Newark Municipal Code § 17.25.050 Sign measurement

The purpose of this chapter is to promote the public health, safety, and welfare through a comprehensive system of reasonable, effective, consistent, content-neutral, and nondiscriminatory sign standards and requirements. More specifically, this chapter is intended to:

A. Balance public and private objectives by allowing adequate avenues for both commercial and non-commercial messages;

B. Allow signs to serve as an effective channel of communication while preventing visual clutter that will detract from the aesthetic character of the city;

C. Protect and improve the local economy and quality of life by preserving and enhancing the appearance of the streetscape;

D. Maintain and enhance the city's appearance by regulating the location, number, type, quality of materials, size, illumination, and maintenance of signs;

E. Restrict signs that may create a nuisance to nearby properties, violate privacy, or create hazards or unreasonable distractions for pedestrians or drivers;

F. Provide clear and unambiguous sign standards that enable fair and consistent enforcement; and

G. Ensure that the constitutionally guaranteed right of free speech is protected.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)

The provisions of this chapter apply to all signs in all zoning districts, unless otherwise specified, constructed or physically altered on or after the effective date of this title.

A. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit a person from holding a sign while picketing or protesting on public property that has been determined to be a traditional or designated public forum, so long as the person holding the sign does not block ingress and egress from buildings, create a safety hazard by impeding travel on sidewalks, in bike or vehicle lanes, or on trails, or violate any other reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions adopted by the city.

B. The provisions of this chapter shall not require alteration of the display of any registered mark, or any trademark, service mark, trade name, or corporate name that may be associated with or incorporated into a registered mark, where such alteration would require the registered mark to be displayed in a manner differing from the mark as exhibited in the certificate of registration issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. It is the responsibility of the applicant to establish that a proposed sign includes a registered mark.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)

The following signs are exempt from the permit requirements of this chapter, and they do not count toward the total sign area limit for a site, provided that they conform to the specified standards.

A. Address Signs. Required address identification signs that are in conformance with the building code.

B. Commercial Displays on Vehicles. Displays on vehicles related to the goods or services provided by the vehicle owner or operator and public transit/public carrier graphics on properly licensed buses, taxicabs, and similar vehicles for hire that legally pass through the city.

C. Commercial Mascot Signs. Commercial signs held or attended by a person serving as commercial mascots.

1. Location. Limited to commercial and mixed-use districts.

2. Number. No more than two commercial mascot signs per business.

3. Maximum Size. The area of each sign held or attended by a person shall not exceed six square feet.

4. Timing of Display. Commercial mascot signs shall not be displayed during hours when the business establishment related to the specific commercial mascot sign is not open to the public.

D. Directional Signs. Directional and/or informational signs not more than six square feet in area for the direction or convenience of the public such as outlining/assisting vehicle and pedestrian circulation within a site, egress, ingress, and any public facilities such as restrooms, telephones, walkways, and other similar features.

E. Open House Directional Signs. Up to four off-site signs directing the public to "open house" events for the viewing of lots, premises, dwellings or structures that are for sale, lease, or rent, are permitted on private land, provided they comply with the following standards:

1. No sign or signs exceeds four square feet in area, or three feet in height from finished grade.

2. The sign or signs may not be placed more than two hours before the start or remain more than two hours after the conclusion of the open house event.

F. Flags. Flags erected and located in accordance with the following standards:

1. Location. Flagpoles shall not be located within any required setback.

2. Height. The maximum flagpole height is thirty feet.

3. Number. No more than two flags per lot in residential districts, no more than three flags per lot in all other districts.

4. Maximum Size. The maximum individual flag size is thirty-two square feet.

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.030.F: FLAGS]

FIGURE 17.25.030.F: FLAGS

G. Government Signs. Official notices issued by a court, public body, or office and posted in the performance of a public duty; notices posted by a utility or other quasi-public agency; signs erected by a governmental body to direct or regulate pedestrian or vehicular traffic; non-commercial bus stop signs erected by a public transit agency, or other signs required or authorized by law.

H. Historic Plaques and Commemorative Signs. Historic plaques, memorial signs or tablets, or commemorative signs indicating names of buildings and dates of building erection, either attached to or cut into the surfaces of buildings, provided that no such sign exceeds four square feet in area.

I. Interior Signs. Signs that are located in interior areas of a building or site not visible from the public right-of-way, and at least three feet from a window, door, or other exterior wall opening.

