Chapter 10.34 — SIGNS

This Chapter establishes sign regulations intended to promote and support economic success in the community while protecting and enhancing aesthetic qualities in the City's business districts and residential neighborhoods; enhancing property values; promoting the use of signs that are complementary in scale, proportion, and style with the developments they support; minimizing visual clutter; and ensuring that signs are designed and located in a manner that minimizes potential hazards to the safety and movement of vehicles and pedestrians. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

This Chapter shall apply to the construction, erection, installation, and maintenance of all outdoor signs and window signs in all areas of the City. With regard to properties within the Downtown Business District Specific Plan area or any other area that is governed by a specific plan, the provisions of this Chapter shall apply only to the extent that a specific plan does not address a particular signage issue. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

Every permanent sign shall have an identifying number, name of the contractor or installer, the month and year of installation, and if illuminated, the voltage number plainly placed on the exterior surface of the sign body in a location where such information will be readily visible after installation. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

It is the City’s policy and intent to regulate both commercial and noncommercial signs in a viewpoint-neutral and content-neutral manner. The message of the sign shall not be reviewed except to the minimum extent necessary to identify the type of sign. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

For the purposes of this Chapter, unless otherwise apparent from the context, the following sign definitions shall apply:

Advertising sign means a sign that promotes events or activities or uses, products, or services obtainable on the premises through the use of words, letters, symbols, or combination thereof.

Attachment means a structural device needed for keeping a sign fixed to the ground, wall, or other allowed location. Awning means a structure attached to, and projecting from, a building wall for aesthetic and shade purposes.Awnings typically consist of a frame covered with fabric, vinyl, or metal and are generally placed over windows and doors. Awnings are generally not constructed as an integral part of the structure but rather are attached after the structure is complete.

Balloon display means an arrangement of one or more inflated balloons, tethered at a fixed location and primarily intended to draw attention to that location.

Banner means a sheet made of cloth, vinyl, or similar lightweight, flexible material (except paper) attached to or suspended from any structure, building, staff, pole, line, framing, or other projection generally displayed for

advertising purposes. This definition does not include a flag.

Billboard means a permanent structure used for the display of off-site commercial messages which are not related to the provision of services or the sale of products available on the subject site, as well as used for the display of noncommercial messages, including public service announcements.

Bulletin board means a repository board for posting notices, advertisements, or messages of a private or public purpose.

Center means commercial, industrial, professional, or business structures and associated facilities that have been designed and developed together as an integrated unit, sharing common parking facilities. A “center” may consist of several different uses within a single structure or several different structures.

Commercial sign means any sign that directly or indirectly names, advertises, or calls attention to a business, product, service, or other commercial or similar business activity.

Copy means the specific text, words, letters, or numbers used for advertising a product, service or event.

Cutout means every type of display in the form of letters, figures, characters, representations, or others that extend beyond the primary billboard sign face or irregular forms attached to or superimposed upon a billboard.

Electronic display billboard- means a billboard electronic or digital technology- including but not limited to LED (light emitting diodes) or CED (charge emitting diodes) or plasma, or their functional equivalent-which is capable of displaying images that change electronically and intermittently.

Flag means a piece of cloth or bunting with definitive colors, patterns, or symbolic devices, used as a symbol for a nation, governmental entity, religious entity, or other organization and not containing a commercial message.

Height of a sign means the vertical distance measured from the grade level closest to the bottom of the sign or sign support to the highest point of the sign structure, frame, or uppermost portion of any copy, whichever is higher. See Figure 3-10.

Figure 3-10

Height of a Sign

Letter height means the vertical distance from the lowest point to the highest point of any letter or other piece of copy used in a sign.

Logo means a symbol, character or emblem representing an identifiable trademark, corporate entity, or marketable product.

Master sign program means sign criteria intended to provide uniformity and consistency among the signs in a commercial or industrial development with multiple tenants by regulating the type, number, location, size, style, or color of signs permitted in the development.

Multiple-tenant development means a commercial or industrial development designed and/or constructed and/or operated as a single project and containing not less than two separate uses in separate structures or in the same structure.

Mural means an artistic painting on a wall or other vertical surface, generally of large size and intended to be viewed from a distance. A mural does not contain a commercial message. Noncommercial sign means any sign which is not determined to be a commercial sign.

Pennant means a banner or similar device typically triangular in shape that is used to attract attention to a product or location for advertising purposes.

Supporting structure means any device such as a pole, column, wall, or similar contrivance used to secure a sign in a vertical position for viewing.

Sign means any device intended for visual communication and that contains any announcement, declaration, demonstration, insignia, banner, pennant, illustration, or graphic used to advertise or promote the interest of any

person, business, group, or enterprise.

Sign, A-frame means a freestanding portable sign that is mounted on a frame that widens on the bottom, forming a shape similar to the letter “A” when viewed from the side. See Figure 3-11 - Types of Signs.

Sign area means the cumulative area enclosed by parallel vertical and parallel horizontal lines encompassing each letter, logo, graphic, or other element of a two-dimensional sign message, as determined by the Director. For signs on a panel, board, or cabinet that is removable from the structure to which such panel, board, or cabinet is mounted (such as cabinet signs or projecting signs), the sign area shall equal the area of the panel, board, or cabinet face. See Figure 3-12 - Measurement of Sign Area.

Sign, awning or canopy means a sign attached to, painted on, or applied to an awning or canopy that is attached to a structure. See Figure 3-11 Types of Signs.

Sign, business tenant means a changeable letter board or similar noncommercial sign erected for the purpose of identifying for visitors the current tenants of a building and their office locations within a multitenant office building. Sign, cabinet means a sign generally characterized by a singular metal cabinet with a plexiglass or plastic sign face that contains the entire sign message. Lighting elements are usually installed in the interior of the cabinet to provide backlighting for the sign. See Figure 3-11 - Types of Signs.

Sign, changeable copy means a sign where letters, graphics, logo or messages are affixed in such a manner that they may be easily changed without affecting the sign structure. This definition does not include electronic display billboards.

Sign, directory means a sign that lists the tenants of a particular development by name and address and/or unit number. Directory signs usually are oriented toward and intended for viewing by off-street vehicle traffic and/or pedestrians.

Sign, electronic changeable face or digital changeable face means a sign that uses any manner of lights, including light-emitting diodes (LEDs), fiber optics, lights bulbs, or other illumination devices, to create a commercial message - with text and/or images - within the sign display area. Electronic changeable face signs include computer programmable, microprocessor controlled electronic, or digital displays.

Sign, electronic readerboard means a sign that uses any manner of lights, including light-emitting diodes (LEDs), fiber optics, lights bulbs, or other illumination devices, to create a non-commercial text-only message within the sign display area.

Sign face means the surface upon which a sign message may be applied. The sign face may be greater than the sign area if the all of the available sign face is not utilized for the copy.

Sign, freestanding means a sign that is supported by a structure other than a building and permanently fixed in or upon the ground, such as pylon signs and monument signs. See Figure 3-11 - Types of Signs.

Sign, hand-held means any temporary commercial message sign which is held by a person and which may or may not advertise a business located on the premises where the person is holding that sign.

Sign, lighted means a sign that is illuminated by an internal, external, or indirect light source.

Sign, marquee means a sign placed on a building marquee, generally found at theaters, and provides for changeable copy.

Sign, menu board means a sign, either detached or attached to a structure for a business providing drive-through service, displaying the type and price of the commodities sold in connection with the drive-through service and located adjacent to and oriented toward the drive-through lane.

