§ 36-26. Sign Ordinance.

The purpose of this section is to enhance the use of signs in support of community development goals. It provides standards for regulation of height, size, location, number and appearance of signs, in order to preserve and enhance property values; to protect and improve the appearance of the City for residents and to attract nonresidents to live or trade; to encourage signing practices that will aid in informing the public; to prevent excessive and confusing sign displays; to reduce hazards to motorists and pedestrians; and to promote public health, safety and general welfare.

ATTENTION-GETTING SIGNS — Banners, flag signs, pennants, streamers, spinners, balloons, inflatable signs, search lights, beacons, flashing lights or messages and other similar attention-getting signs, as determined by the City's Public Services Director.

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AWNING — A shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a building. Constructed of non-rigid materials on a supporting framework.

BULLETIN BOARD — A sign used to announce a coming event or attraction or used to convey a specific message related to the building or use of the property on which the bulletin board is located.

CANOPY — An ornamental roof or fixed overhead structure used as a roof, which may or may not be attached to a building and which does not encroach into a public right-of-way.

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CONSTRUCTION SIGN — A temporary sign identifying architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers and lending institutions participating in construction upon the premises on which the sign is located.

CORPORATE FLAG — A flag identifying a business or firm.

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.2

ZONING

§ 36-26.2

DIRECTIONAL SIGN — An on-premise sign giving directions, instruction, or facility information and which may contain the name or logo of an establishment but no advertising copy, e.g. parking or exit and entrance signs.

DIRECTOR — The City of Oakdale's Department of Public Services Director.

ELECTRONIC MESSAGE BOARD SIGN — A sign capable of displaying words, symbols, figures, or images that can electronically or mechanically be changed by remote or automatic means.

ERECT — To build, construct, attach, hang, place suspend, paint or affix, but shall not include change of copy on a sign.

FACE OF SIGN — Area upon which the copy is placed.

HEIGHT — The vertical distance measured from the highest point of a sign to the grade of the adjacent street curb or the surface grade beneath the sign, whichever is less.

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IDENTIFICATION SIGN — Any sign whose copy is limited to the name and address of a building, institution, or person and/or the activity or occupation on the premises where the sign is located.

LIGHTED SIGN — Any sign which is illuminated either directly or indirectly by artificial light.

MASTER SIGN PLAN — A coordinated sign plan approved by the Public Services Director or in conjunction with development proposals approved by the City Council or Planning Commission, which includes details of all existing and future signs for all new non-residential projects with four (4) or more tenants.

MONUMENT SIGN — A freestanding sign where the foundation and supporting structure are visually an integral part of the sign creating a continuous form from the ground to the top of the sign. Monument signs shall be an integral and complementary element of the overall architectural and streetscape composition and shall be integrated with the building and landscape design.

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MULTI-TENANT PROJECTS — A non-residential project consisting of four (4) or more tenants.

OFF-PREMISES SIGN — A sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service, entertainment or attraction sold, offered or existing elsewhere than upon the same lot where such sign is displayed. The term off-premises sign shall include an outdoor advertising sign (billboard) on which space is leased or rented by the owner thereof to others for the purpose of conveying a commercial or noncommercial message.

OPEN AIR BUSINESS — An open air business is any business in which the stock in trade or a portion of the stock in trade is stored or displayed outside of a building.

POLE SIGN — A sign detached from any building or structure; the supports of which are permanently affixed on the ground.

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.2

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.2

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POLITICAL SIGN — Any temporary sign used in connection with a local, state or national election, referendum or measure.

PORTABLE SIGN — Any temporary, freestanding A-frame sign, consisting of two (2) message panels, either attached by a hinge or similar device along the top edge or placed on the ground with the base of each panel separated by a sufficient distance to allow the sign to stand upright without other support, or some variation thereof.

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PRINCIPAL FRONTAGE — That wall of a building or structure which has frontage on a public street, highway, parking lot, walkway or mall and which is designated as such by the owner or occupant for the purpose of determining sign area.

PROJECTING SIGN — A sign, other than a wall sign, which is attached to and projects from a building wall, roof or other structure not specifically designed to support the sign.

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ROOFLINE — The peak of the roof, the top of a parapet, or the top of the wall of a building.

ROOF SIGN — A sign erected or painted wholly on or above the roof covering any portion of a building or on any roof structure including roof-like facades.

SIGN — Any structure, device, fixture or placard using graphics, symbols and /or written copy designed specifically for the purpose of advertising or identifying any establishment, product, goods or services. However, a sign shall not include the following:

1. Legal notices, identification, information or directional signs erected by governmental bodies or public utilities.

• Flags and insignia of a government, school, religious group, or nonprofit organization.

3. A memorial plaque, tablet or cornerstone made an integral and permanent part of the building or structure.

4. Signs within a building which cannot be seen from outside the building.

5. Holiday decorations erected with City Council approval.

SIGN AREA — The area of the sign surface computed by calculating the area encompassed within any regular geometric figure which would enclose all parts of the sign (excluding structural supports, provided they are not used to attract attention). A sign with two (2) or more faces shall have only the largest face

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.2

ZONING

§ 36-26.3

included in area measurement if at no point are any faces more than one (1) foot from one another. All faces exceeding a one (1) foot separation shall be included in area measurement.

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SUBDIVISION SIGN — A sign indicating the name of a recorded subdivision, contractor or subdivider, owner or agent, and/or giving information regarding directions, price and/or terms.

TEMPORARY SIGN — A sign constructed of expendable material, such as paper, cardboard, vinyl, cloth or canvas, with or without a frame, or constructed as a permanent sign, and intended to be displayed for a short period of time.

TENT SIGN — A roof-like structure of fabric or similar non-rigid material attached to a rigid frame, movable or fixed, and provides protection from the weather and/or is used as a decorative advertisement.

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WALL SIGN — Any sign painted on, attached to and erected parallel to the face of an outside wall of a building and which does not project beyond the top or ends of the wall.

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WINDOW SIGN — Any sign attached to painted or marked on a window.

• A. SIGN LIMITATIONS AND PROHIBITIONS.

  1. The maximum height of any sign shall be as stated herein, but in no case shall a monument sign or pole sign exceed twenty (20) feet in height. No sign shall project above the roof line of any building to which it is attached.

  2. Wall signs shall not project more than eight (8) inches from supporting wall, unless otherwise specified. No display or messages shall be permitted on the edges of wall signs except the sign company's identification.

