D E V E LO P M E N T S E RV I CE S | PLA N N IN G DIV IS IO N
Staff Report
City of Pomona Planning Commission
C I T Y O F P O M O N A
5 0 5 S O U T H G A R E Y A V E N U E , P O M O N A , C A 9 1 7 6 6 9 0 9 . 6 2 0 . 2 1 9 1
w w w . p o m o n a c a . g o v
July 9, 2025
FILE NO: SPA-001401-2024
A request for a Specific Plan Amendment to amend Pomona Corridor Specific Plan (PCSP) Section 2.9 “Sign Regulations” to require all signs in the PCSP area to comply with the sign regulations outlined in the Pomona Zoning and Development Code Section .630. “Signs”.
ADDRESS: Pomona Corridor Specific Plan Area
APPLICANT: City of Pomona
PROJECT PLANNER: Karina Diaz, Assistant Planner
ENVIRONMENTAL
REVIEW:
This project may be considered exempt for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the California CEQA Guidelines.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve SPA-001401-2024 and adopt PC Resolution No. 25-010 (Attachment No. 1)
Project Request:
The proposed Specific Plan Amendment is a request to remove Section 2.9 “Signs” in the Pomona Corridor Specific Plan (PCSP) and incorporate sign regulations from the newly adopted sign regulations in the Pomona Zoning and Development Code (PZDC) Section .630. “Signs” (Attachment No. 2).
Project Background:
On July 1, 2024, the Pomona City Council adopted Ordinance No. 4345, approving a comprehensive update to the Pomona Zoning and Subsidivion Ordinances. The new Pomona Zoning & Development Code (PZDC) succesfully implemented the goals and policies of the 2014 Pomona General Plan and met the grant objectives set by the California Department of Housing and Communtiy Development in its SB 2 and LEAP programs for permit streamlining to accelerate housing production. The zoning code update was intended to occur in two phases:
1. Phase I – Update Zoning & Development Code
2. Phase II – Update Sign and Landscaping Regulations
Revisions to Sign and Landscaping were proposed to come forth as two separate amendment s following the adoption of the new PZDC as Phase II. On April 7, 2025, the City Council unanimously approved the Second Reading
July 9, 2025 Planning Co mmission Staff Report
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of Ordinance No. 4357 and Zoning Code Amendment (CODE-001403-2024) with a 7 -0-0-0 vote. Ordinance No. 4357 went into effect 30 days after its adoption, on May 7, 2025. This Code Amendment was a request to update Section .1310 “Signs” of the Zoning Code and replace it with new regulations. This effort was intended to address Phase II of the comprehensive PZDC update and address con flicting signage regulations that were not consistent with First Amendment rights pertaining to freedom of speech. The approved amendment established sign regulations compat ible with the frontage standards in the new PZDC that was adopted in July 2024 and implemented content neutral signage regulations for all permissable sign types. Specific Plans that had independent sign regulations within their respective plans were not included as part of this Code Amendment.
The proposed Specific Plan Amendment (SPA -001404-2024) addresses concerns related to language in the PCSP that directly conflicts with First Amendment rights pertaining to freedom of speech and includes allowance of new types of signage, such as: painted signs, suspend ed signs, and crown signs. The Code Amendment would provide for consistent sign regulations for the Corridor with the PZDC.
Project Review:
APPLICABLE CODE SECTION:
Pursuant to the PZDC Section 1150.G.(2), the City Council may b y ordinance or resolutio n, adopt, amend, supplement, or change a specific plan; upon written recommendation from the Planning Commission.
A Specific Plan Amendment must be acted upon by the Approving Authority based upon the information provided in the submitted application, evidence presented in the Planning Division’s written report, and testimony provided during the public hearing, only after considering and clearly establishing all of the below listed findings and giving supporting reasons for each finding. The application must be denied if one or more of the below-listed findings cannot be clearly established.
1) The proposed Specific Plan, or amendment thereto, is consistent with the goals, policies, plans and exhibits of the General Plan;
2) The proposed Specific Plan, or am endment thereto, would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or general welfare of the City; 3) In the case of an application affecting specific property(ies), the proposed Specific Plan, or amendment thereto, will not adver sely affect the harmonious relationship with adjacent properties and land uses; and
4) In the case of an application affecting specific property(ies), the subject site is physically suitable, including, but not limited to, parcel size, shape, access, and ava ilability of utilities, for the request and anticipated development.
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PROPOSED AMENDMENT:
The purpose of the Pomona Corridor Specific Plan (PCSP) is to orchestrate private and public investment activities along the Garey Avenue, Holt Avenue, Mission Boulevard, and Foothill Boulevard corridors and to support and promote the type of investment that will enhance the beauty and vitality of the City’s primary comercial corridors. To accomplish this, the Specific Plan presents the community’s vision for the evolution and continued growth of these cor ridors and establishes primary means of regulati ng land use and development within the specific plan area. Because of their significant potential for change, the Garey Avenue, Holt Avenue, Mission Boulevard, and Foothill Boulevard corridors are identified as focus areas in the City of Pomona General Plan 2014 that require “specific planning and regulatory direction” to ensure the goals and policies of the General Plan are achieved . The Pomona Corridor Specific Pl an is a tool which implements the vision of the General Plan along with it’s goals and polices via development standards, prioritized strategies, and city actions.