J. Mobile Vendor Signs. Signs fixed to mobile vending vehicles that identify or advertise the name, product, or service provided by the vendor. Each mobile vending vehicle is limited to a maximum sign area of eight square feet.

K. Nameplate. One nameplate for each tenant or occupancy not to exceed two square feet in area indicating the name of the occupant or tenant.

L. Off-Site Signs. Off-premises signs no more than six square feet in size.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)

Unless otherwise permitted by a specific provision of this Chapter, the following sign types are prohibited:

A. Animated or Moving Signs. Animated, flashing, blinking, reflecting, revolving, or other similar sign with visibly moving or rotating parts or visible mechanical movement of any kind, unless expressly permitted by another section of this chapter. This provision does not apply to signs using digital display technology, such as LED (light emitting diodes) or functionally equivalent display methods, which are permitted, subject to the regulations of this chapter.

B. Balloons, Inflatable Signs, Streamers, Pennants and Other Attention-Getting Devices. Balloons, inflatable signs, streamers, pennants, and other attention-getting devises, made of light-weight fabric or similar material, designed to rotate or move with the wind, that direct, promote, or that are otherwise designed to attract attention are prohibited except when used in conjunction with outdoor automobile sales.

C. Cabinet or Can Signs. Internally lit cabinet and can signs.

D. General Advertising. Temporary signs that publicize or promote other businesses or causes using methods of advertising (in contrast to self-promotion, on-site sales, or on-site advertising). General advertising is also known as advertising for hire.

E. Mobile Billboards. Any sign carried or conveyed by a vehicle for the primary purpose of general advertising for hire. The purpose of this prohibition is to eliminate mobile billboard advertising within the city in order to reduce traffic congestion, promote the safe movement of vehicular traffic, to reduce air pollution, and improve the aesthetic appearance of the city. This prohibition does not apply to displays on vehicles related to the goods or services provided by the vehicle owner or operator and public transit/public carrier graphics on properly licensed buses, taxicabs, and similar vehicles for hire that legally pass through the city.

F. Roof Signs.

1. Attached signs that extend above the roofline or parapet (whichever is higher) of a building with a flat roof.

2. Attached signs that extend above the deck line of a mansard roof.

3. Signs on rooftop structures, such as penthouse walls or mechanical enclosures.

G. Search Lights and Klieg Lights. Search and Klieg lights when used as attention-attracting devices for commercial uses.

H. Signs Located in the Public Right-of-Way or on Public Property. Other than official government signs or warning signs required by law, no inanimate sign can be placed in or project into the public right-of-way or on public property unless authorized by an encroachment permit.

I. Signs Affixed to Trees. Signs affixed to or cut into any tree or other living vegetation.

J. Signs on Terrain. Signs cut, burned, marked, or displayed in any manner on a street, sidewalk, cliff or hillside.

K. Signs of Certain Materials. Signs made of lights, roofing, siding, paving materials, flora, or balloons, or any other similar building, landscaping, or decorative component.

L. Signs Creating Traffic Hazards or Affecting Pedestrian Safety. Signs must not be placed or located in such a manner as to constitute a safety hazard or to impede the public use of the public right-of-way.

1. Signs placed, mounted, erected, or installed in any manner that obstructs use of any door, window or fire escape.

2. Signs mounted or displayed in such a manner that blocks or impedes the normal pedestrian use or public sidewalks. A minimum unobstructed width of four feet must be maintained on sidewalks at all times.

3. Signs located in such a manner as to constitute a traffic hazard or obstruct the view of traffic, any authorized traffic sign, or signal device.

4. Signs that may create confusion with any authorized traffic sign, signal, or device because their color, location, or wording, or use of any phrase, symbol, or character interferes with, misleads, or confuses vehicular drivers in their use of roads or conflicts with any traffic control sign or device.

5. Signs at or near any street intersection that will obstruct the free and clear vision of drivers and pedestrians. Other than traffic control signals, no sign can be installed in the visibility triangle at intersections, extending horizontally fifteen feet from the corner of the intersection and vertically, from a height of three feet to a height of eight feet.

M. Signs for Prohibited Uses. A sign displaying a commercial message promoting a business that is a prohibited use and has not been established as a legal nonconforming use.

