Ordinance Number 1065ORDINANCE NO. 1065
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF SAN JUAN
CAPISTRANO, CALIFORNIA APPROVING CODE
AMENDMENT 18-006 TO AMEND SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
MUNICIPAL CODE, TITLE 9, LAND USE, TO UPDATE
SECTION 9-3.543, SIGNS, AND APPENDIX A,
DEFINITIONS
WHEREAS, the purpose of this Ordinance is to approve Code Amendment 18-006
is to update the City of San Juan Capistrano Sign Ordinance (SJCMC, § 9-543) and
relevant definitions;
WHEREAS, on March 6, 2018, the City Council initiated Code Amendment 18-002
and directed staff to study potential amendments to the Sign Ordinance to address issues
certain constitutional issues and other changes, and this Sign Code Amendment
continues those amendments;
WHEREAS, on March 12, 2019, the Planning Commission reviewed and
recommended approval of Code Amendment 18-006;
WHEREAS, this amendment has been processed pursuant to section 9-2.309,
Amendment of the Land Use Code;
WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of the Ordinance have occurred.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN JUAN
CAPISTRANO DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted
as findings by the City Council.
SECTION 2. The City Council hereby finds and determines that this Ordinance is
exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (California
Public Resources Code § 21000 et seq.), Under State CEQA Guidelines, section
15060(c)(2), the whole of the Ordinance is exempt, because the code amendment is an
administrative activity which will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect
physical change to the environment. Under section 15060(c)(3), the whole of the whole
of the Ordinance is exempt because the code amendment is not a "project" as defined by
section 15378, since it has no potential for resulting in a direct or indirect physical change
to the environment.
SECTION 3. Pursuant to San Juan Capistrano Municipal Code, section 9-
2.309(e), the City Council hereby finds and determines as follows:
1. The proposed Land Use Code amendment conforms with the goals and
policies of the General Plan. The General Plan Community Design Element
policies and goals include preservation and enhancement of the historical
01065
character of the community, the harmonious incorporation of new
development into existing public and private development, and the
maintenance of the community's "small -village, rural atmosphere."
(GPCDU, p. 7). This Ordinance ensures that the City's sign regulations
comply with state and federal law, but also continue to ensure that the types,
locations, and sizes of signs permitted in the City are consistent with and
do not detract from the City's "small -village, rural atmosphere."
2. The proposed Land Use Code amendment is necessary to implement the
General Plan and to provide for public safety, convenience, and/or general
welfare. This ordinance requires that signs not be placed in a manner that
interferes with traffic safety.
3. The proposed Land Use Code amendment conforms with the intent of the
Development Code (title 9) and is consistent with other applicable related
provisions thereof. This Ordinance is consistent with the intent of the
Development Code in that it regulates the use of signs on private property
to ensure the use of signs is consistent with the associated and nearby
development, while still ensuring First Amendment protections afforded to
property owners. Further, this ordinance clarifies calculations and
definitions necessary for the implementation and enforcement of the
ordinance.
4. The proposed Land Use Code amendment is reasonable and beneficial at
this time. This Ordinance is reasonable and beneficial at this time, because
it captures and codifies the City's current best practices to implement and
enforce this Sign Code.
SECTION 4. San Juan Capistrano Municipal Code, title 9, Land Use, chapter 3,
Zoning Districts and Standards, article 5, Supplemental District Regulations, section 9-
3.543, Signs, is hereby amended as follows:
TITLE 9. LAND USE
CHAPTER 3. ZONING DISTRICTS AND STANDARDS
Article 5. Supplemental District Regulations
Sec. 9-3.543. Signs.
(a) General Provisions. The following general provisions shall apply
pertaining to title, scope, definitions, and purpose and intent.
(1) Title. This chapter shall be known and cited as the "Sign
Ordinance for the City of San Juan Capistrano."
(2) Scope. It is unlawful for any person to construct, maintain,
display or alter or cause to be constructed, maintained,
2 01065
displayed or altered, a sign within the City except in
conformance with this chapter.
(3) Definitions. Sign definitions are set forth in Appendix A of the
San Juan Capistrano Municipal Code.
(4) Purpose and Intent. The City Council finds and declares:
(A) The City of San Juan Capistrano is a community of
natural beauty, distinct and notable architecture and
historic tradition. Signs have a strong visual impact on
the character and quality of the community as they are
a prominent part of the scenery, attract or repel the
viewing public, and set the tone of neighborhoods and
districts.
(B) The City relies on its scenic beauty to invite tourism and
commerce and aesthetic considerations that promote
economic value. The primary purpose of signs is
proper business and directional identification for the
public. It is the intent of the City to limit the size, type,
and location of signs in order to minimize their
distracting effect on pedestrians and motorists and not
subject citizens or guests to excessive competition for
their visual attention, It is also the intent of the City to
encourage creativity, high quality and superior design
in all signs.
(C) The Community Design Element of the General Plan
sets forth goals and policies to ensure that the design
of this community be of the highest quality, and that
accessory facilities, including signs, be compatible with
the overall theme, and do not create a visual blight that
detracts from the quality of the environment and an
individual's perception of the City.
(D) The procedures and standards set forth in this sign
code are intended to:
i. Ensure that signs erected within the City are
compatible with their surroundings and are in
keeping with the goals and policies of the
Community Design Element of the General
Plan;
ii. Generally provide for the identification of
business enterprises and shall not be used for
general advertising purposes;
3
01065
iii. Promote traffic safety and community identity
while also enhancing the quality of the visual
environment in the City;
iv. Establish procedures and design regulations
which control the location, size, type, and
number of signs which may be permitted;
V. Promote harmony with the building architecture;
vi. Be appropriate for the neighborhood character;
vii. Protect those uses which are adequately and
appropriately identified from too many and too
large signs;
viii. Protect commercial districts from sign clutter;
ix. Assure the proper maintenance of signs.
(b) General Requirements. The following requirements pertaining to
design criteria, sign copy, acceptable materials, unacceptable
materials, logos/trademarks, illumination, calculating area and
height, and noncommercial signs shall apply to all signs, including
signs that are exempt from the permit requirement, within the City.
(1) Design Criteria. The design and placement of signs shall
comply with the specific design standards set forth in this
section, the City's adopted Architectural Design Guidelines
and the Community Design Element of the General Plan,
including, but not limited to, standards relating to sign visibility,
legibility and readability.
(2) Commercial Sign Copy. The text or copy of signs may identify
the name, and/or location, and/or address, and/or nature of
the business or center. Sign copy shall not include general
advertising.
(3) Acceptable Sign Materials and Methods of Construction. The
following sign materials and methods of construction are
acceptable and desirable:
(A) High quality hand carved, sandblasted, painted or
routed wood;
(B) High quality metal letters;
(C) Painted or sandblasted ceramic tile;
4 01065
(D) Painted stucco or similar background;
(E) Wrought iron with painted or stained backgrounds and
lettering;
(F) Flush or insert mounted signs of tile or stone;
(G) Sign style, including any proposed illumination, shall be
compatible with the buildings architecture and
age/period;
(H) Projecting signs;
(1) Glass;
(J) Fiberglass;
(K) Other materials that provide the same finish
appearance as materials listed in this subsection and
subject to City approval.
(4) Unacceptable Sign Materials and Methods of Construction.
The following materials are unacceptable and prohibited:
(A) Fluorescent paint;
(B) Exposed spot lights, exterior neon tubing, and exposed
electrical conduits;
(C) Canvas materials (except awnings);
(D) Painted plywood background;
(E) Other materials that provide the same finish
appearance as the materials listed in this subsection.
(5) Trademarks. The use of a company adopted or registered
trademark may be permitted only if the size and location will
not be in substantial conflict with the architectural design of
the building and/or the approved sign or sign program lettering
style and colors.