The proposed amendment would remove Section 2.9 “Signage Regulations” from the Pomona Corridor Specific Plan and incorporate the sign regulations under Section 630. “Signs” of the Pomona Zoning Ordinance. Affected areas would include parcels abutting major arterial corridors, such as: Holt Avenue, Garey Avenue, Mission Boulevard, and Foothi ll Boulevard, as shown in Figure 1.1. “Specific Plan Area” below. This action would only apply to parcels located within the Pomona Corridor Specific Plan. Signage regulations for other specific plans are not included as part of this request.
Figure 1.1. Pomona Corridor Specific Plan – Specific Plan A
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The new sign regulations can be accessed in the Site chapter of the PZDC, which is responsible for regulating site design, parking, landscape, and other site features. It consists of a combination of regu lations that are appropriate to a variety of contexts , such as : transit-oriented center, special campuses, suburban neighborhoods, and open spaces. While regulations are located in the Site chapter of the Zoning & Development Code, permissions will be determined by the frontage module type assigned based on the Zoning District, as displayed in Figure 1.2. Permanent Signs – Allowed Sign Type, Frontage Module Permissions. Aligning sign types to frontage modules ensures consistency with the goals and policies of the General Plan by maintaining the desired relationship to the public-right-of way.
Figure 1.2. Permanent Signs – Allowed Sign Type
The proposed amendment request will assign the “General Frontage” module to all parcels located within the boundaries of the Pomona Corridor Specific Plan. This will only be applicable for signage regulations, since this is the scope of the action . General Frontage require s moderate to high build-to widths while allowing a wide range of modifications for pedestrian amenity spaces. This frontage module contains regulations that ensure a high-quality pedestrian envi ornment and provide s flexibility for a variety of ground story tenants . Both the Pomona Corridor Specific Plan and the General Frontage Module contemplate the same development goals for housing density and mix-use commercial development, and contain similar General Plan designations. Majority of the properti es within the PCSP a re composed of the following General Plan designations: Urban Neighborhood District, Neighborhood Edge, Transit Oriented District, and WorkPlace District. In comparison, the General Frontage module is applicable for the following zoning districts : Urban Ne ighborhood Districts (accomodates medium -intensite multi unit housing, office, commericial, and limited industrial uses), Activity
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Center Districts (intended for medium -large scale development within neighborhood centers catalyzed by a variety of residenti al, retail, service, and commercial buildings forms and uses in a pedestrian oriented enviornment and mix -use is strongly encouraged), Workplace District and Transit Oriented Districts ( contains the most active and walkable districts in the city and encourages a mix of residential and commercial uses). The Zoning & Development Code’s zoning districts are tailored to implement the designations and place types established in the General Plan. Consistent land use designations with both the Pomona Corrido r Specific Plan and the General Frontage module will ensure that the sign regulations are consistent with the General Plan, along with being compatiable with the use types for the area.
GENERAL PLAN CONFORMANCE:
The land use and community design chapters of the General Plan place high priority on building form and places focus on design that supports public activity and strengthens safety. The reiterated goals and policies in the General Plan promote the efficient use of land that encourage walking, bicycling and transit use across all place types. To accomplish this the General Plan discusses moving away from “exclusively auto -oriented shopping and toward open-air, amenity driven formats that have both daytime and nighttime activity and are clustered at major crossroads”. Additionally, the community design chapter emphasizes the creation of more walkable & accessible street environments, strives to improve pedestrian safety, and improve the livability and cultural life of the community through physical design considerations.
To implement the vision set by the General Plan, the sign regulations in the PZDC prohibits the erection of new auto-oriented signs such as animated signs, digital signs, bunting signs, and mobile signage and incorporates new signag e types such as painted signs, crown signs, and marquee signs. Additionally, the new signage regulations remove all language pertaining to signage content and safeguards life, health, property and public welfare by regulating the design, quality of materia ls, construction, illumination, location, and maintenance of signs. Despite prohibiting the installtion or erection of new auto -oriented signs in the PZDC sign regulations, the Pomona Corridor Specific Plan still allows for drive -thrus and gas stations within certain segments with the approval of a Conditional Use Permit. While no new auto -oriented signage can be proposed with this amendment, the existing signage for auto -oriented uses (such as the gas stations and drive -thrus) will still be able to be updated and maintained, per Section 630.D.(5) “Sign Installtion and Maintenance”. Monument signs are still permitted under General Frontage to accommodate any new gas stations with the PCSP area.
Community Input and Noticing:
Public Legal Noticing
A copy of the public hearing notice was published in the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin on Friday, June 27, 2025. As of the date of this report, Staff has not received any public comment.
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Tribal Consultation
In accordance with Senate Bill 18 (Burton 2004) (Government Code §6532.3(a)(1)) Planning Division staff contacted the California Native American Heritage Commission for a list of Tribes with ancestral lands in Pomona and offered consultation on the proposed specific plan amendment . A formal notification of the Specific Plan Amendment was sent on October 23, 2024 via certified mail. None of the California Native American Tribes requested consultation regarding the proposed amendment.
Environmental Review:
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires analysis of agency approvals of discretionary “projects.” A “project,” under CEQA, is defined as “the whole of an action, which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment” (State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378). The proposed project is considered a “project” under CEQA.
In 2014, the City of Pomona adopted a Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) associated with the discretionary project, which analyzed the environmental impacts of the City of Pomona’s General Plan Update (GPU), Corridors Specific Plan, Active Transportation Plan, and Green Plan. In conjunction with the certification of the GPU and PCSP EIR, a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) was adopted. The proposed project site was previously studied under this Certified Final EIR.