N. Signs that Produce Noise or Emissions. Signs that produce visible smoke, vapor, particles, odor, noise, or sounds that can be heard at the property line, excluding voice units at menu boards and devices for servicing customers from their vehicles, such as drive-up windows at banks.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)

A. Measuring Sign Area. The area of a sign face includes the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares and rectangles that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, without limitation, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures, such as sign bases and columns, are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags. The area of an individual sign shall be calculated as follows:

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.050.A.1: MEASURING SIGN AREA]

FIGURE 17.25.050.A.1: MEASURING SIGN AREA

1. Single-Faced Signs. The sign area of a sign with a single face area is the area of the sign face.

2. Double-Faced Signs. Where two faces of a double-faced sign are located two feet or less from one another at all points, or located at an interior angle of forty-five degrees or less from one another, the sign area of double-faced signs is computed as the area of one face. Where the two faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face will be used. Where two faces of a double-faced sign are located more than two feet or greater than forty-five degrees from one another, both sign faces are counted toward sign area.

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.050.A.4: MEASURING DOUBLE-FACED SIGNS]

FIGURE 17.25.050.A.4: MEASURING DOUBLE-FACED SIGNS

3. Multi-Faced Signs. On a three-faced sign, where at least one interior angle is forty-five degrees or less, the area of two faces (the largest and smallest face) must be summed to determine sign area. In all other situations involving a sign with three or more sides, sign area will be calculated as the sum of all faces.

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.050.A.4: MEASURING MULTI-FACED SIGNS]

FIGURE 17.25.050.A.4: MEASURING MULTI-FACED SIGNS

4. Three-Dimensional Signs. Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks), may have a sign area that is the sum of all areas using the four vertical sides of the smallest rectangular prism that will encompass the sign.

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.050.A.4: MEASURING THREE-DIMENSIONAL SIGNS]

FIGURE 17.25.050.A.4: MEASURING THREE-DIMENSIONAL SIGNS

B. Measuring Sign Height. The height of a sign is the vertical distance from the uppermost point used to measure sign area to the existing grade immediately below the sign.

1. Height of Freestanding Signs. The height of freestanding signs shall be measured as the vertical distance from grade at the edge of the right-of-way along which a sign is placed to the highest point of the sign, including any structural or architectural components of the sign. When the grade at the edge of the right-of-way is higher than the site on which the sign is placed, that portion of the sign below the grade at the edge of the right-of-way shall not be included in determining the sign's overall height. Signs oriented towards a freeway shall be measured from the project site grade or pad, whichever is lower.

C. Measuring Sign Clearance. Sign clearance shall be measured as the smallest vertical distance between finished grade and the lowest point of the sign, including any framework or other embellishments.

D. Building Frontage. A building's frontage is considered continuous if projections or recesses in a building wall do not exceed ten feet in any direction. For buildings with two or more frontages, the length of the wall and allowable sign area shall be calculated separately for each building frontage.

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.050.D: BUILDING FRONTAGE]

FIGURE 17.25.050.D: BUILDING FRONTAGE

E. Street Frontage. The length of street frontage is measured along the property line adjacent to the public right-of-way.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)

This section establishes general standards that apply to all sign types and in all districts.

A. Applicable Codes. In addition to complying with the provisions of this section, all signs must be constructed in accordance with the uniform building code, the uniform sign code, the electrical code, and all other applicable laws, rules, regulations, and policies.

B. Changes to Copy of Approved Signs. Changes to the copy of approved signs that were legally established and have not been modified so as to become illegal are exempt from permitting pursuant to this title. Changes to copy do not include changes to the type or level of illumination of an approved sign.

C. Non-commercial Signs. Non-commercial signs are allowed wherever commercial signage is permitted and are subject to the same standards and total maximum allowances per site or building of each sign type specified in this chapter. For purposes of this chapter, all non-commercial speech messages will be deemed to be "on-site," regardless of location.

D. Message Substitution. A non-commercial message of any type may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any duly permitted commercial message, any non-commercial message may be substituted for any other non-commercial message, and any on-site commercial message may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any other on-site commercial message.

1. No Additional Approval. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval, permitting, registration, or notice to the city. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over non-commercial speech, or favoring of any particular non-commercial message over any other non-commercial message.

2. Limitations. This message substitution provision does not: 1) create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel, lot or land use; 2) affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted; 3) allow a change in the physical structure of a sign or its mounting device; or 4) authorize the substitution of an off-site commercial message in place of an on-site commercial message or in place of a non-commercial message.

