Foster City City Council
April 15, 2024

1 Chapter 15.1217.59

SIGN CONTROL
SECTIONS: Page

17.59.010 Purpose, Objective and Intent ............................................................................................... 2

17.59.020 Applicability ......................................................................................................................... 2

17.59.030 Definitions............................................................................................................................. 3

17.59.040 Sign permits .......................................................................................................................... 8

17.59.050 Measurement of Signs......................................................................................................... 18

17.59.060 Exempt Signs ...................................................................................................................... 21

17.59.070 Prohibited Signs .................................................................................................................. 27

17.59.080 Temporary Signs ................................................................................................................. 31

17.59.090 Public Convenience Signs................................................................................................... 37

17.59.100 Sign Development Standards .............................................................................................. 37

17.59.110 Signs for Specific Use ......................................................................................................... 48

17.59.120 Master Sign Program .......................................................................................................... 49

17.59.130 Construction and Maintenance ........................................................................................... 57

17.59.140 Enforcement ........................................................................................................................ 58

Purpose, objective and intent.

Definitions.

Sign permits required.

Permit application.

Permit fees.

Sign permit review process.

Criteria for sign approval.

Approving authority review.

Appeals.

Sign permit issuance.

Additional permits and limitations.

Expiration of sign permit.

Construction and maintenance.

General provisions.

Prohibited signs.

Exempt signs.

Temporary signs.

Public convenience signs.

Signs allowed for specific uses.

Enforcement.
2 Sign guidelines for specific developments.
* Prior ordinance history: Ord. 349.

17.59.010 15.12.010 Purpose, Objective and Intent..

The purpose of this chapter is to establish standards for signage which help people find what they need without difficulty or confusion and to help preserve and improve the appearance of the city. Therefore, all signs shall be regulated to assure that they promote both the goals and objectives of the community and the public health, safety and general welfare.

This chapter establishes standards for the erection, display, safety, and maintenance of signs which are intended to meet the following objectives:

Public Welfare. The city, as a unique planned community, has greatly avoided the influences of traditional community development where signing proliferated to a point detrimental to the value and quality of the community before being regulated. The opportu nity to achieve an environment free from such circumstances exists in the city and therefore shall be pursued wherever possible in order to build a community of the highest value and quality in which all citizens may take pride and enjoyment.

Healthy Economy. An objective of this chapter is to allow businesses to identify themselves so that clients can find them with a minimum of confusion. This is achieved by effective signing which is necessary, concise, well designed and well executed. It is recognized that signs are an economical and effective means of communicating information and are thus an important asset to most businesses.

Freedom of Speech for Signs. The city recognizes the importance of signs in the exercise of free speech.

The city finds it necessary to regulate the time, place, and manner of the placement of certain signs for the following reasons:

A. 1. Prohibition of temporary noncommercial right -of-way signs on public street medians, bridges, public utility box or any poles used for public utility, traffic control signs, traffic signals, or street signs is necessary to: prevent visual distractions to motorists which create traffic hazards, prevent unsafe road conditions, and to prevent eyesores from proliferating along public streets.

B. 2. Regulation of the size of temporary noncommercial right -of-way signs is necessary for safety and aesthetic reasons, specifically, that the strong winds that are common in Foster City would remove the signs, creating hazards and accumulation of debris, and extremely large or illuminated signs would create a distraction to motorists. (Ord. 651 § 2, 2022)

17.59.020 15.12.020 Applicability.

The standards in this chapter shall apply to all signs in all zoning districts in the city constructed or physically altered on or after the effective date of this title. Only signs authorized by this chapter shall be allowed unless otherwise expressly provided in this chapter.

3 17.59.02017.59.030 Definitions.. As used in this chapter, the terms set out below are defined to mean the following:
“Abandoned Sign” means a sign which no longer directs, advertises, or identifies a legal business establishment, product or activity on the premises where such sign is displayed. “Advertising Structure” means a structure erected or used for the purpose of supporting or displaying a message or sign.
“Affected Wall Surface Area” means the solid wall surface area between the top story row of windows and the roof line running the length of the building elevation (or the subject portion of the building elevation) on which the sign is proposed to be placed or the surface area of any separate element of the building on which the sign is proposed to be placed, provided that the separate element is located at or near the top of the building.
“Aggregate Total Glass Surface Area ” means the product of multiplying the length times the width of the storefront glass surface along a single building elevation with the proviso that window panel separations (mullions, grids, etc.) that are less than six inches wide shall be counted withi n the aggregate total glass surface area available for signage, and window panel separations or building structural elements separating windows that are greater than six inches shall not be included within the aggregate total glass surface area available for signage. In the case of stores with more than one building elevation with window glass, the aggregate total glass surface area available for the placement of signage shall be calculated based on the dimensions of each individual elevation. Unused amounts of aggregate total glass surface area from one elevation shall not be applied to any other elevation.
“Approving Authority” means that person or body ( planningcommunity development director, planning commission or city council) which has authority pursuant to the provisions of this chapter to approve an application for a sign permit.
“Awning” means a shelter supported entirely from the exterior wall of a building and composed of nonrigid materials except for the supporting framework.
“Banner” means a sign composed of flexible material either totally or partially secured to a structure and when partially secured is intended to be moved by the wind.

“Building face” means the outer surface of a building or portion of a building given to an individual business, including exposed foundation, windows, doors, parapet, fascia and wall area, but not including any overhanging fascia, canopy, marquee, awning, or roof surface.

“Billboard” means a sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service , or entertainment conducted, sold or offered at a location other than the premises on which the sign is located. “Building Frontage” means the width of the face of a building abutting the public right-of-way or primary pedestrian access.
“Bulletin Board” means a board, either in a freestanding kiosk or on a wall, on which temporary bulletins or notices are posted.
4 “Business Face; Frontage ” means the exterior surface of a building given to an individual business, including exposed foundation, windows, doors, parapet, fascia, and wall area, but not including any overhanging fascia, canopy, marquee, awning, or roof surface. “Business Frontage (primary)” means the width of the face of a business abutting, or if not abutting, exposed to a public right-of-way. In the case of multiple frontages abutting public rights-of-way, the longest frontage shall be considered the primary business frontage. “Business Frontage (secondary)” means the width of the face of a business abutting a secondary street, freeway, parking lot, or pedestrian access.
“Cabinet; Can; Lightbox; Panel Sign” means an internally illuminated sign consisting of a frame with a continuous translucent message panel.
“Canopy” means a permanent, roof-like shelter structure extending from part or all of a building elevation for the purpose of providing shade or shelter.
“Canopy Sign” means a sign mounted to the face and constructed of some durable material which may or may not project over a public right-of-way, above, or suspended below the canopy structure. “Changeable Copy Sign” means a sign that is designed so that characters or letters can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign. “Channel Letter” means a sign that includes a three -dimensional letter that may include internal illumination.
“Commercial Office Building” means a building used for administrative, professional, and business office purposes.
“Commercial Center” means a group of five or more contiguous businesses which utilizesutilize common off-street parking and access and, which exhibit a common architectural design. “Commercial Uses” means a retail or similar use in a commercial center or on a property zoned C-1 (retail business), C -A (commercial automobile repair and service), C -2/PD (town center commercial/planned development), or CM/PD (commercial mix/planned development district). “Construction Sign” means any sign giving the name or names of principal contractors, architects, and lending institutions responsible for construction on the site where the sign is placed, together with other information included thereon. See Section 17.59.080K(C) of this chapter. “Directional Sign” means an incidental sign designed to guide or direct pedestrian or vehicular traffic. “Freestanding or monument Sign” means a sign not attached to a building or other structure, but which ispermanent sign attached to the ground and which exhibits sign graphics on one or two faces, which, if two faces. Both shall be the same on both faces where one side of the sign’s copy area shall satisfy any sign area requirements.
“Freeway” means State Highway 92 or State Highway 101.
5 “Halo Lighting; Lit” means illumination of individual letters , numbers, or graphics having an opaque surface, by the use of internal, reverse illumination where the light source is not directly visible. “Identification Sign” means a permanent sign which identifies a building, occupant, or activity conducted on the premises.
“Illegal Sign.” See Section 17.59.140B(B) of this chapter. “Illumination (external) ” means any light from a source outside the illumination of a sign and which illuminates the sign by reflection. No directly or transparently exposed a light source that is included in this definitiondirected towards and shines on the face of a sign. “Illumination (internal) ” means any light from a source contained within a sign and which is seen translucently through the face of the sign. No directly or transparently exposed itself and the light source is not directly visible. Such signs shall be required to include a dimming device to reduce the intensity of light source is included in this definitionwhen necessary.
“Industrial Center” means a group of industrial buildings which utilizesutilize common off-street parking and access, and which exhibits a common architectural design. "Inflatable Sign” means a sign consisting of a flexible envelope of material (s) that gains it shape from blowing air into its volume.
“Logo” means a symbol, picture, or other graphic representation used by an entity to consistently identify itself.

“Mural” means a picture or decoration which is painted on, or otherwise applied directly to an external wall.

“Marquee Sign” means a sign with changeable copy that may be a canopy or roof -like projection above the entrance to a theater, hotel, or other building, or a wall sign attached to a building , or a freestanding sign on the premises where the business is located.
"Master Sign Program” means a plan which identifies the placement, construction, size, materials, colors, method of lighting, and other related requirements for those signs that are subject to the plan. "Monument Sign” means a sign that is erected on the ground or on a constructed base that is designed as an architectural element for the site.
“Neon” means illumination affectedtubes illuminated by a light source consisting of a neon or other gas tube, other gases, LEDs, or other light sources which isare bent to form letters, symbols, or other shapes. “Nonconforming Sign.”. See Section 17.59.140A(A) of this chapter. “Off Premise Sign” means a sign that is not located on the property of business which it is advertising. “Office Center” means a group of commercial office buildings which utilizesutilize common off-street parking and access, and which exhibitsexhibit a common architectural design. 6 “Office Use” means an administrative, professional, and business office use in an office center or on a property zoned C -O (Commercial Office District), C -1 (Neighborhood business district), C -2 (General Business District), or C-M (Commercial Mix District)
“Painted Wall Sign” means a sign painted directly on a building’s surface and shall comply with the dimensional development standards for wall signs in Section 17.59.080. “Parapet Or Parapet Wall” means that portion of a building wall which rises above the roof. “Pedestrian Access (primary)” means the single doorway located and designed to be the major entry to a building.
“Pedestrian Access (secondary)” means doorways, other than the primary pedestrian access, for gaining entry to a building.
“Portable Sign” means a sign not permanently affixed to the ground or a structure on the premises it is intended to occupy.
“Projecting; Blade Sign” means sign attached to a building wall or structure but which protrudes out from mounted sign that projects perpendicular to the wall or structure at an angle, as opposed to being attached flush against the wall or structurebuilding’s surface.
“Promotional Sales Sign” means a sign erected on a temporary basis to promote the sale of new products, new management, new hours of operation, a new service, to promote a special sale, or similar purpose. “Property Frontage” means the linear dimension of a parcel of property abutting a public street. “Public Convenience Sign.” See Section 17.59.090 of this chapter. “Pylon Sign” means a freestanding sign with a visible support structure. “Real Estate Sign.” See Section 17.59.060D(B) of this chapter. “School” means a public or private elementary, junior high school or high school. “Setback” means the distance measured to the property line. “Sign” means a visual communications device used to convey a message to the viewer but does. A sign shall not include lighting or paint used to highlight the architectural features of a building which were approved pursuant to a use permit oran architectural review application and also does not include suchany devices placed inside a building which are not defined as window signs pursuant to this Section.

“Sign area” means the area of the background surface, and frame if present, on which the sign graphics are displayed. The area of a sign without a background surface, or where a significantly larger building element such as a wall or fascia serves as the b ackground, shall be taken as the smallest geometric figure enclosing the graphics.

The area of a freestanding sign shall be taken as the area of only one face even though sign graphics are exhibited on both faces if both faces are identical and not more than twelve inches apart. 7 “Sign Area” See section 17.59.050A of this chapter.
“Sign Base” means the post(s) or supporting structure between the ground and the background or frame (if present) of a freestanding or monument sign.

“Sign can” means the exterior covering or cabinet of a sign including the frame, face(s), and background.

“Sign Copy” means any words, letters, numbers, figures, designs , or other symbolic representations incorporated into a sign, but does not include color.
“Sign Graphics” means all lettering, logos, pictures, symbols, patterns , and depictions, including color, on a sign.

“Sign guidelines” means a set of criteria and a format approved by resolution of the planning commission pursuant to Section of this chapter for all signs to be located in a specific development.

