Chapter III — Parking and Loading

Contents:

D3-25 - Intent and Purpose of Chapter

D3-26- Applicability and Basic Requirements

D3-27 - General Parking Regulations

D3-28 - Number of Parking Spaces Required

D3-29 - Disabled Parking Requirements

D3-30 - Reduction of Parking Requirements

D3-31 - Parking Design and Development Standards

D3-32 - Parking Area Screening

D3-33 - Parking Area Lighting Requirements

D3-34 - Parking Lot Landscaping Standards

D3-35 - Garage and Carport Design and Location Requirements

D3-36 - Additional Standards for Parking Lots and Structures

D3-37 - Driveways and Site Access

D3-38 - Bicycle and Motorcycle Parking Requirements

D3-39 - Loading Space Requirements

D3-40 - Designation of Off-Site Parking and Loading Spaces D3-41 - Vehicles on Private Property

D3-25 - Intent and Purpose of Chapter

• A. Intent. The requirements of this Chapter are intended to ensure that sufficient off-street parking is provided for all uses and structures, and that parking facilities are attractive, properly designed, and located to be unobtrusive, generally to the rear of the site, while meeting the needs of the specific use or structure.

• B. Purpose. More specifically, the purposes of the off-street parking and loading provisions are to:

  1. Ensure that off-street parking and loading facilities are provided for new land uses and for major alterations and enlargements of existing uses in direct proportion to the need for the facilities created by each use;

  2. Establish parking standards for residential and commercial uses consistent with need and with the feasibility of providing parking on specific sites; and

  3. Ensure that off-street parking and loading facilities are designed in a manner that will ensure efficiency, protect the public safety, and, where appropriate, insulate surrounding land uses from adverse impacts.

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D3-26- Applicability and Basic Requirements

• A. Applicability. Each land use and structure, including a change or expansion of a land use or structure shall be provided continuously maintained off-street parking and loading areas in compliance with this Chapter. A land use shall not be commenced and a structure shall not be occupied until the improvements required by this Chapter are satisfactorily completed.

• B. When required.

  1. Off-street parking and loading facilities shall be provided in compliance with this Chapter at the time of initial occupancy of a site, construction of a structure, or major alteration or enlargement of a site or structure.

  2. For the purposes of these requirements, "major alteration or enlargement" shall mean a change of use or an addition that would increase the number of parking or loading spaces required by 10 percent or more of the total number required before the alteration or enlargement.

• C. Joint use. Off-street parking and loading facilities required by this Chapter for a use shall not be considered as providing parking or loading spaces for any other use, except in compliance with Section D3-30 (Reduction of Parking Requirements).

• D. Nonconforming parking or loading. No existing use of land or structure shall be deemed to be nonconforming solely because of the lack of off-street parking or loading facilities required by this Chapter; provided, the facilities being used for off-street parking and loading as of the date of adoption of this Chapter shall not be reduced in number to less than that required by this Chapter. See Section D3-28.D (Number of Parking Spaces Required – Nonconforming parking) regarding changes to structures with nonconforming parking.

• E. Location and ownership.

  1. Residential uses. Parking required to serve a residential use shall be on the same site as the use served.

  2. Nonresidential uses. Parking required to serve a nonresidential use may be on the same or a different site under the same or different ownership as the use served; provided, the parking shall be within the following maximum distances of the use served, measured from the nearest corner of the parking facility to the main public entrance of the use served via the shortest pedestrian route, as shown in Table 3-7 (Maximum Distances for Off-Site Parking for Nonresidential uses), below.

• F. Life of facility.

  1. Facilities for off-site parking shall be restricted to that use by a recorded agreement, deed, or lease for a minimum period of 10 years from the date a permit or approval requiring the parking is first issued.

  2. The Zoning Administrator may waive this restriction upon first finding that substitute parking facilities meeting the requirements of this Chapter are provided.

  3. No use shall be continued if the parking is removed unless substitute parking facilities are provided to the satisfaction of the Zoning Administrator.

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• G. Computation of spaces required rounding off of spaces. If, in the application of the requirements of this Chapter, a fractional number is obtained, one parking or loading space shall be required for a fraction of more than one-half, and no space shall be required for a fraction of one-half or less.

• H. Land banking. Upon a determination of the Zoning Administrator, a portion of the required parking improvements may be deferred if it is first found that all of the spaces are not needed immediately and that a Minor Use Permit could be granted in compliance with Section D6.28 (Use Permits and Minor Use Permits).

D3-27 - General Parking Regulations

• A. Timing of installation. A new or altered structure shall not be occupied, and a new land use not requiring a structure shall not be established, until all off-street parking and loading facilities required by this Chapter are in place and approved by the City.

• B. Parking and loading spaces to be permanent. Each parking and loading space shall be permanently available, marked, and maintained for parking or loading purposes for the use it is intended to serve. The approval of a Temporary Use Permit (Section D6.27) may allow the temporary use of a parking or loading space for other purposes.

• C. Parking and loading to be unrestricted. An owner, lessee, tenant, or other person having control of the operation of premises for which parking or loading spaces are required by this Chapter shall not prevent, prohibit, or restrict authorized persons from using the spaces without the prior approval of the Zoning Administrator.

D3-28 - Number of Parking Spaces Required

Each land use shall be provided the number of off-street parking spaces required by this Section. See Section D3-38 for off-street parking requirements for bicycles and motorcycles.

• A. Parking requirements by land use. Each land use shall provide the number of off-street parking spaces required by Table 3-8, except where more spaces are required through discretionary permit review, or where a reduction of parking is granted in compliance with Section D3-30 (Reduction of Parking Requirements).

  1. Use of site not identified. Where the land use that will occupy a proposed development is not identified at the time of permit application, the Zoning Administrator shall determine the probable use and the number of parking and loading spaces required. In order to make this determination, the Zoning Administrator may require the submittal of data from the applicant or collected at the applicant's expense.

  2. Floor area. Where Table 3-8 establishes a parking requirement based on floor area in square feet (e.g., 1 space for each 1,000 sf of floor area), the floor area shall be construed to mean gross interior floor area unless otherwise specified, and shall include all locations of shared halls, lobby areas, and rest rooms, but shall not include areas for vertical circulation, elevators, or stairs.

  3. Accessory uses. A single use with accessory components shall provide parking for primary use, and each component. For example, a hotel with a meeting room shall provide the parking spaces required by Table 3-8 for a hotel (e.g., the guest rooms), and for a meeting room.

  4. Spaces required for alteration or enlargement. The number of parking or loading spaces required for an alteration or enlargement of an existing use or structure, or for a change of occupancy, shall be in addition to the number of spaces existing before the alteration, enlargement, or change of occupancy unless the more spaces exist than the total required by this Chapter. In this case, the number of spaces in excess of the minimum shall be counted in determining the required number of spaces.

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5. Multi-tenant sites. A site with multiple tenants shall provide the aggregate number of parking spaces required for each separate use; except that where the site is developed as an integrated center with shared parking and no spaces reserved for a particular use, parking shall be provided as required by Table 3-8 for a retail complex. When a multi-tenant center includes one or more uses that will need more parking than retail uses (for example, a fitness center, office uses, or theater) additional parking shall be required for the non-retail use unless a parking reduction is approved in compliance with D3-30 (Reduction of Parking Requirements).

• B. Excessive parking. The City discourages a land use being provided more off-street parking spaces than required by this Chapter, to avoid the inefficient use of land, unnecessary pavement, and excessive storm water runoff from paved surfaces.

  1. The provision of off-street parking spaces in excess of the requirements in Table 3-8 is allowed and may be compact sized spaces measuring 8.5 feet by 18 feet, but only up to a maximum of 10 percent, and only when additional landscaping and pedestrian amenities are also provided to the satisfaction of the Zoning Administrator.

  2. The provision of off-street parking spaces in excess of the requirements in Table 3-8 is allowed and may be compact sized spaces measuring 8.5 feet by 18 feet, but only up to a maximum of 25 percent, with Use Permit approval in compliance with Section D6.28 (Use Permits and Minor Use Permits), and only when additional landscaping and pedestrian amenities are also provided to the satisfaction of the Zoning Administrator.

• C. Bench or bleacher seating. Where fixed seating (e.g., benches, bleachers, pews, or similar seating) is provided, a seat shall be defined as 18 inches of bench space for the purpose of calculating the number of required parking spaces as provided in Table 3-8.

• D. Nonconforming parking. A structure with nonconforming off-street parking may be physically changed or undergo a change in use subject to the following provisions.

  1. Residential uses. No additional parking spaces shall be required; provided, the change does not increase the floor area, nor increase the number of dwelling units, nor eliminate the only portion of the site that can be used for the required or existing parking or access.

  2. Nonresidential uses. The number of existing parking spaces shall be maintained on the site and additional parking shall be provided in compliance with this Chapter for any additional floor area. If the use of the structure is changed to one that requires more parking than the previous use, the difference between the parking spaces required for the previous use and the new use shall be provided.

  3. Waiver by Commission. The Commission may waive covered parking requirements when a nonconforming structure is proposed for rehabilitation if the Commission determines, in compliance with Section D6.28 (Use Permits and Minor Use Permits), that the existing structure location, lot size, or topography renders the requirement infeasible.

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(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-29 - Disabled Parking Requirements

• A. Accessibility requirements. Parking facilities shall be properly designed, constructed, and maintained to provide for access by the physically disabled from public rights-of-way, across intervening parking spaces, and into structures, including parking spaces specifically designed and located for the use of the disabled/handicapped. Standards for the facilities shall be based on the standards of the American Standards Association and/or other applicable guidelines.

ned, constructed, and maintained to provide for access by the physically disabled from public rights-of-way, across intervening parking spaces, and into structures, including parking spaces specifically designed and located for the use of the disabled/handicapped. Standards for the facilities shall be based on the standards of the American Standards Association and/or other applicable guidelines.

• B. Number and location of and access to spaces required. Parking spaces for the disabled shall be provided in compliance with the Uniform Building Code (UBC), the Federal Accessibility Guidelines, the California Code of Regulations (Title 24, Part 2, Chapter 2-71), and with the sign requirements of the California Vehicle Code, Section 22507.8., as applicable. Parking spaces required for the disabled shall count toward compliance with the number of off-street parking spaces required by Section D3-28 (Number of Parking Spaces Required).

D3-30 - Reduction of Parking Requirements

• A. Shared Collective parking. Where two or more adjacent nonresidential uses have distinct and differing peak parking usage periods, (e.g. a theater and a bank), a reduction in the required number

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of parking spaces may be allowed through Zoning Clearance, Minor Use Permit, or Use Permit approval.

1. Shared Collective parking requirements.

  - a. The Zoning Administrator may reduce the number of parking spaces required by Section D3-28 (Number of Parking Spaces Required) and D3-39 (Loading Space Requirements) by up to 5 percent with approval of a Zoning Clearance if the on-site parking does not exceed 100 spaces, and up to 10 percent with approval of a Zoning Clearance if the on-site parking has 100 parking spaces or greater. The Zoning Administrator may reduce the number of parking spaces required by Section D3-28 (Number of Parking Spaces Required) and D3-39 (Loading Space Requirements) by up to 25 percent with approval of a Minor Use Permit. Parking reductions greater than 25 percent may be allowed with approval of a Use Permit by the Planning Commission. 

  - b. An application for a Minor Use Permit or Use Permit for Shared Collective parking may be required to submit survey data substantiating a request for reduced parking requirements. 

  - c. A Minor Use Permit or Use Permit for Shared Collective parking shall describe the limits of any area subject to reduced parking requirements and the reduction applicable to each use. 

  - d. In retail centers, office uses and medical uses which require additional parking beyond that required for retail uses may be allowed; provided, their total combined gross square footage does not exceed 25 percent of the gross floor area of the retail center.

2. Findings. A Minor Use Permit or Use Permit may be approved to allow shared/collective parking serving more than one use or site and located in a zone in which parking for the uses served is an allowed use. A Minor Use Permit or Use Permit for shared/collective off-street parking may reduce the total number of spaces required by this Chapter only if the following findings are first made:

   • a. The spaces to be provided would be available as long as the uses requiring the spaces are in operation;

   • b. The peak hours of parking demand from all uses do not coincide so that peak demand is greater than the parking provided;

   • c. The adequacy of the quantity and efficiency of parking provided will equal or exceed the level that can be expected if collective parking is not provided; and

   • d. A written agreement between landowner(s) and the City, in a form satisfactory to the City Attorney, is approved by the Zoning Administrator. This agreement shall be in the form capable of and subject to being recorded to constitute a covenant running with the land and shall include:

     1. A guarantee that there will be no substantial alteration in the uses that will create a greater demand for parking;

     2. A guarantee among the landowner(s) for access to and use of the shared parking facilities;

     3. A provision that the City may require parking facilities in addition to those originally approved upon finding by the Zoning Administrator that adequate parking to serve the use(s) has not been provided; and

     4. A provision stating that the City, acting through the Zoning Administrator, may for due cause and upon notice and hearing, unilaterally amend, modify, or terminate the agreement at any time.

• B. Reduction of parking. The Zoning Administrator may reduce the number of parking spaces required by Sections D3-28 (Number of Parking Spaces Required) and D3-39 (Loading Space Requirements) by up to 15 percent through a Minor Exception approval (Section D6-24 Minor Exceptions), or between 15.1 percent to 25 percent through a Minor Use Permit approval based on the finding below, justifiable cause beyond simply the desire for less parking and based on the reasonable existing and

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future use of the property. Parking reductions greater than 25 percent may be allowed with approval of a Use Permit by the Planning Commission.

1. Findings. A Minor Exception, Minor Use Permit, or Use Permit may be approved to reduce the number of spaces to less than the number identified in this Chapter; provided, the following findings are first made:

   • a. The parking demand would be less than the requirements identified in Table 3-8 (Parking Requirements by Land Use ) and Table 3-14 (Loading Spaces Required), below; and

   • b. The probable long-term occupancy of the structure, based on its design, would not generate additional parking demand.