Sign, monument means a freestanding sign that is supported by an enclosed structure that has at least the same length and width as the sign face it supports. See Figure 3-11 - Types of Signs.

Sign, name means a sign containing the name and/or address of the occupant of the premises. Sign, neon means a sign containing electric gas tube lighting such as argon, neon, krypton, helium, or xenon.

Sign, non-commercial means a sign that does not advertise, identify or otherwise direct attention to a product or business but instead conveys an opinion, idea, concept or similar message.

Sign, nonconforming means any sign that does not conform to all applicable requirement and limitations of this Chapter.

Sign, off-premises. See “Billboard.”

Sign, on-premises means a sign that advertises or identifies businesses, services, goods, persons, or events that are on the same lot, parcel, property, or center on which the sign is located.

Sign, painted means any sign that has a message, illustration, graphic, or copy that is painted directly onto a sign face, wall, or other surface.

Sign, permanent means a sign intended to be erected and maintained for a period of time in excess of 90 days. Sign plan means elevations, site plan, structural, and/or electrical drawings illustrating the design, size, materials, colors, and location of a proposed sign(s) and the method of attachment to the building, structure, or ground.

Sign, pole means a permanent freestanding sign which is supported entirely by a single pole, post or upright that is narrower than the message board that it supports. See Figure 3-11 - Types of Signs.

Sign, political means a noncommercial sign promoting a candidate for political office or a measure scheduled for election.

Sign, portable means a freestanding sign that is not permanently affixed, anchored, or secured to either the ground or an immovable structure.

Sign, projecting means a sign that projects from and is supported by a wall or structure with the display surface of the sign typically at or near a 90 degree angle to the structure facade.

Sign, public utility means a sign providing information, directions, or warnings regarding public utilities facilities such as gas, water, sewer lines or electricity.

Sign, pylon means a permanent freestanding sign which is supported entirely by two or more pole(s), post(s), or upright(s) that are narrower than the message board that it supports. See Figure 3-10 - Types of Signs. Sign, service station price means a sign at a gasoline service station that indicates the fuel grade designation, price per gallon of gasoline or other motor vehicle fuel offered for sale, and the method of sale and such other information as may be required by State law.

Sign, street-oriented freestanding means a freestanding sign that is designed and constructed with the intention of attracting the attention of motorists on adjacent streets and highways to the occupant, tenant, or the products or services offered on the property on which the sign is located.

Sign, temporary means a sign intended to be displayed for a period of time not to exceed 90 days. Sign, tenant identification wall means a sign attached to the wall of a building or structure in a plane parallel or approximately parallel to the plane of such wall or structure that identifies the business located within the building or, in the case of a residential use of property, the current residents of building or group of buildings.

be displayed for a period of time not to exceed 90 days. Sign, tenant identification wall means a sign attached to the wall of a building or structure in a plane parallel or approximately parallel to the plane of such wall or structure that identifies the business located within the building or, in the case of a residential use of property, the current residents of building or group of buildings.

Sign, vehicle means a sign painted or placed on a vehicle for the purpose of advertising a business, product or service. See Figure 3-11 - Types of Signs.

Sign, wall means a sign fastened parallel to a wall and which the letters, cabinet, or other part of the sign structure does not project more than 18 inches from the building or structure. See Figure 3-11 - Types of Signs.

Sign, window means any sign painted, attached, glued or otherwise affixed to the inside or outside of a window or any glazed surface of any structure or are located in such a manner as to be clearly visible outside of a structure. See Figure 3-11 - Types of Signs.

Streamer means a line of ribbons or small flags generally suspended over a property to attract attention. Structure, sign means a structure of any kind erected or maintained to support any sign, poster, bill, printing, painting, or other advertising device. For purposes of this definition, a freestanding wall may be considered a sign

structure if it is used to support a sign.

Twirler means any streamer, ribbon, propeller, or similar device meant to attract attention to a product or service.

Tivoli lights means a string of small lights consisting of clear or non-colored bulbs that are not more than one inch in length used for decoration purposes.

Figure 3-11

Types of Signs

Figure 3-12

Measurement of Sign Area

(Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. General. Except as otherwise provided in this Chapter, no sign shall be altered, replaced, erected, constructed, or attached on buildings, structures, or property until a sign plan application, on a form designated by the City, has been approved by either the Director or Commission, as set forth in this Section. The Director may request additional information to ensure compliance with this Chapter and other provisions of the La Puente Municipal Code.

B. Signs Requiring Commission Approval. The following signs shall be subject to review and approval by the Commission.

1. Master sign program;

2. Freestanding signs over six feet in height;

3. Murals;

4. Painted wall signs;

5. Electronic Display Billboards;

• C. Signs Requiring Director Approval. The following signs are subject to review and approval by the Director.

1. Signs to be placed on structures for which a master sign program is not required;

2. Signs consistent with an approved master sign program;

3. Temporary signs;

4. Signs erected on a property for the purpose of providing information regarding direction to and/or

identification of businesses and/or residences on that site;

5. Any other nonexempt sign not subject to Commission review and approval;

• D. Time for Review.

1. For those signs subject to review by the Director, the Director shall review the sign plan application within 15 calendar days after the application has been deemed complete and shall make a determination to approve, conditionally approve, or deny the application unless the applicant has requested or received authorization for an extension of time.

2. For those signs subject to review by the Commission, the Commission shall review the sign plan application or master sign program within 60 days after the application has been deemed complete and shall make a determination to approve, conditionally approve, or deny the application unless the applicant has requested or received authorization for an extension of time.

3. For any sign plan application or master sign program submitted in conjunction with another discretionary application pursuant to this Zoning Code, the time period for action for the sign application shall be the same as that associated with the other application.

• E. Required Findings for Approval.

1. The Director or Commission, as applicable, shall approve a sign application or master sign program if the following findings can be made:

a. The sign plan or sign program meets the requirements and sign design standards set forth in this Chapter; and b. The sign plan or sign program is compatible with development on the subject property and developments in the immediate vicinity of the subject property, and does not detract from the character or quality of surrounding properties.

2. In reaching a decision, neither the Director nor the Commission shall be bound by the formal rules of evidence. F. Appeals.

3. Any decision by the Director or the Commission under this Chapter may be appealed pursuant to the applicable provisions of Chapter 10.114 (Appeals).

4. Following exhaustion of all available appellate procedures within the City, any appellant may seek judicial review of the City’s final decision pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.5. This provision does not limit an applicant’s or appellant’s ability to seek judicial review by other means. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Exempt Signs. The following signs shall not require approval of a sign application, provided that any such sign identified in this Section is erected and maintained in compliance with the provisions of this Chapter. The City has determined that such exemptions are appropriate, as the signs described in this Section are incidental to the identification of an allowed business or similar use of a property and are generally erected for purposes of providing information to the public that is temporary or seasonal in nature, assisting with the safe movement of persons and vehicles, and providing information that promotes general public health, safety, and welfare. Such signs or actions related to signs shall not be counted toward the allowable sign area for signs requiring permits or other discretionary approvals by the City.

1. Copy changes on an approved changeable copy sign.

2. Signs advertising a property for sale, lease, or rental, subject to the provisions set forth in Section 10.34.080 (Regulations for Exempt Signs), below.

3. Signs erected by a property undergoing construction or remodeling of an approved project, subject to the provisions set forth in Section 10.34.070 (Regulations for Exempt Signs), below.

