Chapter 18.42 — Sign Standards

Sections

18.42.010 – Purpose and Applicability 18.42.020 – Effect of Chapter 18.42.030 – Definitions 18.42.040 – Sign Permit Required 18.42.050 – Comprehensive Sign Program 18.42.060 – Application and Review of Sign Permits

18.42.070 – Exempt Signs 18.42.080 – Prohibited Signs 18.42.090 – Billboards 18.42.100 – Temporary Signs 18.42.110 – Standards for Signs Requiring a Sign Permit 18.42.120 – Standards for Specific Sign Types 18.42.130 – Iconic Signs 18.42.140 – Electronic Digital Display Message Signs 18.42.150 – Signs in Residential Zones

• 18.42.160 – Signs in Commercial and Mixed-Use Zones 18.42.170 – Signs in Office and Industrial Zones

• 18.42.180 – Sign Construction and Maintenance

• 18.42.190 – Removal of Unlawful, Unsafe, and Unauthorized Signs

• 18.42.200 – Nonconforming Signs

18.42.210 – Revocation of Sign Permits

• A. Purpose. The purpose of this Chapter is to establish sign regulations that are consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan, maintain the City’s visual and aesthetic quality, provide adequate identification for uses and activities and improve wayfinding. The City recognizes that signs are an essential element of a community’s visual appearance and provide a means to identify places and promote commerce, provide useful information to the public, and should not become visual distractions along public roadways. These regulations are intended to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. In addition, these regulations are intended to:

  1. Encourage consolidation of signs to reduce visual clutter.

  2. Promote signs that are attractive, pleasing, and harmonized with the physical character of the structure and environment of surrounding properties.

  3. Promote economically stable and visually attractive places in the City.

  4. Prevent an inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message.

  5. Encourage excellence of design.

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6. Improve traffic safety and the smooth and efficient flow of pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles to their destinations.

7. Direct persons to various activities and enterprises, to provide maximum public convenience.

• B. Applicability. It is unlawful to post, erect, re-erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, or equip any sign or sign structure, or paint a new sign, in the City, or cause or permit the same to be done, contrary to or in violation of any of the provisions of this Chapter. Properties located within an area governed by a specific plan are subject to regulations in this Chapter. The provisions of this Chapter shall apply only to the extent the specific or master plan does not regulate a particular sign or provide a standard or regulation and is not in conflict with the provisions of the plan.

• C. Maximum Allowed Sign Area . All signs allowed by this Chapter shall be countable toward the maximum allowed sign area unless stated otherwise in this Chapter.

• A. Content Neutrality. It is the City’s policy and intent to regulate both commercial and noncommercial signs from a viewpoint-neutral and content-neutral manner. The message of the sign shall not be read or evaluated, except to determine the type and category of the sign.

• B. Message Substitution. Signs authorized by this Chapter are allowed to display noncommercial messages in lieu of any other commercial or noncommercial messages. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this Chapter. The purpose of this provision is to prevent an inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech or favoring of any specific noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message.

A-Frame Sign. A freestanding sign usually hinged at the top, or attached in a similar manner, and widening at the bottom to form a shape similar to the letter "A." These signs are usually designed to be portable.

Animated Sign. A sign with motion, flashing lights or color or intensity changes requiring electrical energy or electronic or manufactured sources of supply. Animated sign does not include a sign which tells only time and temperature in alternating sequence.

Awning and Canopy sign. A nonelectric sign that is printed on, painted on, or attached to an awning or canopy and is only permitted on the vertical surface or flap (see Figure 3-17).

Billboard. An off-site freestanding sign.

Building Frontage. The side of the building facing and measured parallel to the street for a single tenant. On a corner parcel, either side may be considered for the structure frontage. For a multi-tenant building, building frontage is the frontage facing the interior parking lot.

Cabinet Sign. Also referred to as wall sign or box sign, are internally illuminated signs, typically mounted to a storefront wall with interchange panel that include sign text.

Comprehensive Sign Program. A program that is required for all new commercial, mixed-use, office, and industrial developments with five or more signs and optional for all new commercial, mixed-use, office, and industrial developments with less than five signs.

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Directory Sign. A sign for listing the tenants or occupants of a structure or center. This sign may be combined with the logo sign (see Figure 3-20).

Directional Sign. A sign indicating where customers or clients need to be directed by means of arrows (see Figure 3-19).

Eaveline. The lowest level of a roof, eave or parapet.

Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented Signs. A freestanding sign that is only allowed along designated freeway and expressway roadways (i.e., Highway 101, 237, Interstate 280, El Camino) by the City and is oriented for high-speed vehicle traffic.

Foot-candle. A unit of illuminance or illumination, equivalent to the illumination produced by a source of one candle at a distance of one foot and equal to one lumen incident per square foot.

Fin, Feather or Sail Sign. A freestanding vertical banner which moves by the wind.

Freestanding Drive-Thru Menu Board. A freestanding sign which is located in the adjacent to the drive aisle for a drive-thru establishment. Typically, these signs include a menu of options and prices (see Figure 3-26).

Freestanding Sign. A sign which is supported by one or more uprights, braces, poles, or other similar structural components that are not attached to a structure (see Figure 3-21).

Graphics. Decorative portion of a sign not containing a commercial message, trademark or logo-type brand name.

Iconic Sign. A sign that is considered historically significant to the City, determined by established criteria and standards (see 18.42.130).

Logo Sign. A trademark or symbol of any business or organization. This sign may be combined with the directory sign.

Luminous Tube Sign. A sign that consists of or is illuminated by exposed electrically charged gas-filled tubing (e.g., neon and argon signs), or by fiber optics, or LEDs (see Figure 3-23).

Menu Board. Menus displayed on the exterior premises of a restaurant (see Figure 3-25).

Monument Sign. A monument sign is a type of Freestanding Sign that has a solid base that extends from ground level, without the use of exposed poles or pylons (see Figure 3-21).

Nameplate. A sign indicating the name and/or address of a structure or occupant.

Nonconforming Sign. A sign that was originally lawfully erected and maintained, but which does not conform to the current standards of this Chapter or is now prohibited.

Obsolete Sign. Sign with no relevant identification or message for a discontinued use, activity or need as displayed on the sign.

Off-Site Sign. A sign which advertises a business, product, service or entertainment primarily conducted, sold or offered other than upon the parcel where the sign is located.

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On-Site Sign. A sign which advertises a business, product, service or entertainment primarily conducted, sold, or offered on the premises where the sign is located. Also, cited as on-site sign.

Painted Sign. A sign that is applied with paint or similar substance on the surface of a wall or fence (see Figure 3-24).

Parapet. The extension of a false front or wall above a roofline.

Portable Sign. A sign that is not permanently affixed to a structure or the ground.

Projecting Sign. A sign that projects from and is supported by a wall of a structure (see Figure 3-28).