2. Consideration of survey data. In reaching a decision, the Zoning Administrator may consider survey data submitted by the applicant or collected at the applicant's request and expense that documents the need for fewer spaces (e.g., sales receipts, documentation of customer frequency, information on parking standards required for the proposed land use by other cities, etc.).

   3. Land banking. Upon a determination of the Zoning Administrator, Land banking may be required and a portion of the required parking may be deferred if it is first found that all of the spaces are not needed immediately and that a Minor Use Permit could be granted in compliance with Section D6.28 (Use Permits and Minor Use Permits). Land set aside for future parking areas shall be maintained in a use that can be easily converted to parking area when needed (i.e. Landscaping). Land banking parking areas shall not include permanent buildings, major utilities or required circulation areas that would prohibit the future installation of required parking,

• C. Reduced parking for restricted senior housing projects. The review authority may reduce the number of parking spaces required by Section D3-28 (Number of Parking Spaces Required) for senior housing projects, for persons aged 55 and over, based on quantitative information provided by the applicant that documents the need for fewer spaces for these types of residential development projects.

• D. Waiver of covered parking requirement for affordable housing units. The review authority may waive the requirement that parking be covered for affordable housing units in compliance with the City’s density bonus regulations.

• E. Parking in-lieu payments.

  1. Cash in-lieu payment. Within designated parking districts established by the City Council and shown on the zoning map, a parking requirement serving nonresidential uses on a site may be met by a cash in-lieu payment to the City before issuance of a Building Permit, or a Certificate of Occupancy, if no Building Permit is required.

  2. Fee to provide off-street parking. The fee shall be collected and spent in order to provide public off-street parking in the vicinity of the use.

  3. City may set limitations. In establishing the parking districts, the City may set limitations on the number of spaces or the maximum percentage of parking spaces required for which an in-lieu fee may be collected.

• F. Parking for large office complexes. The review authority may authorize the use of parking spaces measuring 8.5 feet by 18 feet for required parking if demonstration of participation within a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) program is provided.

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-31 - Parking Design and Development Standards

Required parking areas shall be designed, constructed, and properly maintained in compliance with this Section.

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• A. Location of parking. Off-street parking areas shall be located as follows:

1. Residential parking. Parking for a residential use shall be located on the same parcel as each residential unit served; except for mixed use projects developed in compliance with this Chapter.

   2. Nonresidential parking. Parking for a nonresidential use shall be located in compliance with Subsection D3-26.E. (Location and ownership), above.

   3. Location of off-street parking spaces.

      • a. Required off-street parking spaces may occupy any part of the property in a nonresidential zone (e.g., commercial, industrial, etc.), except for the minimum perimeter plant strip required in compliance with Section D3-19.C.6, and the traffic safety visibility area with Section D3-6.F.

      • b. In any residential zone, required off-street parking for the main unit shall not be provided within any setback area or the traffic safety visibility area with Section D3-6.F. However, parking may be allowed within that portion of any setback area used for driveway access to required parking areas.

• B. Access to parking. Access to parking shall be provided as follows for all parking areas other than for individual single-family residences. Site design shall minimize the amount of paved surfaces and driveway lengths while providing for safe and suitable access for vehicular circulation.

  1. Parking areas shall provide suitable maneuvering area so that vehicles exit to a street in a forward direction. Parking lots shall be designed to prevent access at any point other than at designated access drives. Single-family residences are exempt from this requirement.

  2. A nonresidential use that is designed to provide 20 or more parking spaces shall have access driveways that are not intersected by a parking aisle, parking space, or another access driveway for a minimum distance of 20 feet from the street right-of-way, to provide a stacking area for vehicles entering and exiting the parking area.

  3. A minimum unobstructed clearance height of 14 feet shall be maintained above nonstructured parking areas accessible to vehicles. Structured parking areas (i.e., garage parking) shall provide a minimum vertical clearance as required by Zoning Ordinance Section D3-36.H

• C. Access to adjacent sites. The City may require the design of a parking area to provide vehicle and pedestrian connections to parking areas on adjacent properties, to provide for convenience, safety, and efficient circulation. Where provided, a joint access agreement running with the land shall be recorded by the owners of the abutting properties, as approved by the Zoning Administrator, to guarantee the continued availability of the shared access between the properties.

• D. Parking stall dimensions.

  1. Minimum dimensions. Each off-street parking stall shall comply with the minimum dimension requirements in Table 3-9. Residential garages and carports shall comply with Subsections D3-35 B. (Minimum dimensions for residential enclosed garages) and D. (Minimum requirements for residential carports), below.

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2. Vehicle parking space requirements. See Figure 3-17

Figure 3-17 – Parking Facility

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Dimensions Diagram
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• a. Residential development. All required residential parking spaces shall be standard vehicle spaces provided and maintained in compliance with Table 3-10.

• b. Nonresidential developments. All required non-residential parking spaces shall be standard vehicle spaces provided and maintained in compliance with Table 3-10 unless authorized under Section D3-30F.

E. Minimum parking dimensions.

1. Parking lot circulation requirements.

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  - a. Within a parking lot, circulation shall ensure that a vehicle entering the parking lot need not enter the street to reach another aisle. 

  - b. No backing into public streets is allowed; vehicles shall not enter a public street in a backward motion. 

  - c. Single-family detached residences or a duplex residence, where each unit is served by an individual driveway, may allow vehicles to back out into a public or private street.

2. Drop-off areas required. Each child day care center, institutional, preschool, private educational, or public recreational land use located in a residential zone, or a commercial recreational facility shall provide a drop-off area that may be adjacent to a primary access or aisle.

   3. Access widths. Minimum access widths are 12 feet for one-way traffic and 25 feet for twoway traffic.

• F. Relation to aisles.

  1. Each parking space adjoining a column, wall, or other obstruction higher than six inches shall be increased by two feet on each side of the adjoining column, wall, or other obstruction; provided, the increase may be reduced by three inches for each foot of unobstructed distance from the edge of a required aisle, measured parallel to the depth of the parking space. See Figure 3-18.

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Figure 3-18 – Parking space clearanc
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2. At the end of a row of parking spaces, the perpendicular parking drive aisle providing access to the row of parking spaces shall extend two feet beyond the required width of the parking space.

3. A parking aisle width may be reduced as shown in Table 3-11 provided the adjacent parking spaces are increased in width as applicable.

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D3-32 - Parking Area Screening

• A. Parking area screening required. A parking area for five or more vehicles serving a nonresidential use shall be screened from an adjoining residential zone or a ground-floor residential use by a solid concrete, solid wood, or masonry wall six feet in height, and constructed to withstand a 15pound per square foot wind load, except that the height of a wall adjoining a required front setback in a residential zone shall be three feet.

arking area for five or more vehicles serving a nonresidential use shall be screened from an adjoining residential zone or a ground-floor residential use by a solid concrete, solid wood, or masonry wall six feet in height, and constructed to withstand a 15pound per square foot wind load, except that the height of a wall adjoining a required front setback in a residential zone shall be three feet.

• B. Carport or open parking area screening required. A carport or open parking area for five or more vehicles serving a residential use shall be screened from an adjoining parcel in a residential zone or a ground-floor residential use by a solid wall or fence six feet in height, except that the height of a wall or fence adjoining a required front setback in a residential zone shall be three feet.

D3-33 - Parking Area Lighting Requirements

• A. Outdoor lighting requirements. Outdoor parking area lighting shall not employ a light source higher than 18 feet, shall create no cone of direct illumination greater than 60 degrees from a light source higher than six feet, and shall not directly shine onto an adjacent street or property.

• B. Maximum average illumination. Maximum average illumination at ground level within the project boundary shall be in compliance with Table 3-12 Maximum Average Illumination, below.

D3-34 - Parking Lot Landscaping Standards

See Division D3, Chapter II (Landscape Design Standards).

D3-35 - Garage and Carport Design and Location Requirements

Garages and carports in residential zones shall comply with the requirements of this Section, whether they are accessory structures or part of a principal structure.

A. Residential garages.

1. Minimum interior dimensions for side-by-side garages. Residential enclosed side-by-side garages shall provide the following clear interior minimum dimensions.

   • a. One-car garage. A minimum of 10 feet wide by 22 feet deep (with 9-foot door opening).

   • b. Two-car garage. A minimum of 20 feet wide by 22 feet deep (with a 16-foot door opening or two 9-foot door openings).

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  - c. **Three-car garage.** A minimum of 30 feet wide by 22 feet deep (with 9-foot and 16-foot door openings, or multiple 9-foot door openings). 

  - d. **Four-car garage.** A minimum of 40 feet wide by 22 feet deep (with multiple 9-foot and/or 16foot door openings). 

2. Tandem Parking. Tandem parking shall be designed to meet the following minimum standards.

   • a. Two-car tandem dimension. A clear interior minimum dimension of 10 feet wide by 40 feet deep (with 9-foot door opening).

• b. A minimum of 200 cubic feet of storage area in or adjacent to garage.

  3. Interior door openings. No interior door shall open into a garage space unless the door will fully open without encroaching into the above specified areas.

• B. Residential carports.

  1. Carport screening required. Carports shall be designed and located to meet setbacks and so that parked vehicles are screened and not visible from a street.

  2. Minimum requirements for residential carports.

     • a. Each carport shall have minimum dimensions of 9 feet wide by 19 feet deep.

     • b. The width of the carport shall be measured from the inside face of support to inside face of opposite support.

     • c. The carport solid, waterproof roof shall cover the entire 19-foot length of the space.

• C. Setback requirements for garages and carports. Carports and garages shall comply with the setback requirements of the applicable zone.

• (Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-36 - Additional Standards for Parking Lots and Structures

Parking lots and structures shall have directional signs, drainage, fire equipment, lighting, litter collection containers, paving/surfacing, ramp grades, space markings, wheel stops, Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations (accessory), and queuing space for drive-in facilities or ticket dispensing booths or machines in compliance with this Section and which shall be subject to the review and approval of the Zoning Administrator.

• A. Sales, storage, etc. prohibited. The parking areas may not be used for the vehicle dismantling, leasing, renting, repair work, sales, storage, or outdoor open sales displays.

• B. Drainage. Surface water shall be discharged to natural or engineered off-site drainage facilities and may not drain off or across public or private pedestrian sidewalks, walkways, or areas not designed as drainage facilities. All drainage issues must comply with California Regional Water Quality Control Board Provision C.3.

• C. Surfacing requirements.

  1. For driveways serving only one single-family dwelling, the parking area shall be surfaced with a minimum of two inches of asphalt concrete over six inches of aggregate base or comparable pavement.

  2. For driveways serving more than one single-family dwelling or multi-family unit, the parking area shall be surfaced with a minimum of two inches of asphalt concrete over six inches of aggregate base or comparable concrete pavement.

  3. For heavy traffic (e.g. truck) and commercial driveways, the driveway shall be surfaced with a minimum of nine inches thick of class 6 concrete over twelve inches thick of Class 2 aggregate base.

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4. All driveways shall be graded and drained to dispose of all surface water accumulated in the area.

5. All parking spaces and maneuvering areas required by this Chapter, and as shown on the approved plans, shall be graded and well-drained in compliance with California Regional Water Quality Control Board Provision C.3, and permanently maintained in a dust-free manner.

• D. Double line striping. Each large vehicle parking space shall measure a minimum of nine feet from center to center, with double stripes two feet apart.

• E. Markings, striping, and identification. All parking-related markings, striping, and identification shall be clearly outlined with four-inch wide lines painted on the parking surface in compliance with this Subsection.

  1. Each parking space and parking facility shall be clearly identified by surface markings and shall be maintained in a manner so as to be readily visible and accessible at all times. The markings shall be arranged to provide for orderly and safe parking, loading/unloading, and storage of vehicles. Markings required to be maintained in a highly visible condition include directional arrows, lettering on signs and in disabled-designated areas, striping, and field color.

  2. One-way and two-way accesses into required parking facilities shall be identified by directional arrows. Any two-way access located at any angle other than 90 degrees to a street shall be marked with a traffic separation stripe the length of the access. This requirement does not apply to drive aisles.

  3. Where the exit may not be clearly recognizable, directional signs shall be provided to the satisfaction of the Zoning Administrator.

• F. Wheel stops/curbing.

  1. Continuous concrete curbing at least six inches high and six inches wide shall be provided for parking spaces located adjacent to fences, landscaped areas, property lines, structures, or walls.

  2. Individual wheel stops may be provided in lieu of curbing when the parking is adjacent to a landscaped area, and the drainage is directed to the landscaped area, subject to the review and approval of the Zoning Administrator.

  3. The curbing or individual wheel stops shall be placed two and one-half feet from the adjoining fence, landscaped area, property line, structure, or wall.

  4. When provided, individual wheel stops shall be placed to allow for two feet of vehicle overhang area within the dimension of the parking space.

• G. Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations (accessory). Parking lots for commercial, mixed-use, office, or multi-family developments that are available for use by the public are permitted to provide up to 5 percent of the total number of on-site parking spaces with EV Charging Stations. An approved Minor Use Permit is required to exceed 5 percent of the total number of on-site parking spaces with EV Charging Stations, unless the higher EV Charging Stations percentage is required by the State (California Green Building Standards) or local code.

New Construction : New construction of commercial properties exceeding 100 parking spaces or multifamily properties exceeding 100 units shall require the installation of a minimum of 1 EV charging station that can be shared by two parking spaces. For Multifamily developments, the location of the EV charging stations shall be located in common or guest parking areas. If a fee is charged for charging vehicles, the fee shall be based on market conditions for similar EV charging stations within the community.

ties exceeding 100 units shall require the installation of a minimum of 1 EV charging station that can be shared by two parking spaces. For Multifamily developments, the location of the EV charging stations shall be located in common or guest parking areas. If a fee is charged for charging vehicles, the fee shall be based on market conditions for similar EV charging stations within the community.