  3. No sign shall have or consist of any moving, rotating or otherwise animated part or any flashing, blinking fluctuating or otherwise animated light. In addition, no sign shall approximate or resemble in any way an emergency light or sign. The provisions of this subsection shall not be applied so as to prohibit the following types of signs:

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.3

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.3

• a. A sign showing time and/or temperature and which changes no more often than once every 5 seconds.

• b. A conventional clock face.

• c. An on-premises barber pole, of a length not to exceed 30 inches, of traditional design which shall be permitted to revolve during the time that a barbershop is open for business. Top of pole shall not be more than ten feet six inches (10' 6") above the ground.

• d. A permitted Electronic Message Board Sign, as defined in § 36-26.2 and approved under a Major Use Permit in accordance with § 36-26.3(L).

4. TEMPORARY SIGNS: Temporary signs outside setback lines or in public rights-of-way are not permitted except as follows:

   • a. Temporary signs, in excess of the maximum permissible sign areas, may be erected for public events for a period not to exceed fourteen (14) days during any ninety (90) day period; provided however, that the erection of such signs shall be approved through a sign permit by the Director as to location, safety and time period.

   • b. Temporary signs made of rigid materials shall be limited to a sign area of thirty-two (32) square feet.

5. No signs shall be attached to any street tree, or any poles such as utility poles, traffic signals, streetlight, street name signs or traffic warning signs, or on any bus shelter or bench within the public right-of-way, except for holiday decorations approved by the Public Services Department.

6. It shall be unlawful for any person to display upon any sign any obscene, indecent or immoral matter.

7. Off-premise signs are prohibited in all zoning districts except in industrial districts, or as specifically utilized to display civic events or road safety messages.

• B. PROJECTION INTO PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY: The permitted projection of an authorized sign into any street or alley right-of-way is as follows (Subject to the provisions of § 36-18.23 Vision Obstructions):

  1. Projecting sign: Six (6) feet into any street right-of-way and four (4) feet into any alley right-ofway, but not closer than two (2) feet to the face of the curb.

2. No signs are allowed to project into the public right-of-way at corners created by the intersection of public rights-of-way (e.g. streets, alleys, pedestrian walks).

   3. No temporary sign may encroach upon a public walkway, except as provided in 36-26.3(A4).

• C. VERTICAL CLEARANCE: No sign shall be less than eight (8) feet above a public or private sidewalk or sixteen feet above ground level in areas open to vehicular traffic except wall signs not exceeding three (3) inches in thickness.

• D. SIGNS WITHIN SETBACKS: Monument, pole signs and attention-getting signs taller than three (3) feet are subject to the provisions of § 36-18.23, Vision Obstructions.

• E. OBSTRUCTIONS TO DOORS, WINDOWS OR FIRE ESCAPES: No sign shall be erected,

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.3

ZONING

§ 36-26.3

relocated or maintained so as to prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window, fire escape, or exit way.

• F. SIGNS NOT TO CONSTITUTE VEHICULAR TRAFFIC HAZARD: No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any street, railroad grade crossing, or at any driveway in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of motor vehicles or at any location where, by reason of the position, shape or color, it may interfere with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device; or which makes use of the words "STOP," "DANGER," or any other word, phrase, symbol, or character in such manner as could interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic (See § 36-18.23, Vision Obstructions).

• G. CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS: All signs, including all parts, portions, units, and material comprising the same together with the frames, backgrounds, supports and anchorage therefor shall be manufactured, fabricated, assembled, constructed and erected in accordance with applicable Building, Electrical, and Fire Prevention Codes of the City of Oakdale; and in accordance with the California Building Code (CBC) and all other future revisions thereof.

  1. All signs constructed over or within five (5) feet of public street or sidewalk shall not have protruding nails, tacks or wires that would constitute a safety hazard. Electrical reflectors and devices may extend over the top and in front of signs.

  2. Solid conduit goose neck reflectors and lights shall be permitted on signs, roof signs, pole signs, and wall signs; provided, that the reflectors shall concentrate the illumination upon the area of the sign so as to minimize glare upon the street or adjacent property.

• H. Nonconforming Signs:

  1. A nonconforming sign shall be any sign which does not comply with the provisions of this section, but was law-fully erected and which was lawfully in existence and in use on the date of the adoption of this chapter.

  2. A nonconforming sign shall not be replaced, altered, reconstructed, relocated or expanded in any manner unless it is made to conform with all the provisions of this section except as follow:

     • a. Other nonconforming signs on the same property need not be made to conform as a result.

• b. Change in copy shall be permitted if no structural changes in the sign are necessary except that no change in copy shall be permitted for nonconforming painted wall signs.

  • c. Ordinary maintenance and minor repairs which will not increase the normal life of the sign and which are required for safety purposes shall be permitted. Structural alterations to a nonconforming sign are prohibited unless they are made to conform to all requirements of the City Code.
  3. If the use identified by a nonconforming sign is abandoned for a period of not less than ninety (90) days, the sign shall be removed unless it is made to conform to the provisions of this section. If such sign is not made to conform or if it is not removed within one hundred twenty (120) days from the time the use is abandoned, it shall thereafter be unlawful. "Abandoned" shall mean cessation of operation or change of use. "Abandoned" shall not mean an ownership change or a name change as long as there is no cessation of the operation for longer than ninety (90) days and the use is not changed.

• I. The permittee shall be required to agree to indemnify and hold harmless the City from all claims for

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.3

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.3

injuries to persons or damage to property by reasons of accidents resulting from the existence of any sign or other advertising structure owned, erected or maintained by the permittee; or resulting from the negligence or willful acts of the permittee, its agents, employees or workmen, in the construction, maintenance, repair or removal of any sign or other advertising structure erected by virtue of a permit issued under this section.

• J. Portable Signs:

  1. A portable sign, such as A-frame signs, not including attention-getting signs, are permitted provided they comply with the following requirements:

     • a. All portable signs require a permit from the Public Services Department prior to placement, which shall be renewed by the applicant on an annual basis as long as portable signs continue to be placed upon the premises. An annual permit fee as established by City Council Resolution shall be charged. Applicant shall provide the Public Services Department with sign models and proposed sign locations prior to issuance of the permit. Permits will be issued for those signs meeting the Sign Ordinance criteria.

     • b. No portable sign shall affect easements, nor restrict or impede pedestrians or disabled persons. Portable signs shall not restrict the clear vision of pedestrians or vehicles as determined by the Public Services Department.

     • c. Portable signs shall be no smaller than twenty-four inches by thirty-six inches (24" x 36") and no larger than thirty-six inches by sixty inches (36" x 60"). Sign size within the allowed parameters may be regulated by the Public Services Department depending on location and safety considerations.