4. Signs erected by a property management company on property it manages, provided that no such sign is greater than 12 square feet in area and no more than one such sign is placed on any one property.

5. Signs provided on a property for the purpose of directing safe vehicle and pedestrian movement on such property.

6. Signs on property where there is a yard sale taking place in compliance with Section 5.50.070(f) of the Municipal Code, and provided such signs comply with the provisions of Chapter 5.50.

7. Flags, provided that the flag is not greater than 24 square feet in area, the flagpole does not exceed the maximum building height permitted of the zone in which the flag is erected, and no more than two flags are flown.

8. Plaques or markers, as authorized and approved as to materials and size by the Council and installed by the City or an authorized entity, identifying a historic place or event.

9. Public utility signs identifying underground or aboveground facilities, cables, conduits, or potentially hazardous conditions, provided that such signs do not exceed six square feet in area.

10. Any sign required by an applicable Federal, State, or local law regulation or ordinance.

11. Seasonal and temporary holiday decorations, provided they are removed within 10 days following the end of the holiday.

12. Tivoli lights, provided they do not advertise goods or services for sale, lease, or rent.

13. Lights used as architectural accents on a structure and clearly not depicting a message or advertising a product or service.

14. Non-illuminated noncommercial message signs not exceeding 24 square feet in area and six feet in overall height, and placed a minimum distance of five feet from the property line.

15. Street address (number) signs, building identification signs, business tenant signs, and nameplates on residences and business locations, provided such signs do not exceed three square foot in area, are limited to one sign per property, and are pedestrian oriented.

16. Signs erected by a public agency that provide for the safe and efficient control of traffic and parking, or for the notification of essential government services.

17. Safety and emergency signs erected by a public agency.

18. Non-Commercial Signs.

B. Exempt Sign Maintenance Activities. The ordinary maintenance and minor repairs of signs that do not involve replacement, alteration, reconstruction, relocation, or expansion shall be exempt from the permitting requirements of this Chapter. However, building permits and or electrical permits may be required for certain maintenance and/or minor repairs. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Signs on Property for Sale, Lease, or Rental. Signs on property for sale, lease, or rental are allowed in all zones subject to the following requirements:

1. Location. Except as otherwise provided in this Section, signs on property for sale, lease, or rental may only be posted on the property which is for sale, lease, or rental. The sign may be mounted on the building wall.

2. Number. One unlighted, wall-mounted or freestanding sign on property for sale, lease, or rental is permitted for each street frontage.

3. Allowable Sign Area.

a. In a single-family residential zone, signs on property for sale, lease, or rental shall not exceed six square feet per sign face. In a multiple-family residential zone, signs on property for sale, lease, or rental shall not exceed 12 square feet per sign face.

b. In commercial or industrial zones, signs on property for sale, lease, or rental shall not exceed a total of 24 square feet on any street frontage or 48 square feet in total sign area on the site.

4. Height.

a. Wall-mounted signs on property for sale, lease, or rental shall not extend above the highest point of a parapet wall or the lowest point of a sloping roof.

b. Freestanding signs on property for sale, lease, or rental shall not exceed five feet in height from finished grade in residential zones, and not more than eight feet in height from finished grade in commercial or industrial zones.

5. Time Limits. All signs on property for sale, lease, or rental shall be removed from the premises within seven days after the property or tenant space has been rented, leased, or sold.

B. Signs on Property Undergoing Construction or Remodeling. Signs on property undergoing construction or remodeling are allowed in all zones subject to the following:

1. Location. The sign may only be posted on the property that the sign is intended to advertise except as otherwise provided in this section. The sign shall be not less than ten feet from any property line, except if the subject property has a setback area that is less than ten feet from the property line, the sign may be placed one-half the distance between the existing building and the property line or the sign may be mounted on the building wall.

2. Number. One unlighted, wall-mounted or freestanding such sign is permitted for each street frontage.

3. Allowable Sign Area.

• a. In any residential zone, a sign on a property undergoing construction or remodeling shall not exceed a total

of 12 square feet on any street frontage or 24 square feet in total sign area on the site in any residential zone.

b. In any commercial or industrial zone, a sign on a property undergoing construction or remodeling shall not exceed a total of 48 square feet on any street frontage or 96 square feet in total sign area on the site in any commercial or industrial zone.

4. Height.

• a. Wall-mounted signs on a property undergoing construction or remodeling shall not extend above the highest point of a parapet wall or the lowest point of a sloping roof.

b. Freestanding signs on a property undergoing construction or remodeling shall not exceed eight feet in height from finished grade in residential zones, and not more than 10 feet in height from finished grade in commercial or industrial zones.

5. Time Limit. Any sign on a property undergoing construction or remodeling shall be removed within seven days after the City has issued a certificate of occupancy.

• C. Signs Erected by Property Management on a Property It Manages. Signs erected by property management on a property it manages are allowed in all zones subject to the following:

1. Location. Such sign shall only be posted on a building wall facing a public street.

2. Number. One such allowed sign is permitted for each property.

3. Allowable Sign Area.

• a. In residential zones, such sign shall not exceed a total of four square feet.

• b. In commercial or industrial zones, such sign shall not exceed a total of six square feet.

4. Height. Such sign shall not extend above the highest point of a parapet wall or the lowest point of a sloping roof.

5. Time Limit. Such signs shall be removed within seven days after the person/firm indicated on such sign is no longer responsible for the management of the property and/or building.

D. Signs Erected for Providing Safe Vehicle and Pedestrian Movement. Signs erected on a property for the purposes of providing safe vehicle and pedestrian movement shall be subject to the approval of the Director in a number and location deemed necessary for the site. However, no sign permit shall be required. Such signs may be attached to building walls or freestanding, but in no event shall such signs exceed six square feet in sign area. Freestanding signs providing for safe vehicle and pedestrian movement shall not exceed four feet in height.

• E. Non-Commercial Signs.

1. Non-commercial shall be permitted in all zones in the City.

2. Non-commercial signs shall not be posted in or on any of the following:

• a. The public right-of-way;

• b. Utility poles;

• c. Street lights;

• d. Within five feet of the curb face or edge of street for properties that do not abut a sidewalk;

• e. Any other location prohibited under any federal, state, or local law, rule or regulation.

3. Non-commercial signs shall be removed within 10 calendar days after the date of the event for which the sign was erected. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

• A. General. Signs that are not specifically permitted by this Chapter are prohibited.

B. Electronic Signs. No sign shall have blinking or flashing lights, nor lighting that changes periodically or gives the appearance or impression of movement, nor a composition partially or wholly comprised of electronic or other

lights, nor contain moving parts or give the impression of movement, except the following:

1. Permitted electronic readerboards displaying noncommercial messages;

2. Barber pole signs;

3. Electronic Display Billboard permitted pursuant to Section 10.34.170 (Electronic Display Billboards).

On-premises electronic signs with changeable commercial messages are specifically prohibited.

C. Signs with Exposed Lighting. Signs with exposed bulbs or tubing are prohibited, except neon or similar gas signs.

D. Vehicle-mounted Signs. Vehicle-mounted signs which have the sole purpose of on-site or off-site advertising which are not part of the operations of the business being advertised (e.g. company car, work truck, and delivery vehicles) are prohibited, except for the following:

1. Automobile, truck, or equipment dealerships or rental agencies, and where such sign only displays information associated with such dealership or agency; and

2. Where the sign is permanently or magnetically attached or painted on the vehicle and not attached or painted in a manner to render the vehicle or a door, window, hood, trunk, or tailgate of that vehicle immovable, unsafe, unusable, or in violation of the California Vehicle Code.