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• H. Vertical clearance. Vertical clearance for parking spaces shall be a minimum of seven feet, except that an entrance may be six and two-thirds feet and the front five feet of a parking space serving a residential use may be four and one-half feet.

D3-37 - Driveways and Site Access

Each driveway providing site access from a street, alley, or other public right-of-way shall be designed, constructed, and permanently maintained in compliance with this Section.

A. Number of driveways.

1. Single-family dwellings.

• a. Each parcel with a single-family dwelling shall:

  1. Be allowed only one driveway, except as allowed by Subparagraphs b and c., below; and

  2. Have a driveway with a minimum length of 20 feet measured from the back of the sidewalk, or the edge of the right-of-way where there is no sidewalk. The minimum width shall be 10 feet and the maximum driveway throat width shall be 12 feet for a one-car garage, 24 feet for a two-car side-by-side garage, and 36 feet for a three-car or greater side-by-side garage. For garages with a tandem car configuration, the maximum driveway throat width shall be based on the number of side-by-side vehicle spaces with unobstructed driveway access.

• b. A parcel within the RC and RE zones with a frontage of 200 feet or more may have two separate driveways, or one circular driveway, provided the resulting curb cuts are separated by a minimum distance of 100 feet, or a lesser distance approved by the City Engineer based on consideration of site topography and traffic safety.

• c. Total front yard paved area (e.g., driveway, parking areas) shall not exceed 50 percent of the required front setback area.

2. Multi-family and nonresidential projects.

  - a. Whenever a property has access to more than one street, access shall generally be limited to the lowest volume street, to minimize the traffic impacts of the project. 

  - b. The minimum width of driveways providing access to multi-family and nonresidential parking spaces shall be in compliance with Table 3-13 (Minimum Driveway Widths), below. The maximum driveway width shall be 30 feet, exclusive of the width of a median divider. 

• B. Location of driveways. Driveways shall meet the following standards in all zoning districts, except as approved by the City Engineer.

  1. Distance from street corner. No driveway shall be located less than 150 feet from the nearest street intersection, as measured from the centerline of the driveway to the centerline of the nearest travel lane of the intersecting street. A lesser distance may be approved by the City Engineer for parcels with street frontages of less than 150 feet.

2. Driveway spacing. Driveways shall be separated along the street frontage as follows:

   • a. Single-family residential development. Driveways shall be separated by at least six feet, unless a shared, single driveway is approved by the Zoning Administrator. The six-foot separation does not include the transition or wing sections on each side of the driveway; and

   • b. Multi-family and nonresidential development. Where two or more driveways serve the same or adjacent multi-family or nonresidential development, the driveways shall be separated by a minimum of 25 feet. Exceptions to this standard shall be subject to the review and approval of the City Engineer.

   • c. Parking access from street. Each residential development must access its own parking directly from the street or alley, except where single-family residential parcels share a driveway.

3. Spaces shall be accessible without re-entering a public right-of-way.

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• a. All spaces in a parking facility shall be accessible without re-entering a public right-of-way.

• b. The review authority may grant a Minor Use Permit in compliance with Section D6-28 (Use Permits and Minor Use Permits) to allow an exception to the prohibition identified in Subparagraph D3-37.B.3.a., above, but only when it is physically impossible to provide the required access.

• c. An alley may be used as maneuvering space for access to off-street parking.

4. Access drive required.

• a. Where an area used for off-street parking does not abut a public street, an access drive shall be provided in compliance with Table 3-13 (Minimum Driveway Widths), below, connecting the off-street parking area with a public street.

• b. The access drive shall be paved in the manner required for off-street parking lots.

• c. An access drive shall have a turnaround with an interior radius of 35 feet.

5. Approval of City Engineer required. Entrances and exits including the location, width, and length are subject to the review and approval of the City Engineer.

6. Median strip required.

• a. An entrance to a parking area accommodating more than 25 vehicles shall include a median strip.

• b. The design of the strip shall be subject to the review and approval by the traffic division, and the strip shall be located to eliminate possible cross-traffic within the parking area within 50 feet of the public right-of-way.

• c. The applicant may request Zoning Administrator approval of Minor Use Permit modifying this requirement based on the size of the parking area, the circulation plan, and sight and safety considerations of the specific site.

C. Driveway widths and clearances.

1. Driveway widths. Driveways shall have the minimum widths at the gutterline in compliance with Table 3-13 (Minimum Driveway Widths), below, plus a minimum of one foot additional clearance on each side of any vertical obstruction exceeding six inches in height.

2. Additional requirements by Zoning Administrator.

• a. The Zoning Administrator, in consultation with the City Engineer, may require driveways in excess of the above widths where unusual grade, site, or traffic conditions prevail.

• b. The Zoning Administrator may also require driveways to be constructed with full curb returns and handicapped ramps as opposed to simple curb depressions.

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  - c. Driveways which serve the same parking facility shall be located at least 25 feet apart, measured from the edge of the driveways. 

• D. Clearances from obstruction. The nearest edge of a driveway curb cut shall be at least three feet from the nearest property line, the centerline of a fire hydrant, light standard, traffic signal, utility pole, or other similar facility. Driveways shall have a minimum overhead clearance of 14 feet in height, except within a parking structure, where clearance may be reduced to 6 feet, 7 inches.

• E. Driveway visibility. The visibility of a driveway at its intersection with a street right-of-way shall not be blocked between a height of 30 inches and seven feet, unless approved by the Engineering Services Director, as required by Section D3-6.F (Height limit at street corners and driveways).

• F. Surfacing. All access driveways required by this Section, and as shown on the approved plans, shall be graded and properly drained, shall be permanently maintained in a dust-free manner, and shall be paved with at least two inches of asphalt, concrete, or paving units.

  1. The Zoning Administrator may authorize the use of other all-weather surfacing, where the Zoning Administrator determines, in consultation with the City Engineer, that the driveway is not needed for pedestrian access, and that the alternative surfacing will not impair accessibility for emergency vehicles. For the purposes of this Section, alternative all-weather surfacing includes turf block and/or other surfacing materials that provide for water infiltration into the ground while providing adequate support for vehicles.

  2. Driveways with a slope of 10 percent or greater shall be paved with asphalt or concrete in all cases.

• (Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-38 - Bicycle and Motorcycle Parking Requirements

• A. Bicycle Parking . Each multi-family project and nonresidential land use shall provide bicycle parking in compliance with this Section.

  1. Number of bicycle spaces required. Multi-family, retail commercial, and office uses shall provide bicycle parking spaces equal to a minimum of one bicycle space for every 10 motor vehicle spaces, with a minimum of two bicycle spaces.

  2. Bicycle parking space location. Bicycle spaces shall be conveniently located near the primary entrance of each structure they are intended to serve.

  3. Bicycle parking design and devices. Each bicycle parking space shall include a stationary parking device to adequately secure the bicycle, shall be a minimum of two feet in width and six feet in length, installed and maintained in compliance with City standards. Overhead clearance shall be a minimum of seven feet.

• B. Motorcycle parking. Each parking lot with 50 or more motor vehicle parking spaces shall provide motorcycle parking spaces conveniently located near the primary entrance of a structure, accessed by the same aisles that provide access to the motor vehicle parking spaces in the parking lot.

  1. Number of spaces required. A minimum of one motorcycle parking space shall be provided for each 50 motor vehicle spaces or fraction thereof.

  2. Space dimensions . A motorcycle parking space shall have minimum dimensions of four feet by seven feet.

D3-39 - Loading Space Requirements

• A. Number of loading spaces required. Nonresidential uses shall provide off-street loading spaces in compliance with Table 3-14 (Loading Spaces Required), below. Requirements for uses not

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listed shall be determined by the Zoning Administrator based upon the requirements for comparable uses.

• B. Standards for loading areas. Off-street loading areas shall comply with the Building Code specifications and requirements for off-street loading facilities, and shall comply with the following requirements. The Zoning Administrator may reduce these standards and the requirements of Subsection A., Table 3-14, and/or require an On-site Delivery Plan, where the Zoning Administrator first determines that the delivery, operating, and shipping characteristics of the use do not require the number or type of loading spaces required by this Section. An On-site Delivery Plan shall identify an on-site loading area (Minimum 12 feet wide, 35 feet long, and 14 feet vertical clearance) and limit the delivery hours to non-business hours of the on-site tenant(s) at the loading area.

  1. Location.

• a. Loading spaces shall be on the same site for which the loading spaces are required, or an adjoining parcel, and shall be located:

     1. Outside of all required setbacks and not facing a public street; 
  
     2. As near as possible to the primary structure and within the rear two-thirds of the parcel; 
  
     3. To ensure that loading, unloading, and vehicle maneuvers take place on-site; and 
  
     4. To avoid adverse impacts upon neighboring residential properties.
  

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• b. On a site adjoining an alley, a required loading space shall be accessible from the alley unless alternative access is approved by the Zoning Administrator.

• c. Common loading facilities.

  1. The off-street loading facilities required by this Section may be satisfied by the permanent allocation of the identified number of spaces for each use in a common truck loading facility; provided, the total number of spaces shall not be less than the sum of the individual requirements.

  2. As a requirement of approval, an attested copy of a contract between the parties concerned providing an agreement to joint use of the common truck loading facility shall be filed with the application for the permit or approval.

2. Not backing across street property lines. A required loading space shall be accessible without backing a truck across a street property line unless the Zoning Administrator determines that the provision of turn-around space is infeasible and approves the alternative access.

3. Shall not prevent access to parking spaces. An occupied loading space shall not prevent access to a required off-street parking space.

4. Dimensions. Loading spaces shall be a minimum of 12 feet in width, 35 feet in length with 14 feet of vertical clearance.

5. Lighting. Loading areas shall have lighting adequate for security and safety. Lighting shall be installed and maintained in compliance with Sections D3-33 (Parking Area Lighting) and D3-7 (Outdoor Lighting).

6. Screening and landscaping required.

   • a. Loading areas shall be screened from abutting properties and streets with dense landscaping and/or solid decorative masonry walls with a design and height subject to the review and approval of the Zoning Administrator.

   • b. Where a loading area abuts a street or another site, a landscaped strip of at least eight feet in width shall be planted for screening, and permanently maintained with plant materials subject to the review and approval of the Zoning Administrator; except that within 50 feet of a street intersection, the height of plant materials other than trees shall not exceed 36 inches.

   • c. The Zoning Administrator may require additional screening and/or landscaping.

7. Surfacing. All loading spaces, access driveways, and maneuvering areas required by this Chapter, and as shown on the approved plans, shall be graded and properly drained, shall be permanently maintained with dust-free surfacing, and shall be paved with two inches of asphaltic concrete, or other all-weather surfacing approved by the City Engineer.

8. Striping. All loading spaces shall be clearly striped and identified by the words "Loading Only" painted on the paved surface of the space in four-inch wide white block letters. These markings shall be maintained in a highly visible condition at all times.

9. Loading ramps. Plans for loading ramps and truck wells shall be accompanied by a profile drawing showing the ramp, ramp transitions, and overhead clearances, and shall require City Engineer and Planning review and approval.

10. Air Quality. Delivery vehicles shall be prohibited from idling their engine during loading and/or unloading activities. An electrical connection system may be provided as an alternative to allow for operation of refrigeration systems or other delivery vehicle functions during loading and/or unloading activities.

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11. Vehicle repair prohibited. Off-street loading facilities and areas required by this Section shall be maintained for the duration of the use requiring the area, and no repair work or servicing of vehicles shall be allowed in the loading areas.

D3-40 - Designation of Off-Site Parking and Loading Spaces

If off-site parking and/or loading facilities are approved by the City in compliance with Subsection D3-26 E. (Location and ownership) above, a recordable covenant, easement, or other agreement (hereafter referred to as the "agreement"), acceptable to the City Attorney, shall be recorded in the County Recorder’s Office to ensure the continued availability of the parking and/or loading facilities.

• A. Parties to agreement. The parties to the agreement shall include the owner of the off-site parking/ loading spaces and the owner of the site requiring the parking/loading.

• B. Contents. The agreement shall include:

  1. Covenants reflecting the City's conditions of approval for the use requiring the parking and/or loading, and the off-site parking and/or loading plan approved by the City;

  2. A requirement that the off-street parking and/or loading facilities shall not be used for any other purpose unless the restriction is removed by resolution of the Commission, in compliance with Subsection E., below.

• C. Certificate of Occupancy. No Certificate of Occupancy shall be issued until an attested copy of the recorded agreement has been filed with the Department.

• D. Loss of off-site spaces.

  1. Notification of City. The owner or operator of a business that uses approved off-site spaces to satisfy the parking/loading requirements of this Chapter shall immediately notify the Zoning Administrator of any change of ownership or use of the property where the spaces are located, or of the property for which the spaces are required, and of any termination or default of the agreement between the parties.

  2. Effect of termination of agreement. Upon notification that the agreement for the required off-site parking/loading spaces has terminated, the Zoning Administrator shall establish a reasonable time in which one of the following shall occur:

• a. Substitute parking/loading is provided that is acceptable to the Zoning Administrator; or

  - b. The size or capacity of the use is reduced in proportion to the parking/loading spaces lost. 
  

• E. Commission's action to remove restriction. Upon submission of satisfactory evidence that other off-street parking and/or loading spaces have been provided in compliance with the requirements of this Chapter, or that the use has ceased, or the structure has been removed or altered so as to no longer require the off-site parking and/or loading spaces, the Commission shall remove the restriction.

