Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code Ch. 17.75 Sign Code

A. 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 to balance the city's interests in aesthetics and traffic safety, on the one hand, the interest of nonresidential uses and their patrons to provide visible information relating to the services or goods provided, on the other hand.

B. The purpose of this chapter is, further, to provide clear and unambiguous sign standards that enable fair and consistent enforcement.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.010), 11-16-2021)

A. The provisions of this chapter apply to:

1. Any sign, sign structure, or display erected, constructed, attached, affixed, or altered on any private property that is visible from public property, private streets, or properties and structures adjacent to the parcel where the sign is located.

2. Privately owned signs in the public right-of-way, as allowed by section 17.75.120.

B. This chapter shall not apply to:

1. Signs or displays that are not visible (i.e., capable of being seen, whether or not capable of being read) by the general public from any public right-of-way or public area, or from an adjacent private property.

2. Any sign, posting, notice or similar signs placed, installed, or required by law by the city, the county, or a federal or state governmental agency in carrying out its responsibility to protect the public health and safety, including, but not limited to, the following:

a. Emergency and warning signs necessary for public safety or civil defense;

b. Traffic and parking signs erected and maintained by an authorized public agency or approved by an authorized public agency;

c. Numerals and lettering identifying the address from the street to facilitate emergency response and compliant with city requirements;

d. Signs directing the public to points of interest (e.g., wayfinding signs) erected by the city or other governmental agency; and

e. Signs showing the location of public facilities.

3. Signs neatly and permanently affixed to a vehicle, which do not project or deviate above or from the vehicle profile.

4. Signs that constitute an integral part of a permitted vending machine or similar facility located outside of a business.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.020), 11-16-2021)

A. This chapter is not intended to restrict noncommercial speech on the basis of its content, viewpoint, or message. To the extent any provision of this chapter is ambiguous, the term shall be interpreted not to regulate on the basis of the noncommercial content of the message.

B. No part of this chapter shall be construed to favor commercial speech over noncommercial speech. A noncommercial message may be substituted for any commercial message displayed on a sign, or the content of any noncommercial message displayed on a sign may be changed to a different noncommercial message, without the need for any approval or permit, provided that the sign otherwise complies with the provisions of this chapter.

C. Where a particular type of sign is proposed, and the type is not expressly allowed, restricted, or prohibited by this chapter, the application shall be approved, conditionally approved, or denied based on the most similar sign type that is expressly regulated by this chapter.

D. This sign ordinance provides for the maximum allowable signage.

E. In the event of any conflict between this chapter and any law, rule, or regulation of the state, the requirement that establishes the higher standard of safety shall govern.

F. 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 sign permit or sign program applicant to establish that a proposed sign includes a registered mark.

G. If any provision of this chapter becomes illegal, invalid, or unenforceable, the legality, validity, and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.030), 11-16-2021)

A. Sign permit. A sign permit is required to erect, move, alter, replace, suspend, display, or attach a sign, whether permanent or temporary, unless otherwise specified in section 17.75.050.

B. Sign program. The purpose of a sign program is to facilitate harmonious signs on multi-tenant commercial properties.

1. A sign program approved by the planning commission is required for any parcel with four or more businesses or commercial tenant spaces, regardless of whether the tenant spaces are occupied. A sign program may be requested by an applicant for a parcel with fewer than four businesses or tenant spaces but is not required.

2. Individual signs within each sign program must comply with the provisions of this chapter.

3. Once a sign program is approved, sign permits are not required for individual business signs that are installed in compliance with the sign program. Individual signs in compliance with an approved sign program can be approved by the director through a sign program compliance review.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.040), 11-16-2021)

A. Signs that do not require permits, as may be indicated in sections 17.75.090 (Standards For All Signs on Nonresidential Properties) and 17.75.100 (Standards for all signs on residential properties).

B. Governmental or other legally required notices or signs, including any city-required window signs for businesses.

C. The following sign activities, subject to any applicable technical permits:

1. The normal maintenance of a sign, including cleaning, repainting, or repairing, except when prohibited for a nonconforming sign.

2. A change in copy or sign face in the same style and color scheme as the existing sign.

3. Changes to the copy of a changeable copy sign.

4. Signs that have completed a compliance review by the director and are installed in conformance with an approved sign program.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.050), 11-16-2021)

• Sign permit and sign program application procedures; minor exception; permit denial or revocation; appeal.

A. Review. Sign permit and sign program review shall be performed solely for compliance with this chapter.

B. Application requirements. An application for a sign permit or sign program shall be filed with the director on a city-approved form and shall include the following information.

1. Sign permit application requirements.

a. Property owner permission for the applied-for sign permit or sign program, in writing.

b. A scaled site plan indicating location of all signs (existing and proposed).

c. Elevations indicating placement of all proposed signs, as well as color photographs no smaller than four inches by six inches clearly showing the elevation, placement, and sign area of all existing signs, including with relation to neighboring properties and structures.

c. Written descriptions of proposed colors, font styles, materials, fabrication methods, and letter sizes for each sign for which a permit is being requested.

d. The address where the proposed signs will be located, including the assessor's parcel number.

2. Sign program. Two copies of the following information. Approved sign programs will be kept by the planning division and used in the review of any and all sign applications made by the owner or tenants of the subject property.

a. Overall sign design, location, placement, and sizes of all signs proposed within the center, and any existing signs.

b. Fully dimensioned and detailed site and elevation plans, colored renderings that clearly show lettering design, including a colors and materials board, and written descriptions of each individual proposed sign, and any existing signs.

d. For any application involving the revision or addition to an existing sign program, the applicant must submit a new sign program application to include details of the proposed revision as well as a mailing list of the current tenants at the subject site.

e. The application must include the address where the proposed sign will be located, including the assessor's parcel number.

C. Other permits required. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, all signs shall comply with applicable building permit and/or electrical permit requirements.

D. Review and appeal authority. Table 17.75.060-1 identifies the responsible review and appeal authority for each type of sign approval. The appeal authority's decision shall be final.

Table 17.75.060-1

E. Sign permit findings. The director shall approve a sign permit application, with or without conditions, after making the following findings:

1. The sign complies with the standards of this chapter, any applicable specific plan, and any applicable previously approved sign program.

2. The sign will not impair pedestrian and vehicular safety.

3. The sign's design or proposed construction will not threaten public safety.

F. Sign program required findings. The planning commission shall approve a sign program application, with or without conditions, after making the following findings:

1. The sign program complies with the standards of this chapter, and any applicable specific plan requirements.

2. A sign program that does not comply with the standards of this chapter, shall be approved only if findings consistent with subsection I (Minor exception) of this section can be made.