E. Cabinet Signs. Upon the effective date of the ordinance establishing this section, no new cabinet signs shall be permitted.

• F. Other Prohibited Signs.

1. Signs dispensing or emitting bubbles, smoke, steam, or free-floating particles of matter.

2. Noise-emitting devices, flares, twirlers, propellers and similar devices that attract attention by loud noises, bright lights, or movement.

3. Lasers, search lights, spotlights or other light sources that project light into the sky, onto adjacent properties or rights-of-way are prohibited. Light sources that project light into the sky may be permitted in conjunction with an approved temporary use permit.

4. Inflatable devices and signs, with or without a commercial message, except for seasonal or holiday decorations on residentially zoned properties.

5. Statues used for advertising.

6. “A-frame” signs and portable signs.

7. Any permanent sign located on any roof.

8. Paper signs, posters, or other signs of similar construction located on the exterior of any structure.

9. Light bulb string lights used as advertising, except Tivoli or holiday lights. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Location. All signs and/or other advertising shall only be located on the same lot, parcel of land, property, or premises with the structure or use for which such signs or other advertising are intended to serve, except as permitted pursuant to Section 10.34.070.A (Exempt Signs) and permitted Electronic Display Billboards pursuant to Section 10.34.170 (Electronic Display Billboards).

B. Restricted from Public Rights-of-Way. All signs and/or other advertising shall not project or be located within any portion of a public right-of-way, except as otherwise specifically provided for in this Chapter.

• C. Landscape Area Required. Freestanding signs shall be located within a landscaped planting area.

D. Electrical Equipment. Any electrical service provided for signs and/or other advertising shall be installed and located underground and shall be completely concealed from exterior exposure.

E. Uniform Style for Identification Signs. Building identification signs within an integrated development shall be designed to be uniform in location, design, and construction. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

The following sign regulations apply to the O zone.

A. Street-oriented freestanding signs designed and intended to be visible and read by motorists on a major or secondary highway, as defined by the Circulation and Infrastructure Element of the La Puente General Plan, are allowed on properties with a minimum frontage of 500 feet on such highway.

B. The freestanding sign shall be no greater than 250 square feet in area and 25 feet in height.

C. The freestanding sign shall be located at a distance from the public right-of-way that is not less than five feet. In addition, the sign shall not be less than five feet from any adjacent property, except if such adjacent property is in a residential zone, the minimum setback shall be 15 feet. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Tenant Identification Signs - R-2, R-3, and R-4 Zones Only. One tenant identification wall sign is allowed in the R-2, R-3, and R-4 zones on each building within a complex, subject to the limitations set forth in Table 3-10. Any such sign shall count toward the total of the maximum permitted sign area.

TABLE 3-10

B. Development Identification Sign - All Residential Zones. For any residentially zoned property in any zone having 200 linear feet or more of property frontage on a street, one street-oriented monument sign on that street frontage is allowed to identify the development, subject to the following requirements. Any such sign shall count toward the total of the maximum permitted sign area.

1. The sign shall not exceed a height of five feet.

2. The sign face shall not exceed a total of 25 square feet in area.

3. In no case shall the sign be located less than five feet from any driveway entrance/exit or public right-of-way or 20 feet from any adjacent property.

4. The street address numbers of the property(ies) represented by the sign shall be included on all faces of the monument structure in four-inch high numerals. The area required for the numerals shall not be counted towards the maximum permitted sign area.

5. Such sign shall incorporate architectural elements, materials, and colors of the building(s) it represents. Exposed support posts, angle irons, conduits, cables, or other similar structural and electrical elements shall not be allowed. If the architectural features, color, or exterior materials of the building(s) are changed, the sign structure shall be similarly changed.

6. The location of such sign shall be subject to the review and approval of the Director.

C. Signs for Providing Safe Vehicle and Pedestrian Movement. For developments on sites five acres or larger in size, signs provided for the safe movement of vehicles and pedestrians are allowed subject to the approval of the Director with regard to the number, size, and location of such signs deemed necessary for the site. In no event shall any single such sign exceed 25 square feet in sign area and four feet in height.

D. Bulletin Boards in All Residential Zones - Places of Religious Assembly, Charitable and Education Use, and Multi-family Residential Developments. On any property in a residential zone on which a place of religious assembly, charitable or educational use, or multi-family residential building has been established, a maximum of one freestanding or wall-mounted bulletin board sign may be erected and maintained, subject to the following requirements:

1. The bulletin board shall not be located on any area on the property visible from a public right-of-way.

2. The bulletin board shall not exceed eight feet in height.

3. The sign face shall not exceed 50 square feet in area. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

The following sign regulations apply to the C-1, C-2, and CM zones.

• A. Freestanding Signs (Monument and Pylon).

1. Number, Size, and Height. The maximum number, size, and height of street-oriented freestanding signs shall be based upon the length of the street frontage of the property, center, business park, or cohesive business complex designed and functioning as one development. Signs erected for such development shall be regulated as established in Table 3-11.

2. Location Relative to Right-of-Way and Adjacent Property. Allowed signs shall be located minimum of five feet from any public right-of-way and a minimum of five feet from any adjacent property. Where the adjacent property is in a residential zone, the minimum setback shall be 15 feet.

3. Multiple Tenant Signs. On a street-oriented freestanding sign advertising multiple tenants, the minimum size of a single tenant's portion of such sign shall be not less than twelve 12 square feet in area.

4. Design of Street-Oriented Signs. All street-oriented freestanding signs and sign structures shall incorporate architectural elements, materials, and colors of the building(s) to which they relate. Exposed support posts, angle irons, conduits, cables or other similar structural and electrical elements are not permitted. If the architectural features, color, or exterior materials of the building(s) are changed, the sign structure shall be similarly changed.

5. Street Address Required on Monument Signs. The street address number(s) of the property(ies) represented by a monument sign shall be included on all faces of the monument structure in six-inch high numerals. The area required for the numerals shall not be counted towards the maximum permitted sign area.

B. Directory Signs. Directory signs are allowed only on properties, centers, or business parks exceeding five acres in size. Such signs shall be subject to the approval of the Director with regard to the number, size, and location. In no event shall any single directory sign exceed 50 square feet in sign area and eight feet in height.

C. Drive-through Business Signs. Drive-through businesses are allowed a maximum of two additional outdoor freestanding or wall-mounted menu board signs for the purpose of advertising services rendered or products sold on the premises. Each individual sign shall not exceed 40 square feet in area, or 60 feet combined area, and shall not exceed eight feet in height measured from finished grade. See also 10.50.090 (Menu and Drive-up Boards). D. Signs on Buildings.

