CITY OF MERCED
Planning Commission
Resolution #4122
WHEREAS, the Merced City Planning Commission at its regular meeting of September 6, 2023, held a public hearing and considered Sign/Zoning Ordinance Amendment #23 -04, initiated by the City of Merced. This application involves repealing Chapter 17.36 – Signs from the Merced Municipal Code and replacing Chapter 20.62 – Signs in its entirety with a comprehensive update to the ordinance that would place all sign regulations in one chapter, bring the Sign Ordinance into compliance with recent court rulings, and make the sign requirements consistent throughout the City. The new ordinance would include new definitions, new regulations for sign area, temporary signs, digital/LED signs, signs in the public right- of-way, billboards, regional signs, freeway signs, and various other sign regulations.
The proposed sign ordinance would categorize signs into four main types: permanent building signs, permanent freestanding signs, temporary building signs, and temporary freestanding signs. Each type of sign would be regulated by quantity, size, shape, type of illumination and location.
WHEREAS, the Merced City Planning Commission concurs with Findings/Considerations A through F of Staff Report #23-730 (Exhibit A); and, NOW THEREFOR E, after reviewing the City’s Draft Environmental Determination, and discussing all the issues, the Merced City Planning Commission does resolve to hereby recommend to City Council adoption of a Categorical Exemption regarding Environmental Review #23- 24, and approval of Zoning Ordinance Amendment #23-04, subject to the Findings set forth in Exhibit A and as described in Exhibit B attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
Upon motion by Commissioner Gonzalez , seconded by Commissioner Thao , and carried by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners Camper, Ochoa, Gonzalez, Smith, Delgadillo, and Thao NOES: None
ABSENT: Chairperson Harris
ABSTAIN: None
ATTACHMENT 2
EXHIBIT A
OF PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION #4122
Findings and Considerations
Planning Commission Resolution #4122
Sign/Zoning Ordinance Amendment #23-04
FINDINGS/CONSIDERATIONS:
General Plan Compliance and Policies Related to This Application A) The proposed sign/zoning ordinance provided at Exhibit B of the Draft Planning Commission Resolution at Attachment A of Planning Commission Staff Report #23 -730 would make changes in response to various issues regarding signage, simplify the current ordinance, incorporate all the sign regulations into one chapter within the Municipal Code, and bring the ordinance into compliance with the Supreme Court ruling regarding the Reed vs. Gilbert case. General Plan Implementing Action L-2.3.d calls for the City to review and update the Zoning and Sign Ordinances as needed.
General Overview of Proposed Changes
B) The City of Merced is proposing a comprehensive update to the sign ordinance. This update would repeal Chapter 17.36 – Signs and incorporate all the signin g regulations under Chapter 20.62 – Signs. The existing requirements in Chapter 20.62 would be replaced with the proposed new ordinance. The existing Sign Ordinance is provided at Attachment B of Planning Commission Staff Report 34 -730. The intent of th e update is to simplify the regulations and organize them into one Chapter of the Zoning Ordinance as well as bring them into compliance with recent Supreme Court rulings.
The proposed ordinance is written in such a way to ensure the regulations are not content based in compliance with the recent Supreme Court ruling mentioned in Finding A. The new ordinance categorizes signs into four main types:
• Permanent building signs;
• Permanent freestanding signs;
• Temporary building signs;
• Temporary freestanding signs.
Each type of subtype of sign can be separately regulated by quantity, size, shape, type of illumination, and location (i.e., zoning district or on-site/off - site) without having to read the sign or know the topic or intent of its message.
EXHIBIT A
OF PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION #4122
The proposed ordinance organizes the sign standards in tables based on Zoning and type of sign. It also includes pictures to help identify different types of signs as well as descriptions and graphics to determine how to measure different ty pes of signs. Definitions are also included in the ordinance to help clearly define types of signs and terms used in the ordinance.
The proposed ordinance includes three overlay zones that would have different standards from the rest of the City. These overlay zones are: 1) the Old 99 Overlay District; 2) the Downtown Overlay District; and, 3) the Freeway Overlay District. The boundaries of each district can be found at Figures 20.62.110- 1 (pg. 21), 20.62.120-1(pg. 22) and 20.62.130- 1 and
20.62.130-2 (pg. 25 and 26) of the Draft Ordinance at Exhibit B of this resolution.
The proposed ordinance also includes special standards for the following types of signs:
• Shopping Center Signs • Signs in Windows
• Signs in the Public Right-of-Way • Master Sign Programs • Temporary Signs for Residential
Subdivisions
• Historic Signs
• Manual and Electronic Changeable Copy
Signs
• Flags and Search Lights
• Wall Murals • Billboards
• Hazardous, Abandoned, and Illegal Signs
Comparison of Existing vs New
C) The City’s consultant, QK, compared signing allowed under the existing sign ordinance and the proposed ordinance for some existing sites within the City.
In most cases, the signing allowed under the proposed ordinance was very close to what would be allowed under the existing ordinance. QK will provide examples of their comparison at the Planning Commission meeting.
As previously explained, the current ordinance is located in two Chapters within the Municipal Code (Chapters 17.36 and 2 0.62). The existing ordinance is confusing and has different calculations for different areas within the City. The new ordinance is written to be clearer and easier to follow. The sign requirements are provided in a table format according to the zone. The table provides the type of sign allowed, the number of signs allowed, the
EXHIBIT A
OF PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION #4122
maximum size allowed, the sign placement, and the type of illumination allowed.
Non-Conforming Signs
D) If the new ordinance is adopted, many existing signs within the City would become “legally non-conforming.” However, the proposed sign code allows signs that were installed legally to remain until such time as a significant change is made to the sign. At that time, the sign would be required to be in compliance with the new ordinance.
Repealing Chapter 17.36-Signs
E) As described in Finding A above, the current requirements found in Merced Municipal Code Chapter 17.36 – Signs would be repealed as part of the update. This would allow all sign requirements to be located in one chapter (Chapter 20.62 – signs) within the Zoning Ordinance.
Environmental Clearance
F) Planning staff has conducted an environmental review (Environmental Review #23 -20) of the project in accordance with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and recommends a Categorical Exemption (Attachment C of Planning Commission Staff Report #23-730).
City of Merced
Sign Ordinance
Chapter 20.62 of
the Merced Zoning
Ordinance
Public Draft
August 2023
EXHIBIT B
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
1 SIGNS AND OUTDOOR ADVERTISING STRUCTURES
Sections:
20.62.010 Purpose.
20.62.020 Applicability and severability.
20.62.030 No discrimination against noncommercial speech.
20.62.040 Exempt signs.
20.62.050 Prohibited signs.
20.62.060 Required address numbers.
20.62.070 Permits required.
20.62.080 Sign design principles.
20.62.090 Rules for sign measurement.
20.62.100 Sign standards on developed sites by zone district.
20.62.110 Old 99 Overlay District.
20.62.120 Downtown Overlay District.
20.62.130 Freeway Overlay District.
20.62.140 Additional shopping center signs.
20.62.150 Temporary building sign standards.
20.62.152 Temporary freestanding sign standards.
20.62.160 Illumination standards for signs.
20.62.170 Sign regulations on undeveloped or developing sites.
20.62.180 Signs placed in windows.
20.62.190 Signs in public rights-of-way.
20.62.200 Comprehensive master sign program.
20.62.210 Offsite temporary signs for residential subdivisions.
20.62.220 Historic signs.
20.62.230 Signs with manual changeable copy.
20.62.240 Signs with electronic changeable copy.
20.62.250 Digital display signs.
20.62.260 Flags and flagpoles.
20.62.270 Search lights and klieg lights.
20.62.280 Wall mural placement and design criteria.
20.62.290 Off-premises signs in City right-of-way.
20.62.300 Nonconforming signs.
20.62.310 Billboards.
20.62.320 Maintenance of signs.
20.62.330 Hazardous signs.
20.62.340 Abandoned or obsolete signs.
20.62.350 Illegal Signs.
20.62.360 Enforcement.
20.62.370 Definitions.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
2 20.62.010 Purpose.
A. The purpose of this Chapter is to regulate signs as an information system that preserves and enhances the aesthetic character and environmental values of Merced, its residential neighborhoods, its downtown, and its commercial and industrial areas, while also providing an effective means for the public to express themselves through the display of signs. These regulations recognize both the importance of business activit y to the economic vitality of Merced and the need to protect the visual environment. Specifically, these regulations are intended to implement the Merced General Plan and to:
1. Provide minimum standards to safeguard life, health, property, public welfare, an d traffic safety by controlling the design, quality of materials, construction, illumination, size, location, and maintenance of signs and sign structures.
2. Preserve and enhance the visual order and attractiveness of the city for residents, businesses, and visitors.
3. Protect and enhance property values and community appearance by encouraging signs that are compatible with the architectural style, character, and scale of the building to which they relate, and with adjacent buildings and businesses.
4. Restrict si gns that may create visual clutter or a nuisance to nearby properties, violate privacy, or create hazards or unreasonable distractions for pedestrians and drivers of vehicles.
5. Provide adequate opportunity for the exercise of free speech by display of a mes sage or image on a sign, while balancing that opportunity with other community and public interests.
6. Ensure that commercial signs are accessory or auxiliary to a principal business or establishment on the same premises, rather than functioning as general advertising for hire.
7. Prohibit signs that may cause traffic or pedestrian safety hazards or interfere with ingress and egress.
B. It is the City of Merced’s policy to regulate signs in a constitutional manner that is content neutral as to messages , which are within the protections of the First Amendment to the U.S.