E. Changeable Copy.

1. Manual Changeable Copy. Manually changeable copy shall represent no more than thirty percent of the sign area.

2. Automatic Changeable Copy and Electronic Message Center Signs. Electronic message center (EMC) signs and automatic changeable copy in which copy can be changed or altered by electric, electro-mechanical, electronic, or any other artificial energy means, are allowed subject to the following standards:

a. Permit Required. All automatic changeable copy and electronic message center signs require conditional use permit approval, except service and gas station price signs and time and temperature signs.

b. Display Duration. The display shall change no more frequently than once every eight seconds and must have an unlighted interval between copy displays of 0.3 second or more.

c. Static Message. Displays shall contain static messages only, and shall not have movement, or the appearance or optical illusion of movement, of any part of the sign structure, design, or pictorial segment of the sign, including the movement or appearance of movement of any illumination, or the flashing, scintillating or varying of light intensity

d. Light Intensity. 0.3 foot-candles over ambient lighting conditions when measured at a distance equal to the square root of one hundred times the area of the sign in square feet. All electronic copy must be equipped with a sensor or other device that automatically determines the ambient illumination and programmed to automatically dim according to ambient light conditions, or that can be adjusted to comply with the 0.3 foot-candle measurements.

e. Automatic Controls. All electronic message displays shall be equipped with automatic controls to allow for adjustment of brightness based on ambient lighting conditions.

F. Illumination. Illuminated channel letters and neon signs are allowed. However, cabinet signs are prohibited. Lighting fixtures used to illuminate an outdoor sign shall be mounted on the top of the sign structure, unless approved with a minor use permit.

G. Encroachment Permits. Signs mounted on private property may project into or above public property or the public right-of-way only with approval by the public works director of an encroachment permit.

H. Materials. Signs shall be made of sturdy, durable materials. Paper, cardboard and other materials subject to rapid deterioration shall be limited to temporary signs. Fabric signs are limited to awnings, canopies, flags, and temporary signs.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018; Ord. No. 505, § 3(Exh. A), 7-12-2018)

This section establishes the types and size of signs allowed per zoning district. These signs are also subject to the regulations in "General Provisions for All Sign Types" and "Standards for Specific Sign Types".

A. Types of Signs Allowed. Table 17.25.070.A establishes the types of signs allowed per zoning district.

TABLE 17.25.070.A: ALLOWED SIGNS BY DISTRICT

B. Allowed Sign Area. Table 17.25.070.B establishes the maximum aggregate sign area allowed per zoning district.

1. Sign Area Included in Calculation of Aggregate Sign Area. The sign area of awning and canopy signs, projecting and shingle signs, and wall signs is included in the calculation of aggregate sign area.

2. Sign Area Excluded from the Calculation of Aggregate Sign Area. The sign area of exempt signs, signage allowances for specific uses and development, freestanding signs, a-frame signs, window signs, temporary signs, and high-rise building identification signs are not included in the calculation of aggregate sign area.

TABLE 17.25.070.B: MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE AGGREGATE SIGN AREA

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)

This section establishes signage allowances for specific uses and development. These signs are allowed in addition to the signs allowed by district in Section 17.25.070, Allowed Signs by District, and are not included in the calculation of aggregate sign area. These signs are also subject to the regulations in "Standards for Specific Sign Types" unless otherwise stated.

A. Residential Developments. Residential developments of two or more units or lots are allowed freestanding signs and wall signs with a total aggregate sign area of one square foot per two dwelling units, subject to the following standards:

1. Maximum Number of Signs. One per street frontage.

2. Maximum Size per Sign. Twenty square feet.

3. Maximum Height of Freestanding Signs. Four feet.

B. Non-Residential Uses in Residential Districts. Non-residential uses that are the primary use on a site in a residential district are allowed total aggregate sign area of one square foot per eight feet of street frontage. Allowed sign types and the maximum sign area for individual signs is as follows:

1. Awning and Canopy Signs. Six square feet or twenty-five percent of the surface area of the awning, whichever is less.

2. Freestanding Signs. Six square feet.

3. Projecting and Shingle Signs. Six square feet.

4. Window Signs. Fifteen percent of window area.

5. Wall Signs. Ten square feet.

C. Menu/Order Board Signs. Outdoor menu/order board signs are subject to the following standards:

1. Uses Allowed With. Outdoor menu/order board signs are allowed on the site of a permitted drive-in, walk-up, or drive-thru facility.

