

(Ord. No. 23-13, § 3(Exh. A), 7-11-23)

SIGN TYPE #45 TEMPORARY STREETLIGHT BANNER SIGNS

Sign Type:	Temporary display of banners on streetlight poles in the public right-of-way.
Sign :	To promote City, Public Agency or City-supported community events, programs, services or City decorative banner program per Community and Library Services Streetlight Banner policy P-10-005.
Sign location:	As approved by the Director of Community and Library Services per Community Services Streetlight Banner policy P-10-005.
Sign copy:	As approved by the Director of Community and Library Services per Community Services Streetlight Banner policy P-10-005.
Max character size:	None.
Sign material:	Vinyl, nylon, canvas or cloth.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit requirement:	As approved by the Director of Community and Library Services per Community Services Streetlight Banner policy P-10-005.
Sign removal:	The applicant shall be responsible for the removal of temporary streetlight banners within 24 hours of expiration of permit or within five days of event identified on banners.

(Ord. No. 11-09, Exh. A, 3-23-11; Ord. No. 25-22, § 4, 9-9-25)

Exceptions & meaning →

Sec. 7-3-3. - General regulations—Signs exempt from sign permit requirements.¶

A. Exemption from sign permits. Certain sign types less than six feet in height are exempt from requirements for a sign permit prior to placing, erecting, moving, reconstruction, changing copy on, altering, or displaying the sign types identified in this section. Signs six feet in height or taller require a sign permit.

B. Exhibits. While the following sign types are exempt from permits requirement, these sign types must be erected in compliance with the general regulations set for the in the following exhibits. The graphic representations of letter styles, structures, and buildings are intended as illustrations only.

Sign Type #101	Directional signs in parking lots
Sign Type #102	Residential wall sign
Sign Type #103	Permanent window signs
Sign Type #104	Commercial real estate ground signs
Sign Type #105	Temporary residential real estate signs
Sign Type #106	Temporary off-site commercial signs
Sign Type #108	Temporary employment opportunity signs
Sign Type #109	Temporary contractor signs
Sign Type #110	Temporary commercial real estate wall/window signs
Sign Type #111	Temporary window sign in retail building not located in a residential village
Sign Type #112	Hot air balloon, balloon columns, and balloon arches not located in a residential village
Sign Type #113	Pushcart signs
Sign Type #114	Festival banners
Sign Type #115	Balloon columns and balloon arches
Sign Type #116	Orange County Great Park Signs not located in a residential village

(Ord. No. 05-16, § 2, 7-12-05; Ord. No. 10-03, § 3, 4-13-10; Ord. No. 16-06, § 3(Exh. A), 8-9-16, effective 1-1-17)