Real Estate Sign. A sign advertising real property for sale, exchange, lease, or rent.

Roof Sign. A sign erected, constructed, or placed upon or over a roof of a building, including a mansard roof and which is wholly or partially supported by such buildings.

Service Station Gas Price Sign. A sign containing prices and grades of fuel for sale at a service station (see Figure 3-27).

Sign. A structure or visual device or representation designed and used for the purpose of communicating a message or identifying or attracting attention to a parcel, product, service, person, cause or event.

Sign Area. An area designated by a maximum of eight straight connected lines which enclose all words, letters, figures, symbols, designs, and pictures, together with all framing, background material, colored or illuminated areas and attention attracting devices forming an integral part of an individual message (see Figure 3-16).

Sign Height. Sign height is measured by the vertical distance from the top of nearest street curb.

Subdivision Entry Sign. A monument sign identifying a subdivision and located at the entrance of a subdivision (see Figure 3-18).

Temporary Sign. A sign intended to be displayed for a limited period of time.

Vehicle Sign. A sign which is attached to or painted on a stationary vehicle which is parked on or adjacent to a property with the principal purpose of attracting attention to a product sold, or activity or business located on the property.

Wall Sign. A sign attached (including painted signs) to a wall within the basic structure form. (see Figure 3-29).

Wind-Activated Signs. Signs that are move or are activated by wind. Wind-activated signs include pennants, spinners, banners, and unofficial flags or other similar specialty items

Window Sign. A sign that is applied or attached to a window located in such a manner that it can be seen from the exterior of the structure (see Figure 3-30).

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A Sign Permit is required for all signs, except those specifically exempted in Section 18.42.070 (Exempt Signs), below. Signs that require a Sign Permit shall be subject to approval by the Director or Commission according to the standards specified in Section 18.42.110 (Standards for Signs Requiring a Sign Permit).

• A. Applicability . A Comprehensive Sign Program is required for all new commercial, mixed-use, office, and industrial developments with five or more signs and optional for all new commercial, mixed-use, office, and industrial developments with four or less tenants. If a Comprehensive Sign Program is required for a project, no Sign Permit shall be approved for any sign until the Comprehensive Sign Program has been approved by the Review Authority as conforming to the requirements of this Chapter.

• B. Application contents. For any parcel on which five or more signs are proposed that require a Sign Permit the owner(s) shall submit a Comprehensive Sign Program containing all the following:

  1. An accurate plot plan of the subject property, of a quality and at a scale as the Director may reasonably require;

  2. Location of structures, parking lots, driveways, curb cuts, walkways, and landscaped areas on the subject parcel and names of adjacent streets and other applicable uses;

  3. Computation of the maximum total sign area, the maximum area for individual signs, the height of signs and the number of freestanding signs allowed on the parcel included in the proposed plan in compliance with this Section;

  4. Drawing(s) depicting the lettering or graphic style, lighting associated with, materials, and sign proportions (scaled) of each proposed sign; and

  5. An accurate indication on the plot plan of each present and proposed future sign of any type, as well as scaled elevations depicting the size, height, and location of each present and proposed future sign.

• C. Limit on number of freestanding signs. The Comprehensive Sign Program for all parcels with multiple uses or multiple users shall limit the number of freestanding signs to a total of one for each street on which the parcels included in the plan have frontage and shall provide for shared or common usage of the freestanding signs.

• D. Consent. The Comprehensive Sign Program shall be signed by all property owners or their authorized agents in a form required by the Director.

• E. Procedure. If a Comprehensive Sign Program is to be included within a development plan, site plan, planned unit development plan, or other official plan required by the City for the proposed development, then a Conditional Use Permit shall be processed simultaneously with other plans or permit applications.

• F. Amendment. A Comprehensive Sign Program may be amended by filing a new Comprehensive Sign Program application that conforms to all requirements in effect at the time.

• G. Nonconforming existing signs. If a new or amended Comprehensive Sign Program application is filed for a parcel(s) on which existing signs are located, it shall include a schedule for bringing into conformance, within three years, all signs not conforming to the proposed amended plan or the requirements of this Chapter in effect on the date of submission.

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• H. Binding effect. After approval of a Comprehensive Sign Program, no sign shall be erected, placed, painted, or maintained, except in compliance with the program, and the program may be enforced the same way as any provision of this Chapter.

• I. Required Findings. The Director shall approve a Comprehensive Sign Program if all the following findings can be made:

  1. The sign program meets the standards and sign design criteria specified in this Chapter; and

  2. The sign program is compatible with development on the subject property and developments in the immediate vicinity of the subject property and does not detract from the character or quality of surrounding properties.

• J. Appeals. A decision by the Director may be appealed in compliance with the applicable provisions of Chapter 18.144 (Appeals).

• A. Application Submittal. A Sign Permit application shall be submitted to the Department in compliance with all of the provisions of this Section.

• B. Applications and Fees. All applications for Sign Permits shall be accompanied by drawings and diagrams of suitable scale and clarity to fully describe the design, dimensions, proposed placement, structural and electrical characteristics and appearance of the sign(s). In proposing signs, applicants shall give explicit attention to designing and locating signs to ensure harmony with the existing or proposed architecture and landscape design of the property upon which the sign is to be situated. Fees for Sign Permits shall comply with the Planning Application Fee Schedule.

• C. Expiration. If the work authorized under the properly approved Sign Permit has not been started within 60 days following the date of its issuance, the permit shall become null and void. If after 60 days from the date of the issuance of a Sign Permit any portion of a sign has been erected and the construction work is not completed, the Director may cause the removal of the partially completed sign.

• A. Exempt Signs. The following signs are allowed without a Sign Permit in any zone and shall not be included in the determination of type, number, or area or signs allowed on each parcel. Exempted signs shall be required to adhere to the regulations established for each sign type as provided in this Section.

  1. Signs required by Federal/State law;

  2. Official signs posted by a governmental body, including, flags, banners, emblems, traffic or highway signs, railroad crossing signs, or similar regulatory or warning devices and legal notices;

  3. Holiday displays and decorations, only when not creating a traffic hazard or located within any visual setback area in the visibility clearance area;

  4. Commemorative plaques, tables, date of construction, and similar signs constructed of permanent material. Only one sign for each structure, not to exceed two square feet in area for each sign is allowed;

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5. Signs located inside a structure, mall, or other similar structure, provided these signs are not conspicuously visible and readable from a public street or adjacent properties not under the same ownership;

6. Murals or other artistic paintings on walls, provided no names, information, logos, emblems or other similar information or illustrations of activities associated with uses on the premises or in the vicinity are included in the mural or painting;

7. "No Trespassing" signs. Each sign limited to one square foot in area. Signs may be placed at each corner and each entrance to a parcel and at intervals of not less than 50 feet or in compliance with legal requirements;

8. Real estate signs.

  - **a.** “For Rent”, “For Sale”, and “For Lease” signs shall be posted on the subject parcel, including common driveways, that is being advertised by an authorized agent; 

  - **b.** Real estate signs shall not exceed six square feet for single-family residential and 32 square feet for multi-family or non-residential for each side of a double-sided sign; 

  - **c.** There shall be no more than one sign per street frontage; and 

  - **d.** Illuminated real estate signs are prohibited. 