3. The sign program standards will result in signs that are visually related or complementary to each other and to the buildings and/or developments they identify through the integration of predominant architectural materials, elements, or details of such buildings or developments.

4. The sign program will not result in signs that would impair pedestrian and vehicular safety.

5. The signs' design or proposed construction will not threaten public safety.

G. Application timelines.

1. Sign permit.

a. Completeness. The director shall determine completeness of a sign permit application within 15 days of submission. If the application is deemed incomplete, the director shall inform the applicant in writing, stating the reasons therefor. If the application is deemed incomplete a second time, it shall be denied without prejudice and a new application shall be required.

b. Decision of director. The director shall grant, conditionally grant, or deny a sign permit application within ten days after it has been deemed complete. In the event of an application being conditionally granted or denied, the director shall provide in writing the reasons therefor.

2. Sign program.

a. The director shall determine completeness of a sign program application within 30 days of submission. If the application is deemed incomplete, the director shall inform the applicant in writing, stating the reasons therefor. A sign program application may be resubmitted up to three times following a determination of incompleteness. Thereafter, an incomplete application shall be denied without prejudice and a new application shall be required.

b. The director shall set for public hearing before the planning commission a completed sign program application on the next available commission meeting, but in no event later than 45 days following a determination of completeness.

H. Sign permit or sign program conditions. Any condition imposed on a sign permit or sign program will be limited to protecting the public health and safety, or to ensure compliance with view preservation requirements of this Code, and will not affect the sign message, or have the intent or effect of reducing allowable signage for a property.

I. Minor exception. A minor exception to the limitations in this chapter may be obtained as follows:

a. There are special circumstances applicable to the property including size, shape, topography, location, surroundings, building placement, or architectural style that warrant modified standards to afford the property privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity and in the same zone.

b. The modified standards do not constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity and in the same zone.

c. The maximum exception allowed is a ten percent increase in sign area and/or ten percent increase in sign height for any individual sign, and only to the extent necessary to mitigate the special circumstances at the property

d. A minor exception may not be used to apply for or erect prohibited signs, or signs that would otherwise violate the provisions of this chapter.

d. An application for a minor exception may be filed pursuant to section 17.66.030 of this Code. The director shall grant or deny the application within ten business days of receipt. The director's decision may be appealed to the planning commission in writing, stating the reasons therefor, within ten calendar days of the date of the decision. The planning commission shall hear the appeal as a noticed public hearing no later than 30 days following the date of the city's receipt of the appeal. The planning commission's decision is final. The time for a challenge to the decision in a court of law shall be governed by Code of Civil Procedure § 1094.8. Notice of the planning commission's decision shall include citation to Code of Civil Procedure § 1094.8.

J. Modifications to sign permits or sign programs. An approved sign permit or sign program may be modified or amended through the same procedure as the original approval. However, minor amendments to a sign permit or sign program may be approved by the director if it is determined the intent of the original approval, required findings, and any conditions attached thereto, are not affected.

K. Permit denial or revocation.

1. A sign permit or sign program may be denied by that permit's review authority on the following grounds:

a. One or more of the required findings to grant a sign permit or sign program cannot be made.

b. The applicant has made material misrepresentations on the application.

2. A sign permit or sign program may be revoked by that permit's review authority on the following grounds:

a. Any condition of the sign permit or sign program has not been complied with.

b. Uncorrected violations of this chapter.

c. The sign is being operated in a manner that constitutes a public nuisance or is a threat to the public health and safety.

L. Appeals. A review authority's permit decision may be appealed in compliance with chapter 17.80, provided that the appeal must be submitted in writing within seven days of the reviewing authority's decision, and the appeal hearing shall be set no later than 30 days after the appeal is received by the city. When a final decision is issued by the planning commission or city council, the time for a challenge to the decision in a court of law shall be governed by Code of Civil Procedure § 1094.8. Notice of the reviewing body's decision shall include citation to Code of Civil Procedure § 1094.8.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.060), 11-16-2021)

A. Sign permit.

1. A sign permit expires 12 months after the date of approval unless the sign has been installed or a different expiration date is stipulated in the approval.

2. A sign permit expires when the activity, product, business, service, or other use that is being advertised or identified has ceased for a period of not less than 90 days or has moved from the location where the sign was allowed.

3. A sign permit expires when a sign is removed from the approved location for more than 90 days or a new permit is approved for a replacement sign.

4. Upon written request by the applicant, the director may extend a sign permit up to an additional 12 months from the original date of expiration based on parcel specific conditions justifying the original approval and whether or not those conditions have changed (e.g., physical site changes such as a new building or effects of a natural disaster, change in applicable sign regulations, etc.). The director may make the extension subject to new conditions of approval should parcel-specific conditions warrant revised or new conditions to meet the required findings.

5. Notwithstanding any expiration date that may be applicable to a sign permit, the expiration date of that sign permit shall be the same as the latest expiration date of the building permit or other applicable permits for the project for which the sign permit was issued.

B. Sign program. A sign program has no expiration date but will become moot if the project's entitlements expire.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.070), 11-16-2021)

A. Sign readability. A sign's message should be clearly legible for the intended audience (e.g., vehicular traffic, pedestrians, etc.).

B. Sign measurement criteria.

1. Sign area. The surface area of a sign is calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all framing, emblem, logo, representation, writing, element, or other display within a single square or rectangle. Unless otherwise indicated, temporary signs are not counted toward total (permanent) allowable sign area or number.

2. Sign structure. Supporting sign frame and support structures that are clearly incidental to the display itself are not computed as sign area, except for portable signs.

3. Double-sided signs. The area of a double-sided sign that has no more than 24 inches separating the outer surfaces of the sign's two parallel planes is computed by multiplying the total height by the total length of only one side of the sign area.

4. Three-dimensional objects. Where a sign consists of one or more three dimensional objects (e.g., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks), the sign area is measured at their maximum projection upon a vertical plane.

5. Multiple objects. When signs are composed of individual elements, the area of all sign elements, which together convey a single complete message, are considered a single sign.

6. Sign height. Sign height is measured as the vertical distance from the lowest elevation of the finished grade below or surrounding the base of the sign to the top of the highest element of the sign. In cases where substantial fill is proposed, finished grade shall be established by the director consistent with properties in the immediate vicinity, and shall not be artificially raised to gain additional sign height. If highest finished grade surrounding the sign is lower than the grade of an adjacent road, the height of the sign shall be measured from the top of curb elevation nearest to the sign.

