Title 18 — DEVELOPMENT CODE

Chapter 18.54 — SIGNS

Truckee Zoning Code · 2026-06 edition · ingested 2026-07-07 · Truckee

Sections:

18.54.010 - Purpose of Chapter 18.54.020 - Applicability 18.54.030 - Sign Plan Review Requirements 18.54.040 - Comprehensive Sign Program Requirements

  • 18.54.050 - Temporary Sign Permit Requirements 18.54.060 - Prohibited Signs

  • 18.54.070 - General Requirements for All Signs 18.54.080 - Standards for Specific Types of Permanent Signs 18.54.090 - Sign Requirements for Specific Land Uses 18.54.100 - Nonconforming or Abandoned Signs

18.54.010 - Purpose of Chapter

This Chapter provides minimum standards to safeguard life, health, property and public welfare, and to preserve the unique character of the Town by regulating the size, height, design, quality of materials, construction, location, lighting and maintenance of signs and sign structures. These standards are intended to:

  • A. Provide a reasonable and comprehensive system of sign controls;

  • B. Encourage signs that are well-designed and pleasing in appearance by providing incentive and latitude for variety, good design relationship, spacing and location;

  • C. Encourage a desirable Town character with a minimum of clutter, while recognizing the need for signs as a major form of communication;

  • D. Provide for fair and equal treatment of sign users;

  • E. Provide for maximum public convenience by properly directing people to various activities and businesses; and

  • F. Promote public safety by providing that official traffic regulation devices be easily visible and free from nearby visual obstructions, including blinking signs, excessive number of signs, or signs that in any way resemble official signs.

18.54.020 – Applicability

All signs shall comply with the limitations on the type, number, area, location and lighting of signs, and other requirements of this Section, and all applicable provisions of this Chapter.

  • A. The standards of this Chapter shall apply to signs in Commercial (CN, CG, CH, CS, CMU, NMU, DMU, DC,), Manufacturing (M, DM), and Special Purpose (OS, RC, REC, PF, RTC) zoning districts, unless otherwise identified within this Chapter or within Chapter 18.58 (Standards for Specific Land Uses). Only signs authorized by this Chapter shall be allowed unless otherwise expressly provided in this Chapter.

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  • B. The Sign Design Guidelines (Chapter 18.56) shall be used during review of the project land use permit application to ensure that signs are well designed, compatible with the existing and future land uses and signs in the vicinity, and do not detract from the overall visual quality of the Town.

  • C. Permanent signs that are part of a project that requires discretionary land use permits within the Historic Preservation (-HP) overlay district shall be subject to Historic Design Review and the recommendations made to the review authority in accordance with Chapter 18.77.

  • D. Standalone permanent signs within the Historic Preservation (-HP) overlay district that do not require additional discretionary land use permits shall not be subject to Historic Design Review but shall comply with the standards of this Chapter and the standards of Chapter 18.77 (Historic Design Review).

  • E. Definitions and graphics for sign types and other terms used in this Chapter are found in Chapter 18.220 (Definitions, Glossary).

18.54.030 - Sign Plan Review Requirements

  • A. Sign Plan review required. To ensure compliance with the requirements of this Chapter, Sign Plan review and approval shall be required before any permanent sign is erected, moved, altered or reconstructed. Sign Plan review shall be initiated when a completed application is submitted to the Department. Approval of a Sign Plan shall be required for all new projects. For multiple tenant sites/centers, the applicant may choose to request approval of a Comprehensive Sign Program (Section 18.54.040) instead of a Sign Plan. For all projects that require a discretionary land use permit, submittal and review of a Sign Plan application concurrent with the primary land use application is encouraged to ensure thoughtful incorporation of sign design and sign locations in the overall design. If a discretionary permit is not required, the Sign Plan application shall be reviewed and approved prior to Zoning Clearance issuance. For projects that require an administrative/ministerial land use permit, the Sign Plan application may be submitted and approved in conjunction with the building permit, and Sign Plan fees shall be waived.

  • B. Approval of Sign Plan. The review authority shall approve a Sign Plan application, with or without conditions, only if all of the following findings are made:

    1. The proposed sign is for a use that is allowed by Article II (Zoning Districts) and complies with all applicable provisions of this Chapter, the Development Code, the Municipal Code, the Public Improvements and Engineering Standards, any applicable Specific Plan or Master Plan, and any applicable Comprehensive Sign Program; and

    2. The proposed sign is consistent with the design guidelines and historic design guidelines (for signs in the -HP district), achieves the overall design objectives of the guidelines, and would not impair the design and architectural integrity and character of the surrounding neighborhood.

    3. Deviations. The review authority will approve deviations to the sign standards of this Chapter, including sign area, number of signs, location, height, and/or material, only if all of the following findings below are made in addition to the two findings above:

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  • a. The Sign Plan application is for a single sign or single business. (For multiplebusiness sites/centers, refer to Section 18.54.040 for Comprehensive Sign Program Requirements);

  • b. The requested deviation is based on site-specific conditions or design features, including business entry location, site visibility, architectural style, building mass and/or historic resource compatibility, that are unique to the applicable property;

  • c. The requested deviation is the minimum necessary to create a superior Sign Plan with the highest quality signs that are well-integrated with the overall building/project and are compatible with existing and future land uses in the vicinity; and

  • d. If the property is located within the Historic Preservation (-HP) overlay district, deviations to the sign standards of this Chapter shall be subject to Historic Design Review in accordance with Chapter 18.77.

  • C. Sign Plan time limits and extensions. Unless conditions of approval establish a different time limit, a Sign Plan not exercised within one year of the date of approval shall be deemed expired. The review authority may grant one-time extension of up to one year from the original expiration date if the findings in Section 18.54.030.B can still be made. A Sign Plan reviewed and approved concurrently with a discretionary land use application shall be valid until expiration of the discretionary land use permit.

  • D. Exemptions from Sign Plan review. Sign Plan review shall not be required for the following signs. Exempt signs shall not be included in the determination of the total allowable number of signs or total allowable sign area for a site. Any deviations from the limitations specified herein shall require Sign Plan review and approval.