“Sign Height of A Freestanding Sign ” means the distance from the average surface grade surrounding the base of the sign to the top of its highest element, including any structural element. Where a sign is placed on a mound, the height of the mound shall be included. “Sign Use Permit” means an application to increase the normally allowed sign area, number of signs, types of signs, and/or to allow alternative locations of signs. “Temporary Noncommercial Right -Of-Way signSigns” means a temporary sign for noncommercial purposes located in the city’s right -of-way. Temporary noncommercial right -of-way signs shall not be subject to the provisions of Section 17.59.060M.
“Temporary Sign.”. See Section 17.59.080 of this chapter. “Typical Sign Permit” means a sign permit which is not a use permit sign request or a variance sign permit.

“Under-canopy sign” means a sign suspended from an overhead element such as a canopy, marquee or roof.

“Use permit sign request” means an application to increase normally allowed sign area up to fifty percent more than otherwise allowed for such sign, or to allow additional numbers and types of signs, or to allow alternate locations of signs. See Section (B) of this chapter.

“Variance Sign Permit” means a sign permit whichthat allows an increase in the maximum standards set forth in this chapter such as height, size and location of any sign, based on practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships, or results inconsistent with the general intent and purpose of this chapter. See Section 17.59.040B.2(c)(C) of this chapter.
“Vehicle Display; Wrap Sign” means a sign attached to, or wrapping the surface of a motor vehicle which is parked on public or private property with the primary purpose of advertising to the public. 8 “Wall Sign” means a sign attached to and flat against a building wall or structure. “Window Sign” means all signs in any nonresidential zoning district, visible from outside the building, and placed in any of the following locations (see Section 17.59.060E of this chapter for window signs exempt from sign permit requirements):

1. 1. Affixed to or placed within three (3) feet of a window;

2. 2. Neon signs placed within ten (10) feet of a window (see Section 17.59.100B(G (TABLE 3-A) of this chapter regarding prohibition of these neon signs); or

3. 3. Neon signs placed ten (10) feet or more from a window (see Section 17.59.100B (TABLE 3-A) of this chapter regarding sign permits required for these neon signs). (Ord. 651 § 3, 2022; Ord. 533 § 1 (part), 2006; Ord. 520 § 2 Exh. A (part), 2005; Ord. 517 § 2 Exh. A (A), 2005; Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

17.59.03017.59.040 15.12.030 Sign permits required.

No sign shall be authorized, constructed, placed, altered, or moved except in conformity with these regulations and without first obtaining a sign permit where required, paying the fees prescribed therefor, and otherwise complying with all other applicable provisions of federal, state and local law, except as exempt pursuant to Section 17.59.060. (Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989) . No sign permit is required for exempt signs, or for cleaning or other normal maintenance of a properly approved sign, unless a structural or electrical change is made.

A. 15.12.040 Permit application.. To obtain a sign permit, the applicant shall first submit a permit application form, plans and/or specifications, and the required fees to the community development director or his or, her or their authorized representative. Depending on the sign proposal, one of the three following application types willand requirements shall apply:

1. A. Typical Application. Application for a Sign Permit. To obtain a permit for a typical sign, shall be made upon forms furnished by the Director and accompanied by the required fee and working drawings adequate to show:
(a) Site plan showing
(i) Location of building attached signs (tenant space location) (b) Detailed elevation of sign(s) both new and existing, showing (i) Dimensions of sign;
(ii) Sign Area;
(iii) Color;
9 (iv) Size and letter style of sign copy;
(v) Size and style of proposed logo;
(vi) Sign materials; and
(vii) Method of illumination.
(c) Schematic building elevation showing
(i) Dimensions of building frontage; and
(ii) Exact location of existing and proposed signage (Photo simulations may be submitted for sign copy changes).
(d) Installation detail showing cross section through the sign and specifications of hardware and materials.

2. Fees. The applicant must submit shall pay all applicable fees as set in the master fee and service charges schedule as adopted by resolution by the city council.

B. Criteria for Review.

1. Community Development Director Review.
(a) Administrative Sign permit. A typical sign is one that meets the minimum requirements as set forth in this chapter and does not require a use permit or variance.

2. Planning Commission Review.
(a) Signs Use Permit for a master sign program and/or modifications to an application, accompanied by plans, supporting information, and an application fee as established by city council resolution. The required content of the application, supporting information, and plans shall be existing master sign program. The planning commission shall review and approve all signage requiring a master sign program , including modifications , e xcept minor modifications as determined by the Community Development Director under Section

17.59.120C.2.

B. Use Permit Type Sign Permit. To obtain a use permit type sign permit which is allowed under Section of this chapter, the application procedure and required submittals are the same as for a typical sign permit, except that the applicant must also submit information supporting the request for additional signage.

Examples of reasons for requesting additional signing may include parcel size, configuration or locations, location of the building(s) on the parcel or unique qualities of the use of the parcel, any of which must relate to the finding that the additional signing is in the public interest.

10 C. Variance Type Sign Permit. To obtain a variance type sign permit which is allowed under Section of this chapter, the application procedure and required submittal shall be the same as for a typical sign permit, except that the applicant must also submit information supporting the findings required by Section .

Examples which may be criteria to allow a variance type permit are: special circumstances applicable to the property, such as size, shape, topography, location or surroundings such that the strict application of the standards contained in this chapter depr ives the property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and under identical use classification, and that the variance does not constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent with the limitation upon other properties in the vicinity with the same use classification as the subject property. (Ord. 432 § 1 (part), 1996: Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

15.12.060 Permit fees.

A permit fee shall be required and assessed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter or as set forth in the fee schedule adopted by resolution by the governing body per the following:

A. Any sign requiring plan review and approval by the planning director and/or building official;

B. Any sign requiring approval by the planning commission or city council;

C. Any sign requiring a use permit or variance;

D. Any sign installed illegally. This fee shall be double the normal fee, if the sign was installed prior to obtaining a sign permit;
E. Appeals;

F. Any sign, erected by nonprofit and community interest organizations such as schools, churches, organized youth groups, service clubs and organizations deemed similar by the planning director may be exempt from payment of the required fees. (Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

15.12.070 Sign permit review process.

All sign permit applications, plans, specifications and other required material shall be received by the planning/code enforcement division for distribution and review. Review and approval will be as follows:

A. The community development director shall, within ten working days approve, approve with conditions, deny, or schedule the item for consideration by the planning commission. The community development director shall be required to approve all signs, ex cept sign use permits or sign variances which must be approved by the planning commission and those signs exempt under Section of this chapter.

B. The planning commission shall be required to approve all sign use permits or sign variances.

C. Signs requiring a use permit or variance shall require an advertised public hearing with public notice provided as required by Section of Title , of the Foster City Municipal Code. The sign permit application shall be agendized for the first available planning commission meeting as determined by the community development director.

D. The community development director shall have the authority to determine what application(s) are required for a given sign proposal; to administer the sign review process; to establish submittal and review requirements; 11 and to determine the completeness of applications for any actions allowed or required under the provisions of this chapter.

E. The community development director shall have the authority to administratively approve minor modifications to approved sign permits with respect to colors, materials, elevations, site plans, landscape plans, lighting, and other physical changes of a similar nature. Modifications to approved permits shall be minor in nature, shall not affect the basic character of the sign; nor shall such changes deviate from the intent of the planning commission as determined by the community development director, or from the requirements of this chapter. (Ord. 432 § 1 (part), 1996: Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

15.12.080 Criteria for sign approval.

A sign shall be approved if it is in conformance with the provisions of this chapter and if the sign complies with the following criteria:

A. Typical Signs.

1. Signs are restrained in character and are no larger than necessary for adequate identification.

2. Signs shall serve primarily to identify the business, the establishment, or the type of activity conducted on the same premises, or the interest being exhibited or
offered for sale, rent or lease thereon; provided, however, that products and services may be identified if determined by the planning commission to be necessary to the premises or nature of the overall activity identified by the sign.

3. Signs used as identification devices, shall not excessively compete for the citizen’s attention.

4. Signs shall be harmonious with the materials, color, texture, size, shape, height, location and design of the building, landscaping, property or environment of which it is a part. Signs attached to buildings shall be incorporated into the architectur al features of the building in placement, style, proportions, materials and finish.

5. Sign designs shall be consistent with professional graphic standards.

6. Freestanding or monument signs as defined in Section , shall require a landscape planter around the base of the sign, containing shrubs and/or groundcover and flowering annual and/or perennial flowers. The size of such landscape planter shall be approved as part of the sign permit. Planting plans shall be submitted and shall include the size, species, location and spacing of plant materials, and method of separation between planter and adjacent area.

7. Sign illumination, where allowed by provisions of this chapter, shall be at the lowest level consistent with adequate identification and readability.

8. Sign illumination shall be as defined in Sections Definitions, and shall comply with the provisions of Section .

9. Internally illuminated signs, where the entire face of the sign is illuminated rather than just the graphics, are not in keeping with the desired character of signing within the city and shall, unless otherwise allowed by provisions of this chapter, be prohibited.
12 10. No sign shall be illuminated except where expressly allowed in the provisions of this chapter.

(a)(b) B. Signs Requiring a Use Permit.

1. .
(i) The planning commission may, upon approval of a use permit, allow additional sign types, amounts and locations over and above those set forth in any Section of this chapter.

(ii) 2. Under such use permit sign request approval, the planning commission may increase normally allowed sign area by up to fifty percent (50%) for any sign, and may allow such additional numbers and types of signs as may be deemed appropriate.

3. The intent of this section is to facilitate creation of thorough and integrated signing systems for multi-tenant developments, to allow additional, larger, or different types of signs where conditions warrant, and to encourage expressive, high quality sign designs which will enhance the character or value of the community.

(iii) 4. Prior to approving a use permit sign request, the planning commission shall find that the additional signing is in the public interest and that the signs will not, under the circumstances of the particular case, be detrimental to the health, safety, morals, comfort and general welfare of the persons residing or working in the neighborhood of such proposed use, or injurious or detrimental to property or improvements in the neighborhood or the general welfare of the city sign complies with the requirements of this chapter.

(b)(c) C. SignsSign permits requiring a variance.

1. . The planning commission may, upon approval of a variance for signage, allow for the approval of sign permits when practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships , or results inconsistent with the general intent and purpose of this chapter occur by reason of the maximum as a result of parcel size and/or shape, topography, location, or surroundings such that the strict application of the standards set forthcontained in this chapter such as height, size and location of any sign, a sign variance may be granted.

2. The planning commission may, upon approval of a variance sign permit, allow an increase in allowed height, an increase in size more than fifty percent or a reduction in required setbacks.

3. deprives the property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and under identical use classification. Prior to approving a variance sign permit, the planning commission shall make the following findings:
(i) Because of special circumstances applicable to the property, including size, shape, topography, location or surroundings, the strict 13 application of the standards contained in this chapter deprives such property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and under identical use classification.
(ii) The variance does not constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity with the same use classification as the subject property. (Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

15.12.090 Approving authority review.

The appropriate approving authority shall either approve, approve with modifications, or deny the application in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and any other applicable requirements of federal, state, or local law.

C. In the event an application is denied, Review and Approval.

1. Upon acceptance of a sign application, the Planning Division shall review the request for compliance with the standards and requirements of this chapter, and with any standards established in a Master Sign Program.

2. No permit for construction will be issued until design review, if required, has been granted and the application has been found in conformance with the approved design.

3. The community development director shall have the authority to determine what application(s) are required for all proposed signage; to administer the sign review process; to establish submittal and review requirements; and to determine the completeness of applications for any actions allowed or required under the provisions of this chapter.

4. The community development director shall have the authority to administratively approve minor modifications to approved sign permits with respect to colors, materials, elevations, site plans, landscape plans, lighting, and other physical changes of a simil ar nature. Modifications to approved permits shall be minor in nature, shall not affect the basic character of the sign; nor deviate from the intent of the planning commission as determined by the community development director, or from the requirements of this chapter.

5. The community development director may refer any sign permit to the planning commission for comment or final action.

6. The applicant shall obtain a building permit after the issuance of a sign permit.

D. Notice of Decision.

2.1. Written notice of the denialdecision shall be provided to the applicant within fiveten (10) calendar days after the decision is rendered. (Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989) 14 2. 15.12.100 The Notice of Decision and/or Planning Commission Resolution shall clearly state any conditions of approval and applicable appeal provisions.

B.E. Appeals.. In case the applicant or any other person is not satisfied with any decision to approve or deny a sign permit, they may appeal such decision as follows:

1. A. An appeal letter must be submitted specifying the following:

(a) 1. The person making the appeal;

(b) 2. The specific item of appeal, and all supporting documentation;

(c) 3. The basis for such appeal and information substantiating the basis for appeal (e.g. failure to comply with the city’s general plan, state or local laws; or stating reasons why the action of the planningcommunity development director or planning commission would adversely affect surrounding property, the neighborhood, and/or the city); and

(d) 4. The relief or action sought.