C. Sign illumination. Sign illumination shall be designed to minimize light and glare on surrounding rights-of-way and properties, according to the following standards:

1. LED/neon lighting is encouraged for energy conservation purposes and to allow for creatively designed and attractive signs.

2. Sign illumination shall be limited to avoid light projection or reflection into residential properties.

3. Sign illuminations shall not blink, flash, flutter, or change light intensity, brightness. Illuminated window signs that are no greater than 2.5 square feet in area are exempt from this standard.

4. Neither the direct nor reflected light from primary light sources may create hazards for pedestrians or operators of motor vehicles.

5. Internal and external illumination is permitted provided that any external illumination is directed at the sign only and is pointed away from nearby properties.

6. The approval of any illuminated sign shall not be final until 30 days after installation, during which period the director may order the dimming of any illumination found to be excessively brilliant and no sign permit shall be valid until such order has been carried out to an extent satisfactory to the director. Illumination shall be considered excessive when it prevents normal perception of objects or buildings beyond or in the vicinity of the sign.

D. Sign design and materials.

1. Design and construction.

a. All signs shall comply with any applicable provisions of the uniform codes of the city.

b. The size of the structural members (e.g., columns, crossbeams, and braces) shall be proportional to the sign panel they are supporting. In general, fewer larger supporting members are preferable to many smaller supports.

c. Temporary signs shall be of sufficient weight and durability to withstand wind gusts, storms, etc., and shall be removed if weather conditions are such that the sign may be knocked over or blown away.

d. Signs shall not include attachments, including, but not limited to, balloons, pennant flags, ribbons, loudspeakers, etc.

2. Materials.

a. Sign materials (including framing and supports) shall be characteristic of or compatible with the type and scale of materials used on the parcel of the sign.

b. Reflective materials shall not be included on signs.

c. Sign materials shall be durable and capable of withstanding weathering over the life of the sign with reasonable maintenance.

E. Sign placement.

1. No sign located within the intersection visibility triangle may exceed 2.5 feet in height.

2. Signs shall not be placed so as to obstruct ingress and egress into any private or public property, including ADA access.

3. No sign shall be placed so as to obstruct pedestrians' or motorists' view of signs erected by a local, state, or federal governmental agency, including, but not limited to, traffic signs, public directional signs, parking signs, and street address signs.

4. No sign shall be placed so as to obstruct or hinder sidewalk or street access or visibility by pedestrians and vehicles.

5. All signs shall be placed securely and or built in accordance with building code requirements.

6. Temporary signs shall not be located in any landscaping area and shall not encroach into required parking areas, interfere with pedestrian traffic or ADA access, create traffic hazards, or cause a nuisance or hazard.

7. Signs within the coastal zone. Any sign placed within the Coastal Zone shall not:

(a) Obstruct views to or along the coast from publicly accessible places;

(b) Adversely impact public access to and use of the water;

(c) Adversely impact public recreation, access, or the visual resources of the coast.

8. Except as may be permitted by this Code, signs shall not be placed on property fences or walls.

F. Sign maintenance. All signs, both temporary and permanent, shall be continuously maintained in compliance with the following standards:

1. Each sign and supporting hardware shall be maintained in good repair so that it is able to function properly at all times. This includes the replacement of burned out or broken light bulbs and repair or replacement of faded, peeled, cracked, or otherwise damaged parts of a sign.

2. Signs that have structural or electrical components shall be maintained in a safe condition, in accordance with applicable technical codes.

3. Signs that have been physically damaged by weather or physical impact shall be reviewed by a competent engineer or qualified building inspector, contractor, or sign professional within 24 hours after the damage occurs.

4. Any repair to a sign shall be of materials and design of equal or better quality as the original sign.

5. When an existing sign is replaced, all brackets, poles, and other supports that are no longer required shall be removed.

6. Landscaping required by this chapter shall be maintained in a neat, clean and healthy condition, which includes pruning, mowing of lawns, weeding, removal of litter, fertilizing, replacement of plants when necessary, and the regular watering of all plantings.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.080), 11-16-2021)

All signs on nonresidential properties shall comply with the standards provided in this section and, as applicable, in section 17.75.080.

The aggregate sign area for permanent signs on nonresidential properties shall not exceed 0.5 square feet of sign area per linear foot of building frontage.

Table 17.75.090-1. Signs on Nonresidential Properties

A. Architectural signs. The following standards apply to permanent architectural signs on nonresidential properties (see figure 17.75.090.1):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.1

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One sign per decorative, fence, or retaining wall, not to exceed two such signs per entrance. The purpose of this limitation is to ensure that signs can be erected at all entrances to a development so as to be visible to vehicles arriving at the property from either direction.

3. Maximum area: Not applicable.

4. Maximum height: Signs shall not project above the wall on which they are placed.

5. Maximum width: Sign lettering shall not extend more than the shorter of 75 percent of the width of the wall or 20 feet.

6. Illumination: May be internally or externally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

7. Lettering height: Minimum six inches; maximum 12 inches.

8. Must not project more than eight inches from wall.

B. Awning or canopy signs. The following standards apply to permanent awning or canopy signs on nonresidential properties (see figure 17.75.090.2):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.2

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One sign per awning or canopy, and one per valance.

3. Maximum area: One square foot per one linear foot of awning or canopy width, and 75 percent maximum coverage per valance.

4. Maximum height: Sign is not to be displayed above the second story.

5. Maximum width: Sign copy on an awning or canopy shall not exceed 60 percent of awning or canopy width.

6. Illumination: May be internally or externally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

7. Vertical clearance: Minimum eight feet from bottom of the awning, including valance, or canopy to finished grade.

8. Setback and projection into public right-of-way: A minimum of two feet between the edge of the awning or canopy and outer curb face shall be maintained.

C. Banners. The following standards apply to temporary banner signs on nonresidential properties (see figure 17.75.090.3):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.3

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One per business frontage.

3. Maximum area: 30 square feet or ten percent of business frontage on which the banner is placed, whichever is greater.

4. Maximum height: Banners shall not be placed above the story of the business to which they apply and shall not project above the edge of the roof of the structure to which they are attached.

5. Illumination: Not allowed.

6. Maximum duration: Maximum 30 days per banner, collectively no more than 120 days per calendar year. A new business is allowed to have one banner for up to 90 consecutive days to allow time for a permanent sign to be installed; this initial time period shall not count towards the total allowable time the business may have banners.