1. Permanent signs.

  • a. Official traffic or government signs or legal notices; public utility, public service or railroad signs that aid in safety; and off-site hospital directional signs;

  • b. Signs on licensed commercial vehicles, including trailers and food trucks; provided, however, that vehicles/trailers shall not be used as parked/stationary outdoor display signs;

  • c. Bench and other signs located at Town public transit locations and approved by the Public Works Director; and

  • d. Signs that are consistent with a previously approved Comprehensive Sign Program in accordance with Section 18.54.040.B.4, and Signs that are not visible from any angle to motorists or pedestrians on any public highway, street, alley or sidewalk, private or public parking lot, or public pedestrian plaza, or from any residential property. The applicant shall provide adequate documentation to the satisfaction of the Director to demonstrate the lack of visibility prior to sign installation.

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2. Permanent signs limited by maximum areas. The following signs are exempt from Sign Plan review subject to the following limitations:

  • a. One sign not exceeding two square feet in area per single-family or multifamily unit as required to comply with Truckee Fire Protection District requirements. A maximum of one light source per sign is allowed, including internal illumination (i.e., halo lit) or a fully down-shielded external light fixture. All lighting shall comply with Section 18.54.070.G (Illumination of Signs);

  • b. One sign for each commercial, office and industrial tenant space located near the primary building or business entrance not exceeding two square feet if no other signs are proposed;

  • c. Signs or notices posted in the window that do not exceed one-half square foot in area per sign, and no more than six signs, are allowed per business. Window signs, displayed for any purpose, shall not occupy more than 50 percent of the window area for any single window.

  • d. Government mandated gasoline pump signs provided the signs do not exceed two square feet per pump face with a maximum of 16 square feet, provided the sign location is approved by the review authority;

    • e. Plaques on historical structures and art work made of stone, concrete, bronze, aluminum, or similar permanent material with surface relief that are mounted permanently on the structure. These signs shall not exceed four square feet and six feet in height;

    • f. In addition to the allowed signage for commercial businesses, restaurants shall be permitted to have one additional sign, not exceeding three square feet and mounted to the building façade in a display box in close proximity to the restaurant entrance. The display box shall be wood-framed or of another natural material or metal that is compatible with the building. The review authority may approve an alternative location or display method;

    • g. Official flags of a nation, the State of California and other states of the Nation, municipalities and fraternal or religious organizations, and the nationally recognized POW/MIA flag, provided that the pole height shall not exceed 25 feet and the length of the flag shall be not more than 1/4 of the height of the pole. Larger flags may be approved subject to approval by the review authority;

    3. Temporary Signs. Temporary signs are not subject to Sign Plan review; however, they shall comply with the Temporary Sign Permit requirements of Section 18.54.050.

18.54.040 - Comprehensive Sign Program Requirements

  • A. Purpose. The purpose of a Comprehensive Sign Program is to integrate a project’s signs with the structure’s design into a unified architectural statement by establishing a visual rhythm for signage. Predictability of sign locations and sizes is encouraged; however, the Comprehensive Sign Program should be designed to promote individual business expression and should not

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encourage uniformity and monotony. A Comprehensive Sign Program provides a means for the flexible application of sign regulations for multi-tenant projects based on site-specific conditions and design features including architectural style, building mass and site visibility and to achieve, not circumvent, the intent of this Chapter.

  • B. Applicability.

    1. New development . New multiple tenant sites/centers may request approval of a Comprehensive Sign Program instead of a Sign Plan. If an applicant for a multi-tenant projects that requires a discretionary land use permit requests approval of a Comprehensive Sign Program instead of a Sign Plan, a Comprehensive Sign Program application may be submitted and reviewed concurrent with the primary land use application. If a discretionary permit is not required, the Comprehensive Sign Program application shall be reviewed and approved prior to Zoning Clearance issuance.

    2. Existing development. Existing multi-tenant developments may request approval of a Comprehensive Sign Program.

    3. Modification of standards. In approving a Comprehensive Sign Program, the review authority may allow modifications to the standards of this Chapter for the purpose of achieving the highest quality signs that are compatible with the character of the project's design theme and that are well-integrated with the overall scale of the proposed development. The standards for signs provided in this Chapter, along with the Sign Design Guidelines (Chapter 18.56), shall serve as a reference for the review and approval of a Comprehensive Sign Program.

    4. Future Sign Plan exemption. Once a Comprehensive Sign Program is approved for a particular development, all future signs within the development shall be exempt from Sign Plan review, unless specified by the conditions of approval. The signs shall be reviewed for compliance with the approved Comprehensive Sign Program as part of the building permit for the sign.

  • C. Application requirements. The following information is required for submittal of a Comprehensive Sign Program:

    1. Plans, to scale, to include the following:

      • a. Sign details indicating maximum sign area, dimensions , colors, allowed materials, locations (including alternative options) and method of illumination for all signs;

      • b. Site plan indicating the location of all existing and proposed signs with sign area dimensions;

      • c. Building elevation(s) with sign locations depicted with dimensions; and

      • d. A summary table showing the complete sign program and total square foot area of all signs.

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  1. A statement explaining how revisions/modifications/replacement of tenant signs will be carried out to limit the possibility of holes being left in the structure's exterior by mounting brackets, electrical connections or similar items; and

  2. Supplemental information required by the Director.

  • D. Lessees to be informed of comprehensive sign program. Lessees within developments governed by an approved Comprehensive Sign Program shall be made aware of the Program in their lease and their responsibility to follow the approved Comprehensive Sign Program.

  • E. Findings. In approving an application for a Comprehensive Sign Program, the review authority shall make the following findings in addition to those required for the land use permit:

    1. The Comprehensive Sign Program complies with the standards of this Chapter, except that flexibility is allowed with regard to sign area, number, location and/or height to the extent that the Comprehensive Sign Program will enhance the overall development and will more fully accomplish the intent of this Chapter;

    2. The signs enhance the overall development, are in harmony with, and are visually related to other signs included in the Comprehensive Sign Program and to the structure and/or developments they identify, and to surrounding development;

    3. The Comprehensive Sign Program discourages uniformity and monotony in design and placement of signs and encourages individual business expression; and

    4. The Comprehensive Sign Program accommodates future revisions which may be required due to changes in use or tenants.

  • F. Revisions to Comprehensive Sign Programs. Revisions to a Comprehensive Sign Program may be approved by the Director if it is determined that the revision is minor and that the intent of the original approval, and any conditions attached thereto, are not affected. For revisions that would substantially deviate from the original approval, the Director may require that a modification to the land use permit application be filed.