	SIGN TYPE #101 DIRECTIONAL SIGNS IN PARKING LOTS
Sign purpose	Permanent ground sign located in parking lots to provide direction to drivers.
Sign use:	Only for parking information, not advertising or business identification.
Sign location:	On private property.
Sign location:	Outside of sight distance triangle.
Sign location:	Behind perimeter hedge, berm, or screen wall.
Maximum number:	As needed to provide adequate direction on site.
Maximum sign structure size:	6 feet high above grade at midpoint of sign. 3 feet wide. Up to 18 square feet. (For a site of more than 5 acres, not located in a residential village: 6 feet high above grade at midpoint of sign. 6 feet wide. Up to 36 square feet.)
Maximum sign panel size:	6 feet high above grade at midpoint of sign. 2 feet wide. Up to 6 square feet. (For a site of more than 5 acres, not located in a residential village: 6 feet high above grade at midpoint of sign. 2.5 feet wide. Up to 10 square feet.)
Sign copy:	Parking information, such as, but not limited to, "deliveries," "exit," address numbers, and street names.
Maximum character size:	Up to 12 inches high with a 2-inch margin of blank space between sign copy and edge of sign panel.
Sign material:	Plastic is permitted for sign copy. Plastic is prohibited for sign background. Posts must be square metal posts (such as tubular aluminum), painted, without continuous pre-punched holes. Wood, steel and prepunched galvanized channels are not acceptable.
Sign illumination:	External, low-profile, floodlighting is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign copy is permitted. Internal-illumination of sign background is prohibited. Exposed neon is prohibited.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #102 RESIDENTIAL WALL SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Permanent wall sign at residences.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify a residence.
Sign location:	On building wall below eave line.
Maximum number:	One per residence.
Maximum sign size:	2 square feet.
Sign copy:	Only name of occupant and address.
Maximum character size:	8 inches
Sign material:	Metal or wood, not plastic.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #103 PERMANENT WINDOW SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Permanent window sign which informs pedestrians of store name and hours of operation.
Sign use:	Only allowed at store entrances.
Sign location:	On glass on, or adjacent to, entry door.
Maximum number:	One sign per public entrance per lease space in retail/office building.
Maximum sign size:	2 feet high.
Maximum sign size:	2 feet wide.
Maximum sign size:	4 square feet.
Sign copy:	Store name, hours of operation, telephone numbers, web site address, and emergency information. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	6 inches.
Sign material:	Vinyl.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #104 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE GROUND SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Ground sign which identifies nonresidential property or space available for lease or for sale, after a future facility sign has been removed.
Sign use:	Only allowed at a site during period that property or space is available for lease or for sale. Not allowed if a future facility sign (Sign Type #33) is already installed on the site.
Sign location:	On site, not in public right-of-way.
Sign location:	Outside of sight distance triangles.
Sign location:	Not obstructing regulatory signs or traffic signal controllers.
Sign location:	Not within 100 feet of another ground sign between roadways or project entries.
Maximum number:	One sign per site available for lease or sale per street frontage, but not at same corner.
Maximum sign size:	Signs located in residential villages: 5 feet high. 6 feet wide. 30 square feet for sign structure. 18 square feet for sign panel.
Maximum sign size:	Signs not located in residential villages: 12 feet high. 8 feet wide. 96 square feet.
Sign copy:	"For sale," "for lease," or "available" and name of broker, property manager, telephone number, and web site address. Not price information. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	12 inches high.
Sign material:	Wood or metal. Structural calculations required for any sign greater than 6 feet high.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No, except if sign is greater than 6 feet high.

	SIGN TYPE #105 TEMPORARY RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Temporary wall sign, window sign, or ground sign which identifies a non-apartment residential property available for lease or for sale.
Sign use:	Only allowed at site during period that property or space is available for lease or for sale.
Sign location:	On site.
Sign location:	Outside of sign distance triangles.
Sign location:	Not obstructing regulatory signs.
Maximum number:	One sign per residence.
Maximum sign size:	4 feet high.
Maximum sign size:	6 square feet.
Sign copy:	Pertaining only to the sale, rent, or lease of the building or property.
Maximum character size:	12 inches
Sign material:	Wood or metal.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #106 TEMPORARY OFF-SITE COMMERCIAL SIGNS

	SIGN TYPE #101 DIRECTIONAL SIGNS IN PARKING LOTS
Sign purpose:	Temporary commercial ground sign which advertises a product or service not available on the premises upon which said sign is located. Sign must be associated with a legitimate commercial enterprise in the City of Irvine for which permanent signs are not permitted. Temporary off-site open house signs shall be considered part of this sign type.
Sign use:	Only allowed between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Sign location:	In public right-of-way; or on private property with owner's consent.
Sign location:	Within intersection landscape area only and located outside of sign distance triangles.
Sign location:	Not obstructing regulatory signs or traffic signal controllers.
Maximum number:	One sign per intersection per change in direction between the location of the commercial activity to which the sign relates and the nearest major intersection.
Maximum sign size:	3 feet high.
Maximum sign size:	3 square feet.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

(Ord. No. 16-06, § 3(Exh. A), 8-9-16, effective 1-1-17)