2. Maximum Number. A maximum of two per business with a drive-thru facility and one per business with a walk-up window.

3. Maximum Size. The area of each menu/order board sign shall not exceed 32 square feet.

4. Maximum Height. Six feet.

5. Location.

a. Menu/order board signs shall be located adjacent to the drive-thru aisle or walk-up window; and

b. The signs shall not be located so as to impair the vision of the driver of a vehicle traveling either into, out of, or through the drive-thru aisle.

D. Display Structures. Display structures for pedestrian viewing are allowed in commercial and mixed-use districts pursuant to master sign program approval. Such structures may include enclosed displays or displays incorporated into the structure such as bus stop benches, kiosks, or weather protection structures.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)

This section establishes general standards for specific sign types that apply to all districts where such signs are allowed.

A. Awning and Canopy Signs. Signs painted on awnings, canopies, arcades, or similar attachments or structures are subject to the following standards:

1. Maximum Number. One for each establishment having entrance under or offering service under the awning or canopy.

2. Maximum Size. Ten square feet or twenty-five percent of the surface area of the awning, whichever is less. The sign area of awning and canopy signs is included in the calculation of aggregate sign area allowed pursuant to Table 17.25.070.B, Maximum Allowable Aggregate Sign Area.

3. Maximum Height. Fourteen feet.

4. Minimum Sign Clearance. Eight feet.

5. Illumination. Awning and canopy signs shall not be illuminated.

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.090.A: AWNING AND CANOPY SIGNS]

FIGURE 17.25.090.A: AWNING AND CANOPY SIGNS

B. Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs are subject to the following standards:

1. Maximum Number. One per 50 feet of street frontage.

2. Maximum Size. The maximum sign area per freestanding sign is listed below. The sign area of freestanding signs is not included in the calculation of aggregate sign area allowed pursuant to Table 17.25.070.B, Maximum Allowable Aggregate Sign Area.

a. NC, CMU, and CR districts: One hundred square feet.

b. CC District: One hundred fifty square feet.

c. RC District: Two hundred fifty square feet.

d. OP district: One hundred square feet.

e. BTP district: Sixty square feet.

f. LI and GI districts: One hundred square feet.

g. Public and semi-public and resource production districts: Sixty square feet.

3. Maximum Height.

a. NC, CMU, and CR districts: Twenty feet.

b. CC district: One sign may be up to forty feet. Twenty feet for all other freestanding signs.

c. RC district: One sign may be up to one hundred feet. Twenty feet for all other freestanding signs.

d. OP district: Twenty feet.

e. BTP district: Up to two signs per street entrance may be up to eight feet. Three feet for all other freestanding signs

f. LI and GI districts: One sign may be up to thirty feet. Twenty feet for all other freestanding signs.

g. Public and Semi-Public and Resource Production Districts: Eight feet.

h. All monument signs shall be up to six feet.

4. Additional Freestanding Signs in the RC District. In the RC district, one additional sign up to two hundred fifty square feet in size and up to forty feet high is allowed at each entrance from a public street. This additional sign is not included in the calculation of aggregate sign area allowed pursuant to Table 17.25.070.B, Maximum Allowable Aggregate Sign Area.

5. Placement.

a. Freestanding signs shall be located a minimum of five feet from any building.

b. Freestanding signs shall be located a minimum of twenty feet from the lot line of any lot in a residential district.

c. Freestanding signs shall be setback from all other property lines a minimum distance equal to one-half the height of the sign. Freestanding signs shall also meet visibility requirements at street intersections and driveways pursuant to Chapter 10.36, Visibility Requirements, of the Newark Municipal Code.

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.090.B: FREESTANDING SIGNS]

FIGURE 17.25.090.B: FREESTANDING SIGNS

C. Projecting and Shingle Signs. Signs that project horizontally from the exterior wall of a building or are suspended beneath a marquee, covered walkway, canopy, or awning, are subject to the following standards:

1. Maximum Number. One for each building frontage or tenant space.

2. Maximum Size. Nine square feet. The sign area of projecting and shingle signs is included in the calculation of aggregate sign area allowed pursuant to Table 17.25.070.B, Maximum Allowable Aggregate Sign Area.

3. Maximum Height. Fifteen feet.

4. Minimum Sign Clearance. Eight feet.

5. Projection Allowed.

a. Projecting Sign. A projecting sign cannot extend more than four feet from the building to which it is attached and must be designed and located so as to cause no harm to street trees. Signs projecting into the public right-of-way are subject to an encroachment permit.

b. Shingle Sign. A shingle sign cannot extend further than the outer edge of the marquee, covered walkway, canopy, or awning from which it is suspended.