• d. Signs must be finished in appearance and be produced upon a wooden, vinyl or metal structure with professionally produced letters and background which shall include the name of the business and may include products sold or offered. Coloring and lettering shall be of a complimentary nature. No banners may be attached to the portable signs but balloons may be attached so long as the sign and balloon combination does not exceed the allowed sign size.

  • e. Each business shall be allowed one (1) sign per entrance, with sign placed within fifteen (15) feet of the primary public entrance or occupied building space, but no business may have more than two (2) portable signs.

  • f. Signs shall be displayed only during business hours.

• K. Attention-Getting Signs:

  1. Attention-getting signs may be permitted in lieu of a portable sign provided they comply with the following requirements:

     • a. Attention-getting signs require a permit from the Public Services Department prior to placement, which shall be renewed by the applicant on an annual basis as long as the sign(s) continue to be placed upon the premises. An annual permit fee as established by City Council Resolution shall be charged. Applicant shall provide the Public Services Department with sign models and proposed sign locations prior to issuance of the permit. Permits will be issued for those signs meeting the Sign Ordinance criteria.

     • b. Each business shall be allowed one (1) attention-getting sign per street or right-of-way

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.3

ZONING

§ 36-26.3

frontage, but no business may have more than two (2) attention-getting signs.

• c. Attention-getting signs may be located anywhere on the parcel of the respective business or within the commonly managed shopping center with the landlord or property manager's permission.

• d. Attention-getting signs shall not be placed in the public right-of-way or in sight triangles. The signs shall not extend over public sidewalks, alleys, streets, obstruct the view of traffic signals or otherwise endanger the public.

• e. Attention-Getting Signs for New and Used Automobile Lots, Boat and Trailer Sales, and Rental Establishments shall only be subject to those standards as defined in § 36-26.3(M).

2. Standards:

   • a. Size: Maximum height fifteen (15) feet. Maximum area thirty-two (32) square feet per face.

   • b. Spacing: Minimum of fifteen (15) feet between related or non-related signs.

   • c. Materials: Attention-getting signs shall be constructed of durable materials sufficient to withstand inclement weather, as well as color fading due to sunlight. Metal, wood, plastic and UV-coated nylon are typical materials. Glass and other breakable materials are prohibited. No paper, cardboard, poster board, foam core board or similar materials will be permitted.

• d. Support: Attention-getting signs shall be self-supporting and weighed appropriately to withstand wind or being overturned by contact. Weights, if required, should be incorporated into the sign construction, not applied.

  • e. Illumination: Attention-getting signs shall not be illuminated.

  • f. Maintenance: Attention-getting signs are subject to the maintenance requirements of § 36-26.7 and shall be removed as soon as torn or damaged.

  • g. Display: Signs shall be displayed only during normal business hours and must be removed by close of business each day.

• L.

1. Electronic Message Board Signs, as defined in § 36-26.2, are permitted subject to the following requirements:

   • a. Major Use Permit Required. Electronic Message Board may be permitted with the approval of a Major Use Permit. The provisions of a Major Use Permit are provided in § 36-20.1.

   • b. An Electronic Message Board Sign may only be located in the following areas:

     • (1) Adjacent to a three (3) and four (4) Lane Arterials, as designated in the Oakdale General Plan, with a lot frontage on the required arterial not less than 200 feet,

     • (2) A shopping center of five (5) acres or more, and

     • (3) A public and quasi-public use as defined in § 36-.2.2. (For reference, public and

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.3

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.3

quasi-public uses include, cemeteries, churches, corporation yards, fire stations, hospitals, parks, public utility distribution substations, schools, communication equipment buildings, etc.)

2. Standards:

   • a. Size: Electronic Message Board signs shall not exceed forty-eight (48) square feet per each side of sign area.

   • b. Height: Electronic Message Board sign face shall not exceed a height of eight (8) feet as measured from the ground. The sign height may exceed this requirement if that portion exceeding (8) feet is an architectural element.

   • c. Design: Electronic Message Board signs shall be designed and constructed similar to the design of a Monument Sign as defined in § 36-26.2. The base of the Electronic Message Board sign shall be a solid structure of masonry, stone, or brick. The sign design shall be architecturally consistent with the property in which it is located.

   • d. Illumination: An automatic dimming circuit to reduce level of illumination glare between dusk and dawn shall be incorporated into all electronic message board signs. The sign's brightness shall not exceed 0.3 footcandle (over ambient levels) as measured using a footcandle meter at a distance of one hundred (100) feet from the sign face.

   • e. Hours of Operation: Electronic Message Board Signs may operate as changeable signs between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 10:00 P.M. and must be programmed to remain static between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M.

   • f. Frequency of Change: Copy, Messages, and Video may be changed at a maximum of once each sixty (60) seconds.

   • g. Off Premises: Message displayed shall only direct attention to businesses located on the site or business center. No off-site advertising is permitted. Community emergency messages authorized by the Public Services Director are permitted subject to the approval of the property and/or sign owner.

   • h. Audio: Use of any audio or sound producing device in conjunction with Electronic Message Board signs is not permitted.

   • i. Video: Use of any video images in conjunction with Electronic Message Board signs is not permitted.

   • j. Restrictions: Electronic Message Board signs shall be prohibited from containing animated, moving, blinking, or flashing images.

• Findings.

In granting any Major Use Permit for electronic message board and video signs, the Planning Commission shall make the following findings:

• a. The sign is designed and located in such a manner that it does not obstruct visibility of pedestrians or vehicular traffic.

• b. The sign as designed and located conforms to all provisions of the Zoning Code and to the goals and policies of the General Plan.

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.3

ZONING

§ 36-26.3

• c. Granting the sign request will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, convenience, or welfare, or injurious to other property or improvements in the vicinity.

• d. Sign design provides for integration with architecture and landscaping of the site to provide a unified architectural statement through the use of such means as consistency of colors, materials, and architectural form.

• e. Any nonconforming or illegal signs located on the site or business center shall be removed in conjunction with the installation of the electronic message board and video sign.

• M. New and Used Automobile, Boat, and Trailer Lots.

  1. Permitted Signs/Advertising Devices. The following additional types of signs/advertising devices are permitted for new and used automobile, boat, and trailer lots subject to the approval from the Public Services Department:

     • a. Automobile, boat, and trailer toppers (signs magnetically attached to the top, side, or hood of a vehicle, boat, or trailer) according to the following criteria:

       • (1) One sign/device per automobile, boat, or trailer.

       • (2) May not extend more than eighteen (18) inches above the roof of the automobile, boat, or trailer.