9. Signs placed by utilities or other publicly regulated service providers indicating location of underground facilities, danger, and aids to service or safety, including official advisory and signal flags;

10. Copy changes in approved changeable copy signs;

11. Signs or notices incidental to a commercial, mixed-use, or industrial establishment (e.g., hours of operation, credit card information, emergency contact information, help wanted, open-close) provided the signs do not contain any commercial messages, the establishment logo, and in total do not exceed four square feet in area for all incidental signs;

12. Memorial tablets or signs and iconic markers; and

13. Window signs not exceeding 25 percent of a tenant’s total window space. Notwithstanding the foregoing, window signs shall not include the outline of windows with neon/LED light borders.

• B. Signs related to the operation of a Mobile Food Vending Facility, provided that the aggregate sign area of all signs on the site, including the signs related to the operation of a Mobile Food Vending Facility, does not exceed the sign area standards in the district in which the Mobile Food Vending Facility is operating. Routine Maintenance. Painting, repainting, or cleaning of a sign shall not be considered erecting or altering a sign. No Sign Permit shall be required unless structural changes are proposed to be made.

• C. Building Permit may be required. Under certain circumstances, temporary signs and other exempt signs may require a Building or Electrical Permit, as required by the uniform codes adopted by the City.

Except as otherwise provided in this Chapter, the following signs, including any sign on public property or within the public right-of-way, except government signs, shall be prohibited throughout the City.

• A. Animated Signs, including blinking and flashing lights and signs.

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• B. Banners, pennants, statuary, streamers, fin, feather, whirligigs, displays, signs placed on architectural projections and merchandise primarily designed and used for sign purposes located outside of structures.

• C. Billboards, pursuant to Section 18.42.090.

• D. Nonconforming sign structure(s) reconstructed beyond the scope and limitations of Section 18.42.200 (Nonconforming Signs) of this Chapter.

• E. Red, green, blue or amber lights or illuminated signs that could interfere with or be confused with any official traffic control device or traffic signal or official directional guide signs.

• F. Portable signs (including sign(s) placed on operable other than stationary vehicle).

• G. Signs emitting foreign material or sound.

• H. Signs on a natural feature (i.e., rock, tree, mound, hill, or mountain).

• I. Signs on roof, parapet, or wall above the eave line.

• J. Tethered balloon(s) or other temporarily or continuously inflatable objects used to draw attention to a use or event.

• K. Neon or LED lighting bordering the outline of windows.

A. Intent.

1. The City has had a policy since 1978 (Ordinance No. 1365) to limit the number of outdoor advertising signs (also commonly referred to as “billboards”) in order to improve the quality of urban life for its citizens. It had been determined that billboards, by their very nature, constitute visual clutter and blight to the appearance of the City. It has also been determined that billboards impede traffic safety by unduly distracting motorists and pedestrians, creating traffic hazards, and reducing the effectiveness of signs needed to direct the public.2.

2. In 2016, the City Council approved a Master Community Plan and Comprehensive Sign Program for the CityPlace Santa Clara Project. In adopting the Master Community Plan, the Council made a finding that creating a specific, limited exception to the limitations on billboards for outdoor advertising facing inward into the “City Center” portion of the CityPlace Santa Clara Project, or facing toward Levi’s Stadium on Tasman Drive, would facilitate the City’s objective to create a pedestrian friendly “live, work, and play” environment that would function as a welldefined center of for the Santa Clara community. The City Council further found that creating this specific limited exception did not weaken the direct link between the City’s objectives and its general prohibition of new billboards, and would not denigrate the City’s interests in reducing visual clutter and blight to the appearance of the City, and in promoting traffic safety and reducing traffic hazards.

3. The City reasserts its policy that the obtrusive nature of billboards makes it imperative that the City control the number, size, and location of billboards. With the exception of the billboards authorized pursuant to the Master Community Plan for the CityPlace Santa Clara Project and the Comprehensive Signate Program for that project (the “CityPlace Billboards”), it is the continued position of the Council that billboards are not permitted within the jurisdictional boundaries of the City unless a particular billboard location has been approved. In the absence

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of a billboard location receiving affirmative approval from the Council, the application shall be denied.

4. It is the Council’s intent to permit no more billboards within the City except for the specific, limited exception for the CityPlace Billboards. The Council intends to restrict the presence of other billboards in the City by limiting the number of billboards other than CityPlace Billboards to those physically in place or for which approvals have been granted as of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter. Additionally, as billboards are physically removed or destroyed, it is the intent of the Council that the number of billboards will be permanently reduced by that number. As of December 19, 2023, there are 14 billboards physically in place that do not qualify as CityPlace Billboards. There are two signs which have been treated historically as directional signs, and there is one approval for a directional sign yet to be constructed. It is the intent of the Council to encompass all signs which conceivably could be construed as billboards within the definition of billboard other than the CityPlace Billboards. Consequently, the total of 17 billboards is the starting point and ceiling for billboards at the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter.

5. It is the express intent of the Council to permit no further billboards within the City, other than the CityPlace Billboards, and to reduce their number through attrition rather than pay compensation pursuant to the provisions of Article 7 (commencing with Section 5400) of Chapter 2 of Division III of the California Business and Professions Code, which provisions require compensation for billboards removed at governmental insistence.

• B. General Provisions. All Billboards, other than the CityPlace Billboards, are subject to the following:

  1. Existing billboards shall not be relocated on the property.

  2. There shall be no moving, rotating, or revolving signs or panels.

  3. Signs are to be painted, repaired, backed with lattice when single-faced, and panels aligned as appropriate, and maintained in good condition.

  4. The signs and sites of signs are to be maintained in a clean condition, and landscaping is required where such is practical.

  5. In no event shall the total of billboards in the entire City exceed 17.

  6. There are currently 17 billboards in place or approved for construction. If and when a billboard, either nonconforming or with a permit, is physically destroyed or in a state of disrepair (50 percent or more of its reasonable construction value in either case), dismantled, removed, ceases to be used as a billboard for at least 120 consecutive calendar days, or is in any way terminated for any reason, the maximum number of billboards permitted to be in the City shall be reduced by that extent.

C. Outdoor advertising display relocation requirements.

1. Subject to the provisions in SCCC 18.42.090(A) and (B) and pursuant to Section 5412 of the California Business and Professions Code, the City may enter into agreements with advertising display owners to provide for the relocation of outdoor advertising displays.

