CITY OF RIVERSIDE
Sign
Ordinance
Guide
Signage
Field Guide
CITY OF RIVERSIDE
RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE3
Table of
Contents
5 Introduction
6 Minimum Criteria for Sign Design
7 Prohibited Signs
9 Calculating Sign Area
11 Illumination
13 Sign Typologies
15 Awning and Canopy Signs
19 Window Signs
23 Monument Signs
31 Blade Signs
35 Wall Signs
39 Pylon Signs
43 Changeable Copy Signs
47 Under-canopy Shingle Signs
51 Freeway-oriented Signs
53 Vehicle Fuel Stations
55 Temporary Signs
57 Permit Process
61 Glossary
RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE
5 Introduction
Welcome to Riverside’s Sign Guide!
In a city as vibrant and diverse as
ours, signs play an important role.
They help people find their way, share
information, and express creativity.
ARCHITECTURAL COMPATIBILITY
Signs should look like they belong on the building.
That means matching the building’s style, colors,
and scale, and not covering windows or important
architectural features. Signs shouldn’t spill over
natural edges or block upper floors.
Support
clear, effective
communication
for residents,
businesses,
and visitors—
while keeping
the city free of
visual clutter
that detracts
from Riverside’s
character.
Promote
public safety
by ensuring signs
are built, placed,
and maintained
to meet visibility
and safety
standards,
reducing hazards
and distractions
for pedestrians
and drivers.
Protect
everyone’s
right to free
expression
by allowing
signage that
respects
constitutional
free speech
principles.
Encourage
well-designed
signs that fit the
look and feel of
the community
and help protect
the quality
and value of
surrounding
properties.
Sign Ordinance Goals
RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE5
But when signs are installed without thoughtful design or upkeep, they can create clutter, distract drivers and pedestrians, and take away from the character that makes Riverside special.
That’s why the City has established clear, common-sense guidelines for how signs should be designed, placed, and maintained. These regulations help keep our neighborhoods and business districts looking their best, support a safe and comfortable experience for everyone, and ensure that signage continues to be a meaningful way for people to share their messages.
Minimum Criteria for Sign Design
CONSISTENCY WITH AREA CHARACTER
Signs should fit the overall look and feel of the
district they’re in. Using similar materials or design
themes helps keep things cohesive. If a sign is near
homes, it should be designed and placed in a way
that minimizes its impact on nearby residents.
LEGIBILITY
Sign text and symbols should be sized so people
can read them from the distance and speed they’re
traveling—smaller for pedestrians, larger for drivers.
Colors should contrast clearly with the background
to make the sign easy to read day or night.
READABILITY
The message on the sign should be clear and
easy to understand at a glance. Keep it simple,
straightforward, and free of confusion.
VISIBILITY
A sign should stand out enough from its
surroundings that people can quickly notice
it and get the information they need.
RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE 6
Think of this guide as
a friendly companion to help
you understand the basics of
the sign ordinance. To view the
complete sign ordinance, visit:
RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE7
Advertising Statuary
Three-dimensional free
standing structures that
identify, advertise, or
otherwise direct attention
to a product or business
are not allowed.
Animated and
Moving Signs
Signs that blink, move,
or give the appearance
of movement are generally
not allowed.
Banners, Balloons,
Streamers, & Pennants
Attention-grabbing banners,
balloons, and similar items
are not allowed except for
approved temporary use.
Bench Signs
Advertising on benches
or bus stops is restricted
to public transportation
agencies.
Commercial
Mascots
People holding or wearing
signs to advertise a
business are not allowed.
Mobile Signs
Vehicles used mainly
to display ads are not
permitted.
Off-premises Advertising
(Billboards)
Billboards advertising
businesses or services not
located on the property are
not allowed.
Pole Signs
Pole signs are not allowed
unless a specific plan or
policy permits them.
Portable Signs
Portable or movable signs
are not allowed unless
specifically permitted.
Paper Signs
and Placards
Paper signs meant to
attract attention are not
allowed unless they meet
temporary sign rules
(see page 55).
Prohibited Sign Types
RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE 8
Roof Signs
Signs placed on rooftops
are not allowed except in
limited circumstances for
certain historic properties.
Signs Creating
Traffic Hazards
Signs that block views,
confuse drivers, or sit too
close to traffic features are
not allowed.
Signs That Produce
Emissions or Noise
Signs that release smoke,
sounds, or particles are not
allowed.