     • b. Antenna (slip-on) pennants, according to the following criteria:

       • (1) No more than one per automobile, boat, or trailer.

       • (2) May not project above the height of the antenna when fully extended.

     • c. Under the automobile hood signs (signs designed to fit under an open automobile hood), according to the following criteria:

       • (1) No more than one sign under hood of each automobile.

       • (2) May not extend beyond body of automobile.

     • d. Window stickers, according to the following criteria:

       • (1) Unlimited in size and number, as long as stickers are confined to automobile, boat, or trailer window only.

     • e. Display racks/ramps, according to the following criteria:

       • (1) No more than one rack/ramp per one hundred (100) feet of frontage.

       • (2) No portion of rack/ramp may be more than six (6) feet above grade.

       • (3) Not permitted within any front/rear/side yard setback.

     • f. Temporary or permanent Tent Signs, according to the following criteria:

       • (1) No more than one tent/awning sign per site.

       • (2) May not exceed a maximum height of fifteen (15) feet.

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.3

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.3

• (3) May not exceed a maximum area of twenty feet by forty feet (20' x 40').

2. Signs/Advertising Devices Requiring a Permit. The following additional types of signs/ advertising devices require a permit from the Public Services Department prior to placement, which shall be renewed by the applicant on an annual basis as long as the sign(s) continue to be placed upon the premises:

   • a. Pole banners, consisting of vertical fixed panels mounted at the tops and bottom with brackets on private light standards or poles, according to the following criteria:

     • (1) No more than one permanent light standard or pole, or two (2) if directly opposite each other.

     • (2) May not exceed sixty (60) square feet in total area.

     • (3) Must have a minimum vertical clearance of eight (8) feet.

     • (4) May not extend above the top of the light standard or pole it is attached to.

     • (5) Not permitted off-site or on public utility poles.

   • b.

     • Attention-getting signs, according to the following criteria:

     • (1) Shall maintain a distance of thirty (30) feet between each attention-getting sign.

     • (2) May not exceed fifteen (15) feet in height and eight (8) feet in width.

     • (3) May not extend above the top of the light standard or pole it may be attached to.

     • (4) Must have a minimum vertical clearance of eight (8) feet.

     • (5) Not permitted off site or on public utility poles.

     • (6) Shall only be displayed during normal business hours and must be removed by the close of business.

   • c. Banners, according to the following criteria:

     • (1) No more than one banner per street frontage.

     • (2) Each banner shall not exceed a maximum area of seventy-two (72) square feet.

     • (3) Banners may not be displayed above the roof line of any building, or above the top of any light standard, or pole sign.

     • (4) Banners may be located anywhere on the property that a permanent sign is permitted.

3. Automobile Rental Establishments shall also be subject to the provisions contained in this section.

4. Maintenance. All signs/advertising devices permitted by this section shall be maintained to the satisfaction of the Public Services Department at all times.

5. Review/Approval Process. The Public Services Department review and approval is required for display racks/ramps, tent/awning signs, and any other signs which require a building permit. All other additional signs do not require formal approval as long as they adhere in type, size,

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.3

ZONING

§ 36-26.3

location, and number to the standards noted above.

• N. Master Sign Plan.

A master sign plan provides a process for the City's review of, and decisions related to, requests for signs for multi-tenant projects. The intent of a master sign plan is to allow for the integration of a project's signs with the design of the structures to achieve a unified architectural statement and to approve common sign regulations for multi-tenant projects.

1. Applicability.

A master sign plan is required for the following activities:

• a. All new non-residential projects with four (4) or more tenants.

  • b. Significant modifications to existing signs or the addition of new signage within an existing non-residential project with four (4) or more tenants.

  • c. Major rehabilitation work on an existing non-residential project with four (4) or more tenants that involves exterior remodeling and/or the application proposes modification to existing signs on the site within a one-year period. For the purposes of this section, major rehabilitation means adding more than fifty (50%) percent to the gross floor area of the building(s), or exterior redesign of more than fifty (50%) percent of the length of any facade within the project.

  • d. All signs installed or replaced within the non-residential project shall comply with the approved master sign plan.

2. Review Process.

   • a. The application shall include architectural elevations and plans of all proposed signs drawn to scale, with all dimensions noted, and include illustrations of copy, colors, materials, and samples of the proposed colors and materials. The plans submitted shall also show the location of each sign on buildings and the site. Finally, the application shall provide standards for the uniform style, construction, size, and placement of signs within the proposed project.

   • b. After receipt of a master sign plan application, the Public Services Director shall render a decision to approve or deny the request within thirty (30) working days. Prior to denial of the application, the director shall identify and request any modifications necessary in order to approve the application. Such a review shall ensure that any sign proposal is in conformance with this title and is consistent with its intent and purpose.

A master sign plan, or revisions thereto, may be approved only when the designated approving authority makes all of the following findings:

• a. The proposed master sign plan is consistent with the standards for signs as provided in § 36-26 (Sign Ordinance).

• b. The size, location, and design of the signs are visually complementary and compatible with the scale and architectural style of the primary structures on the site, any prominent natural features on the site, and structures and prominent natural features on adjacent properties in

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.3

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.5

the immediate surrounding area.

• c. The proposed signs are in substantial conformance with the design review criteria provided in this title and any applicable design requirements.

• Compliance Requirements.

The Public Services Director may impose requirements when approving a master sign plan to ensure compliance with this title, applicable design guidelines and the General Plan.

• Modifications.

The Public Services Director may approve modifications to a previously approved master sign plan that was approved by the Director, Planning Commission or City Council if the director first determines that the modification(s) is minor and that the intent of the original approval, and any applicable conditions are not affected. A new master sign plan shall be required for modifications that would substantially deviate from the original approved master sign plan.

The following signs are allowed in all land use zones without a permit.

• A. Real estate sign not exceeding sixteen (16) square feet in area and six (6) feet in height, and which advertises the sale, rental or lease of the premises upon which the sign is located.

• B. Wall mounted home occupation and personal name signs not exceeding two (2) square feet in area, and indicating only the name and occupation of the resident.

• C. Signs denoting the architect, engineer or contractor when placed upon work under construction, and not exceeding ten (10) square feet in area.

• D. Professional occupation signs denoting only the name and profession of an occupant in a commercial building, or public institutional building, and not exceeding four (4) square feet in area for each occupant therein.

§ 36-26.5. Requirements For Signs By Specific Zone. [Ord. No. 953, §§ 6, 7; Ord. No. 995, Appx. A.; Ord. No. 1082, § 1, 2001; Ord. No. 1226-14 Exh. A; Ord. No. 1259-18]

It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, construct or maintain on any lot or parcel any sign of a type having an area and/or height in violation of the following specific requirements.