18.54.050 – Temporary Sign Permit Requirements

  • A. Temporary Sign Permit review required. To ensure compliance with the requirements of this Chapter, Temporary Sign Permit review and approval by the Director shall be required before any temporary sign is installed or displayed. Temporary Sign Permit review shall be initiated when a completed application is submitted to the Department. A Temporary Sign Permit is intended to be a simplified version of a Sign Plan and only applies to temporary signs.

  • B. Approval of a Temporary Sign Permit. The Director shall approve a Temporary Sign Permit application, with or without conditions, only if the sign complies with all applicable provisions of this Chapter, the Development Code, the Municipal Code, the Public Improvements and Engineering Standards, any applicable Specific Plan or Master Plan, and any applicable Comprehensive Sign Program; and

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C. Standards for Temporary Signs.

  1. Location. Temporary Signs shall be located on the private property of the business, unless otherwise allowed in this Chapter. Temporary signs shall not be attached to utility poles, streetlights, trees, bridges or other public property. Signs shall not encroach into required off-street parking areas and may not be arranged so as to create site distance conflicts or other traffic hazards.

  2. Lighting. Illumination of temporary signs is prohibited. The exception is if a temporary sign is located such that it is illuminated by an existing, legal, conforming light source.

  3. Maintenance. Signs shall be maintained in a neat, orderly fashion so as not to constitute an unsightly appearance or a public nuisance. Signs shall be made of durable, weatherresistant materials, and be professional in appearance.

  4. Safety. Signs shall be located on private property and shall not interfere with vehicular and pedestrian visibility.

D. Standards for Temporary Sign Permits by type.

  1. One portable A-frame sign or sandwich board sign and/or temporary banner sign is allowed per business frontage with Temporary Sign Permit approval for a maximum of 90 days per calendar year. Any combination of temporary signs may be displayed for a maximum of 90 days per calendar year (i.e. one A-frame sign can be put out for 40 days and one banner for 50 days, even if the days overlap). A portable sign is any sign or advertising device that rests on the ground and is not designed to be permanently attached to a building or permanently anchored to the ground. A temporary banner sign is affixed to a window or wall. The use of small, pedestrian-oriented portable A-frame or sandwich board signs and/or temporary banner signs is allowed, subject to the following requirements. Portable A-frame signs and temporary banner signs can be approved on an annual basis, provided the applicant submits a plan for the display of all temporary signs for the calendar year, including materials, location, and dates planned for display. The Temporary Sign Permit is valid for the calendar year in which it is approved, expiring on December 31. Other than minor date changes, modifications to the approved plan shall require the submittal of a new Temporary Sign Permit application and fee. Requirements for a portable A-frame sign or sandwich board sign and/or temporary banner signs:

    • a. Maximum size. The total area for temporary signs, including both portable signs and temporary banner signs, shall not exceed 25 square feet.

      • i. Portable signs shall have a maximum sign area of eight square feet per side.

      • ii. Temporary banner signs shall have a maximum sign area of 25 square feet.

    • b. Maximum height:

      • i. Portable signs shall have a maximum height of four feet.

      • ii. Temporary banner signs shall be located below the eave or 20 feet from the sidewalk surface, whichever is less.

    • c. Portable A-frame signs shall be located on private property, out of the public rightof-way, out of the pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular travel way, out of parking spaces,

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and shall not impede traffic visibility. A minimum access width of four feet shall be maintained along all sidewalks and building entrances accessible to the public, unless the Town Engineer requires additional minimum access width for high-use pedestrian areas. 

  - d. Portable signs shall be utilized only during the regular hours of operation of the business and shall be removed during nonbusiness hours. 

  - e. Portable signs shall be maintained in a neat, orderly fashion so as not to constitute an unsightly appearance or a public nuisance. Signs should be constructed of durable, weather-resistant materials and be professional in appearance; natural materials or metal are required; black background chalkboard signs using erasable chalk is allowed for the face of the portable A-frame sign.

  1. For approved subdivisions of residential lots and/or units that are for purchase, one temporary two-sided ground-mounted sign is allowed. The sign shall be located within the project and shall not exceed 32 square feet for each side and 10 feet in height;

    • a. For vacant lot subdivisions, the sign may be displayed during the two years following Final Map recordation, or until 100 percent of the lots have been sold, whichever occurs first; and

    • b. For developments with for-purchase residential units, including single-family residences, condominiums and townhomes, signs may be displayed during construction and for a period of two years following the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, or until 100 percent of the units have been sold, whichever occurs first.

  • E. Exemptions from Temporary Sign Permit review. Temporary Sign Permit review shall not be required for the following sites limited by size and period of display:

    1. For commercial, office, and industrial uses, 30 days prior to and 30 days after a new business opening, one 25 square foot banner is allowed to be displayed on the business frontage from which there is direct customer access. Written verification of the proposed banner dates is required. One sign is allowed per business. If more than one business occupies a tenant space, the total signage allowed is 25 square feet, but each business may have its own banner. Signs shall not cover windows or doors, shall not be mounted on railings, and shall be mounted to ensure an orderly appearance.

    2. Approved banner locations at the Gateway Shopping Center, Ace Mountain Hardware, Citizens Bank Plaza, the Truckee Depot, Truckee Donner Recreation and Park District Community Recreation Center, Town Hall, the Town of Truckee Corporation Yard on Stevens Lane, and Raley’s/Soaring Ranch. Temporary signs at these locations shall be allowed in compliance with the following:

      • a. Time limits. Three weeks prior to a designated civic event, banners may be displayed at the designated locations. The Director shall review and approve events to determine if they are a designated civic event. A civic event is sponsored by a public agency, school, church, civic-fraternal organization, or similar noncommercial organization in which the entire community is invited to attend. The sign shall be removed within two days following the approved event.

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  • c. Other locations may be approved by the Director for signs posted for community events which are determined by Town Council to be of community importance.

  • d. Maximum sign area shall not exceed 50 square feet.

  • e. Location: The banner locations shall be located on private property and shall not impeded vehicle visibility. The Community Development Director shall review and approve the siting of the banner location.

  • f. Materials: The mounting posts shall be made of wood or a natural material and shall be reviewed and approved by the Community Development Director.

  • d. The maximum number of signs at each location shall be as follows: 

    - (1) Gateway Shopping Center: One sign maximum; 

- (2) Ace Mountain Hardware: One sign maximum; 

- (3) Citizens Bank Plaza: One sign maximum; 

- (4) Truckee Depot: Three signs maximum; 

- (5) Truckee Donner Recreation and Park District Community Recreation Center: One sign maximum; 

- (6) Town Hall: One sign maximum; 

- (7) Town of Truckee Corporation Yard on Stevens Lane: One sign maximum. 