Signs for Prohibited
or Unpermitted Uses
Signs promoting
businesses that aren’t
allowed or haven’t been
approved are not permitted.
Signs on Public Property
Signs cannot be placed
in the public right-of-way
unless approved through an
encroachment permit.
Cabinet or Panel Signs
New cabinet or panel signs
are not allowed. Existing
cabinet signs may continue
to be used and maintained
subject to Section
19.620.130 of the Riverside
Municipal Code.
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Calculating Sign Area
Measuring Frontage
Sign area is measured based on the portion of the sign that actually displays words, images, or graphics. Elements like sign bases, columns, or supports are not included in the sign area—as long as they don’t contain lettering or graphics (addresses and required tags are not counted towards the sign area). Different sign types are measured in slightly different ways.
Building frontage is often used determine how many and how large different sign types can be. To calculate Building Frontage:
1. Stand in the front of the building and locate your tenant space
2. Identify the part of your tenant space that touches the street or parking lot. This is your “frontage” and typically includes the storefront, windows, and main entrance.
3. Measure the frontage straight across from one side of the tenant space to the other, following the building.
4. This measurement in feet is the building frontage.
Determining
Street Frontage
Certain sign type
locations and numbers
are determined by
Major and Secondary
Street Frontage. If
you are having trouble
determining what your
Major and/or Secondary
street frontage is, please
contact the Planning
Division to confirm.
Property
Line Building
Frontage Line
SINGLE-FACED SIGNS
If your sign has just one face
with text or graphics, the sign
area includes everything inside
a single continuous outline
that surrounds all of the sign
elements. This outline can be
made up of one or two
rectangles, as long as they fully
enclose the message.
DOUBLE-FACED SIGNS
If a sign has two faces that are angled 45 degrees
or less from each other, only one face counts toward
the sign area. If the faces are different sizes, the
larger one is used. If the two faces are angled more
than 45 degrees apart, both faces are counted
toward the total sign area.
MULTI-FACED SIGNS
For signs with three or more
faces, if any of the faces are
angled 45 degrees or more from
each other, the area of each face
with text or graphics is added
together to determine the total
sign area.
THREE-DIMENSIONAL SIGNS
For signs made up of three-dimensional shapes—
like sculptures, balls, cubes, or similar objects—the
sign area is calculated by adding together the areas
of the three visible vertical sides of the smallest box that could fully contain the sign.
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Illumination
In most cases, signs can be either illuminated
or non-illuminated. If you choose to illuminate
your sign, whether from inside the sign or with
an external light source, the lighting should be
designed so it doesn’t create glare or negatively
affect nearby streets, homes, or businesses.
To help ensure lighting stays safe, attractive,
and neighbor-friendly, the standards on this
spread apply to all illuminated signs.
Sign lighting
shouldn’t be
so bright or
glaring that
it becomes a
nuisance for
nearby homes
that can see it
directly.
If you’re using
external lights,
make sure
they’re aimed
and shielded so
they illuminate
the sign—not
everything
around it.
Bright exposed
bulbs over 40
watts, or bulbs
with metal
reflectors,
aren’t allowed.
For extra
rules about
electronic
message
signs, check
out Section
19.620.080.D.4
in the full sign
ordinance.
Electrical parts
like raceways
and conduits
should be
hidden. If
hiding them
isn’t possible or
would damage
important
architectural
features, keep
them as small
as you can and
paint them to
blend in.
Neon signs and
architectural
neon lighting
are allowed in
commercial
and mixed-use
areas, as long
as they are not
flashing,
moving, or
animated.
DESIGN TIP
Signs made from high-quality
materials like aluminum may not
be transparent and may not be
ideal for internal illumination.
In these cases, consider halo
(back-lit) illumination or external
lighting that complements
the surrounding architecture
and enhances the overall
sign design.
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Sign
Typologies
AWNING CANOPY WINDOW MONUMENT
BLADE WALL PYLON CHANGEABLE COPY
UNDER CANOPY FREEWAY ORIENTED VEHICLE FUEL TEMPORARY
PG 15 PG 19 PG 23 PG 27
PG 31 PG 35 PG 39 PG 43
PG 47 PG 51 PG 53 PG 55
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RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE15 RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE15SIGN TYPOLOGIES Awning
Signs
Awning signs are printed on,
painted on, or attached to
an awning or canopy above a
business entrance or window.