2. The Council, following the review and recommendation from the Commission, may approve the relocation of advertising displays relocated pursuant to agreements made under this section.

• A. Sign Permit Required. A Sign Permit shall be required for all temporary commercial signs and is subject to Director review and approval.

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• B. Allowed Sign Area. Temporary sign areas are not counted under the maximum allowed sign area.

• C. Temporary On-site Commercial Signs. The following signs may be allowed as on-site temporary commercial signs in all zones on a temporary basis, subject to subsection A:

1. On-site Subdivision Signs.

• a. Sign Permits for on-site subdivision signs may be issued at any time after recordation of the final subdivision map and shall be removed following the sale of the final home or parcel. All signs shall then be removed upon expiration of the Sign Permit, unless renewal of the permit for a period of not more than one additional 12-month period is approved by the Director; and

  • (1) On-site subdivision signs shall be continuously maintained, not adversely affect the use and appearance of existing structures or landscaping and shall not create hazardous traffic conditions. On-site subdivision signs are subject to all the following standards: The construction of any sign shall be in strict compliance with the provisions of this Chapter and all other laws of the City.

  • (2) All signs shall be removed from the property prior to the sale of the final parcel.

  • (3) All signs shall be located on the subdivision site which they advertise.

  • (4) Signs shall not exceed 10 feet in height.

  • (5) No sign shall exceed 32 square feet in area.

  • (6) Identification signs are allowed provided no more than one sign for every five parcels with a maximum of four signs. Signs shall not exceed six square feet in area.

  • (7) If the on-site subdivision sign is within the visibility clearance area of any driveway or intersection, it shall not exceed two feet, six inches in height.

  • (8) Signs are allowed on parcels with a model home, provided they do not exceed four in number and six square feet each in area. Signs shall be removed immediately after the sale of the final parcel or home.

  • (9) Illuminated residential signs are prohibited.

2. Construction Project Signs.

• a. A Sign Permit shall be required for any temporary construction project sign. The permit may be issued at any time on or after issuance of a Building Permit for the structure in question. The sign permit shall expire six months following the date on which the permit was issued or upon the completion of construction, whichever occurs sooner. The sign shall be removed on expiration of the permit unless, prior to expiration, the permit is renewed on approval of the Director. The permit renewal shall not be for a period greater than six months.

ng Permit for the structure in question. The sign permit shall expire six months following the date on which the permit was issued or upon the completion of construction, whichever occurs sooner. The sign shall be removed on expiration of the permit unless, prior to expiration, the permit is renewed on approval of the Director. The permit renewal shall not be for a period greater than six months.

• b. No more than one sign having an area not exceeding 16 square feet shall be permitted on the construction project site. Temporary construction signs are not allowed for residential subdivisions where temporary subdivision signs are erected.

3. Special Event Signs. Special events signs are limited to the approval of up to two permits per calendar year for each business or organization.

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  - **a.** Holiday Special Event Signs. Holiday special event signs or banners directly related to the holiday or special event during the holiday period or special event are permitted for only 60 days from placement. 

  - **b.** Grand Opening Banner. One temporary on-site grand opening banner for a period not to exceed two weeks after the opening day of the newly established business as established by the start date on the City Business Tax Certificate. The grand opening banner shall not exceed 32 square feet in area and no higher than first story. 

• D. Temporary Noncommercial signs. Temporary noncommercial signs are allowed subject to the following limitations:

  1. Residential Zones and Uses. Up to four temporary noncommercial signs, each no larger than six (6) square feet in area, are permitted per dwelling unit. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no more than four such signs are permitted to be located in the front yard or street-facing side yard of any residential property, whether single-family, two-family, or multi-family. Temporary NonCommercial Signs may be attached to freestanding sign structures no more than five feet in height, building walls, or fences. Temporary noncommercial signs must be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement.

  2. Non-Residential and Mixed-Use Zones and Uses. Temporary Noncommercial Signs meeting the requirements of this Section are permitted in commercial, mixed-use, and other nonresidential zones and uses. Temporary Noncommercial Signs must be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement, and each sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in sign area. For properties not subject to a Comprehensive Sign Program, the maximum number of Temporary Noncommercial Signs per property at one time shall be four.

  3. Signs are prohibited within a street intersection, sight distance triangle, or at a location where the sign may interfere with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with an authorized traffic sign.

  4. Signs shall not be nailed or affixed to trees, fences, or public utility polices and shall not be located in the public right-of-way, parkway, or on publicly owned land.

5. Signs shall be removed or replaced within sixty days following placement.

• A. Signs. Signs are allowed and shall be maintained in the zones where the sign is allowed after having secured approval of the location, number, size, and design of the sign or advertising structure subject to the conditions in each zone.

• B. Quality of materials and workmanship. All signs shall be constructed in a workmanship manner of durable materials intended to provide long life, ease of maintenance, high quality appearance, and clearly legible information for the sign user and public. The Review Authority shall retain the right to require that a licensed sign contractor(s) design, build, and/or erect the sign if the value, location, and/or visual impact of the sign warrants this requirement.

• C. Sign Area Calculations.

  1. Allowable Sign Square Footage . All signs are measured based on every linear foot of structure frontage to determine the maximum allowable sign square footage, unless noted otherwise in 18.42.120 (Standards for Specific Sign Types).

  2. Sign Area Calculations. Sign area calculation is based on every linear foot of structure frontage, to a specified amount of sign square footage. For example, if a structure has 100 feet of linear frontage, parallel to a public street or public right-of-way and one foot of sign area is

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allowed for every foot of linear frontage the maximum allowable sign square footage would be 100 square feet. The sign area calculations described above do not include sign area from secondary signage that is not visible from the right-of-way.

3. Sign Area Calculation. The sign surface area shall be calculated by measuring square footage based on the height and width of sign copy (sign text) on all sign faces. See Figure 3-16 (Sign Area Measurements).

Figure 3-17 Sign Area Measurement

==> picture [450 x 242] intentionally omitted <==

• D. Residential Zones. Table 3-8 (Signs Allowed in Residential Zones) provides regulations for permanent signs in residential zones (not including mixed-use zones), and legal nonconforming residential uses in nonresidential zones. In the case of inconsistency between regulations provided in the table and regulations provided for specific sign types, the regulations for specific sign types shall take precedence.

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Table 3-8 Signs Allowed in Residential Zone

• E. Commercial, Mixed-Use, Office, and Industrial Zones. Table 3-9 (Signs Allowed in Commercial, Mixed-Use, Office, and Industrial Zones) provides regulations for permanent signs in commercial, mixed-use, and industrial zones. In the case of inconsistency between regulations provided in the table and regulations provided for specific sign types, the regulations for specific sign types shall take precedence.

• F. Retail Signage. In addition to the standards listed in Subsection 18.42.120 and Table 3-9, retail uses are allowed a sign area with a maximum square footage of 2 square feet per each foot of linear frontage. Sign width is limited to 75 percent of business frontage width and 50 percent of structure wall/facia heights.