• A. R-A, R-1, R-2 AND R-3 ZONES:

  1. Signs allowed without a permit as specified in § 36-26.4, subject to the following additional restrictions:

     • a. Political signs, may be erected as follows:

       • (1) Political signs shall not be lighted either directly or indirectly, and are subject to the provisions of § 36-18.23 Vision Obstructions.

       • (2) Political signs shall be erected no more than sixty (60) days prior to the date of election and shall be removed within seven (7) days after the date of the election.

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.5

ZONING

§ 36-26.5

2. Signs requiring a sign permit:

   • a. For non-residential uses permitted by conditional use permit additional signing as follows:

     • (1) One bulletin board or sign not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area and eight (8) feet in height when associated with churches, synagogues or civic organizations.

     • (2) Canopy and wall signs limited to one-half square foot in combined sign area for each horizontal lineal foot of any wall. Canopy and wall signs may have external illumination only, no internal illumination shall be permitted.

   • b. For multiple-family developments and mobile home parks containing four (4) or more units there may be one identification sign limited to twenty (20) square feet in area and not exceeding six (6) feet in height located at each entrance to the park or building complex. In addition, at each entrance, there shall be an internally lit sign not to exceed fifteen (15) square feet in area containing a map showing the location of individual sites or units. Each site or unit shall also be identified with self-illuminated and clearly visible numerals.

   • c. One construction sign over ten (10) square feet but not exceeding twenty (20) square feet in area and six (6) feet in height; provided that such sign shall be removed not later than (30) thirty days after construction is completed.

   • d. One double sided on-site subdivision sign not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area per sign face and ten (10) feet in height for each recorded subdivision; provided that such sign shall be removed not later than two (2) years from the recording date of the subdivision, except as follows:

     • (1) Where building permits have been taken out for more than one-half but less than seventy-five (75%) percent of the lots in such subdivision at the end of said two (2) years period, such sign may remain for an additional one year (1) period or until building permits have been issued on all the lots, whichever occurs first, provided the sign is.

     • (2) Where building permits have been taken out for one-half or less of the lots in such subdivision at the end of said two (2) year period, such sign may remain for an additional two (2) year period or until building permits have been issued on all the lots, whichever occurs first.

   • e. Unlighted subdivision directional signs not exceeding sixteen (16) square feet in area and six (6) feet in height for each recorded subdivision as follows:

     • (1) When the boundaries of any recorded subdivision or any part thereof abut an arterial, as identified in the Oakdale General Plan, one (1) subdivision directional sign shall be permitted which may be located on any vacant lot or parcel which is owned by the subdivision owner.

     • (2) When the boundaries of any recorded subdivision, or any part thereof, do not abut an arterial as identified in the Oakdale General Plan, two (2) subdivision directional signs shall be permitted, which signs may be located as follows:

       • (a) One such sign may be located on property not owned by the subdivision owner with the permission of the property owner on whose property it is to be located.

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.5

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.5

• (b) One or both signs may be located only on property owned by the subdivision owner.

• (3) Such signs shall be removed not later than two (2) years from the recording date of the subdivision, except as follows:

  • (a) Where building permits have been taken out for more than one-half but less than seventy-five (75%) percent of the lots in such subdivision at the end of said two (2) year period, such signs may remain for an additional one (1) year period or until building permits have been issued on all of the lots, whichever occurs first.

• (b) Where building permits have been taken out for one-half or less of the lots in such subdivision at the end of said two (2) year period, such signs may remain for an additional two (2) year period or until building permits have been issued on all of the lots, whichever occurs first.

• B.

1. All signs allowed without a permit as specified in § 36-26.4, subject to the following additional restrictions:

   • a. One (1) for sale or rent sign, not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area and eight (8) feet in height.

   • b. One (1) construction sign, not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area and eight (8) feet in height, provided such sign is removed not later than thirty (30) days after construction is completed.

   • c. Political signs may be erected, maintained and displayed provided each such sign does not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area, does not exceed eight (8) feet in height and the combined area of all such signs shall not exceed sixty-four (64) square feet. Such signs shall be erected no more than sixty (60) days prior to the date of the election, and shall be removed within seven (7) days after the election.

   • d. For temporary uses such as Christmas tree sale lots, pumpkin sale lots, and firework stands, one temporary sign may be permitted, not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area and eight (8) feet in height. The erection of such signs shall be approved by the Director as to location, safety and time period.

   • e. One corporate flag per use or occupancy, not exceeding twenty-four (24) square feet in area; dimensions relative to each other shall not exceed a ratio of 2:1. Such flags shall be flown from a flagstaff or flagpole.

• a. Each business shall be allowed one sign per exterior wall. The face of a wall projecting from another wall shall be considered part of the adjoining wall. The principal frontage may have a parallel or projecting sign on the wall or overhang plus a window or a monument sign. If a group of businesses occupy a space or suite, they shall be allowed only one sign for the group, subject to approval of a master sign plan. Individual types of signs are subject to the following restrictions:

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.5

ZONING

§ 36-26.5

• (1) Canopy and wall signs, provided that said signs shall be limited to the portion of a building wherein the use or occupancy is conducted. The maximum total area for each sign shall be based on the length of wall where the sign is to be located:

First 50 feet 4 square feet per lineal foot of building frontage; plus Next 50 feet 2 square feet per lineal foot of building frontage; plus Over 100 feet 1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage

• (2) Monument or pole sign not exceeding seventy-two (72) square feet in area. For parcels or properties that exceed three hundred (300) feet of frontage, an additional monument and pole sign may be permitted for each 100 lineal feet of frontage, subject to the approval of a Sign Permit and/or a master sign plan. Shopping centers shall be permitted one (1) monument and/or pole sign as described below in Subsection 2b.

• (3) Projecting sign not exceeding seventy-two (72) square feet in area; if any portion projects into or overhangs a public street or alley right-of-way, said sign shall not exceed forty-eight (48) square feet in area.

• b. A shopping center, subject to a master sign plan, shall be allowed one (1) monument sign and/or pole sign per street frontage, indicating the total shopping center use or listing of uses. The lettering for the listing of such uses shall be of a size not greater than one-half the size of the lettering of the shopping center name on such sign. In addition, each business in the shopping center will be allowed one sign per exterior wall, subject to the restrictions outlined above; except that no additional monument or pole signs shall be allowed within the shopping center.