6. Illumination. Projecting and shingle signs shall not be illuminated.

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.090.C: PROJECTING AND SHINGLE SIGNS]

FIGURE 17.25.090.C: PROJECTING AND SHINGLE SIGNS

D. Wall Signs. Wall signs include any sign attached to, erected against or painted upon the wall of a building or structure. Wall signs are subject to the following standards:

1. Maximum Number. One per building frontage or tenant space.

2. Maximum Size. Wall sign copy shall not occupy more than seventy-five percent of the length of the wall to which the sign is attached. The sign area of wall signs is included in the calculation of aggregate sign area allowed pursuant to Table 17.25.070.B, Maximum Allowable Aggregate Sign Area.

a. BTP District. In the BTP district, wall signs are limited to ten square feet per tenant.

3. Material. In commercial and mixed-use districts, wall signs shall consist of channel sign elements with the exemption of business logos.

4. Attachment.

a. Attached flat against or pinned away from a building wall, but shall not extend or protrude more than fifteen inches from the wall; or

b. Attached to the facade of a building or on a sloping roof (mansard roof), but shall not extend above the upper edge of the facade or the sloping roof.

5. Placement.

a. Wall signs shall not be placed higher than the second story of a building.

b. Wall signs shall not cover or interrupt major architectural features, including such features as doors, windows, or tile embellishments.

c. Wall signs shall not extend higher than the building wall upon which they are attached except on a peaked, mansard, or shed roof where the sign may be placed in such a manner that the highest point on the sign shall be no higher than the lowest two-thirds of the roof height and providing that the vertical dimension of the sign shall be no greater than one-third the vertical dimension of the roof.

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.090.D: WALL SIGNS]

FIGURE 17.25.090.D: WALL SIGNS

E. A-Frame Signs. A-frame signs are subject to the following standards:

1. Maximum Number. One per business.

2. Maximum Size. Six square feet. The sign area of A-frame signs is not included in the calculation of aggregate sign area allowed pursuant to Table 17.25.070.B, Maximum Allowable Aggregate Sign Area.

3. Maximum Height. Four feet.

4. Placement. A-Frame signs must be placed on private property directly in front of the business it is identifying.

5. Hours of Display. A-frame signs shall be removed during hours when the establishment is not open to the public and cannot be displayed after the activity with which they are associated with is over.

F. High-rise Building Identification Signs. High-rise building identification signs are allowed on buildings of at least four stories, subject to the following standards:

1. Maximum Number. One per street frontage.

2. Maximum Size. One square foot per linear foot of building frontage. The sign area of high-rise building identification signs is not included in the calculation of aggregate sign area allowed pursuant to Table 17.25.070.B, Maximum Allowable Aggregate Sign Area.

3. Location. Signs shall be located on the upper-most story of the building.

G. Temporary Signs. Any temporary sign, banner, balloon, pennant, valance or advertising display for any event of limited duration including, but not limited to, entertainment, sporting events, elections, construction, sales of goods, and real estate sales and rental may be erected and located in accordance with the following standards. Tenants and units include planned future tenants and units to be constructed for which a planning approval has been granted or for which a building permit has been issued.

1. RS and RL Districts.

a. Maximum Sign Area. Six square feet per street frontage.

b. Maximum Height. Six feet above existing grade.

c. Location. Signs greater than three square feet in size shall be setback from all property lines a minimum of five feet.

2. RM and RH Districts.

a. Maximum Sign Area. Twenty square feet per street frontage.

b. Maximum Height. Ten feet above existing grade.

c. Additional Individual Unit Signs. Each ground floor unit is also allowed one sign up to six square feet in size and six feet in height. Each upper floor unit is allowed one sign up to three square feet in size and located no higher than the eave line or parapet line of the unit.

d. Location. Signs between three and ten square feet in size shall be setback from all property lines a minimum of five feet. Signs ten square feet in size or larger shall be setback from all property lines a minimum of ten feet.