2. B. Decisions of the planningcommunity development director may be appealed to the planning commission, and decisions of the planning commission may be appealed to the city council.
(a) Any appeal must be submitted in writing within ten (10) calendar days of the decision and shall be accompanied by an appeal filing fee. , set by resolution of the Council.
(b) Appeals of decisions of the planningcommunity development director shall be submitted to the planning division. The appellant shall be notified in writing of the meeting date.
(a)(c) Appeals of decisions of the planning commission shall be submitted to the city clerk . The appeal shall be agendized for consideration on the earliest available meeting date as determined a hearing by the city, but no later than thirty days from receipt of the appeal and filing fee. council. The appellant shall be notified in writing of the meeting date.
(b)(d) In any appeal, the burden of proof is upon the appellant. (Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)
15 3. 15.12.110 If an appeal is granted and requires a sign to be modified or denied, the sign shall be modified or denied as directed by the body granting the appeal.

C.F. Sign permit issuance.A. .

1. For sign permits issued by the community development director or planning commission, such approval shall not be effective until the following occurs:

1. The permittee acknowledges acceptance of any conditions of approval; and

(a) 2. The appeal period expires, and no appeal is filed; or the applicant agrees in writing that any work undertaken during the appeal period or while any (a)(b) An appeal is being processed is at risk filed and further agrees to modify or remove such sign if so required by a decision on anfinal determination is made by the body denying the appeal.

B. If, upon appeal, a sign permit is modified or denied which was previously granted by the community development director or planning commission, the sign shall be modified or removed as directed by the body granting the appeal. (Ord. 432 § 1 (part), 1996: Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

D.G. 15.12.120 Additional permits and limitations..

In addition to the sign permit, other permitsa building permit may be required, such as a mechanical and/or electrical permit. It shall be the responsibility of the applicant to obtain such additional permits, if required, from the building official.

The issuance or granting of a permit or approval of plans and specifications shall not be construed to be a permit for, or approval of, any violation of the provisions of this chapter. No permit presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this chapter shall be valid, except insofar as the work or use which it authorizes is lawful. (Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

E.H. 15.12.130 Expiration of sign permit.A. .

1. Every permit issued under the provisions of this chapter shall expire by limitation and become null and void if the work authorized by such permit is not commenced within one hundred twentyeighty days (180) from the date of such permit, or if the work authorized is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is commenced, for a period of one hundred twentyeighty (180) days.

2. B. The building officialcommunity development director may extend the time limit for reasonable cause and if no changes are made into the plans and specifications. 16 Denial of a request for time extension may be appealed as provided in Section 17.59.040E.3. (Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989).

15.12.140 Construction and maintenance.

A. Construction-installation. All permanent and temporary signs shall be construed and installed in a professional manner and appearance.

B. Maintenance. Every sign, including but not limited to those signs for which permits are required, shall be maintained in a safe, presentable, and good structural condition at all times, including replacement of defective parts, painting, cleaning and other acts required to maintain the sign, advertising structure, canopy or awning in its originally permitted and installed condition in accordance with the following criteria and with the other applicable provisions of city regulations:

1. Paint. To prevent rust, peeling, flaking, fading or rotting, the permittee of any sign or advertising structure shall, as required, paint all parts and supports thereof unless the same are galvanized or otherwise treated.

2. Repairs. Broken panels, missing letters, defective illumination, torn fabric, flaking or peeling paint and other damage to a sign, advertising structure, awning, canopy or support structure shall be repaired.

3. Clean and Sanitary. All signs or advertising structures and the area surrounding same shall be maintained by the owner thereof in a clean, sanitary and inoffensive condition, and free and clear of all debris, rubbish and obnoxious substances, and any related planted area or landscaping shall be kept trimmed and in a healthy condition.

4. Vacancies. Any sign which advertises a business, commodity, service, entertainment, activity, or event which has been discontinued, or is located on property which has been vacant and unoccupied shall be removed; provided, however, that a blank face (containing no sign graphics) may be substituted. (Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

15.12.150 General provisions.

The planning director shall determine the character of the use of any property or premises in relation to its surroundings, no matter what zoning district it may be located in, or what sign permit requests may be submitted for that use. For example, the di rector shall determine whether a commercial building or tenant located in an industrial zone shall be restricted to an amount and type of signing allowed surrounding industrial uses. (Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

15.12.160 Prohibited signs.

Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the following signs and circumstances are prohibited:

A. Signs which rotate, move mechanically or by the wind (except as allowed by Section of this chapter), flash, blink or reflect light by means of a glossy, polished, or mirrored surface;

B. Searchlights, open flames, balloons, banners (except as allowed by Section of this chapter), pennants and loudspeakers used to call attention to a product, service or property;

C. Signs placed on, affixed to, or erected on or over public property, rights -of-way, or waterways, except signs which are exempt pursuant to Section of this chapter;

17 D. Signs which identify or advertise a product or service not available on the premises, except off-site real estate signs and construction signs allowed pursuant to Sections and of this chapter, and off-site freestanding signs for commercial properties without street frontages, pursuant to Section (B)(2)(a)(ii);

E. Signs erected on roofs or above the first story of multistory buildings, except signs allowed on office buildings six or more stories in height pursuant to Section (C)(2)(e) of this chapter and, with planning commission approval of a sign use permit, on hotels pursuant to Section (B)(2)(a)(i);

F. Signs of nonresidential uses facing directly on residential property;

G. Internally illuminated signs with a directly exposed neon tube, except as may be allowed pursuant to Section of this chapter;

H. Externally illuminated signs where the source of light is directly visible to pedestrians or vehicular traffic;

I. Signs which emit or reflect light by means of direct fluorescence, phosphorescence or “day-glow” colors;

J. Signs facing on a freeway except secondary frontage commercial business identification signs allowed pursuant to Section of this chapter to advertise the sale or lease of the property or premises as provided in this chapter, or to designate the name of the owner or tenant of the premises;

K. Signs which obstruct the visual lines of sight at corners or intersections for drivers of motor vehicles;

L. Signs which may obstruct the free use of any exit, entrance, window vent, emergency access, fire lane or standpipe;

M. Signs which may interfere with, obstruct, confuse or mislead traffic;

N. Any sign illumination which, in the opinion of the community development director, exhibits undue glare;

O. Any sign placed or displayed on vehicles parked primarily for the purpose of displaying the sign;

P. Any sandwich board “A” frame sign or other portable sign, except those signs allowed pursuant to Section of this chapter;

Q. Any sign that utilizes visible guy wires, angle irons or iron frame structures;

R. Changeable copy signs except those specifically allowed by Section (I) (exempt window signs), Section (B)(2)(b) (commercial business signs), Section (B)(3) (gasoline price signs) and Section (E) (quasi-public signs) of this chapter;

S. Any sign indicating a home occupation;

T. Any sign nailed, tacked or otherwise affixed to trees or other vegetation;

U. Any sign consisting of several sheets of paper connected together by perforations, tape, staples or any other means;

18 V. With the exception of signs as provided in subsections A, B and C of Section , the placement of signs in any portion of a city park is prohibited; signs placed in violation of this subsection are subject to immediate removal by a representative of the city authorized to do so by the city manager. If information is provided to the city or included on the sign indicating whom to contact regarding the sign, the city shall provide notice to the contact following removal of the sign;
W. Any other signs not specifically allowed by provisions of this chapter; however, nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit any sign, notice or advertisement required by law. (Ord. 605 § 2, 2016; Ord. 553 § 2 Exh. B, 2010; Ord. 520 § 2 Exh. A (part), 2005; Ord. 517 § 2 Exh. A (B), 2005: Ord. 454 § 1, 1998; Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

17.59.050 15.12.170 Measurement of Signs.

A. Measuring Sign Area.

The area of a sign face includes the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares and rectangles that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, without limitation, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, s ymbols, illustrations, and color.

Supporting structures, such as sign bases and columns, are not included in sign area, provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags.

1. Single-Faced Signs. The sign area of a sign with a single face area is the area of the sign face.
(a) If the sign consists of an integral surface and has a regularly shaped perimeter, the area of the sign shall be calculated as the area within the perimeter.

Area = (X)(Y); where X is the width and Y is the height (b) If the message surface consists of noncontiguous segments or has an irregularly shaped perimeter, then the area of the sign shall be all of the area encompassed within a single continuous rectilinear perimeter of not more than ten (10) straight lines enclo sing the extreme limits of the message surface, and including any color, material, or graphic which is integrated

19 therein which differentiates the message from the background against which it is placed.

Area = [(X1)(Y1)]+[(X2)( Y2)] +[(X3)(Y3)]

20 2. Double-Faced Signs. Where two (2) faces of a double -faced sign are located two (2) feet or less from one another at all points, or located at an interior angle of forty- five (45) degrees or less from one another, the sign area of double -faced signs is computed as the area of one (1) face. Where the two (2) faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face will be used. Where two (2) faces of a double -faced sign are located more than two (2) feet or greater than forty-five ( 45) degrees from one another, both sign faces are counted toward sign area.

3. Multi-Faced Signs. On a multi-faced sign, where at least one interior angle is forty- five (45) degrees or less, the area of two (2) faces (the largest and smallest face) must be summed to determine sign area. In all other situations involving a sign with three (3) or more sides, the sign area will be calculated as the sum of all faces.

B. Height of Sign. The height of a sign is the vertical distance from the uppermost point used to measure sign area to the existing grade immediately below the sign.

C. Frontage.

21 1. Building Frontage. A building’s frontage is considered continuous if projections or recesses in a building wall do not exceed ten (10) feet in any direction. For buildings with two (2) or more frontages, the length of the wall and allowable sign area shall be calculated separately for each building frontage.

2. Street Frontage. The length of street frontage is measured along the property line adjacent to the public right-of-way.

17.59.04017.59.060 Exempt Signs.. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the following signs are declared to be exempt from the requirements of sign permit application, review, approval, and fees, but must adhere to all other regulations of federal, state and local laws:

A. A. TrafficGovernment Signs. Government signs or required by law and essential for public service including: traffic signs ; pavement markings required by state law, city district regulations, or the city engineer.

B. Signs; fire and police signs; signals; devices and markings erected by Federal, State, or local governments, including, but not limited to the San Mateo County, the City of Foster City, and the Estero Municipal Improvement District, county of San Mateo, state of California and United States of America.

B. C. Utility Sign . Signs erected by public utility companies with the permission of the planningcommunity development director which serve the public safety or welfare.

D. Changeable sign copy on changeable copy signs, including, but not limited to, gasoline price signs.

C. E. Interior Signs. Signs placed on the interior of a property and inside of buildings not intended to visible from the public right of way, not including window signs.

D. Address Signs. Residential street address signs for mid and high-rise buildings greater than two (2) stories that are used for building identification. Signs may include name of occupant, or nonresidential street address signs, not exceeding one (1) square foot in area, which may be seeninternally or externally illuminated.

E. Window signs. Permanent window signs painted on or otherwise adhered directly onto a window and signs that block a window in any way are subject to the following standards.

1. Location. Window signs shall not be mounted or placed on windows higher than the second story.

2. Size. Maximum forty percent (40%) of the window area. 22 F. Historic plaques and commemorative signs. Historic plaques, memorial signs or tablets, or commemorative signs indicating names of buildings and dates of building erection, either attached to or cut into the surface of buildings.

1. Size. Maximum four (4) square feet in area.

G. Flags. Flags erected and located in accordance with the following standards:

1. Location. Flagpoles shall not be located within any required setback.

2. Height. The maximum flagpole height is thirty (30) feet.

3. Number. No more than two (2) flags per lot in Residential Districts, no more than three (3) flags per lot in all other districts.

4. Size. The maximum individual flag size is thirty-two (32) square feet.

H. Mobile vendor signs . Signs affixed to mobile vending vehicles that identify or advertise the name, product, and/or service provided by the general public, suchvendor.

I. Commercial Signs Carried by Persons/ Commercial Mascot Signs. Any sign carried and being displayed by a person, as signs inside buildings which are not window signslong as it does not obstruct the use of any public right-of-way.

1. F. Location. Limited to Commercial and Mixed-Use Districts.

2. Number. No more than two (2) commercial mascot signs per business.

3. Size. The area of each sign held or attended by a person shall not exceed six (6) square feet.

4. Timing of Display. Commercial Mascot signs shall not be displayed during hours when the business establishment related to the specific commercial mascot sign is not open to the public.

J. Copy changes on existing legally established signs using the same materials, colors, and typeface size and style.

K. Signs integrated into certain devices . Any sign integrated into or on a coin -operated machine, vending machine, fueling pump, or permitted sidewalk vendor receptacle.

L. Temporary commercial signs for short-term sales or leases , including, but not limited to, garage/yard sales or signs that advertise residential and commercial properties for sale, rent, or lease signs used to advertise residential property (“real estate signs”), , shall be exempt from 17.59.080. These signs shall not be illuminated, shall be mounted on a post or “A” frame, and shall not exceed four square feet in area and may be used subject to the following restrictions:
23 1. One such real estate sign shall be allowed on the property for sale, rent or lease at all times.

2. Up to four additional “open house” signs, which may also exhibit directional arrows and instructions, shall be allowed on weekends, holidays and on one weekday per week (multiple listing service tour day) on other private property with the owner’s permission.