7. Banners shall be affixed to a permanent structure (i.e., cannot be freestanding, such as mounted on temporary posts).

D. Construction signs (see table 17.75.100-1, Subdivision signs). The following standards apply to temporary construction signs on nonresidential properties (see figure 17.75.090.4):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.4

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One per entrance.

3. Maximum area: 20 square feet.

4. Maximum height: Six feet.

5. Illumination: External.

6. Setback: Minimum five feet from property line.

7. Construction signs are limited to 12 months.

E. Electronic readerboards. The following standards apply to permanent electronic readerboards on nonresidential properties (see figure 17.75.090.5):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.5

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One per entrance.

3. Maximum area: 40 square feet.

4. Maximum height: Six feet.

5. Setback: Minimum five feet from property line.

6. Illumination: May be internally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

7. Electronic readerboards are permitted only for institutional uses.

F. Flags. The following standards apply to flags on nonresidential properties (see figure 17.75.090.6):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.6

1. Permit not required.

2. Maximum number: One per business.

3. Maximum area: 24 square feet per flag.

4. Maximum total flag area per property: 30 square feet.

5. Maximum height: 12 feet unless increased to 16 feet with approval of a site plan review.

6. Vertical clearance: Minimum seven feet from the bottom of the flag when not extended to finished grade.

7. Setback: Minimum five feet from property line.

8. Illumination: May be externally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

9. A flag shall be securely attached to a flagpole.

G. Freestanding signs. The following standards apply to permanent freestanding signs (ground-mounted directory signs and monument signs) on all nonresidential properties (see figures 17.75.090.7 and 17.75.090.8):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.7

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.8

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One per entrance. Corner lots may have one additional freestanding sign on the corner.

3. Maximum sign area: 40 square feet.

4. Maximum structure height: Six feet.

5. Maximum width: Ten feet, including structure. Sign structures larger than four square feet or taller than three feet shall include a sign base with an aggregate width of at least 40 percent of the width of the sign face.

6. Setback: Minimum five feet from a property line; the setback may be increased to ensure safe motorist visibility.

7. Separation: Freestanding signs must be separated from other freestanding signs by at least 30 feet.

8. Illumination: Internally or externally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

H. Parking lot signs. The following standards apply to permanent parking lot signs on nonresidential properties (see figure 17.75.090.9):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.9

1. Permit not required.

2. Maximum number: One sign per parking spot.

3. Maximum area: Four square feet.

4. Maximum height: Three feet.

5. Illumination: May be internally or externally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

I. Pole signs. The following standards apply pole signs on nonresidential properties (see figure 17.75.090.10):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.10

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One per entrance.

3. Maximum area: 40 square feet.

4. Maximum height: Six feet.

5. Vertical clearance: None.

6. Illumination: May be internally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080.C.

7. Pole are permitted only for institutional or assembly uses.

J. Portable signs. The following standards apply to temporary portable signs on nonresidential properties (see figure 17.75.090.11):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.11

1. No permit required.

2. Maximum number: One per business.

3. Maximum area: Six square feet.

4. Maximum height: Three feet.

5. Illumination: Not allowed.

6. Setback: Minimum five feet from property line.

7. Signs shall be located maximum of ten feet from the primary business entrance.

8. Signs shall be removed at the close of business.

K. Projecting signs/suspended signs. The following standards apply to projecting and suspended signs on nonresidential properties (sometimes also referred to as "blade signs") (see figures 17.75.090.12 and 17.75.090.13):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.12

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.13

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One per business entrance.

3

Maximum area: 12 square feet.

4. Maximum height: 14 feet above finished grade.

5. Maximum width: Ten inches.

6. Vertical clearance: Minimum eight feet from bottom of the sign to finished grade below.

7. Projecting signs shall not extend more than five feet from a structure wall.

8. Projecting into public right-of-way: May encroach into the city right-of-way a maximum of three feet if approval is obtained from the city engineer and a city encroachment permit is issued. Approval shall only be withheld if the proposed sign cannot be installed safely. Signs may not encroach into state right-of-way unless authorized by the state.

9. Illumination: May be internally or externally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

10. Projecting signs shall be double-sided.

L. Yard signs. The following standards apply to temporary yard signs on nonresidential properties (see figures 17.75.090.14, 17.75.090.15 and 17.75.090.16):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.14

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.15

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.16

1. No permit required.

2. Maximum number: One per business/use frontage.

3. Maximum area: Five square feet.

4. Maximum height: Inverted L: Six feet from lowest grade; other yard signs: Three feet from lowest grade.

5. Illumination: Not allowed.

6. Setback: Minimum Five feet from property line.

7. Duration: Maximum 90 days per calendar year.

M. Wall signs. The following standards apply to permanent wall signs on nonresidential properties (see figures 17.75.090.17 and 17.75.090.18).

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.17

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.18

1. Permit required.

2. Includes directories mounted on building walls.

3. Maximum area: One square foot per lineal foot of building facade or business frontage.

4. Maximum height: Sign is not to be displayed above the second story, but no higher than 25 feet from grade.

5. Sign width: Maximum 75 percent width of building facade or business frontage.

6. Projection: Maximum ten inches from the wall to which it is attached.

7. Vertical clearance: Minimum ten feet from bottom of the sign to finished grade below; not applicable for directories.

8. Illumination: Internally or externally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

N. Window signs, permanent. The following standards apply to permanent window signs on nonresidential properties (see figure 17.75.090.19):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.090.19

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum area: 30 percent of window area (including temporary window signs). This is a per-window limitation, not total window area. Each window shall not be covered by window signs that are larger than 30 percent of the area of the window.

3. Illumination: May be internally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

O. Window signs, temporary. The following standards apply to temporary window signs on nonresidential properties:

1. Maximum area: 30 percent of window area. In no event shall more than 30 percent of the total window area be covered by signage, permanent or temporary.

2. Maximum height: Not applicable.

3. Illumination: Not allowed.

4. Duration. Temporary window signs may be displayed for no longer than 60 days per calendar year.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.090), 11-16-2021)

Signs on residential properties shall comply with the standards provided in this section and, as applicable, in section 17.75.080. Unless otherwise indicated, all signs require a sign permit or an approved sign program.