(6) Illumination. The illumination of sign copy shall be limited as
follows:
(A) External Illumination. External illumination where the
sign copy is either illuminated by an external light
source that illuminates the sign copy or by backlighting
where the illumination of the sign is from a light source
5 01065
internal to the sign copy (letters) and where the light is
projected onto the wall surface upon which the sign is
attached. External light sources are to be integrated
into the architectural or landscape features of a project
such that it is not generally visible to the general public
from the public right-of-way. External illuminated signs
shall have subdued lighting. The use of halogen as a
light source shall be prohibited.
(B) Internal Illumination. Sign copy may use internal
illumination where the specific sign copy lettering uses
translucent material and the only portion of the sign
copy that is illuminated is limited to the actual lettering
and/or a company adopted or registered trademark or
logo. Internal illumination in the TC (Tourist
Commercial) zone requires approval of the Community
Development Director who may refer to the Design
Review Committee and/or Planning Commission for
approval.
(C) Lighting Intensity. Lighting shall be subdued and
provide the minimum intensity for reading the sign at
any given time. Lighting on signs between sunset and
sunrise may be required to include ambient light
monitors to limit or adjust brightness, timers to turn off
sign lighting, or certification for sign specifications by
the sign manufacturer or contractor. Controlling and
monitoring lighting intensity shall be subject to review
of the Community Development Director who may refer
to the Design Review Committee and/or Planning
Commission.
(7) Calculating Sign Area and Sign Height. Calculations for sign
area and height of specific signs shall be as set forth below.
(A) Generally. Unless otherwise noted in this section, the
sign area and sign height shall be calculated as
provided below.
i. Sign Area.
a. The sign area shall be determined by
drawing a rectangular box, four sides
connected by four right angles, around
the periphery of the sign face and
calculating the area of the rectangular
box. The area of the rectangular box will
6 01065
be equal to the sign face's greatest
height multiplied by the sign face's
greatest width, as shown in Figure 3-7.
b. For a double-faced sign, aggregate area
of both faces count towards the sign
area.
ii. Sign Height. The sign height shall be measured
from the topmost edge of the sign face to the
finished grade at the base of the sign.
(B) Free Standing Monument Signs. For a free standing
monument sign, the sign area and sign height shall be
calculated as provided below.
L Sign Area. The sign area of a free standing
monument sign shall be calculated based on the
sign copy area.
a. The sign copy area is determined by
drawing a rectangular box, four sides
connected by four right angles, around
each individual word, number, or image
of the sign copy, and calculating the
aggregate area of the rectangular boxes,
as shown in Figure 3-5.
b. If the copy area includes upper-case and
lower-case letters, then the sign copy
area is determined by boxing around
individual letter ascenders and
descenders for each individual word of
the sign copy, and calculating the
aggregate area of the boxes, as shown in
Figure 3-6.
C. For a free standing monument sign that
is double -sided, a sign area limit applies
to each face individually, not in the
aggregate.
ii. Sign Height. The sign height of a free standing
monument sign shall be measured from the
topmost edge of the sign face to the finished
grade at the base of the sign, as shown in
Figures 3-5.
7
01065
Figure 3-5. Free Standing Monument Sign
(C) Building -Mounted Signs, Flush. For a building -
mounted sign that is flush against the building, the sign
area and sign height shall be calculated as provided
below:
L Sign Area. The sign area of a building -mounted
sign that is flush against the building shall be
calculated based on the sign copy area.
a. The sign copy area is determined by
drawing a rectangular box, four sides
connected by four right angles, around
each individual word, number, or image
of the sign copy, and calculating the
aggregate area of the rectangular boxes,
as shown in Figures 3-5 and 3-6.
b. If the copy area includes upper-case and
lower-case letters, then the sign copy
area is determined by boxing around
individual letter ascenders and
descenders for each individual word of
the sign copy, and calculating the
aggregate area of the boxes, as shown in
Figure 3-6.
ii. Sign Height. The sign height of a building -
mounted sign that is flush against the building
shall be measured from the topmost edge of the
topmost letter to the finished grade at the base
of the building wall, as shown in Figure 3-6.
Figure 3-6. Building -Mounted Signs (Flush)
8 01065
=W am to W be datertninad by
calcWsttng the w%n of the tndtrtdual �qca
words of the dM copy. C nddw*d the
"me as a wap slgn. Halot of the sign
Iran
Is * t miff ad by the rnessuremont
tap host d tM
horn the topmast edge of the xign to
h
'tom
e w
the tltdehed gsado at the baso of tho sign.
(C) Building -Mounted Signs, Flush. For a building -
mounted sign that is flush against the building, the sign
area and sign height shall be calculated as provided
below:
L Sign Area. The sign area of a building -mounted
sign that is flush against the building shall be
calculated based on the sign copy area.
a. The sign copy area is determined by
drawing a rectangular box, four sides
connected by four right angles, around
each individual word, number, or image
of the sign copy, and calculating the
aggregate area of the rectangular boxes,
as shown in Figures 3-5 and 3-6.
b. If the copy area includes upper-case and
lower-case letters, then the sign copy
area is determined by boxing around
individual letter ascenders and
descenders for each individual word of
the sign copy, and calculating the
aggregate area of the boxes, as shown in
Figure 3-6.
ii. Sign Height. The sign height of a building -
mounted sign that is flush against the building
shall be measured from the topmost edge of the
topmost letter to the finished grade at the base
of the building wall, as shown in Figure 3-6.
Figure 3-6. Building -Mounted Signs (Flush)
8 01065
aulld{ng-Mountml Signa (nu.h) - Sign
copy . Is w be d.m W..d by
eekrwx ng tits .na of the Individual text
and ..dosing that .m dwwn by I.otnu
A, S. C, and D. H.Ight of ahe Mg.
U the dl* a I., the wlnnr..l
Sltu,viM nn drumaxd
I~ to the flN h grade .t the
r10,
based the budding wall.
.aclnHnt aMamin 6. —
�N.
uwrr ..e I—,— a..
Jnauav arum ati
a%rn,n.a via., a.
LwMOrt w.e.
(D) Building -Mounted Signs, Projecting. For a building -
mounted sign that is projecting from the building, the
sign area and sign height shall be calculated as
provided below:
Sign Area.
The sign area shall be determined by
drawing a rectangular box, four sides
connected by four right angles, around
the periphery of the sign face and
calculating the area of the rectangular
box. The area of the rectangular box will
be equal to the sign face's greatest
height multiplied by the sign face's
greatest width, as shown in Figure 3-7.
b. For a building -mounted sign that is
projecting from the building and is
double-faced, the aggregate area of both
faces count towards the sign area.
ii. Sign Height. The sign height of a building -
mounted sign that is projecting from the building
shall be measured from the topmost edge of the
sign face to the finished grade at the base of the
sign.
Figure 3-7. Building -Mounted Signs (Projecting)
Rulldhtg-Mountad Sops OwoiecdxBi - Sign
copy area in to be dstennined by cs)atlsting
the area of the sign facet as shown an tha eaarnptc
and enclosing that sraa shown by points
A. 8, q and D. Haight of the sign
is datamfned by the tneawrment �
from the top of the sign face to them ICC secs of ti' b
anishad gratia at the barn of" sign. M bw ad Gftd�'Z STREETr
A.
t of
(8) Noncommercial Signs. Notwithstanding any other provision of
this Article, noncommercial signs are allowed in all zoning
districts and may be substituted for any sign expressly
allowed. Noncommercial signs are subject to the same
standards and total maximum allowances per site or building
of each sign type specified in this Article.
(9) Placement. Signs shall not be posted, placed or displayed in
a manner that creates a safety hazard, including but not
limited to by obstructing the flow of vehicular, bicycle or
pedestrian traffic or the visibility of vehicular, bicycle or
pedestrian traffic, street signs, signals, or emergency
equipment.
(c) Sign Permit Required. Unless specifically exempted by Section 9-
3.543(f), it is unlawful for any person to erect, alter or relocate any
sign within the City, or to direct or authorize another person to do so,
except pursuant to a sign permit. Review procedures for sign permits
are set forth in Section 9-2.343(b). No permit shall be required for
repainting, cleaning, or other normal maintenance and repair of a
sign unless the structure, design, color or character is altered.