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G. Location Restrictions.

1. All signs shall meet the setback requirements of the zone in which the subject parcel is located, unless otherwise noted in Section 18.42.150 (Signs in Residential Zones), Section 18.42.160 (Signs in Commercial and Mixed-Use Zones), and Section 18.42.170 (Signs in Office and Industrial Zones) or approved by the Director or Planning Commission.

• H. Signs shall not be placed in the public right-of-way.

I. Sign Illumination.

1. Lights used to illuminate signs shall be installed to concentrate the illumination on the sign and to minimize glare upon a public street or abutting property. Unless otherwise noted, all sign acrylic panels shall be opaque, to only allow the text or logo to shine through, minimizing nighttime light pollution.

2. Illuminated signs shall require the approval of a Building Permit.

• J. Sign Modifications. The Director may grant a Minor Modification (Chapter 18.124) for up to 25 percent of the requirements of this Chapter.

• A. Awning and Canopy Signs. The following standards shall apply to all signs placed on an awning or canopy attached to a structure. See Figure 3-17 (Awning and Canopy Sign).

  1. Lettering, logos, symbols, and graphics are allowed on up to 25 percent of the area of a shed (slope) portion of the awning and valance portion of the awning. Signs shall be applied flat against the awning surface. In the case of a barrel shaped (curved) awning, signs shall not occupy more than 60 percent of the bottom 12 inches of the awning.

  2. Only permanent signs that are an integral part of the awning are allowed. Temporary signs shall not be placed on awnings or canopies.

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3. Awning signs are allowed for first and second story commercial and mixed-use occupancies only. No awning signs shall be allowed above the second floor.

4. Awnings shall conform to the size and shape of the window or door above which they are located. Subject to the determination of the Director, overly large awnings and awnings with unusual shapes designed for the purpose of providing additional sign area are not allowed.

5. A minimum of eight feet of clearance shall be provided between the lowest part of an awning or canopy and the grade below.

6. External illumination with a full cut-off floodlight is permitted.

7. Awnings and canopies shall not be constructed of translucent materials and shall not be lighted from under the awning/canopy (back-lit awning) so that the awning/canopy appears internally illuminated.

Figure 3-18 Awning and Canopy Sign

==> picture [322 x 295] intentionally omitted <==

B. Subdivision Entry Signs.

1. Individual Subdivision entry signs shall not exceed 75 square feet of total sign area (a doublesided subdivision entry sign would equal 37.5 square feet per side). See Figure 3-18 (Subdivision Entry Sign).

2. Subdivision entry signs shall not exceed a height of six feet.

3. Monument style subdivision entry signs are allowed; all other sign types for subdivision entry signs are prohibited.

4. A minimum of 50 percent of the sign area shall be devoted to subdivision identification.

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5. Up to 30 percent of the sign area may be devoted to individual business or organization logos.

6. External illumination is permitted.

Figure 3-19 Subdivision Entry Sign

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C. Directional and Directory Signs.

1. Directional Signs. See Figure 3-19 (Directional Sign).

• a. Directional signs shall not be counted against allowable sign area, unless the signs include business logo, name, or advertising. If a business logo, name, or advertising is a component of a directional sign, then the area of the sign devoted to the logo, name, or advertising will be counted toward the allowable sign square footage.

  • b. If the directional sign is located within the visibility clearance area of any driveway or intersection, it shall not exceed three feet in height.

  • c. Directional signs shall not exceed six square feet of sign area.

  • d. External illumination is permitted.

  • e. Freestanding signs shall not be located on the subject property and not within a dedicated utility easement.

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Figure 3-20 Directional Sign

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2. Directory Signs. See Figure 3-20 (Directory Sign).

• a. Directory signs shall not be counted in the allowable sign area based on frontage, unless the business logo, name, or advertising is used. If a logo is a component of a directory sign, then the square footage of the portion of the sign that is advertising the specific establishment will be counted toward the total allowable square footage of sign area.

• b. Directory signs shall not exceed 16 square feet of sign area.

• c. Directory signs shall not exceed six feet in height.

• d. If the directory sign is located within the visibility clearance area of any driveway or intersection, it shall not exceed three feet in height.

• e. Directory signs shall be placed in a landscaped bed and shall have a minimum of two square feet of landscaping for every square foot of sign area measured at the base of the sign.

• f. External or internal illumination is permitted. External illumination by downward lighting is prohibited.

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Figure 3-21 Directory Sign

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• D. Electronic Digital Display Message Signs. See Section 18.42.130 (Electronic Digital Display Message Signs) for development standards and permit requirements.

• E. Freestanding and Monument Signs.

1. Freestanding Signs.

• a. A freestanding sign is allowed by the provisions of this Chapter provided the freestanding sign complies with the provisions of this Chapter.

• b. Freestanding signs may not exceed 150 square feet of sign area per individual sign (a double-sided freestanding sign would equal 75 square feet per side).

• c. Freestanding signs not exceeding six feet in height and thirty 30 square feet in total sign area are allowed, at a minimum setback of four feet behind parcel line.

• d. Freestanding signs shall not exceed a height of 20 feet.

  • e. If the freestanding sign is within the visibility clearance area of any driveway or intersection, it shall not exceed three feet in height.

  • f. Freestanding signs shall not be located within a dedicated utility easement.

  • g. To ensure the readability, the minimum letter size required on all freestanding signs shall be 10 inches. Sign copy shall not be located closer than one half-letter height to the sign edge or other line of copy.

  • h. External illumination with a hooded floodlight is prohibited. Internal illumination is permitted.

  • i. Freestanding signs shall be placed in a landscaped bed and shall have a minimum of two square feet of landscaping for every square foot of sign area measured at the base of the sign.

2. Monument Signs. See Figure 3-21 (Monument Sign).

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• a. A Monument sign is allowed by the provisions of this Chapter provided the monument sign complies with the provisions of this Chapter.

• b. Monument signs may not exceed 100 square feet of sign area per individual sign (a double-sided freestanding sign would equal 50 square feet per side).

• c. Monument signs not exceeding four feet in height and thirty (30) square feet in total sign area are allowed, at a minimum setback of four feet behind parcel line.

• d. Monument signs shall not exceed a height of 12 feet.

• e. If the monument sign is within the visibility clearance area of any driveway or intersection, it shall not exceed three feet in height.

• f. Monument signs shall not be located within a dedicated utility easement.

• g. To ensure the readability, the minimum letter size required on all monument signs shall be six inches. Sign copy shall not be located closer than one half-letter height to the sign edge or other line of copy.

• h. External illumination with a hooded floodlight is permitted. Internal illumination is permitted.

• i. Monument signs shall be placed in a landscaped bed and shall have a minimum of two square feet of landscaping for every square foot of sign area measured at the base of the sign.