Table 17.75.100-1. Signs on Residential Properties

A. Architectural signs. The following standards apply to permanent architectural signs on residential properties (see figure 17.75.100.1):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.100.1

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One sign per decorative, fence, or retaining wall for developments of six units or more. The purpose of this limitation is to ensure that signs can be erected at all entrances to a development so as to be visible to vehicles arriving at the property.

3. Maximum area: Not applicable.

4. Maximum height: Signs shall not project above the wall on which they are placed.

5. Maximum width: Sign lettering shall not cover more than 75 percent of the width of the wall.

6. Illumination: May be internally or externally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

7. Lettering height: Minimum six inches; maximum 12 inches.

8. Must not project more than eight inches from wall.

B. Flags. The following standards apply to flags on residential properties (see figure 17.75.100.2):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.100.2

1. No permit required.

2. Maximum area: Individual flags shall not exceed 15 square feet; total flag area per property shall not exceed 30 square feet per property.

3. Maximum height: Maximum 12 feet from highest point of the pole to finished grade. Flagpole height may be extended to 16 feet with a site plan review.

4. Illumination: May be externally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

5. Setback: Five feet from property line; flag or flagpole shall not cross over the property line.

6. A flag shall be securely attached to a flagpole.

C. Freestanding signs. The following standards apply to permanent freestanding signs (ground-mounted directory signs and monument signs) on all residential properties (see figures 17.75.100.3 and 17.75.100.4):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.100.3

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.100.4

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One per entrance.

3. Maximum sign area: 40 square feet.

4. Maximum structure height: Six feet.

5. Maximum width: Six feet, including structure. Sign structures larger than four square feet or taller than three feet shall include a sign base with an aggregate width of at least 40 percent of the width of the sign face.

6. Setback: Minimum five feet from a property line; the setback may be increased to ensure safe motorist visibility.

7. Only permitted for subdivisions of 60 or more units.

8. Illumination: Internally or externally illuminated consistent with section 17.75.080(C).

D. Subdivision and construction signs, temporary. The following standards apply to temporary subdivision or construction signs on residential properties (see figure 17.75.100.5):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.100.5

1. Permit required.

2. Maximum number: One sign per 15 units.

3. Limited to housing developments of Six or more units.

4. Maximum structure height: Six feet.

5. Maximum area: 20 square feet per 15 units.

6. Illumination: External.

7. Setback: Five feet from property line.

8. Time limitation: 12 months (may be renewed).

E. Wall signs. The following standards apply to permanent wall signs (see figure 17.75.100.6):

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.100.6

1. No permit required.

2. Maximum number: One per property.

3. Maximum area: Four square feet.

4. Maximum height: Sign is not to be displayed above top of the structures.

5. Illumination: Limited, external, and away from other properties.

6. Projection: Maximum two inches from building surface.

F. Yard signs. The following standards apply to yard signs on residential properties (see figures 17.75.100.7, 17.75.100.8, and 17.75.100.9). A permit is not required.

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.100.7

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.100.8

[Figure]

Figure 17.75.100.9

1. No permit required.

2. Maximum number: Three per property.

3. Maximum area: Five square feet per sign.

4. Maximum height: Inverted L signs: Five feet measured from lowest grade. All other yard signs: Three feet measured from lowest grade.

5. Illumination: Not allowed.

6. Setback: No part of the sign shall encroach upon or hang over a public walkway or trail, but in no event shall any part of the sign structure be placed less than two feet from any vehicular travel lane, including overhang.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.100), 11-16-2021)

Signs in or on any public property are prohibited, except for temporary signs as follows:

A. Only A-frame signs are permitted.

B. Signs may be placed in parkways within the right-of-way only, which shall not include street medians. In the absence of parkways, signs may be placed on unimproved public property within the right-of-way, provided the signs do not obstruct passage of pedestrians or vehicles, and do not interfere with traffic visibility, and are a minimum of two feet from vehicular travel lanes. Signs placed on public property in violation of this subsection are subject to immediate removal.

C. Signs shall be no taller than 36 inches from grade.

D. Individual sign faces shall not be larger than five square feet.

E. No flags, balloons, pennants or any other attachments are permitted.

F. Signs must not block ingress or egress to any driveway or doorway and must not be placed so as to block or impair motorists' view.

G. Signs may be placed between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays. All signs shall be removed by 6:00 p.m. each day.

H. No signs that advertise the availability of any products, goods, or services may be placed in the public right-of-way without execution of a release of liability and indemnity agreement with the city, and proof of adequate insurance. This requirement shall be renewed annually.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.110), 11-16-2021)

A. Applicability. The provisions relating to murals shall not be interpreted to violate the federal Visual Artists Rights Act, codified as 17 USC 106A, or the California Art Preservation Act, codified as Civil Code § 987 et seq.

B. General requirements.

1. The general requirements for signs articulated in section 17.75.080 do not apply to murals.

2. The placement of a mural on commercial premises will not be applied to the sign area allotment for those premises.

3. The property owner is responsible for compliance with these provisions.

4. Murals may be painted on, tiled, or affixed to a building.

5. Murals may not depict obscene or defamatory content.

6. Murals may not contain commercial messages; this prohibition shall include, but not be limited to, advertising for goods or services, corporate logos, sponsorship logos, the name and/or symbol of a recognizable entity, copyright, or trademark information related to a business or commercial enterprise of any kind, as well as artistic depictions of the business, goods, or services being provided on the premises.

7. Murals must comply with the following construction and placement requirements:

a. The colors, construction materials and mediums to be used for the mural should be compatible with the architectural style of adjacent buildings and structures. This requirement is not intended to limit or dictate the content and/or message of the mural.

b. Murals must be permanently affixed to the structure or building and must be constructed of a permanent material or medium to be durable against graffiti, vandalism, fading, and weather. To this end, the material or medium to be used for construction of the mural shall be approved, prior to commencement of the mural, by the director as constituting such permanent and durable nature.

8. Murals must be maintained in a safe, neat, and orderly manner.

9. No mural may consist of, or contain, electrical or mechanical components, or changing images, provided that static illumination turned off and back on not more than once every 24 hours is permitted.

10. Murals may not contain fluorescent colors (i.e., colors that are strikingly bright, vivid, or glowing).

11. No part of a mural shall exceed the height of the structure on which it is placed.

12. No part of a mural shall extend more than six inches from the plane of the wall upon which it is placed.

13. No mural shall be placed so as to interfere with ingress or egress from any structure, or in any way obstruct doors, windows, doors, vents or any other similar building element that would threaten the public health and safety.