These signs are part of the awning itself and are designed to be seen by pedestrians while also providing shade, shelter, and visual character to a storefront.
Awning signs are integrated into the awning or canopy above storefront doors or windows, mounted high enough for pedestrian clearance, and sized so lettering does not overwhelm the structure. Do Mount awnings and
canopies at least 8 feet
above the sidewalk.
Limit lettering and logos to
no more than 30% of the
awning or canopy surface.
Don’t
Don’t extend awnings
continuously across
masonry piers, arches, or
multiple storefront bays.
Don’t use back-lit or
internally illuminated
awning graphics.
Don’t use canopy signs in
addition to other primary
tenant identification signs
(wall signs, blade signs, etc).
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Non-retractable,
Fabric Awning
Sign with Non-
Illuminated,
Screen-Printed
Business Name
on Awning
Valanceand Main
Cover
Non-retractable,
Fabric Awning
Sign with
Externally-
Illuminated,
Screen-Printed
Business Name
on Awning
Main Cover
and Valance
Non-retractable,
Fabric Awning
Sign with Non-
Illuminated,
Screen-Printed
Business Name
on Awning
Valance
Awning
Signs
DESIGN TIP
Let the
Awning Lead
Think of the awning as a
design feature first and a sign
second. Simple lettering, restrained
graphics, and durable materials
help awning signs add color
and character without
overpowering the
storefront.
Non-retractable,
Fabric Awning
Sign with Non-
Illuminated,
Printed Business
Name on Awning
Main Cover
17 Awning signs are integrated into the
awning or canopy above storefront
doors or windows, mounted high
enough for pedestrian clearance, and
sized so lettering does not overwhelm
the structure.
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RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE19SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Canopy
Signs
Canopy signs are signs
mounted to or integrated into
a fixed canopy structure that
projects from a building.
Unlike awnings, canopies are rigid architectural elements, and the sign is applied to the canopy face or edge to identify a business or entrance while reinforcing the building’s form and the pedestrian experience. For allowable size area, see Wall Signs section on page 35.
Do
Align graphics with canopy
structure; keep proportions
clean and integrated
Don’t
Don’t use both a canopy
sign and wall sign on the
same elevation
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Canopy
Signs
DESIGN TIP
Pedestrian-Focused
Design
Canopy signs work best when
designed for people on foot. Keep
lettering clear and legible at close
range, limit graphic clutter, and align
canopies with storefront openings
to support a welcoming, walkable
streetscape.
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Window
Signs
Size Placement
25 percent of the
total window area
On the glass or within 24
inches inside the window
Do
Ensure the sign faces a
public area such as a street,
parking lot, or driveway.
Maintain transparency
for at least 75% of the
window area.
Don’t
Place window signs
deeper than 24 inches
inside the building.
Install window signs that
face only interior spaces.
Cover more than 25% of
the window area with
opaque material, including
window signage.
A window sign is
a sign placed on or just inside a
window of a business or use.
Window signs must be located on the glass or within 24 inches inside the window and must face a public area such as a street, parking lot, driveway, alley, mall, or freeway.
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RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE
SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Window
Signs
ADDITIONAL NOTE
The installation of window
signs does not require a building
permit. However, the Planning
Division must review the proposed
signage through the Temporary Sign
Permit Application to ensure code
compliance. Time limits do not
apply to window signs.
25 Window signs must be located on the
glass or within 24 inches of the inside
surface of the window and must face
a public street, parking lot, or other
public area.
Semi-permenant White
Vinyl Adhesive
Lettering and decals
Semi-permenant
White Vinyl
Adhesive
Letteringand
printed Vinyl
Adhesive Decals
Semi-permenant
White Vinyl
Adhesive
Lettering
Semi-Permenant, Color
Printed Adhesive Decals
Semi-permenant
Color Vinyl
Adhesive
Lettering
RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE 27 28
RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE27 RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE27SIGN TYPOLOGIES Monument
Signs
A monument sign is a low-profile,
freestanding sign that sits on the
ground and is typically used to identify
a business, building, or complex
set back from the street.
These signs are supported by solid columns or a base, do not hang over public property, and are designed to visually match the architecture, materials, and character of the building or site they represent.
Allowances for businesses in Commercial Complexes in Commercial and Mixed Use Zones Acres <1 1–2 2–6 6–10 10—25
Max.