Constitution and the corollary provisions of the California Constitution.
20.62.020 Applicability and severability.
This Chapter regulates signs that are located or mounted within the jur isdictional boundaries of Merced, California. The provisions in this Chapter apply in all Zoning districts within the City. No sign within the regulatory scope of this Chapter shall be erected or maintained anywhere in the City of Merced except in conforma nce with this Chapter. If any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word in this Chapter is declared invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining portions of the Chapter.
20.62.030 No discrimination against noncommercial speech.
Subject to the property owner’s consent, a noncommercial message of any type may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any commercial message or any other noncommercial message provided that the sign structure or mounting device is legal without consideration of message content. Such PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
3 substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary w ithin this Title. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message.
This provision does not create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel, nor does it affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted.
20.62.040 Exempt signs.
A. The following signs are exempt from the permit requirements of this Chapter and do not count toward the total sign area limit for a site, provided that they conform to applicable standards:
1. One permanent sign per residence or business premises, mounted on a wall and not exceeding two (2) square feet in area.
2. Barber poles, not exceeding 18 inches in height, located in a non-residential zone district, and containing no lettering.
3. Signs on vehicles, provided th at the sign does not utilize changeable copy or special illumination.
4. Holiday and cultural observance decorations on private property that do not include commercial advertising. This exemption includes strings of lights associated with a holiday decoration.
5. Official notices issued by a court or public agency and posted in the performance of a public duty; notices posted by a utility or other quasi -public agency; signs erected by a governmental agency to direct or regulate pedestrian or vehicular traffic; no ncommercial bus stop signs erected by a public transit agency, or other signs required or authorized by law. This exemption also covers signs and banners provided or approved by the City for special civic events erected by the City, which may be displayed in public rights-of-way.
6. Signs that are located entirely within a building or enclosed structure and are not visible from the public right-of-way.
7. Signs located on a private area of a lot that is not accessible by the general public, such as a backyard, and are not visible from the public right-of-way.
8. Signs fixed to mobile vending carts, up to a maximum of eight (8) square feet of sign area.
9. Signs that are part of a vending machine, fuel pump, or similar structure.
10. Signs mounted on carrier vehicles such as buses, taxicabs, mobile vendors, and limousines that legally pass through the city.
11. Window signs that conform to the standards of Section 20.62.180.
B. Exempt signs that have electrical connections or engineered supports shall obtain the appropriate building permit, as required by the California Building Code.
C. This chapter shall not prohibit or limit a public agency (City, County, School District, etc.) from placing signs on their public property for a public purpose.
20.62.050 Prohibited signs.
The following signs shall be prohibited in all zones:
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
4 A. Signs located, placed, or erected in or upon any public right -of-way, except as specifically allowed by this Chapter.
B. Signs illuminated with red, green, or amber light placed in such a position that it could reasonably be perceived to interfere with, or be confused with any official traffic control device, traffic signal, or official directional guide sign.
C. Signs placed within the “corner vision triangle” as defined in Section 20.30.030 of the Merced Municipal Code , except for signs erected by a governmental agency to direct or regulate pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
D. Signs placed in a location that would prevent free ingress and egress from any door, window, or fire escape.
E. Outdoor advertising structures located on a site other than the site on which the advertised commercial use is located or on which the advertised commercial product is produced.
F. Building signs extending above the peak of a pitched roof, or the parapet line of a flat roof.
G. Reflecting, flashing, sparkling, glittering, twinkling, or shimmering signs.
H. Signs with open letters that can be viewed from the reverse side.
I. Streamers, balloons, blimps, or other floating, inflatable, or hanging devices secured with a rope or string, unless specifically permitted with a temporary use permit.
J. Signs located, placed, or attached upon any tree, utility pole, or fence, except as specifically allowed by this Chapter.
K. Signs placed on private property without permission of the property owner.
L. Nonconforming signs and sign structures associated with an activity, business, product, events, or service that has not been sold, produced, provided, or conducted on the premises for a period of 90 days.
M. Signs that revolve or are animated, except barber poles.
N. Signs containing statements, words, symbols, or characters of an obscene nature . Obscene nature will be determined by the Development Services Director using the three-part obscenity test established in Miller v. California, 413 U.S. 15 (1973).
O. Signs emitting sound.
P. Signs located within five feet of a fire hydrant, traffic control sign, or traffic signal.
Q. Signs over four (4) feet in height located within the “Corner Vision Triangle” area adjacent to a public street intersection as defined in Merced Municipal Code Section 20.30.030.
R. Signs within 10 feet of a driveway or alleyway entrance or exit from the public street.
20.62.060 Required address numbers.
All commercial uses, industrial uses, and residential uses of over four (4) units shall install street address numbers of at least six (6) inches high that are clearly visible from the nearest street.
Sample street address numb ers shall be shown on all construction drawings for building permits and on building elevations required for any City permit. The numbers shall be considered an PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
5 architectural feature with color and/or material consistent with the building trim. Street address numbers shall not count toward the number or amount of signage allowed on a site.
20.62.070 Permits required.
A. No sign shall be erected, altered, reconstructed, or relocated without a sign permit. A permit is not required for ordinary maintenance and repairs to signs and for temporary signs on private property that conform to the standards of this Chapter. The Development Services Director will review all applications for sign permits for consistency with this Chapter.
B. Signs that project over or extend into a public street or sidewalk shall also require approval of an encroachment permit or license agreement by the City Engineer pursuant to the provisions of Title 12 of the Municipal Code.
C. Consent of the property owner and business owner is required befor e any sign permit may be approved.
20.62.080 Sign design principles.
The following sign design principles should be used as criteria for review and approval of sign permits and master sign programs. Applications for sign permits or master sign programs that are determined by the Development Services Director to be substantially inconsistent with these sign design principles may be denied.
A. Architectural Compatibility. A sign, including its supporting structure, if any, should be designed as an integral design element of a building’s architecture and be architecturally compatible, including color and scale, with any building to which the sign is to be attached. A sign that covers a window or that spills over “natural” boundaries or architectural features and obliterates parts of upper floors of buildings is considered detrimental to visual order and attractiveness of the city . Common indicators of compatibility are quality sign design and construction, proportional size and scale, and use of materials, shapes, textures, and colors that complement the building’s architectural style and the surrounding environment.
B. Legibility. The size and proportion of the elements of the sign’s message, including logos, letters, icons, and other graphic images, should be based on the average distance and average travel speed of the viewer. Sign messages oriented toward pedestrians should typic ally be smaller than those oriented toward automobile drivers. Colors chosen for the sign text and/or graphics should have sufficient contrast with the sign background to be easily read during both day and night. Symbols and logos can be used in place of words. Signs deemed too difficult to read based on one or more of these criteria may be considered detrimental to public safety.
C. Placement. Often, a building’s architectural details create logical places for signage. Signs should not cover or interrupt arch itectural details or ornaments of a building’s façade. On buildings with a monolithic or plain façade, signs should establish or continue appropriate design rhythm, scale, and proportion. Well-designed and well-located retail signs create visual interest and continuity with other storefronts on the same or adjacent buildings. Signs deemed to be architecturally incompatible based on their placement on the building may be considered detrimental to visual order and attractiveness of the City. Signs should not obstruct windows or doors except as allowed by this chapter.
D. Materials. Signs shall be made of sturdy, durable materials. Paper, cardboard, or other material subject to rapid deterioration can only be used for signs that comply with applicable PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
6 requirements for temporary signs. Fabric signs are restricted to awnings, canopies, flags, temporary building signs, and temporary freestanding signs. Signs deemed to not be made of durable materials may be considered detrimental to both public safety and visual order and attractiveness of the City.
20.62.090 Rules for sign measurement.
A. For the purposes of this Chapter, lot frontage shall be calculated as follows:
1. If a lot fronts on two stre ets (excluding alleyways) , both frontages shall be used to determine the allowable sign placement area.
2. If a lot fronts on three or more streets (excluding alleyways) , the length of only two contiguous sides shall be added together to determine allowable sign placement area.
B. The building frontage shall be the building facade in which main customer access is provided to the establishment. Building frontage is considered continuous if projections or recesses in the building facade do not exceed 10 feet in any direction. For buildings with two or more frontages, the length of the building frontage and allowable sign placement area shall be calculated separately for each building frontage. See Figure 20.62.090-1.
Figure 20.62.090-1
Building Frontage Calculation Examples
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
7 C. The area of an individual sign shall be calculated as follows.
1. Sign area shall include the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, 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.
2. Where two 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 45 degrees or less from one another, the sign area shall be calculated as the area of one (1) face. Where the two (2) faces ar e not equal in size, the larger sign face shall be used. Where two (2) faces of a double -faced sign are located more than two (2) feet or 45 degrees from one another, both sign faces shall be counted toward sign area.
3. On a three-faced sign, where at least one interior angle is 45 degrees or less, the sign area shall be calculated as the sum of the largest and the smallest face. In all other situations involving a sign with three or more sides, the sign area shall be calculated as the sum of all faces.
4. Three-Dimensional Signs. The size of signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks), shall be calculated as the sum of the square footage of the two adjacent sides of the smallest theoretical cube that would encompass the sign.
Figure 20.62.090-2
Illustration of three-faced and three-dimensional signs
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
8 D. The height of a sign shall be calculated as follows.
1. Building sign height: The height of a building sign shall be the vertical distance measured from the ground level directly beneath the sign to the highest point at the top of the sign, including any structural or architectural components of the sign.