Figure 3-22 Monument Signs

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• F. Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented Signs. See Figure 3-22 (Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented Sign).

  1. Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented signs shall be located on the same parcel on which the structure or use is being advertised.

  2. Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented signs shall not exceed 30 feet in height.

  3. Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented signs may only be located on parcels located no more than 500 feet from the outside edge of a freeway right-of-way.

  4. Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented signs shall not be placed within 750 feet of another freeway-oriented sign.

  5. Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented signs shall not exceed 200 square feet in sign area.

6. Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented signs shall require the approval of a Conditional Use Permit in compliance with Chapter 18.114 (Conditional Use Permits and Minor Use Permits).

7. External illumination is prohibited.

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8. Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented signs shall be placed in a landscaped bed and shall have a minimum of two square feet of landscaping for every square foot of sign area measured at the base of the sign.

Figure 3-23 Freeway- and Expressway-Oriented Sign

==> picture [294 x 372] intentionally omitted <==

• G. Luminous Tube Signs (neon). See Figure 3-23 (Luminous Tube Sign).

  1. Tubing shall not exceed one-half inch in diameter.

  2. Luminous tube lighting adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed one half foot-candle measured at the property line where the sign is located.

  3. No luminous sign containing red or green colors shall be erected within 150 feet of an intersection containing traffic lights.

  4. Luminous tubes shall not be combined with any reflective materials (e.g., mirrors, polished metal, highly glazed tiles, or other similar materials).

  5. Luminous tube lighting shall not be used to surround a window, door, or similar element except as part of an allowed sign.

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Figure 3-24 Luminous Tube Sign

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H. Painted Signs. See Figure 3-24 (Painted Sign).

1. Painted signs shall not exceed 150 square feet per individual sign on the primary street frontage and 100 square feet on the secondary street frontage of a corner parcel. The signs shall count toward the maximum allowable sign area.

2. Painted signs shall be centered on structures unless otherwise determined by the Director due to existing architectural features of the structure.

3. If a structure is located on a corner parcel with two street frontages, both frontages may be used when calculating allowable sign area.

4. To ensure the readability, the minimum sign letter size shall be six inches.

5. External illumination with a hooded floodlight is permitted.

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Figure 3-25 Painted Sign

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I. Price and Menu Boards.

1. Menu Boards (Excluding Freestanding Dive-thru menu boards). See Figure 3-25 (Menu Board Sign).

• a. Menu boards are not counted against the maximum allowable sign area.

• b. Menu boards shall not exceed 30 square feet in area.

• c. Menu boards shall be located at the front entrance to the establishment and mounted flat against the wall.

  • d. Internal or external illumination is permitted.

Figure 3-26 Menu Board Sign

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2. Freestanding Drive-thru Menu Boards. See Figure 3-26 (Freestanding Drive-thru menu Board).

• a. Freestanding Drive-thru menu and price boards are not counted against the maximum allowable sign area.

• b. Each menu board shall not exceed 12 square feet in area.

• c. No more than two menu boards are allowed per establishment.

• d. Freestanding Drive-thru menu boards shall be located along the drive-thru lane a minimum of eight feet from the entrance of the lane.

• e. External illumination is prohibited.

• f. Freestanding Drive-thru menu boards shall be placed within a landscaped bed and shall have two square feet of landscaping for every square foot of sign area measured at the base of the menu board.

Figure 3-27 Freestanding Drive-thru Menu Board Sign

==> picture [452 x 184] intentionally omitted <==

3. Service Station Gas Price Sign. See Figure 3-27 (Service Station Gas Price Sign).

• a. Service station gas price sign shall not exceed 25 square feet of sign area for each side of a double-sided sign.

• b. The service station gas price sign is not allowed to be located within the visibility clearance area of any driveway or intersection.

• c. No more than two service station gas price signs are permitted per service station. Each of the allowed two service station gas price signs is permitted to have two sides.

• d. External illumination is prohibited.

• e. Static LED price figure displays are permitted.

• f. Service Station Gas Price Sign shall be placed within a landscaped bed and shall have two square feet of landscaping for every square foot of sign area measured at the base of the menu board.

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Figure 3-28 Service Station Gas Price Sign

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• J. Projecting Signs. See Figure 3-28 (Projecting Sign).

  1. Projecting signs shall not exceed the height of the structure to which they are attached.

  2. Projecting signs are not counted against the maximum allowable sign area.

  3. No more than one projecting sign is permitted per street frontage.

  4. Projecting signs shall not project more than five feet from the supporting wall.

  5. Projecting signs shall not exceed eight square feet of sign area.

  6. Projecting signs shall be no less than eight feet from grade or any underlying walkway or thoroughfare.

7. Projecting signs shall not be internally illuminated but may be floodlighted. No projecting sign shall have a clearance of less than eight feet over public sidewalks or less than 14 feet where it extends over any vehicular driveway or parking area.

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Figure 3-29 Projecting Sign

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K. Wall Signs. See Figure 3-29 (Wall Sign).

1. Wall signs shall be attached flat against a structure and parallel to the face of the structure wall.

2. Wall signs shall not project more than 12 inches from the wall and shall not project above the roof line or extend over a public sidewalk or right-of-way.

3. To ensure the readability, the minimum letter size allowed shall be six inches. Sign copy shall not be located closer than one half-letter height to the sign edge or other line of copy.

4. If a structure is situated on a corner parcel with two street frontages, both frontages may to be used when calculating allowable sign area.

5. Wall signs shall be no less than eight feet from grade or any underlying walkway or thoroughfare.

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Figure 3-30 Wall Sign

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• L. Window Signs (permanent and temporary). See Figure 3-30 (Window Sign).

  1. Window signs shall be allowed only on windows located on the ground floor and second story of a structure. Window signs are not allowed above the second story.

  2. Window signs shall not count toward the maximum allowable sign area.

  3. The placement of window signs shall allow for the bottom 24” of each window on the ground floor to be left clear for the unobstructed observation by safety personnel (e.g., Santa Clara Police Department, County Sherriff, private security, etc.).

  4. Window signs shall not cover more than 25 percent of each individual window on either a primary or secondary building frontage. A window is considered to be any glazed area, including glass curtain walls.

  5. Window advertisements using specialized window chalk and/or window markers are prohibited.

  6. Illumination of window signs is prohibited.

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Figure 3-31 Window Sign

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A. Applicability.

1. Approved iconic signs may be an allowed non-conforming sign and any alterations require a Sign Permit approved by the Director.

2. This Section applies to legally established existing signs in the City that meet all of the following requirements and criteria, as determined by the Director:

• B. Sign requirements. Iconic signs shall meet all of the following sign requirements:

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1. The sign uses materials and technology representative of its historical period of construction.