1. Tenant Identification Signs. Any tenant identification wall sign erected after the effective date of this Chapter in an existing multiple-tenant development shall comply with the following standards unless the property owner or designee applies for and is granted approval of a master sign program pursuant to Section 10.34.140 (Master Sign Programs).

a. Each tenant space is allowed one tenant identification wall sign on each side of the building facing a public street or parking facility for the building or where the main entrance is located. Each sign shall not exceed one square foot of sign area for each linear foot of such side of the building. In no case shall a tenant identification sign exceed 200 square feet in total area.

b. In addition to the main tenant identification wall sign, for each building wall visible from a public street, alley, or parking facility, a secondary tenant identification wall sign is allowed for every 50 linear feet of building wall. Each sign shall not exceed one-half square foot of sign area for each linear foot of building wall, nor shall the sign area of each sign exceed 50 square feet.

c. Tenant identification wall signs shall be attached parallel with the building wall or building fascia and shall not project more than 18 inches from the wall on which they are mounted. Tenant identification wall signs shall consist of individually attached letters no greater than 18 inches in height centered on the wall to which they are attached. Such signs shall not exceed 70 percent of the width of the respective tenant space and shall be centered vertically and horizontally in a sign band. The sign shall not project above or below the wall or building fascia upon which the sign is attached and shall maintain a minimum clearance of not less than eight feet above finished grade. If the sign is overhanging a driveway, it shall maintain a minimum clearance of not less than 16 feet above finished grade.

d. The copy on tenant identification wall signs shall consist of individual letters attached to the building wall, including but not limited to channel letters and raised letters other signs involving one-piece panels may be considered. Such signs shall include scalloped edges, rounded corners, or similar design features to avoid a box-like appearance. If necessary to provide reasonable sign area, such signs may project above or below fascia surfaces subject to the approval of the Director.

• h. Sign color is limited to a maximum of three colors unless the use of corporate color schemes or logos dictates the use of more than three colors.

i. A maximum of two lines of copy is permitted, unless the configuration of a sign dictates that more than two lines of copy be used. Sign copy shall be placed on a horizontal line except if a corporate logo includes copy that is placed on other than a horizontal line.

2. Projecting Signs. In addition to tenant identification wall signs permitted above, projecting signs may be allowed subject to the following requirements:

• a. Projecting signs are allowed only as a secondary identification sign and are only permitted on walls of buildings within five feet of a public right-of-way.

• b. One projecting sign is allowed only at or near each public entrance to the building.

• c. Each projecting sign shall not exceed a maximum of four square feet in area.

• d. Projecting signs shall be placed perpendicular to the building wall and shall not extend above the level of the eave of a sloped roof or the highest point on a flat roof.

• e. Projecting signs and their supports shall not project more than three feet from the wall to which they are attached and shall not project over the public right-of-way.

• f. Projecting signs shall maintain a minimum vertical clearance of not less than eight feet from finished grade.

• g. The design, materials, and colors of the projecting sign and sign supports shall complement the style of the building and shall be consistent with design guidelines adopted by the City.

3. Address Signs Required. All building tenant spaces shall display the number of the building address on the building wall, window, or door above or next to the main entrance. In no case shall the numerals and letters be less than four inches in height. The area required for the numerals shall not be counted towards the maximum permitted sign area.

4. Awning Signs. The following regulations shall apply to awning signs.

• a. Awning signs shall only be located on valance panels that are horizontal or nearly horizontal. Such sign shall maintain a minimum clearance of not less than eight feet over any public or private sidewalk or walkway and 16 feet over any driveway.

• b. Not more than two awning signs are permitted per side of a building.

• c. Awning signs shall not exceed a total area of four square feet, and copy shall not exceed eight inches in height.

5. Marquee Sign. A maximum of two marquee signs for movie or theater uses are allowed subject to the following provisions.

a. For single-screen motion picture theaters and live performance theaters, each sign area shall not exceed 60 square feet per sign face. For a multiple-screen motion picture theater, the sign area shall not exceed 20 square feet per screen, up to a maximum of 200 square feet per sign face;

• b. Marquee signs can have a manual changeable copy or electronic changeable copy.

• c. The height of the letters shall not exceed 24 inches.

• d. The marquee sign shall not project above the parapet or roof eaves along the wall in front of which it is erected.

e. The content shall be limited to identification of the theater, the movie or other entertainment being offered at that location, the sale of any service or product available on that premises, and any other activity or sale associated with the premises. No off-site advertising shall be allowed.

6. Service Station Price Signs. Service station price signs shall consist of either a monument sign or wall sign and are subject to the following requirements. Service station price signs can have a manual changeable copy or electronic changeable copy. The sign area for price signs shall not count toward the maximum allowable sign area.

7. Monument Sign.

• a. The price sign shall be no more than 20 square feet in area and five feet in height from finished grade.

• b. The price sign shall be located so as not to impede the vision clearance triangle required by Section

• 10.24.030 (Vision Clearance Triangle at Intersections) and in no case less than five feet from a public right-of-way. In addition, the sign shall be located wholly on the property within a landscape planter.

• c. No more than one service station price sign is allowed on each street frontage.

8. Wall Sign. Wall-mounted price signs may be allowed on sides of buildings facing a public street in lieu of monument signs. Such signs shall be no more than 20 square feet in area.

9. Signs for Outdoor Uses. Uses that are not typically or reasonably conducted indoors and are allowed as outdoor uses per Chapters 10.12 (Commercial Zones) and 10.14 (Commercial-Manufacturing Zone) may maintain the following signs and devices.

• a. Advertising signs for outdoor displays of vehicular merchandise such as automobile, truck, and equipment sales and rental agencies are subject to the following limitations.

• b. The sign shall be located on, and if applicable, supported by the object being advertised and shall not exceed the dimensions of such object or project above such object.

• c. The sign shall only apply to the object to which the sign is attached or placed upon. Messages that are

divided into segments and displayed on separate items in tandem in order to provide a larger sign message are not allowed.

10. Flags, pennants, streamers, and banners may be displayed subject to the following requirements.

a. Flags, pennants, streamers, or banners shall not be attached to trees or other landscaping elements, shall be maintained and supported entirely out of public rights-of-way, and are allowed above, in, or immediately surrounding the area where products are displayed outdoors.

• b. No flag, pennant, streamer or banner may be attached to a structure that has been erected for the express purpose of supporting such devices.

• c. Flags, pennants, streamers, and banners shall be well maintained. If torn, missing, faded or otherwise in poor condition, the advertising device shall be immediately removed or replaced.

• d. Flags, pennants, streamers. and banners shall be removed immediately upon the termination of the use for which such advertising devices were intended.

e. The Director shall approve the sign plan application prior to the display of any flags, pennants, streamers or banners. In addition to the findings set forth in Section 10.34.060.E, the application may be denied if the number, size, and/or density of the signs being displayed are excessive so as to distract or interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

E. Permanent Window Signs. The following regulations shall apply to permanent window signs.

1. Permanent window signs are permitted on glazed window and glazed door areas located on the first floor of a building. Such signs must consist of professionally designed and produced decals. No painted permanent window signs are permitted.

2. There is no limit on the number of signs. However, the total area of all such signs on any one building face shall not exceed 25 percent of the total window area of that building face or a total of 40 square feet on that building

face, whichever is lesser. No portion of any window sign shall be located higher than 10 feet above the grade adjacent to the window on which such sign is located.

3. For purposes of public safety, window signs shall not be placed in a manner whereby the view into a tenant unit at eye level (approximately five feet) from outside a window is substantially obstructed.

4. Lighted and scrolling LED or similar signs are permitted, provided such signs comply with the provisions of this subsection.

F. Outdoor Murals. Outdoor murals may be permitted subject to the review and approval of the Commission. The review by the Commission is not intended to restrict artistic expression but to ensure that such mural is consistent with the following guidelines.

1. A mural shall not be located on a structure or in a district on the State or National Register of Historic Places, unless such mural was originally produced as part of that structure.

2. A mural shall be located on a uniform wall surface that is of a single continuous plane and surface material. The mural shall be centered and/or framed by the architectural features of the wall on which it is located.

3. The mural shall not advertise or depict products or services that are offered for sale, lease, or rent on the property on which it is located.