Number
1 Total 3
signs
for site:
1 per
street
frontage
Total 3 signs for site:
1 on-premises sign
per 200 lineal feet on
major street frontage; 1
on-premises sign on sec -
ondary street frontage
Total 4 signs for site:
1 on-premises sign per
200 lineal feet on major
street frontage; 1 on-prem -
ises sign on secondary
street frontage
Total 5 signs for site:
1 on-premises sign per 200
lineal feet on major street
frontage; 1 on-premises
sign on secondary street
frontage
Max. Area
(sq ft)
30 40 per
sign
50 on major street front -
age; 40 on secondary
street frontage
50 on major street
frontage; 40 on secondary
street frontage
50 on major street front -
age; 40 on secondary
street frontage
Max. Height
(feet)
6 8 8 on major street
frontage; 6 on secondary
frontage
10 on major street
frontage; 6 on secondary
frontage
10 on major street frontage;
6 on
secondary frontage
Placement Oriented toward a parking lot, mall, street, driveway, or alley. Not allowed to overhang sidewalks, streets, or other public property. Must maintain safe corner site distance near driveways.
Allowances for stand alone businesses (not in commercial complexes) Stand alone uses
in Commercial and
Mixed Use Zones
Stand alone uses
offices in the
Office Zone
Uses in an Industrial Park
(Industrial Zones)
Stand alone uses in
Industrial Zones
Max.
Number
1 1 1 (For each additional 300
feet beyond the first 300
feet of street frontage, 1
additional sign is allowed,
up to a max. of 3 signs)
1 Max. Area
(sq ft)
25 25 50 50
Max. Height
(feet)
6 6 8 8
Do
Enclose internal supports,
poles, or pylons with
decorative covers.
Match materials, finishes,
and colors to the primary
structure.
Illuminate using
external fixtures, internal
illumination, or back-lit
illumination.
Use shielded up-lighting
integrated into landscaping.
Don’t
Place monument
signs outside of
landscaped areas.
Use acrylic cabinets
and/or panels.
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RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE
SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Monument
Signs
DESIGN TIP
Build It Into
the Landscape
Monument signs look best when
they feel like part of the site. Use
materials, colors, and proportions
that match the building and place
the sign within landscaped areas
so it feels grounded, permanent,
and welcoming.
29 A monument sign is a low-height,
ground-mounted sign with a solid
base, placed within landscaping, and
designed to match the architecture and
materials of the building it identifies.
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RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE31 RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE31SIGN TYPOLOGIES RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE 32RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE 32 Blade
Signs
A blade sign is a double-sided sign that is
mounted to a building wall and projects
outward, perpendicular to the building.
Blade signs are designed to be highly visible from the sidewalk and/or roadway.
Quantity Size Placement Projection
1 blade sign
per street
frontage or
parking lot
frontage on
an adjacent
property.
Sign shall not ex -
ceed one square
foot per linear
foot of building
frontage from
which the sign
projects.
All blade signs shall
be attached to a
building, not a pole
or other structure.
Provide at least 8 feet
of vertical clearance
above ground.
On the first or second story, no blade sign
shall project more than four feet. Above the
third story, no blade sign shall project more
than six feet from the face of the building wall
upon which the sign is mounted. If any blade
sign projects into or over the public right-of-
way, an encroachment permit must be ob -
tained from the Department of Public Works.
Parapet
Height Roof Eave
Do
Make sure to treat mount -
ing brackets and hard -
ware as part of the overall
design.
Don’t
Don’t Mount blade signs
flat against the wall.
Don’t install blade signs
above the roof line.
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Blade
Signs
Blade signs are
mounted perpendicular
to the building wall,
project outward over
the sidewalk, remain
small in scale, and
maintain at least 8 feet
of clearance above
pedestrian areas.
DESIGN TIP
Make the
Hardware Count
Mounting brackets are not just
functional, they are part of the sign’s
visual character. Simple round pipe
brackets or decorative metal
brackets that match the building’s
style are encouraged and help
create a cohesive,
high-quality look.
Pedestrian Right of Way
Encroachment
Permit Needed
Projection from
Building Face
4 Foot Maximum
for 2 Stories;
6 Foot Maximum
for 3+ Stories
8 Foot
Minimum
Property
Line
33 SIGN TYPOLOGIES
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Wall
Signs
A wall sign is attached
directly to a building
wall and faces outward,
running parallel to the
wall surface.