- (8) Raley’s/Soaring Ranch: One sign maximum.

  1. Construction sites. One sign at a construction site with an active building permit or building permits is permitted.

    • a. Location requirements. On private property, out of the public right-of-way and shall not impede vehicular and pedestrian visibility.

    • b. Size requirements. Each sign shall not to exceed a cumulative size of 20 square feet with a maximum height of 10 feet from natural grade.

    • b. Time limit. Signs shall be removed upon occupancy of the site.

  2. Vacant parcels with an approved land use permit . One sign per street frontage for each project with an approved land use permit on vacant property is permitted.

    • a. Location requirements. On private property, out of the public right-of-way and shall not impede vehicular and pedestrian visibility.

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  • b. Size requirements. Each sign shall be limited to a maximum of 32 square feet or 0.5 sf per lineal foot of the parcel frontage, whichever is less, and 10 feet in height from natural grade

  • c. Time Limits. Signs shall be removed upon occupancy of the site.

  1. Properties for sale or for rent. For properties that are for sale or for rent, additional signage is allowed on the property, as follows:

    • a. Single-family dwellings. For single-family dwellings or single-family properties in an approved subdivision that are for sale or for rent, one sign per street frontage not to exceed four square feet in area and ten feet in height is allowed. In addition, during temporary “open houses” when a sales/leasing agent or owner is present at the site and the house is opened for viewing, one sign, with a maximum size of eight square feet per sign face is allowed on the property. The sign shall be a maximum eight square feet in size and 10 feet in height. The sign shall be removed immediately upon the close of the open house each day;

    • b. Multifamily dwellings. For multifamily dwellings that are for sale or for rent, one sign per street frontage not to exceed 32 square feet and 10 feet in height;

    • c. Individual commercial, office, and industrial buildings. For individual commercial, office and industrial properties not located in a commercial center or industrial/business park that are for sale or for rent, one sign per street frontage not to exceed 32 square feet and 10 feet in height;

  • d. Vacant commercial, office, and industrial properties without a land use permit. For for-sale or for-lease vacant commercial, office, and industrial properties that do not have an approved land use permit, one sign per street frontage not to exceed 32 square feet and 10 feet in height;

    • e. Individual tenant spaces within multi-tenant non-residential buildings. Individual tenant spaces within multi-tenant commercial centers, office structures and industrial subdivisions offered for sale, rent or lease, one sign per street frontage not to exceed 16 square feet and 10 feet in height. In addition, one sign for each tenant space available not to exceed six square feet to be located at the individual tenant space for rent or lease.

    • f. Location requirements. Signs shall be located on private property and shall not impede vehicular and pedestrian visibility. Signs shall not be located on fences. Signs shall be removed upon close of escrow on for-sale properties or upon execution of lease on for-lease or for-rent properties.

  1. Signs during election periods. During town, state, or national elections, additional ground-mounted temporary signage shall be permitted. For temporary A-frame signs and banners, see Section 18.54.050.D.2 (Standards for temporary sign permits by type).

    • a. Time limits . 60 days prior to a town, state, or national election, temporary signage may be posted. 14 days following the election, the signs shall be removed.

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  • b. Maximum size. Ground-mounted signs shall not exceed eight square feet on each side (16 square feet total) for each property in residential zones or 16 square feet on each side (32 square feet total) for each property in non-residential zones.

  • c. Maximum height. Signs shall not exceed three feet in height.

  • d. Location requirements. Signs may be located within the Town right-of-way, but shall not create sight distance conflicts or other safety hazards for motorists, bicycles or pedestrians. Signs which are determined by the Town Engineer to create sight distance conflicts or other safety hazards may be immediately removed by the Town Engineer or his/her designee. Signs shall not be located on the inside of a roundabout or within publicly landscaped areas.

  • e. Signs within the Town right-of-way adjacent to residential properties shall only be posted upon approval by the adjoining property owner and shall count toward the 16 square feet maximum sign area for that property. At intersections, signs in the Town right-of-way are exempt from this standard.

7 . Signs in Residential Zones (RL, RM, DRL, DRM, and DRH).

  • a. Portable two-sided A-frame or wire-frame signs are allowed on intersections in the public right-of-way within residential zoning districts on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM within one mile of a temporary active real estate open house. Temporary active real estate open houses are when a sales/leasing agent or owner is present at the site and the house is opened for viewing. Signs shall be removed immediately upon the close of the open house each day. No additions such as balloons, lights, or lights shall be allowed on these signs.

    • (1) Maximum size: Eight square feet on each side.

    • (2) Maximum height : Four feet.

    • (3) Location requirements : May be located in the public right-of-way, but shall be located out of the paved surface and out of the vehicle, pedestrian, or bicycle travel way. The signs shall not be allowed in any roundabout.

    • (4) Number of signs: No more than two signs are allowed at each intersection.

    • (5) Materials: Reflective material is prohibited.

  • b. One portable two-sided A-frame sign per driveway entrance is allowed for 24 hours after a residential asphalt driveway is paved or sealed.

18.54.060 - Prohibited Signs

The following signs are inconsistent with the purposes and standards of this Chapter and are, therefore, prohibited:

  • A. A sign not in compliance with the provisions of this Chapter;

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  • B. A sign that is in the public right-of-way including signs mounted or placed on or in street trees, roundabouts, traffic control devices and/or utility poles, that is not in compliance with the provisions of this Chapter;

  • C. Abandoned signs and sign structures (see also Section 18.54.100 (Nonconforming or Abandoned Signs) and signs that are determined by the Director to be deteriorating from inadequate maintenance, evidenced by faded or otherwise unreadable copy, peeling paint, missing parts or other similar conditions;

  • D. Animated, moving, flashing, blinking, reflecting, revolving or other similar signs, except barber poles;

  • E. Banners, streamers and pennants, except as specifically allowed by the provisions of Section 18.54.050 (Temporary Sign Permit Requirements);

  • F. Billboard signs;

  • G. Bench signs, except as provided in Section 18.54.030.D (Exemptions from Sign Plan Review);

  • H. Cabinet signs that are made of or partly made of plastic, vinyl, fake glass, or other synthetic material, except minor use of synthetic material for lettering to protect internal wiring, and may be internally illuminated;

  • I. Changeable copy signs, except as approved for service stations by the review authority, and except for black background chalkboard signs using erasable chalk;

  • J. Electronic reader board signs;

  • K. Flags, unless otherwise exempted by state or federal law as outlined in Section 18.54.030.D.2.g;

  • L. Home occupation signs, except day care signs allowed by this section;

  • M. Inflated signs, balloons and inflatable figures;

  • N. Mobile billboards;

  • O. Off-site signs, except those off-site signs that are exempt per Section 18.54.030.D or otherwise specifically allowed by this Chapter;

  • P. Obscene or offensive signs containing statements, words or pictures of an obscene, indecent or immoral character which appeal to the prurient interest in sex, or which are patently offensive and do not have serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value;

  • Q. Portable freestanding signs, including sandwich board signs and A-frame signs, except as specifically allowed by the provisions of Section 18.54.050 (Temporary Sign Permit Requirements);

  • R.