3. No more than three such “open house” directional real estate signs (aggregate for on or more sales) shall be located on a single property nor shall more than six such signs located within forty feet of an intersection.

1. 4. Real estateLocation. Signs shall not be allowed on sidewalks, streets, medians, public rights -of-way, orthe city’s levee pedway /bikeway, or any other location where they interfere with vehicular sight distance, nor shall they be allowed to be taped, wired, glued, tied or in any way affixed to light poles, street signs, or any public property.

2. G. Garage/yard sale signs used to advertiseNumber.

One (1) such a sale on residential property, shall not be illuminated, shall be mounted on a post or “A” frame, and shall not exceed four square feet in area and may be used subject to the following restrictions:

(a) 1. One such garage/yard sale sign shall be allowed on the property where the sale is to take place.

(b) 2. Up to four (4) additional signs, which may also exhibit directional arrows and instructions , shall be allowed on weekends and holidays on other private property with the owner’s permission.

(c) 3. No more than three (3) such garage/yard sale signs shall be located on a single property nor shall.

2.3. No more than six such(6) signs shall be located within forty (40) feet of an intersection.

4. Garage/yard sale signs shall not be allowed on sidewalks, streets, medians, public rights-of-way, or where they interfere with vehicular sight distance, nor shall they be allowed to be taped, wired, glued, tied or in any way affixed to light poles, street signs, or any public property.

H. Residential street address signs, including name of occupant, or nonresidential street address signs, not exceeding one square foot in area, which may be internally or externally illuminated.

I. Window signs subject to the following restrictions:

24 1. Window signage shall not be evaluated, regulated or limited as to duration based on whether the signage is intended to be permanently or temporarily placed on storefront windows.

2. Window signage shall not be subject to time limitations, including grand openings, special events, promotional events or sales. (See Section (E) and (F) of this chapter for other types of temporary signs that are subject to time restrictions, such as grand opening or promotional sales banners that are not window signs.)

3. The total amount of all window signage (including illuminated and non -illuminated window signage) allowed shall be limited to forty percent of the aggregate total glass surface area of the store, as defined in Section of this chapter.

4. All window signage placed on or within three feet of the aggregate total glass surface area of the store shall be of professional quality with respect to installation, materials, and design.

5. All lighting intended to illuminate window signage (if any) shall be approved by the city prior to installation.

6. The city shall not regulate the content/message, materials (except directly exposed neon tubing), logo, font or color of the sign background or any portion of the illuminated window signage.

7. The message on exempt non-illuminated changeable copy window signage may be changed as frequently as the owner desires.

8. Any combination of illuminated, poster, vinyl or painted letters or other signage may be included within the total amount of window signage allowed on or within three feet of the aggregate total glass surface area of the store.

9. All window signage shall be maintained in a clean and safe manner, shall be fully operational and wholly intact at all times (no missing, broken, torn, ripped, stained, dirty, or unlit areas, parts, corners, or letters) and shall be immediately repaired or replaced as often as necessary.

10. Non-illuminated signs or graphics shall not require review by or a permit from the city.

11. Individual window letters, designs and logos that are applied by paint, vinyl or other approved materials directly to the surface of the window are subject to the following restrictions:

a. Window signs may be placed only on first -floor storefront windows except for second-floor windows visible only from parking lots and not visible from public streets.

b. Allowable materials for window letters include paint, vinyl, or other similar materials.

c. Individual window letters shall not be greater than six inches in height.

d. Window letters or other designs that are applied by paint, vinyl, or other approved materials directly to the surface of the window shall be white only but may be of any font style.

e. Window letters, designs, and logos applied directly to the surface of the window shall be surrounded with a minimum border (untreated glass) of two inches on all sides.

25 4. J. Size. The area of each sign shall not exceed four (4) square feet.

5. Height. Temporary commercial signs for short -term sales or leases mounted on a post shall be no taller than forty (40) inches.

6. Duration of display. Temporary commercial signs shall not be displayed for more than ten (10) consecutive days and shall be removed no later than ten (10) days after the completion of the event.

B.M. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs which meet the following criteria:

1. 1. Location. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs shall not be placed in any public street median, or on any bridge, public utility box, or any pole used for public utility, traffic control signs, traffic signals, or street signs. These signs are deemed to create a hazardous condition and shall be subject to immediate removal by a representative of the city authorized to do so by the city manager. If information is provided to the city or included on the sign indicating whom to contact regarding the sign, the city shall provide notice to the contact following removal of the sign. 2. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs shall not be placed in any public parks or the city’s levee pedway/bikeway. Temporary noncommercial right -of-way signs shall not interfere with pedestrian or bicycle circulation on or along sidewalks, pathways, bicycle paths, or the city’s levee pedway/pedway.

With the exception of public parks and the city’s levee pedway/bikeway, temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs may be placed on public property within the first ten (10) feet back of the sidewalk or ten (10) feet from the curb, when no sidewalk is present. In addition, temporary noncommercial right -of-way signs shall not be placed in or along public rights -of-way suchin a manner that they are considered by the city to be blocks views of walkways, pedestrians, or traffic control device, or creates a sight distance problem for the drivers of vehicles , or which interfere or distract from the traffic control devices in place, or which interfere with safe bicycle or pedestrian circulation. These . No temporary noncommercial right -of-way signs areshall be located within the twenty-five (25) foot sight triangle.

26 2. Size. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs shall be no larger than four (4) square feet.

3. Height. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs shall be no taller than forty (40) inches.

4. Duration of Display. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs relating to an upcoming event may be placed ninety (90) days prior to the date of the event and shall be removed no later than ten (10) days after completion of the event.

5. Other Provisions.
(a) Illumination. Temporary noncommercial right -of-way signs shall not be illuminated.
(b) Removal. Any temporary noncommercial right -of-way signs deemed to create a hazardous condition and have damaged public property shall be subject to immediate removal by the city. Signs placed in violation of location requirements or otherwise placed in a manner that creates a hazardous condition shall be subject to immediate removal by the city.

N. Temporary noncommercial signs placed on private property signs which meet the following criteria:

1. Size.
(a) Residential Districts. Temporary noncommercial signs placed on private property shall be no larger than four (4) square feet.
(b) Other Zoning Districts. Temporary noncommercial signs placed on private property shall be no larger than eight (8).

27 2. Height. Temporary noncommercial signs placed on private property shall be no taller than forty (40) inches.

3. Duration of Display. Temporary noncommercial signs relating to an upcoming event may be placed no earlier than ninety days prior to the date of the event and shall be removed no later than ten (10) days after the completion of the event.

4. Other Provisions.
(a) Illumination. Temporary noncommercial signs shall not be illuminated. (b) Setback. Temporary noncommercial signs shall be set back at least two (2) feet from all property lines.
(c) Owner’s Authorization . Temporary noncommercial signs may only be allowed with the owner’s consent.

17.59.070 Prohibited Signs. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the following signs and circumstances are prohibited:

A. “A” Frame Sign. Any sandwich board “A” frame sign or other portable sign, except those signs allowed pursuant to Section 17.59.060 or Section 17.59.080 of this chapter.

B. Animated or Moving Signs . Animated, flashing, blinking, reflecting, revolving, or other similar signs with visibly moving or rotating parts or visible mechanical movement of any kind, unless expressly permitted by another Section of this chapter. This provision does not apply to signs using digital display technology, such as LED (light emitting diodes) or functionally equivalent display methods, which are permitted, subject to the regulations of this chapter.

C. Balloons, Inflatable Signs, Streamers, Pennants, and Other Attention-Getting Devices.

Balloons, inflatable signs, streamers, pennants, and other attention-getting devices, made of light-weight fabric or similar material, designed to rotate or move with the wind, that direct, promote, or that are otherwise designed to attract attention are prohibited . Businesses that do not have a business frontage abutting a public right -of-way may apply for an administrative sign permit.

D. Banners and pennants (except as allowed by Section 17.59.070 of this chapter).

E. Billboard. Signs specifically allowed to direct attention to a business, commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold, or offered at a location other than the property on which the sign is located.

F. Changeable Copy Signs . Except those specifically allowed by Section 17.59.060E and Section 17.59.090 of this chapter.

G. Freeway Signs. Signs facing a freeway except secondary frontage commercial business identification signs allowed pursuant to Section 17.59.090 of this chapter to advertise the 28 sale or lease of the property or premises as provided in this chapter, or to designate the name of the owner or tenant of the premises.

H. Home Occupation Signs. Any sign indicating a home occupation.

I. Illuminated signs where:

1. Nonresidential uses are facing directly onto a contiguous residential property;

2. Externally illuminated source of light is directly visible to pedestrians or vehicular traffic;

3. Internally illuminated signs that have a directly exposed neon tube, except as allowed pursuant to Section 17.59.090 of this chapter; and

4. Any sign illumination which, in the opinion of the community development director, exhibits undue glare.

J. Mobile Billboards. Any sign carried, conveyed, or hauled by a vehicle for the purpose of general advertising for hire. The purpose of this prohibition is to eliminate mobile billboard advertising within the city in order to reduce traffic congestion, promote the safe movement of vehicular traffic, to reduce air pollution, and improve the aesthetic appearance of the city.

This prohibition does not apply to displays on vehicles related to the goods or services provided by the vehicle owner or operator and public transit/public carrier graphics on properly licensed buses, taxicabs, and similar vehicles for hire that legally pass through the city.

K. Roof Signs. Signs erected on roofs or above the first story of multistory buildings, except signs allowed on office buildings six or more stories in height pursuant to Section 17.59.110 of this chapter and, with planning commission approval of a sign use permit, on hotels pursuant to Section 17.59.040.

L. Searchlights, Spotlights, and Klieg Lights. Searchlights, Spotlights, and Klieg lights when used as attention-attracting devices for commercial uses.

M. Sign Affixed to Trees . Any sign nailed, tacked , or otherwise affixed to trees or other vegetation.

N. Signs for Prohibited Uses. A sign displaying a commercial message promoting a business that is a prohibited use and has not been established as a legal nonconforming use.

O. Any signs that:

1. Emit or reflect light by means of direct fluorescence, phosphorescence or “day - glow” colors;

2. Reflect light by means of a glossy, polished, or mirrored surface; 29 3. Are animated or include components that flash or blink;

4. Accompanied with loudspeakers used to call attention to a product, service, or property;

5. Obstruct the visual lines of sight at corners or intersections for drivers of motor vehicles, including any signs placed within the twenty-five (25) foot sight triangle.

6. May obstruct the free use of any exit, entrance, window vent, emergency access, fire lane, or standpipe;

7. May interfere with, obstruct, confuse or mislead traffic;

8. Utilizing visible guy wires, angle irons or iron frame structures;

9. Consisting of several sheets of paper connected together by perforations, tape, staples or any other means; or

10. Placed on, affixed to, or erected on or over public property, rights -of-way, or waterways, except signs which are exempt pursuant to Section 17.59.060 of this chapter.

P. Off premise s igns which identify or advertise a product or servi ce not available on the premises, except off -site real estate signs and construction signs allowed pursuant to Sections 17.59.080 of this chapter, and off-site freestanding signs for commercial properties without street frontages, pursuant to Section 17.59.100.

30 C.Q. With the exception of signs as provided in subsections A, B and C of Section 17.59.060, the placement of signs in any portion of a city park or the city’s levee pedway /bikeway is prohibited; signs placed in violation of this subsection are subject to immediate removal by a representative of the city authorized to do so by the city manager. If information is provided to the city or included on the sign indicating whom to contact regarding the sign, the city shall provide notice to the contact following removal of the sign.

3. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs shall not be placed in any public parks and shall be subject to immediate removal by a representative of the city authorized to do so by the city manager. If information is provided to the city or included on the sign indicating whom to contact regarding the sign, the city shall provide notice to the contact following removal of the sign.

4. With the exception of public parks, temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs may be placed on public property within the first ten feet from the back of the sidewalk or ten feet from the curb, when no sidewalk is present. Temporary noncommercial ri ght-of-way signs shall not interfere with pedestrian circulation along sidewalks, pathways or the levee/pedway; shall not obstruct bicycle circulation along bicycle paths; shall not obstruct the sight distance of drivers of vehicles; and/or shall not cause unsafe conditions as determined by the city. Signs deemed to create a hazardous condition shall be subject to immediate removal by a representative of the city authorized to do so by the city manager. If information is provided to the city or included on the sign indicating whom to contact regarding the sign, the city shall provide notice to the contact following removal of the sign.

5. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs placed in residential zoning districts shall be no larger than four square feet.

6. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs placed in zoning districts other than residential shall be no larger than eight square feet.

7. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs shall not be illuminated.

8. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way signs may be placed ninety days prior to an election and shall be removed no later than ten days after an election.

9. Any temporary noncommercial right -of-way signs deemed to have damaged public property shall be subject to immediate removal by the city. If information is provided to the city or included on the sign indicating whom to contact regarding the sign, the city shall provide notice to the contact following removal of the sign.