In compliance with Section 15061(b)(3), the proposed project is covered by the general rule exemption which exempts activities tha t can be seen with certainty to have no possibility for causing a significant effect on the environment. The project may be considered for the general rule exemption in that the proposed project only includes the amendment of text of an adopted document previously studied in the 2014 Pomona GPU Final EIR. The proposed project described above hereby meets the guidelines. Therefore, no further environmental review is required.
Conclusion:
The proposed Specific Plan Amendment furthers the goals & policies in the general plan and will not result in any negative impacts to the surrounding neighborhoods. Therefore, staff recommends that Planning Commission move to approve PC Resolution No. 25-010 and recommend approval to City Council of Specific Plan Amendmen t SPA- 001401-2024, subject to conditions.
Next Steps:
Upon Planning Commission approval of Staff’s recommendation, the Specific Plan Amendment will be brought forward to the City Council for a first reading, tentatively scheduled for Monday, September 8, 2025, with an anticipated second reading on Monday, September 22, 2025.
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Attachments:
1. Planning Commission Resolution No. 25-010
2. PZDC Section 630. “Signs”
3. Specific Plan Area Map
4. Proof of Legal Public Noticing
PC RESOLUTION NO. 25-010
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
POMONA, CALIFORNIA , RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL
APPROVAL OF A SPECIFIC PLAN AM ENDMENT ( SPA-001401-2024)
AMENDING THE POMONA CORRIDORS SPECIFIC PLAN TO
REQUIRE ALL SIGNS IN THE POMONA CORRIDORS SPECIFIC PLAN
AREA TO COMPLY WITH THE SIGN REGULATIONS OUTLINED IN
THE POMONA ZONING AND DEVELOPMENT CODE SECTION .630.
“SIGNS”.
WHEREAS, the City of Pomona has duly initiated Specific Plan Amendment (SPA - 001401-2024), a request to amend Pomona Corridor Specific Plan (PCSP) Section 2.9 “Sign Regulations” to require all signs in the PCSP area to comply with the sign regulations outlined in the Pomona Zoning and Development Code Section .630. “Signs”;
WHEREAS, on April 7, 2025, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 4357, approving a city -initiated, Zoning Code Amendment ( CODE-001403-2024) amending the Zoning and Development Code to updating the Sign Regulations, Section .630;
WHEREAS, Planning Division staff has contacted the California Native American Heritage Commission and offered consultation on the proposed Specific Plan Amendment in accordance with Senate Bill 18 (Burton 2004);
WHEREAS, none of the of California Native American Tribes requested consultation regarding the proposed Specific Plan Amendment;
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Pomona, at its regularly scheduled public meeting on July 9, 2025, conducted a public hearing to consider Specific Plan Amendment (SPA 001401-2024);
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of Pomona as follows:
SECTION 1. The Planning Commission hereby finds that the foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein as substantive findings of this Resolution.
SECTION 2. The Planning Commission, exercising independent judgment, finds that the project will not have an adv erse impact on the environment pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3)the proposed project described above hereby meets the guidelines for the general rule exemption which exempts activities that can be seen with certainty to have no possibility for causing a significant effect on the environment;
SECTION 3. In accordance with Section 1150.G.(2) of the Pomona Zoning and Development Code , the Planning Commission must make findings in order to recommend approval of Specific Plan Amendment (SPA-001401-2024). Based on consideration of the whole PC Resolution No. 25-010
SPA-001401-2024
Pomona Corridors Specific Plan - Signs
record before it, including but not limited to, the staff report, public testimony received at the public hearing on this matter, and evidence made part of the public record, the Planning Commission hereby finds as follows:
1) The proposed Specific Plan, or amendment thereto , is consistent with the goals, policies, plans and exhibits of the General Plan;
The land use and community design chapters of the General Plan place high priority on building form and places focus on design that supports public activity and strengthens safety. The reiterated goals and policies in the General Plan promote the efficient use of land that encourage walking, bicycling and transit use across all place types. To accomplish this the General Plan discusses moving away from “exclusively auto -oriented shopping and toward open -air, amenity driven formats that have both daytime and nighttime activity and are clustered at major crossroads”.
Additionally, the community design chapter emphasizes the creation of more walkable & accessible street environments, strives to improve pedestrian safety, and improve the livability and cultural life of the community through physical design considerations.
To implement the vision set by the General Plan, the new sign regulations prohibits the erection of new auto-oriented signs such as animated signs, digital signs, bunting signs, and mobile signage.
The Specific Plan Amendment incorporates new signage types and regulations that enhance the pedestrian experience and supports public activity. Furthermore, the new signage regulations remove all language pertaining to signage content and safeguards life, health, property and public welfare by regulating the design, quality of materials, construction, illumination, location, and maintenance of signs.
2) The proposed Specific Plan, or amendment thereto, would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or general welfare of the City;
The proposed Specific Plan Amendment would not be detrimental to the public interest health, safety, convenience, or general welfare of the City as it will enable property owners to establish signage under new standards that implement the vision set by the General Plan. 3) In the case of an application affecting specific property(ies), the proposed Specific Plan, or amendment thereto, will not adversely affect the harmonious relationship with adjacent properties and land uses; and
The proposed Specific Plan Amendment is not property specific and will be executed within the entirety of the Specific Plan Area. The proposed Specific Plan Amendment will not adversely affect the harmonious relationship between properties.