(d) Sign Programs. A sign program shall be included in the application
for review of any discretionary entitlement that proposes new
nonresidential office, commercial, service, industrial, and
developments with outdoor display and sales. Automobile
dealerships may submit sign programs at its [their] discretion.
Review procedures for sign programs are set forth in Section 9-
2.343(c).
(e) Prohibited Signs. In addition to any sign not conforming to the
provisions of this chapter, the following signs are prohibited:
(1) Signs mounted on or above roofs;
10 01065
(2) Signs which incorporate moving, flashing or vibrating
components, smoke intermittent lighting or other similar
attractive characteristics, including signs manipulated by
individuals. This prohibition does not include non-commercial
signs that are carried, but not otherwise manipulated by
individuals;
(3) Signs in public right-of-way, except as authorized pursuant to
Title 7, Chapter 9, "Temporary Signs;"
(4) Signs which are placed on or written on a vehicle providing
direction where the vehicle is parked in such a way as to
promote or advertise, whether on public or private property;
(5) Off-site signs except directional signs or signs that have been
permitted by the Planning Commission pursuant to an
approved sign program;
(6) Billboards and mobile billboards;
(7) Flags, streamers, pennants and other similar attraction
devices except as permitted under Section 9-3.547(b)(4),
Special Activity Permits for car dealers;
(8) Balloons and any inflatable signs;
(9) Signs which are installed on any public utility installation, utility
pole, or tree on public or private property;
(10) Signs which resemble or conflict with any traffic control
devices or interfere with the flow of traffic;
(11) Signs which create a safety hazard by obstructing the clear
view of pedestrian or vehicular traffic per Section 9-3.559,
Visibility at intersections/driveways;
(12) Exposed neon signs exceeding four (4) square feet in area ;
(13) Spot lights and search lights, except as part of an approved
community event or as approved by the Community
Development Director;
(14) Any sign placed or maintained that interferes with free ingress
or egress from any door, walkway, window or fire escape;
(15) Signs erected on public or private property without the
permission of the property owner;
11 01065
(16) Signs visible from the public street or parking lot attached to
or placed on merchandise or materials stored or displayed
outdoors except for parking lot sales;
(17) Any sign displaying obscene, indecent or immoral matter as
defined in the California Penal Code;
(18) Signs on awnings or canopies, except on the valance;
(19) Any signs that are tacked, nailed, posted, pasted, glued or
otherwise affixed to trees, poles, stakes, fences or the exterior
of a building or other structure, unless otherwise expressly
allowed by this Code;
(20) Bench commercial signs.
(f) Signs Exempt from a Permit. The following signs shall be allowed
without a sign permit and shall not be included in the determination
of type, number or area of signs allowed on a building or parcel
except as otherwise specified below. These signs, however, are
subject to the general design standards outlined in this section, as
well as any additional standards set forth in this subsection (f).
(1) Flags. A maximum of one flag each, not exceeding forty (40)
square feet in area per flag for nonresidential zones and
twenty-four (24) square feet for residential zones;
(2) Temporary Noncommercial Signs.
(A) General Design Standards:
L Area per Sign. A single temporary
noncommercial sign shall not exceed nine (9)
square feet in area. The sign may be single or
double-faced
ii. Height per Sign. If freestanding, the temporary
noncommercial sign shall not exceed six (6) feet
in height. If mounted to a building, the temporary
noncommercial sign must be below the roof
eves.
(B) Aggregate Area and Timing.
L A property owner may place a maximum
aggregate of nine (9) square feet of area of
temporary noncommercial signage on the
12 01065
property for one period of forty five (45) days per
year.
ii. During ninety (90) days prior to and seven (7)
after a local, state, or national election, a
property owner may place temporary
noncommercial signage on the property as
follows:
a. For residential property, sixty three (63)
additional square feet of area; and
b. For nonresidential property eighty one
(81) additional square feet of area;
(3) Real Estate Sale or Lease Signs (not including banners).
(A) During the period in which property is offered for sale
or lease and seven (7) days after the sale or lease of
the property is executed, one property sale or lease
sign is allowed on each 600 lineal feet of street frontage
of the property.
(B) Such sign may be single or double-faced and is limited
in area to:
Not more than nine (9) square feet for lots less
than one acre,
ii. Not more than sixteen (16) square feet for lots
more than one acre, and
iii. Not more than thirty-two (32) square feet for lots
immediately adjacent to the 1-5 Freeway. The
Development Services Director may approve a
sign up to 60 square feet adjacent to the 1-5
Freeway, if unique visibility conditions exist.
(4) Temporary Signs on Produce Stands. Temporary signs on
produce stands that do not exceed an aggregate sixty-four
(64) square feet and located within 100 feet of the produce
stand, with individual signs not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet in area. Temporary Signs in the Right -of -Way.
Temporary signs placed in the public right-of-way pursuant to
Chapter 9 of Title 7 of the Municipal Code, Temporary Signs.
(5) Government Required Signs.
13 01065
(A) Government and legally required posters, notices, and
signs. Such signs may be located off-site.
(B) Development Application Signs. Signs posted on
properties for discretionary applications set forth by
City Council Resolution 07-09-04-01 as may be
amended.
(C) Environmental Signs. Signs that must be posted in
accordance with a mitigation measure adopted
pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act or
as a condition of approval for a specific development
application;
(D) "No Trespassing" Sign. "No trespassing" signs allowed
or required by the California Penal Code shall not
exceed one (1) square foot in size, placed at each
corner or entrance to the property and at intervals of
not less than fifty (50) feet;
(6) Hazards and Safety Signs.
(A) Signs that warn of construction, excavation or similar
hazards so long as the hazard exists;
(B) Traffic and safety signs including signs of public utility
agencies and construction contractors serving as
directional or safety aids (may be illuminated).
Examples include street signs, freeway off -ramp signs,
and roadwork signs;
(7) Residential Signage. Residential signage, such as
nameplates, that does not exceed two (2) square feet in area;
(8) Professional Occupation Signage. Professional occupation
signage, such as and nameplates, that does not exceed one
per tenant, and does not to exceed two (2) square feet;
(9) Memorial Signs and Tablets. Memorial signs and tablets
permanently installed at building sites, which denote a
noncommercial message, shall not exceed six (6) square feet
in area;
(10) Vehicle Signs. Vehicle signs painted directly on vehicles
indicating the name of the establishment using the vehicle.
For the purpose of this section, a vehicle sign may include text
or trademark logo, but shall not include directional arrows or
similar graphics;
14 01065
(11) Menu Board Signs. Menu board signs (permanent) building
mounted that do not exceed four (4) square feet in area (may
u be illuminated) and only one per entrance;
(12) Gasoline Pump, Telephone Booth, and News Rack. Any sign
on a gasoline pump, telephone booth, and news rack,
provided the sign identifies only the product contained therein,
or displays operating instructions, and the lettering does not
exceed four (4) inches in height.
(13) Residential Event Signs. On residential property, a sign
denoting a one-time event, such as a garage sale, on the
residential property may be may be posted no more than 24
hours before the one-time event, shall be removed no more
than 24 hours after the event, and may be posted for not more
than 72 hours. A one-time event sign shall have a sign area
not to exceed three (3) square feet.
(g) Sign Standards by Type and Zoning District. The maximum size of
signs and height provisions for various signs in various zoning
districts are set forth in Table 3-42. Signs and/or illumination of signs
that are visible from City entry ways and view corridors (i.e., Camino
Capistrano, Rancho Viejo Road, Ortega Highway and the 1-5
Freeway) may be referred to the Planning Commission as
determined by the Community Development Director.