K. Copy changes on existing legally established signs using the same materials, colors, and typeface size and style.

L. Temporary noncommercial signs placed on private property may only be allowed with the owner’s consent, and in residential zoning districts shall be no larger than four square feet, and if placed in any other zoning district, no larger than eight square feet. Any such signs may be placed ninety days prior to an election and shall be removed no later than ten days after the election, and may not be placed on any roof. (Ord. 651 §§ 4, 5, 2022; Ord. 533 § 1 (part), 2006; Ord. 517 § 2 Exh. A (C), 2005: Ord. 454 § 2, 1998; Ord. 432 § 1 (part), 1996; Ord. 409 § 1, 1994; Ord. 396 § 1, 1992; Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

15.12.180 Temporary signs.
31 R. Any other signs not specifically allowed by provisions of this chapter; however, nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit any sign, notice or advertisement required by law.

17.59.080 Temporary Signs.

Temporary signs shall be allowed for a specific duration as stipulated in the provisions of this section or as set by the approving authority in approving the sign permit. Unless specifically exempted from sign permit by Section 17.59.060 of this chapter, all temporary signs not otherwise exempt shall require approval by the community development director and a permit.

Nothing in this section shall prohibit the community development director from approving a prototypical real estate sign to be used by a real estate company in several locations. The prototypical sign approval shall include height, text, square footage, co lors, materials, and criteria for location such as setbacks from streets and corners.

Notwithstanding approval of a prototypical real estate sign, the specific location of each such sign shall be approved by the community development director prior to installation.

D.A. A. Temporary window signs which are exempt pursuant to Section 17.59.060 of this chapter;.

E.B. B. Real estate signs as indicated in Table 1-A and as exempt pursuant to Section 17.59.060 of this chapter;.

F.C. C. Construction signs and construction trailer signs as indicated in Table 1;-A.

G.D. D. Temporary noncommercial right-of-way and Temporary noncommercial signs which are exempt pursuant to Section 17.59.060N of this chapter;.

E. Grand Opening Signs. One banner, not illuminated and not to exceed fifty square feet in area for retail commercial uses or twenty-five square feet in area for office or industrial uses, shall be allowed to identify a use, its nature and the opening d ate. Such banner shall not be displayed longer than thirty days total which shall be before, during and after the opening, or for a period to be approved by the community development director. The use of such signs is subject to the following limitations:

E. 1. “A” Frame and Other Portable Sidewalk Signs for Commercial Use. Each business may display one (1) “A” frame or other portable sidewalk sign in compliance with the following standards.

1. Location. A portable sidewalk sign shall be placed only within the boundaries of the applicable business’ frontage where specifically allowed by the sign permit or encroachment permit, and shall be positioned so that it will not:
(a) Obstruct the sidewalk clearance required in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA);
32 (b) Impede any line of sight for motorists at vehicular public right -of-way intersections, as recommended by the public works director; or (c) Interfere with people exiting and entering parked cars.

2. Number. No more than one (1) sign shall be permitted per activity or business.

3. 2. Size. Sign width shall not exceed two (2) feet and six (6) inches. Sign height shall not exceed four (4) feet. Sign height shall be measured perpendicular from the sidewalk surface to the highest point of the sign.

4. Other Requirements.
(a) The sign shall be removed from the sidewalk at the close of business each day.
(b) The sign shall be stabilized to withstand wind gusts or shall be removed during windy conditions.
(c) In addition to the sign permit required by this chapter, an encroachment permit shall be obtained from the public works department before any sign is placed in the public right-of-way.

F. Grand Opening Signs . The sign shall be temporary, designed either as a wall sign or a window sign. The sign can be in the form of a banner.

1. 3. Location.
(a) The sign shall be located below the roof eaves, and at no time shall any portion of the sign be higher than twenty (20) feet above ground level.

(b) 4. The sign shall not exceed the length of the store/business frontage, nor shall it block ingress/egress to any of the business entrances.

(c) 5. Grand opening signs shall be placed on the primary business frontage of the commercial or industrial business which is the subject of the sign.

2. 6. Number. No more than one (1) sign shall be permitted per activity or business.

3. Size. One (1) banner, not illuminated and not to exceed fifty (50) square feet in area for retail commercial uses or twenty -five (25) square feet in area for office or industrial uses, shall be allowed to identify a business, its services or products, and the opening date.
33 4. Time of Display . Such banner shall not be displayed longer than sixty (60) days total which shall be before, during and after the opening, or for a period to be approved by the community development director.

5. Other Requirements. The community development director may require special design criteria for grand opening signs that he/she /they determines require special treatment beyond what is contained in subsections (E)(1) through (5) of this section.

(d)(a) 7. Signs shall be kept clean and in good repair at all times that they are in use.

H.G. F. Promotional Sales Signs. A promotional sales sign which is not otherwise exempt as a window sign pursuant to Section 17.59.060 of this chapter, may be approved for a temporary period of time, as specified under commercial and industrial uses. The use of such signs is subject to the following limitations:

1. No more than one sign shall be permitted per activity or business.

2. The sign shall be temporary, designed either as a wall sign or a window sign. The sign can be in the form of a banner.

3. The sign shall not exceed fifty square feet, shall be located below the roof eaves, and at no time shall any portion of the sign be higher than twenty feet above ground level.

4. The sign shall not exceed the length of the store/business frontage, nor shall it block ingress/egress to any of the business entrances.

5. The use of such signs is subject to the following limitations:

1. Location.
(a) Promotional sales signs shall be placed on the primary business frontage of the commercial or industrial business which is the subject of the sign.

(b) 6. The sign shall not exceed the length of the store/business frontage, nor shall it block ingress/egress to any of the business entrances.

2. Number. No more than one (1) sign shall be permitted per activity or business.

3. Size. The sign shall not exceed fifty (50) square feet, shall be located below the roof eaves, and at no time shall any portion of the sign be higher than twenty (20) feet above ground level.
34 4. Time of Display. Promotional sales signs shall be limited to a display period not to exceed fifteen sixty (60) days. Four promotional periods shall be permitted for each maximum per calendar year, not to exceed a total of sixty days per year. Two periods may be combined for a maximum of thirty consecutive days.

5. 7. Other Requirements.
(b)(a) The community development director may require special design criteria for promotional sales signs that he/she/they determines require special treatment beyond what is contained in subsections (EG)(1) through (65) of this section.

(c)(b) 8. Signs shall be kept clean and in good repair at all times that they are in use.

H. G. Special Events and Sales . Sidewalk or parking lot sales, carnivals, exhibits and parades.

2.1. 1. Merchants, charitable or community interest organizations may be allowed such signing in any zoning district as deemed appropriate to announce, locate, identify or advertise the event and the products or services offered or exhibited.

3.2. 2. The necessity for submittal of plans and specifications for any or all of the signs associated with the event shall be as determined by the community development director.

I. H. Recurring Events . Nothing in this chapter shall prohibit the planningcommunity development director from approving sign permit applications for the use of any sign to announce, locate, identify or advertise a paper drive, school activity or event, blood drive, holiday event or similar recurring events.

J. I. Urgently Needed Signs . Any signs deemed by the planningcommunity development director to be urgently needed may be allowed temporarily by the community development director with the submittal of an application for sign permit for the sign, until such time as the approving authority approves or denies the sign permit application or the comm unity development director determines that the sign is no longer urgently needed. (Ord. 651 § 6, 2022; Ord. 517 § 2 Exh. A (D), 2005: Ord. 432 § 1 (part), 1996; Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989) K. Real Estate and Construction Signs. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the community development director from approving a prototypical real estate sign to be used by a real estate company in several locations. The prototypical sign approval shall include height, 35 text, square footage, colors, materials, and criteria for location such as setbacks from streets and corners. Notwithstanding approval of a prototypical real estate sign, the specific location of each such sign shall be approved by the community developmen t director prior to installation.

TABLE 1-A

REAL ESTATE AND CONSTRUCTION SIGNS

CLASS & PURPOSE LAND USE
& SIZE
SIGN
AREA
(MAX)

REMARKS
Construction Sign:

Identify construction
or project underway
Residential
any size
Four (4)
square feet

1. Removal required within sixty (60) days
of completion of construction, subject to a
permit issued prior to placement of sign.

Nonresidential
up to one (1)
acre
Sixteen (16)
square feet

1. Removal required within sixty (60) days
of completion of construction.

2. Fifteen (15) feet minimum setback.

Nonresidential
more than one
(1) acre
Thirty-two
(32) square
feet

1. Removal required upon completion of
construction.

2. Fifteen (15) feet minimum setback.

Real Estate Sign:

Identify vacant land
for sale, lease, or
development
Commercial
and Industrial
up to one (1)
acre
Sixteen (16)
square feet

1. Removal required within sixty (60) days
of successful sale, lease, or development of
property or erection of signs allowed for
soliciting tenants.

2. Fifteen (15) feet minimum setback.

3. For Commercial and Industrial sites of
more than five (5) acres, one (1) additional
freestanding sign for each additional five
hundred (500) feet of frontage shall be
allowed.

Commercial
and Industrial
one (1) to five
(5) acres
Thirty-two
(32) square
feet
Commercial
and Industrial
more five (5)
acres
Thirty-two
(32) square
feet
Real Estate Sign:

Soliciting tenants in a
future project for
which plans have been
approved;
or,
entire existing
developed properly for
sale or lease
Commercial
and Industrial
up to one (1)
acre
Sixteen (16)
square feet

1. Removal required within sixty (60) days
of successful sale, lease, or development of
property or erection of signs allowed for
soliciting tenants.

2. Five (5) feet minimum setback. Commercial
and Industrial
more than one
(1) acre
Thirty-two
(32) square
feet
Real Estate Sign:

Soliciting tenants in an
existing developed
property
Commercial
and Industrial
Sixteen (16)
square feet

1. Removal required within sixty (60) days
of successful sale, lease, or development of
property or erection of signs allowed for
soliciting tenants.
36 2. Five (5) feet minimum setback.

Real Estate Sign:

Offering an entire
existing developed
property for sale

Other than
commercial
and industrial
up to one (1)
acre
Sixteen (16)
square feet

1. Removal required upon sale of property.

Other than
commercial
and industrial
more than one
(1) acre
Thirty-two
(32) square
feet
Real Estate Sign:

Announce, locate,
identify, or advertise a
development of new
residences
Other than
commercial
and industrial
any size
Four (4)
square feet

Real Estate Sign:

Permanent
All uses 1. A permanent real estate sign requires a
sign permit or shall be included in a sign
program for the site.
* For residential construction signs, one sign per * For residential construction project onlysigns, one (1) sign per street frontage per construction project.

K.L. Additional requirements:

1. All signs shall be freestanding and not illuminated.

2. Signs shall be not more than eight feet in height.

3. The intent of this section is to encourage the submittal of a complete signing program for model homes, including identification signs, directional signs and any necessary supplemental signs, which will complement the character of the development, the neighborhood and the community.

4. :

1. Conditions of approval may be added by the approving authority.

2. 5. All real estate and construction signs shall be freestanding unless otherwise stated in Table 1-A.

3. The maximum height for all freestanding real estate and construction signs shall be eight (8) feet.

4. No illumination is allowed.

2.5. All signs described on this table are subject to the approval of the community development director pursuant to Section 17.59.080.
37 6. A permanent real estate sign shall be designed to be architecturally consistent with the other permanent signs and any sign program for the site.
(Ord. 553 § 2 Exh. A, 2010: Ord. 432 § 1 (part), 1996)

17.59.05017.59.090 15.12.190 Public Convenience Signs.

Signs which in the opinion of the community development director serve the public safety or convenience, such as entrance, exit, parking, no parking, no trespassing, office, manager, street address, bulletin boards, directional signs, instructional/direction signs at recycling centers, and civic and cultural promotion signs, may be allowed in any zoning district of the city.

Such signs may be wall signs, freestanding signs or monument signs and may be of any size, number and illumination determined by the approving authoritycommunity development director to be necessary and adequate to their intended purpose.

Such signs twenty (20) square feet or less in area and not illuminated may be approved by the community development director. Signs larger than twenty (20) square feet or illuminated shall require approval by the planning commission. (Ord. 432 § 1 (part), 1996: Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

15.12.200 Signs allowed for specific uses.

17.59.100 A. Sign Development Standards.

A. Residential Uses.

1. Individual Residence Identification. One street address sign per residence is an exempt sign as stipulated in Section of this chapter.

2. Grouped Residences Identification.

a. A residential development, such as a subdivision of single -family homes, townhouses, or condominiums, shall be allowed one freestanding sign to identify the development. Such sign shall not exceed twenty square feet in area or four feet in height and shall not be illuminated.

b. Apartment Identification. An apartment development shall be allowed one freestanding sign not to exceed four feet in height or one wall sign, per property frontage plus one additional sign for each additional five hundred linear feet of property fron tage. Each such sign shall not exceed twenty square feet in area and shall be so designed to temporarily or permanently incorporate rental availability information. Rental availability information shall be restricted to identification of the manager’s or a gent’s location and/or telephone number. Rental or lease terms, apartment sizes and description of amenities shall not be included. Such signs may be externally illuminated.