PC Resolution No. 25-010
SPA-001401-2024
Pomona Corridors Specific Plan - Signs
4) In the case of an application affecting specific property(ies), the subject site is physically suitable, including, but not limited to, parcel size, shape, access, and availability of utilities, for the request and anticipated development.
The proposed Specific Plan Amendment is not property specific and will be executed within the entirety of the Specific Plan Area. The proposed Specific Plan Amendment sign standards are physically suitable with the existing Specific Plan regulations.
SECTION 3. Based on consideration of the whole record before it, including but not limited to, the staff report, public testimony received at the public hearing on this matter, and evidence made part of the public record, the Planning Commission hereby finds that the proposed Specific Plan Amendment is in the public interest and in the interest of the furtherance of the public health, safety, and welfare and is, as a matter of law, consistent with the Pomona General Plan pursuant to Government Code Section 65852.2(a)(1)(c).
SECTION 4. The Planning Commission of the City of Pomona hereby recommends the City Council approve Specific Plan Amendment (SPA-001401-2024).
SECTION 5. The Secretary shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution and forward the original to the City Clerk.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 9TH DAY OF JULY, 2025
MARCOS MOLINA
PLANNING COMMISSION CHAIRPERSON
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
GEOFFERY STARNS MARCO A. MARTINEZ
PLANNING COMMISSION SECRETARY ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY
PC Resolution No. 25-010
SPA-001401-2024
Pomona Corridors Specific Plan - Signs
STATE OF CALIFORNIA)
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES) ss.
CITY OF POMONA)
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Pursuant to Resolution No. 76-258 of the City of Pomona, the time in which judicial review of this action must be sought is governed by California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.6.
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Zoning & Development Code | Pomona, California Adopted July 1, 2024 Part 6 | Site General
Sec. 630. Signs
630.a. General
1. Purpose and Intent
The regulations set forth in this Section contain the primary tools for implementing the sign policies, standards, and regulations of the City pursuant to the provisions of the State Outdoor Advertising Act (BPC Section 5200 et seq.), and other applicable state and local requirements, and prescribe standards for the type, placement, size, number, height, and illumination of signs in order to achieve the following purposes:
a. To promote orderly display of signs to provide reasonable protection to the visual environment of the City;
b. To enhance the City's ability to attract economic development; and c. To safeguard life, health, property and public welfare by regulating the design, quality of materials, construction, illumination, location, and maintenance of signs.
2. Applicability
All signs erected, installed, structurally altered, or otherwise modified after the effective date of this Code, except for signs within a specific plan, which are regulated by a specific plan. Nonconforming signs are subject to the provisions of Sec. 11100.L.2. (Sign Exceptions).
3. Sign Permits
Unless specifically exempted in Sec. 630.B. (Signs Not Requiring a Permit), a Sign Permit must be obtained prior to erection, installation, display, structural alteration, or change of any sign pursuant to Sec. 1170.C. (Ministerial Permit). Building and electrical permits must also be obtained, where required by the Uniform Building Code and National Electrical Code. 630.B. Signs Not Requiring a Permit
Signs that do not require a permit are not considered in determining the allowable number or size of signs on a lot. A permit is not required for the following types of signs, provided all applicable provisions of this Section are met.
1. Official Notices
Any sign, posting, notice or other indication used exclusively to display official notices, notices of any court or public office, or posted by a public officer in the performance of a public duty, or required by a public entity in carrying out its responsibility to protect the public health, safety or welfare, or otherwise required by law.
2. Street and Traffic Control Signs
Official street or traffic signs erected by a governmental agency, including signs required by law, directional signs, informational signs, street name signs, traffic control signs, public utility signs, railroad crossing signs, or other emergency warning signs. 6-73
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3. Signs Not Visible
Any sign internal to a site not visible from the public right-of-way or neighboring property. This does not include signs for drive-through facilities, as defined in Sec. 11100.K.1.b.
4. Flags
Any loose fabric or membrane secured to a pole or rod, which flutters and moves with air or wind movement. Freestanding flag poles are not regulated under this Section, and require a building permit.
Flags must meet the following standards:
a. A maximum of 3 flags are permitted per lot; and
b. The flag area cannot exceed 1.5 times the height of the pole, or at least a 15 square foot flag, whichever is greater. For example, a 40-foot tall flag pole yields a maximum 60 square foot flag.
5. Sidewalk Signs
Any sign placed on a sidewalk that is movable, wholly independent of a building for support, and not permanently secured or attached to the ground. Includes a-frame signs, sandwich board signs, and signs on wheels.
Sidewalk signs must meet the following standards:
a. The sign cannot exceed 6 square feet in area, 3 feet in height and 2 feet width; b. The sign must be placed along a building facade with an entrance to a tenant space; c. The sign cannot be placed more than 12 feet from the building facade; d. One sidewalk sign is permitted for each street facing entrance, and no more than one may be placed per business on the same street face;
e. The sign cannot be illuminated;
f. The sign must be removed and placed indoors at the close of each business day; and g. The sign must not impair the ability of pedestrians to use the sidewalk, with a minimum of 6 feet of clear distance of sidewalk at all times.
6. Small Signs
Any sign with a sign area of 6 square feet or less.