• c. Directional signs located wholly on private property on the premises to which they pertain as follows:

  • (1) One (1) exterior directional sign per use per street frontage of the site not exceeding six (6) square feet in area and three (3) feet in height, and provided business identification shall not exceed one-half of the area on a given face sign.

  • (2) Two (2) interior directional signs for a drive-in restaurant or other eating place with drive-through facilities each sign not to exceed thirty (30) square feet in area and eight (8) feet in height. For other uses, any number of interior directional signs, each not exceeding six (6) square feet in area and six (6) feet in height.

• d. Service Station Price Signs: When the lot or parcel of land is used for gasoline service station purposes, in addition to any freestanding sign permitted under this section, there may be permitted on such lot or parcel of land one price sign per street; provided, however:

  • (1) That such sign shall advertise only the price of the gasoline sold and the hours of operation;

  • (2) Such sign shall not exceed an area of twenty-four (24) square feet;

  • (3) Such sign shall be subject to § 36-18.23 Vision Obstructions.

• e. Electronic Message Board Signs, as defined in § 36-26.2 and as approved under a Major Use Permit in accordance with § 36-26.3(L).

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City of Oakdale, CA

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.5

§ 36-26.5

• f. Temporary Signs approved by a sign permit from the Public Services Department prior to placement, which shall be renewed by the applicant on an annual basis as long as the temporary sign(s) continue to be placed upon the premises.

• g. Attention-Getting Signs, as defined in § 36-26.2 and approved by a sign permit from the Public Services Department prior to placement, which shall be renewed by the applicant on an annual basis.

• h. New and Used Automobile, Boat, and Trailer Lots, subject to the provisions of § 36.26-3(M).

• C. CC ZONE:

  1. Purpose: The Central Commercial (CC) District is a design district which requires a different level of review than signs within other districts. Except as provided herein all signs erected, placed, or copy change shall be subject to Public Services Department review of its design character consistency with the City's guidelines.

  2. General Exemptions: Exempt from design review, the requirement of a sign permit, or clearance by the Public Services Department except as required by the California Building Code:

     • a. All signs as provided for in § 36-26.4 and 36-26.5 B, 1a through d, except as provided for within this subsection.

     • b. Signs denoting the architect, or contractor when placed upon work under construction, and not exceeding ten (10) square feet in area, such signs shall be removed within fourteen (14) days of occupancy of the building.

     • c. Professional occupation signs with an area less than two (2) square feet, on a wall or fence denoting only the name and profession of an occupant is exempt from design review and may be permitted in addition to any other signs unless a formal tenant index sign is available.

     • d. Memorial signs and plaques installed by civic organization recognized by Council.

     • e. Official flags of the United States, other nation or country, State, County or municipality or internationally recognized organization, provided such flags are not a display for sale.

     • f. Non-advertising holiday decorations.

     • g. One (1) for sale or rent sign, not exceeding sixteen (16) square feet in area and six (6) feet in height.

     • h. Window signs text portion stating hours of operation, address, credit cards accepted and emergency information. Official legal notices issued by a court or governmental agency.

• i. Signs within a structure not attached to the window or within three (3) feet of the window face. Intent is to not primarily be a window sign if seen from the window, or only part of a display.

  3. Temporary Signs: Temporary signs require a sign permit from the Public Services Department prior to placement, which shall be renewed by the applicant on an annual basis as long as the temporary sign(s) continue to be placed upon the premises. Regardless of the status or conformity of all other on-premises signs temporary signs are permitted subject to the following

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.5

ZONING

§ 36-26.5

exceptions, standards and limitations:

• a. No sign shall be greater than twenty (20) square feet in area. A maximum of two (2) such signs are permitted at any one time; and,

• b. Without notice to the Director, temporary window signs related to pricing and sales may be permitted on the windows facing out which do not cover more than thirty-three (33%) percent of the individual window surface or group of windows facing a street for a period not to exceed fourteen (14) days use during any ninety (90) day period.

• c. Without notice to the Director, special event signs and civic event signs with an area of less than six (6) square feet, may be placed in windows or upon a building face for up to fourteen (14) days use during any ninety (90) day period.

• d. Special event signs and civic event signs larger than six (6) square feet, may be approved for a limited period of time as a means of publicizing special events such as grand openings, carnivals, parades, charitable events. Such special event signs shall be limited to the following provisions:

  • (1) That non-window special event signs shall be limited to thirty (30) days per event from the date of erection.

  • (2) Special event signs shall not include promotional sales signs.

  • (3) Special event grand opening signs may include beacons, pennants, and streamers, but not inflated devices except for a fourteen (14) day period.

4. Prohibited Signs: The following signs are prohibited and inconsistent with the sign standards for the C-C (Central Commercial) District and are therefore prohibited:

   • a. Abandoned signs per § 36-26.3H3.

   • b. Animated, moving, flashing, blinking, reflecting, revolving, or any similar sign, including electronic message boards. Neon and interior lit signs are not permitted, indirect lighting is permitted.

EXCEPTION: One (1) neon sign is permitted per business provided it is no larger than two (2) square feet with the copy "OPEN" only. Traditional barber pole signs approved by the Planning Commission. Awning may be internally lit provided it frames the awning and does not illuminate letters.

• c. Attention-getting signs, except as part of approved special event signs.

• d. Bench signs, chalkboards or blackboards, changeable copy signs, except as allowed by the Planning Commission.

• e. Off-site, off-premises or billboard signs, or permanent sale signs.

• f. Portable signs or A-frame signs except per the temporary sign provisions of this subsection unless approved by the Planning Commission.

• g. Signs on public property, except for traffic regulatory, informational signs, signs required by a governmental agency.

• h. Signs painted on fences or roofs or signs that are affixed to vehicles, excluding permanent

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.5

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.5

signs on commercial vehicles.

• i. Signs which stimulate in color or design a traffic sign or signal, or which make use of words, symbols or characters in such a manner to interfere with, mislead, or confuse pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

• j. No sign shall be erected so as to block views of buildings constructed or remodeled in conformity with the District's Design Guidelines.

• k. Signs not permitted otherwise which are not permanently attached to awnings or canopies.

• l. No sign shall be attached to any street, or any poles such as utility poles, traffic signals, street lights, street name signs or traffic warning signs, or any bus shelter or bench within the public right-of-way, except for holiday decorations or other signs approved by the City Council.

• m. It shall be unlawful for any person to display upon any sign any obscene, indecent or immoral matter.

5. General Requirements for Permitted Signs:

   • a. Attached to and parallel with the exterior wall of the building, no more than eight (8) inches from the wall. Such signs shall not project beyond the limits of the wall.