2. The sign is structurally safe or can be made safe without substantially altering its historical appearance.

• C. Iconic Sign Criteria . Iconic signs shall meet all of the following criteria:

  1. The sign exemplifies the cultural, economic, and historic heritage of the City.

  2. The sign is unique.

  3. The sign is originally associated with a business only found in the City, Santa Clara County, or the State; or there is historical documentation to support its preservation.

  4. The sign retains a majority of its character-defining features. If the character-defining features have been altered or removed, the majority must be potentially restorable to their historic function and appearance.

  5. The sign is at least 50 years old.

• A. Applicability. This Section applies to all electronic digital display message signs, including billboards (Section 18.42.090) and is intended to implement and comply with the California Outdoor Advertising Act of 2014, California Business and Professions Code Section 5200 et seq., as related to outdoor advertising displays, and Section 131 of Title 23 of the United States Code, including any amendments as may be adopted from time to time.

• B. No Exception to Billboard Limitations. The standards set forth in this section shall not be construed as an exception to the limitation on billboards set forth in Section 18.42.090. Consequently, any new electronic digital display message sign must be either (1) noncommercial; (2) on-site advertising only; (3) a billboard that replacing existing billboards pursuant to the replacement provisions of Section 18.42.090; or (4) a CityPlace Billboard.

• C. Permit requirements. No electronic digital display message sign shall be erected or maintained until a Conditional Use Permit has first been approved in compliance with Chapter 18.114 (Conditional Use Permits) and any other applicable Federal and State statutes including the California Department of Transportation, Outdoor Advertising Permit Requirements.

• D. Conditions of approval. Approval of a Conditional Use Permit to allow an electronic digital display message sign shall consider/include language addressing all of the following:

  1. Any allowed deviations from the development standards established in Subsection E (Development Standards), below.

  2. The amount of time each day dedicated to public service announcements that will be displayed, at no cost to the City.

  3. Terms requiring periodic review to ensure compliance with the development standards and conditions of approval.

• E. Required findings. Approval of a Conditional Use Permit to allow an electronic digital display message sign shall be based on all the following findings and any additional findings as may be required by the Department or the Planning Commission:

  1. The proposed electronic digital display message sign is to be located in an appropriate area as defined by Subsection E (Development standards), below;

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2. The proposed electronic digital display message sign is placed in the least visually impacting manner;

3. The Conditional Use Permit contains appropriate language addressing revenue and/or other public benefits for the City;

4. The proposed electronic digital display message sign complies with all the applicable operational standards specified in Subsection F, below, unless modified by the Planning Commission, as well as all applicable Federal and State laws;

5. The placement of the proposed electronic digital display message sign will not adversely affect residential use of property; and

6. The placement of the proposed electronic digital display message sign will not pose a traffic hazard.

F. Development Standards .

1. Sign face dimensions. The electronic digital display message sign display area shall not exceed 800 square feet, including border and trim, and excluding base or apron supports and other structural members. The overall length shall not exceed 60 feet.

2. Height. Unless modified by the terms of the Conditional Use Permit, the maximum overall height of an electronic digital display message sign shall not exceed 25 feet, measured from the finished grade at the structure base to the top of the message sign structure.

3. Separation. No electronic digital display message sign shall be located closer than 1,500 linear feet of another electronic display message sign, as measured from the centerline of each support structure.

4. Support structure. All proposed electronic digital display message signs shall be designed to have a single cylindrical column support.

5. Cutouts and attachments. No cutouts or attachments shall be allowed, unless allowed in compliance with the conditions of the Conditional Use Permit.

6. Double-faced signs. Double-faced electronic digital display message signs shall be located on the same cylindrical column structure and shall be positioned back-to-back. At no point, shall the distance between the two sign faces exceed eight feet.

7. Mechanical screening. Each sign structure shall include a facing of proper dimensions to conceal back bracing, framework, and structural members and/or any electrical equipment.

8. Owner identification. An owner identification sign shall be provided on all electronic digital display message signs. The area of the owner identification sign shall not be counted towards the maximum allowable sign face dimensions.

9. Undergrounding of utilities. All utilities installed in connection with the electronic digital display message sign shall be underground.

G. Operational standards.

1. Brightness. Light produced by an electronic/digital display message sign shall not exceed a maximum illumination of 5,000 nits (candelas per square meter) during daylight hours and a maximum illumination of 500 nits (candelas per square meter) between dusk to dawn as measured from the sign’s face.

2. Dimmer control. Signs shall have an automatic dimmer control to produce a distinct illumination change from a higher illumination level to a lower level for the time period between one halfhour before sunset and one half-hour after sunrise.

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3. Brightness review. Each electronic digital display message sign shall be subject to a 30-day review period during which time the Director may determine that a reduction in illumination or turning off of the sign for certain evening hours, is necessary due to negative impacts on surrounding property or the community in general. The Director’s determination shall be made without regard to the message content of the sign.

4. Change of message. Messages displayed on an electronic digital display message sign shall be a static display without change for a minimum duration eight seconds except for those messages where the hour-and-minute, date, or temperature/weather information is updated. Messages shall be complete within each message/display and without continuation in content to the next message or to any other sign. The message/display shall change instantaneously without any fading in/out, scrolling, dissolve, or similar animation.

5. No animation. Any form of moving, animated, oscillating, or rotating images, or any other design intended to attract attention through movement or the semblance of movement on any part of the sign is prohibited at all times.

6. Maintenance. Signs shall be properly maintained in good working order at all times. Signs shall be designed and equipped to freeze the changeable message in one position or to go dark if a malfunction occurs. The sign owner shall immediately stop the electronic/digital display when notified by the City that it is malfunctioning or not complying with regulations of this Section.

7. Nonconforming sign structure. An existing sign or sign structure that is nonconforming as to location, size, height, or other regulation shall not be changed to a new electronic digital display message sign until all nonconformities have been eliminated.

8. Public service announcements. All electronic digital display message signs shall be required to provide for public service announcements, including Amber Alerts, and other community service announcements in compliance with the terms of the Conditional Use Permit.

• A. Applicability. Only signs meeting the following standards will be permitted in residential zones, provided that all other applicable provisions of this Chapter are complied with.

B. Development Standards.

1. Signs shall be located and erected only upon the premises occupied by the person or ancillary business to be identified or advertised by the signs.

2. The location of all signs shall comply with the building, electrical and fire prevention codes of the City as amended.

Table 3-10 Residential Zones Allowed Sign Types and Permits. The following sign regulations apply to residentially zoned parcels.

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• C. General Residential Sign Regulations. Signs shall be placed a minimum of five feet from a front property line and in compliance with the sight-distance triangle (Section 18.30.030) and shall be located outside of a dedicated utility easement.

D. Freestanding Monument Signs.

1. Adjacent Uses. One freestanding monument sign for each single tenant, parcel, or multi-tenant complex for institutional uses in residential zones.