Zone Districts;
(1) Residential Zones
(A)
RA — Residential Agriculture
(B)
HR — Hillside
Residential
(C)
RSE 40,000
— Single -Family 40,000
(D)
RSE 20,000
— Single -Family 20,000
(E)
RS 10,000 —
Single -Family 10,000
(F)
RS 7,000 —
Single -Family 7,000
(G)
RS 4,000 —
Single -Family 4,000
(H)
RG 7,000 —
Residential Garden 7,000
(1)
RG 4,000 — Residential Garden 4,000
15 01065
(J) RM — Multiple -Family
(K) AF/SH — Affordable Family/Senior Housing
(L) MHP — Mobile Home Park
(2) Commercial Zones
(A) TC — Tourist Commercial
(B) NC — Neighborhood Commercial
(C) GC — General Commercial
(D) OC — Office Commercial
(3) Industrial Zones
16 01065
n
n
n
(A)
CM — Commercial Manufacturing
(B)
IP — Industrial Park
(C)
A — Agri -Business
(4)
P&I - Public & Institutional Zones
(5)
Open Space Zones
(A)
GOS — General Open Space
(B)
OSR — Open Space Recreation
(C)
NP — Neighborhood Park
(D)
CP — Community Park
(E)
SP — Specialty Park
(F)
RP — Regional Park
(G)
NOS — Natural Open Space
(H)
RC — Recreation Commercial
(6)
FM - Farm Market
(7)
SP/PP — Specific Plan/Precise Plan
(8)
PC —
Planned Community
16 01065
n
n
n
(9) CDP — Comprehensive Development Plan
(10) SWF — Solid Waste Facility
* For discretionary projects see sign program pursuant to Planning Commission
and/or Design Review Committee standards Section 9-3.543(d).
Table 3-42
Sign Standards
17 01065
Maximum Height
(in no case above
Maximum Area
Max. Aggregate
Type of Sign
District/Land Use
eaves)
(square feet)**
Area/Notes**
Awning Signs
Commercial
Min. T above
18
18 square feet or
Districts
sidewalk
30% of valance
area, whichever is
less.
Building -mounted
TC, GC, NC, RC,
25 feet above grade
18 square feet per
24 square feet per
(wall) signs***
OSR, P&I
tenant plus one
wall exposure per
(flush)
project identification
individual tenant.
sign or major tenant
Sign placement for
sign per building,
tenants shall be on
with a sign area
the same wall
equal to one square
exposure as the
foot for every lineal
tenant's main entry
foot of wall area
whenever feasible.
where the sign is to
Change of copy
be placed, up to a
signs where the
maximum of 50
sign area or support
square feet.
structures are not
altered may be
approved
administratively.
CM, IP
25 feet
60
80 square feet per
exposure per
elevation (side).
OC
25 feet
18 square feet per
18 square feet per
tenant plus one
wall exposure per
project identification
tenant. Signs for
sign or major tenant
tenants shall be
sign per building,
encouraged on the
with a sign area
same wall exposure
equal to one square
as the tenant's
foot for every lineal
main entry
foot of wall area
whenever feasible.
where the sign is to
Change of copy
be placed, up to a
signs where the
maximum of 50
sign area or support
square feet.
structures are not
altered may be
approved
administratively.
17 01065
18 01065
n
i!
n
Maximum Height
(in no case above
Maximum Area
Max. Aggregate
Type of Sign
District/Land Use
eaves)
(square feet)**
Area/Notes**
Building -mounted
All Districts
15 feet
8
Included as
signs (projecting,
aggregate for
hanging or
building -mounted
suspended)
(flush). Shall be
minimum 7 feet
above grade.
Banners
Nonresidential
Maximum of 1
(promotional and
Districts
temporary sign per
grand opening)
tenant or suite (not
including
subleases) not to
exceed 48 square
feet, nor to exceed
45 days a year, one
time only. Banners
shall only be
mounted on
building facades.
Community
Development
Director may
extend time limits
for a temporary
business banner is
displayed with a
signed contract that
states when a
permanent sign will
be completed. Time
extensions shall not
include promotional
banners.
Construction signs
All Districts
8 feet
16
Sites more than
(major)
10,000 square feet.
Construction signs
All Districts
4 feet
6
Sites less than
(minor)
10,000 square feet.
Directory signs
All Districts
12
Letters shall not
exceed 6 inches in
height.
Memorial signs and
6
tablets
18 01065
n
i!
n
19 01065
Maximum Height
(in no case above
Maximum Area
Max. Aggregate
Type of Sign
District/Land Use
eaves)
(square feet)**
Area/Notes**
Menu/order board
At the discretion of
A maximum of 2
signs (permanent)
the Planning
menu/order boards
Drive-through menu
Commission, but in
are permissible
boards
no event greater
subject to Planning
than 45 sq. ft. per
Commission review
menu/order board
of a sign program
and subject to the
final discretion of
the City council.
Drive-through
directional signs
shall not count
towards the menu
board aggregate
area.
Monument signs*
TC
6 feet height
24
Multiple signs may
(freestanding)
exceed maximum
area requirements
for separate entries
with adequate
separation subject
to Planning
Commission
approval.
GC, NC, CM, IP,
6 feet height
60
OC, P&I
Auto Dealership
25 feet height
60
Murals (artistic
Nonresidential
48
See Section 9.3 -
proposals not
Districts
543.
classified as wall
signs)
Flags
Nonresidential
35 feet height
40
1 per parcel.
Districts
Residential Districts
20 feet height
24
Noncommercial
Nonresidential
signs (on-site)
Districts
Noncommercial
All Districts
6 feet height
9
Additional signage
temporary signs
available during
certain periods of
time. See Section
9.3-543(f)(2).
Permanent window
Commercial and
Not to exceed 25%
signs
Industrial Districts
of the window area.
Permanent neon
4
window signs
19 01065
Type of Sign
District/Land Use
Maximum Height
(in no case above
eaves)
Maximum Area
(square feet)**
Max. Aggregate
Area/Notes**
Portable signs
Nonresidential
4 feet, 6 inches
5
Maximum one
Districts
portable sign per
tenant on sidewalks
of private property,
a foyer, portico or
other building entry,
within 50 feet of
tenant main
entrance. May be
displayed only
during business
hours. Shall be
professionally
designed,
fabricated and
maintained. The
Community
Development
Director may
approve one sign
for tenants not
visible from right-of-
way within 50 feet
of the main
entrance, otherwise
Planning
Commission
approval is
required.
Professional
2 -F
per tenant space.
occupation signage
20 01065
n
21
01065
Maximum Height
(in no case above
Maximum Area
Max. Aggregate
Type of Sign
District/Land Use
eaves)
(square feet)**
Area/Notes**
Public and
P&I
Maximum 15 feet
48 square feet
Maximum of 1
institutional
above grade.
banner sign per
temporary banners
street frontage not
to exceed 48
square feet or one
per public street,
private street, or
railroad right-of-
way; A banner
program shall be
submitted to the
City on an annual
basis,
memorializing the
proposed banners
to be used
throughout the
year; Shall only be
placed onto the
perimeter
fence/wall or
building fagade
adjacent to the
public street,
private street, or
railroad right-of-
way; Cannot be
placed over or
extending into the
public rights-of-way,
onto trees or
landscaping, light
standards.
Real estate sale or
All Districts
9 square feet for
leasing signs
lots less than one
acre
16 square feet for
lots more than one
acre
32 square feet for
lots adjacent to the
1-5 Freeway. The
Development
Services Director
may approve a sign
up to 60 square feet
adjacent to the 1-5
Freeway, if unique
visibility conditions
exist.
21
01065
22 01065
Maximum Height
(in no case above
Maximum Area
Max. Aggregate
Type of Sign
District/Land Use
eaves)
(square feet)**
Area/Notes**
Residential Signage
2
Not more than one
per residence.
Service station
Nonresidential
Please refer to Section 9-3.541 Service and Fuel Dispensing
signs
Districts
Stations.
Subdivision signs
Residential and PC
6 feet
24
48 square feet per
(permanent)
Districts
project entry,
maximum 2 signs
per entry.
Subdivision signs
Residential and PC
12 feet
32
64 square feet per
(temporary)
Districts
subdivision, over 64
square feet requires
Community
Development
Director approval.
Temporary signs on
32
64 square feet
produce stand
located within 100
feet of the produce
stand or less.
Temporary signs in
3 feet if within 100
6 square feet if
public right-of-way
feet of an
within 100 feet of
intersection; 6 feet
an intersection; 9
if 100 feet or more
square feet if 100
away from an
feet or more from
intersection
an intersection
Temporary
Maximum 45 days
business signs
pending
construction of
permanent signs.