D3-41 - Vehicles on Private Property

• A. Parking limit in residential zones. No "heavy duty" commercial vehicle shall be parked for more than three hours on private property in a residential zone except:

  1. While loading or unloading goods or materials and the time required to complete the work exceeds the three-hour period; or

  2. When the vehicle is parked in connection with and in aid of providing a service to or on a property in the block in which the vehicle is parked and time in addition to the three-hour period is necessary to complete the service.

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• B. Parking limits in non-residential zones. A "heavy duty" commercial vehicle may only be parked on private property within a nonresidential zone when the vehicle is:

  1. Parked in an approved off-street parking space or an approved outdoor storage or activity area;

  2. Used in connection with and is owned or leased by an approved business located in a nonresidential zone; or

  3. The vehicle is loading or unloading goods in connection with a business and is parked for not more than 48 hours.

• C. Heavy duty defined. For the purposes of this Section a "heavy duty" commercial vehicle shall mean a single vehicle or combination of vehicles having more than two axles, or a single vehicle or combination of vehicles having a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of 12,000 pounds or more.

• D. Parking limits on landscape areas. Vehicles shall not be parked within landscape areas.

• E. Storage of trailers, RVs, and larger trucks prohibited. No trailer, recreational vehicle, as defined in Division D8, and/or truck not customarily used for personal use shall be stored or parked within a required front setback area; except in a nonresidential zone where limited display areas are authorized through Minor Use Permit approval (see Section D6-28). A recreational vehicle may be stored within an interior side or corner side yard setback if located behind a seven foot fence, thus screened to the maximum extent feasible from the view of the street and adjacent parcels. Temporary parking within the driveway or carport, for the purposes of loading or unloading before or after a trip, shall not exceed a period of 72 consecutive hours. Recreational vehicle owners who have their recreational vehicles parked on the San Ramon property where they reside as of August 25, 2006 may continue to park their recreational vehicles on a paved area within the front yard setback, provided that the following requirements are met:

  • a. Each owner shall register their vehicle with the City, including submittal of any applicable documentation and payment of any applicable processing fees.

  • b. The parking of each vehicle shall comply with applicable Municipal Code requirements including not overhanging the sidewalk or right-of-way, and this Zoning Ordinance, including required front yard landscaping and sight distance requirements.

  • c. Each vehicle shall be registered with the City in compliance with this Section within six months of August 25, 2006.

  • d. The registration with the City shall pertain to the registrant of the vehicle, not the vehicle itself.

  • e. The owner of the vehicle must be a San Ramon resident and must be a resident of the property or the owner of the property where the vehicle is stored.

  • f. Upon sale of the property, no further recreational vehicle storage will be allowed within the front yard setback area.

  • g. Upon termination of tenancy, no subsequent tenant will be able to store a recreational vehicle in the front yard setback.

Chapter IV – Signs Contents:

D3-42 - Purpose of Chapter D3-43 - Criteria and Guidelines D3-44 - Definitions

D3-45 - Exempt Signs - Signs Not Requiring a Sign Permit

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D3-46 - On and Off-Site Sign Regulations and Guidelines

D3-47 - Specific Sign Regulations

D3-48 - Miscellaneous Signs

D3-49 - Illumination of Signs

D3-50 - Prohibited Locations, Sign Types, and Messages

D3-51 - Maintenance, Abandonment, and Removal

D3-52 - Master Sign Program Required

D3-53 - Off-Site Directional Signs

D3-54 - Approvals Required

D3-55 - Required Findings

D3-56 - Sign Permit Required

D3-57 - Owner’s Consent Required

D3-58 - Sign Permit Applications

D3-59 - Building Permit Required

D3-60 - Required Inventory of Illegal or Abandoned Signs

D3-61 – Reserved

D3-62– Reserved D3-63 – Reserved

D3-42 - Purpose of Chapter

• A. Purpose of Chapter. The purpose of this Chapter is to provide minimum standards to promote economic viability and enhance the community's appearance by regulating the design, illumination, number, placement, and size of exterior signs and interior signs behind an exterior window(s) if the sign is intended to be visible from the exterior.

• B. Purpose of sign regulations. These sign regulations are established:

  1. To encourage the effective use of signs as a means of communication within the City;

  2. To enhance the community appearances by ensuring the highest standards of sign design and construction and minimizing unnecessary visual clutter;

  3. To encourage creativity in sign design while minimizing the overall number and size of signs to achieve the desired need for identification and communication;

  4. To promote and attract sources of economic development and growth by providing adequate business identity from both vehicular and pedestrian accessways;

  5. To protect pedestrian and traffic safety by minimizing confusing and distracting signs and providing clear identity and direction to major office centers, shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods;

  6. To minimize the possible adverse visual effects of signs on adjoining residential areas and/or public facilities; and

  7. To enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these sign regulations.

D3-43 - Criteria and Guidelines

The following criteria should be considered regarding the general location, placement, and design of individual signs:

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• A. Signs shall be restrained and non-garish in character. Signs shall be restrained in character and no larger than necessary for adequate identification.

• B. Signs shall be limited in quantity. Signs shall be limited in quantity to that which is necessary for adequate identification. Only one sign for each business or business frontage is encouraged; however, an additional sign may be necessary for adequate visibility given the business location within an office park or shopping center and/or the structure's distance from the adjoining public/private streets;

• C. Directory signs are encouraged within commercial centers. Directory signs are encouraged within office park and shopping centers to provide direction and identity. They shall not be visible from public streets and should not cause confusion or visual clutter;

• D. Signs shall not compete with each other. Signs shall not excessively compete with each other for the public's attention;

• E. Signs shall serve to identify a name. Signs shall serve to identify a business or establishment’s name. The primary activity or service being provided may also be included to properly identify the business type;

• F. Signs shall be in proportion and harmonious with the structures they serve. Signs shall be in proportion with the building scale and harmonious with the building design in terms of colors, materials, size, and textures;

• G. Sign illumination shall be at the lowest level. Sign illumination shall be at the lowest level consistent with adequate identification and readability, and all lighting sources shall be properly shielded and directed onto the sign(s) to avoid glare in compliance with Section D3-49 (Illumination of Signs), below;

• H. Signs shall be of the highest professional standards. Sign design shall be of the highest professional graphic standards and creativity related to colors, design, materials, size, and textures;

• I. Free-standing or monument signs are allowed as an entry statement. Free-standing or monument signs identifying structure owners or tenants as an entry statement to an office park or shopping center;

• J. Temporary signs shall not be larger than permanent signs. Temporary signs shall not be larger in sign face area and/or height than permanent identification signs of a similar type and purpose. The signs shall be incorporated into a monument sign and/or the building wall rather than constructed as a free-standing sign;

• K. Landscaping shall be protected and enhanced as a visual amenity. Landscaping surrounding freestanding signs shall be protected and enhanced as a visual amenity; and

• L. Window displays are encouraged. Window displays rather than window signs are encouraged whenever possible.

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-44 - Definitions

A-frame sign. A sign structure built in the shape of a capital letter A, usually designed to be moved easily (see Portable sign).

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Abandoned sign. A sign which no longer identifies or advertises a bona fide activity, business, lessor, owner, product, or service, and/or for which no legal owner can be found.

Advertising/promotional signs. Temporary banners when placed on a structure’s exterior.

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

Advertising/promotional window signs. Temporary signs which are installed only on the interior of a window to advertise an event, product, sale, and/or services provided.

Animated sign. (see also and note difference from "Changeable sign") A sign or display using kinetic or illusionary motion by electrical, manual, mechanical, natural, or other means. Animated signs include the following types:

1. Electrically energized Illuminated signs whose motion or visual impression of motion is caused by electrical means. Electrically energized animated signs are of two types:

   • a. Flashing signs. Signs with a repeating illumination from one or more sources and in which the intensity of illumination varies from zero (off) to 100 percent (on) during the programmed cycle.

   • b. Illusionary movement signs. Signs with the illusion of movement created by a repeating action in which the sign is turned on or off to give the impression of blinking, chasing, running, and/or twinkling light patterns.

2. Mechanically energized. Signs with a repeating physical movement activated by mechanical means.

3. Naturally energized. Wind-driven signs include banners, flags, metallic disks, pennants, spinners, streamers, or other similar devices designated to move in the wind.

Architectural Review Board. Referred to in this Chapter as the ARB. (See Section D6-22 [Architectural Review]).

Awning. A shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a structure constructed of nonrigid materials on a supporting framework.

Awning sign. A sign painted on, printed on, or attached flat against the surface of an awning (See Canopy sign, below).

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Back lit awning. (See Electric awning sign, below).

Banner sign. Any sign of lightweight fabric or similar material that is securely mounted to a pole or a building wall by a permanent frame at one or more edges. National flags, State or municipal flags, or the official flag of any institution or business shall not be considered banners (See Pennants, below).

Billboard. A sign or advertising structure used as an outdoor display which is securely affixed to the ground. (See Off-site sign, below).

Blade sign. A sign, identifying single tenant within a shopping center, which typically projects perpendicular from a building wall adjacent to the tenant entrance by a bracket no less than the required clearance above grade. (See Projecting Sign).

Broker’s open house sign. A temporary real estate sign which announces that a real estate professional is conducting an open house where interested individuals can visit and tour the premises.

Building. Any roofed structure supported by and enclosed by walls for the shelter or storage of persons and/or, property. Referred to in this Chapter as structure. See the Uniform Building Code for definition.

Building Frontage. The distance that any individual building or tenant wall or site extends along a public or private right-of-way on which it borders.

Canopy (structure). A rigid multi-sided structure covered with fabric, metal, or other material and supported at a building wall at one or more points, and by columns or posts embedded in the ground at other points. May be illuminated by means of internal or external sources. (See Electric awning sign and theater marquee, below).

Canopy (free-standing). A rigid multi-sided structure covered with fabric, metal, or other material and supported by columns or posts embedded in the ground. May be illuminated by means of internal or external sources. (See Canopy, structure, above).

Canopy sign. A sign affixed or applied to the exterior facing surface(s) of a structure or free-standing canopy. (See Awning sign, above).

Changeable sign. A sign whose informational content can be altered or changed by electric, electromechanical, electronic, or manual means. Changeable signs include the following types:

1. Electrically activated. Signs whose alphabetic, pictographic, or symbolic informational content can be altered or changed on a fixed display surface composed of electrically illuminated or mechanically driven changeable segments.

2. Manually activated. Signs whose alphabetic, pictographic, or symbolic informational content can be altered or changed by manual means.

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

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Effective on: 11/13/2025

City. Unless the context clearly discloses a contrary intent, the word "City" shall mean the City of San Ramon.

Clearance (of a sign). The smallest vertical distance between the grade of the adjacent highway, street, or street curb and the lowest point of any sign, including framework and embellishments, extending over that grade.

Commercial/retail center. Any nonresidential grouping of structures or uses occupied by three or more tenants which are connected by architectural treatment, shared access roads, and/or a commonality of use. Includes public/semi-public complexes. This use is typically neighborhood-serving in nature.

Commercial/retail area. A commercial/retail area either consisting of, or which has the potential for, 200,000 gross square feet or greater leasable tenant space via aggregation with adjoining commercial centers and/or properties which have a distinct geographical identity within the City. These areas can be either neighborhood serving and/or community serving in nature depending upon location, size, and tenants, and have frontages on one or more arterial street(s).

Construction sign. A temporary sign identifying an architect, contractor, developer, and/or material supplier participating in construction on the property on which the sign is located.

Copy. The graphic content of a sign surface in either permanent or removable letters, in alphabetic, pictographic, or symbolic form.

Directional/information sign. An on-site incidental sign giving directions, instructions, or facility information (e.g., entrance, exit, or parking signs).

Directory sign. A free-standing or wall sign intended to identify two or more tenants of a specific site, and located to direct pedestrian circulation within an office park and/or commercial/retail center or area. The signs are intended for pedestrian assistance and not for providing directional assistance to motorists, and should not, therefore, be visible from the public street.

Double-faced sign. A sign with two faces, essentially back-to-back, or a "V" shaped sign structure. (See Multiple-faced sign, below)

Electric awning sign. (Also known as back lit awning). An internally illuminated awning or canopy structure which is constructed of a flexible, reinforced, and translucent covering, with graphics or copy applied to the visible surface of the awning.

Facade. The entire building wall including the parapet.

Flashing sign. (See Animated sign, electrically energized, above)

Free-standing sign. A sign supported permanently upon the ground by braces or poles and not attached to any structure. (See also Monument sign, below)

Garage Sale signs. Any sign pertaining to a garage sale or a community garage sale.

Gasoline price signs. Signs which are intended to advertise gasoline and other motor fuel prices in compliance with the requirements of the State Business and Professions Code.

Government sign. Any sign erected and maintained by the City, County, State, or Federal government for traffic direction or for designation of or direction to any historical site, hospital, public service, or school, facility or property.

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Height (of a sign). The vertical distance measured from the highest point of the sign, excluding architectural embellishments (e.g., decorative cornices, trim, etc.), to the grade of the adjacent street or the surface grade beneath the sign, whichever is less. (See and compare Clearance, above)

Sign Height

Illegal sign. A sign(s) which has been installed without the required City approvals, and/or which has not received a nonconforming status.

Illuminated sign. A sign with an artificial light source incorporated internally or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign.

Incidental sign. A small decal, emblem, or sign informing the public of facilities, goods, or services available on the premises (e.g., credit card sign or a sign indicating hours of business).

Lot. A parcel of land legally defined on a subdivision map recorded with the Assessment Department or land registry office, or a parcel of land defined by a legal record or survey map.

Maintenance. For the purposes of this Chapter, the cleaning, painting, repair, or replacement of defective parts of a sign in a manner that does not alter the basic copy, design, or structure of the sign.

Mansard. A sloped roof or roof-like facade architecturally comparable to a building wall.

Maximum allowable sign face area. The total area allowed for a single face of a sign. (See Table 3-13 [On-site and Off-site Maximum Sign Standards], below).