2. Freestanding sign height: The height of a freestanding sign shall be measured as the vertical distance from grade at the edge of the right -of-way along which a freestanding sign is placed to the highest point of the freestanding sign, including any structural or architectural components of the sign. When the grade at the edge of the right -of-way is higher than the site on which the sign is placed, that portion of the sign below the grade at the edge of the right-of-way shall not be included in determining the freestanding sign's overall height.
Freestanding signs oriented towards a freeway shall be measured from the site’s finished grade or pad, whichever is lower.
3. Freestanding sign height clearance: Sign clearance shall be measured as the smallest vertical distance between finished grade and the lowest point of the sign, including any framework or other embellishments.
4. Shopping center signs: For the purpose of determining the allowed number and size of signs, an integrated shopping center shall be considered as one site.
E. Illustrations of rules for sign measurement are shown in Figure 20.62.090-3. If an interpretation discrepancy exists between the illustrations and the text of this Section, the text shall prevail.
Figure 20.62.090-3
Illustration of Rules for Sign Calculation & Height Measurement
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
9 20.62.100 Sign standards on developed sites by zone district.
A. For the purpose of this Chapter, signs are grouped into four (4) types: permanent building signs, permanent freestanding signs, temporary building signs, and temporary freestanding signs. Figure 20.62.100-1 illustrates the types of signs. The sign types are also defined in Section 20.62.360.
B. This Section establishes standards for the number of signs, size of signs, placement of signs, and illumination of signs for developed sites based on the zone district in which the signs are located. New signs placed on private property shall conform to these standards.
1. Table 20.62.100-1 establishes sign standards for residential uses in residential zones.
2. Table 20.62.100-2 establishes sign standards for commercial and office uses in residential zones.
3. Table 20.62. 100-3 e stablishes sign standards for residential uses in all non-residential zones.
4. Table 20.62.100-4 establishes sign standards for commercial and office uses in General Commercial, Neighborhood Commercial, Shopping Center Commercial, Thoroughfare Commercial, Village Commercial, and Planned Development Zones.
5. Table 20.62. 100-5 establishes sign standards for commercial and office uses in the Regional/Central Commercial Zone.
6. Table 20.62. 100-6 establishes sign standards for commercial and office uses in Office Commercial, Business Park, and Downtown Office Zones.
7. Table 20.62.100-7 establishes sign standards for commercial and office uses in Downtown Core and Downtown Commercial Zones.
8. Table 20.62. 100-8 establishes sign standards for commercial and office uses in Pub lic Facility, Parks and Open Space, and Public Parking District Zones.
9. Table 20.62.100-9 establishes sign standards for commercial, office, and industrial uses in Agriculture and Urban Transition Zones.
10. Table 20.62.100-10 establishes sign standards for co mmercial, office, and industrial uses in all industrial zones.
11. For the purpose of the tables identified in this Section, uses that are not considered residential, office, or industrial shall be considered commercial uses. This includes public assembly and community uses.
12. Sign standards for uses within a Planned Development Zone shall be those standards in the tables in this Section established for the Zoning District that is equivalent to the site’s General Plan Land Use Designation per Table 20.06-1 (“Base Zoning Districts”). Special standards for signs may be established with the adoption of the Planned Development Zone that modify and supersede the standards in this Section.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
10 Figure 20.62.100-1
Illustration of Types of Signs
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
11 Table 20.62.100-1
Sign Standards for Residential Uses in All Residential Zones Use Type of Sign Number of Signs Maximum Size
of Sign Face
Maximum
Sign
Placement
Type of Illumination
Applicable zone districts: Rural Residential, Low Density Residential, Low Medium Density Residential, Inner Village Residential, Outer Village Residential, Medium Density Residential, High Density Residential, Mobile Home Residential, and Residential Planned Development
One to
four
residences
on the
parcel
Permanent
Building Sign 1 per residence 2 square feet 8 feet
External illumination or
internal illumination
allowed in accordance with
section 20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign
No permanent
freestanding signs
allowed
N/A N/A N/A
Temporary
Building Sign 1 per parcel 12 square feet
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline
No illumination
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
Up to 1 per unit on the
property
Up to 4 square
feet
Up to 2 feet
high No illumination
More than
four
residences
on the
parcel
Permanent
Building Sign
1 for each street
frontage that is longer
than 25 feet, up to a
maximum of 2 signs,
plus 1 additional sign
if cumulative street
frontage is more than
400 feet
24 square feet
per sign
20 feet above
base of
building
External & internal
illumination allowed in
accordance with section
20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign
1 per public driveway
entrance. The sign
must be a monument
sign, except within the
Old 99 and Freeway
Overlay Districts.
24 square feet
6 feet
except no
higher than 4
feet unless it
is outside the
Corner
Vision
Triangle Area
External & internal
illumination allowed in
accordance with section
20.62.160
Temporary
Building Sign Up to 2 per parcel
16 square feet
cumulative of all
temporary signs
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline
No illumination
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
Up to 5 per parcel
1 sign up to 16
square feet, all
others up to 4
square feet
1 sign up to 5
feet high, all
others up to 3
feet high
No illumination
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
12 Table 20.62.100-2
Sign Standards for Commercial and Office Uses in All Residential Zones Use Type of
Sign Number of Signs Maximum Size
of Sign Face
Maximum
Sign
Placement
Type of
Illumination
Applicable zone districts: Rural Residential, Low Density Residential, Low Medium Density Residential, Inner Village Residential, Outer Village Residential, Medium Density Residential, High Density Residential, Mobile Home Residential, and Residential Planned Development Commercial
and office
uses
Permanent
Building
Sign
1 per building
frontage. New can or
cabinet signs are not
allowed as a sign
type if sign is
internally
illuminated.
1 square foot per
lineal building
frontage on the
main frontage,
and 1/2 square
foot per lineal
building frontage
on other allowed
building frontages
2 feet below
height of
building
wall
External & internal
illumination allowed
in accordance with
section 20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign
1 per parcel. The sign
must be a monument
sign, except within
the Old 99 and
Freeway Overlay
Districts.
24 square feet
6 feet
except no
higher than
4 feet unless
it is outside
the Corner
Vision
Triangle
Area
External & internal
illumination allowed
in accordance with
section 20.62.160
Commercial
and office
uses
Temporary
Building
Sign
1 sign regardless of
number of residential
units on the parcel
4 square feet
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline
No illumination
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
1 per parcel 4 square feet 3 feet high No illumination
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
13 Table 20.62.100-3
Sign Standards for Residential Uses in Non-residential Zones Use Type of
Sign Number of Signs Maximum Size of Sign
Face
Maximum
Sign
Placement
Type of
Illumination
Applicable zone districts: General Commercial, Neighborhood Commercial, Shopping Center Commercial, Thoroughfare Commercial, Village Commercial, Regional/Central Commercial, Office Commercial, Business Park, Downtown Core, Downtown Office, Downtown Commerc ial, Public Facility, Public Parking District, Parks and Open Space, Agriculture, Urban Transition, Light Industrial, Heavy Industrial , and Planned Development
Residential
uses
Permanent
Building
Sign
1 sign regardless of
the number of
residential units on
the parcel
1 square foot per lineal
building frontage on the
main frontage, and 1/2
square foot per lineal
building frontage on other
allowed building frontages
8 feet
Internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign
1 per residential
driveway entrance.
The sign must be a
monument sign,
except within the
Old 99 and
Freeway Overlay
Districts.
24 square feet
10 feet
except no
higher than
4 feet unless
it is outside
the Corner
Vision
Triangle
Area
External &
internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Temporary
Building
Sign
1 sign regardless of
number of
residential units on
the parcel
4 square feet
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline
No
illumination
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
1 per parcel 4 square feet 3 feet high No
illumination
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
14 Table 20.62.100-4
Sign Standards for Commercial and Office Uses in General Commercial, Neighborhood Commercial, Shopping Center Commercial, Thoroughfare Commercial, Village Commercial, and Planned Development Zones
Use Type of
Sign Number of Signs Maximum Size of Sign
Face
Maximum
Sign
Placement
Type of
Illumination
Applicable zone districts: General Commercial, Neighborhood Commercial, Shopping Center Commercial, Thoroughfare Commercial, Village Commercial, and Planned Development Commercial
and office
uses
Permanent
Building
Sign
No maximum
number. New can
or cabinet signs are
not allowed as a
sign type.
1 square foot per 1 lineal
foot on the main building
frontage up to a maximum
of 350 square feet, and 1/2
square feet per 1 lineal foot
on other allowed building
frontages up to a maximum
of 100 square feet
2 feet below
height of
building
External &
internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign for
Individual
Businesses.
See note
below.
1 per each street
frontage longer
than 25 feet.
The sign must be a
monument sign,
except within the
Old 99 and
Freeway Overlay
Districts.
40 square feet per face.
8 feet except
no higher
than 4 feet
unless it is
outside the
Corner
Vision
Triangle
Area
External &
internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Temporary
Building
Sign
1 for each business
establishment or
separate use with
an exterior building
wall
16 feet per sign
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline or
parapet
External
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
1 for each business
establishment or
separate use with
an exterior building
wall; if there are
more than 4
businesses on the
site, then 1
additional sign for
every street
frontage
4 square feet for each
separate business; 32 square
feet for the 1 additional sign
for each street frontage
3 feet high
for each
separate
business
sign; 8 feet
for the 1
additional
sign for each
street
frontage
External
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
NOTE: In addition to the above, “Shopping Center Signs” are allowed per the provisions of Section 20.62.140.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
15 Table 20.62.100-5
Sign Standards for Commercial and Office Uses in the Regional/Central Commercial and Planned Development Zones
Use Type of
Sign Number of Signs Maximum Size of Sign
Face
Maximum
Sign
Placement
Type of
Illumination
Applicable zone districts: Regional/Central Commercial and Planned Development Commercial
and office uses
Permanent
Building
Sign
1 per building frontage
that does not face a
residential use. New
can or cabinet signs
are not allowed as a
sign type.