Small signs must meet the following standards in order to be considered exempt:
a. Maximum individual sign area of 6 square feet.
b. Maximum number of small signs on a lot is unrestricted. c. Cannot be internally or externally illuminated.
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7. Historic Building Plaque
A commemorative or identification plaque to identify designated historic properties (local, state, or national level) which are constructed of bronze or other nonflammable material.
8. Search Lights and Laser Displays
a. Special Frontage Modules
In a zoning district with a Special Frontage Module, search lights and laser displays are allowed and must meet the following standards.
1. Such devices must be focused away from ground level areas, residential areas, pedestrian areas, and vehicular traffic areas.
2. The level of illumination must not cause any unnecessary direct or reflected glare onto surrounding neighborhoods.
b. All Other Frontage Modules
In a zoning district without a Special Frontage Module, search lights and laser displays are not allowed.
630.C. Prohibited Signs
The following signs and devices are prohibited. Any sign type not listed in this Sec. 630. (Signs) is considered prohibited.
1. Abandoned Signs
Any sign remaining in place or not maintained for a period of 90 days which no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, product or service available on the business premise where the sign is located.
2. Aerial Roof Signs
Any sign that is mounted, attached, affixed, or painted on the surface of a roof that is visible from the air or an elevation vantage point higher than the roof.
3. Aerial Signs
Any sign or device that is either floating or flying in the air but is secured to a building or to the ground by strings or cables. A blimp is considered an aerial sign.
4. Animated Signs
Any sign which uses movement or changes of lighting to depict action or create a special effect or scene.
5. Balloons
Any inflatable airtight bag that, when in multiple numbers can be strung together and displayed to attract attention to a business location. A balloon is not considered an inflatable sign. 6-75
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6. Bunting
Any decoration made out of fabric, synthetic material, sheet metal, or any thin pliable material that is securely attached to at least two ends of a rigid frame attached to a pole or projecting from a building.
7. Can Signs (Box Signs)
Any sign on the outside face of a metal box with or without internal illumination.
8. Digital Signs
Any electronic sign that displays video or multimedia content or text.
9. Fence Signs
Any sign attached to or painted onto a freestanding fence.
A sign attached to or painted onto a freestanding wall is considered a monument sign and is subject to the standards of Sec. 630.F.10. (Monument Sign).
10. Inflatable Signs
Any form of inflatable device that is displayed, printed or painted on the surface of an inflatable background. A balloon is not considered an inflatable sign.
11. Mobile Signs
Any sign mounted, attached, affixed, or painted upon any surface of a motor vehicle, trailer, or similar conveyance parked on public or private property. This includes mobile signs that are digital or animated.
12. Off-Site Advertising Signs (Billboards)
Any sign structure or billboard, whether freestanding or mounted on an existing building, built for the purpose of advertising an establishment, product or service which is not available on the property upon which the sign is located at the time the sign structure was erected. a. Proposition "L"
As approved in a special municipal election held on November 2, 1993 (Proposition "L"), and which cannot be modified without a vote of the people:
1. No new or structurally altered off-site billboards will be permitted within the City of Pomona.
In technical words conveying the same meaning, off-site advertising signs must not be constructed, relocated, or structurally altered in any zoning district.
2. Noncommercial advertising by the property owner or by another with their consent is permitted on any advertising sign for on-site advertising, whether the message concerns activity at the property or not.
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13. Pennants
Any device made of flexible materials, such as cloth, paper or plastic, which may or may not contain copy, and designed to be attached securely to a pole or post.
14. Pole Signs
Any freestanding sign that is wholly independent of a building for support, permanently affixed to the ground using one or more poles or posts.
15. Unofficial Traffic Signs
Any sign which simulates in color, size or design, any traffic control sign or signal, or which make use of words, symbols or characters in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
16. Snipe Signs
Any sign or poster that is installed within public or private property on structures such as lampposts, traffic signs, street signs, building walls, fences, and similar structures. 630.D. General Signs Requirements
1. Building and Electrical Code Compliance
The structural components of a sign (including, without limitation, lighting fixtures) must be constructed, installed and maintained in accordance with the requirements of the current Uniform Building Code and National Electrical Code.
2. Setbacks and Encroachments
a. Building setback requirements, as defined in Sec. 370.C. (Building Setbacks), do not apply to signs.
b. Any awning, canopy, marquee, and projecting signs may encroach (subject to an encroachment permit) up to 42 inches over a public right-of-way provided that:
1. The sign does not encroach within a vertical plane measured 2 feet from the back of the curb; and
2. The bottom edge of the sign maintains a clearance of at least 8 feet from the finish grade level below the sign.
3. Illumination
a. Where exposed lamps are used to illuminate signs, gooseneck reflectors and lights must be provided with proper lenses and guards to concentrate illumination on the area of the sign to prevent glare on the street or adjacent property.
b. Neon lighting must not exceed 30 milliamps. All other types of sign illumination are subject to the standards of Sec. 640.A. (Outdoor Lighting).
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4. Display of Noncommercial Message
Any sign authorized in this Section may display a noncommercial message in lieu of other text.
5. Sign Installation and Maintenance
All signs must be installed and maintained in proper working order at all times and meet the following provisions for maintenance.
a. The display surfaces of all signs must be kept clean and legible at all times. b. All non-functioning bulbs or damaged sign faces or panels must be replaced or repaired within 30 days.
c. All sign copy must be maintained securely on the sign face or panel and all missing copy must be replaced within 30 days.
d. Sign structures, frameworks, and poles must be structurally sound. e. The rear of any sign face or cabinet visible to the public must be provided with a flat-surfaced cover to obscure structural elements from public view.
f. Following the removal of any signage and/or prior to the installation of any signage, all visual trace of the previous sign must be removed, including any residue. Where discoloration occurs upon removal or exists prior to installation, all surfaces must be painted to match the existing color of the structure.