Calculation of Sign Face Area

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Monument sign. A free-standing sign mounted directly to the ground on a solid base or pedestal or mounted to a wall which is not a building wall (e.g., soundwall) which is intended to identify the name and/or logo of a commercial office or shopping center or residential neighborhood. The signs are intended to provide identification to motorists and may therefore be visible from the public street.

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Multiple-faced sign. A sign containing three or more faces, not necessarily in back-to-back configuration. (See "V" sign, below)

Nonconforming sign.

1. A sign which was erected legally, but which does not comply with subsequently enacted sign restrictions and regulations related to height, location, quantity, setbacks, sign face area, etc.

2. A sign which does not conform to these sign requirements, but for which a special permit has been issued, or a Master Sign Program has authorized.

Occupancy. The portion of a structure or premises leased, owned, rented, or otherwise occupied for a given use.

Off-site sign. Any sign structure (e.g., billboard) identifying a facility, use, product, or service which is not located, sold, or manufactured on the same premise as the sign.

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

Off-site directional sign. A sign which provides directional assistance to a commercial/retail area, residential subdivision, or multi-family residential development of 100 units or more, and/or a business, premises, or site not having direct frontage upon a public/private street.

On-site sign. A sign which pertains to the use of the premises and/or property on which it is located.

Outdoor advertising display. Advertising of a retail item with a sign and accompanying display (e.g., advertisement on a product dispenser, etc.)

Painted wall sign. Any sign which is applied with paint or similar substance on the surface of a wall.

Parapet. The extension of a false front or wall above a roof eave.

Pennant. Any light-weight fabric, plastic, or other material whether or not containing a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, string, or wire, usually in series, designed to move in the wind. (See Banners, above)

Penthouse sign. Any sign which is affixed to a roof-mounted mechanical equipment storage area.

Political sign. A temporary sign used in connection with a local, State, or national election or referendum.

Portable sign. Any sign designed to be moved easily and not permanently affixed to the ground or to a structure (e.g., an A-frame sign).

Projecting sign. A sign, other than a flat wall sign, which is attached to and projects from a building wall or other structure not specifically designed to support the sign.

Public bus shelter sign . A sign located on a structure erected and maintained at official stops for a public transportation agency to protect their riders from the weather at transit stops.

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

Public information sign. Any sign intended primarily to promote items of general interest to the community (e.g., special community events) or traffic control, including warning signs, which are erected by a governmental agency.

Real estate sign. A temporary sign advertising the real estate upon which the sign is located as being for lease, rent, or sale. May also include "open house" real estate signs.

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Roofline. The top edge or ridge of a roof or building parapet, excluding chimneys, cupolas, or minor projections.

Roof sign. Any sign mounted to a roof above a roof eave, but not projecting over the roofline of a structure. (Compare with Mansard and Wall sign)

Rotating sign. (See Animated sign, mechanically energized, above.)

Sign. Any device, fixture, placard, or structure using graphics, symbols, and/or written copy and decorative flags and pennants, without graphics, symbols, or written copy, for the primary purpose of identifying, providing directions, or advertising any establishment, goods, products, or services.

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Projecting Sign
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Sign, area of.

1. Projecting and free-standing. The area of a free-standing or projecting sign shall have only one side of any double- or multi-faced sign counted in calculating its area. The area of the sign shall be measured as follows if the sign is composed of one or more individual cabinets (see graphic at Maximum allowable sign face area, above):

   • A rectilinear line of not more than eight sides shall be drawn around and enclosing the perimeter of each cabinet or module. The area shall then be summed and totaled to determine total area. The perimeter of measurable area shall not include embellishments (e.g., decorative roofing, framing, support structures, etc.); provided, there is no written advertising copy on the embellishments.

2. Wall or window. The entire sign area shall be within a single, continuous perimeter composed of any rectilinear line drawn around and enclosing the perimeter of the extreme limits of the advertising message.

Sign Permit. All signs regulated by this Chapter shall be approved by issuance of a Sign Permit in compliance with Section D3-56 (Sign Permit Required) before installation, unless specifically exempted from permit requirements.

Special events sign. A temporary sign or banner placed on the exterior of a structure which is intended to advertise seasonal events or special exhibitions which include agricultural sales, arts and crafts shows, Christmas tree sales, circus/carnivals, and civic/community events.

Subdivision identification sign. Any free-standing or wall sign identifying a residential subdivision or condominium complex, or multi-family residential development consisting of 100 or more units. (See also Off-site directional signs)

Temporary sign. A sign not constructed or intended for long-term use. Typically constructed of lightweight fabric or similar material (e.g., a banner).

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Theatre marquee. A permanent roof-like structure or canopy of rigid materials supported by and extending from the facade of a theatre building. (See Awning and Canopy, above)

Theatre marquee sign. Any sign attached to or supported by a theatre marquee structure.

Traffic safety visibility area. The area of a corner lot closest to the intersection which is kept free of visual impairment to allow full view of both pedestrian and vehicular traffic. No sign in excess of 30 inches in height nor support pole larger than 12 inches in diameter may be installed in this area, unless approved by the Engineering Services Director. Free-standing signs shall have at least seven feet clearance to grade when located within a required traffic safety visibility area. (See Section D3-6.E (Height limit at street corners.)

==> picture [469 x 134] intentionally omitted <==

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Traffic Safety Visibility Area
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V-sign. A sign consisting of two essentially equal faces, positioned at an angle extending less than 179 degrees. (See also Multiple-faced signs, above)

Wall sign. A sign attached to and essentially parallel with the wall of a structure with no copy on the sides or edges. This definition includes awning, cabinet, canopy, individual letter, and painted signs.

Window display. An arrangement of merchandise, pictures, products, and/or symbols or combination thereof inside a window or structure interior which is intended to be viewed from the exterior to communicate information about the business, services, or special advertising or events.

Window sign. A permanent sign inside a window which is intended to be viewed from the exterior to identify a business establishment, hours of operation, and/or services provided. Window signs may include painted-on or wrap-on letters, scenes, pictures, symbols, opaque materials, and/or window tint.

Window sign

==> picture [120 x 82] intentionally omitted <==

D3-45 - Exempt Signs - Signs Not Requiring a Sign Permit

The following signs are exempted from ARB, the Zoning Administrator, and/or Commission review unless otherwise noted, or unless authorized as part of a Master Sign Program in compliance with Section D3-52, below:

• A. Advertising/promotional window signs. Temporary advertising/promotional window signs or displays when placed to announce an event and provided it is installed for a period not exceeding 21

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consecutive calendar days within each calendar quarter. (See Subsection D3-47 M. [Temporary advertisement/promotional window signs])

• B. On-site Residential Advertising/Promotional signs. Signs within any residential zone which are intended to announce an event and provided it is installed for a period not exceeding 21 consecutive calendar days within each calendar quarter shall be:

  1. Limited to four square feet in total sign face area and five feet in maximum height measured from the top of the sign to the ground directly below it.

  2. Limited to one sign for each residential property.

  3. Located outside of the front setback area.

  4. Not associated with a Home Occupation or Cottage Food Operation.

Signage shall also be in compliance with Prohibited Locations, Sign Types, and Messages (Section D350).

• C. Blade signs. Blade signs and other similar non illuminated wall signs not over two square feet in area, located in close proximity to each tenant space when authorized by a Master Sign Program (Section D3-52) or when identifying tenants within a site having five or less nonresidential tenants. The signs shall be limited to one sign for each tenant.

• D. California State Lottery signs. Signs for the California State Lottery, approved by the Lottery Commission for display by Lottery Game Retailers.

• E. Commemorative signs. Names of structures, dates of erection, and commemorative tablets, when carved into concrete, stone, or similar material or made of aluminum, bronze, or other permanent type material and made an integral part of the structure. The signs shall not exceed four square feet in sign area and shall not be illuminated.

• F. Commercial and industrial real estate signs. Temporary on-site commercial and industrial real estate signs when authorized by a Master Sign Program (See Section D3-52), on a site with five or less nonresidential tenants, and when limited to one sign for each site or structure. (See Section D3-47 I. [Temporary on-site commercial real estate signs]). These signs shall comply with the street and traffic safety visibility area and height requirements.

• G. Construction signs. Temporary construction signs. (See Section D3-47 K. [Temporary construction signs])

• H. Directional/informational signs. Directional/informational onsite parking and other directional signs, not exceeding one double faced sign for each entrance, or two square feet in sign area, with letters or symbols not exceeding five inches in height. The signs shall not exceed a height of 42 inches, not be located within 10 feet of another freestanding sign, and shall be setback from the driveway entrance at least five feet.

• I. Garage sale sign. One on-site sign and a maximum of four off-site signs on private properties are allowed on the days of the event from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The maximum size of a sign shall be 6 square feet, maximum 3 feet in height or width.

• J. Gasoline price signs. Gasoline and other motor fuel price signs in compliance with the State Business and Professions Code.

• K. Government flags. United States, State of California, or City government flags which shall be mounted or flown (e.g., maximum pole height) no higher than the maximum structure height and shall be setback a distance equivalent to the front or street side setback for the subject zone. While exempt from a sign permit, the flag pole or other support shall be subject to the issuance of a Building Permit.

• L. Holiday lights and devices. Holiday lights and similar devices not advertising a product or sale erected no sooner than 45 calendar days before the holiday and removed within 14 calendar days following the holiday.

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• M. Incidental signs with no letters exceeding three inches. Incidental and window signs having no letters or symbols exceeding three inches in height; provided, the maximum window coverage does not exceed 20 percent of the overall window area, while maintaining a clear interior view for the lower third of the window area for police and private security surveillance. These may be illuminated or non-illuminated and indicate that a tenant is either "open" or "closed" for business, service offered, hours of operation, and/or the address. (See Section D3-47 B. [Window signs]). Does not include signs or displays using kinetic or illusionary motion by electrical, manual, mechanical, natural, or other means. (See Section D3-44 [Animated Signs]).

• N. Interior signs. Signs within the interior of a structure which are not readily visible from the exterior.

• O. Mass produced product signs. Signs manufactured as a standard, integral part of a mass produced product accessory to a commercial, public, or semipublic use, including automated teller machines (ATMs), gasoline pumps, telephone booths, and vending machines.

• P. Political signs. Temporary political signs when a letter of responsibility has been filed with the City Clerk. (See Section D3-47 J. [Temporary political signs])

• Q. Public information signs. Public information and governmental signs erected by a public agency.

• R. Residential real estate signs. Temporary on-site residential real estate signs when limited to one sign for each residential site or property. (See Section D3-47 F. [Temporary on-site residential real estate signs])

• S. Scoreboard changeable copy signs. Electronically activated or fixed message changeable copy signs for scoreboards on public school properties.

• T. Street address numbers. Street address numbers conforming to TITLE C, Division 2, (Building Security) of the Municipal Code.

• (Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-46 - On and Off-Site Sign Regulations and Guidelines

• A. Applicability. Table 3-15 (On- and Off-Site Maximum Sign Standards) identifies the maximum allowable sign face area, development standards, and guidelines applying to signs visible from a public or private right of way for each zone. This Table is a summary of the regulations only and the letters in parentheses in the last column reference specific regulations within Section D3-47 following the table or located elsewhere in this Zoning Ordinance.

• B. Exceptions. A Master Sign Program may supersede the regulations of this Chapter in compliance with Section D3-52; and a Master Off-Site Directional Sign Program may supersede the regulations of this Chapter in compliance with Section D3-53.

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(Ord. No. 496, § 2, 01/28/2020; Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-47 - Specific Sign Regulations

All signs identified in this Section shall comply with the applicable sign standards and regulations identified below. All non-exempt signs shall be reviewed in compliance Section D3-54 (Approvals required) below.

A. Wall signs shall be:

1. Located below a parapet or roofline.

2. Not project greater than 12 inches from the face of the structure, except for awning signs.

3. Allowed on spires, towers, or other architectural features as identified in this Chapter when the sign is an integral part of the building design and does not project above a roofline. Any sign(s) higher than the maximum structure height limit allowed in the subject zone, shall be subject to approval by the Commission (or as part of a Master Sign Program). (See Section D3-52, below)

4. Limited to a maximum of 0.75 square feet for each one linear foot of building frontage (or each building frontage if there is more than one frontage) up to a maximum of 75 square feet of total sign face area. Limited to only one wall sign for each wall. Wall signs may exceed the maximum allowed sign face area when the Planning Commission grants an exception in compliance with the following:

   • a. The proposed exception conforms as closely as practical to the regulations governing sign area limitations;

   • b. The proposed exception is consistent with the purposes and policies of these sign regulations;

   • c. The strict adherence of the sign regulations does not allow adequate identification of the subject site or structure because of the site's location, or because the proposed business is obscured from view by adjacent structures or vegetation;

   • d. The sign is in proportion to the wall/window area; and

   • e. Wall signs shall be limited to one sign for each structure street frontage. One additional wall sign may be allowed if the primary customer entrance is not on the wall facing the street.

B. Window signs shall be:

1. Designed to ensure that the total area of all window signs, including exempt signs, shall be limited to 20 percent of a tenant’s total window area for each wall.

2. Fabricated to the highest standards of sign design and construction.

3. Positioned in a fashion so that they do not obscure the vision of the indoor activities by law enforcement personnel.

C. Roof signs shall be:

1. Located below a parapet or roofline. Theater marquee signs and/or signs on a sloped or pitched roof (e.g., a gabled roof) may project above a roof eave, but shall be below a roofline. (See also Theatre or cinema signs, Subsection D3-47 T. (Theatre or cinema signs) below)

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2. Subject to the same sign area regulations identified for wall signs in Section D3-47 A. (Wall signs) above.

D. Free-standing or monument signs shall be:

1. Limited in height and total sign face area allowed in the subject zone (See Table 3-15 [On- and OffSite Maximum Sign Standards], above), and shall not be closer than 30 feet to another freestanding and/or monument sign unless authorized by the Planning Commission.