3. NC, CMU, CR, CC, and OP Districts.

a. Maximum Sign Area. Thirty-two square feet per street frontage.

b. Maximum Height. Six feet above existing grade

c. Additional Individual Tenant/Unit Signs. Each ground floor tenant/unit is allowed one sign up to three square feet in size and six feet in height. Each upper floor tenant/unit is allowed one sign up to three square feet in size and located no higher than the eave line or parapet line of the unit.

d. Location. Signs between three and ten square feet in size shall be setback from all property lines a minimum of five feet. Signs ten square feet in size or larger shall be setback from all property lines a minimum of ten feet.

4. RC, BTP, LI, and GI Districts.

a. Maximum Sign Area. Sixty-four square feet per street frontage.

b. Maximum Height. Ten feet above existing grade

c. Additional Individual Tenant/Unit Signs. Each ground floor tenant/unit is allowed one sign up to six square feet in size and six feet in height. Each upper floor tenant/unit is allowed one sign up to three square feet in size and located no higher than the eave line or parapet line of the unit.

d. Location. Signs between three and ten square feet in size shall be setback from all property lines a minimum of five feet. Signs ten square feet in size or larger shall be setback from all property lines a minimum of ten feet.

5. PK and TS Districts.

a. Maximum Sign Area. Six square feet per street frontage.

b. Maximum Height. Six feet above existing grade.

6. PF, OS, and RP Districts.

a. Maximum Sign Area. Twelve square feet per street frontage.

b. Maximum Height. Ten feet above existing grade.

c. Location. Signs between three and ten square feet in size shall be setback from all property lines a minimum of five feet. Signs ten square feet in size or larger shall be setback from all property lines a minimum of ten feet.

7. Time Limits. Temporary signs shall be removed within fourteen days after the conclusion of the event the drive, the election, or the purpose served by the sign.

a. Any such sign that remains more than fourteen days after the event shall be considered abandoned and the city clerk and/or public works director, or any of their agents, are authorized to remove the sign without notice.

8. Removal. The city clerk and/or public works director, or any of their agents, are authorized to remove any sign found to be in violation of this section and shall store the sign in a safe location. The city clerk and/or public works director shall reasonably attempt to contact the person or entity responsible for posting the sign, such as the organization, campaign, committee, and/or candidate. If the sign is not retrieved within fourteen calendar days after such notification, or reasonable attempt thereof, the sign shall be considered as abandoned and the city clerk and/or public works director, or any of their agents, are authorized to dispose of the sign without further notice.

H. Window Signs. Permanent window signs painted on or otherwise adhered directly onto a window and signs that block a window in any way are subject to the following standards:

1. Maximum Size. Twenty-five percent of the window area. The sign area of window signs is not included in the calculation of aggregate sign area allowed pursuant to Table 17.25.070.B, Maximum Allowable Aggregate Sign Area.

2. Height. Window signs shall not be mounted or placed on windows higher than the second story.

[Figure: FIGURE 17.25.090.H: WINDOW SIGNS]

FIGURE 17.25.090.H: WINDOW SIGNS

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018; Ord. No. 505, § 3(Exh. A), 7-12-2018)

A. Sign Permit Required. Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Chapter, it is unlawful for any person to affix, place, erect, suspend, attach, construct, structurally or electrically alter (not including a face change of sign copy), move, or display any temporary or permanent sign within the city without first obtaining a sign permit from the director. No sign permit is required for exempt signs and for cleaning or other normal maintenance of a properly approved sign, unless a structural or electrical change is made.

B. Design Review Required. All signs are subject to design review by the planning division.

C. Conditional Use Permit Required for Outdoor Advertising Structures (Billboards). Outdoor advertising structures displaying general advertising for hire are allowed when oriented towards a freeway in the RC and BTP districts subject to conditional use permit approval.

D. Applications for Filing, Processing and Review.

1. Filing and Filing Fee. Application for a sign permit shall be made upon forms furnished by the director and accompanied by the required fee and working drawings adequate to show:

a. The location, dimensions, construction and design, including colors, materials, lighting, electrical elements, and advertising copy, of the sign.

b. The location and dimensions of existing structures and the relationship of the proposed sign to existing structures.

c. The location, dimensions, and design of all existing signs.

2. Compliance with Standards.

a. Upon acceptance of a sign application, the director shall review the request for compliance with the standards and requirements of this chapter, and with any standards established in a master sign program pursuant to Section 17.25.110, Master Sign Program.

b. The director's decision shall clearly state any conditions of approval or reasons for disapproval and applicable appeal provisions.

c. No permit for construction will be issued until design review, if required, has been granted and the application has been found in conformance with the approved design.