1.5 square feet per 1 lineal
foot on the main building
frontage up to a maximum
of 500 square feet, and 1/2
square feet per 1 lineal foot
on other allowed building
frontages up to a maximum
of 200 square feet
2 feet below
height of
building
External &
internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign for
Individual
Businesses.
See note
below.
1 per each street
frontage longer than 25
feet
The sign must be a
monument sign, except
within the Old 99 and
Freeway Overlay
Districts.
40 square feet per face.
8 feet
except no
higher than
4 feet unless
it is outside
the Corner
Vision
Triangle
Area
External &
internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Temporary
Building
Sign
1 for each business
establishment or
separate use with an
exterior building wall
16 square feet per sign
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline or
parapet
External
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
No more than 2 per
parcel frontage
(otherwise would be
way too many for the
Mall or other large
centers)
4 square feet for each 4 feet
External
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
NOTE: In addition to the above, “Shopping Center Signs” are allowed per the provisions of Section 20.62.140.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
16 Table 20.62.100-6
Sign Standards for Commercial and Office Uses in Office Commercial, Business Park, and Downtown Office Zones
Use Type of
Sign Number of Signs Maximum Size of Sign
Face
Maximum
Sign
Placement
Type of
Illumination
Applicable zone districts: Office Commercial, Business Park, Downtown Office, and Planned Development Office and
Commercial
uses, i.e., all
non-
residential
uses
Permanent
Building
Sign
1 per building
plus 1 for each
tenant with more
than 20 feet of
building frontage.
New can or
cabinet signs are
not allowed as a
sign type.
35 square feet per sign, or
50 square feet if two or
more allowed signs are
combined into 1 shared sign
4 feet below
height of
building
Internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign for
individual
businesses.
See note
below.
1 per parcel.
The sign must be
a monument sign,
except within the
Old 99 and
Freeway Overlay
Districts.
24 square feet
6 feet
except no
higher than
4 feet unless
it is outside
the Corner
Vision
Triangle
Area
Internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Temporary
Building
Sign
1 for each
business
establishment or
separate use with
an exterior
building wall
16 square feet per sign
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline or
parapet
No
illumination
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
1 for each
business
establishment or
separate use with
an exterior
building wall; If
there are more
than 4 businesses
on the site, then 1
additional sign for
every street
frontage
4 square feet for each
separate business; 32 square
feet for the 1 additional sign
for each street frontage
3 feet high
for each
separate
business
sign; 8 feet
for the 1
additional
sign for each
street
frontage
No
illumination
NOTE: In addition to the above, “Shopping Center Signs” are allowed per the provisions of Section 20.62.140.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
17 Table 20.62.100-7
Sign Standards for Commercial and Office Uses in Downtown Core and Downtown Commercial Zones
Use Type of
Sign
Number of
Signs
Maximum Size of Sign
Face
Maximum
Sign
Placement
Type of
Illumination
Applicable zone districts: Downtown Core, Downtown Commercial Commercial
and office
uses, i.e., all
non-
residential
uses
Permanent
Building
Sign
1 per building
frontage that
does not face a
residential use
(excluding blade
signs). New can
or cabinet signs
are not allowed
as a sign type
1 square foot per 1 lineal
foot of building up to a
maximum of 75 square feet;
1 foot below
height of
building
External &
internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign
No permanent
freestanding
signs allowed
No permanent freestanding
signs allowed
No
permanent
freestanding
signs
allowed
No permanent
freestanding
signs allowed
Temporary
Building
Sign
1 per tenant 16 square feet
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline or
parapet
No
illumination
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
Not allowed
unless within
Downtown
overlay zone;
See Section
20.62.110
10 square feet per side 6 feet
External
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
18 Table 20.62.100-8
Sign Standards* for Commercial and Office Uses in Public Facility, Parks and Open Space, and Public Parking District Zones
Use Type of
Sign Number of Signs Maximum Size of Sign
Face
Maximum
Sign
Placement
Type of
Illumination
Applicable zone districts: Public Facility, Parks and Open Space, Public Parking District
Commercial
and office
uses,
Permanent
Building
Sign
1 per building
plus 1 for each
tenant with more
than 20 feet of
building frontage.
New can or
cabinet signs are
not allowed as a
sign type.
35 square feet per sign, or
50 square feet if two or
more allowed signs are
combined into 1 shared sign
4 feet below
height of
building
External
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign
1 per driveway
entrance.
The sign must be
a monument sign,
except within the
Old 99 and
Freeway Overlay
Districts.
24 square feet
6 feet except
no higher
than 4 feet
unless it is
outside the
Corner
Vision
Triangle
Area
External &
internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Temporary
Building
Sign
No specific limit
– As needed to
perform public
functions
No specific limit – As
needed to perform public
functions
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline or
parapet
No
illumination
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
No specific limit
– As needed to
perform public
functions
No specific limit – As
needed to perform public
functions
No specific
limit – As
needed to
perform
public
functions
No
illumination
*Standards do not apply to City of Merced signage.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
19 Table 20.62.100-9
Sign Standards for Commercial, Office, and Industrial Uses in Agriculture and Urban Transition Zones
Use Type of
Sign
Number of
Signs
Maximum Size of Sign
Face
Maximum
Sign Height
Type of
Illumination
Applicable zone districts: Agriculture, Urban Transition Commercial,
office, and
industrial
uses,
Permanent
Building
Sign
1 per building 25 square feet 8 feet
External &
internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign
1 per parcel.
The sign must be
a monument
sign, except
within the Old
99 and Freeway
Overlay
Districts.
24 square feet
6 feet except
no higher
than 4 feet
unless it is
outside the
Corner
Vision
Triangle
Area
External
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Temporary
Building
Sign
1 for each
business
establishment or
separate use with
an exterior
building
16 square feet per sign
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline or
parapet
No
illumination
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
1 for each
business
establishment or
separate use with
an exterior
building wall. If
there are more
than 4 businesses
on the site, then
1 additional sign
for every street
frontage.
4 square feet for each
separate business. 32square
feet for the 1 additional sign
for each street frontage
3 feet high
for each
separate
business
sign. 8 feet
for the 1
additional
sign for each
street
frontage
No
illumination
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
20 Table 20.62.100-10
Sign Standards for Commercial, Office, and Industrial Uses in All Industrial Zones Use Type of
Sign
Number of
Signs
Maximum Size of Sign
Face
Maximum
Sign Height
Type of
Illumination
Applicable zone districts: Light Industrial, Heavy Industrial Industrial,
Commercial,
and office
uses, i.e., all
non-residential
uses
Permanent
Building
Sign
Up to 3 per
building
1 square foot for each lineal
foot of street frontage up to
a maximum of 500 square
feet; maximum size is for
the sum of all signs
2 feet below
height of
building
External &
internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign
1 per driveway
entrance.
The sign must
be a monument
sign, except
within the Old
99 and Freeway
Overlay
Districts.
24 square feet
10 feet
except no
higher than
4 feet unless
it is outside
the Corner
Vision
Triangle
Area
External &
internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.160
Temporary
Building
Sign
1 for each
business
establishment
or separate use
with an exterior
building wall
16 square feet per sign
2 feet below
bottom of
roofline or
parapet
No
illumination
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
1 for each
business
establishment
or separate use
with an exterior
building wall; if
there are more
than 4
businesses on
the site, then 1
additional sign
for every street
frontage
4 square feet for each
separate business; 32 square
feet for the 1 additional sign
for each street frontage
3 feet high
for each
separate
business
sign; 8 feet
for the 1
additional
sign for each
street
frontage.
No
illumination
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
21 20.62.110 Old 99 Overlay District.
A. The sign standards in Section 20.62. 100 are modified in accordance with this Section for parcels located within the Old 99 Overlay District. The area of Old 99 Overlay District is defined as the area shown in Figure 20.62.110-1.
Figure 20.62.110-1
Old 99 Overlay District Boundary
B. In addition to the signs allowed in Section 20.62.100, parcels located within the Old 99 Overlay District are allowed one (1) permanent freestanding sign not to exceed 200 square feet with a maximum height of 25 feet. The sign may be internally or externally illuminated. This sign shall be in addition to the signs allowed by Section 20.62.100.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
22 20.62.120 Downtown Overlay District.
A. The sign standards for non-residential uses in Section 20.62.100 are superseded by this Section for parcels located within the Downtown Overlay District. The area of the Downtown Overlay District is defined as the area shown in Figure 20.62.120-1.
Figure 20.62.120-1
Downtown Overlay District Boundary
B. In place of signs allowed in Section 20.62. 100, this Section establishes standards for the number of signs, size of signs, placement of signs, and illumination of signs for non-residential uses in the Downtown Overlay District. Table 20.62.120-1 establishes specific regulations for non-residential uses for permanent building signs, permanent freestanding signs, temporary building signs, and temporary freestanding signs.
C. In addition to signs allowed in Section 20.62.100, one (1) additional permanent building sign oriented to pedestrians may be allowed up to 10 square feet. The sign type is limited to a projecting sign or an arcade or hanging sign. A minimum 8-foot clearance shall be provided under signs hanging over pedestrian paths of travel.