2. Limited to one sign for each site frontage. Corner parcels, when not developed as part of a contiguous commercial, office, and /or residential development, shall be limited to one freestanding sign. Additional signs may be authorized by the Zoning Administrator when necessary for proper identification.

3. The total number of tenant names shall be determined in compliance with a Master Sign Program for any site having six or more nonresidential occupants/tenants. (See Section D3-52, below)

4. The directory style signs shall not be visible from a public street or right of way.

5. Designed to ensure that the sign(s) are not located over, or encroach into, a public right-of-way.

6. Placed within a required landscaped area. The Zoning Administrator may require supplemental landscaping to enhance the sign and streetscape appearance.

7. In compliance with the requirements of Sections D3-37 (Driveways and Site Access).

8. Designed with creativity in mind, subject to the approval of the ARB and Zoning Administrator.

9. Subject to a Master Sign Program if required by this Chapter. (See Section D3-52, below)

E. Off-site signs shall be:

1. Off-site signs, as that term is defined in Section D3-44 (Definitions), above, advertising an establishment, event, or product shall not be allowed except as specified by this Chapter. (See Subsections G. [Temporary off-site residential real estate signs] and H. [Temporary off-site subdivision directional signs], below)

2. The Planning Commission may authorize an off-site identification sign for a business, premise, or property not having direct frontage or visibility upon a public/private street. (See Section D3-54 B. [Planning Commission review and action], below)

• F. Temporary on-site residential real estate signs shall be: Signs within any residential zone which are intended to identify a residential "open house" or residential property for lease, rent, or sale shall be:

  1. Limited to four square feet in total sign face area and five feet in maximum height measured from the top of the sign to the ground directly below it.

  2. Limited to one sign for each residential property, unless additional signs are authorized by the Zoning Administrator as necessary for proper identification.

3. Installed on the residential property and not located within any public street right-of-way. The Zoning Administrator may authorize the placement of the sign within the public street right-ofway only when there is no alternative location with ready appearance from the public street rightof-way and then only when an Encroachment Permit is authorized by the City Engineer.

   4. Displayed no longer than seven calendar days after the property is no longer offered for lease, rent, or sale. "Lease/rent" shall mean occupancy by a tenant and "sale" shall mean close of escrow.

   5. Subject to a Master Sign Program if required by this Chapter. (See Section D3-52, below)

• G. Temporary off-site residential real estate signs. Portable off-site residential real estate signs within any residential zone which is intended to provide directional assistance for a broker's "open house" shall be:

  1. "A-frame" in design. "Stick signs" are strictly prohibited.

  2. Limited to 48 inches in height and six square feet in total sign face area.

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3. Allowed only on the weekends and removed no later than Sunday at sunset. However, the signs may be used on Thursdays and Fridays between the hours of 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for broker's open house only, unless otherwise specified by the Zoning Administrator.

4. Placed behind the sidewalk, and shall not encroach within the public rights-of-way (e.g., bicycle paths, medians, or sidewalks). Signs shall not be placed on fences, utility poles, or walls.

5. Allowed only for residential real estate developments that are located within the City of San Ramon.

6. Limited to one sign for each direction at any intersection for each real estate company regardless of the number of listings located in that direction.

7. Limited to a maximum combined total of eight temporary off-site residential real estate signs and temporary off-site subdivision directional signs at major arterial/collector street intersections; provided, motorist visibility is not obstructed. Signs on secondary or residential street intersections shall be limited to a maximum combined total of four temporary off-site residential real estate signs and temporary off-site subdivision directional signs; provided, motorist visibility is not obstructed.

8. Designed to include directional arrows on each sign.

• H. Temporary off-site subdivision directional signs. Portable off-site residential subdivision signs which provide directional assistance only shall (See also Off-site directional signs - Section D3-53, below) be:

  1. "A-frame" in design. "Stick signs" are strictly prohibited.

  2. Limited to 48 inches in height and six square feet in total sign face area.

  3. Allowed only on weekends between Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and removed no later than Sunday at sunset.

  4. Placed behind the sidewalk, and shall not encroach within the public rights-of-way (e.g., bicycle paths, medians, or sidewalks). Signs shall not be placed on fences, utility poles, or walls.

5. Allowed only for developments that are located within the City of San Ramon or the City's Sphere of Influence.

   6. Removed when the remaining, unsold units are turned over to brokers for disposal, or within a 90day period following the approval of a Master Off-Site Directional Program in compliance with Section D3-53, whichever first occurs.

   7. Not be visible from a freeway or along the freeway's on-/off-ramps.

   8. Limited to:

      • a. One sign for each direction, at any intersection for each subdivision;

      • b. Eight signs for each subdivision, placed not less than 1,000 feet apart; and

      • c. A maximum combined total of eight temporary off-site residential real estate signs and temporary off-site subdivision directional signs at major arterial/collector street intersections; provided, motorist visibility is not obstructed. Signs on secondary or residential street intersections shall be limited to a maximum combined total of four temporary off-site residential real estate signs and temporary off-site subdivision directional signs; provided, motorist visibility is not obstructed.

6. Designed to include directional arrows.

• I. Temporary on-site commercial real estate signs. Temporary on-site commercial real estate signs which are intended to identify a commercial, office, or industrial property for lease, rent, or sale shall be: (See Subsection D3-45 E. [Commercial and industrial real estate signs], above)

  1. A maximum of 12 square feet in total sign face area and five feet in maximum height measured from the top of the sign to the ground directly below it. When situated within 30 feet of a permanent monument sign, the maximum sign face area of the temporary sign shall be reduced to 50 percent of the adjoining monument sign face area.

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2. Limited to one sign for each site or structure, unless additional signs are authorized by the ARB and Zoning Administrator when necessary for proper identification.

3. Located on the site it is identifying for lease, rent, or sale and not located within any public street right-of-way.

4. Not be visible from a freeway or along the freeway's on-/off-ramps.

5. The Sign Permit shall clearly identify the specific suite, site, or structure for which the permit is issued to ensure compliance with Subparagraph 6 below.

6. Removed no later than 30 days from the issuance of building occupancy unless authorized by an approved Master Sign Program. (See Section D3-52, below)

7. Subject to a Master Sign Program if required by this Chapter before building occupancy. (See Section D3-52, below)

J. Temporary political signs shall:

1. Pertain to a ballot measure, candidate, or issue to be voted upon within 90 calendar days of the initial date of posting.

2. Be no larger than 32 square feet in total sign face area and have a maximum height of eight feet measured from the top of the sign to the ground directly below it.

3. Not be placed within the public right-of-way or visible from a freeway or along the freeway's on/off-ramps.

4. Be removed within seven calendar days following the election.

5. Comply with the requirement that the party responsible for the sign's removal shall, before the sign's installation, file a statement of responsibility with the City Clerk certifying that the temporary political sign will be removed within the required time limits identified in this Subsection.

K. Temporary construction signs shall be:

1. No larger than 32 square feet in total sign face area and maximum 10 feet in height measured from the top of the sign to the ground directly below it.

2. Limited to one sign for each project.

3. Located on the same site as the construction work in progress.

4. Removed upon final certificate of building occupancy or as required by the Zoning Administrator.

• L. Temporary advertising/promotional signs. Advertising/promotional signs which are intended to advertise an event, product, sale and/or service shall be:

  1. A banner, or other similar device without advertising copy other than the tenant and/or center name, and the announcement of the aforementioned allowed events and shall be placed on the structure exterior and secured to or suspended from a building wall or flag pole. The signs shall not be affixed/attached to a fence, roof, screen wall, or tree. Tethered balloons and inflatable signs are prohibited.

  2. Limited to one sign for each tenant and a maximum of two commercial center-sponsored signs for each commercial center or area.

  3. Limited to a 21 consecutive day installation period for each event and a maximum of once each calendar quarter.

  4. Professionally designed and fabricated from durable and weatherproof materials.

  5. Limited to 12 feet in height measured from the top of the sign to the ground directly below it.

  6. Located to ensure that the sign does not block required pedestrian and/or vehicle accessways, create safety hazards, and/or obstruct signs identifying adjoining establishments.

  7. Subject to a Master Sign Program if required by this Chapter. (See Section D3-52, below)

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• M. Temporary advertisement/promotional window signs. Signs which are installed on a temporary basis only on the interior of a window to advertise an event, product, sale, and/or services shall be:

  1. Limited to 21 consecutive days within each calendar quarter, except they are allowed without the 21-day time restriction between the day before Thanksgiving through January 2nd of the following year.

  2. Subject to the window coverage requirements of this Chapter. (See Subsection D3-47 B. [Window signs], above)

  3. Located to ensure that the sign does not block or impede the line-of-sight or surveillance as required by Section D3-47 B. [Window signs], above.

  4. Subject to a Master Sign Program if required by this Chapter. (See Section D3-52, below)

• N. Portable signs. Portable signs which are intended to provide directional assistance to a tenant space within a commercial zone shall be:

  1. Located within proximity of the tenant's primary entrance, limited to one sign for each tenant, and shall not be visible from a public street.

2. The maximum sign area shall not exceed 48 inches high by 30 inches wide.

   3. Subject to a Master Sign Program if required by this Chapter. (See Section D3-52, below)

   4. Prohibited within any location which would block and/or impede vehicular/pedestrian travelways or walkways, obstruct signs identifying adjoining establishments, and/or placed within any required setback or landscaped areas.

• O. Temporary special event signs. Temporary special event signs, subject to the approval of the Department, for temporary uses which are intended to advertise seasonal events or special exhibitions (e.g., arts and crafts fairs circus/carnivals, etc.), as defined in Municipal Code DIVISION B1, Chapter IV (Special Events) may be authorized by a Special Events Permit when approved by the Parks and Community Services Director. Seasonal events related to the sale of agricultural products require a Special Events Permit issued by the Parks and Community Services Director. Sidewalk sales and similar events related to permanent businesses require a Temporary Use Permit.

• P. Temporary business identification signs. Temporary business identification signs, which are intended to provide identification of a business before installation/placement of a permanent identification sign, shall be:

  1. Generally conforming to the temporary advertising/promotional sign locational regulations identified in Section D3-47 M. [Temporary advertising/promotional signs], above and as modified below.

  2. Allowed for a maximum period of 90 consecutive days with the prior approval of the Zoning Administrator.

  3. Removed and replaced with a permanent business identification sign approved by the ARB and/or the Zoning Administrator.

  4. Temporary banner signs may be used in compliance with Subsection L. (Temporary advertising/promotional signs), above.

Q. Office structure identification sign(s) shall be:

1. Subject to the same sign area regulations identified for wall signs in Subsection D3-47 A. [Wall signs], above.

2. Limited to one wall-mounted sign or logo which is intended to identify a structure complex name. One sign shall be allowed for each structure elevation that fronts a public street or freeway.

3. Located below the roofline or parapet at a height and scale architecturally in harmony with the structure unless an increased height is authorized by the Planning Commission. (See Section D3-47 C. [Roof signs], above)

4. Constructed of individual channel letters or internally-illuminated letters and/or logo.

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5. Subject to a Master Sign Program if required by this Chapter. (See Section D3-52 below).

• R. Freeway-oriented building-mounted signs. Freeway-oriented building-mounted signs shall be:

  1. Prohibited on windows and/or as free-standing signs. Only allowed as “building-mounted” freeway-oriented signs; no modification or waiver of this prohibition may be allowed.

  2. Allowed for a commercial or office center consisting of six or more tenants, or a single-tenant structure having a gross floor area of 50,000 square feet or more.

3. Limited to building walls having direct physical freeway frontage.

   4. Limited to one wall sign for each tenant on a building wall physically located adjacent to and visible from the freeway.

   5. Subject to the same sign area regulations identified for wall signs in Subsection D3-47 A. [Wall signs], above.

   6. Constructed of individually illuminated channel letters rather than can-type signs.

   7. Subject to a Master Sign Program if required by this Chapter. (See Section D3-52, below)

• S. Freeway-oriented business park identification signs. Freeway-oriented business park identification signs (i.e., free-standing signs, etc.) directly adjacent to Interstate 680 consisting of 100 acres or more. Such signs shall be subject to a Master Sign Program and/or MSP Amendment with Planning Commission approval. (See Section D3-52, below). In addition to approval of a Master Sign Program, all signs visible from a State highway or freeway shall be subject to the regulations contained in the California Outdoor Advertising Act, Chapter 2, Division 3, of the Business and Professions Code.

• T. Theatre or cinema signs. Theatre or cinema signs used to advertise on-site theatrical productions, movies, or other performances, prominently displayed at the entrance of a theater or cinema and shall be subject to the Zoning Administrator’s approval if the signs deviate from the regulations of this Chapter (e.g., brighter lights, increased sign area and height, etc.) and only if the modifications are compatible with the structure design and character of the area. (See Subsection D3-47 C. [Roof signs], above)

U. Public transit shelter signs shall be:

1. Prohibited within any residential zone and limited to the commercial, industrial, office, mixed-use, and public zones.

2. Authorized only on shelter structures approved by the Council as part of a Citywide master plan.

3. Subject to the sign area, design, and locational criteria established by the Citywide master plan.

4. Installed only by the vendor(s) authorized by the Citywide master plan.

5. Removed immediately when required by the Zoning Administrator based on non-compliance with this Chapter or when in response to general public complaint(s).

6. Subject to the required findings established by the adopted Council policy for advertisement/display standards.

(Ord. No. 496, § 2, 01/28/2020; Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-48 - Miscellaneous Signs

• A. Noncommercial murals and displays. Noncommercial murals, large graphic designs, and statuary are permissible with approval by the Zoning Administrator; provided, the displays will not pose a hazard to public health, safety, or welfare.