14. No mural shall be arranged and illuminated in a manner that will produce a light intensity of greater than three footcandles above ambient lighting, as measured at the property line of the nearest residentially zoned property. Illumination must be directed so that it only illuminates the mural and does not spill over into residential properties.

15. Murals on properties in specific plans and overlay districts shall, in addition to the requirements of this chapter, meet any specific design requirements for murals set forth in the ordinances establishing the specific plan or overlay district.

16. Murals that would result in a property becoming out of compliance with the provisions of this Code or any land use conditions of approval for the property on which a mural is to be located, are prohibited.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.120), 11-16-2021)

The following signs and/or sign structures, temporary or permanent, are prohibited:

A. Off-premises signs, except as may be provided in section 17.75.110 (Signs on Public Property). The on-premises/off-premises distinction only applies to commercial copy.

B. Signs on public property, including signs placed on street signs and utility poles, except as may be provided in section 17.75.110 (Signs on Public Property).

C. Signs or sign structures which by color, wording, or location resemble or conflict with traffic control signs or devices.

D. Signs which obstruct vehicular views of pedestrians or other vehicles or pedestrian views of vehicles, so as to affect the safety of the public.

E. Human signs.

F. Rotating, moving, scintillating, blinking or flashing illumination signs, except for randomly blinking Tivoli lights. Any sign which rotates, moves, scintillates, blinks or flashes, shall be deactivated within 60 days from the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived, without compensation.

G. Commercial advertising statuary or holograms.

H. Airborne signs.

I. Air dancers.

J. Billboards.

K. Mobile billboard advertising displays, and advertising signs on motor vehicles parked or left standing upon a public street.

L. Signs on hillsides. Signs of any kind, including those created by the arrangement of vegetation, rocks or other objects on a hillside, which are visible from a public right-of-way or a neighboring property.

M. Feather signs.

N. Roof signs.

O. Obscene messages or graphic representations.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.130), 11-16-2021)

A. Removal without compensation. The city may require removal, without compensation, of the following signs:

1. Any sign installed without first complying with all ordinances and regulations in effect at the time of its construction and erection or use.

2. Any sign found posted, or otherwise affixed upon any public property contrary to the provisions of this chapter. Such signs shall be immediately removed by the city.

B. Legal nonconforming signs.

1. Legal nonconforming signs shall be removed without compensation if the sign meets any of the following criteria:

a. Any sign, including its supporting structure, whose use has ceased, or has been abandoned by its owner, for a period of not less than 90 days. Costs incurred in removing an abandoned sign shall be charged to the property owner.

b. Any sign which has been more than 50 percent destroyed, and the destruction is other than facial copy replacement.

c. Any sign that has been moved from its original location on the property, or any sign that has been enlarged by more than five percent sign area or whose height has been increased by five percent without the required approvals.

d. Any temporary sign which is beyond the time limits set within this chapter for its category of temporary sign.

e. Any sign which, in the determination of the city's building official, is or may become a danger to the public or which is unsafe.

f. Any sign which constitutes a traffic hazard not created by relocation of streets or highways or by acts of the city or of the county.

2. Legal nonconforming signs must be maintained in accordance with section 17.75.080(F).

3. Reconstruction of a legal nonconforming sign (other than a freestanding monument sign or directory sign, or pole sign) where 30 percent or more of the sign structure is replaced must be brought into full compliance with this chapter.

4. The remodel and/or reconstruction of an existing nonconforming freestanding monument or directory sign, or pole sign, may be permitted provided that all of the following requirements are met:

a. The remodeled and/or reconstructed sign and sign structure and framework shall maintain the same type of sign structure and framework.

b. The sign structure and framework height shall not exceed the existing nonconforming sign's current height.

c. The remodeled and/or reconstructed sign structure and framework shall be located in the same general location as the existing nonconforming sign, as determined by the director.

d. The dimensions and square footage of a remodeled and/or reconstructed sign area shall not exceed that of the existing nonconforming sign area.

e. The lowest portion of the sign area shall not be below the low point of the existing nonconforming sign.

f. The remodeled and/or reconstructed sign and sign structure do not extend into the public right-of-way, from ground to sky.

g. The remodeled and/or reconstructed sign and sign structure do not create a public health and safety hazard with regards to sightlines for driveways, intersections, etc., as determined by the public works director.

h. If the existing lighting on a legal nonconforming sign and/or sign structure changes, that lighting shall comply with the illumination regulations set forth subsection 17.75.080(C).

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.140), 11-16-2021; Ord. No. 684, § 3, 7-16-2024)

Signs which may be removed without compensation shall be abated pursuant to the following process:

A. Director's order. The director shall issue a written order of abatement and give notice thereof.

B. Notice. Upon issuance of an order, the director must forthwith give written notice of the order by depositing a copy of the order with the United States Postal Service, addressed to the owner of the business and to the owner of the property to which the order relates. Alternatively, the director may have such person served personally with copies of the order.

1. The order must contain a description of the property affected, the names of the owners and/or persons in possession thereof, the basis for the order, and the time within which the usage must terminate.

2. The order is deemed final 30 days after the date of the notice unless an appeal is filed.

C. The sign that is the subject of the order must be removed within the time specified in the order, which may not exceed 60 days from the date the order is placed in the U.S. mail.

D. If the sign is not removed within the time provided for by the order, the director will arrange for its removal, and the owner or person responsible for the sign shall bear the cost of the sign's removal. The owner of the business and the owner of the property may be jointly and severally responsible for the cost of abatement.

E. Appeal.

1. The owner of property, or the owner of the business, to which an order relates may appeal the order, either in propria persona or through their authorized agent. The appeal must be in writing and must articulate the grounds upon which the order is being appealed. The appeal must be filed before the order becomes final and shall include an appeal fee as set by city council resolution.

2. The appeal shall be set for a de novo hearing before the commission and notice of the hearing shall be provided as specified below.

3. At the hearing, the commission shall hear evidence to determine whether the sign falls within a category of signs that can be removed without compensation in accordance with section 17.75.140 (Removal Without Compensation; Legal Nonconforming Signs), and any other matter the commission deems relevant for a just resolution. The commission may hear any and all matters that it deems relevant and is not be bound by rules of admissibility of evidence. The commission may hear relevant hearsay evidence but may not base its findings and decisions on hearsay evidence alone.

4. The commission must make a decision at the conclusion of the hearing, which shall be the effective date of the decision. The decision of the commission is deemed final ten days after the effective date unless a timely appeal is made to the city council.