   • b. Signs may be erected perpendicular to the face of the building if attached to the exterior wall, under a marquee or similar structurally permanent extension from the building. Such signs shall not project beyond the limits of the marquee or roof. The sign display shall be limited to the two perpendicular sides. The signs shall not be less than eight (8) feet above the sidewalk level.

   • c. On awnings or similar structurally permanent extension, signs shall be applied parallel to the surfaces of such extensions and shall not project beyond the edges of the parallel surface.

   • d. Except as provided elsewhere, each business shall be allowed one (1) sign per exterior wall. The face of a wall projecting from another wall shall be considered part of the adjoining wall. Principal frontage may have a parallel or projecting sign on the wall or overhang plus a window or a monument sign. If a group of business occupy a space or suite, they shall be allowed only one (1) sign for the group, subject to a Master Sign Plan.

   • e. Material and lighting: Material for signs shall be non-glossy and natural appearing. Internal illumination, blinking, or moving signs shall not be permitted except as provided in § 36-26.5C4b.

• f. Non-advertising directional signs to aid vehicle or pedestrian traffic provided that such signs are located on site, have a maximum area which does not exceed three (3) square feet, have a maximum overall height of four (4) feet above grade, when mounted on the monument or decorative pole may be approved by the Director.

  • g. All new buildings and substantial facade remodels shall provide a proposed sign placement options plan to the Planning Commission. Purpose of this requirement is to ensure opportunities for signage is included in the projects design and to avoid future variance requests.

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.5

ZONING

§ 36-26.5

• h. Roof top signs on historical buildings may be approved by the Planning Commission under the following limitations: (1) the building has retained its' historical integrity; (2) documentation is provided that the historical building had rooftop signage in the past; (3) the sign shall not be internally illuminated; (4) the sign shall utilize historical materials and non-glossy colors and surfaces that integrate with the historical architecture, colors, scale and design elements of the building; (5) roof top signage that meets these requirements shall only be allowed in the historical CC: (Central Commercial) District.

6. Basic Sign Allowance Subject to the Approval of the Director:

   • a. Signs located in the lower fourteen (14) feet of the building with the exception of window signs. Window signs applied with paint or a decal are permitted in upper stories per other provisions of this Code.

   • b. Sign area: Except as provided for in § 36-26.5C6d signs parallel to walls or overhangs shall be limited to one-half (1/2) square foot for each lineal foot of building width, on the side where located, as measured on an elevation of the building, but in no case shall the sign area exceed one hundred (100) square feet. An equal amount of area may be allowed for a logo or trademark. Minor text or wording is permitted if it occupies less than ten (10%) percent of logo sign area.

   • c. Along Yosemite Avenue and F Street, each ground floor establishment shall be permitted a minimum wall sign of twenty (20) square feet provided no freestanding, or projecting signs are located on the same premises. No equal separate logo area permitted using this subsection, a logo area shall be considered as part of the area.

   • d. Signs perpendicular to exterior walls shall be limited to five (5) square feet with a maximum dimension of five (5) feet on a side.

   • e. Permanent window signs or window logos not exceeding thirty-three (33%) percent of the window area do not require the Director's review.

   • f. Multi-tenant directory signs in addition to other signs not to exceed seventy-two (72) square inches per tenant.

7. Basic Sign Allowance, Subject to the Approval of the Planning Commission along Yosemite Avenue and F Streets:

   • a. Signs located fourteen (14) feet, but not above twenty (20) feet above grade.

• b. Sign area: Signs parallel to walls or overhangs shall be limited to one-half (1/2) square foot for each lineal foot of building width, on the side where located, as measured on an elevation of the building. The Planning Commission may approve up to a twenty (20%) percent larger sign area. But in no case shall the sign area exceed one hundred (100) square feet.

  • c. Second story tenants are allowed equal signage area separately from the ground floor tenants. § 36-26.5C7 is not applicable to second story signs.

  • d. A building name sign, in addition to other signs, limited to buildings with at least two (2) tenants. Sign is limited and intended to identify the building and not a business within. Sign shall not be greater in size than the current one-half (1/2) square foot for each running foot with a maximum of fifty (50) square feet.

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.5

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.5

• e. Second story tenants are allowed equal signage area separately from the ground floor tenants. An equal amount of area may be allowed for a logo or trademark with more than ten (10%) percent of the area being in text. Area of text shall be counted as part of the total text signage permitted per § 36-26.5C7b. Except neither are eligible for twenty (20%) percent increase.

• f. Permanent window signs exceeding thirty-three (33%) percent of the window area in all areas of the C-C District.

• g. Signs perpendicular to exterior walls larger than five (5) square feet with a maximum dimension of five (5) feet on a side are permitted based on a determination of need: example due to visual physical obstructions such as trees or light poles. Maximum size is limited to ten (10) square feet.

• h. Businesses, fronting on Yosemite Avenue or "F" Street with sufficient setback, as defined in § 36-18.9. "Special Building Lines," shall be allowed one (1) free-standing sign. Freestanding monument signs shall be limited to twenty-four (24) square feet with an eight (8) foot maximum length. Maximum height from the public sidewalk level for monument signs shall be limited to four (4) feet. Individual letters shall not exceed twelve (12) inches in height. Where two (2) or more businesses occupy a building or commercial complex only one (1) monument or pole sign is permitted.

8. Nonconforming Signs: A legally established permanent sign which fails to conform to the CC District requirements shall be allowed continued use, except that the sign shall not be:

   • a. Structurally altered so as to extend its useful life. Expanded, moved or relocated or reestablished after a change in use.

   • b. Reestablished after a business has been abandoned for ninety (90) days or more.

   • c. Re-established after damage or destruction of more than fifty (50%) percent and the destruction is other than facial copy replacement and the display cannot be repaired within thirty (30) days of the date of its destruction, as determined by the Director.

• d. Sign copy and sign faces may be changed on nonconforming signs when there is no change in use of the site other than a name change related to ownership or when only a portion of a multiple tenant sign is being changed.

  • e. Legal nonconforming wall signs shall not prevent the installation of conforming, monument signs, freestanding or window signs.

  • f. Any nonconforming signs shall be required to be brought into conformance or abated in conjunction with any major remodel or reconstruction clearance which is hereafter granted on the same site.

  • g. The Planning Commission may approve continued use of nonconforming signs provided:

    • (1) Painted face signs (no mounted support) may not continue unless remodel does not include disturbance of the painted area, and or cleaning or repainting of the surface will destroy copy from an older era business considered a design feature link with Oakdale's historical past.