• B. Zoning Administrator approval required. The painting or decorating of a structure in a manner designed to convey a message to viewers shall be considered a sign for the purposes of this Zoning Ordinance and shall require Zoning Administrator review and approval.

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

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Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-49 - Illumination of Signs

• A. No exposed tubes or bulbs. Signs shall not have exposed fluorescent tubes or incandescent bulbs.

• B. Shielding of light fixtures required. All fixtures shall be shielded and properly focused to minimize glare and excessive nighttime illumination.

• C. Limitation on illumination. Signs immediately contiguous to and adjoining with any residential zone shall not be illuminated between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. unless they identify an establishment open for business during those hours, and further provided the lighting is subdued to minimize potential impacts (e.g., glare).

D3-50 - Prohibited Locations, Sign Types, and Messages

The following locations and types of signs or advertising devices are prohibited within the City:

• A. Banners, non-government flags, pennants, and similar advertising devices. Banners, nongovernment flags, pennants, and similar advertising devices with advertising copy mounted to an exterior building wall or suspended from a building wall, flag pole, or similar structure, except when authorized as part of a Master Sign Program (See Section D3-52) or allowed as a temporary sign. (See Sections D3-47 L. [Temporary advertising/promotional signs], M. [Temporary advertisement/ promotional window signs], O. [Temporary special event signs], and P. [Temporary business identification signs])

• B. Flashing, moving, or rotating signs. Flashing, moving, or rotating signs (see Animated Sign), except for barber poles and changeable copy for theater and cinema marquee signs and scoreboards and reader boards on public property (see Changeable Sign).

• C. Freeway exposed signs. Free-standing signs not within a business park, window signs, and "for sale/rent/lease" signs of any type which are designed, oriented, or placed for freeway exposure and which are visible from the freeway or a freeway on- and off-ramp.

• D. Home occupations. Signs identifying a home occupation.

• E. Off-site directional signs. Off-site signs or off-site directional signs, except signs allowed for a site or business not fronting on a public or private street (See Subsection D3-47 E. [Off-site signs]), as a temporary sign (See Subsections D3-47 G. [Temporary off-site residential real estate signs] and H. [Temporary off-site subdivision directional signs]) or allowed by a Master Off-Site Directional Sign Program (See Section D3-53).

• F. Off-site signs. Off-site signs or billboards are prohibited anywhere within the City.

• G. Outdoor advertising signs. Outdoor advertising signs, except as authorized as a temporary advertising/ promotional sign or window sign, portable sign, or as allowed as a temporary special event sign. (See Subsections D3-47 L. [Temporary advertising/promotional signs], M. [Temporary advertisement/ promotional window signs], N. [Portable signs], and O. [Temporary special event signs])

• H. Penthouse signs. Penthouse signs and signs projecting above a roofline except as allowed as a roof sign. (See Subsections D3-47 C. [Roof signs] and S. [Theatre or cinema signs])

• I. References to obscene matter. Signs containing pictures, statements, words, or other representations which are in reference to obscene matter which violate the California Penal Code, Section 311 et. seq.

• J. Searchlights. The use of outdoor searchlights when used for advertising or “attention-getting” purposes, except when authorized with a Temporary Use Permit (See Section D6-27).

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• K. Signs on public transit shelters. Signs on public transit shelters when located within a residential zone.

• L. Signs on vehicles. Signs which are either painted-on, placed on, and/or attached to a vehicle parked on a public or private street for a period exceeding 72 consecutive hours which is clearly intended to provide advertisement and/or directional assistance.

• M. Signs within the public right-of-way. Signs located within the public right-of-way excluding governmental signs and public information signs, except when authorized by an Encroachment Permit and allowed as a temporary sign. (See Subsections D3-47 F. [Temporary on-site residential real estate signs], G. [Temporary off-site residential real estate signs], and H. [Temporary off-site subdivision directional signs])

• N. Similar to traffic directional signs or devices. Signs with colors, design, lighting, or text that could be confused with a public traffic directional sign or control device.

• O. Tethered balloons or inflatable signs. Tethered balloons or inflatable signs.

• P. Use of improper materials. Exterior signs made of materials which are impermanent and will not stand exposure to weather.

• Q. Window Signs with Opaque Materials/Window Tint. Window signs with opaque materials, and/or window tint that are positioned in a fashion so that they obscure the vision of the indoor activities by law enforcement personnel. Also prohibited are merchandise displays and similar signage that functional obscure the minimum visibility indoor activities by law enforcement personnel. The standard is not to prohibit all window tinting and display areas, but rather protect the minimum visibility need to promote security.

(Ord. No. 496, § 2, 01/28/2020; Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-51 - Maintenance, Abandonment, and Removal

• A. Maintenance required. All signs, including banners, flags, pennants, and awnings with signs, shall be properly maintained in good repair and shall be cleaned, painted, or replaced as necessary to present a neat appearance.

• B. Removal following discontinuance. An on site sign advertising an activity, business, product, or service shall be removed within 30 calendar days following the actual discontinuance of the activity, business, or service.

D3-52 - Master Sign Program Required

• A. Purpose. Regulations for Master Sign Programs are to:

1. Identify criteria for the construction, design, and placement of signs (including temporary banners and non-government flags) which are specific to a commercial or multi-family residential development and which would be compatible with the site planning and structure design of the entire area.

   2. Ensure the reasonable compatibility of signs within the development regarding sign color, design theme, location, materials, number, and size.

   3. Provide a coordinated approach to providing adequate directional signs and/or identification within the development to ensure pedestrian and vehicle safety and to promote the economic viability of the development.

B. Applicability/application processing.

1. Applicability. The following projects shall require a Master Sign Program or Master Sign Program Amendment. A Master Sign Program shall be reviewed by the ARB with a recommendation to the

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Zoning Administrator. A Master Sign Program Amendment shall be reviewed by the Zoning Administrator unless otherwise identified in Section D3-47 Specific Sign Regulations.

  - a. **Residential development.** Any site occupied by a multi-family residential development when more than one permanent sign (e.g., directory and directional signs) is proposed on the site. 

  - b. **Nonresidential development.** 

     1. Any site having six or more nonresidential occupants/tenants. 

     2. Projects involving the construction or renovation of more than 25,000 square feet of gross floor structure area within a nonresidential zone. 

2. Concurrent application processing required. A Master Sign Program shall be filed with and processed concurrently with the application for any new development identified in Subparagraph B. 1, above.

3. Effect of Master Sign Program. Approval of a Master Sign Program shall supersede the regulations of this Chapter. Any aspect of the proposed signs not addressed by the Master Sign Program shall be in compliance with this Chapter.

• C. Required application materials. Applications for approval of a Master Sign Program shall include the following minimum required information and materials.

  1. It is recommended that the Master Sign Program be prepared by a design professional in consultation with a retail/marketing consultant or analyst who will provide recommendations regarding the specific sign locations, number, and sizes based on the major vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic patterns serving the development. A letter or statement from the design professional and retail/marketing consultant should accompany the application materials verifying their review of the program.

  2. A letter of application explaining how the proposal will modify any of the regulations or standards of this Chapter, including explanations for how these would contribute to a superior site design, structure appearance, and sign program than would otherwise result from the strict compliance with Section D3-47 (Specific Sign Regulations), above.

3. A detailed and accurate site plan, drawn to scale, delineating the entire site showing the location of all structures, on-site vehicular access, signs, banners and flags, adjoining streets, and/or landscaping to be removed, to remain, and/or proposed for installation.

   4. Drawings and/or sketches, drawn to scale and dimensioned, showing the proposed sign dimensions and location on the building wall(s); the exterior surface details, and materials of the building walls.

   5. Drawings and/or sketches, drawn to scale and dimensioned, showing the proposed sign face dimensions, lettering size and script style, materials, and colors.

   6. Drawings showing the method of illumination, if any. Manufacturer specifications may be submitted in lieu of detailed drawings.

   7. Written provisions outlining the proposed sign criteria to include: the number of signs for each building frontage; lettering size and style; sign colors; sign face area(s); sign materials; window signs; method of illumination, and landscape treatments. Additionally, guidelines for individual tenant window signs and center-sponsored temporary advertisement/promotional signs shall be provided along with any other written provisions the Zoning Administrator may determine to be necessary.

   8. The Zoning Administrator may require additional information as necessary to properly describe and analyze the application.

• D. Design guidelines. The following guidelines shall be considered when proposing sign location, design, and construction. While compliance is not mandatory, adherence to the guidelines is always strongly encouraged.

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1. Deviation from identified standards. Sign face area and sign heights may deviate from Section D347, above, based on the required findings contained in Subsection D3-52 E., below.

2. Directory signs for multi-tenant centers. For multi-tenant centers with six or more tenants, directory signs are encouraged to direct internal pedestrian and vehicle circulation. However, the directory signs shall not be so prominent as to call attention to themselves from the public street.

3. Free-standing signs. More than one free-standing sign may be allowed for each site frontage when the requirements identified in Subsection D3-47 D. [Free-standing or monument signs], above are met.

4. Kiosks or bulletin boards. Kiosks or community bulletin boards should be provided and properly located within the development.

5. Landscaping. Site landscaping shall be designed to minimize visual obstructions of the structure and/or individual signs, while still enhancing the visual appearance of the structures and signs.

6. Portable signs. Uniform size, graphic, design, and materials for portable signs within a center are strongly encouraged. (See Subsection D3-47 N. [Portable signs], above)

7. Single-tenant free-standing signs discouraged. Single-tenant free-standing signs within multitenant centers are strongly discouraged. However, single-tenant free-standing signs may be allowed:

• a. If the requirements identified in Subsection D3-47 D. (Free-standing or monument signs), above are met; and

  - b. More than one free-standing sign may be allowed for each site frontage when the requirements identified in Subsection D3-47 D. [Free-standing or monument signs], above are met. 
  
  - c. When it can be demonstrated that the sign is necessary to provide business awareness and enhance pedestrian and vehicle safety. 
  

  8. Sufficient wall or facade area to be provided. The structure should be designed so that sufficient wall or facade area is provided for the structure name and logo (if any), as well as to address tenant signs.

  9. Wall-mounted signs and/or logos. A maximum of one wall-mounted sign and/or logo for each tenant for each building elevation is allowed which should be physically related to the tenant entrance. The total number and locations of tenant signs on a wall or structure visible from the freeway should be determined based on design considerations of scale and proportion, the ability of the signs to provide identification and directional assistance, and the enhancements to the structure's appearance.

• E. Required findings. In approving a Master Sign Program, the ARB and/or the Zoning Administrator shall first find that:

  1. The plan's contribution to the design quality of the site and surrounding area will be superior to the quality that would result under the regulations and standards identified in Sections D3-45 and D3-47, above; and

  2. The plan is generally consistent with the criteria identified in Section D3-43 (Criteria and Guidelines) and achieves the purposes identified in Subsection D3-52 A. (Purpose), above.

(Ord. No. 496, § 2, 01/28/2020; Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-53 - Off-Site Directional Signs

• A. Purpose. The purpose of establishing regulations for the location and design of off-site directional signs is to direct the public to major residential areas and major commercial retail shopping and office areas thereby:

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1. Promoting economic viability and community identity;

2. Ensuring traffic safety and traffic flow; and

3. Creating a unified sign program which contributes to the high quality image and character of the City's streetscape.

• B. Off-site directional signs defined. Off-site signs refer to a directional sign representing a major residential subdivision, multi-family residential development, or major commercial retail shopping or office area which is located on a site other than the one on which the sign is located. A sign structure consists of multiple keyboard or identification sign panels which is permanently affixed to the ground and sited in compliance with this Section.

• C. Applicability. A Master Off-Site Directional Sign Program shall require ARB and Planning Commission review for the following:

  1. Major residential subdivisions and multi-family residential developments. Residential subdivisions and multi-family residential developments consisting of 100 or more dwelling units.

2. Major commercial retail and/or office centers. Commercial retail and or office centers consisting of 200,000 gross square feet or more of leasable tenant space. However, commercial retail and/or office centers with less than 200,000 gross square feet of leasable tenant space shall also be eligible for a Master Off-Site Directional Sign Program, but only when all of the following findings can first be made:

   • a. Aggregation of the subject commercial retail and/or office centers with adjacent commercial retail and /or office centers to achieve the minimum required 200,000 square feet is not physically possible due to the surrounding development patterns and/or land use classification(s);

   • b. The subject commercial retail and /or office center is located more than one-quarter mile from a community-serving or neighborhood-serving commercial retail shopping center within the San Ramon City limits;

   • c. The subject commercial retail and/or office center consists of no less than 95,000 gross square feet of leasable tenant space; and

   • d. The sign identification of the commercial retail and/or office center does not cause confusion with the sign identification of surrounding commercial retail and office centers.

D. Design standards.

1. The approved sign structure(s) shall be constructed and painted in a consistent color scheme.

2. Each sign structure, including the top of the logo, shall not exceed a height of 12 feet when measured from the top of the sign to the ground directly below it.

3. The ground within a three-foot radius of the sign structure shall be landscaped or paved, and maintained in a manner that prevents weed growth under the sign structure.

4. Individual keyboard for seven signs on the approved sign structures shall be no greater than 12 inches high by 48 inches long in size and feature a uniform background color. No more than seven signs with a maximum of six-inch high letters shall be located on each sign structure and the lowest sign shall be a minimum of two feet above grade.

5. Individual keyboard signs shall be allowed various compatible colors on a uniform background and shall be consistent with the marketing colors used to advertise or identify the subdivision, multifamily residential development, and/or commercial retail and/or office center.

6. A directional arrow measuring five inches high by 12 inches long shall be shown on each individual sign, and shall be located on the side of the sign closest to the street right-of-way.

7. Each sign structure shall be designed to include the City of San Ramon’s logo at the top of the sign structure, or as recommended by the ARB and approved by the Commission.