	SIGN TYPE #107 TEMPORARY NON-COMMERCIAL SIGNS
Sign location:	In public right-of-way; or on private property with owner's consent. Not on City traffic signs, signals, or devices including directional signs, advisory signs, and regulation signs.
Sign location:	Not attached to any object located in the public right-of-way.
Sign location:	Outside of sight distance triangles and not obstructing regulatory signs, traffic signal controllers, or driver's view.
Sign location:	Maximum of one substantially similar sign per intersection.
Sign location:	Signs located in the public right-of-way must be spaced a minimum of 12 inches from another sign.
Maximum sign size:	3 square feet, if located within 150 feet of an intersection. Dimensions of the sign shall be 18 inches by 24 inches.
Maximum sign size:	12 square feet, if not located within 150 feet of an intersection. Dimensions of the sign shall not exceed 3 feet by 4 feet.
Maximum sign height:	Top of sign may be 3 feet above the ground if located in public right-of-way within 150 feet of an intersection.
Maximum sign height:	Top of sign may be 6 feet above the ground, but not located within the public right-of-way and not within 150 feet of an intersection.
Maximum sign height:	Top of sign may be 20 feet above the ground for a wall-mounted sign, if not located in public right-of-way.
Sign illumination:	None.
Sign installation and removal:	Signs unrelated to a specific event may remain in place for 39 days and must immediately thereafter be removed. If a sign is not removed immediately after the end of the 39 day period, then the City may recover costs of sign removal from the person/organization to which the sign relates. Signs related to a specific event (e.g., election) may be installed no earlier than 39 days prior to the event to which the sign relates and must be removed no later than 10 days after the event to which the sign relates. If a sign is not removed within the 10-day period, then the City may recover costs of sign removal from the person/organization to which the sign relates. In addition, if a sign is installed earlier than 39 days prior to the event to which the sign relates, then the City may recover costs of sign removal from the person/organization to which the sign relates. In the case of an eletion, the event is election day rather than the start of the early voting time period. In the case of a district election, signs are only allowed within the boundaries of the district that is the subject of the election, and not City-wide. The above provisions are subject to the following exceptions: (1) no more than four signs on City-owned public property within 250 yards of any freeway on-ramp or off-ramp shall be permitted, and (2) no more than four signs may be placed on public property at or within 250 yards of a vote center on days when the vote center is open.
Permit required?	No.

(Ord. No. 16-06, § 3(Exh. A), 8-9-16, effective 1-1-17; Ord. No. 24-23, § 2(Exh. A), 1-14-25)

	SIGN TYPE #108 TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Temporary sign which identifies employment opportunities at site.
Sign use:	Only allowed at site during period that employment opportunity exists.
Sign location:	On exterior wall of building or in window.
Sign location:	Adjacent to entry door.
Sign location:	No higher than 6 feet above the finish floor elevation.
Maximum number:	One sign per organization with employment opportunity.
Maximum sign size:	2 feet high. 2 feet wide. 4 square feet.
Sign copy:	Information related to employment. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	6 inches.
Sign material:	Foam core board, wood panel, or metal panel. Banners are not allowed.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #109 TEMPORARY CONTRACTOR SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Temporary sign which identifies the contractor, excluding residential remodels.
Sign use:	Only allowed at site during construction.
Sign location:	On contractor's trailer, but not above roof of trailer; or at gate in construction fence, but not above top of fence or gate. Not at street intersection without gates.
Maximum number:	One sign visible to street per street frontage.
Maximum sign size:	32 square feet.
Sign copy:	Name of contractor and related information. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Sign material:	Wood or metal.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #110 TEMPORARY COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE WALL/WINDOW SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Temporary wall or window sign which identifies nonresidential property or space available for lease or for sale.
Sign use:	Only allowed at site during period that property or space is available for lease or for sale.
Sign location:	On exterior wall of building or in window, but no higher than 6 feet above the finish floor elevation.
Maximum number:	One sign per site or space available for lease or sale per street frontage.
Maximum sign size:	2 feet high. 2 feet wide. 4 square feet.
Sign copy:	"For sale," "for lease," or "available" and name of broker, property manager, telephone number, and web site address. No price information. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	6 inches.
Sign material:	Foam core board, wood panel, or metal panel.
Sign material:	Banners are not allowed.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #111 TEMPORARY WINDOW SIGN IN A RETAIL BUILDING NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Temporary window sign at a retail building not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed to identify special offers and if store is open.
Sign location:	Behind glass.
Sign location:	Minimum 3 feet above finish floor elevation.
Sign location:	Maximum 7 feet above finish floor elevation.
Maximum numbers:	One sign per lease frontage.
Maximum sign size:	30 square feet per lease frontage.
Sign copy:	"Open," products, and prices. Not business identification. Not information already displayed in Sign Type #103 (permanent window sign). Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character height:	36 inches.
Sign material:	Professionally-prepared graphics.
Sign illumination:	Exposed neon is allowed if not facing a residential project in a residential village.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #112 HOT AIR BALLOON, BALLOON COLUMNS, AND BALLOON ARCHES NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Temporary advertising device not located in a residential village.
Sign use:	Only allowed for auto sales at sites zoned vehicle-related commercial in Planning Area 35.
Sign location:	Hot air balloons: Attached to ground, not attached to building or light poles, and not flying in the air.
Sign location:	Balloon arches: Attached to ground, not attached to building or light poles.
Sign location:	Balloon columns: Attached to ground, not attached to building or light poles.
Sign location:	Outside of sight distance triangles.
Sign location:	Not obstructing regulatory signs or traffic signal controllers.
Maximum number:	Hot air balloons: One per site with a special event permit.
Maximum number:	Balloon arches: Three per site.
Maximum number:	Balloon columns: Three per site.
Sign copy:	None.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #113 PUSHCART SIGNS
Sign purpose:	Permanent all sign which identifies operator of a pushcart.
Sign use:	To identify operator of a pushcart.
Sign location:	On push care or kiosk covering pushcart(s). Not exceeding eave of kiosk.
Maximum number:	If a single pushcart: Two signs per pushcart.
Maximum number:	If two or more pushcarts together with single operator: Four signs per set of pushcarts.
Maximum sign size:	2 square feet.
Sign copy:	Business name. Brand names and information which makes the sign appear to be advertisement, such as ® and ™, are prohibited.
Maximum character size:	12 inches.
Sign material:	Vinyl letters, painted letters, wood panel, or metal panel. Banners are not allowed.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required?	No.