  • Roof signs;

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  • S. Vinyl signs. Includes vinyl lettering except lettering applied to windows. Does not include temporary signs;

  • T. Searchlights other than those used by government agencies;

  • U. Signs erected in a manner that a portion of its surface or supports will interfere in any way with the free use of a fire escape, exit or standpipe or obstruct a required ventilator, door, stairway or window above the first story;

  • V. Signs emitting audible sounds, odors or visible matter;

  • W. Signs attached to, suspended from, supported by, or otherwise affixed to any vehicle or trailer located on the site that increases the sign area over that which is otherwise allowed by this Chapter. Signs painted directly on, applied with vinyl lettering, or otherwise affixed to a vehicle that is regularly used in the business to which the signs pertain may be parked on the site, but shall not be used in a manner which creates onsite signage in addition to that which is otherwise allowed by this Chapter. All signs on privately owned vehicles shall conform to the signage requirements of the California Vehicle Code;

  • X. Signs attached to, suspended from, supported by, hanging on, or otherwise affixed to another sign; and

  • Y. Signs on umbrellas.

18.54.070 - General Requirements for All Signs

  • A. Sign maintenance. Signs and supporting hardware, including temporary signs, shall be maintained in good repair and functioning properly at all times. Repairs to signs shall be of equal or better in quality of materials and design as the original sign. Signs which are not properly maintained and are dilapidated shall be deemed to be a public nuisance.

When existing signs are removed or replaced, all brackets, poles and other supports that are no longer required shall be removed. Unpainted areas shall be painted to match the adjacent portion of the building or sign support structure.

  • B. Measurement of sign area.

    1. The sign area shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of the sign face or individually mounted letters/logos on a building wall, including all writing, logo, representation, emblem, graphics or other display within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight perimeter lines, or within a single circle. For irregularly-shaped sign faces such as triangles, ovals, hexagons, etc., the review authority may consider alternative methods of calculating the precise area of the sign face if the sign area calculation can be accurately verified by staff. (See Figure 3-28.)

    2. Supporting framework or bracing that is clearly incidental to the display itself shall not be computed as sign area.

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  1. Double-faced (back-to-back) freestanding signs, projecting signs and hanging signs shall be considered as a single sign face for purposes of calculating allowable sign area only if the distance between each sign face does not exceed two feet.

  2. Where a sign consists of one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture or statue-like trademarks), the sign area shall be measured as their maximum projection upon a vertical plane.

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FIGURE 3-28

MEASUREMENT OF SIGN AREA

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FIGURE 3-29 MEASUREMENT OF SIGN HEIGHT

  • C. Sign area limitations. As determined by sign type in Section18.54.080.

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  • D. Sign location. Unless otherwise stated within this Chapter, signs shall be located only on business frontages with direct customer access.

  • E. Sign height limitations. All signs shall comply with the height limitations of this Section.

  • F. Sign design.

    1. Materials. Signs shall be constructed of natural materials, including redwood, cedar or similar kinds of wood, and/or raw/rustic metal. Painted engineered products and materials intended to imitate or appear like natural materials are also allowed. Glossy and/or reflective surfaces are prohibited.
  1. Three-dimensional or custom-shaped signs. Three-dimensional features, such as carved wood, individually mounted letters, laser-cut metal, custom-shaped sign edges, framing etc. shall be incorporated.

  • G. Illumination of signs. The artificial illumination of signs, either from an internal or external source, shall be designed to eliminate negative impacts on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. The following standards apply to all illuminated signs:

    1. External light source shall be directed and shielded to limit direct illumination of any object other than the sign. Uplighting of any sign shall be prohibited;

    2. The light from an illuminated sign shall not be of an intensity or brightness that will interfere with the reasonable enjoyment of residential properties in direct visual proximity to the sign;

    3. Lights for signs shall have a color temperature of 3,000K or less;

    4. Signs shall not have blinking, flashing or fluttering lights or other illuminating devices that have a changing light intensity, brightness or color;

    5. Colored lights shall not be used at a location or in a manner so as to be confused or construed as traffic control devices;

    6. Neither the direct nor reflected light from primary light sources shall create a hazard to operators of motor vehicles;

    7. Reflective-type bulbs and incandescent lamps that exceed 15 watts shall not be used on the exterior surface of signs so as to expose the face of the bulb or lamp to a public rightof-way or adjacent property;

    8. Light sources shall utilize energy-efficient fixtures to the greatest extent possible;

    9. Cabinet (can or box) signs that are internally-illuminated shall have opaque backgrounds so that when the sign is illuminated, only the words or logos on the sign are lighted. The cutout lettering/logo may be protected with a synthetic material, but shall not occupy more than 25% of the face of the sign. Vinyl or synthetic faces for channel letter signs are not permitted. Internal lighting shall be low-wattage to produce a soft glow and the light source shall not be visible from public view;

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  1. Halo-lit signs shall be of a low intensity to prevent light glare. Colored lighting within a halo-lit sign is discouraged. Lighting shall be low-wattage to produce a soft glow and the light source shall not be visible from public view. The light shall not trespass beyond the sign face; and

  2. Metal framing for the sign shall not be visible from the public view.

  • H. Reduction of allowable sign area. A neon sign shall be restricted to 50 percent of the total area allowed for the sign type (e.g., ground-mounted, monument, wall, projecting, etc.). The maximum area allowed for any sign may be reduced by the review authority to ensure compliance with the Sign Design Guidelines (Chapter 18.56) and the Historic Preservation Design Guidelines (Chapter 18.26).