5. Notice. Upon a decision by the commission either affirming or vacating an order, the secretary of the commission shall forthwith give written notice of the same. The notice shall contain a description of the property affected, the names of the owners of the property and/or the business affected, the basis for the decision reached, and a timeline for removal of the sign. The notice of such decision must be given in the same manner as set forth in subsection B of this section.

6. Mobile billboards. Pursuant to the authority set forth in Vehicle Code § 22651, a mobile billboard advertising display may be removed by any police officer when left parked or standing in violation of this chapter, if the registered owner of the vehicle was previously issued a warning citation for violation of this section, advising the registered owner that they may be subject to penalties upon a subsequent violation of this section, that may include removal of the vehicle. Alternatively, a mobile billboard advertising display may be removed without prior issuance of a warning citation, if the city has posted signs in accordance with Vehicle Code § 22507(a), giving notice that it is unlawful to park, stand or otherwise allow to remain upon any city street, any mobile billboard advertising display.

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.150), 11-16-2021)

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Building facade means any exterior elevation of a building.

Building frontage means the width of a building occupied by a single business tenant that fronts on a public way where customer access to the building is available. Width is measured as the widest point on an architectural elevation.

Changeable copy means sign copy designed to be used with removable graphics or letters which will allow changing of copy.

Corporate sign standards means standards for logo or sign design approved by a corporation.

Dilapidated means in a state of disrepair or ruin as a result of age or neglect.

Director means the director of the community development department of the city, including their designee.

Illegal sign means a sign that includes any of the following:

(a) A sign installed without complying with all regulations in effect at the time of its construction or use;

(b) A sign installed or maintained contrary to any applicable provision of this chapter.

(c) A sign which is a danger to the public or is structurally unsafe; or

(d) A sign which is a traffic hazard not created by relocation of streets or highways or by acts of the city.

Illuminated means signs or individual letters in which an artificial source of light is used to make the message readable and includes both internally and externally illuminated signs.

Externally illuminated means a sign whose light source is external to the sign and which casts its light onto the sign from a distance; or where the light source is behind an opaque sign element and causes it to be outlined by light reflected from the surface to which the sign is mounted.

Internally illuminated means a sign whose light source that is concealed or contained within the sign and becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface. Message center signs, digital displays, and signs incorporating neon lighting are not considered internally illuminated signs for the purposes of this chapter.

Internally illuminated sign means a sign with a light source located in the interior of the sign so the light shines through the face of the sign, or with a light source which is attached to the face of the sign and is perceived as a design element of the sign.

Intersection visibility triangle. See section 17.48.070.

Mural means an original work of visual art which is composed, created or produced firsthand, and that is painted directly upon, tiled, or affixed directly to an exterior wall of a structure with the permission of the property owner. A mural is distinguishable from graffiti based on the property owner's permission to paint or affix the mural onto the property, and compliance with the permit provisions of this chapter.

Nonconforming sign means any permanent or temporary sign, including its physical structure and supporting elements, which was lawfully erected and maintained in compliance with all applicable laws in effect at the time of original installation, but which does not now comply with the provisions of this chapter.

Obscene speech means a message or graphic representation that is obscene, as that term is defined in Penal Code § 311.

Off-premises sign means a sign identifying a business activity, property, services, or product at some location other than where the sign is displayed, including human signs and hand-held commercial signs.

On-premises sign means a sign identifying a business activity, property, services, or product provided at the location where the sign is located. Any sign displaying noncommercial copy shall be considered an on-premises sign.

Neon lighting means any sign illuminated by or utilizing in any way tubes filled with neon and/or related inert gases, or products that produce the same or similar effect as neon, such as flexible light-emitting diode (LED) neon-like tubing.

Permanent sign means a sign constructed of durable materials and intended to exist for the duration of time that the use or occupant is located on the premises.

Placed means erected, constructed, posted, painted, printed, tacked, glued, carved, or otherwise fastened, affixed or made visible in any manner.

Public area means an area that is accessible or visible to any member of the public.

Public right-of-way means a public street, plaza, courtyard, pedestrian corridor or walkway, city-owned parking lot, or alley.

Review authority means the individual or official city body identified by this chapter as having the responsibility and authority to review, and approve or deny, a permit application.

Sign means any physical form of visual communication, including its structure and component parts, which is exposed to exterior view to attract attention to or provide information about the subject matter or premises, through use of any combination of words, letters, figures, or symbols. (See below for sign types.)

Sign area means the surface space containing words, letters, figures or symbols, together with any frame or material forming an integral part of the display but excluding support structures, the face of the building, and incidental parts not drawing attention to the subject matter. Where freestanding or projecting signs have two sides or faces, but only one face is visible from any point, the surface area of only one side shall be applied to the total sign area permitted.

Sign copy means all portions of a sign displaying a message, including text and symbols, not including the supporting structure or base of a sign.

Sign height means the vertical distance from the uppermost point used in measuring the area of a sign to the normal grade immediately below the sign, including its base or the top of the nearest curb of the street on which the sign fronts, whichever measurement is the greatest.

Sign program means a coordinated design plan of one or more signs for an individual business, a multi-tenant business center, or other site that specifies the number, size, description, and location of all signs located or to be located on the parcel or business site.

Sign width means the measurement of a sign or base of a sign at its full extent from side to side, measured at the widest point.

Sign types.

Abandoned sign means any lawfully erected sign that, for a period of 90 days or more, no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, activity, product, service, or other use available on the premises where the sign is located.

A-frame sign means a freestanding portable sign ordinarily in the shape of an "A" or some variation thereof, which is readily moveable and not permanently attached to the ground or any structure; also, a sandwich board sign.

Airborne sign means a sign that is tethered by free-floating, such as a balloon sign, inflatable sign, and/or kite.

Air dancer means a tall, inflatable model, usually of a person or animal, that appears to move around due to the flow of air through it; also known as tube man, fly guy, sky dancer, or wacky waving inflatable arm flailing tube man.

Animated or moving sign means a sign that uses movement, lighting, or special materials to depict action or create a special effect to imitate movement.

Architectural sign means a sign placed on a retaining, fence/perimeter, or decorative wall, usually raceway mounted or with individual letters affixed to the structure. Architectural signs are not affixed to buildings.

Awning or canopy sign means any sign that is painted or applied to the face, valance, or side panel of a projecting structure consisting of a frame and a material covering, attached to and wholly supported by a building wall and installed over and partially in front of doors, windows, or other openings in a building.

Balloon or balloon sign means any inflated or inflatable object, with or without copy.

