Division 2 — Review Procedures for Previously Conforming Signs

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

The purpose of these procedures is to establish controls of signs that were legally constructed but became previously conforming when regulations were changed. The intent is to protect the public and the aesthetic character of the community and to identify rights with respect to previously conforming signs . (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

The following general rules apply to all previously conforming signs .

• (a) Except as specified in Section 127.0202(b), any sign that was constructed, erected, or affixed after April 5, 1973 in compliance with the Municipal Code, and which has subsequently become previously conforming shall maintain its previously conforming status until a proposal is made that requires a Sign Permit for the previously conforming sign .

• (b) Notwithstanding Section 127.0202(a), any sign that was constructed, erected, or affixed in compliance with the Municipal Code and which became previously conforming because of a rezone of the property on which the sign is located, shall be considered previously conforming only for 7 years from the date of the rezone. After the 7-year period has expired, any such sign is in violation of these regulations, is subject to abatement, and shall be modified to comply with the Land Development Code or shall be removed.

• (c) Signs in existence on April 5, 1973, that were constructed, erected, affixed, or maintained in compliance with all previous regulations but which do not comply with applicable zone regulations enacted after April 5, 1973, were required to be removed or brought into compliance with the Municipal Code by May 15, 1984 or May 1, 1988, if an extension of time was granted. Any such signs still remaining are in violation of the Land Development Code, are subject to abatement, and shall be modified to be in compliance with the Land Development Code or shall be removed.

Ch. Art. Div. 12 7 2 1

San Diego Municipal Code

Chapter 12: Land Development Reviews

(12-2001)

• (d) These previously conforming sign procedures do not apply to signs that are designated historical resources . A sign which is a designated historical resource is subject to Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 2 (Historical Resources Regulations).

• (e) Signs located on newly annexed properties shall be brought into compliance with the Land Development Code or shall be removed within 5 years after the effective date of annexation.

(Amended 6-12-2001 by O-18948 N.S.; effective 12-12-2001.)

Ch. Art. Div. 12 7 2 2

San Diego Municipal Code

Chapter 12: Land Development Reviews

(6-2000)