6. Sign Removal
a. The following signs will be removed immediately by the property owner:
1. Nonconforming signs changed or altered in any way beyond maintenance and repair other than change of copy as defined in Sec. 11100.X. (Nonconforming Signs).
2. Prohibited signs as defined in Sec. 630.C. (Prohibited Signs). b. Where a sign is removed, all visual trace of the previous sign must be removed, including any residue. Where discoloration occurs upon removal all surfaces must be painted to match the existing color of the structure.
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Zoning & Development Code | Pomona, California Adopted July 1, 2024 Part 6 | Site Large Temporary Signs
630.E. Large Temporary Signs
Any sign with an area greater than 10 square feet which is not designed or intended to be placed permanently.
Large temporary signs must meet the following standards.
1. Large temporary signs must be rectangular in shape.
2. Large temporary signs are not permitted in zoning districts with a Neighborhood Yard frontage module, except for an assembly use or with a RX1 use module.
3. Large temporary signs must not exceed 45 square feet.
4. One large temporary sign is permitted per building and/or tenant street frontage at any time.
5. Large temporary signs may be used for a period not exceeding 30 consecutive days, up to 2 times per any 12-month period. Additional posting time may be allowed by the Zoning Administrator, provided a temporary activity on the site is continuing or an emergency circumstance warrants the additional sign duration for a public purpose.
6. Materials used for temporary signs must be durable and capable of withstanding the weather.
7. Temporary signs must be attached to a building or structure. 6-79
Pomona, California | Zoning & Development CodeAdopted July 1, 2024 Part 6 | SitePermanent Signs
630.F. Permanent Signs
1. Frontage Module Permissions
The following signs are allowed by frontage module.
Sign Type
Frontage Module
Standards
Neighborhood Yard
Multi-Unit
General
Shopfront
Special
Building Signs
Awning -- ■ ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.2.a. Awning Sign
Canopy -- ■ ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.2.b. Canopy Sign
Painted -- ■ ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.2.c. Painted Sign
Projecting -- ■ ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.2.d. Projecting Sign
Roof -- ■ ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.2.e. Roof Sign
Wall -- ■ ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.2.f. Wall Sign
Window -- ■ ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.2.g. Window Sign
Freestanding Signs
Monument -- ■ ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.3.a. Monument Sign
Suspended ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.3.b. Suspended Sign
Special Signs
Crown -- ■ ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.4.a. Crown Sign
Marquee -- -- ■ ■ ■ Sec. 630.F.4.b. Marquee Sign
■ = Sign type allowed -- = Sign type not allowed
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Zoning & Development Code | Pomona, California Adopted July 1, 2024 Part 6 | Site Permanent Signs
2. Building Signs
Any permanent on-site sign attached to or painted on a primary or accessory building or structure.
Building signs include awning, canopy, painted, projecting, roof, wall, and window sign types.
For the purposes of this Code, crown and marquee signs are considered special signs as defined in Sec. 630.F.2.C. (Special Signs).
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Pomona, California | Zoning & Development CodeAdopted July 1, 2024 Permanent Signs Part 6 | Site
a. Awning Sign
C
1. DEFINITION
A building sign where graphics or symbols are painted,
printed, sewn, or otherwise adhered to the material of
an awning as an integrated part of the awning itself.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. Any awning containing a sign must be located over
ground-story doors or windows.
ii. Any awning containing a sign must not extend
above the height of the bottom sill of any second
story window of the building facade to which it is
attached.
iii. Any awning containing a sign must not be internally illuminated.
iv. Any awning containing a sign may be externally
illuminated pursuant to Sec. 630.D.3. (Illumination).
3. NUMBER OF SIGNS
Maximum of 1 per awning.
4. TOTAL SIGN AREA
Combined area of all
building signs (max)
1.5 SF per linear foot of
building frontage or at
least 32 SF, whichever
is greater
5. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A Area (max) 20 SF
B Sign display height (max) 1'
C Width (max) 60% of the awning
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Zoning & Development Code | Pomona, California Adopted July 1, 2024 Permanent SignsPart 6 | Site
b. Canopy Sign
1. DEFINITION
A building sign attached to a canopy with a display
surface parallel to the plane of the building facade.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. Any canopy containing a sign must be located over
ground-story doors or windows.
ii. Any canopy containing a sign must not extend
above the height of the bottom sill of any second
story window of the building facade to which it is
attached.
iii. Any canopy sign may be externally or internally
illuminated in accordance with Sec. 630.D.3.
(Illumination).
3. NUMBER OF SIGNS
Maximum of 1 per canopy.
4. TOTAL SIGN AREA
Combined area of all
building signs (max)
1 SF per linear foot of
building frontage or at
least 32 SF, whichever
is greater
5. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A Area (max)
1 SF per linear foot
of canopy, or at least
20 SF, whichever is
greater
B Height (max) 3'
Clear height above
parking area or driveway
(min)
14'
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Pomona, California | Zoning & Development CodeAdopted July 1, 2024 Permanent Signs Part 6 | Site
c. Painted Sign
1. DEFINITION
A building sign painted on the exterior wall of a building or structure.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. Any painted sign must be professionally executed by
a licensed commercial sign painter.
ii. Any painted signs located within a mural that
is located on public property, within a public
easement, or which received funding from the City
must be approved by the Cultural Arts Commission.
iii. If a painted sign is located within a mural, only areas including text count toward the sign area.
iv. Any painted sign may be externally illuminated in
accordance with Sec. 630.D.3. (Illumination).