The Community
Development
Director may
extend time limits
with a signed
contract that states
when a permanent
sign will be
completed.
Temporary window
Not to exceed more
signs
than 25% of the
total window area.
Theater attraction
Requires Planning
signs
Commission
review.
22 01065
Type of Sign
District/Land Use
Maximum Height
(in no case above
eaves)
Maximum Area
(square feet)**
Max. Aggregate
Area/Notes**
Vehicle signs
Painted directly on
the vehicle. May
include text,
trademark or logo.
Temporary signs
shall not be affixed
to the vehicle or
used for directional
signage.
* Only one permanent freestanding monument sign per street frontage shall be permitted
for individual establishments or shopping centers. Establishments within shopping centers
are not permitted individual freestanding signs. Two freestanding signs may be permitted
if located on either side of a main project entry, provided their aggregate square footage
does not exceed 60 square feet. The Planning Commission shall determine the most
appropriate illumination, if any, that is in character with the building architecture and
mitigates potential light impacts on properties in the vicinity. Hours of sign illumination may
be limited by the Planning Commission.
** Individual establishments, multi -tenant commercial and industrial centers, etc. may
exceed the maximum allowable square footage provided the sign area is determined by
the Community Development Director to be in scale with the building portion of the tenant,
however in no instance shall the sign face exceed the maximum permitted above two (2)
percent of the building elevation portion occupied by the tenant, whichever is greater. If the
Community Development Director finds that the sign is not in scale with the building
elevation, the request is to be referred to the Planning Commission.
*** All signs subject to approval by the Community Development Director may be referred
to the Planning Commission.
(h) Signs requiring Planning Commission review. Notwithstanding the
requirements of Section 9-2.343(b)(1), the following signs require
Planning Commission review prior to issuance of a sign permit. The
Community Development Director shall have the authority to require
all applicable materials to deem an application complete to be
forwarded to the Planning Commission.
(1) Monument (freestanding) signs;
(2) Murals;
(3) Theater marquees;
(4) Electronic Message Centers;
(5) Sign Programs for discretionary project applications;
(6) Freeway signs;
23 01065
(7) Drive-thru menu boards;
(8) Outdoor inventory sellers; !
(9) Community Development Director may refer any sign to the
Planning Commission.
(i} General Design Criteria. This section is intended to be used in
conjunction with other standards contained in these sign regulations.
In no case may the maximum number or size of signs, or their
illumination levels exceed standards provided by this title.
(1) Building Mounted (Flush) Signs (Wall Signs).
(A) General Design Criteria: Building mounted (wall) signs
shall comply with the following design criteria:
i. Include channel letters made out of wood,
metal, plastic or other acceptable material;
ii. Be painted on a wall, or on a board that is
attached to a wall with approved materials
pursuant to Section 9-3.543(b)(3);
iii. Should be oriented to achieve balanced
composition and harmony with other
architectural elements of a building facade.
iv. Shall be placed on a flat building surface and not
be placed over or otherwise obscure
architectural building features.
(B) Location and Number Permitted. Wall signs must be
located on a building face that has a public entrance, if
feasible. The maximum number of wall signs permitted
shall not exceed one per building exposure (wall).
(C) Size. Wall signs may be a maximum of eighteen (18)
square feet each or aggregate twenty-four (24) square
feet and shall in no case exceed two (2) percent of the
building face as determined by the Community
Development Director.
(D) Illumination. Illumination shall occur in accordance with
Section 9-3.543(b)(6).
(E) Zoning. Wall signs are allowed in TC, GC, NC, RC,
OSR, P&I, CM, IP, OC zoning districts.
24 01065
(2) Monument (Freestanding) Signs.
(A) General Design Criteria. Monument signs shall comply
with the following design criteria:
i. Be used to identify tenants when building
setbacks, orientation or design make it difficult
to provide other types of signage, such as wall
signs, that are plainly visible to people that are
trying to identify a use. The primary function is
to provide project or tenant identification.
ii. Shall have a solid base that the sign face is
installed upon.
iii. Shall be designed so that the style of the sign
and its base are consistent with the architecture
of the buildings on the site.
iv. Monument signs shall include landscaping at
the base to enhance their appearance.
(B) Location and Number Permitted. Monument signs may
be located in required setback areas for any given
zone, subject to the approval of the Planning
Commission, as provided for in Section 9-3.543(h)(1)
of these regulations. Only one monument sign is
permitted per street frontage. Except, shopping centers
or multiple tenant centers may have two (2) monument
signs, one sign on each side of the main entrance drive
access.
(C) Size. Monument signs may be a maximum of the area
and height identified in Table 3-42. Sign area is
calculated pursuant to Figure 3-5.
(D) Illumination. Illumination shall be in accordance with
Section 9-3 543(b)(6).
(E) Zoning. Monument signs are allowed in all commercial,
industrial and public and institutional zones.
(3) Building Mounted (Projecting) Signs.
(A) General Design Criteria. Building mounted (projecting)
signs shall comply with the following design criteria:
25
01065
i. Be attached to a building face and project out
perpendicular to the building wall and oriented
to pedestrians on the sidewalk level.
ii. Sign and sign text shall use appropriate
materials including wood and metal with carved
or applied lettering or design features, or other
material that is architecturally compatible with
the building that the sign is attached to.
Multiple projecting signs should not be installed
within ten (10) feet of each other if on the same
property and should be separated from
projecting signs on adjacent properties by a
minimum of ten (10) feet to ensure proper
visibility.
(B) Location and Number. A minimum clearance of seven
(7) feet must be maintained above the public right-of-
way or private sidewalk area. One projecting sign is
allowed per tenant space.
(C) Size. Projecting signs may have a maximum area of
eight (8) square feet. 19
D Illumination. Illumination shall occur in accordance with
Section 9-3.543(b)(6).
(E) Zoning. Projecting signs may be allowed in all zoning
districts.
(4) Building Mounted (Hanging and Suspended) Signs.
(A) General Design Criteria. Building mounted (hanging
and suspended) signs shall comply with the following
design criteria:
i. Hanging signs, or suspended signs, are used to
help define entries and identify business names
to pedestrians and can be particularly useful for
storefronts that have multiple tenants.
ii. Hanging signs are small and can hang over or
adjacent to a building entry.
(B) Location and Number. A minimum clearance of seven
(7) feet must be maintained above any public right -of -
26 01065
way or private sidewalk area. One hanging or
suspended sign is allowed per tenant space.
(C) Size. Hanging signs may have a maximum area of
eight (8) square feet.
(D) Illumination. Illumination shall occur in accordance with
Section 9-3.543(b)(6)(A).
(E) Zoning. Allowed in all zoning districts.
(5) Window (Permanent) Signs.
(A) General Design Criteria. Window (permanent) signs
shall comply with the following design criteria:
i. Be scaled to the pedestrian and oriented to
window shoppers on the sidewalk, as opposed
to passing vehicles.
ii. Be limited to small graphics and text that serve
to frame a window or to provide information.
iii. Shall not obscure the view into a store or place
of business.
(B) Location and Number. There is no specific location
requirement or limit to the number of window signs
allowed.
(C) Size. Permanent window signs shall not exceed
twenty-five (25) percent of the window area.
(D) Illumination. Illumination shall be in accordance with
Section 9-3.543(b)(6).
(E) Zoning. Permanent window signs are allowed in all
commercial and industrial zoning districts.
(6) Awning Signs.
(A) General Design Criteria. Awning signs shall comply
with the following design criteria:
i. Be limited to the valance of the awning and not
on the awning face.
(B) Location and Number. Signs may be located on awning
subject to size criteria. One awning sign may be
27 01065
permitted per tenant space and must maintain a
minimum clearance of seven (7) feet above any public
right-of-way or private sidewalk area.
(C) Size. Signs on awnings shall not cover more than thirty
(30) percent of the valance area of the awning, or
exceed eighteen (18) square feet in size, whichever is
less.