D. In addition to signs allo wed in Section 20.62.100, window signs placed on the inside of the window are allowed. Signs shall not cover more than 20 percent of the window.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
23 Table 20.62.120-1
Sign Standards for Non-residential uses in the Downtown Overlay District Type of
Sign Number and Type of Signs Maximum Size of Sign Face Maximum Sign Height
Type of
Illumination
Applicable to non-residential uses in the Downtown Overlay District:
Permanent
Building
Sign
Maximum size of sign per
frontage is cumulative and
may be 1 sign or divided into
multiple signs. New can or
cabinet signs are not allowed
as a sign type. Signs may
include awning signs, blade
signs in accordance with
Section 20.62.120(E), or
canopy-mounted signs
1 square foot per 1 lineal foot
of building frontage if a multi-
story building contains non-
residential uses in one of the
upper floors, the maximum
sizes shall be increased by 50
percent
2 feet below
the roofline
or parapet
for single-
story
buildings;
No more
than 15 feet
above the
roofline for
multi-story
buildings
Internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.130
Permanent
Freestanding
Sign
1 permanent freestanding signs
allowed only if the building
does not directly front on the
public sidewalk
24 square feet
6 feet
except no
higher than
4 feet unless
it is outside
the Corner
Vision
Triangle
Area
Internal
illumination
allowed in
accordance
with section
20.62.130
Temporary
Building
Sign
1 per business; all corners of
the signs shall be attached to
the building
16 square feet
2 feet below
the roofline
or parapet
for single-
story
buildings;
30 feet for
multi-story
buildings
No
illumination
Temporary
Freestanding
Sign
1 per business; sign type
limited to A-frame or
structurally similar type of
sign placed on the site or
adjacent sidewalk within 15
feet of the building entrance;
sign shall be placed so that a
minimum 4-foot-wide
pedestrian path of travel is
maintained on the sidewalk
10 square feet per side 6 feet No
illumination
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
24 E. Blade signs are counted towards the maximum allowed permanent building sign area for a particular parcel . Blade signs may be permitted in Downtown Overlay District , by an application for administrative staff review through the planning department, if the following requirements are met:
1. A blade sign must have a vertical clearance of eight (8) feet above the sidewalk or other public right-of-way and cannot exceed a height of more than six (6) feet above the height of the entryway of the building on which the sign is mounted or as otherwise approved by the planning commission through the approval of a comprehensive master sign program.
2. A blade sign shall not exceed five (5) square feet of signage per side, shall be placed at least six (6) inches away from the building wall and the edge of the sign nearest the building, and shall not project more than 42 inches from the building wall on which it is mounted.
3. A blade sign must be attached by a wrought iron or similar metal framework to the building wall. Materials, color, and arrangement of the sign shall be compatible and consistent with the building and neighboring structures.
20.62.130 Freeway Overlay District.
A. The sign standards in Section 20.62. 100 are modified in accordance with this Section for parcels located within the Freeway Overlay District. The Freeway Overlay District is defined as the area shown in Figure 20.62.130-1 and Figure 20.62.130-2.
B. In addition to the signs allowed in Section 20.62.100, parcels in the Freeway Overlay District with a commercial use may, upon issuance of a freeway-oriented sign permit, establish a pole sign or a pylon sign consistent with the following standards:
1. There shall be a maximum of one such pole or pylon sign per parcel.
2. The sign shall have a maximum of two sides.
3. The maximum size shall be 100 square feet per side.
4. The maximum height shall be 90 feet.
5. The sign shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from all property lines and rights-of-way.
6. The sign shall be set back a minimum 40 feet from any residential zone district.
7. The sign shall be located in a landscaped planter at least three (3) feet wider than the base of the sign on all sides. The planter may encroach into the required minimum sign setback areas.
C. In lieu of the single sign allowed in Subsection B above, up to six (6) multiple commercial uses that are located on the same parcel or uses that are located on adjacent parcels may, upon issuance of a freeway-oriented sign permit, establish a pylon sign consistent with the following standards:
1. There shall be a maximum of one such pole or pylon sign per parcel.
2. The sign shall have a maximum of two sides.
3. The maximum size shall be 100 square feet per commercial use per side.
4. The maximum height shall be 90 feet.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
25 5. The sign shall be set back a minimum of 15 feet from all property lines and rights-of-way.
6. The sign shall be set back a minimum 80 feet from any residential zone district.
7. The sign shall be located in a landscaped planter at least three (3) feet wider than the base of the sign on all sides. The planter may encroach into the required minimum sign setback areas.
D. Freeway-oriented signs may be internally lit but shall not be externally lit. Signs must be compliant with Chapter 2 of the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) which contains guidance for signs on highways and private roads.
Figure 20.62.130-1
Freeway Overlay District Boundary – Part 1
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
26 Figure 20.62.130-2
Freeway Overlay District – Part 2
20.62.140 Additional shopping center signs.
A. Shopping centers or office complexes with a mix of retail and /or professional office tenants having a combined total of 25,000 square feet or more of gross floor area and located within a commercial zone and a P-D zone may be allowed a n additional permanent freestanding or permanent building sign beyond what is allowed in Section 20.62.100 if the sign conforms to the following provisions:
1. The shopping center sign may advertise the name of the center, the tenants in the center, or both the center and tenant names. Tenant advertising on a shopping center sign is not counted as part of the overall sign area permitted by Table 20.62.100-4. The area of the name of the shopping center is in addition to the permitted copy area. Only advertising for businesses located on the parcel is allowed.
2. The sign may be illuminated unless adjacent to residential uses , in which case the Development Services Director may require conditions on the type of illumination to protect against negative effects on the adjacent residential uses. The sign must be constructed of a material that is compatible with the texture and materials of the shopping center buildings. Individual letters and logos may be internally illuminated.
3. Materials, color, and arrangement shall be compatible and consistent with the shopping center buildings.
4. A maximum of two (2) shopping center signs on one (1) arterial street may be allowed. At least 400 feet of combined arterial street frontage is required to qualify for one (1) sign,
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
27 except that shopping centers existing at the time of adoption of this Section meeting all other requirements of this Section are not bound by this requirement. An additional eight hundred (800) feet of frontage is required for a second sign.
5. The maximum height and size allowances for shopping center signs are different in the Neighborhood Commercial (C -N), Thoroughfare Commercial (C -T), and Regional/Community Commercial (R-C) land use designations or Planned Developments with the equivalent General Plan designation. See Table 20.62.140-1 below:
Table 20.62.140-1
Shopping Center Sign Size
Neighborhood Commercial /
Thoroughfare Commercial
Regional / Community
Commercial
Maximum Height (as
measured from top of
sidewalk or curb)
12.5 feet plus 2 feet for
appurtenances
25 feet high plus 3 feet for
appurtenances
Structure Area
12.5 feet high maximum by 8 feet
wide maximum. 100 square feet per
face maximum.
20 feet high maximum by 13 feet
wide maximum. 260 square feet per
face maximum.
Sign Area 50% of Structure Area, not to exceed
50 square feet per face
50% of Structure Area, not to exceed
130 square feet per face
6. A minimum of 10 square feet is required for each tenant displayed on a shopping center sign.
7. The width of the foundation base of a shopping center permanent freestanding sign shall be a minimum of 80 percent of the sign face.
8. The sign structure shall have a minimum three-foot setback from any property line.
9. A building permit application to construct a shopping center sign shall be signed by all property owners of the shopping center.
B. With the adoption of a comprehensive master sign program in accordance w ith Section
20.62.180, a shopping center or office complex with a mix of retail and/or professional office tenants may be eligible for "bonus" sign area greater than allowed under an overall sign area permitted by Section 20.62.100.650.
1. A "bonus" of up to 30 percent shall be granted if a permanent copy is included on the shopping center sign that states "City of Merced," "Welcome to Merced," or equivalent language, as approved by the planning commission.
2. A "bonus" of up to 60 percent may be granted, pendin g approval by the planning commission, if enhanced design features (such as additional landscaping, water features, decorative artwork, seating areas, etc.) are incorporated into the shopping center.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
28 3. A “bonus of up to 70 percent may be granted if the criteria of both "a" or "b" above are met.
4. A "bonus" which would allow a "changeable copy sign" of no more than 50 percent of the total sign area to be incorporated into the shopping center sign; and if the owner agrees to allow the city to advertise city or community/city sponsored events, at the discretion of the city, on the sign on a continuous and ongoing basis as part of a continuous rotation of advertising or as otherwise defined by the planning commission. The planning commission may increase the total s ign area and/or reduce the amount of city advertising for unique circumstances, such as motion picture/performing arts theaters. Other than those city events above, the changeable copy sign shall not advertise any business, commodity, service, industry, or other activity, which is not sold, offered, or conducted on the premises upon which the sign is located or affixed.
5. A "bonus" consisting of an increased maximum allowable height of a shopping center sign, not to exceed 50 percent of the maximum allowable height spelled out in the table in Section 17.36.667.E, may be granted, pending approval by the Planning Commission, if the criteria for either "a" or "b" above are met and/or if the shopping center is located on the corner of two (2) arterial streets, as defined in the Merced General Plan.
20.62.150 Temporary building sign standards.
A. Temporary building signs in non-residential zones shall only be allowed for a total of six (6) months in any 12-month period for any single parcel or business.
B. Temporary building signs in non -residential zones over 4 square feet in size that will be in place for more than 30 days shall require a temporary sign pe rmit. With such a permit, the signs may be up to 30 square feet in size and may be in place for up to 6 months.