B. .
38 TABLE 2-A

RESIDENTIAL USES

CLASS SIGN TYPE NUMBER SIGN
AREA
(MAX)
HEIGHT
(MAX)

REMARKS
Subdivision of
single-family
homes,
townhouses
(less than 50
units),
Condominiums
(less than 50
units)
Freestanding
Sign

1. One (1) freestanding
sign for community
identification located on
the development’s
primary frontage.

2. For developments
with frontage on more
than one public street, a
second freestanding
sign may be allowed on
the second frontage.

Twenty
(20)
square
feet
Four (4)
feet

1. Sign area is only
calculated for one (1)
side of a freestanding
sign.

2. Signs may be
internally or externally
illuminated.

Individual
Residence
Identification
One (1) street address
sign per residence
Exempt Sign
Directional
Signs
Refer to
Section 17.59.090
Townhouses,
Condominiums,
and/or mixed-
use residential
development of
50 or more
units
Refer to
Section 17.59.120
Apartments,
Senior Living
Freestanding
Sign (Note:

Freestanding
or wall sign)
One (1) freestanding
sign per property
frontage plus one (1)
additional sign for each
additional 500 linear
feet of property
frontage.

Twenty
(20)
square
feet
Four (4)
feet

1. Sign area is only
calculated for one (1)
side of a freestanding
sign.

2. Signs may be
internally or externally
illuminated.

3. Signs shall be so
designed to temporarily
or permanently
incorporate rental
availability information
Wall Sign
(Note:

Freestanding
or wall sign)
One (1) wall sign per
frontage plus one (1)
additional sign for each
additional five hundred
(500) linear feet of
property frontage.

Twenty
(20)
square
feet

39 4. Rental availability
information shall be
restricted to
identification of the
manager’s or agent’s
location and/or
telephone number.

5. Rental or lease terms,
apartment sizes and
description of amenities
shall not be included.

Directional
Signs
Refer to
Section 17.59.090
Individual
Residence
Identification
One (1) street address
sign per residence
Exempt Sign

B. Commercial Uses..

TABLE 3-A

COMMERCIAL USES

CLASS SIGN TYPE NUMBER SIGN AREA
(MAX)
HEIGHT
(MAX)

REMARKS
Commercial
Centers less
than 5 acres
Freestanding
identification
Sign -
Commercial
Center
One (1)
freestanding
sign
Ten (10) square
feet per acre for
sign identification
of the center.

Sixteen
(16) feet

1. Signs shall be
restricted to identification
of the name and address
of the center.

2. Signs may be
internally or externally
illuminated.

Freestanding
identification
Sign –
Tenant
identification
One (1)
freestanding
identification
sign
Ten (10) square
feet per acre for
sign identification
of the tenants.

Sixteen
(16) feet

1. Signs shall be
restricted to the
identification of the name
and address of the tenant.

2. Signs may be
internally or externally
illuminated.

One (1) wall
sign on the
primary
Sign area shall be
one-half square
foot per linear foot
Signs may be internally
or externally illuminated.
40 Wall Sign –
Tenant
identification
business
frontage, and
of business
frontage or Twenty
(20) square feet,
whichever is
greater. No sign
shall exceed fifty
(50) square feet or
fifteen percent (15
%) of the
building’s face,
whichever is
greater.

One (1)
additional
sign on the
secondary
business
frontage.

Secondary
business frontage
identification sign
shall not exceed
fifty percent (50%)
of that allowed for
the primary
business frontage
sign.

Awning and
canopy Signs
– Tenant
identification
One (1) for
each
establishment
having
entrance
under or
offering
service under
the awning or
canopy.
5 square feet 14 feet with
min.
clearance of
8 feet

1. Awning shall not be
illuminated.

2. Canopy signs may be
internally or externally
illuminated.

Projecting
Signs –
Tenant
identification
One (1) for
each building
frontage or
tenant space.

Five (5) square
feet
14 feet with
min.
clearance of
8 feet

1. A projecting sign
cannot extend more than
four (4) feet from the
building to which it is
attached and must be
designed and located so
as to cause no harm to
street trees.

2. Signs projecting into
the public right-of-way
are subject to an
encroachment permit.
41 3. A Projecting sign
cannot extend further
than the outer edge of the
marquee, covered
walkway, canopy, or
awning from which it is
attached.

4. Projecting signs shall
not be illuminated.

Window
Signs –
Tenant
identification
Window sign
exempt
pursuant to
Section

17.59.060 and
one (1)
illuminated
window sign
(see remarks)
Sign area for
window signs shall
be the aggregate
square footage of
all window signs,
temporary and
permanent,
illuminated and
non-illuminated,
displayed in or
behind a window,
and shall not
exceed forty
percent (40%) of
the surface area of
the window.

1. Illuminated window
signs shall not include
signs with directly
exposed neon tubing.

2. The message on
approved illuminated
changeable copy window
signage may be changed
as frequently as the
owner desires.

3. The total amount of all
illuminated window
signage allowed shall be
limited to ten percent
(10%) of the aggregate
total glass surface area of
the storefront elevation
on which it is placed but
shall not exceed three (3)
square feet and shall be
limited to one (1)
approved sign per store.

4. Neon signs more than
ten (10) feet from a
window which are visible
from outside the window
shall be subject to a sign
permit approved by the
planning commission.

Directional
Signs
Refer to
Section 17.59.090
Commercial
Centers 5 acre
and larger –
A Master Sign Program
is required and shall be
approved by the planning
42 see remarks commission. Refer to
Section 17.59.120.

Single
commercial
businesses not
located in a
commercial
center*
Freestanding
Sign (in lieu
of wall sign)
Sign area shall not
exceed twenty-
four (24) square
feet in area.

Six (6) feet *freestanding or wall
sign
Wall Sign One (1) wall
sign on the
primary
business
frontage, and

1. Sign area shall
be one-half square
foot per linear foot
of business
frontage or Twenty
(20) square feet,
whichever is
greater.

2. No sign shall
exceed fifty (50)
square feet or
fifteen percent
(15%) of the
building’s face,
whichever is
greater.

Sign may be internally or
externally illuminated.

One (1)
additional
sign on the
secondary
business
frontage.

Secondary
business frontage
identification sign
shall not exceed
fifty percent (50%)
of that allowed for
the primary
business frontage
sign.

Sign may be internally or
externally illuminated.

Awning and
canopy Signs
One (1) for
each
establishment
having
entrance
under or
offering
service under
the awning or
canopy.
5 square feet 14 feet with
min.
clearance of
8 feet

1. Awning shall not be
illuminated.

2. Canopy signs may be
internally or externally
illuminated.

Projecting
Signs
One (1) for
each building
Five (5) square
feet
14 feet with
min.

1. A projecting sign
cannot extend more than
43 frontage or
tenant space.
clearance of
8 feet
four (4) feet from the
building to which it is
attached and must be
designed and located so
as to cause no harm to
street trees.

2. Signs projecting into
the public right-of-way
are subject to an
encroachment permit.

3. A Projecting sign
cannot extend further
than the outer edge of the
marquee, covered
walkway, canopy, or
awning from which it is
attached.

4. Projecting signs shall
not be illuminated.

Directional
Signs
Refer to
Section 17.59.090

TABLE 3-B

COMMERCIAL USES (WINDOW SIGNS)
C. Office Uses.

TABLE 4-A

OFFICE USES

CLASS SIGN TYPE NUMBER SIGN
AREA
(MAX)
HEIGHT
(MAX)

REMARKS
Office
Centers less
than 5 acres
Freestanding
identification
Sign - Office
Center
One (1)
freestandin
g sign
Ten (10)
square
feet per
acre
Four (4)
feet

1. Signs shall be restricted to
identification of the name and
address of the center.

2. Signs may be internally or
externally illuminated.
44 Wall Sign -
Building or
Major Tenant
Identification
One (1)
wall sign on
the primary
business
frontage,
and
One-half
square
foot per
linear foot
of
business
frontage
or
Twenty-
five (25)
square
feet,
whichever
is less.

Eight (8)
feet
Sign may be internally or externally
illuminated.

One (1)
additional
sign on the
secondary
business
frontage.

Secondary
business
frontage
identificat
ion sign
shall not
exceed
fifty
percent
(50%) of
that
allowed
for the
primary
business
frontage
sign.

Sign may be internally or externally
illuminated.

Office
Center -
Remaining
Tenant
Identification
Freestanding
identification
Sign or wall
sign or
Awning and
canopy Sign
Projecting
Sign
One (1)
wall sign
shall be
allowed to
be located
on the
primary
business
frontage of
each
building, to
identify the
remaining
tenants.

1. The remaining tenants shall be
identified in aggregate; their
identities being incorporated onto a
common freestanding or wall sign
except that tenants in an office
center may be allowed individual
identification signs where deemed
appropriate.

2. When individual tenant
identification signs are allowed, the
sign area of each such sign shall not
exceed one-eighth (1/8) square foot
of sign area for each one (1) linear
45 foot of business frontage or ten (10)
square feet, whichever is less.

3. A sign aggregating the
identifications of the various
tenants may be designed to use
identically designed, replaceable
nameplates for the various tenants,
so that the nameplates may be
easily removed or rearranged. The
removal, rearrangement, or
replacement of the nameplates shall
not require review or approval.

4. Identification signs of remaining
tenants may be externally
illuminated.

Office
buildings
four stories
or more in
height
On office buildings four (4) stories
or more in height, additional wall
identification signs may be allowed,
pursuant to a sign use permit,
subject to the following:

1. Wall identification signs shall be
located on the affected wall surface
as defined in Section 17.59.030.

2. Wall identification signs shall be
limited to federally registered
corporate logos.

3. For office buildings four (4) or
five (5) stories in height, one (1)
additional nonilluminated wall
identification sign may be allowed.

4. For office buildings of six (6)
stories or more, two (2) additional
wall identification signs may be
allowed. Only one (1) wall
identification sign in addition to
any identification sign(s) approved
pursuant to subsections of this
section shall be allowed per
building elevation. If two (2) wall
identification signs are permitted,
they shall be located on opposite
corners of their respective
elevations or at least fifty (50) feet
apart on their respective elevations
46 and the two (2) permitted wall
identification signs may display the
same or two (2) different federally
registered corporate logos.

5. Wall identification signage must
be proportionate to the wall size,
shall not be placed or located
within seventy-five (75) feet of a
residential zoning district measured
both horizontally and vertically and
may have halo back-lighting only.

6. Wall identification signs shall be
in balance in both dimension and
placement within the affected wall
surface area and shall not exceed
twelve percent (12%) of the total
square footage of the affected wall
surface area.

Office
buildings not
a part of an
office center
Freestanding
Sign in lieu
of wall sign
One (1)
freestanding
sign
Six (6) feet Freestanding sign may be
externally illuminated.

Directional
Signs
Refer to Section 17.59.090
Office
Center larger
than 5 acres
– see
remarks
A Master Sign Program is required
and shall be approved by the
planning commission. Refer to
Section 17.59.120.

D. Industrial Uses.

TABLE 5-A

INDUSTRIAL USES

CLASS SIGN TYPE NUMBER SIGN AREA (MAX) HEIGHT
(MAX)

REMARKS
Industrial
Center less
than 5 acres
Freestanding
identification
Sign –
Industrial
One (1)
freestanding
identification
sign
Ten (10) square feet of
sign area per acre, but
no such sign shall
Four (4)
feet
Unless otherwise
approved by a sign
request use permit, such
signs shall be restricted
47 Center
Identification
exceed fifty (50) square
feet in area
to identification of the
name and address of the
center and may be
externally illuminated.

Wall Sign –
used to
identify
Building or
Major Tenant
One (1) wall
sign on the
primary
business
frontage of
each building,
and
One-quarter square foot
of sign area for each
one (1) linear foot of
business frontage or
twenty-five (25) square
feet, whichever is less.

Signs may be internally
or externally
illuminated.

One (1)
additional
sign on the
secondary
business
frontage.

Secondary business
frontage identification
sign shall not exceed
fifty percent (50%) of
that allowed for the
primary business
frontage sign.

Industrial
Building –
Remaining
Tenant
Identification
Freestanding
Identification
or Wall sign
One (1)
freestanding
Identification
or Wall sign
One-eighth square foot
of sign area for each
one (1) linear foot of
business frontage or ten
(10) square feet,
whichever is less.

Identification signs of
remaining tenants may
be internally or
externally illuminated if
a wall sign, or externally
illuminated if a
freestanding sign.

Industrial
Buildings not
part of an
Industrial
Center
Freestanding
Identification
or Wall sign
One (1)
freestanding
Identification
or Wall sign
One-eighth square foot
of sign area for each
one (1) linear foot of
business frontage or ten
(10) square feet,
whichever is less.