2. Subdivision Entry Sign. One freestanding monument sign for each subdivision.

3. Multifamily Complex Entry Sign. Freestanding signs are not allowed for multifamily complexes containing less than 20 dwelling units. One freestanding monument sign for each multifamily complex containing 20-36 units. Two freestanding signs are permitted for multifamily complexes containing more than 37 units.

• A. Applicability. Only signs meeting the following standards will be permitted in commercial and mixeduse zones, provided that all other applicable provisions of this Chapter are complied with.

• B. Development Standards. Signs shall be located and erected only upon the premises occupied by the person or business to be identified or advertised by the signs. The location of all signs shall comply with the building, electrical and fire prevention codes of the City as amended.

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C. Table 3-11 Commercial and Mixed-Use Zones Allowed Sign Types and Permit Requirements.

Table 3-11

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• D. General Commercial and Mixed-Use Sign Location Regulations. Sign shall be placed a minimum of five feet from the front property line and shall not be located within a dedicated utility easement, unless otherwise noted in Section 18.42.120.

• E. Specific Commercial and Mixed-Use Sign Regulations. Signs shall be in compliance with Table 3- 11 (Commercial and Mixed-Use Zone Allowed Sign Types and Permit Requirements).

  1. Freestanding Monument Sign. Freestanding monument signs shall provide landscaping at the sign base, with a minimum of four-square feet per square foot of sign area.

  2. Expressway-Oriented Sign. Expressway-oriented signs shall meet the setback requirements of the zone in which they are located. Conditions of approval may increase the required setbacks from designated expressways and corridors.

• A. Applicability. Only signs meeting the following standards will be permitted in office and industrial zones, provided that all other applicable provisions of this Chapter are complied with.

• B. Development Standards. Signs shall be located and erected only upon the premises occupied by the person or business to be identified or advertised by the signs. The location of all signs shall comply with the building, electrical and fire prevention codes of the City as amended.

• C. General Office and Industrial Sign Location Regulations . Sign shall be placed a minimum of five feet from the front property line and shall not be located within a dedicated utility easement.

• D. Table 3-12 Office and Industrial Zones Allowed Sign Types and Permit Requirements.

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Signs and their components shall be regularly maintained and kept in good repair and appearance at all times. If a sign is not properly maintained, it shall be removed or repaired within 30 days, following written notice of insufficient maintenance by the Director or by the Building Official, or their designee.

A. Abandoned Signs.

1. Removal of Abandoned Signs.

  - **a.** An abandoned sign shall be removed by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located immediately upon closure of the business or the end of the event. 

  - **b.** A sign frame or structure that supported an abandoned sign and that conforms to all applicable regulations shall be allowed to remain in place, however, the sign’s printed content shall be removed, and a blank panel should be put in its place. However, in the event a sign frame or structure is inconsistent with the regulations of this Chapter, the sign structure and/or frame shall be either altered to comply with the regulations of this Chapter or removed by the owner or lessee of the property. 

  - **c.** Signs considered by the City to have iconic value or cultural significance shall be exempt from the provisions of this Subsection. 

  - **d.** If the owner or lessee fails to remove the sign, the City, following proper notice, may have the sign removed. 

2. Recovery of costs. When the City is required to remove an abandoned sign, the reasonable cost of the removal and storage may be assessed against the owner of the sign(s) and/or the property owner. If not paid, the applicable costs may be imposed as a tax lien against the property.

• B. Dangerous and/or Defective Signs. It is unlawful for any business or residential property owner or lessee to maintain or permit to be maintained on any business or residential property any sign that is in a dangerous or defective condition. A sign shall be removed by the owner of the sign, owner or lessee of the property, or the Director, at the expense of the owner of the sign or property. Alternatively, the sign shall be repaired by the owner or lessee at the expense of the owner or lessee.

• A. Amortization of Nonconforming Signs. Nonconforming signs shall be removed or altered to be conforming as provided below.

  1. Residential Zones. Legal nonconforming on-site signs that are in a residential zone shall be removed from the site without any compensation (i.e., financial or otherwise) after the expiration of 10 years from the date the sign became nonconforming. Upon the expiration of the amortization period, the sign shall be an illegal use subject to immediate removal. Nonconforming on-site signs that are also illegal signs (i.e., never obtained the required permits) shall be removed immediately from the site without any compensation.

  2. Commercial, Mixed-Use, Office, and Industrial Zones. Legal nonconforming commercial, mixed-use, office, and industrial signs and billboards existing at the time this Zoning Code became effective may be continued, although the use does not conform with these provisions,

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provided these nonconforming signs and billboards and their supporting structures shall be completely removed by their owners/lessees, unless made to fully conform to the provisions of this Chapter, no later than 10 years following the effective date of this Zoning Code, unless specified otherwise in Section 18.42.090 (Billboards).

• B. Continuance of Nonconforming Signs. A nonconforming sign may be continued and shall be maintained in good condition as required by these regulations, but it shall not be:

  1. Structurally changed to another nonconforming sign, but its pictorial content may be changed;

  2. Structurally altered to prolong the life of the sign, except to meet safety requirements;

  3. Expanded or altered in a manner that increases the degree of nonconformity; or

  4. Reestablished after damage or destruction if the estimated cost of reconstruction exceeds 50 of the replacement costs as determined by the Building Division.

• C. New signs on sites with nonconforming signs. No new sign shall be approved for a site, structure, or use that contains a nonconforming sign, unless the nonconforming sign is first removed or modified to fully comply to the provisions of this Chapter. No discretionary land use permits shall be issued for any structures, expansions, or new construction on a site that contains nonconforming signs, unless all signs on the site are brought into compliance with this Chapter. This does not include interior alterations that do not substantially change the character or intensity of the site.

modified to fully comply to the provisions of this Chapter. No discretionary land use permits shall be issued for any structures, expansions, or new construction on a site that contains nonconforming signs, unless all signs on the site are brought into compliance with this Chapter. This does not include interior alterations that do not substantially change the character or intensity of the site.

• D. Ordinary Maintenance, Painting and/or Repair. Nonconforming signs may only be maintained, painted, and/or repaired (i.e., repairs shall be limited to cosmetic enhancements/refinements but no structural alterations, unless required by the Building Division) in place and may not be removed from their existing location, except for temporary remodeling of the structure to which the sign is attached or termination of the sign. See Subparagraph F. (Structure remodeling), below.

• E. Change of Business Ownership. Upon a change of ownership, the new owner/lessee of a nonconforming sign may change a name(s) on the sign so long as there is no change in the structure or configuration of the sign.

• F. Structure Remodeling. Nonconforming signs may be removed for remodeling the structure to which the sign is attached and shall be replaced immediately after the remodeling is completed. No alteration of the sign channel letters, cabinet or sign structure is allowed.

See Article 7 (Administration) Chapter 18.150 (Permit Modifications and Revocations) for Revocation Procedures.

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Publication, Apr 2026

SANTA CLARA CODE