    • (2) Existing projecting signs may be retained provided the copy and face character is

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.5

ZONING

§ 36-26.5

considered consistent with the guidelines and the sign is not internally lit.

• (3) That the area of nonconforming projecting sign in excess of requirements shall be subtracted from the wall sign area permitted, except that despite the subtracted area, a five (5) square foot wall sign would be permitted.

• (4) Replacement of existing canopies and marquees do not require removal of other existing nonconforming signs. Placement of text on a marquee or canopy, being replaced, when other nonconforming signs exist may be approved provided the text area is less than five (5) square feet in area; and,

• (5) When facade or exterior remodel necessitates removal of a nonconforming wall or projecting sign, it shall not be reattached or replaced without meeting the District's requirements and guidelines.

• h. All existing window and non-temporary signs within the District effective the date of February 22, 1992 shall be considered legal nonconforming signs for the purpose of this Code.

9. Nonconformity/Abatement/Removal of Illegal Signs, on Premises:

   • a. Nothing within this subsection shall prevent the normal maintenance and repair of any nonconforming sign or sign structure during its effective life or as determined under § 36-26.7. Normal maintenance or repair shall be limited to only:

     • (1) Routine cleaning and painting without different text copy except for style.

     • (2) Replacing of nuts, bolts, screws or nails.

     • (3) Releveling or plumbing the structure without the addition of guys or struts for stabilization.

• D. L-M, and M ZONES: The following on-site signs are permitted except as otherwise stated:

  1. Any sign allowed, with or without a permit, in the C-1, and C-2 Zones subject to the same restrictions as in those zones.

2. Off-Premises signs are allowed provided that the sign does not exceed an area of one hundred (100) square feet, and twenty (20) feet in height. Off-premises signs shall be spaced no more closely than four hundred (400) feet apart on the same side of the street facing in the same direction.

   3. Electronic Message Board Signs, as defined in § 36-26.2 and as approved under a Major Use Permit in accordance with § 36-26.3(L).

   4. Attention-Getting Signs, as defined in § 36-26.2 and approved by a sign permit from the Public Services Department prior to placement, which shall be renewed by the applicant on an annual basis.

   5. Master Sign Plan shall be required in accordance with the provisions of § 36-26.3(N) for on-site signs of multi-tenant projects.

• E. PD (PLANNED DEVELOPMENT ZONES: The following on-site signs are permitted:

  1. Sign limitation shall be made a condition of each PD Zone and approval shall be based on the

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City of Oakdale, CA § 36-26.5

OAKDALE CITY CODE

§ 36-26.6

provisions of the zoning classification most closely approximating the uses proposed in the PD Zone.

2. Electronic Message Board Signs, as defined in § 36-26.2 and as approved under the adoption of a PD Zone or under a Major Use Permit in accordance with § 36-26.3(L).

3. Attention-Getting Signs, as defined in § 36-26.2 and approved by a sign permit from the Public Services Department prior to placement, which shall be renewed by the applicant on an annual basis.

4. Master Sign Plan shall be required in accordance with the provisions of § 36-26.3(N) for on-site signs of multi-tenant projects.

• A. Permit Required. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, it will be unlawful for any person to erect, alter or relocate within the City any sign without first obtaining a sign permit and any other permit that may be required. All illuminated signs shall, in addition, be subject to the provisions of the California Building Code, and the permit fees required thereunder.

Public Services Department approval is required in connection with the issuance of all sign permits and master sign plans, pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, except for signs subject to review and approval of the City Council or Planning Commission. The Public Services Department may refer signs or master sign plans to the Planning Commission for review and approval.

• B. Application for Sign Permit. An application for a sign permit shall be made in writing on a form prescribed by the Public Services Department and shall be accompanied by the required fee, in an amount established by City Council Resolution from time to time. The applicant shall submit plans, drawings and other supporting data as determined necessary by the Public Services Department. The Public Services Department shall establish and maintain a submittal requirement checklist for sign permit applications.

• C. Review of Application and Issuance of Permit. Within thirty (30) calendar days of initial submission, the Public Services Department shall determine whether the application contains all the information and items required by this chapter and other applicable laws.

Should the Public Services Department determine after review of an application, that the proposed sign is in compliance with all the requirements of this chapter and all other applicable laws, ordinances and regulations of the City and of the State, the sign permit shall be issued.

Whenever any sign falls entirely within the definitions of one (1) or more type signs, it shall be subject to the provisions of the most restrictive category.

The required fees shall be doubled for any sign erected prior to the securing of a permit when a permit is required, provided that the sign meets all legal requirements.

• D. Appeals. Any person objecting to any denial, suspension or revocation of a permit applied for or held by him pursuant to the provision of this chapter, or to any action taken by any official of the City concerning such permit, may appeal by written request to the Planning Commission as provided in § 36-22.

• E. Variance. When practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships would result from the strict application of the provisions hereof, variances may be granted by the Planning Commission as

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City of Oakdale, CA

ZONING

§ 36-26.6

§ 36-27.2

provided for in § 36-21, after making the appropriate findings contained in § 36-21.5.

§ 36-26.7. Enforcement. [Ord. No. 1160, § 1; Ord. No. 1259-18]

• A. If the City of Oakdale finds that any sign regulated in this chapter is unsafe or insecure, or is a menace to the public, or has been constructed or erected or is being maintained in violation of the provisions of this chapter, written notice shall be given to the sign owner thereof. If the sign owner fails to remove or alter the structure so as to comply with the standard set forth in this chapter, within ten (10) days after such notice, such sign may be removed or altered to comply by the City at the expense of the sign owner or owner of the property upon which it is located. The City may cause any sign or other advertising structure which is an immediate peril to persons or property to be removed summarily and without notice.

• B. The owner of any sign, including supporting structures, shall keep the same in a presentable condition at all times. All painted signs, and all supporting structures of any sign, shall be repainted whenever such action is necessary to keep them in good condition, as determined by the Public Services Director.

• C. Any sign which no longer advertises a bona fide business conducted, or a product available for purchase by the public for a period of ninety (90) days or more, shall be taken down and removed by the owner, agent or person having the beneficial use of the building or structure upon which such sign may be found, within thirty (30) days after written notification from the City of Oakdale, and upon failure to comply with such notice within the time specified in such order, the City is hereby authorized to cause removal of such sign, and any expense incident thereto shall be paid by the owner of the building or structure to which such sign is attached, or, if the sign is not attached to a building, by the owner of the sign.

• D. This section shall be punishable as an infraction, and subject to administrative remedies as set forth in Article V of Chapter 19.