Four (4)
feet for
freestandi
ng
identificati
on sign
Identification signs may
be internally or
externally illuminated if
a wall sign, or externally
illuminated if a
freestanding sign.

Directional
Signs
Refer to
Section 17.59.090.

Industrial
Center larger
than 5 acres
– see
remarks
A Master Sign Program
is required and shall be
approved by the
planning commission.

Refer to
Section 17.59.120.

E. Quasi-Public Uses.
48 TABLE 6-A

QUASI-PUBLIC UES

CLASS SIGN
TYPE

NUMBER SIGN AREA
(MAX)
HEIGHT
(MAX)

REMARKS
Religious institutions,
private schools,
hospitals, and other
uses of a quasi-public
nature
A Sign Master Program
is required and shall be
approved by the
planning commission.

Refer to
Section 17.59.120.

F. Monument Sig n. A monument sign as defined in Section 17.59.030, shall require a landscape planter around the base of the sign, containing shrubs and/or groundcover and flowering annual and/or perennial flowers. The design of the landscaping shall be such that natural growth will not obscure the sign from the public right-of-way.

G. Sign illumination shall be as defined in Section 17.59.030 Definitions, and shall comply with the provisions of Section 17.59.060.

H. No sign shall be illuminated except where expressly allowed in the provisions of this chapter.

17.59.110 Signs for Specific Use.

A. Gasoline Service Station Signs.

TABLE 7-A

GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS

CLASS SIGN TYPE NUMBER SIGN AREA
(MAX)
HEIGHT
(MAX)

REMARKS
Gas
Service
Station
Freestanding
Identification
Sign
One (1)
freestanding
sign
Twenty-five
(25) square feet
Eight (8)
feet
Sign may be internally or
externally illuminated.

Wall Signs One (1) wall
sign per
property
frontage
Ten (10) square
feet per sign
Sign may be internally or
externally illuminated.

Price Signs One (1)
freestanding
price sign per
Twenty (20)
square feet
Eight (8)
feet

1. Signs shall be allowed to
indicate the prices and types of
gasoline for sale. This information
49 property
frontage
shall not be repeated on the same
frontage.

2. Such signs may be designed to
use replaceable, interchangeable
numerals and the replacement or
rearrangement of the numerals
shall not require review or
approval.

3. Signs may be internally or
externally illuminated.

Window
Signs
Window signs exempt pursuant to
Section 17.59.060
One (1)
illuminated
window sign
per store
Ten percent
(10%) of the
aggregate total
glass surface
area of the store
or three-square
feet, whichever
is less

1. Illuminated window signs shall
not include signs with directly
exposed neon tubing.

2. The message on approved
illuminated changeable copy
window signage may be changed
as frequently as the owner desires.

17.59.120 Master Sign Program.

A. Purpose. The purpose of a Master Sign Program is to encourage creativity and provide incentives to comprehensively integrate signage into a development, as well as with the design of the structures, to achieve a unified architectural statement. Any alternative regulation and design standard approved through a Master Sign Program, may supersede the provisions of this chapter.

B. Applicability. A Master Sign Program is available for all properties and uses. For the following uses, a Master Sign Program is required:

1. Townhomes, Condominiums, and/or mixed -use residential developments of fifty (50) or more units.

2. Retail/Shopping Centers with five (5) or more tenants.

3. Commercial Centers of five (5) or more acres in size.

4. Commercial or Industrial Uses with lot size five (5) or more acres.

5. Religious institutions, private schools, hospitals, and other use s of a quasi -public nature.
50 C. Review Authority. All Master Sign Programs are subject to review and approval of the Review Authority for the project with which the signs are associated. Master Sign Program applications may be submitted separately or as part of the permit application for the project.

1. The Planning Commission shall be the Review Authority for any new Master Sign Program application, application requesting additional sign area, additional height, or an increase in the number of signs otherwise allowed by this chapter.

2. The community development director shall be the Review Authority for any minor modifications to the existing Master Sign program and may, at his or her discretion, refer to the Planning Commission for a decision rather than acting on it himself , herself, or theirself.

D. Application Requirements. An application for Master Sign Permit shall be accompanied by required fee and working drawings adequate to show:

1. Site plan showing:
(a) Location of building(s) and proposed signs (including tenant space location).

2. Detailed elevation of sign(s) both new and existing, showing:
(a) Dimensions of sign;
(b) Sign Area;
(c) Color;
(d) Size and letter style of sign copy;
(e) Size and style of proposed logo;
(f) Sign materials; and
(g) Method of illumination.

3. Schematic building elevation showing:
(a) Dimensions of building frontage; and
(b) Exact location of existing and proposed signage ( photographs or other depictions may be submitted for sign copy changes).

4. Installation detail showing cross section through the sign and specifications of hardware and materials.

5. 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. 51 6. A statement of how the use of temporary signs, including banners, flags, pennants, and similar advertising devices will be monitored by the property owner/lessor to ensure compliance with the requirements of this chapter. Failure of the property owner/lessor to adequately monitor and control the use of temporary signs shall be grounds for revocation of the Sign permit.

E. Lessees shall be Informed of a Master Sign Program . Lessees within developments subject to the requirements of an approved Master Sign Program shall be made aware of the program in their lease and their responsibility to follow the approved Master Sign Program.

F. Findings. In approving an application for a Master Sign Program, the Planning Commission shall make the following findings:

The Master Sign Program is consistent with the Foster City general plan and Title 17, Zoning, and Chapter 17.06

1. Commercial Center Identification.

a. Each commercial center shall be allowed one freestanding identification sign if the center is smaller than five acres, or two such signs if between five and ten acres. Centers larger than ten acres shall be allowed the number of signs deemed adequate by the planning commission by approval of a sign request use permit as stipulated in Section of this chapter.

b. The allowable sign area for each such sign shall be ten square feet of sign area per acre for identification of the center and ten square feet of sign area per acre for identification of the tenants; provided that no such sign shall exceed one hundred square feet in area or sixteen feet in height.

c. Unless otherwise approved by a sign request use permit, such signs shall be restricted to identification of the name and address of the center and tenants and may be externally illuminated.

2. Commercial Business Signs.

a. Identification Signs.

i. One wall sign shall be allowed to be located on the primary business frontage of each business, to identify that business. Businesses located on a corner of a public street intersection or with frontage on a freeway shall be also allowed one additional wall sign on the secondary business frontage, unless such signs are prohibited pursuant to sign regulations for a specific development.

ii. For businesses not a part of a commercial center or where site design warrants as determined by the community development director, a freestanding sign not to exceed six feet in height, or a projecting sign, or an under-canopy sign, may be allowed in lieu of a wall sign, except on a secondary frontage facing a freeway.

iii. The sign area allowed for the primary business frontage identification sign shall be one-half square foot of sign area per one linear foot of business frontage or twenty square feet, whichever is greater; except that no sign shall exceed fifty squa re feet or fifteen percent of the building face, whichever is greater. The sign area allowed for the secondary business frontage identification sign shall not exceed fifty percent of that allowed for the primary business frontage sign. 52 iv. Identification signs on the primary and secondary business frontages may be internally or externally illuminated.

v. In addition to the identification signing allowed in subsections A and B of this section, additional identification signing may be allowed to identify a primary pedestrian access if such is not located on the primary business frontage, or to identify a secondary pedestrian access or loading area, pursuant to a sign permit approved by the community development director. The number of such additional identification signs shall be as determined by the community development director to be adequate, the sign area of each shall not exceed five square feet and the signs may be wall signs, projecting signs or under-canopy signs. Such additional signs may be externally illuminated.

b. Window Signs. In addition to the identification signing allowed in subsection (2)(a) of this section, window signs as defined in Section of this chapter, may be allowed, subject to the provisions of this section.

The sign area allowed for window signs shall be the aggregate square footage of all window signs, temporary and permanent, illuminated and non -illuminated, displayed in or behind a window, which aggregate square footage shall not exceed forty percent of the surface area of the window. The following types of window signs are allowed:

i. Window signs which are exempt pursuant to Section of this chapter.

ii. One illuminated window sign, subject to the following restrictions:

(a) Illuminated window signs shall not include signs with directly exposed neon tubing.

(b) Illuminated window signs shall be set back a minimum of three feet from the interior surface of the window.

(c) Illuminated window signs shall require a sign permit issued by the planning/code enforcement division and an electrical permit issued by the building inspection division. Planning/code enforcement division staff will evaluate only the following feat ures related to window signage:
aggregate glass surface area of the store and proposed sign dimensions (length times width).

(d) The message on approved illuminated changeable copy window signage may be changed as frequently as the owner desires.

(e) The total amount of all illuminated window signage allowed shall be limited to ten percent of the aggregate total glass surface area of the storefront elevation on which it is placed but shall not exceed three square feet, and shall be limited to one approved sign per store.

iii. Neon signs more than ten feet from a window which are visible from outside the window shall be subject to a sign permit approved by the planning commission.

3. Gasoline Service Station Signs.

a. Identification Signs.

53 i. Gasoline service stations shall be limited to one freestanding sign of an area not to exceed twenty- five square feet and a height not to exceed eight feet; and in addition for each property frontage, one wall sign not to exceed ten square feet in area shall be allowed.

ii. Gasoline service station signs may be internally or externally illuminated and, Section (A)(9) of this chapter withstanding, internally illuminated signs need not be reduced in area.

b. Price Signs.

i. For each business frontage, one freestanding sign not to exceed eight feet in height shall be allowed to indicate the prices and types of gasoline for sale. This information shall not be repeated on the same frontage.

ii. The sign area for each such sign shall not exceed twenty square feet.

iii. Such signs may be designed to use replaceable, interchangeable numerals and the replacement or rearrangement of the numerals shall not require review or approval as such is exempt as stipulated in Section of this chapter.

iv. Such signs may be externally illuminated.

c. Window Signs. In addition to the signing allowed above, window signs as defined in Section of this chapter, may be allowed, subject to the provisions of this section. The sign area allowed for window signs shall be the aggregate square footage of all window signs, temporary and permanent, displayed in or behind a window, which aggregate square footage shall not exceed forty percent of the aggregate total glass surface area of the window. The following types of window signs are allowed

i. Window signs which are exempt pursuant to Section of this chapter.

ii. One illuminated window sign, subject to the following restrictions:

(a) Illuminated window signs shall not include signs with directly exposed neon tubing.

(b) Illuminated window signs shall be set back a minimum of three feet from the interior surface of the window.

(c) Illuminated window signs shall require a sign permit issued by the planning code enforcement division and an electrical permit issued by the building inspection division. Planning/code enforcement division staff will evaluate only the following feat ures related to window signage:
aggregate glass surface area of the store and proposed sign dimensions (length times width).

(d) The message on approved illuminated changeable copy window signage may be changed as frequently as the owner desires.

(e) The total amount of all illuminated window signage allowed shall be limited to ten percent of the aggregate total glass surface area of the store or three square feet, whichever is less, and shall be limited to one approved sign per store.

54 C. Office Uses.

1. Office Center Identification.

a. Each office center shall be allowed one freestanding identification sign if the center is smaller than five acres, or two such signs if between five and ten acres. Centers larger than ten acres shall be allowed the number of signs deemed adequate by the planning commission by approval of a use permit sign request as stipulated in Section of this chapter.

b. The allowable sign area for each such sign shall be ten square feet of sign area per acre but no such sign shall exceed fifty square feet in area or four feet in height. c. Unless otherwise approved by a sign request use permit, such signs shall be restricted to identification of the name and address of the center and may be externally illuminated.

2. Office Building or Major Tenant Identification (Wall Identification Sign).

a. One wall identification sign shall be allowed to be located on the primary business frontage of each building, to identify that building or major tenant. Buildings located on a corner of a public street intersection and not a part of an office center shall be also allowed one additional wall identification sign on the secondary business frontage.

b. For buildings not a part of an office center or where site design warrants as determined by the planning director, a freestanding sign not to exceed eight feet in height may be allowed in lieu of a wall identification sign.

c. The sign area allowed for the primary business frontage wall identification sign shall be one -quarter square foot of sign area for each one linear foot of business frontage or twenty-five square feet, whichever is less. The sign area allowed for the secondary business frontage wall identification sign shall not exceed fifty percent of that allowed for the primary business frontage sign.

d. Identification signs on primary and secondary business frontages may be internally or externally illuminated if a wall identification sign, or externally illuminated if a freestanding sign.

e. In addition to the sign(s) allowed pursuant to subsections (C)(2)(a), (b), (c) and (d) of this section, on office buildings four stories or more in height, additional wall identification signs may be allowed, pursuant to a sign use permit, subject to the following:
i. Wall identification signs shall be located on the affected wall surface as defined in Section .

ii. Wall identification signs shall be limited to federally registered corporate logos.

iii. For office buildings four or five stories in height, one additional nonilluminated wall identification sign may be allowed.

iv. For office buildings six stories or more, two additional wall identification signs may be allowed.