E. Permit Number Identification. A tag issued by the city indicating the sign permit number shall be affixed to the sign so as to be readily visible by city inspectors.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018; Ord. No. 505, § 3(Exh. A), 7-12-2018)

A. Purpose. The purpose of a master sign program is to provide a method for an applicant to integrate the design and placement of signs within a project with the overall development design to achieve a more unified appearance.

B. Applicability.

1. A master sign program is required for:

a. Projects with four or more non-residential tenants,

b. Multi-unit developments of fifty or more units, and

c. Whenever five or more signs are proposed for a building or site.

C. Application. Master sign program applications shall contain all written and graphic information needed to fully describe the proposed sign program, including the proposed location and dimension of each sign, as well as proposed color schemes, font types, materials, methods of attachment or support, and methods of illumination. A master sign program application shall also include calculation of total allowed sign area, and total proposed sign area, for the site.

D. Allowable Modifications. A master sign program may provide for deviations from the standards of this chapter.

E. Review Authority. All master sign programs are subject to review and approval of the review authority for the project with which the signs are associated. A master sign program may be submitted separately or as part of the permit application for the project.

1. The planning commission shall be the review authority for any master sign program application requesting additional sign area, additional height, or an increase in the number of signs otherwise allowed by this chapter.

2. The director may, at his or her discretion, refer any application for a master sign program to the planning commission for a decision rather than acting on it himself or herself.

F. Required Findings. In order to approve a master sign program, the review authority must find that all of the following are met, in addition to other applicable regulations in this section:

1. The proposed signs are compatible in style and character with any building to which the signs are to be attached, any surrounding structures and any adjoining signage on the site;

2. Future tenants will be provided with adequate opportunities to construct, erect or maintain a sign for identification; and

3. Directional signage and building addressing is adequate for pedestrian and vehicular circulation and emergency vehicle access.

G. Lessees to Be Informed of Master Sign Program. Lessees within developments subject to the requirements of an approved master sign program shall be made aware of the master sign program in their lease.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)

A. Continuance and Maintenance. Reasonable and routine maintenance and repairs may be performed on signs that are nonconforming provided there is no expansion of any nonconformity.

B. Abandonment of Nonconforming Sign. Whenever a nonconforming sign has been abandoned, or the use of the property has been discontinued for a continuous period of six months, the nonconforming sign must be removed.

C. Restoration of a Damaged Sign. A nonconforming sign may be restored if it meets either of the following criteria:

1. A sign with damage that does not exceed fifty percent of the total sign area, including hardware and attachments, provided that the repairs start within sixty days of the date of damage and are diligently pursued to completion.

2. A sign that is a danger to the public or is unsafe as determined by the building official.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)

Each sign displayed within the city, including exempt signs, shall be maintained to comply with the following standards:

A. Graffiti on a sign shall be removed within two days of notice of its placement on such sign.

B. The display upon any sign area of a sign shall be maintained in good condition, without rips, tears, and similar damage.

C. All parts, portions, units and materials composing a sign, together with the frame, background, surface, support or enclosure therefore shall be maintained in a safe condition, painted, and adequately protected from weathering with all braces, bolts and structural parts and supporting frames and fastenings reasonably free from deterioration, rot, rust, and loosening so that they do not create a hazard to persons or property or constitute an attractive nuisance.

D. Any sign or sign structure that is sagging, leaning, fallen, decayed, broken, deteriorated, or other dilapidated condition shall be promptly repaired, to the satisfaction of the city, or removed.

E. Whenever any sign, by virtue of its physical nature and condition, poses an immediate and serious threat to the public safety, the sign may be removed by city personnel, or its physical deficiency cured, to the extent necessary to protect the public safety. The cost of such removal or repair shall be assessed against the sign owner.

F. An on-premises sign identifying an activity, business, service or product shall be removed within thirty days following the actual discontinuance of the activity, business, service or product. If the sign is not so removed, the director may have the sign removed in accordance with the public nuisance abatement provisions of this title.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)

Signs which do not conform to the provisions of this chapter and are erected after its effective date and signs erected after the effective date of this chapter without obtaining the permit required thereby are declared to be unlawful and a public nuisance. All signs declared to be unlawful by this section and all persons erecting or maintaining them shall be subject to the terms of Chapter 17.41, Enforcement and Abatement Procedures.

(Ord. No. 503, § 1(Exh. A), 1-25-2018)