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FIGURE 3-30 INTERNALLY ILLUMINATED CABINET SIGN AND HALO-LIT SIGN EXAMPLES

18.54.080 - Standards for Specific Types of Permanent Signs

  • A. Awning signs.

    1. Location requirements. Signs on awnings shall only be located on ground floor building frontages where customers have direct access, including those fronting a parking lot or pedestrian way.

    2. Maximum number. Awning signs may replace the use of a wall sign or a projecting sign. One per business frontage where customers have direct access.

    3. Maximum size: Sign shall be 20% of awning surface or 25 square feet, whichever is less.

    4. Lighting requirements: No lighting allowed.

  • B. Ground-mounted signs.

    1. Location requirements:

      • a. Signs are allowed only for frontages adjoining and with direct access off a public street.

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  • b. There shall be a minimum of 75 feet between two ground-mounted signs on adjoining sites to ensure adequate visibility for all signs. The Director may waive this requirement in situations where its enactment would be impractical due to the locations of existing signs on adjacent properties.

Signs shall be set back at least two feet from property lines and shall not project over public property, vehicular easements or rights-of-way. Signs shall not obstruct traffic safety sight areas.

  1. Maximum number:

    • a. Single-tenant sites: One per tenant space.

    • b. Multi-tenant sites: One per street frontage from which customers have direct vehicle access.

  2. Maximum size:

    • a. Single-tenant sites: 10 square feet on each side.

    • b. Multi-tenant sites: 30 square feet on each side, with a maximum of five spaces for individual signs.

  3. Maximum height: Eight feet.

  4. Lighting requirements:

    • a. Downtown Study Area

      • (1) Single-tenant sites: No lighting allowed

      • (2) Multi-tenant sites: Night sky compliant lighting allowed. If noninternal lighting is used, only two light fixtures are allowed per sign face.

    • b. Outside the Downtown Study Area: Night sky compliant lighting allowed. If noninternal lighting is used only two light fixtures are allowed per sign face.

  5. Landscaping requirements: Landscaping shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign. For example, 30 square feet of sign area shall require 60 square feet of landscaped area. Alternative onsite locations to provide the required landscaping may be approved at the discretion of the review authority.

  • C. Hanging signs.

    1. Hanging signs are attached below a canopy or roof eave and are only permitted in-lieu of allowed wall signs and/or projecting signs. If oriented parallel to a building façade, hanging signs may be substituted for allowed wall signs and shall comply with all other wall sign standards. If oriented perpendicular to a building façade, hanging signs may be substituted for allowed projecting signs and shall comply with all other projecting sign

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standards, except that the maximum projection from the building façade shall not apply to hanging signs.

  1. Hanging signs which are placed over areas used by pedestrians shall be located so that the lowest edge of any part of the sign or any related element is at least eight feet above the ground or walkway surface used by pedestrians.

  • D. Projecting signs. Projecting signs are perpendicular to a building wall, extend over areas used by pedestrians, and are oriented toward pedestrians.

    1. Location requirements: Close to the customer entrance, oriented to pedestrians. The sign shall not project from the building face more than one-half the width of an underlying sidewalk, and in no case more than 48 inches, including the sign bracket.

    2. Maximum number of signs: One per building entrance from which customers have direct access.

    3. Maximum size: Eight square feet maximum on each side.

    4. Maximum height: 12 ft. height maximum, with eight foot clearance above the ground or walkway surface used by pedestrians.

    5. Lighting requirements: Internal lighting or stationary neon signs. If neon lights are used, only one neon sign is allowed for each building, even if the building has multiple tenants.

  • E. Signs at the entrances of subdivisions . Refer to Section 18.54.040.D.2 for information regarding temporary signage at the entrances of subdivisions.

    1. Location requirements: The signs shall be located at the major entrances of the subdivision, out of the public right-of-way and shall not impede vehicular and pedestrian visibility.

    2. Maximum number of signs: One monument sign is permitted per major entrance to the subdivision.

    3. Maximum size: 25 square feet. Signs shall not exceed eight feet in height or 12 feet in width.

    4. Maximum height requirements: Eight feet.

    5. Lighting requirements: Night sky compliant lighting. If non-internal lighting is used, a maximum of two light fixtures are allowed. The light shall wash onto the sign and not spill beyond.

    6. Landscaping: Landscaping shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign. For example, 30 square feet of sign area shall require 60 square feet of landscaped area. Landscaping shall incorporate native trees, shrubs and groundcover, and the use of annual or perennial flower beds is encouraged.

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The sign and any supporting or associated structures should portray a rural character. The use of wood and native rock is encouraged.

  • F. Temporary signs. Refer to Section 18.54.050 (Temporary Sign Permit Requirements).

  • G. Wall signs.

    1. Location requirements:

      • a. Signs shall be located only on building frontages where customers have direct access unless specifically approved by the review authority.

      • b. Signs shall be located close to the customer entrance.

      • c. Signs shall not project from the surface upon which they are attached more than required for construction purposes and in no case more than 12 inches.

  • d. Signs shall not project above the edge of the roof of a structure. 

    - e. Signs may be located on the parapet or canopy. 

- f. Signs shall not be placed to obstruct any portion of a window. 

- g. In the Downtown Study Area, buildings on corner parcels with two walls along public streets with direct access off of only one of the public streets one additional wall sign is allowed on the building frontage that does not have direct customer access. Corner parcels are parcels that are located at the intersection of two public roads

    1. Maximum number of signs: One wall sign per door from which customers have direct access.

    2. Maximum size requirements:

      • a. 1.0 square feet of sign area per lineal feet of business frontage where there is direct customer access.

      • b. In the Downtown Study Area, the one additional sign allowed under Section 18.54.080.G.1.e. shall have a maximum size of 0.5 square feet of sign area per lineal feet of building frontage where the business occupies.

    3. Maximum height requirement: Below eave or 20 feet from the sidewalk surface, whichever is less.

    4. Lighting requirements: Night sky compliant lighting is allowed. If non-internal lighting is used, a maximum of two light fixtures is permitted for the first 15 lineal feet of wall signage. Signs that have a horizontal dimension greater than 15 lineal feet may have one additional non-internal light fixture. Bar lights, which have a linear light source, shall not be permitted. If additional lighting is desired, internal sign lighting is encouraged. The horizontal dimension of the sign shall be used to measure the lineal feet.