	SIGN TYPE #114 FESTIVAL BANNERS
Sign purpose:	Permanent use of banner on parking lot light poles at retail centers.

	SIGN TYPE #108 TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY SIGNS
Sign use:	To promote festivity in retail centers. Actual banner must change periodically, either at seasons or holidays.
Sign location:	On parking lot light poles on private property. Not within 100 feet of face of curb on public street on perimeter of site.
Maximum number:	Two banners per pole.
Maximum banner size:	20 square feet per banner.
Sign copy:	None.
Sign material:	Fabric.
Sign illumination:	No additional illumination is allowed.
Pole design:	Pole shall be designed to support banners.
Permit required?	No.

SIGN TYPE #115 BALLOON COLUMNS AND BALLOON ARCHES

Sign purpose:	Temporary device to attract attention to special event.
Sign use:	Nonresidential village: In conjunction with a special event permit; requires property owner or manager approval.
Sign use:	Residential village: In conjunction with a special event permit; requires property owner or manager approval, and approval of appropriate home owner's association.
Sign location:	Balloon arches: Attached to ground, not attached to building or light poles.
Sign location:	Balloon columns: Attached to ground, not attached to building or light poles.
Sign location:	Outside of sight distance triangles. Not obstructing regulatory signs or traffic signal controllers.
Maximum number:	Balloon arches: Three per site.
Maximum number:	Balloon columns: Three per site.
Sign copy:	None.
Sign illumination:	None.
Permit required:	Special event permit required.

	SIGN TYPE #116 ORANGE COUNTY GREAT PARK SIGNS NOT LOCATED IN A RESIDENTIAL VILLAGE
Sign purpose:	Permanent signs at the Orange County Great Park, not located in a residential village*.
Sign use:	To provide identification, information and direction for the Orange County Great Park.
Maximum number:	To be determined through sign program.
Maximum sign size:	To be determined through sign program.
Maximum sign height:	To be determined through sign program.
Sign copy:	To be determined through sign program.
Maximum character height:	To be determined through sign program.
sign material:	To be determined through sign program.
Sign illumination:	To be determined through sign program.
Permit required?	Yes.

*Signs listed under Section 7-2-1.B are subject to the requirements set forth in that section.

Exceptions & meaning →