3. NUMBER OF SIGNS
Maximum of 1 per lot or 30’ of building frontage,
whichever is greater.
4. TOTAL SIGN AREA
Combined area of all
building signs (max)
1.5 SF per linear foot of
building frontage or at
least 32 SF, whichever
is greater
5. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A Area (max)
Ground story 50 SF
Upper story 100 SF
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Zoning & Development Code | Pomona, California Adopted July 1, 2024 Permanent SignsPart 6 | Site
d. Projecting Sign
1. DEFINITION
A building sign attached approximately perpendicular
to the exterior wall of a building or structure, typically extending 12 inches or more from the wall.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. A projecting sign must be at least 15 feet from any
other projecting sign.
ii. A projecting sign must not extend above the top of
the building roof line or parapet.
iii. Any projecting sign may be externally or internally illuminated in accordance with Sec. 630.D.3.
(Illumination).
3. NUMBER OF SIGNS
Maximum of 1 per building entrance.
4. TOTAL SIGN AREA
Combined area of all
building signs (max)
1.5 SF per linear foot of
building frontage or at
least 32 SF, whichever
is greater
5. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A Area (max) 30 SF
B Projection width (max) 3.5
c Clear height above
parking area or driveway 14'
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Pomona, California | Zoning & Development CodeAdopted July 1, 2024 Permanent Signs Part 6 | Site
e. Roof Sign
1. DEFINITION
A building sign erected on a roof of a building consisting of channel letters, graphic segments, open lighting
elements, or other open forms affixed to a non-solid
panel sign support structure.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. Any roof sign must be located on the roof of a
building.
ii. Any roof sign must be at least 15 feet from any other roof sign.
iii. The plane of the roof sign face must be
approximately parallel to the face of the building.
iv. The roof sign must consist of open channel lettering or graphic segments. Box and cabinet signs are not
allowed.
v. Any roof sign may be externally illuminated in
accordance with Sec. 630.D.3. (Illumination).
3. TOTAL SIGN AREA
Combined area of all
building signs (max)
1.5 SF per linear foot of
building frontage or at
least 32 SF, whichever
is greater
4. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A Area (max) 80 SF
B Height (max) 3'
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Zoning & Development Code | Pomona, California Adopted July 1, 2024 Permanent SignsPart 6 | Site
f. Wall Sign
1. DEFINITION
A building sign attached flat and parallel to the exterior wall of a building or structure, extending no more than 12 inches from the wall.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. Any wall sign must not extend above the top of the
building roof line or parapet.
ii. Any wall sign must be located below the window
sills of the second story on a multi-story building.
iii. Any wall sign must only be located on facades that include a customer entrance or display window.
iv. Any wall sign must not cover, cross, or hide any
building balcony, column, belt course, or other
decorative architectural feature.
v. Any wall sign may be externally or internally
illuminated in accordance with Sec. 630.D.3.
(Illumination).
3. NUMBER OF SIGNS
Maximum of 1 per lot or 30’ of building frontage,
whichever is greater.
4. TOTAL SIGN AREA
Combined area of all
building signs (max)
1.5 SF per linear foot of
building frontage or at
least 32 SF, whichever
is greater
5. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A Area (max) 50 SF
b Projection width (max) 1'
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Pomona, California | Zoning & Development CodeAdopted July 1, 2024 Permanent Signs Part 6 | Site
g. Window Sign
1. DEFINITION
A building sign which is painted on, applied to, attached to, or projected upon the glass area of a building facade, including doors, or located within 12 inches of the
interior of a window.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. Any window sign must only be displayed in ground
floor windows.
ii. No combination of temporary and permanent
window signs may cover more than 50% of any
window panel.
3. NUMBER OF SIGNS
Maximum of 2 per lot or per 30’ of building frontage,
whichever is greater.
4. TOTAL SIGN AREA
Combined area of all
building signs (max)
1.5 SF per linear foot of
building frontage or at
least 32 SF, whichever
is greater
5. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A
Area per sign with an
opaque background
(max)
10 SF
Area per sign with no
background (max) None
Area per internally
illuminated or exposed
neon sign (max)
4 SF
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Zoning & Development Code | Pomona, California Adopted July 1, 2024 Part 6 | Site Permanent Signs
3. Freestanding Signs
Any permanent on-site sign placed on a site but is not attached to or painted onto a primary or accessory building or structure. Freestanding signs include monument and suspended sign types. 6-89
Pomona, California | Zoning & Development CodeAdopted July 1, 2024 Permanent Signs Part 6 | Site
a. Monument Sign
1. DEFINITION
A freestanding sign which has a solid base and is
attached to the ground along its entire length.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. Any monument sign structure must be incidental to
the size of the monument sign itself.
ii. Any monument sign must not encroach upon any
public right-of-way or sidewalk.
iii. Any monument sign must be set back a minimum of
3 feet from the public right-of-way.
iv. Any monument sign must be set back a minimum of
10 feet from a driveway entrance.
v. Any monument sign must not be placed within 10
feet of a common lot line.
vi. Any monument sign must be at least 100 feet from
any other monument sign.
vii. All letters included in any monument sign must have a minimum height of 9 inches.
viii. Any monument sign may be illuminated with a
shielded spotlight located at the base of the sign in
accordance with Sec. 630.D.3. (Illumination).