(D) Illumination. Illumination shall be in accordance with
Section 9-3.543(b)(6)(A).
(E) Zoning. Awning signs may be located in all commercial
zones. Installation of new awnings is subject to
architectural control review.
(7) Portable Signs (including sandwich boards, A -frames, etc.).
(A) General Design Criteria. Portable signs (including
sandwich boards, A -frames, etc.) shall comply with the
following design criteria:
i. May have rewritable surfaces, such as
chalkboards or dry -erase boards.
ii. Shall be professionally designed, fabricated and
maintained.
iii. Shall be restricted for display only during
business hours.
iv. Shall require a sign permit.
(B) Location and Number. Portable signs are prohibited in
the public right-of-way and may only be placed on the
sidewalks of private property, a foyer, portico or other
building entry provided they do not interfere with
pedestrian ingress or egress as required by the
California Building Code. Only one portable sign may
be permitted per tenant space located within fifty (50)
feet of the tenant main entrance. The Community
Development Director may approve one portable sign
for tenants not visible from the right-of-way within fifty
(50) feet of the tenant main entrance, otherwise
Planning Commission approval is required.
(C) Size. Portable signs may have a maximum area of five
(5) square feet and a maximum height of four (4) feet
28 01065
six (6) inches, measured from the ground to the top of
the sign structure.
(D) Illumination. Portable signs shall not be illuminated.
(E) Zoning. Portable signs may be allowed in all
nonresidential zoning districts.
(8) Murals.
(A) Noncommercial. Murals shall not contain text or any
specific commercial message, shall be strictly an
artistic expression and shall not be used for advertising
purposes, otherwise they are classified as a wall sign.
Mural proposals which are classified as a wall sign
shall conform to the design standards applicable to wall
signs.
(B) General Design Criteria. Murals shall comply with the
following design criteria:
L No part of a mural shall exceed the height of the
structure to which it is tiled, painted or affixed
ii. No part of a mural shall extend more than six (6)
inches from the plane of the wall upon which it
is tiled, painted or affixed.
iii. No part of a mural shall exceed a height of the
first floor or 15 feet above grade.
iv. No mural may consist of, or contain, electrical or
mechanical components, or changing images
(moving structural elements, flashing or
sequential lights, lighting elements, or other
automated methods that result in movement,
the appearance of movement, or change of
mural image or message).
V. No mural, except for murals consisting
completely of paint, shall be placed over the
exterior surface of any building opening,
including, but not limited to, windows, doors and
vents. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a mural
consisting of paint or any other material may be
placed on roll down security doors on a
commercial or industrial building.
W
(C) Location and Number. Murals may be located on any
building wall. There is no specific limit on the number
of murals permitted.
(D) Size. Murals may not exceed, in the aggregate, 48
square feet per building wall.
(E) Illumination. May be externally illuminated in
accordance with Section 9-3.543(b)(6).
(F) Zoning. Murals may be located in nonresidential zoning
districts.
(9) Residential Subdivision Signs (Permanent).
(A) General Design Criteria. Residential Subdivision Signs
(Permanent) shall comply with the following design
criteria:
i. The purpose of residential subdivision signs is
to identify the name of a subdivision.
ii. Are usually freestanding monument signs or
building mounted wall signs placed on a wall
feature in a landscaped open space area at the
entry of the development.
(B) Location and number. Two (2) residential subdivision
signs are allowed at each project entry of a subdivision.
The signs shall be located within a landscaped area.
(C) Size. Each sign shall not exceed twenty-four (24)
square feet with an aggregate area not exceeding
forty-eight (48) square feet. Freestanding signs shall
not exceed six (6) feet in height from grade.
(D) Illumination. Illumination shall be in accordance with
Section 9-3.543(b)(6)(A).
(E) Zoning. Residential subdivision signs are allowed in all
residential and Planned Community zones.
(10) Directory Signs.
(A) General Design Criteria. Directory signs shall comply
with the following design criteria:
30 01065
r
n
n
i. Are used for multi -tenant buildings to provide a
directory of tenant locations within the building.
ii. May serve as the address sign for the property.
Small scale and are oriented to pedestrians.
(B) Location and Number. Directory signs may be
freestanding or may be fixed on an exterior wall if the
building has no setback. One directory sign may be
permitted per building.
(C) Size. Directory signs shall be no larger than twelve (12)
square feet in area, and individual letters shall not
exceed six (6) inches in height.
(D) Illumination. Illumination shall be in accordance with
Section 9-3.543(b)(6).
(E) Zoning. Directory signs are allowed in all zoning
districts.
(j) Temporary Signs. The following signs shall be deemed temporary
subject to development standards, time limitations and permits.
(1) Banners (Temporary business promotional). One banner not
exceeding forty-eight (48) square feet in area may be
permitted per tenant or suite (not including subleases) for one
time only, for a maximum of forty-five (45) days per calendar
year. The Community Development Director may extend the
time limit a temporary business identification banner is
displayed with a signed contract that states when a
permanent sign will be completed. Time extensions shall not
include promotional banners. Banners shall require a sign
permit. Banners shall only be mounted on building facades.
(2) Business Promotional (Community -wide special events). The
Community Development Director may approve banners
within the public right-of-way for community -wide special
events provided the street banner request meets the
provisions of City Council Policy 419.
(3) Construction (major). On-site, major construction signs shall
be permitted upon issuance of a building or grading permit for
the project site that exceeds 10,000 square feet. The
maximum allowable size for major construction signs is
sixteen (16) square feet in area and eight (8) feet in height,
Such signs shall be removed prior to issuance of a certificate
31 01065
of use and occupancy for the project or the last phase of a
project provided a valid building or grading permit has not
expired.
(4) Construction (minor). Onsite, minor construction signs on
property less than 10,000 square feet shall be permitted. The
maximum allowable size for minor construction signs is six (6)
square feet in area and four (4) feet in height.
(5) Subdivision (Temporary). Temporary subdivision signs shall
be permitted and used to identify an approved residential
subdivision for a project located in the City. Said signs shall
be removed upon issuance of the last certificate of use and
occupancy for units within the subdivision. For the purpose of
this section, subdivision directional signs shall only be
permitted for those residential subdivisions located within the
City.
(6) Special Activities. Special activities signs, under Section 9-
3.547 Special Activities, shall be permitted. Signs and
banners identifying the event may be placed on the site no
earlier than fourteen (14) days prior to the designated activity
and shall be removed within forty-eight (48) hours after the
special activity. Signs and banners shall not exceed forty-
eight (48) square feet in area or six (6) feet in height.
(7) Temporary window/door signs. Temporary window/door signs
shall not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the total window
area. For the purpose of this section, total window area shall
mean the total square footage of window area located on a
specific building elevation for which the temporary sign is
located.
(8) Portable Signs. Portable signs shall not exceed one sign per
tenant, four (4) feet six (6) inches in height, or five (5) square
feet in area. Portable signs shall be professionally designed,
fabricated and maintained, shall be restricted for display only
during business hours, shall be placed on sidewalks on
private property, foyer or portico of building entry not
interfering with pedestrian access, and shall be located within
fifty (50) feet of the tenant main entrance. The Community
Development Director may approve one portable sign for
tenants not visible from the right-of-way within fifty (50) feet of
the tenant main entrance, otherwise Planning Commission
approval is required.
32 01065
(9) Public and Institutional Temporary Banners. Properties in the
Public and Institutional Zones shall be allowed temporary
banners as follows:
(A) A banner program shall be submitted to the City on an
annual basis, memorializing the proposed banners to
be used throughout the year. The program shall detail
the following:
i. Location of all banners
ii. Size of all banners
iii. Anticipated message on each banner
iv. Anticipated timeframe of the posting of each
banner.
(B) A maximum of one banner per each public street,
private street, or railroad right-of-way frontage;
(C) A maximum of one banner facing a public street,
private street, or railroad right-of-way;
(D) Each temporary banner shall not exceed 48 square
feet;
(E) Temporary banners shall only be placed onto the
perimeter fence/wall or building fagade facing and/or
adjacent to the public street, private street, or railroad
right-of-way. Temporary banners cannot be placed
over or extending into the public rights-of-way, onto
trees or landscaping, light standards or higher than 15
feet above adjacent grade;
(F) Temporary banner shall be removed within seven days
of the conclusion of event or special announcement.