Wall signs do not project more than 18 inches and are
used to identify a business or tenant.
Do
Mount signs flat and keep
width proportionate to
the storefront.
Conceal all raceways and
mechanics, either behind
the building wall or
camouflaged with the
surrounding material.
Don’t
Cover windows or
architectural details.
Allow the sign to project
more than 18 inches.
Create sign clutter with
product or service listings.
Allowances
Building Frontage
in lineal feet
<80 80–200 200–350 350–500 500+
Commercial
Zones:
CR, CG
& CRC
Mixed Use
Zones:
MU-N, MU-V &
MU-U
Number 1 wall sign
per occupant
building
frontage
2 wall signs
per
occupant
building
frontage
3 wall signs
per occupant
building
frontage
4 wall signs
per occupant
building
frontage
5 wall signs
per occupant
building
frontage
Max.
Area
(sq ft)
1 sq ft of
sign area per
lineal foot
of occupant
building
frontage
1 sq ft of
sign area per
lineal foot
of occupant
building
frontage
1 sq ft of sign
area per lineal
foot of occupant
building frontage
(max. of 200
sq ft)
1 sq ft of sign
area per lineal
foot of occupant
building frontage
(max. of 400
sq ft)
1 sq ft of
sign area per
lineal foot
of occupant
building
frontage (max.
of 500 sq ft)
Commercial
Zones:
O
Number 1 wall sign
per building
frontage
2 wall signs per occupant building frontage
Max.
Area
(sq ft)
1 sq ft of
sign area per
lineal foot
of occupant
building
frontage.
1 square-foot of sign area per lineal foot of occupant building frontage or 200 square feet for the entire building frontage, whichever is less.
Industrial
Zones:
BMP, I, AI &
AIR within
an Industrial
Complex
Number 1 wall sign per
occupant or
building on
each building
frontage
2 wall signs on each occupant building frontage oriented toward a parking lot, mall street, driveway, alley or freeway.
Max.
Area
(sq ft)
1 sq ft of
sign area per
lineal foot
of occupant
building
frontage
1 square-foot of sign area per lineal foot of occupant building frontage not to exceed 200 square feet of total sign area.
Buildings Over 3 Stories
4 Stories 5–6 Stories 7–10 Stories 10+ Stories
Building frontage less
than 150 lineal feet
Number 1 sign per building frontage located at the top floor Max. Area
(sq ft)
100 150 200 250
Building frontage 150
lineal feet or more
Number 2 signs per building frontage located at the top floor Max. Area
(sq ft)
100 square feet
per sign up to a
total maximum
of 150 square
feet for the
building frontage
150 square feet
per sign up to a
total maximum of
225 square feet
for the building
frontage
200 square feet
per sign up to a
total maximum of
300 square feet
for the building
frontage
250 square
feet per sign
up to a total
maximum of
375 square feet
for the building
frontage
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RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE
SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Wall
Signs
37 DESIGN TIP
Let the
Building Lead
Align signs with architectural
elements and use compatible
materials so the sign enhances
rather than competes
with the building.
Wall signs are mounted flat against the
building, centered over the storefront
or on a clear wall area, and sized to fit
without covering architectural features.
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Pylon
Signs
A pylon sign is a freestanding sign
supported by one or more solid
vertical structures and mounted
directly on the ground.
These signs are only allowed in commercial complexes at least 10 acres in size.
Do
Locate signs on the same
lot or within the same
complex.
Place signs where
they clearly serve the
identified uses.
Don’t
Use thin or visually
lightweight supports.
Allowances
Commercial Complexes in Commercial and Mixed Use Zones
Acres 10–25 25+
Max.
Number
1 Pylon Sign on Major Street front -
age only
2 Pylon Signs on Major Street frontage only with minimum 600 feet of frontage
Max. Area
(sq ft)
110
Max.Height
(feet)
25 RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE 41 42
RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE
SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Pylon
Signs
Pylon signs are tall,
ground-mounted signs supported
by solid columns and oriented
toward streets, parking lots,
or other public areas.
DESIGN TIP
Keep It Solid
and Simple
Strong proportions,
durable materials, and clear
lettering help pylon signs
remain readable without
overwhelming their
surroundings.
41SIGN TYPOLOGIES
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Changeable
Copy Signs
A changeable copy sign is a sign that lets
you update the message either manually
or electronically.