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FIGURE 3-31 EXAMPLE OF UNPERMITTED BAR LIGHTS

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FIGURE 3-32 EXAMPLE OF PERMITTED LIGHTS FOR WALL SIGNS

  • H. Window signs. Refer to Section 18.54.050.D.1 for temporary signs.

    1. Signs shall be allowed only on windows located on the ground level and second level.

    2. Signs may be permanently painted or mounted on the interior or exterior of windows and doors.

    3. Maximum size requirements:

      • a. Signs shall not occupy more than 50 percent of the window area of any one window including permanent and temporary signs.

      • b. All signs shall not occupy more than 15 percent of the window area on the building frontage where customers have direct access, unless the building does not have any wall signs. If the building does not have any wall signs, all signs shall not occupy more than 25 percent of the all the window area of the building frontage where customers have direct access.

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  1. Lighting requirements: No lighting allowed other than stationary neon lights. If neon lights are used, only one neon light is allowed for each building, even if the building has multiple tenants.

18.54.090 - Sign Requirements for Specific Land Uses

This section recognizes that there are uses that may require specific signage requirements that are not addressed elsewhere in this chapter. Unless otherwise stated within this section, the sign requirements for the specific uses shall be used. All other uses will be required to meet the standards of Section 18.54.080.

  • A. Group day care homes, bed and breakfasts, boarding/rooming houses, fraternity/sorority houses, and churches/places of worship in Residential Zoning Districts (RR, RL, RM, DRL, DRM, and DRH).

    1. Location requirements:

      • a. 10 feet minimum from the front property line, five feet from the side property line.

      • b. The sign shall be out of the public right-of-way and shall not impede vehicular and pedestrian visibility.

    2. Maximum number of signs: One wall sign or one ground-mounted sign per building frontage from which customers have direct access.

    3. Maximum size: 12 square feet maximum per sign.

    4. Maximum height: Below eave of roof for wall signs or six feet for ground-mounted signs.

    5. Lighting requirements: Night sky compliant lighting. If non-internal lighting is used, a maximum one night sky compliant non-internal light fixtures or head is allowed.

    6. Landscaping: Landscaping is required for ground-mounted signs. Landscaping shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign. For example, 30 square feet of sign area shall require 60 square feet of landscaped area. Landscaping shall incorporate native trees, shrubs and groundcover, and the use of annual or perennial flower beds is encouraged.

  • B. Small family day care homes in Residential Zoning Districts (RR, RL, RM, DRL, DRM, and DRH).

    1. Sign type: Wall sign.

    2. Location requirements: In close proximity to the door.

    3. Maximum number signs: One per dwelling.

    4. Maximum size: One square foot.

    5. Maximum height: Below eave of roof or 20 feet, whichever is less.

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  1. Lighting requirements: Night sky compliant lighting. If non-internal lighting is used, a maximum one night sky compliant non-internal light fixtures or head is allowed.

  • C. Large family day care homes and facilities in Residential Zoning Districts (RR, RL, RM, DRL, DRM, and DRH).

    1. Location requirements:

      • a. 10 feet minimum from the front property line, five feet from the side property line.

      • b. The sign shall be out of the public right-of-way and shall not impede vehicular and pedestrian visibility.

    2. Maximum number of signs: One wall sign or one ground mounted sign per building frontage from which customers have direct access.

    3. Maximum size: Six square feet per sign.

    4. Maximum height: Below eave of roof for wall signs or six feet for monument signs.

    5. Lighting requirements:

      • a. Wall signs: Night sky compliant lighting. If non-internal lighting is used, a maximum one night sky compliant non-internal light fixtures or head is allowed.

  • b. Ground-mounted signs: Maximum one night sky compliant non-internal light is allowed per sign face.

    1. Landscaping: Landscaping is required for ground-mounted signs. Landscaping shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign. For example, 30 square feet of sign area shall require 60 square feet of landscaped area. Landscaping shall incorporate native trees, shrubs and groundcover, and the use of annual or perennial flower beds is encouraged.

D. Mobile home park, campgrounds in Residential Zoning Districts (RR, RL, RM, DRL, DRM, and DRH).

  1. Location requirements:

    • a. 10 feet minimum from the front property line, five feet from the side property line.

    • b. The sign shall be out of the public right-of-way and shall not impede vehicular and pedestrian visibility.

  2. Maximum number of signs: One wall or monument sign per access drive.

  3. Maximum size: 24 square feet per sign.

  4. Maximum height: Eight feet for both wall and monument signs.

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  1. Lighting requirements:

    • a. Wall signs: Night sky compliant lighting allowed. If non-internal lighting is used only two light fixtures are allowed per wall sign.

    • b. Ground-mounted signs: Maximum one night sky compliant non-internal light is allowed per sign face.

  2. Landscaping: Landscaping is required for ground-mounted signs. Landscaping shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign. For example, 30 square feet of sign area shall require 60 square feet of landscaped area. Landscaping shall incorporate native trees, shrubs and groundcover, and the use of annual or perennial flower beds is encouraged.

E. Service stations.

  1. Location requirements:

    • a. Monument signs:

      • (1) Set back two feet from property lines.

      • (2) Signs shall be out of the public right-of-way and shall not impede vehicular and pedestrian visibility.

    • b. Wall signs:

      • (1) Signs shall be located only on building frontages where customers have direct access unless specifically approved by the review authority.

      • (2) Signs shall not project from the surface upon which they are attached more than required for construction purposes and in case more than 12 inches.

      • (3) Signs shall not project above the edge of the roof of a structure.

      • (4) Signs may be located on the parapet or canopy.

      • (5) Signs shall not be placed to obstruct any portion of a window.

  2. Maximum number of signs:

    • a. One wall sign per building frontage from which customers of have direct access; and

    • b. One monument sign.

  3. Maximum size:

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  • a. Wall Signs: 1.0 square feet of sign area per lineal feet of building frontage on which the sign is proposed. The total of all wall signage for the service station shall not exceed 50 square feet.

  • b. Monument Signs: 30 square feet

  1. Maximum height:

  • a. Wall signs: Twenty feet above sidewalk surface or below eave, whichever is less.

    • b. Monument signs: Eight feet

  1. Lighting requirements:

    • a. Wall signs: Night sky compliant lighting. If non-internal lighting is used, a maximum one night sky compliant non-internal light fixtures or head is allowed.