C. Feather banners, balloons, and banners shall not be used as permanent signs.
D. Temporary building signs shall not be internally illuminated.
20.62.152 Temporary freestanding sign standards.
A. Feather banners and balloons will be allowed only for grand openings and are not to exceed being on display in excess of 30 days.
B. Feather banners and balloons shall not be used as permanent signs.
C. Banners and feather banners shall be constructed of durable, wea ther-resistant materials not subject to rapid deterioration or fading and shall be professional in appearance. Acceptable materials include but are not limited to vinyl, nylon -reinforced vinyl, polyethylene or polyester-like materials, or durable fabric.
D. Temporary freestanding signs in non -residential zones shall not be placed in the following locations:
1. In any public right -of-way, including sidewalks, except as allowed by Section 10.62.110 in the Downtown Overlay District.
2. In parking lot driving lanes, drive aisles, or parking spaces.
3. On multi-use trails or sidewalks on private property if they would block a four-foot-wide pedestrian path of travel.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
29 4. Any location where the sign would block the pedestrian path of travel or access to a building.
5. Within 20 feet on either side or in front of a permanent freestanding sign.
6. Within 20 feet of an adjoining property line.
7. Within 20 feet from any other temporary freestanding sign.
8. Within five (5) feet of a public right-of-way.
E. Temporary freestanding signs shall be affixed to supporting structures made of a durable, rigid material such as, without limitation, wood, plastic, or metal. Freestanding signs placed on hard surfaces in conformance with this Chapter are exempt from this Subsection provided they have a weight and mass that makes them difficult to inadvertently move and they do not block a 4- foot-wide pedestrian path of travel , do not have any motorized or other such mechanism to cause them to move or flutter, and are only displayed between one hour be fore and one hour after the site’s establishment is open for business.
20.62.160 Illumination standards for signs.
The illumination of signs, from either an internal or external source, must be designed to avoid negative impacts on surrounding rights -of-way and properties. The following standards apply to all illuminated signs:
A. Sign lighting shall not be of an intensity or brightness that will create a nuisance for residential uses in a direct line of sight to the sign. Light sources shall be shielded from all adjacent buildings and streets. The lighting shall not create excessive glare to pedestrians and/or motorists and will not obstruct traffic control or any other public informational signs.
Illuminated signs located adjacent to any residential area shall be controlled by a rheostat or other acceptable method to reduce glare.
1. Illumination of signs shall be limited to a maximum illumination of 465 lumen per square foot (or 5,000 nits) during daylight hours and a maximu m illumination of 47 lumen per square foot (or 500 nits) between dusk to dawn as measured from the sign’s face . It is strongly recommended that automatic dimmers be installed in the sign.
2. Signs in residential zones may only be indirectly illuminated by a c oncealed light source, shall not remain illuminated between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., and shall not flash, blink, or fluctuate. Illuminated signs in residential zones must also be located on an Arterial or collector street.
B. Internally illuminated signs shall be designed with an opaque, semi -opaque, or matte finish background on the sign face. Internally illuminated signs shall only be located on arterial or collector streets. Internally illuminated signs must not be located within 100 feet of a residential zone.
C. Light sources for externally illuminated signs shall meet the following standards:
1. Low-pressure sodium lighting is the preferred light source to minimize undesirable light into the night sky.
2. High-pressure sodium, metal halide, fluoresc ent, quartz, LED, and incandescent light sources shall be fully shielded.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
30 3. Metal halide and fluorescent light sources shall be filtered. Most glass, acrylic, or translucent enclosures satisfy these filter requirements.
4. Mercury vapor light sources shall be prohibited.
D. External conduits, boxes, and other connections related to the function of a sign and associated lighting shall not be exposed nor pass through public right of way.
20.62.170 Sign regulations on undeveloped or developing sites.
A. Undeveloped sites shall be allowed a maximum of two temporary freestanding sign s with a maximum size of 32 square feet each. The maximum height shall be 10 feet. Signs shall be set back at least 10 feet from all property lines and the public right -of-way. Illumination of the sign is prohibited.
B. Developing sites, i.e. , construction sites, shall be allowed a maximum of two temporary freestanding signs or temporary building signs with a maximum size of 32 square feet each.
The maximum height shall be 10 feet. Signs shall be set back at least 10 feet from all property lines and the public right -of-way. Illumination is prohibited. Temporary signs that are not visible from any public right -of-way shall not be counted in the maximum number or size of signs.
C. In addition to any sign permitted pursuant to Subsection B above, residential subdivision sites where 10 or more new residences are offered for sale shall be allowed one temporary building sign or freestanding sign of a maximum size of 32 square feet. Illumination of the sign is prohibited. The maximum height shall be 10 feet. Additional temporary signs, temporary freestanding signs, and flags may be maintained within the boundaries of a residential subdivision provided that they are not visible from outside the residential subdivision and do not create a safety hazard by obstructing the clear view of pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
D. Construction locations (example: remodel of a building) Signs may be placed during a construction event pursuant to the conditions of a permit issued by the City on the lot .
Construction events begin on the date of the local structural permit approval and end on the date the permit is final or expires.
20.62.180 Signs placed in windows.
A. Signs affixed to windows shall not cover more than 20% of each window and shall be placed so that there is an unobstructed view of the interior of the premises.
B. Signs in windows shall not be counted toward the maximum allowable temporary or permanent building sign size.
20.62.190 Signs in public rights-of-way.
Only a governmental agency with authority over public right-of-way may place signs in the public right-of-way, with the following specific exceptions:
A. Building signs may be located in the Downtown Overlay Zone that project into the public right- of-way, provided that the width of the projecting sign is a maximum of four (4) feet and that the bottom of the sign is eight (8) feet above the sidewalk or finished grade below it. A n encroachment permit or licensing agreement is required.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
31 B. Building signs located on or under awnings in the Downtown Overlay Zone that meet the provisions of this Chapter.
C. Temporary freestanding signs placed on the public sidewalk in the Downtown Overlay Zone that meet the provisions of this Chapter and when a minimum 4-foot-wide clear path of travel is provided.
D. Government agencies, public institutions, and non -profit organizations may place banners on existing light poles in the public right of way, subject to a minor use permit issued by the Development Services Director and , if deemed necessary, an encroachment permit /license agreement issued by the City Engineer.
20.62.200 Comprehensive master sign programs.
A. The purpose of the comprehensive master sign program provisions is to provide a coordinated and flexible design approach to signage for Merced’s commercial shopping districts, industrial districts, and office parks. A master sign program is required for any site that con tains more than three (3) commercial establishments in a shopping center, industrial park, or office park.
B. The comprehensive master sign program shall consist of all permanent building signs and permanent freestanding signs on the premises that can be vie wed from a public street. The comprehensive master sign program shall establish a comprehensive design theme and set forth size, location, illumination, materials, and other design requirements for all signs.
C. A comprehensive master sign program may be approved by the Development Services Director as a minor use permit. The Planning Commission may approve a master sign program when it is proposed with a development project that requires a conditional use permit if the information is available at the time of conditional use permit issuance. Otherwise, the Director may approve with a minor use permit.
D. A comprehensive master sign program shall not be used to grant a special privilege nor provide more visibility or exposure than is available to similarly situated properties.
E. Comprehensive master sign programs shall feature a unified and coordinated approach to the materials, color, size, type, placement, and general design of signs proposed for a project or property.
F. Reasonable conditions of approval may be imposed to achieve the purposes of this Section and ensure internal sign design consistency on the site.
G. After approval of a comprehensive master sign program, no sign shall be erected, placed, painted, or maintained, except in conformance with such program, and such program shall be enforced in the same way as any provision in this section.
H. The master sign program and all conditions of approval applicable to a site shall be included with lease agreements for all leasable space subject to the comprehensive master sign program.
I. Approval of a comprehensive master sign program does not waive the permit requirements for individual signs that are subject to the program.
J. The Development Services Director may approve amendments to a comprehensive master sign program or at the Director’s discretion, may be referred to the original approving body.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
32 K. Proposed amendments to a comprehensive master sign program shall include written concurrence by the affected property owners.
20.62.210 Offsite temporary signs for residential subdivisions.
A. Residential subdivision sites where 10 or more new residences are offered for sale shall be allowed up to four (4) offsite temporary freestanding signs with a size not to exceed 32 square feet each and a height not to exceed 10 feet. Signs shall be located on private, non-residential zoned parcels, or on private, residential zoned parcels that are part of a residential subdivision under construction, vacant, and otherwise free from any structures or buildings. Banners and flags with or without an advertising message shall not be permitted offsite.
B. In addition to any sign permitted pursuant to Subsection A above, up to four (4) nonilluminated offsite temporary freestanding signs in an A-frame configuration, with a size not to exceed 12 square feet per face or four (4) feet in height, may be permitted per residential subdivision. A- frame signs shall be located on private, non -residential property or on public property behind any existing sidewalks, and in such a manner so as not to create a safety hazard by obstructing the clear view of, or otherwise hinder or impede, pedestrian and vehicular traffic. A -frame signs may only be displayed during operating hours for the residential subdivision sales office and shall be located no further than 1,500 feet from the subject residential subdivision entry.
20.62.220 Historic signs.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter , a sign which has been designated an historic resource in accordance with Chapter 17.54 or the reproduction of such a sign shall not be subject to the requirements of this Chapter, other than the requirement to obtain applicable building permits.
B. Notwithstanding any other provision hereof, a structure that has been designated an historic resource in accordance with Chapter 17.54 or a structure over two (2) stories within the downtown area are eligible to adopt a comprehensive master sign program that meet s the requirements of Section 20.62.200, and which may grant exceptions to the provisions of this Chapter.