Changeable copy signs are most often associated with schools, movie theaters, places of worship, etc. These signs are used to display up to date informational messages and typically do not include graphics, color, or animation.
Changeable Copy Sign standards may vary depending on the site’s use and size.
Contact Planning Staff for a full list of standards for a changeable copy sign on your site.
Do
Change messages no more
than once every 8 seconds.
Include a brief blank screen
between messages.
Don’t
Use animation, scrolling
text, flashing images,
or visual effects
Use for unrelated off-site
advertising
All Changeable
Copy Signs
Messages on changeable copy signs may change no more frequently than once every 8 seconds.
Movie Theaters One manual or digital changeable copy marquee up to 60 square feet in area.
Elementary, Middle
and High Schools
Sites less than 15 acres: One changeable copy sign up to 40 square feet in area. The sign may be mounted to the building or free standing (up to 6 feet in overall height).
Sites greater than 15 acres: One changeable copy sign up to 65 square feet in area. The sign may be mounted to the building or free standing (up to 15 feet in overall height).
Churches and Places
of Worship
Churches and places of worship are permitted one freestanding changeable copy sign (in lieu of a permitted monument sign) or one building mounted changeable copy sign (in lieu of a permitted building sign). See the standards for changeable copy signs for Places of Worship below:
Site Size Changeable Copy
Building Sign
Changeable Copy
Freestanding sign
Less than 1 acre Up to 24 square feet in area Up to 15 square feet in area and up to 6 feet in height
Between 1 -15 acres Up to 40 square feet in
area
Up to 40 square feet in area
and up to 6 feet in height
Greater than 15 acres Up to 65 square feet in
area
Up to 65 square feet in area
and up to 15 feet in height.
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Signs that use digital display technology, often LED, to display changing images, colorful graphics, and dynamic messaging are considered Electronic Message Centers (EMC). EMC’s are subject to a Conditional Use Permit and only permitted commercial properties 10 acres or larger along Arterial Streets. Contact the Planning Division for more information on where EMC’s are allowed and the applicable standards Changeable
Copy Signs
45 DESIGN TIP
Keep It Simple
One clear message a t
a time with high contrast
and restrained brightness
improves readability
and minimizes
distraction.
Changeable copy signs feature
interchangeable text panels used
to display updated messages,
often found at businesses,
schools, or community facilities.
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RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE47 RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE47SIGN TYPOLOGIES Under-Canopy
& Shingle Signs
Under-canopy and shingle
signs hang below a pedestrian
canopy or projecting support
near a storefront.
These signs face perpendicular to the building and are intended for pedestrian visibility.
Do
Maintain at least 7 feet of
clearance, or 8 feet over
public right-of-way.
Don’t
Overcrowd or use oversize
signage that disrupts
scale or creates a
potential hazard for
pedestrians underneath.
DESIGN TIP
Pedestrian
Oriented
Use simple shapes,
legible lettering, and
quality materials to
add character at
eye level.
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Under-Canopy
and Shingle Signs
49 DESIGN TIP
Keep It Simple
One clear message a t
a time with high contrast
and restrained brightness
improves readability
and minimizes
distraction.
Under-canopy and shingle signs
hang beneath a canopy or support, face
perpendicular to the storefront, and
maintain safe pedestrian clearance.
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RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE51 RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE51SIGN TYPOLOGIES Freeway-Oriented
Signs
A freeway-oriented sign
is a freestanding sign designed
primarily to identify major
businesses or sites near freeway
corridors. Freeway-oriented signs
are only allowed on commercial
complexes at least 9 acres in size.
Do
Ensure the sign does not
block views of important
natural or built features.
Obtain a Minor Conditional
Use Permit by the Planning
Commission.
Don’t
Use for off-site or general
advertising.
Place within 500 feet of
a city boundary.
Allowances
Commercial Complexes in Commercial and Mixed Use Zones
Acres 9–25 25+
Max.
Number
1 1
Max. Area
(sq ft)
225 500
Max.Height
(feet)
40 ft2 60 ft2
DESIGN TIP
Visibility Without
Visual Clutter
Use simple layout s,
strong contrast, and
minimal messaging so
information can be
read quickly at
freeway speeds.
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Vehicle
Fuel Signs
Vehicle Fuel (gas) stations often require
a signage package that addresses not
only Tenant Identification, but also
pricing, secondary retail tenants, and
signage on pump islands.