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8. As determined by the Director, requests for modification(s) to the design of the off-site directional sign(s) following review by the ARB and the review and approval of the Commission shall require subsequent review and approval by the same review authorities.

E. Locations.

1. The general locations of the off-site directional signs shall be indicated on a master off-site directional sign map approved as part of a Master Off-Site Directional Sign Program. The exact sign structure locations shall be determined by the ARB and the Commission so that the sign structures create an attractive streetscape.

2. The locations of the off-site directional signs shall be typically limited to the major arterial streets within the City (as defined by the General Plan) and shall be located no closer than one-quarter of a mile apart, unless an exception is necessary to properly identify a City or public facility. The precise location of these structures shall comply with the "driveway visibility" requirements in Section D3-37 (Driveways and Site Access).

3. Before installation of the off-site directional signs, all required permits shall be obtained from affected public jurisdictions by the management company, including any City-issued Encroachment Permits, in order to establish off-site directional sign structures within the public rights-of-way.

F. Implementation.

1. The City shall license a management company to administer, implement, install, and maintain the off-site directional signs. This provision does not preclude the City from acting as the management company.

2. Before the construction and installation of the approved off-site directional signs, the authorized management company shall obtain City approval of a leasing program which will include a sign keyboard rental price structure and the specific lease terms including on-going maintenance responsibilities.

3. It shall be the responsibility of the authorized management company to ensure that all sign structures under its control, as approved by the City, are well maintained and are not allowed to become unsightly and/or hazardous. Noncompliance will be reported to the respective management company for correction with 14 days and if the situation does not improve, the City shall have the right to perform corrective actions at the management company's expense, and may cancel the management company's license for good cause.

4. The City may require a refundable cash deposit in the amount to be determined by the City Engineer for each sign installation in order to ensure the removal or replacement of the off-site directional sign key blades for a residential subdivision within 14 days of the closing of the subdivision model home complex. If the sign has not been completely removed/replaced within the specified period, the City shall have the right to remove/replace the sign and deduct the costs from the cash deposit(s). Additional costs shall be charged to the developer or the management company.

5. Before the construction and installation of the approved off-site subdivision direction signs, the approved management company shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the City that lease arrangements have been secured with development representatives to utilize keyboard or sign blades for advertisement purposes. The City may delay the installation of one or more signs if sufficient interest or lease(s) has not been secured by the management company.

d off-site subdivision direction signs, the approved management company shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the City that lease arrangements have been secured with development representatives to utilize keyboard or sign blades for advertisement purposes. The City may delay the installation of one or more signs if sufficient interest or lease(s) has not been secured by the management company.

6. Each approved sign structure shall require a City-issued Building Permit. The individual keyboard signs shall be subject to City administrative review and approval before placement on the individual sign structures to determine exact sign blade locations.

7. The written consent of the affected property owner(s) shall be provided to the City by the authorized management company before sign construction and installation.

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8. Individual keyboard signs shall not be modified to identify different subdivisions/developments without first obtaining ARB approval from the City.

9. Individual keyboard signs shall be allowed on the approved sign structures until the model home complex for the subdivision has been closed.

10. The approved off-site directional sign structures shall be allowed for a maximum period of five years. After which, if additional time is required, the management company shall first apply for and receive an extension of the program from the City.

11. Off-site directional sign structures identifying developments located outside of the City limits are prohibited unless first authorized by the City, to provide direction to a regionally-serving cultural facility or other public facility.

• (Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-2), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D3-54 - Approvals Required

Non-exempt signs may be subject to ARB review and approval when required by the Zoning Administrator or the Commission in compliance with this Section. At the discretion of the Zoning Administrator, any non-exempt sign may be referred to the Commission.

• A. Zoning Administrator review and action required. The Zoning Administrator shall review and take action on the following types of signs, unless otherwise required by this Chapter.

  1. All free-standing signs.

     • a. See Subsection D3-47 D. [Free-standing or monument signs], above.

     • b. Free-standing monument signs with less than 30 feet of separation from another freestanding monument sign.

     • c. Free-standing monument signs exceeding more than one sign for each site frontage.

  2. Freeway-oriented building-mounted signs. (See Subsection D3-47 R. [Freeway-oriented signs], above)

  3. Master Sign Programs. (See Section D3-52, above)

  4. Amendments to Master Sign Programs.

  5. Miscellaneous signs. (See Section D3-48 [Miscellaneous Signs], above)

  6. Public transit shelter signs. Public transit shelter sign design, size, and location standards. (See Subsection D3-47 U. [Public transit shelter signs], above)

  7. Roof, wall, and window signs. (See Subsections D3-47 A. [Wall signs], B. [Window signs], and C. [Roof signs], above)

8. Temporary signs . (See Subsections D3-47 F. [Temporary on-site residential real estate signs], G. [Temporary off-site residential real estate signs], H. [Temporary off-site subdivision directional signs], I. [Temporary on-site commercial real estate signs], L. [Temporary advertising/promotional signs], N. [Portable signs], O. [Temporary special event signs], and P. [Temporary business identification signs], above)

   9. Theatre and cinema signs. (See Subsection D3-47 T. [Theatre or cinema signs], above)

• B. Planning Commission review and action required. The Planning Commission shall review and take action on the following types of signs, unless otherwise required by this Chapter.

  1. Off-site signs. (See Subsection D3-47 E. [Off-site signs], above)

  2. Off-site directional signs (Master Off-Site Directional Sign Program). (See Section D3-53, above)

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3. Wall signs exceeding a sign area of 0.75 square feet for each one linear foot of wall length. (See Subsection D3-47 A. [Wall signs], above)

4. Wall/window signs higher than the allowed structure height. (See Subsection D3-47 A. [Wall signs], above)

5. Freeway-oriented business park identification signs. (See Subsection D3-47 S. [Freewayoriented business park identification signs], above

(Ord. No. 496, § 2, 01/28/2020)

Effective on: 2/27/2020

D3-55 - Required Findings

• A. Master Sign Programs. In approving a Master Sign Program, the Zoning Administrator shall make the required finding identified in Section D3-52, above.

• B. Public transit shelter signs. In approving a public transit shelter sign, the Zoning Administrator shall make the required finding identified in Subsection D3-47 U. [Public transit shelter signs], above.

• C. Sign Permits. In approving a Sign Permit, the Zoning Administrator shall make the required findings that the application is in general compliance with the criteria identified in Section D3-43 (Criteria and Guidelines).

(Ord. No. 496, § 2, 01/28/2020)

Effective on: 2/27/2020

D3-56 - Sign Permit Required

No sign regulated by this Chapter shall be erected or displayed unless a Sign Permit is first approved by the Zoning Administrator, unless otherwise required by this Chapter. Exempt signs shall not require a Sign Permit.

• A. Signs not in compliance with this Chapter. All legally erected/installed signs not in compliance with this Chapter, existing on the date of adoption of this Zoning Ordinance, are allowed to remain in use until there is a request to change the sign or an application for a new Sign Permit is submitted for any sign related to the subject business or development. Sign Permits for new signs may be conditioned upon removal of an existing sign(s) made nonconforming by this Chapter. Any other signs not otherwise legal shall be removed.

• B. Alteration or change to an existing sign face.

  1. Any alteration to or change of an existing sign face shall be subject to the applicable provisions of this Chapter.

2. The owner, or assigned agent, shall obtain a Sign Permit before making the alterations or changes to an existing sign face.

   3. No Sign Permit is required for repainting a sign the same color(s), cleaning, or other normal maintenance or repair of a sign, as long as the sign is not structurally modified in any manner.

• C. Signs granted an exception by the City. Any sign in existence on the date of adoption of this Zoning Ordinance which has been granted an exception by the City, may undergo a change to the sign face; provided, the factors justifying the original exception still apply.

D3-57 - Owner’s Consent Required

No sign shall be placed on a property without the written consent of the property owner.

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D3-58 - Sign Permit Applications

A Sign Permit application form shall be filed with the Department. The application shall contain the name, address, and telephone number of the applicant, signature or letter of authorization from the property owner, and the location of the structure or property on which the proposed sign(s) is to be placed. Sign plans shall be drawn to scale and shall be clear and legible and consistent with professional standards. The sign application shall include the following:

• A. Architectural details, site plan information and elevations. Architectural details, site plan information, and elevations of the structure in context to the project architecture. The site plan shall show the location of all sign(s) existing, proposed, and to be removed.

• B. Other information required by the Zoning Administrator. The application shall include other information, attachment details or exhibits, colors, and material samples as the Zoning Administrator may require.

• C. Application fee. The application shall be accompanied by an application fee in compliance with the City's Fee Schedule.

• D. Consistency with Master Sign Program materials. Consistency with the Master Sign Program required application materials. (See Section D3-52, above)

D3-59 - Building Permit Required

All signs shall require a Building Permit, except for those signs identified in Section D3-45 (Exempt Signs - Signs Not Requiring a Sign Permit) as determined by the Chief Building Official, above.

D3-60 - Required Inventory of Illegal or Abandoned Signs

• A. Inventory required. In compliance with State Law, the Zoning Administrator shall compile an inventory of all illegal or abandoned signs within the City.

• B. Identify location of each illegal or abandoned sign. The inventory shall specifically identify the location of each illegal or abandoned sign by lot and block number and by street address, the sign's legal owner or leaseholder, and the specific standards that are violated or the approximate date of abandonment, as the case may be.

• C. Establishment of an initial date for amortization. This inventory shall be used to establish an initial date for amortization of nonconforming signs under the provisions of this Chapter.

• D. Inventory to be updated twice annually. The inventory shall be updated at least twice annually to include additional illegal signs resulting from Zoning Map amendments and additional abandoned signs, as needed.

D3-61 – Reserved

D3-62– Reserved

D3-63 – Reserved

Chapter V – Portable Outdoor Storage Units

Contents:

D3-64 - Purpose of Chapter D3-65 - Definitions

D3-66 – Number, Size, Duration, and Location D3-67 – Signage

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D3-68 – Maintenance and Prohibition of Hazardous Materials

D3-69 – Reserved

D3-70– Reserved

D3-71 – Permits

D3-72 – Reserved

D3-73 – Reserved

D3-64 - Purpose of Chapter

A. Purpose of Chapter.

This Chapter provides standards and regulation for the use of portable outdoor storage units on residential and non-residential properties.

D3-65 - Definitions

Portable outdoor storage unit. Any container designed for the transportation and/or storage which is typically rented to owners or occupants of property for their temporary use and which is delivered and removed by truck.

Volume. A volume of portable outdoor storage unit is calculated with exterior measurements of each unit.

Total Volume. A total volume is the sum of volumes of multiple portable outdoor storage units to be kept on a site under a single temporary use permit.

D3-66 – Number, Size, Duration, and Location

A. Residential Properties.

There shall be no more than a total volume of 1,050 cubic feet of outdoor storage units, which shall be no more than eight (8) feet in width and eight (8) feet six (6) inches in height, per site. No portable outdoor storage units shall remain at a site in excess of 30 consecutive days in a 12month period. The Zoning Administrator may authorize the use of portable outdoor storage units up to 90 consecutive days as long as a building permit has been obtained and construction diligently commenced or upon the findings that an unusual circumstance exist as determined by the Zoning Administrator. A portable outdoor storage unit shall be placed in a driveway, on a paved surface, or in the rear yard if alley access exists at the rear of the site, with a minimum setback of 1 foot from the front property line and 3 feet from the side and rear property lines.

B. Non-Residential Properties.

The allowed number and sizes of portable outdoor storage units shall be determined by the Zoning Administrator. No portable outdoor storage unit shall be placed at any site in excess of fifteen (15) consecutive days, and in excess of thirty (30) days in a 12-month period. Portable outdoor storage units shall be placed only in the rear or side portion of a site. Under no circumstances shall a portable outdoor storage unit be placed in an area fronting a street or road, or in the front parking lot of a commercial establishment. The placement of portable storage units in fire lanes, passenger loading zones, or commercial loading zones shall be strictly prohibited unless approved by the Zoning Administrator.

laced only in the rear or side portion of a site. Under no circumstances shall a portable outdoor storage unit be placed in an area fronting a street or road, or in the front parking lot of a commercial establishment. The placement of portable storage units in fire lanes, passenger loading zones, or commercial loading zones shall be strictly prohibited unless approved by the Zoning Administrator.

Any portable outdoor storage unit(s) to be placed at any site in excess of fifteen (15) consecutive days, and/or in excess of thirty (30) days in a 12-month period shall be subject to the provision of Section D6-28 Minor Use Permit.

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D3-67 – Signage

A portable outdoor storage unit shall have no signage other than the name, address, and telephone number of the person or firm engaged in the business of renting or otherwise placing the portable outdoor storage unit.

D3-68 – Maintenance and Prohibition of Hazardous Materials

The owner and operator of any site on which a portable outdoor storage unit is placed shall be responsible to ensure that the portable outdoor storage unit is in good condition, free from evidence of deterioration, weathering, discoloration, rust, ripping, tearing or other holes or breaks. When not in use, the portable outdoor storage unit shall be kept locked. The owner and operator of any site on which a portable outdoor storage unit is placed shall also be responsible that no hazardous substances, as defined in Section D3-5 of this Code, are stored or kept within the portable outdoor storage unit.

D3-69 – Reserved

D3-70– Reserved

D3-71 – Permits

It shall be unlawful for any person to place, or permit the placement of, one or more portable outdoor storage unit(s) on property which he or she owns, rents, occupies, or controls without first having obtained a temporary use permit. Application for a temporary use permit shall be made to the Zoning Administrator in accordance with Section D6-16 and Section D6-27 of this Code. The issuance of a permit shall allow the applicant to place portable outdoor storage units on the property in conformance with the requirements of this chapter. The permit shall be posted in plain view at the site.

D3-72 – Reserved

D3-73 – Reserved