C. The Planning Commission may allow or require specific refurbishment or alteration of the sign designated as a historic resource . The applicant shall provide illustrations to satisfactorily describe how the sign will look after refurbishment.
D. The Planning Commission may approve a change to the signed copy of a sign designated as a historic resource if it finds that the sign will retain its general historic appearance.
20.62.230 Signs with manual changeable copy.
A. Manual changeable copy is allowed on signs in residential zones or in conjuncti on with residential uses in non-residential zones with a minor use permit. (Examples of uses that may need such signs are public assembly, schools, multi-family, etc.) B. Manual changeable copy shall represent no more than 20% of the total allowable sign area on commercial signs in commercial or industrial zones.
C. This Section shall not apply to signs that indicate the price of motor vehicle fuel in conformance with the State Business and Professions Code that otherwise are in conformance with the other sections of this Title. Motor vehicle fuel price signs in conformance with State PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
33 Law shall be allowed and are exempt from size, height, and other requirements in this Ordinance that might interfere with them meeting the requirements of State law as regards to visibility, the prices being posted for all fuel types, the prices being visible from the public rights-of-way.
20.62.240 Signs with electronic changeable copy.
A. Electronic changeable copy may be allowed on signs in residential zones or in conju nction with residential uses in non-residential zones with a minor use permit. (Examples of uses that may need such signs are public assembly, schools, multi-family, etc.) B. Electronic changeable copy is allowed as a display medium on freestanding signs in the commercial and industrial zone districts with a Minor Use Permit if the sign face changes less than once per minute. This includes signs that indicate the price of motor vehicle fuel in conformance with the State Business and Professions Code that otherwise are in conformance with the other sections of this Title.
C. Electronic changeable copy is allowed as a display medium on freestanding signs with a Conditional Use Permit issued pursuant to this Title where the electronic copy changes more than once per minute.
D. Signs with electronic changeable copy shall meet the following standards:
1. The electronic sign face shall be directed in a manner that is not visible from the front or side of residential properties located in a residential zone district.
2. The electronic sign face shall be an integral part of the remainder of the sign area.
3. Electronic copy shall be limited to a maximum illumination of 465 lumen per square foot (or 5,000 nits) during daylight hours and a maximum illumination of 47 lumen per square foot (or 500 nits) between dusk to dawn as measured from the sign’s face . It is strongly recommended that automatic dimmers be installed in the sign.
4. No portion of the electronic changeable copy shall change more frequently than once per minute with a Minor Use Permit . The maximum electronic changeable copy allowed is once every eight (8) seconds with a Minor Use Permit. Scrolling, flashing, or other moving messages are not allowed.
5. The electronic sign shall not emit any audible sound, buzz, or noise.
6. Sign copy or electronic picture displays shall be limited to advertising related to the use(s) on the premises on which the freestanding sign is located, except for message substitution, as allowed in Section 20.62.030.
7. No change of lighting intensity may occur during a display or between displays except to respond to a change in ambient lighting conditions.
20.62.250 Digital display signs.
A. Digital display signs are allowed on freestanding signs with a Conditional Use Permit issued pursuant to this Title only within the Thoroughfare Commercial Zone, Regional/Central Commercial zone, General Commercial zone, Neighborhood Commercial zone, Commercial Shopping Center zone, Freeway Overlay District, Old 99 Overlay District , and any Planned PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
34 Development zone that has the equivalent General Plan Land Use Designation per Table 20.06- 1 (“Base Zoning Districts”) to the previously mentioned zones.
B. Digital display signs shall meet the following standards:
1. The digital display sign face shall be directed in a manner that is not visible from the front or side of residential properties located in a residential zone district.
2. The digital display sign face shall be an integral part of the remainder of the sign area and shall be fra med with a sign structure border that is a minimum of three (3) inches wide around the edge of the digital display area.
3. The d igital display sign shall be limited to a maximum illumination of 465 lumen per square foot (or 5,000 nits) during daylight hours and a maximum illumination of 47 lumen per square foot (or 500 nits) between dusk to dawn as measured from the sign’s face . It is strongly recommended that automatic dimmers be installed in the sign.
4. No portion of the digital display sign face shall change mo re frequently than once every eight (8) seconds. No portion of the digital display sign face shall flash, blink, or include a video display.
5. The electronic sign shall not emit any audible sound, buzz, or noise.
6. Sign copy shall be limited to advertising related to the use(s) on the premises on which the freestanding sign is located, except for message substitution, as allowed in Section
20.62.030.
7. No change of lighting intensity may occur during a display or between displays except to respond to a change in ambient lighting conditions.
20.62.260 Flags and flagpoles.
A. Flags that do not include commercial advertising on flagpoles shall not count toward the maximum sign area.
B. Flagpoles shall not be located within any required interior side or rear building setback areas.
Flagpoles may be mounted on the ground or on the roof or wall of a building.
C. The maximum height of a flagpole shall be as follows:
1. Flagpoles located in residential zone districts shall have a maximum height of 35 feet.
2. Flagpoles located in non-residential zones shall have a maximum height of 50 feet if mounted on the ground, or 20 feet plus the height of the building if mounted on a building.
The maximum height may be increased to 100 feet if the flagpole is located at least 200 feet from any property line or public right-of-way.
20.62.270 Search lights and klieg lights.
Search lights and klieg lights are prohibited, except when used for public safety purposes or when specifically approved with a temporary use permit for a special event.
20.62.280 Wall murals.
The City Council , Planning Commission, or Arts and Culture Advisory Commission may authorize a wall mural. When authorized, a mural would not be considered a sign for the purposes of this Chapter. A wall mural is to be public art, not for the purpose of identifying, advertising, or PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
35 drawing attention to a particular business, service, or economic activity . In the case that a mural is specifically identifying, advertising, or drawing attention to a particular business , the mural would need to be counted toward the allowable signage area for the business or activity and shall be subject to a sign permit. Less than 10% of the size of the mural may be used to identify the sponsor of the mural.
20.62.290 Off-premises signs in City right-of-way.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Title, the City Council may approve, through a special right-of-way leasing agreement, the erection of an off-premises sign within the City right- of-way. It must be deemed under the City Council to provide community bene fit as defined and be under all the following circumstances:
A. The sign shall be for a land use that addresses specific community benefits or priorities ( i.e., the provision of groceries in a USDA-defined “food desert,” affordable housing, the provision of needed services within an income-qualified Census Tract, etc.).
B. The size, location, height, and othe r design standards for the sign shall be determined on a case-by-case basis through the licensing agreement.
C. The sign may incorporate a "changeable copy sign" of no more than 50 percent of the total actual sign area unless otherwise approved by the City Council.
D. The owner of the land use that provides the community benefits shall erect the sign and maintain it at their sole expense.
E. The owner shall agree to allow the City to advertise City or community/City sponsored events or emergency messages (traffic advisories, amber alerts, etc.), at the discretion of the City, on the sign on a continuous and ongoing basis as part of a continuous rotation of advertising or as otherwise defined by the City Council.
F. Other than those City events above and the land use above that provides community benefits, the changeable copy sign shall not advertise any business, commodity, service, industry , or other activity which is not sold, offered, or conducted on the premises upon which the sign is located or affixed.
20.62.300 Nonconforming signs.
A sign of any character lawfully occupying a site prior to the adoption of this Chapter or on the effective date of applicable amendments to this Chapter that, as a result of the adoption or amendment to, does not conform with the standards for the district in which it is located, shall be deemed to be a nonconforming sign, and may be displayed and maintained in said district .
Modifications to non-conforming signs may be allowed through a minor use permit.
20.62.310 Billboards.
A. No new billboard shall be permitted within the city after the adoption of this Chapter, except as provided in this Section.
B. Billboards existing in industrial zones on and prior to the adoption of this Chapter may continue to exist at their current location, subject to the provisions of this Chapter, and may be maintained or replaced from time to time, provided, however, that the total display area of any existing billboard shall not be enlarged in size or increased in height in any way.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
36 C. Billboards existing in any zone other than an industrial zone on and prior to the adoption of this Chapter are considered a nonconforming sign.
D. No part of a billboard shall include a digital display sign, manual changeable copy, or electronic changeable copy.
20.62.320 Maintenance of signs.
A. All signs and associated supporting structures shall be maintained in like -new condition, without rips, tears, fading, and similar damage that inevitably occurs as a result of normal wear and aging.
B. All signs shall be reasonably free from deterioration, rot, rust, and loosening so that they do not create a hazard to persons or property or constitute a nuisance.
C. Any sign or sign structure that is sagging, leaning, fallen, decayed, broken, deteriorated, ripped, torn, faded, or other deteriorating or dilapidated condition shall be promptly repaired to the satisfaction of the City or removed in accordance with City ordinance code 8.36.080.
D. Graffiti on a sign shall be removed by the property owner (or designee) within two (2) days of notice of its placement on such sign. If graffiti is not removed, it will be subject to City Ordinance 8.36.070.
20.62.330 Hazardous signs.
Whenever any sign, by virtue of its physical nature and condition, is deemed by the Development Services Director, Chief Building Official, or Public Works Director to be an immediate and serious threat to public safety, City personnel may remove the sign or repair the physical deficiency to the extent necessary to protect the public safety. The cost of such removal or repair shall be assessed against the sign owner.
20.62.340 Abandoned or obsolete signs.
An on-premises sign advertising an activity, business, service, or product must be removed within 90 days following the actual discontinuance of the activity, business, service, or product. If the sign is not so removed, the Development Services Director may have the sign removed in accordance with the public nuisance abatement provisions of this Title. A sign structure is not required to be removed, however, the sign face shall be removed or replaced with a blank face or other sign face consistent with this Chapter.