4. The maintenance of a mural shall be the responsibility of the owner of the property upon which the mural is located. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Purpose and Intent. Master Sign Programs are intended to provide for uniformity and design consistency within commercial or industrial developments. A Master Sign Program may include standards, criteria, and guidelines that are more restrictive than the requirements of this Chapter. As an incentive to creating signage that is well designed, attractive, appropriately proportioned, and architecturally compatible with the buildings on the site on which the signs are to be located, an approved Master Sign Program may allow for more flexibility with regard to sign area, number, or height of signs than what is otherwise permitted under this Chapter.

B. Applicability of Master Sign Program to New Developments. A Master Sign Program is required for multipletenant developments with four or more tenants.

C. Applicability of Master Sign Program to Existing Developments. Any existing single-tenant development located in a commercial or industrial zone which is converted for occupancy by four or more tenants sharing the same building or parking facilities is considered a new development project for the purposes of this section. No new or additional signs, other than temporary signs, shall be installed prior to the approval of a Master Sign Program.

D. Application; Approval by Director Required.

1. An application for a Master Sign Program shall be filed on forms provided by the Director and fees paid pursuant to a fee schedule adopted by Council resolution. The Director may act to approve, approve with conditions, or deny a Master Sign Program application.

2. If the applicant, pursuant to subparagraph A above, requests modifications to the sign standards contained in this Chapter 10.34, the application shall clearly state and illustrate the justification for such modification. In granting an approval for a Master Sign Program with modifications to the sign standards, the Director, or the Commission or Council on appeal, shall be required to make the following findings:

a. That the Master Sign Program complies with all applicable provisions of the General Plan and the purposes of this Chapter 10.34;

b. That the Master Sign Program provides for well-designed, attractive, and appropriately proportioned signage that is architecturally compatible with the buildings on the site; and

c. That signage erected and maintained pursuant to the Master Sign Program will not adversely affect adjacent properties and uses with regard to size, placement, or illumination. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Temporary Signs - General. The temporary signs identified in subsection C, below, are permitted in all nonresidential zones subject to the requirements stated in subsection C. All temporary signs, with the exception of temporary window signs, shall require the issuance of a temporary sign permit by the Director in accordance with procedures established by the Director and in accordance with subsection B, below.

B. Permit Approval Required.

1. Prior to the erection or use of any temporary sign as set forth in this Section, a temporary sign permit shall be obtained from the Director. If the application is submitted after the temporary signs have been erected, the fee charged shall be 150 percent of the permit fee.

2. A permit for a temporary sign shall not be issued for the same business or permittee more than six times in any one calendar year.

3. The applicant shall submit a detailed site plan and/or elevation indicating the proposed location of such temporary signs. The display of temporary signs shall not obstruct the visibility of the businesses or authorized signs on the site, nor shall the temporary sign obstruct the temporary signs of other businesses on the same site.

• C. Permitted Temporary Signs.

1. Banners and Pennants.

a. One banner is permitted for each tenant space, except that corner tenant spaces or freestanding singleoccupant structures may maintain a maximum of two banners, which shall be displayed on separate sides of the building at any one time. Pennants may be substituted for banners.

• b. Individual banners shall be limited in size to a maximum of 50 square feet.

c. A banner shall be attached to, and parallel with, a wall of the structure to which it is related, except where there are no structures involved, such as temporary outdoor events, carnivals, or outdoor promotional sales. In no case shall banners be suspended between separate structures.

• d. No one business shall be allowed to display a banner or banners for more than 90 days per calendar year.

• e. A business may erect a temporary sign consisting of a banner on a commercial or industrial property where a new business is opening or has opened at that property where the sign is displayed. Such sign shall not exceed a total sign area of 50 square feet and shall be securely affixed to the structure in which the business being advertised is located. Such sign shall not be displayed for more than any one 90-day period.

f. Notwithstanding the above, banners are permitted on freestanding light poles within commercial centers that are 10 acres or more in area, with the banners limited to providing identity of the center or to promote special events, community events, or holidays.

2. Balloon Displays.

• a. Balloon displays are limited to air or helium-filled balloons that are individually not larger than three and

one-half cubic feet in volume. Such balloons shall not extend beyond 10 feet from the point of attachment and shall not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

• b. No more than one balloon for each lineal foot of street frontage is allowed.

• c. No one business shall be allowed to maintain a balloon for more than 90 days per calendar year.

3. Temporary Window Signs. Temporary window signs shall not exceed 25 percent of the window area of the window in which they are placed and for the purposes of public safety, shall not be placed or extend higher than five feet above the grade adjacent to the window on which such sign is located.

4. Hand-Held Sign.

• a. Commercial hand-held signs shall not be displayed within any public right-of-way.

• b. Commercial hand-held signs on private property are allowed where a business is holding a promotion or sales event and where all required business licenses and/or permits have been issued.

• c. Off-site hand-held signs are prohibited.

5. Other Temporary Signs. Other temporary signs that are not prohibited may be allowed with approval of a Temporary Sign Permit, subject to review by the Director and in accordance with criteria established by the Director. Such temporary signs shall not occupy required parking spaces, impede required pedestrian travel, or impede required vehicular access to and from the property or within the property. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Public Safety Necessity. The City recognizes the importance of signs for advertising business locations and services. An equally important function of signs is identifying businesses and locations clearly in a manner to emergency services and response personnel that allows them to provide a high degree of public safety protection. In recognition of this latter important function of signs, the City establishes the standards set forth in this Section.

B. Requirement for Supplementary English Language Characters. Every sign larger than four square feet of surface area erected in connection with any business within the City of La Puente which utilizes any non-Latin/Roman letters, symbols, or characters in 50 percent or more of its advertising message and in lettering readable from the nearest public street, shall be considered to be a non-English language sign. Each non-English language sign shall contain, at a minimum, a generic description written in English of the nature of such business, legible from the nearest public street. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Purpose and Intent. These provision regulate the establishment, operations, and maintenance of Electronic Display Billboards, as defined in 10.34.050. The City recognizes that Electronic Display Billboards can serve a community purpose through the generation of revenue for the City, for the advertising of products and services that may be of interest to community members, and for the provision of a medium to display public service announcements and emergency messages.

• B. Applicability. This Section applies to all Electronic Display Billboards in the City as follows:

1. The provisions of this Section are in addition to any standards or other regulations imposed by the required Development Agreement. However, where any standard(s) imposed by the required Development Agreement conflict with the general standards specified in this Section, the standards imposed by the Development Agreement shall prevail. In no case, however, shall the required Development Agreement allow for deviations from subsections D, F and I below, unless otherwise set forth in those subsections.

2. No Electronic Display Billboard shall be erected or maintained that does not comply with the provisions of this Section and any other applicable statutes or laws.

3. In the event of direct and irreconcilable conflict between any provisions of this Section and any other provisions of Chapter 10, or any other provisions contained in the Municipal Code, the more restrictive requirements shall govern.

• C. Application: Development Agreement Required.

1. Development Agreement. A Development Agreement, prepared and adopted in compliance with Section 65864 et seq. of the Government Code and the City’s Code, shall be required to allow an Electronic Display Billboard.

2. Mandatory Contents of Development Agreement. Each Development Agreement to permit an electronic display billboard considered by the City shall, at a minimum, contain language addressing the following:

a. Annual, quarterly, and/or monthly fees and other public benefits to be conveyed to the City. The City's intent and objective in requiring the payment of fees is to compensate for the aesthetic impact on the community associated with the presence of off-site signs.

b. Any allowed deviations from the development standards established in subsection E, and operational standards in Subsection F.1., below.

c. The amount of time each day dedicated to public service announcements, at no cost to the City.

d. Terms requiring periodic review of the Development Agreement, as may be required by law or otherwise established by the City.