(G) Any temporary banner sign exceeding the standards
listed above shall require application of a sign program
to be reviewed and approved by the Planning
Commission and possibly review by the Design Review
Committee prior to issuance of a banner sign permit.
(k) Exceptions. Exceptions to the standards set forth in Section 9-3.543
may be granted by the Planning Commission. In order to grant an
exception, the Planning Commission shall make all of the following
findings:
33 01065
(1) The sign complies with all other applicable criteria of this
section; i7
(2) The scale of the sign will be in harmony with the architectural
design for the building which it will serve;
(3) The sign will not create a hazard to other adjacent properties
or tenants.
(I) Revocation Sign Permit. Any permit issued under this chapter may
be revoked by order of the Planning Commission.
(1) Grounds. The Planning Commission must determine subject
to substantial evidence that one of the following exists:
(A) The permit was issued without or in excess of the
authority provided in this chapter.
(B) The application for permit contained any
misrepresentation of fact.
(C) The sign has been installed inconsistent with or
contrary to approved sign plans.
(2) Hearing. Prior to revoking a sign permit, the Planning
Commission shall hold a hearing concerning said revocation.
Written notice of said hearing shall be given to the permittee
not less than ten (10) days prior to the date of the hearing.
Following the hearing, if the Planning Commission revokes
the sign permit, it shall adopt findings setting forth the basis
for its decision. The findings shall be mailed to the permittee.
(m) Appeals. The applicant or any interested person may appeal
decisions concerning sign permit applications pursuant to Section 9-
2.311 of the Municipal Code.
(n) Enforcement and Penalties.
(1) Temporary signs. This section applies to any temporary sign
described in Section 9-3.543, subsection (f)(2) or subsection
(J).
(A) Temporary signs which obstruct the visibility of traffic,
street signs, signals or emergency equipment and are
determined by the Community Development Director to
pose a hazard to public safety, are subject to
immediate removal by City employees. Temporary f
signs removed in accordance with this subsection shall
34 01065
be stored and the owner notified pursuant to
subsection (C).
(B) Temporary signs placed in the public right-of-way are
subject to the removal provisions set forth in Chapter 9
of Title 7 of this Municipal Code.
(C) Any temporary sign that is improperly marked, affixed,
or otherwise illegally located, is subject to removal by
City employees upon twenty-four (24) hour notice. A
notice of removal will be affixed to the illegal sign during
this twenty-four (24) hour period. A reasonable attempt
will be made to notify the sign owner of the violation
and the need to remove the illegal sign. An owner of an
illegal temporary sign given notice to remove the sign
may file a written request for an administrative hearing
by the Community Development Director, if he or she
disputes whether the sign is illegal. This written request
must be filed prior to the expiration of the twenty-four
(24) hour period of notice. The sign will not be removed
until the administrative hearing is conducted. The
Community Development Director must hold an
administrative hearing within seventy-two (72) hours of
receipt of written request to consider whether the sign
is illegal. If the Community Development Director finds
that the sign does not meet all applicable requirements
of this Code for temporary signs, the owner shall
remove the sign within twenty-four (24) hours. If the
sign is not removed, the City will cause the sign to be
removed and it will be stored at City offices for a period
of ten (10) days. If the sign is not retrieved by the owner
within ten (10) days, the sign will be destroyed or
disposed of by the City.
(D) Removal of a sign, when authorized by this Code, may
be done by officers of Police Services, Building
Inspectors, Planners, or by a Code Enforcement
Officer.
(2) Other illegal or abandoned signs. This section applies to any
other sign that is constructed, erected or installed in violation
of this section; improperly maintained; abandoned; illegal;
unsafe; or the sign permit has terminated, been revoked or is
otherwise in violation of this section. An "abandoned sign"
shall mean any sign remaining in place or maintained for a
period of ninety (90) days which no longer advertises or
35 01065
identifies an ongoing business, product, or service available
on the business premises where the sign is located. 1
r �
(A) Notice of violation. Where it is determined that a sign is
illegal or abandoned, the Community Development
Director, or his or her designee, shall mail or deliver
notice to the owner of the sign. If the notice cannot be
sent or delivered to the owner, then the notice shall be
attached to the sign. The notice shall give the owner an
opportunity to cure the violation or to appeal the City's
determination to remove without notice and shall
include instructions for how to request a hearing or
appeal. An invoice for costs may be included with the
notice.
(B) Removal. If the City is required to remove any signs or
if no response is made to a notice of violation within ten
(10) days of mailing of the notice, the sign may be
removed by the City. The sign will be stored by the City
for a period of thirty (30) days and may be reclaimed
by the owner after the payment of all removal and
storage costs. Any sign not reclaimed within such time,
may be destroyed or disposed of by the City. In the
event the responsible party does not reclaim the sign,
or pay all fees assessed by the City, the City may
recover its costs through the cost recovery mechanism
identified in this section.
(C) Hearing.
L Unless stated otherwise in this section, any
person who has received a notice and/or invoice
pursuant to this section may request a hearing.
Any hearing request must be in writing to the
Community Development Director within ten
(10) business days of the date of the mailing of
the notice/invoice. The request for hearing must
set forth the basis of such person's objection.
ii. Upon receipt of a request for a hearing, the
Community Development Director shall set a
hearing date before a hearing officer appointed
by the City Manager within thirty (30) days of
receipt of the request for a hearing. The Director
shall provide the person requesting the hearing
at least five (5) days' advance notice of the
hearing. The hearing date may be changed by r
36 01065
mutual consent of the Community Development
Director, the person requesting the hearing, and
the hearing officer. At the hearing, the person
requesting the hearing will have an opportunity
to present evidence supporting his/her position.
iii. Within ten (10) days following the conclusion of
the hearing, the hearing officer shall render a
written decision. A copy of this decision shall be
promptly sent to the responsible party (also
referred to as the "appellant").
iv. If no appeal is filed, the responsible party, within
seven (7) days, following the finality of the
determination of the hearing officer, shall
commence the repairs or improvements or
removal ordered, and such work shall be
completed within thirty (30) days from the
commencement thereof, unless otherwise
agreed to by the Community Development
Director.
(D) Penalties.
L Fines. A violation of this section may be
punishable by fines up to the following amounts:
a. For a first violation, one hundred dollars
($100) for the first day of the violation
plus ten dollars ($10) per day that the
violation continues after the first day.
b. For the second violation within one year
of the first violation, two hundred dollars
($200) for the first day of the violation
plus twenty dollars ($20) per day that the
violation continues after the first day.
C. For the third and each subsequent
violation within one year of the first
violation, five hundred dollars ($500) for
the first day of the violation plus fifty ($50)
per day that the violation continues after
the first day
ii. Nuisance. Notwithstanding any other provision
of this section, any illegal or abandoned sign is
37 01065
declared a nuisance and may be abated
pursuant to this Municipal Code.
iii. In addition to the above, every violation of any
provision of this section shall be punishable as
set forth in Chapter 2 of Title 1.
SECTION 5.San Juan Capistrano Municipal Code, title 9, Land Use, appendix A,
Definitions, is hereby amended as follows:
APPENDIX A. DEFINITIONS
Flag: A visual display device, with or without copy, usually rectangular in
shape made of flexible material, usually cloth, that is attached to a support
structure usually on one side such that display does not easily maintain its
shape without wind.
Produce stand: A temporary, generally open-air, structure stationed for the
sale of produce or related items.
Sign: Any medium of visual communication, including copy, structure,
component parts, and humans which is used or intended to be used to
attract attention to and identify an establishment, product, service, activity,
location, convey a message, or to provide information.
Sign area: The area of the sign measured as set forth in Section 9-
543(b)(7).