Because of their unique needs, vehicle fuel stations have their own signage standards:
DESIGN TIP
Keep it Minimal
Fuel pricing signs are limited to:
the brand or trade name,
method of sale, grade designation
and price per gallon of gasoline
or other motor vehicle fuel
offered for sale on the
business premises
Do
Design fuel station signs
to complement the
architecture, materials,
and overall branding of the
building and canopy.
Don’t
Place signs where they
obstruct pedestrian path -
ways, drive aisles, or visibili -
ty at intersections.
Maximum Number Maximum Area (sq ft) Maximum Height (ft) Freeway oriented pylon sign 1 100 45
Price/monument sign 1 (on major street frontage) 50 (price portion ≤ 30 sq ft) 8 Secondary price sign 1 (on secondary street front -
age)
15 6
Wall signs, Primary Use Refer to the wall signs Typology Wall signs, Secondary Use +1 for each use, up to 5 total 10 each Gas Canopy Signs 2 per canopy 15 each
Pump Island Signs 2 per pump 4 per sign
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SIGN TYPOLOGIES
Temporary
Signs
Temporary Signs are signs intended
for short-term display to communicate
time-limited information such as
promotions, events, sales, real estate
listings, construction activity, or
protected non-commercial messages.
These signs are not permanently affixed to a building or site and are designed to be installed and removed within a defined duration.
Temporary signs may include banners, portable signs, window signs, balloons or balloon arches, real estate signs, construction signs, subdivision signs, directional open house signs, and protected non-commercial political or free speech signs.
DESIGN TIP
Temporary Signs
Temporary signs do not count
toward a site’s total permanent
sign area and are subject
to specific standards based
on sign type, location,
duration, and use.
Do
Obtain a Temporary Sign
Permit prior to installation.
Maintain clear pedestrian
access and visibility.
Remove signage at the
end of the approved
display period.
Don’t
Obstruct pedestrian
or vehicle traffic.
Exceed size or
time limitations.
Banners Portable Signs Balloon Arches
Number 1 per street frontage 1 per establishment 1 per establishment Location Exterior building walls or windows,
below height of building roof line.
Must be securely fastened flat
against surface.
Avoid the public right of way
or any location where they will
interfere with pedestrian or
vehicular traffic.
Securely fastened to permanent
structures and set back from
all driveways and the public right
of way.
Size Up to 25% of the area of the building
wall or window it is displayed on.
Up to six square feet in area
and 36 inches in height.
Individual balloons can not ex -
ceed 24 inches in diameter. The
overall arch shall not exceed the
height of the building.
Duration Temporary Signs can be displayed for a period of 30 consecutive days twice a year, not to exceed 60 days a year. Temporary signs can be displayed longer than 30 consecutive days during the holidays, starting one week before Thanksgiving and ending one week after New Year’s Day.
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Glossary
57 Permit
Process
The Sign Permit Application process is made
up of four main stages: Submittal, Planning
Division Review, Building Division Review, and
Permit Issuance. If you have any questions on the
process, One Stop Shop Staff are always available
to help you out.
CREATIVE SIGN PERMIT
Creative Sign Permits may be obtained for signs
that do not quite fit all the zoning code standards.
The Creative Sign Permit process is meant to
encourage and permit signs that exhibit a high
degree of creativity, design, and construction. If
you are interested in this process, please contact
the Planning Division for more information.
SIGN PROGRAMS
Sign programs establish cohesion and consistency
amongst all signage within a shopping center or
multitenant site. They may offer some flexibility
in size and location standards, and help maintain
effective tenant identification.
Sign programs are required for any center or
site that has 3 or more lease spaces. For more
information on the sign program process, please
contact the Planning Division.
RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE 58
Planning staff will review the application for completeness and zoning compliance.
Online submittals: reviewed within 3 business days. In-person submittals: reviewed during the same visit.
Upload your completed application
and digital plans to the Public Permit
Portal under Planning Approvals.
The Planning Division will provide
comments and corrections. Update plans
accordingly and resubmit for review.
Bring your completed application,
3 plan sets, and applicable fees to the
One Stop Shop (City Hall, 3rd Floor)
The application and plan set are complete and
demonstrate compliance with the zoning code and design
guidelines. Planning will stamp your plans for approval.
I want to submit in person I want to submit online
Congratulations! The Building Division prepares your permit and will contact you when it is ready for issuance. You will be notified if additional fees or documentation are required.