3. Method of Review and Approval. The Development Agreement shall be filed, processed, reviewed, and approved or denied in compliance with Chapter 10.118 (Development Agreements). In addition, the following procedures shall be required:

a. The Development Agreement shall be filed with the Development Services Department, along with applicable fees, on forms provided by the Department.

i. The application shall be accompanied by accurate architectural renderings and elevations of the proposed electronic display billboard, as well as a scaled plot plan and elevations showing the locations of all existing structures and improvements on the subject property, and the proposed electronic display billboard.

ii. At the time of filing the application, the applicant shall pay a filing fee in compliance with a Council approved resolution. This fee shall be in addition to any other required fees relative to development of the property and shall be for the purpose of defraying the costs associated with City review and action on the application.

b. The Commission may recommend approval and the Council may approve the Development Agreement for an Electronic Display Billboard if all of the following finding can first be made:

i. The proposed Electronic Display Billboard is to be located in an appropriate area as defined by subsection D, below;

ii. The proposed Electronic Display Billboard is placed on its site in the least visually impacting manner; iii. The subject Development Agreement contains appropriate language addressing revenue for the City; iv. The proposed Electronic Display Billboard complies with all of the applicable development standards specified in subsection E, below, unless modified through the Development Agreement, as well as all applicable Federal, State, and local laws;

v. The placement of the proposed Electronic Display Billboard will not obscure or otherwise visually impact any Council-designated historical buildings;

vi. The placement of the proposed Electronic Display Billboard will not adversely affect residential use of property; and

vii. The placement of the proposed Electronic Display Billboard will not pose a traffic hazard.

c. The Commission may recommend and/or the Council may impose additional conditions as are deemed reasonable and necessary to ensure that the Electronic Display Billboard is consistent with the General Plan, compatible with surrounding land uses, meets the provisions and intent of Chapter 10, minimizes potential traffic hazards, and otherwise protects the public health, safety, and general welfare.

D. Location: Where Permitted and Prohibited.

1. Electronic Display Billboards shall only be permitted on City-owned property (as defined in Section

10.132.040 of this Code) in any nonresidential zone or within the Downtown Specific Plan area.

2. No Electronic Display Billboards shall be located any closer than 1,500 linear feet of another electronic display billboard, as measured from the centerline of each support structure.

3. No Electronic Display Billboard shall be permitted on or overhanging the roof of any building.

• E. Development Standards.

1. Sign Face Dimensions. The Electronic Display Billboard display area shall not exceed 672 square feet, exclusive of border, trim, and other special advertising features of additions.

2. Height. Unless permitted pursuant to the terms of the Development Agreement, the maximum overall height of Electronic Display Billboards shall not exceed 36 feet, measured from the finished grade of the Billboard structure’s base to the top of the billboard structure.

3. Support Structure. All proposed Electronic Display Billboards shall be designed to have a single cylindrical column support, and shall be structurally sound and designed with consideration to seismic safety. Billboard faces shall be in line with the support structure, and no cantilevered design will be approved.

4. Cutouts and Attachments. No cutouts or attachments shall be permitted, unless permitted pursuant to the terms of the Development Agreement.

5. Double-faced Signs. Bidirectional or double-faced Electronic Display Billboards shall be located on the same cylindrical column structure and shall be restricted to the following:

• a. The distance between sign faces shall not exceed eight feet ; and

b. Electronic Display Billboard faces located on the same structure shall be positioned back-to-back (i.e., their backs shall be parallel to each other) and within five degrees of perpendicular to the roadway from which they are to be viewed.

6. Mechanical Screening. Each sign structure shall, at all times, include a facing of proper dimensions to conceal back bracing and framework of structural members and/or any electrical equipment. During periods of repair or alteration the facing may be removed for a maximum period of 48 consecutive hours.

7. Billboard Owner Identification Signs. Billboard owner identification signs shall be provided on all Electronic Display Billboards and shall have a minimum character height of 12 inches.

8. Undergrounding of Utilities. The Electronic Display Billboard owner shall underground all utilities installed in connection with the electronic display billboard.

9. Compliance with other Codes. All Electronic Display Billboards shall comply with the appropriate detailed provisions of the latest editions of the California Building, Electrical, and related Codes.

• F. Operational Standards.

1. Unless permitted pursuant to the terms of a Development Agreement, the provisions set forth in this subsection shall apply to all Electronic Display Billboards. The images on the Electronic Display Billboards shall not change more often than every eight seconds, and transitions between images shall not exceed one second. The images shall change instantaneously, with no special effects or video. Any form of moving, animated, oscillating, or rotating images, or any other design intended to attract attention through movement or the semblance of movement on the whole or any part of the sign, or any other method or device that suggests movement, is prohibited at all times.

s between images shall not exceed one second. The images shall change instantaneously, with no special effects or video. Any form of moving, animated, oscillating, or rotating images, or any other design intended to attract attention through movement or the semblance of movement on the whole or any part of the sign, or any other method or device that suggests movement, is prohibited at all times.

2. Each Electronic Display Billboard shall include a photometric sensor that will adjust the intensity of the sign for daytime and nighttime viewing. The nighttime intensity shall be limited to 0.3 foot candles (over ambient levels) as measured at a height of five feet above the ground and a distance of between 150 and 350 feet from the sign under consideration, depending on the size of the sign. The City may further restrict the intensity of any electronic display billboard.

3. Electronic display billboards shall be required to provide for public service announcements, Amber Alerts, and other community service announcements per the terms of the required Development Agreement.

G. Column/Support Structure Screening Standards.

1. The area surrounding the base of the column structure of an Electronic Display Billboard shall be landscaped or screened in compliance with the requirements of this Subsection. The intent is to achieve a positive and creatively aesthetic treatment of the column structure as viewed from the ground level and to discourage graffiti.

2. The base around the column structure of the Electronic Display Billboard shall be screened from the adjacent uses. Examples of potential screening methods may include landscaping, decorative walls and fencing, or public art to achieve the intent of this subsection. Decorative walls and fences and public art may be used in conjunction with landscaping but may not be used by themselves to comply with screening requirements.

3. The plant materials used for landscaping shall be drought-resistant and irrigated with an automatic drip irrigation system.

• H. Ladders Prohibited. The installation and/or maintenance of a ladder or any other feature that allows unauthorized access to the column structure or sign face of any Electronic Display Billboard is prohibited.

• I. General Standards. Unless otherwise specified in this section, the general advertising requirements specified in the Business and Professions Code, Division 3, Chapter 2, shall apply to plans and materials for and to design, construction, identification and maintenance of Electronic Display Billboards under this Section.

• J. Maintenance Standards.

1. All Electronic Display Billboards shall be maintained in good condition and working order at all times, and free of graffiti, peeling pain, faded colors, and/or damaged materials.

2. Notwithstanding the requirements of Section 3.44.040 of the Municipal Code, when Electronic Display Billboard is defaced with graffiti, the sign owner shall remove the graffiti within 48 hours after having received mailed or electronic notice by the City. (Ord. 964 §§ 4 - 5, 2019; Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Light and Glare. No sign shall create light or glare effects that intrude into adjacent public rights-of-way or other properties.

• B. Emergency Access Considerations.