3. NUMBER OF SIGNS
Number of monument signs
(max) 1 per lot
Combined number of
freestanding signs (max) 1 per street frontage
4. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A Area (max) 32 SF
B Width (max) 6'
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Zoning & Development Code | Pomona, California Adopted July 1, 2024 Permanent SignsPart 6 | Site
b. Suspended Sign
1. DEFINITION
A freestanding sign comprised of a vertical pole, a
horizontal decorative sign support, and a suspended
sign face.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. Any suspended sign must not encroach upon any
public right-of-way or sidewalk.
ii. Any suspended sign may be illuminated with a
shielded spotlight located at the base of the sign in
accordance with Sec. 630.D.3. (Illumination).
3. NUMBER OF SIGNS
Combined number of
freestanding signs (max) 1 per street frontage
4. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A Area (max) 12 SF
B Height (max) 8'
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Pomona, California | Zoning & Development CodeAdopted July 1, 2024 Part 6 | SitePermanent Signs
4. Special Signs
Special signs include crown and marquee sign types.
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Zoning & Development Code | Pomona, California Adopted July 1, 2024 Permanent SignsPart 6 | Site
a. Crown Sign
a
1. DEFINITION
A building sign painted on, or attached flat and parallel to, the exterior wall of a building or structure that is located at the top of a building facade. The display
surface of which does not extend more than 2 feet from
the outside wall of the building or structure.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. Any crown sign must be located on the upper-most
story of a building with at least 3 stories.
ii. Any crown sign must be hand-painted, consist of
channel letters, or have lettering and details which
extend no more than 2 inches from the surface of
the building facade.
iii. Any crown sign may be externally or internally
illuminated in accordance with Sec. 630.D.3.
(Illumination).
3. NUMBER OF SIGNS
Maximum of 2 per lot and 1 per building facade
4. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A Area (max)
3-4 stories 200 SF
5+ stories 350 SF
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Pomona, California | Zoning & Development CodeAdopted July 1, 2024 Permanent Signs Part 6 | Site
b. Marquee Sign
1. DEFINITION
A building sign attached to a marquee, including a
reader-board.
2. GENERAL STANDARDS
i. Any marquee sign must not extend above or below
the marquee.
ii. Any marquee sign must not be attached to any
portion of the marquee except on the periphery.
iii. Any marquee sign may be internally illuminated in
accordance with Sec. 630.D.3. (Illumination).
3. TOTAL SIGN AREA
Combined area of all special
signs (max)
1.5 SF per linear foot of
building frontage or at
least 32 SF, whichever
is greater
4. INDIVIDUAL SIGN DIMENSIONS
A Area, all faces (max) 60 SF
B Height above bottom of
marquee (max) 5'
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Zoning & Development Code | Pomona, California Adopted July 1, 2024 Part 6 | Site Measurement
630.G. Measurement
1. Sign Area
a. Per linear foot of building frontage is calculated by measuring the total linear feet of all street- facing building facades. For the measurement of street-facing building facade, see Sec. 1200.D.2. (Street Lot Line-Facing Facades).
Street Frontage
Street
Building Frontage
BUILDING
=x Total Sign
Area
(square feet)
Building Frontage
(linear feet)
Applicable
Square Feet
Allowance
(square feet)
FORMULA
b. For building signs consisting of freestanding letters or logos, sign area is calculated as the total area of the rectangle, circle or square that fully encloses the letters or images as shown below.
Images, logos or text greater than 12 inches apart are calculated as separate signs for the purposes of calculating individual sign area.
Two Signs
Coffee Shop
More than 12”
One Sign
Coffee Shop
12“ or less
c. For signs on a background, the entire area of the background is calculated as sign area, including any material or color forming the sign face and the background used to differentiate the sign from the structure on which it is mounted. Includes the face of the structure that the message is affixed to, not including any supports, bracing or street number.
Monument Monument
SignSign
Wall SignWall Sign
d. For a sign that is 2-sided, back-to-back or V-type, only the area of the largest sign face is calculated as part of the sign area. If the sign face angle on a V-type sign is more than a 60 degrees, sign area is calculated by adding together the area of all sign faces. 6-95
Pomona, California | Zoning & Development CodeAdopted July 1, 2024 Part 6 | SiteRelief
2. Sign Height
The height of a freestanding sign is measured from the highest point of the sign or supporting structure to the top of the nearest sidewalk or crown of the road when no sidewalk exists.
Height
Sidewalk
630.H. Relief
A deviation from a sign standard may be allowed as a variance in accordance with Sec. 1160.F. Variance.
PROJECT
LOCATION MAP
Entirety if the PCSP
area within the City of
Pomona
Project: The proposed
project is a specific plan
amendment to the
Pomona Corridor
Specific Plan (PCSP)
requesting to amend
Section 2.9 “Sign
Regulations”. The
proposed amendment
would remove all sign
regulations outlined in
Section 2.9 of the PCSP
and require all signs in
the PCSP area to
comply with the sign
regulations outlined in
the Pomona Zoning and
Development Code
Section .630. “Signs”.