Sign, banner: A visual display device, with or without copy, usually
rectangular in shape made of flexible material, usually cloth, paper, or
plastic, that is attached to a support structure or building fagade on at least
two sides such that display maintains its shape.
Sign, billboard: An off-site sign used for advertising purposes and whose
copy or message is changed from time to time.
Sign, building -mounted: A sign affixed to or painted on a building, including
awning, window, or canopy.
Sign, commercial: Any sign which is intended to attract attention to a
commercial activity, business, commodity, service, entertainment or
38 01065
attraction sold or offered, and which is to be viewed from public streets or
' public parking areas.
Sign, construction: A sign containing information pertaining to a future
development or ongoing construction on the site where the sign is located,
including the name of the project, developer, contractor, architect, financing
source, future occupant(s), and other information directly related to the
development.
Sign copy: Any words, letters, numbers, designs, logos, or other symbolic
representations incorporated into the face of a sign.
Sign, directional: A sign directing motorists or pedestrians to parking or
building entrances or providing similar directional information.
Sign, externally illuminated: A sign which a source of light is used in order
to make readable by projecting light onto or around the message or copy of
the sign.
Sign face: The exterior surface of sign, exclusive of structural supports, on
which is placed the sign copy.
Sign, freestanding: A sign supported by a base, uprights, or braces placed
upon or into the ground and detached from any building.
Sign, freestanding pole: A sign supported upon the ground and mounted on
poles and not attached to any building.
Sign, freestanding monument: A sign that is supported by a solid base of
masonry, brick, block, or wood.
Sign height: The height of a sign measured as set forth in Section 9-
3.543(b)(7).
Sign, identification: A sign whose commercial copy is limited to the name,
type of business, and address of the building, business, office,
establishment, person, or activity.
Sign, internally illuminated: A sign that a source of light is projected through
a transparent material that consists of the letters of the message or sign
copy.
Sign, major tenant: A business in a multi -tenant center which occupies more
than fifteen (15) percent of the net building square footage of a building or
whose building area is designated as a major tenant suite by the Planning
Commission as part of an approved sign program.
Sign, manipulated by an individual: A sign that is carried, spun, tossed, or
39 01065
otherwise handled or controlled by a person.
Sign, marquee: A building -mounted sign which is attached flush to or
painted on the front of a marquee or similar architectural projection.
Sign, mobile billboard: An advertising display that is attached to a mobile,
nonmotorized vehicle, device, or bicycle, that carries, pulls, or transports a
sign or billboard, and is for the primary purpose of advertising.
Sign, multi -faced: A single sign having two or more faces.
Sign, multiple: A sign structure to which are attached two (2) or more
separate signs.
Sign, mural: An original work of art that is applied or attached to an exterior
wall. A mural shall be considered a wall sign if it contains words, logos,
trademarks or graphic representation of any person, product or service that
identify a business.
Sign, neon: A sign of clear glass tubing to create sign copy using a neon
gas as a visible illuminating light source.
Sign, off-site: A sign referring to a person, establishment, merchandise,
service, event, or entertainment which is not located, sold, produced,
manufactured, provided, or furnished on the premises where the sign is
located.
Sign, on-site: A sign referring to a person, establishment, merchandise,
service, event, or entertainment which is located, sold, produced,
manufactured, provided, or furnished on the premises where the sign is
located.
Sign, pedestrian: A small sign readable primarily from the abutting sidewalk
or other walkway, but generally not from the street.
Sign permit: An entitlement from the City to place or erect a sign.
Sign, portable: Any sign, other than a mobile sign, designated or
constructed in such a manner that it can be moved or relocated without
involving any structural or support changes. Portable signs are designed to
be moved easily and are not permanently affixed to the ground, a structure,
or building, or vehicle.
Sign, projecting: A building -mounted sign where the face is not parallel to
the building, but which projects out at an angle.
Sign, real estate: A sign indicating that the premises on which the sign is
located are for sale, lease, or rent.
40 01065
Sign, roof: A sign erected upon or above the roof eave of a building or other
structure.
Sign, separated panel: A single sign composed of individual panels
separated by air space between the panels.
Sign size: See definition for "sign area."
Sign structure: The structural supports, uprights, and bracing for a sign.
Sign, temporary: A sign utilized to for an interim period.
Sign under canopy: A sign suspended beneath a projecting canopy,
walkway cover, or awning ceiling; said signs are considered building -
mounted.
Sign, valance: Cloth, vinyl, fabric or similar material that hangs from the
edge of an awning or canopy.
Sign, wall: A sign attached to, erected against, or painted onto a wall of a
building or other structure with the exposed face of the sign in a plane
parallel to the wall.
Sign, window: Any written representation, emblem or other figure or similar
character painted on or otherwise affixed to a window, excepting that portion
of sign copy that identifies days and hours a business is open; any interior
sign within five (5) feet of any window and visible from off the subject
building site shall be considered a window sign.
SECTION 6.If any provision of this Ordinance or its application to any person or
circumstance is held invalid, such invalidity has no effect on the other provisions or
applications of the Ordinance that can be given effect without the invalid provision or
application, and to this extent, the provisions of this Ordinance are severable. The City
Council declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance irrespective of the invalidity
of any portion thereof.
SECTION 7. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and
cause it, or a summary of it, to be published once within fifteen (15) days of adoption in a
newspaper of general circulation printed and published within the City of San Juan
Capistrano, and shall post a certified copy of this Ordinance, including the vote for and
against the same, in the Office of the City Clerk in accordance with California Government
Code Section 36933.
SECTION 8. The City Council hereby directs staff to prepare, execute and file a
Notice of Exemption with the Orange County Clerk within five working days after the
passage and adoption of this Ordinance.
41 01065
SECTION 9.The record of proceedings relating to this Ordinance are located at
City Hall 32400 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. The custodian of
records is the Community Development Director.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of San Juan
Capistrano on this 161h day of April 2019.
BR I . MARYOTT, MAYOR
ATTEST:
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) ss.
CITY OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO )
I, MARIA MORRIS, City Clerk of the City of San Juan Capistrano, do hereby certify that
the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Ordinance No. 1065 which was regularly
introduced and placed upon its first reading at the Regular Meeting of the City Council on
the 2nd day of April 2019 and that thereafter, said Ordinance was duly adopted and passed
at the Regular Meeting of the City Council on the 16th day of April 2019 by the following
vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Reeve, Taylor, Farias, Bourne, and Mayor Maryott
NOES COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
C —
i
RIA MORRIS, CjVY CLERK
42 01065
5
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) ss AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
CITY OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO )
I, MARIA MORRIS, declare as follows:
That I am the duly appointed and qualified City Clerk of the City of San Juan Capistrano;
That in compliance with State laws, Government Code section 36933(1) of the State of
California, on the 3rd day of April 2019, at least 5 days prior to the adoption of the
ordinance, I caused to be posted a certified copy of the proposed ordinance entitled:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO,
CALIFORNIA APPROVING CODE AMENDMENT 18-006 TO AMEND SAN
JUAN CAPISTRANO MUNICIPAL CODE, TITLE 9, LAND USE, TO
UPDATE SECTION 9-3.543, SIGNS, AND APPENDIX A, DEFINITIONS
This document was posted in the Office of the City Clerk
I,
MARIA MORRIS, CITY CLERK
San Juan Capistrano, California
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) ss AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
CITY OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO )
I, MARIA MORRIS, declare as follows:
That I am the duly appointed and qualified City Clerk of the City of San Juan Capistrano;
that in compliance with State laws, Government Code section 36933(1) of the State of
California.
On the 17th day of April, I caused to be posted a certified copy of Ordinance No. 1065,
adopted by the City Council on April 16, 2019, entitled:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO,
CALIFORNIA APPROVING CODE AMENDMENT 18-006 TO AMEND SAN
JUAN CAPISTRANO MUNICIPAL CODE, TITLE 9, LAND USE, TO
UPDATE SECTION 9-3.543, SIGNS, AND APPENDIX A, DEFINITIONS
This document was posted in the Office of the City Clerk
MARIA MORRIS,CITY CLERK
San Juan Capistrano, California
43 01065