1. No sign or sign structure shall be installed, relocated, or maintained in any manner that will prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window, or fire escape.

2. Signs and sign structures shall not be located in any manner that constitutes an immediate hazard to the safety of, or block the path of travel of, pedestrians or vehicular traffic.

C. Avoid Conflict with Traffic Control. No sign shall by color, wording, design, location, or illumination resemble or conflict with any traffic control device.

D. Construction. All signs shall comply with the applicable requirements of Title 8 (Building Regulations) of the La Puente Municipal Code. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. All signs shall be maintained in a structurally sound manner and free from missing or defective parts, discoloration, peeling or faded paint or decals, bent, broken, or missing casings or faceplates. The display surface of all signs shall be kept clean, neatly painted, and free from rust and corrosion. Any crack, broken surface, malfunctioning lights, missing sign copy, or other unmaintained or damaged portion of a sign, including the sign structure, shall be repaired or replaced. Cabinet signs designed to accommodate plexiglass or plastic sign faces shall be so equipped at all times. Sign cabinets for vacant buildings or tenant spaces shall be covered with blank plexiglass panels.

B. Owners of properties on which signs not properly maintained may be issued a notice to maintain, alter, or repair the sign by the Director. Upon a written notice from the Director, the maintenance, alterations, or repairs specified in the notice shall be made within 30 calendar days after the date of receipt of such notice.

C. For wall-mounted signs, at such time that they are altered, maintained, or replaced, the wall surface behind and surrounding the wall mounted sign shall be cleaned, painted, and repaired to the satisfaction of the Director. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Determination of Legal Nonconformity. Any sign lawfully constructed and maintained prior to the effective date of this Chapter with a valid permit and/or other entitlement, and which complied with all applicable laws on the date of its approval and installation, is a legal nonconforming sign, provided that the Director determines that the sign is properly maintained and does not pose a danger to the public health, safety, and welfare.

B. Inventory and Abatement of On-Premise Signs.

1. Inventory of Signs. Within 270 days of the date of adoption of this Section, the Director shall cause to be performed an inventory of all on-premise signs within the City to identify those which are illegal or abandoned. For the purposes of this subparagraph, the term “illegal” denotes a sign which was erected without compliance with all ordinances and regulations in effect at the time of its construction and erection or use, and the term "abandoned" denotes a sign, which remains in place or is not maintained for a period of 90 days which no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, product or service available on the business premises where the sign is located.

2. Report. When the inventory has been completed, the Director shall report the actual cost of conducting that inventory to the Council so the Council may by resolution provide for the recoupment of that cost in the manner authorized by Section 5491.2 of the Business and Professions Code.

3. Abatement. Identified illegal and abandoned signs are subject to abatement as a public nuisance. Any sign, which does not conform to the requirements of this Chapter shall be brought into compliance with the requirements of this Chapter within 15 years of the date of adoption of this chapter. Upon expiration of the 15-year amortization period, the sign shall be removed, without compensation to the owner, or the sign shall be brought into conformance with the requirements of this Chapter. If the sign is not removed or brought into conformance with this Chapter within that time, the sign is subject to abatement as a public nuisance.

4. Nonconforming Signs Which May Be Abated Without Payment of Compensation. Any sign which does not comply with the requirements of this chapter and which may be abated without the payment of compensation pursuant to Section 5497 of the Business and Professions Code shall be brought into compliance with the requirements of this chapter as soon as may reasonably be accomplished and in no event later than six months after the adoption of this chapter. Any sign which is not brought into conformance with the requirements of this chapter within that time are subject to abatement as a public nuisance.

C. Temporary Signs. Temporary or portable nonconforming signs which were erected with a permit prior to the effective date of this Chapter may remain until the expiration of the permit, after which such signs shall be immediately removed.

D. Continuation and Maintenance. Nonconforming signs and/or other advertising which existed prior to the effective date of this Chapter may be permitted to continue as legal nonconforming signs, except as otherwise provided in this Section or unless ordered discontinued, modified, or removed as a public nuisance in compliance with the Municipal Code.

E. Modification and Maintenance of Legal Nonconforming Signs.

1. Nonconforming signs shall not be altered or reconstructed so as to increase the discrepancy between existing conditions and current standards for sign area, height, or setback.

2. Sign copy and/or faces on legal nonconforming sign cabinets, directory signs or street-oriented freestanding signs may be changed, provided that the sign cabinets or supporting structures are not replaced or removed, except temporarily for maintenance purposes.

3. The sign face of an existing wall-mounted cabinet sign shall be allowed to be changed if the new sign face will have an opaque background with illuminated letters, numbers, or symbols. No increase in sign area shall be allowed.

4. The existence of a legal nonconforming tenant identification wall sign shall not prevent the installation of a conforming freestanding sign, and vice versa.

5. A legal nonconforming sign must comply with all requirements of this Chapter regarding safety, maintenance, and repair.

• F. Restoration of Damaged Nonconforming Signs.

1. Whenever a nonconforming sign is involuntarily destroyed by force majeure to the extent of 50 percent or less of the appraised replacement value of the sign, as determined by the Building Official, the sign may be rebuilt and resumed. A Building Permit for the restoration shall be required.

2. Whenever a nonconforming sign is involuntarily destroyed by force majeure to an extent greater than 50 percent of the appraised replacement value of the sign, as determined by the Building Official, or is voluntarily razed or is required by law to be razed, the sign shall not be resumed except in full conformity with the current regulations for the zone in which it is located.

3. The extent of damage or destruction shall be determined by comparing the estimated cost of restoring the sign to its condition before the damage or partial destruction and the estimated cost of replacing the sign as it existed before the damage. Estimates for this purpose shall be reviewed and approved by the Building Official. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. Prohibition. No person shall paint, mark or write on, or post or otherwise affix, any notice, placard, bill, poster, card, sticker, banner or sign to any public or utility property within the public right-of-way, including upon any sidewalk, crosswalk, curb, lamp post, hydrant, tree, alley, telephone, telephone pole or lighting system, or other public alarm or communication system erected on public property.

B. Removal of Signs. The Director may remove or cause to be removed any sign unlawfully posted or affixed on any public or utility property. Such sign(s) shall be held for a period not less than 10 days during which the owner of the sign may claim the sign. In the event that the owner does not claim such sign within the 10-day period, the Director may destroy or otherwise dispose of such sign. The owner of the sign shall reimburse the City for the actual costs of removing, storing, and destroying or otherwise disposing of the sign. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)

A. When the Director determines a sign constitutes an imminent danger to the public safety, the Director may take appropriate action to abate the danger.

B. If any sign is removed to abate such a threat to the public safety, the Director shall notify the owner of such sign, in writing, stating the location where the sign is being held and that it will be destroyed if not claimed by the owner within 30 days after the date of such notice. The sign will be returned to the owner only upon payment of the cost of such emergency abatement. If the sign is not claimed within 30 days after the receipt of the notice, or within 10 days upon conclusion of a hearing requested by the owner as provided for in paragraph C of this section, the City may otherwise dispose of the sign.

C. The cost of such emergency abatement shall be charged against the owner of the sign and may be recovered by the City by an appropriate legal action or by assessment against the property. The person assessed shall be granted a hearing before the Planning Commission to contest the amount or propriety of the charge if such person requests a hearing within 30 days of notice from the City.

D. For the purposes of this section, a sign shall be presumed to be property of the person who owns the premises upon which the sign is located. (Ord. 935 § 3 (part), 2015)