San Bernardino Municipal Code Ch. 9.04 Improper Use of City Insignia

It is unlawful for any officer or employee of the city to knowingly or willfully use, or cause the use of, a copy or replica of the official seal of the city, the original or a copy or replica of the letterhead on city stationary or any other official indicia of the city or local city public office for any private or personal purpose.

(Ord. MC-460, passed 5-15-1985; Ord. 3772, passed 11-9-1978)

For the purpose of this chapter, the following definition shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.

PRIVATE PURPOSE. Includes, but is not limited to, the support or endorsement of or opposition to any candidate for a public office or the support or endorsement of or opposition to any ballot measure, initiative, referendum or any other matter voted upon at a public election. Additionally, PRIVATE PURPOSE has that meaning ascribed to it by judicial decisions of courts of competent jurisdiction as such term is distinguished from the term PUBLIC PURPOSE.

(Ord. 3772, passed 11-9-1978)

The Mayor and City Council may, by written agreement, authorize the private use of the city seal or other city insignia when it is determined to be in the best interests of the city, and when it is determined that the public will not be misled thereby.

(Ord. MC-969, passed 6-4-1996)

Any person who violates any provision of this chapter is guilty of an infraction, which, upon conviction thereof, is punishable in accordance with the provisions of § 1.12.010.

(Ord. MC-460, passed 5-15-1985; Ord. 3772, passed 11-9-1978)

The penalties imposed by the provisions of this chapter shall be supplemental and in addition to any other penalties or remedies which may be imposed or provided by other laws or ordinances, such as disciplinary action, removal from public office, judicial order or judgment or other matter.

(Ord. 3772, passed 11-9-1978)