Only one wall identification sign in addition to any identification sign(s) approved pursuant to subsections (C)(2)(a), (b), (c) and (d) of this secti on shall be allowed per building elevation. If two wall 55 identification signs are permitted, they shall be located on opposite corners of their respective elevations or at least fifty feet apart on their respective elevations and the two permitted wall identification signs may display the same or two different federally registered corporate logos.

v. Wall identification signage must be proportionate to the wall size, shall not be placed or located within seventy-five feet of a residential zoning district measured both horizontally and vertically and may have halo back-lighting only.

vi. Wall identification signs shall be in balance in both dimension and placement within the affected wall surface area and shall not exceed twelve percent of the total square footage of the affected wall surface area.

vii. Submittal requirements for wall identification signage shall include a complete city application and a sign use permit, time and materials deposit/fees, a colors and materials board, and ten sets of information containing all of the following: (A) a letter from the owner of the subject building authorizing the proposed wall identification sign to be placed on the building as depicted on the plans submitted to the city; (B) architectural elevation plans of the subject building, drawn at not less than one-inch scale for the affected wall surface area on which the sign is proposed to be placed, that includes the subject wall identification sign drawn to scale; (C) a scaled eleven- by fourteen-inch color photomontage that includes the proposed subject wall identification sign.

3. Office Building—Remaining Tenant Identification.

a. In addition to any building or major tenant identification signing, the remaining tenants shall be identified in aggregate, their identities being incorporated onto a common freestanding or wall sign, except that tenants in an office center may be al lowed individual identification signs where deemed appropriate by the planning director.

b. One wall sign shall be allowed to be located on the primary business frontage of each building, to identify the remaining tenants.

c. For buildings not a part of an office center or where site design warrants as determined by the planning director, a freestanding sign not to exceed six feet in height may be allowed in lieu of a wall sign, to exhibit the aggregated identities of the remaining tenants.

d. Where the planning director determines that individual identification of the remaining tenants is appropriate, such identification may be by a projecting sign, under-canopy sign, wall sign, or freestanding sign not to exceed four feet in height.

e. The sign area allowed for the primary business frontage identification sign of the aggregated remaining tenants shall be one -eighth square foot of sign area for each one linear foot of business frontage or ten square feet, whichever is greater; except that no such sign shall exceed twenty-five square feet.

f. When individual tenant identification signs are allowed, the sign area of each such sign shall not exceed one-eighth square foot of sign area for each one linear foot of business frontage or ten square feet, whichever is less.

56 g. A sign aggregating the identifications of the various tenants may be so designed to use identically designed, replaceable nameplates for the various tenants, so that the nameplates may be easily removed or rearranged. The removal, rearrangement, or replacement of the nameplates shall not require review or approval as such is exempt as stipulated in Section of this chapter.

h. Identification signs of remaining tenants may be externally illuminated.

D. Industrial Uses.

1. Industrial Center Identification.

a. Each industrial center shall be allowed one freestanding identification sign if the center is smaller than five acres, or two such signs if between five and ten acres. Centers larger than ten acres shall be allowed the number of signs deemed adequate by the planning commission by approval of a sign request use permit as stipulated in Section of this chapter.

b. The allowable sign area for each such sign shall be ten square feet of sign area per acre, but no such sign shall exceed fifty square feet in area or four feet in height.

c. Unless otherwise approved by a sign request use permit, such signs shall be restricted to identification of the name and address of the center and may be externally illuminated.

2. Industrial Building—Building or Major Tenant Identification.

a. One wall sign shall be allowed to be located on the primary business frontage of each building, to identify that building or major tenant. Buildings located on a corner of a public street intersection and not a part of an industrial center shall be a lso allowed one additional wall sign on the secondary business frontage.

b. For buildings not a part of an industrial center or where site design warrants as determined by the planning director, a freestanding sign not to exceed four feet in height may be allowed in lieu of a wall sign.

c. The sign area allowed for the primary business frontage identification sign shall be one-quarter square foot of sign area for each one linear foot of business frontage or twenty-five square feet, whichever is less.

The sign area allowed for the secondary business frontage identification sign shall not exceed fifty percent of that allowed for the primary business frontage sign.

d. Identification signs on primary and secondary business frontages may be internally or externally illuminated if a wall sign, or externally illuminated if a freestanding sign.

3. Industrial Building—Remaining Tenant Identification.

a. In addition to any building or major tenant identification signing, each remaining tenant shall be allowed one wall sign to identify tenant.

b. Where site design warrants as determined by the planning director, a freestanding sign not to exceed four feet in height may be allowed in lieu of a wall sign.

57 c. The sign area allowed for each tenant identification sign shall be one-eighth square foot of sign area for each one linear foot of business frontage or ten square feet, whichever is less.

d. Identification signs of remaining tenants may be internally or externally illuminated if a wall sign, or externally illuminated if a freestanding sign.

E. Quasi-Public Uses.

1. Identification Signs. Churches, schools, hospitals and other uses of a quasi-public nature as determined by the planning director shall be allowed one freestanding sign not to exceed four feet in height or one wall sign.

Such signs shall not exceed twenty square feet in area and may be externally illuminated.

2. Changeable Copy Signs.

a. In addition to any other allowed signing, the planning commission may, by approval of a sign request use permit with such restrictions as may be set by conditions of the use permit and upon a finding that the additional signing is in the public interest, allow changeable copy signing for those uses, such as churches, schools, entertainment and cultural uses, where it deems such to be appropriate.

b. Such signs may be wall signs or freestanding signs and generally shall be limited to fifty square feet in area and external illumination. (Ord. 558 § 2 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 520 § 2 Exh. A (part), 2005; Ord. 517 § 2 Exh. A (E)(F), 2005; Ord. 432 § 1 (part), 1996; Ord. 376 § 1, 1990; Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

15.12.210 Enforcement.

1. A. , Administration, Construction and Enforcement , of the Foster City Municipal Code.

2. The Master Sign Program complies with the standards of this Chapter 17.59, except that flexibility is allowed with regard to sign area, number of signs, location, and/or height.

3. Future tenants will be provided with adequate opportunities to construct, erect or maintain a sign for identification; and

4. Directional signage and building addressing is adequate for pedestrian and vehicular circulation and emergency vehicle access.

17.59.130 Construction and Maintenance.

A. Construction-installation. All permanent and temporary signs shall be constru cted and installed in a manner consistent with industry standards.

B. Maintenance. Every sign, including but not limited to those signs for which permits are required, shall be maintained in a safe, presentable, and good structural condition at all times, including replacement of defective parts, painting, cleaning and other acts required to maintain the sign, advertising structure, canopy or awning in its originally permitted and installed condition in accordance with the following criteria and with the other applicable provisions of city regulations:
58 1. Paint. To prevent rust, peeling, flaking, fading or rotting, the permittee of any sign or advertising structure shall, as required, paint all parts and supports thereof unless the same are galvanized or otherwise treated.

2. Repairs. Broken panels, missing letters, defective illumination, torn fabric, flaking or peeling paint and other damage to a sign, advertising structure, awning, canopy or support structure shall be repaired.

3. Clean and Sanitary. All signs or advertising structures and the area surrounding same shall be maintained by the owner thereof in a clean, sanitary and inoffensive condition, and free and clear of all debris, rubbish and obnoxious substances, and any relat ed planted area or landscaping shall be kept trimmed and in a healthy condition.

4. Vacancies. Any sign which advertises a business, commodity, service, entertainment, activity, or event which has been discontinued, or is located on property which has been vacant and unoccupied shall be removed; provided, however, that a blank face (containing no sign graphics) may be substituted.

17.59.140 Enforcement.

C.A. Nonconforming Signs. Every sign in existence on the effective date of this chapter, and for which a sign permit was granted after May 1, 1972, pursuant to Ordinance 51 or Ordinance 176prior enactments, or which did not require a sign permit at the time it was erected, and which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, is a legal nonconforming sign. A legal nonconforming sign must be removed or brought into conformance with the provisions of this chapter if such sign meets any of the following criteria:

1. 1. The sign’s use has ceased, or the structure upon which the sign has been erected or which the sign identifies has been abandoned by its owner, for a period of ninety (90) days or more.

2. 2. The sign has been more than fifty percent (50%) destroyed, and the destruction is other than facial sign copy replacement, and the sign cannot be repaired within thirty (30) days of the date of its destruction.

3. 3. The sign is remodeled or otherwise altered, and such remodeling or alteration is other than solely a change in sign copy.

4. 4. The sign is affected by expansion, enlargement, or remodeling of the building or land use upon which the sign is located.

5. 5. The sign is relocated.
59 6. 6. The sign is temporary.

7. 7. The sign is or may become a danger to the public or is unsafe as determined by the planningcommunity development director.

8. 8. The sign constitutes a traffic hazard not created by relocation of streets or highways or by acts of the city, state or federal government.

D.B. B. Illegal Signs.

1. .

1. The following signs shall be considered illegal:

(a) a. Signs in existence on the effective date of this chapter and which are considered nonconforming pursuant to Ordinance 51 , and whose abatement period pursuant to such ordinance has expired.

(b) b. Signs which were not in conformance with the sign regulations in effect at the time they were erected.

(c) c. Signs which are unsafe or insecure, or are a menace to the public, or are being maintained in violation of the provisions of this chapter.

2. 2. Illegal signs shall be removed or altered to conform to the provisions of this chapter by the owner, agent or person having beneficial use of the same or of the building, structure, or land upon which such sign may be found, as directed by the planningcommunity development director or his/her/their designated representative.

Illegal signs may be removed by the property owner, or in the case of illegal signs on public property, may be removed by the planningcommunity development director or his/her/their designated representative.

E.C. C. Violations. Any person who violates any provision, or fails to comply with any of the requirements of this chapter, is guilty of an infraction, punishable by:

1. 1. A fine not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100) for a first violation;

60 2. 2. A fine not exceeding two hundred dollars ($200) for a second violation of the same provision within one year; and

3. 3. A fine not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500) for a third or subsequent violation of the same provision within one (1) year.

4. For purposes of this section each day in which an illegal condition continues is a single violation and each subsequent day such illegal condition continues is a new and separate offense.

F.D. D. Violations Constitute Public Nuisance. In addition to the penalties otherwise provided in this chapter, any violation of this chapter is a public nuisance. The city attorney, upon order of the city council, shall commence the necessary action or proceedings for the abatement, removal and enjoinment thereof in the manner prescribed by law in the courts which may have jurisdiction to grant such relief as will accomplish such abatement and restraint. The remedies provided for in this section shall be in addition to any other remedy or remedies or penalties provided in this title or other law or ordinance.

G.E. E. Duties. It shall be the duty of the planningcommunity development director or his/her/their designated representative to enforce this chapter. A sign erected upon public property in violation of the provisions of this chapter may be removed by the planningcommunity development director or his/her/their designated representative. It is unlawful for any person not authorized by the planningcommunity development director to remove signs from public property. The cost of the removal or alteration of any sign and any expense incident thereto, which by the terms of this section shall be paid by a permittee, sign owner, property owner or any other persons, shall become a debt owning the city for the collection of which the city may maintain civil action in its name. The planningcommunity development director or his/her/their designated representative may summarily and without notice cause the removal of any sign which is an immediate peril to person or property. (Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)

15.12.220 Sign guidelines for specific developments.

A. General. The city may adopt sign guidelines for specific developments which are consistent with the intent and purpose of this chapter as contained in Section of this chapter and generally consistent with the criteria for sign approval contained in Section of this chapter. Such sign guidelines may include different regulations for signs and, where they differ, such guidelines shall supersede the provisions of this chapter. For items not specifically mentioned in such guidelines, the provisions of this chapt er shall otherwise apply. Notwithstanding any requirements for window signs that are contained in sign guidelines for specific developments, if there is a conflict between the specific guidelines and the regulations in this chapter, the regulations for win dow signs contained in this chapter shall apply.

B. Method of Adoption. Such guidelines for specific developments shall be adopted by resolution of the planning commission.
61 C. Contents. Sign guidelines shall include a format for all signs to be used in the development, including their maximum size, color, location, illumination details, lettering type, mounting details, and (if any) landscaping details.

D. Approving Authority. Unless otherwise provided in the sign guidelines for a specific development, the community development director shall have the authority to approve typical sign permits for signs in conformance with the adopted sign regulations for that development.

E. Sign Guidelines Required for Commercial Centers. No permit shall be issued for a sign to be located in a commercial center until sign guidelines have been approved pursuant to this section for the center and the sign complies with the provisions thereof. The review of retail center capsule signs shall be limited to placement, size, number, minimum border, frame color, and background color but shall not include text or logo color, message, or font, other than to preclude “dayglow” or fluorescent colors . (Ord. 517 § 2 Exh. A (G), 2005: Ord. 432 § 1 (part), 1996; Ord. 364 § 2 (part), 1989)