20.62.350 Illegal Signs.
Any sign, banner, or sign structure not erected, constructed, or located in conformance with this Chapter and not classified as a legal nonconforming sign is an illegal sign and is subject to abatement in accordance with the public nuisance abatement procedures of Section 8.40.080.
20.62.360 Enforcement.
Signs erected after the effective date of this Chapter that either do not conform to the provisions of this Chapter or are erected without obtaining a required permit are declared to be unlawful and a public nuisance. All signs declared to be unlawful by this Chapter and all persons erecting or maintaining them shall be subject to the provisions of Merced Municipal Code Section 1.09.020 PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
37 (Code Enforcement Authority and Powers) . The remedies provided for in this Section are cumulative and nonexclusive.
20.62.370 Definitions.
The following terms are defined for this Chapter. Illustrations of rules for sign measurement are shown in Figure 2 0.62.090-1. The accompanying images and Figure 20.62.360-1 are intended to illustrate some of the sign types that are defined in this Section. If an interpretation discrepancy exists between the illustrations and the text of this Section, the text shall prevail. "A-Frame sign" means a sign made of wood, plastic, or other lightweight and rigid material having the capability to stand on its own support(s) and being portable and movable.
"Animated sign" means a sign with action or motion, whether by flashing lights, color changes, wind, rotation, movement of any parts of the sign or letters or parts of the sign structure, or other motion. "Arcade sign" means a sign suspended from the ceiling of a covered pedestrian walkway, which is attached to the building and oriented perpendicular to the building face to which the covered walkway is attached.
"Awning sign" means a sign placed on a shelter supported entirely from the exterior wall of a building and composed of a frame covered with nonrigid material.
"Banner" means any flexible material, such as cloth, plastic, vinyl, paper, cardboard, or thin metal, with or without a "message", attached outdoors to a building, structure , or mounting device, or attached indoors to a building, structure, or mounting device so as to be visible from the exterior of a building, or structure. This definition includes a pennant, scroll, or bunting.
“Barber pole” means a pole with diagonal stripes of red and white or of red, white, and blue used as a sign for a barbershop that may or may not rotate.
“Billboard” means a sign which directs attention to a
business, community service , or entertainment not
exclusively related to the premises where such sign is
located.
"Blade sign" means a pedestrian -oriented, non -
internally illuminated double -faced sign, comprised of one (1) individual panel, projecting from the building
wall on which it is mounted.
"Business premises" means a specific business occupancy within a building or upon a parcel of land, typically having a specific address and discrete entrance(s) and exit(s).
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
38 "Can or cabinet sign" means a sign that contains all the text and/or logo symbols within a single en closed box- shaped cabinet where the translucent face of the sign can be interchanged to change the sign message without
having to remodel the cabinet. It is mounted to a wall or other surface and illuminated from within the cabinet.
"Changeable copy , elec tronic" or “electronic
changeable copy sign” means the display of a message
that can change by means of electronic lights, light
emitting diodes, video screens , or other illuminated
electronic or electric format.
"Changeable copy, manual" or ‘ manual changeable
copy sign” means the display of a message that can change by manually arranging and attaching individual letters, numbers, or symbols.
“Electronic digital display sign” means a sign that displays images with or without a message through the use of grid lights, cathode ray projections, light emitting diode displays, plasma screens, liquid crystal displays, fiber optics, or other similar electronic media that may be changed remotely through electronic means.
"Erect" means and includes erect, cons truct, place, relocate, enlarge, substantially alter, attach, suspend, paint, post, maintain, and display.
"Externally illuminated sign" means a sign which has light cast on its surface from an artificial exterior source installed for the purpose of illuminating the sign. "Flag" means a flat piece of cloth, with distinctive colors, patterns or symbols used to represent a country or group, having one end of the cloth attached to a vertical staff (directly or by a rope and pulley mechanism) and all other ends freely flowing under natural movement of wind. "Freestanding sign" means a sign which is permanently supported on the ground by one or more uprights, braces, poles, or other similar structural components that are not attached to any building.
This category includes both monument and pole signs.
"Frontage, building " means the distance between the two most distant corners of a building measured in a straight line along the building face.
"Frontage, street" means the distance between the two most distant corners of a site along a single street measured in a line along the street curb, including drive approaches, but excluding curb returns at street intersections.
"Height" means the distance measured vertically from grade to the highest point or portion of the object to be measured.
"Internally illuminated sign " means any sign whose illumination originates from within the structure of the sign and the source of which is not visible from the exterior of the sign. "Install" or "installation" means the act by which a sign is constructed or placed on land or a structure, or the act of attaching, painting, printing, producing, or reproducing, or using any other method or process by which a visual message is presented or placed upon a surface.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
39 "Message" means any form of visual communication presented on any type of media. It is not material whether the communication has any logical, practical, literary, or artistic significance or not. It includes any form or combination of letters, graphics, symbols, or designs. The term is not intended to include mono -color paint applied to the exterior, trim, fascia, or other architectural elements of a building for protection against the elements. "Monument sign" means a low-profile freestanding sign
supported by a structural base or other solid structural features other than support poles and may contain
signage on more than one side (see drawing below).
"Mural" means a sign painted on the exterior wall of a
building consisting of graphics or images, either alone or in combination with letters.
"Off-site", "off-site sign", or “off-premises sign” refers to a sign or banner that promotes or advertises goods,
services, or activities located or offered on a business premises or parcel that is separate from the parcel where the sign is located, even if the two sites or parcels are contiguous to each other.
"On-site", "on-site sign ", or “on -premises sign” refers to a sign or banner that promotes or advertises goods, services, or ac tivity located or offered on the business premises or parcel of property where the sign is located.
"Outdoors" means a location on undeveloped property or to the exterior of a building or structure. "Outdoor advertising" refers to the placement of a message on signs or banners located outdoors or located indoors in a manner such that the message is visible from the exterior of a building or structure.
"Outdoor advertising structure" means a structure erected or maintaine d for the main purpose of displaying commercial outdoor advertising and located on a site other than the site on which the advertised commercial use is located or on which the advertised commercial product is produced. “Painted Sign” refers to a sign that comprises only paint applied on a building or structure. "Parapet wall" means an exterior wall that extends vertically above the roofline. "Parcels" or "property" or similar references or descriptions shall refer to parcels defined or delineated by assessor parcel numbers maintained by the County tax assessor or as defined in the Glossary of this Code.
"Pedestrian access" means a doorway that has been designed for the primary use of the patrons or customers of that particular use.
"Permanent sign" means a sign that is solidly attached to a building, structure, or he ground by means of mounting brackets, bolts, welds, or other combination of attachment methods, thereby rendering the sign non -moveable or difficult to reposition without the use of machinery, cutting devices, or mechanical devices. See also "temporary sign."
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
40 "Placed" includes constructing, erecting, posting, painting, printing, tacking, nailing, gluing, sticking, carving, or otherwise fastening, affixing, or making visible in any manner whatsoever.
"Pole sign" means a permanently mounted, freestanding sign which is supported above the ground by one or more uprights, braces, poles, or other similar structural components.
"Roofline" means the highest point of a parapet wall or the main roof structure or the highest point of a parapet wall other than such architectural features as cupolas, pylons, projections , or raised portions of the roof.
“Rooftop or roof-mounted sign” means a sign that extends above the ridgeline of the roof of a building, or a sign attached to any portion of the roof of a building. Rooftop or roof-mounted signs are not allowed.
"Sign" means any letter or symbol made of cloth, metal, paint, paper, wood, or other material of any kind whatsoever placed for advertising, identification, written expression, or other similar purposes on the ground or on any wall, post, fence, building, structure, vehicle, or on any place whatsoever.
"Sign area" means the geome tric area of a sign including all elements such as board or frames, perforated or a solid background, ornamental embellishments, arrows, or other sign media. For the purposes of a freestanding sign the structural elements necessary to support the sign are included in the sign area.
"Sign copy" means any words, letters, numbers, figures, designs, or other symbolic representations incorporated into a sign face and/or its structure with the purpose of attracting attention to the subject matter.
"Sign face " mea ns the panel surface of a sign which carries the advertising, information, or identification message.
"Sign structure" means any structure that supports or is capable of supporting a sign. A sign structure may or may not be an integral part of a building. For the purpose of a freestanding sign, the sign structure shall include the aggregate area of the sign including the sign copy and all structural elements of the sign.
"Structural alteration " means any change to the sign
structure.
"Temporary sign" means a sign that is easily moveable,
and which is not attached to a building, structure, or the ground in such a manner as to be rendered a permanent
sign.
PUBLIC DRAFT – August 2023
41 Table 20.62.370-1
Illustration of Sign Types
1. Permanent Building
Sign (can or cabinet
sign)
2. Permanent Building
Sign
(blade/projecting
sign)
3. Permanent
Building Sign
(channel letter
sign)
4. Temporary
Building Sign
(banner)
5. Permanent Building
Sign (awning sign)
6. Permanent Building
Sign (canopy-
mounted sign)
7. Permanent
Building Sign
(arcade or
hanging sign)
8. Permanent
Building Sign
(directory sign)
9. Temporary Building
Sign (window sign)
10. Temporary
Freestanding Sign
(A-frame sign)
11. Permanent
Freestanding Sign
(pylon sign)
12. Permanent
Freestanding
Sign (pole sign)
13. Permanent
Freestanding Signs
(monument sign)
14. Permanent
Building Sign
(directional sign)