305.05: EXEMPT SIGNS:

The following signs are exempt from the permit requirements of this Chapter provided they meet the applicable standards and obtain a building permit if required by law.

A. Government-Recognized Historical or Memorial Markers. Signs installed by a civic organization recognized by the City Council, constructed of bronze, stone, or other durable, non-combustible materials, or permanently cut into a masonry surface, and used to identify historical or memorial buildings or sites.

B. Temporary Business Transition Signs. A temporary attachment or covering made of wood, plastic, canvas, or similar material may be placed over an existing permanent sign during a business transition, such as a change in ownership or remodeling. The temporary sign must not exceed the size of the previous sign and may be displayed for up to one (1) year after a change in ownership. For maintenance, see Section 306.08, Maintenance.

C. Construction or Development Signs. One (1) sign per street frontage is allowed on a property where construction, structural alteration, or repair is planned or underway. Each sign may not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area. Construction signs must be removed after final building inspection.

D. Incorporated Product or Equipment Signs. Signs not exceeding four (4) square feet in area that are built into equipment or displays by a manufacturer, distributor, or vendor are allowed. This includes signs on ATMs, gasoline pumps, vending machines, menu boards, and branded umbrellas, as illustrated in Figure 305.05(D).

FIGURE 305.05(D): EQUIPMENT SIGNS

E. Flags. Noncommercial flags (e.g., national, State, civic, or organizational).

F. Handbills. Handbills, advertising circulars, etc., must comply with the standards and licensing contained in Chapter 3, Article II, of the Porterville Municipal Code

G. Real Estate Sign. One (1) on-site real estate sign per street frontage is allowed when a property is for sale, rent, or lease. Signs. Signs must be removed within five (5) days of the property being no longer listed or advertised for sale, lease, or rent.

H. Window and Entry Signs. Signs may be placed within six (6) feet of the building entrances for commercial, industrial, and office uses. In addition, government buildings may display shadowboxes.

I. On-Site Directional or Informational Signs. On-site signs are allowed for public or private developments provided they are not be otherwise prohibited or further regulated by this Chapter or any other provision of the Porterville Municipal Code. Uses with a drive-through service window may install one (1) additional sign under this exemption.

J. Reader Panels. Permanent reader panels are allowed for public, charitable, or religious institutions, provided they are located on the same property to which they pertain. These panels must be positioned so they do not create a hazard to vehicular or pedestrian traffic. Electronic reader boards are also allowed under this exemption if they comply with applicable zone requirements, do not include animation, flashing, or rapid movements, and display messages that change no more than once every three (3) seconds.

K. Civic Event Sponsorship. One sign per business that sponsors and contributes to sports activities held on public property may be placed at said property. The sign may be displayed for up to ninety (90) days before the event or season and must be removed within fifteen (15) days after the event or season concludes.

L. Transit Advertising. Bus stop shelter and bench advertisements authorized under the City’s Transit Advertising Policy are exempt.

M. City Welcome Signs. Signs placed, owned, or funded by the City of Porterville may be installed around the periphery of the city limits at major transportation routes, either within public rights-of-way or on private property with the property owner’s consent. (Ord. 1918, 10-7-2025)