Banner means a temporary sign composed of cloth, canvas, plastic, fabric, or similar lightweight, non-rigid material that can be mounted to a structure with cord, rope, cable, or a similar method.

Barber pole means a rotating or stationary cylindrical pole of the traditional red, white, and blue spiral striped design, identifying the premises as a barber shop.

Billboard means an off-premises sign designed for changeable advertising copy, which is normally used for the advertisement of goods, products, or services.

Bus bench sign means a temporary message located on the backrest of a city bus bench.

Business information sign means a sign which provides business information, including, but not limited to, credit card acceptance, business hours, open/closed, or menus.

Changeable copy sign means a sign designed to allow the changing of copy through manual, mechanical, or electrical means including time and temperature.

Community information bulletin board means a board or similar posting area installed and maintained by the city for the posting of community information.

Construction sign. See Subdivision sign.

Directory sign means a pedestrian oriented sign used to provide a directory of tenant locations within a multi-tenant building.

Double-sided sign means a sign constructed to display its message on the outer surfaces of two parallel planes.

Electronic readerboard means a sign that contains a video screen, rows of light bulbs or LEDs or other type of electronic display, which when activated forms messages, symbols, or graphics.

Feather sign means a temporary sign constructed of cloth, canvas, plastic fabric, or similar lightweight, non-rigid material and supported by a single vertical pole mounted into the ground or on a portable structure.

Flag means a fabric sheet of square, rectangular, or triangular shape that is mounted on a pole, freestanding or attached to a structure or building. This sign type includes official flags of national, state, or local governments. This sign type does not include feather signs.

Flashing sign means a sign that contains an intermittent or sequential flashing light source.

Freestanding sign means a sign fixed in an upright position on the ground not attached to a structure other than a framework or device erected primarily to support the sign. The term "freestanding sign" includes monument signs and ground mounted directory signs. The term "freestanding sign" does not include pole signs.

H-frame sign means a freestanding portable sign ordinarily in the shape of a sideways "H" or some variation thereof, which is readily moveable and not permanently attached to the ground or any structure.

Human sign means any sign or costume held or worn by an individual for the purpose of advertising a business, goods, or services.

Inflatable sign means a sign that is an air-inflated object, which may be of various shapes, made of flexible fabric, resting on the ground or a structure and equipped with a portable blower motor that provides a constant flow of air into the device.

Mobile billboard advertising display as defined in Vehicle Code § 395.5, including any amendments or successor statutes thereto. Mobile billboards do not include:

(1) Advertising signs that are permanently affixed to the body of, an integral part of, or a fixture of a motor vehicle for permanent decoration, identification, or display and that do not extend beyond the overall length, width, or height of the vehicle.

(2) If the license plate frame is installed in compliance with Vehicle Code § 5201, paper advertisements issued by a dealer contained within that license plate frame or any advertisements on that license plate frame. The term "permanently affixed" means any of the following:

(i) Painted directly on the body of a motor vehicle.

(ii) Applied as a decal on the body of a motor vehicle.

(iii) Placed in a location on the body of a motor vehicle that was specifically designed by a vehicle manufacturer as defined in Vehicle Code § 672 and licensed pursuant to Vehicle Code § 11701, in compliance with both state and federal law or guidelines, for the express purpose of containing an advertising sign.

Monument sign means an independent, freestanding sign supported on the ground having a solid base.

Parking lot sign means a sign placed or displayed in parking lots to supply information to people using such lots, including information with respect to liability as well as entry, exit, and directional information, handicapped parking requirements, and other information to facilitate the safe movement of vehicles served by the parking area.

Pennant means a triangular or irregular piece of fabric or other material, whether or not containing a message of any kind, commonly attached by strings or strands, or supported on small poles, intended to flap in the wind.

People sign means a person, live or simulated, who is attired or decorated with insignia, images, costumes, masks, or other symbols that display commercial messages with the purpose of drawing attention to or advertising for an on-premises activity. Such person may or may not be holding a sign. Also known as human mascots, sign spinner, or walking signs.

Permanent vehicle sign means a sign that is painted directly upon the body of a motor vehicle, applied as a decal on the body of a motor vehicle, or placed in a location on the body of a motor vehicle that was specifically designed by a vehicle manufacturer for the express purpose of containing an advertising sign, such that they are an integral part of, or fixture of a motor vehicle for permanent decoration, identification, or display and that do not extend beyond the overall length, width, or height of the vehicle.

Pole sign means an elevated freestanding sign, typically supported by one or two poles or columns.

Portable sign means a sign that rests on the ground and is not designed to be permanently attached to a building or permanently anchored to the ground, including, but not limited to, A-frame and H-frame signs. Portable signs do not include pole or wooden post signs (see Yard sign).

Projecting sign means a sign projecting from and supported by a wall or building with the display surface of the sign perpendicular to the wall or building.

Public property means public property means and includes the public right-of-way, and any property that is owned or controlled by the city or by any other government agency or district, or private and public utilities. Public property includes city hall and the civic center, parks, utility poles, lines, and infrastructure, street trees, traffic control devices, and privately or publicly owned signs.

Roof sign means a sign constructed upon or over a roof or placed so that any portion of the sign extends above the edge of the roof.

Subdivision or construction sign means a temporary sign placed at a construction site that provides information regarding the project architect, owner, contractors, etc.

Suspended sign means a sign that is suspended from the underside of an eave, canopy, awning, arcade, or other covered walkway.

Temporary sign means a sign constructed of paper, cloth, or similar expendable material, which is intended for a definite and limited period of display, and which is not permanently affixed to a structure, sign area, or window.

Wall sign means a sign attached to or painted on the exterior wall of a building with the display surface of the sign approximately parallel to the building. The term "wall sign" includes directories mounted to the walls of a building.

Window sign means a temporary or permanent sign placed on or behind a window facing a public way. Window signs do not include common wall windows on the inside of a building not visible by the general public from any public right-of-way or any public area.

Yard sign means any temporary sign placed in the ground or attached to a supporting structure, posts, or poles, that is not attached to any building, not including banners.

Subdivision housing development means a housing development entitled pursuant to the California Subdivision Map Act.

Street frontage means the portion of the building or property which faces or abuts a street.

Support structure means the structural portion of a sign securing the sign to the ground, a building, or to another structure.

Window area means the area within the perimeter window frames and glass doors located on a business frontage or street frontage."

(Ord. No. 652, § 3(17.75.160), 11-16-2021)