    • b. Monument signs: Two night sky compliant non-internal light fixtures are allowed per sign/sign face.

  2. Landscaping: Landscaping is required for ground-mounted signs. Landscaping shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign. For example, 30 square feet of sign area shall require 60 square feet of landscaped area. Landscaping shall incorporate native trees, shrubs and groundcover, and the use of annual or perennial flower beds is encouraged.

F. Theaters.

  1. In addition to the signage that is allowed by Section 18.54.070, theater signs shall be required to be consistent with the following:

    • a. The total surface area of theater signs shall not exceed two square feet for each linear foot of building frontage with direct customer access or a total of 200 square feet, whichever is less;

  2. Theaters may also be approved for one additional 20 square foot sign per movie screen. This additional signage shall be required to be within glass-enclosed wall display cases and located on building frontages with direct customer access.

    • a. Where a theater sign is located on an architectural structure which is incorporated into a theater building and which extends more than three feet above the building’s roof line or parapet wall, the sign and the structure on which it is located shall comply with the following additional criteria:

      • (1) The sign and the architectural structure on which it is located shall be integral parts of the architectural style or design of the theater building; and

      • (2) Not more than 25 percent of the architectural structure shall be devoted to the sign.

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18.54.100 - Nonconforming or Abandoned Signs

  • A. Purpose and intent. The requirements of this Section are intended to recognize that the eventual elimination of signs which do not comply with the provisions of this Chapter is as important as the prohibition of new signs that would violate these standards.

  • B. Applicability. The provisions of this Section apply to any permanent or temporary sign which was legally established and maintained in compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws in effect at the time of original installation but which does not now comply with the provisions of this Development Code.

  • C. Annexed areas. Except as otherwise provided in this Section, signs in areas annexed to the Town after the effective date of this Chapter, which do not conform to the provisions of this Chapter, shall be regarded as nonconforming signs.

  • D. Exceptions.

    1. Notwithstanding the requirements of this Section, nonconforming signs listed in the Iconic Signs Inventory adopted by resolution of the Town Council shall be permitted to be in existence so as to preserve and retain the integrity and quality of the sign. Iconic signs are those that have been identified as significant to the community and enhance the character of Truckee, as listed in the Iconic Signs Inventory adopted by Town Council resolution. Iconic signs shall be in compliance with the following requirements:

      • a. No expansion, alteration, or change of copy of iconic signs shall be allowed;

      • b. Iconic signs or their structures involuntarily damaged, demolished, or destroyed, shall not require a cost limit to repair the sign or sign structure. The sign shall be repaired to the same visual appearance of the iconic sign in terms of location, mounting, materials, colors, and copy. Damaged signs shall be repaired within 90 days of the date of the damage or destruction; and

      • c. In the event a business requires alternative signage at the location of an iconic sign, the iconic sign shall not be included in determining compliance with Development Code Section 18.54 (Signs).

    2. If a nonconforming sign has historical significance apart from its main purpose of advertising, but is not listed in the iconic signs inventory, the sign may be granted a Minor Use Permit for continued use in compliance with Chapter 18.76 (Use Permits and Minor Use Permits).

  • E. Change of copy or continued use. A change of copy or the continued use of a nonconforming sign or sign structure is allowed provided the following criteria are met:

    1. No expansion or alterations, other than change of copy is allowed. The sign must remain in the same footprint and no structural alterations are allowed.

    2. Change of copy is limited to changes to the sign text only within the existing sign; no changes to the sign structure or materials are allowed. For example, with an internally illuminated cabinet sign, the front panel can be changed but not the sign cabinet or

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structure. Or, with a wood sign, the sign may be re-painted or re-sandblasted, but may not be replaced. No changes of copy may be made for a sign listed in the Iconic Signs Inventory.

  • F. Maintenance and repair. Nonconforming signs and sign structures may be maintained or repaired, provided the following criteria are met:

    1. No structural alterations shall be allowed to the existing sign. Structural alterations include any exterior or interior alteration(s) made to the sign or sign structure which result in a different footprint, size, shape, character or location.

    2. Replacement materials shall maintain the same visual appearance and characteristics of the original materials, ensuring compatibility of the replacement materials within the structure.

    3. The total maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation costs shall not exceed 50 percent of the full replacement cost of the sign. These costs shall be limited to construction labor and materials costs and shall be verified by a California licensed contractor; the Director may require a peer review of the cost estimate, and/or an additional contractor’s estimate.

  • G. Expansion. No expansion of a nonconforming sign or sign structure is allowed.

  • H . Termination by destruction, discontinuance, or intensification of land use. The rights provided herein with respect to a nonconforming sign other than a sign listed in the Iconic Sign Inventory shall be terminated if any of the following occurs:

    1. The sign or sign structure is damaged, demolished, or destroyed to the extent that repair costs exceed 50 percent of the full replacement cost of the sign. These costs shall be limited to construction labor and materials costs.

    2. The damage or destruction requires repair other than facial copy replacement, and the sign cannot be repaired within 30 days of the date of its damage or destruction. The Director may have the discretion to provide a 60-day time extension. upon the sign owner furnishing written evidence that the required timeframe would create an undue hardship or practical difficulty.

    3. The owner, outside of a change of copy, obtains permission to:

      • a. Remodel the sign to bring it into conformance with this Chapter.

      • b. Expand or remodel the building or intensify the land use upon which the sign is located or the sign is affected by construction, remodeling, or other requirements of this Development Code.

    4. The owner, outside of a change of copy, removes the nonconforming sign.

For subsections H.1 and H.2 above, the construction labor costs and materials shall be verified by a California licensed contractor.

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  • I. Abandoned signs. Except with respect to signs appearing in the Iconic Signs Inventory, a sign or sign structure shall be removed by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign or structure is located when for a period not less than 90 days the business or product identified in the sign is no longer conducted on the premises, the structure upon which the sign is displayed is abandoned, or the advertising is no longer displayed on the sign structure. If the owner or lessee fails to remove the sign, the Director shall give the owner 30 days written notice to remove it. Upon failure to comply with the notice, the Director may have the sign removed at the owner’s expense.

  • J. Public danger. A sign or sign structure shall be removed by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign or structure is located if the Director determines that:

    1. The sign or structure is or may become a danger to public;

    2. The sign or structure is unsafe; or

    3. The sign or structure constitutes a traffic hazard not created by relocation of streets or highways or by acts of the Town or Nevada County.

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