I want to apply
for a sign permit!
Great! Download the
sign permit application
from the City website
or request one from the
Planning Division.
Now you need to prepare your plan set.
Building elevations showing
placement, dimensions,
and frontage.
For free standing signs, include
elevation of sign showing overall
dimensions including any
structural bases.
ELEVATIONS3
Site plan showing
location of the sign.
For free standing signs,
show the setback from any
property lines .
SITE 2
Sign design and
specifications.
Include dimensions,
materials, lighting,
and mounting.
SIGN DESIGN1
I want to submit in personI want to submit online
If approvedIf revisions are needed
Submit to Building Division
Upload to the Public Permit Portal under Building Permits and Include 1 stamped plan set and 1 unstamped plan set.
Bring your Planning-approved application
and plans to the Building Counter.
Building & Safety staff review the application for building and life-safety code compliance.
Typical review time is 3 business days.
If approvedIf revisions are needed
Plans move forward to permit issuance.Update plans based on The Building Division feedback and resubmit.
Prepare
Submit
Review
Issue
To download a permit
application and learn
more information, visit:
60RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE59 RIVERSIDE SIGN ORDINANCE GUIDE What to Include in Your
Submittal Drawings
Lineal frontage
must be called
out in elevation.
Site plans can simply
be an aerial map photo.
Sign plan should include
height and length
measurements.
Cross section details and
illumination specs should
also be detailed.
To help your application move smoothly through review, your drawing set should clearly show the key details of your proposed sign. Providing complete and accurate drawings upfront can help avoid delays or revision requests. Here’s what should be included:
A SITE PLAN
Provide a site plan that shows where the sign will be
located on the property. Include property lines, nearby buildings, streets, driveways, and any relevant features.
This helps staff confirm placement, visibility, and
compliance with setback and safety requirements.
B LINEAL FRONTAGE
Show the building’s lineal frontage on your elevation
drawings and clearly label it. This helps staff verify
how much sign area is allowed for your property.
C SIGN PLAN WITH DIMENSIONS
Include a scaled sign plan that shows the exact
height and width of the proposed sign. Be sure to
clearly label all dimensions so reviewers can quickly
confirm compliance.
D CROSS-SECTION DETAILS
Provide cross-section drawings that show how
the sign will be constructed and mounted to
the building or structure. This helps confirm
materials, depth, attachment methods, and
overall design.
E ILLUMINATION SPECIFICATIONS
If the sign will be illuminated, include lighting
details. Show whether the lighting is internal or
external, how fixtures are shielded or directed, and
provide basic specs to demonstrate that the sign
meets illumination standards.
A
B
C
D
E
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Glossary
BUILDING FRONTAGE
The linear measurement of exterior walls enclosing
interior spaces which are oriented to and most
nearly parallel to public streets, public alleys,
parking lots, malls or freeways (see page 10 for
information).
CHANGEABLE COPY SIGN
Sign displaying a message that is changed manually
(by means of moveable letters or slats) or digitally.
Changeable copy signs only include messaging and
do not depict colorful images, animated graphics, or
dynamic messaging.
CHANNEL LETTERS
Channel letters means three-dimensional individual
letters or figures that are affixed to a building or to a freestanding sign structure by sliding the letters
into channels.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
Directional sign means an exterior on-site sign that
directs or guides pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
Examples include handicapped parking, one-way,
exit, entrance, rest rooms, emergency room,
garage, and such similar functions.
ELECTRONIC MESSAGE CENTER SIGN
A sign that uses digital display method (e.g. LED,
LCD, plasma, etc), to depict variable messaging
and colorful graphics.
MAJOR STREET FRONTAGE
Major street frontage means the major street
frontage from which the majority of the
pedestrian or vehicular traffic is drawn or toward
which the building or buildings are oriented
for primary visual impact (see page 10 for
information).
OFF-SITE SIGN
Off-site sign means a sign that advertises
commercial products, accommodations, services
or activities not provided in or on the property
or premises upon which it is located.
ON-SITE SIGN
On-site sign (also: on-premises sign) means a
sign that advertises the commercial business,
establishment, accommodation, services or
activities provided on the premises on which the
sign is located, or is expected to be provided in the
near future [i.e., “coming soon” movie posters].
All establishments within a shopping center are
on-site as to any sign(s) also located within that
shopping center. Where such center is subject to
master sign program, all establishments subject
to the program are considered on-site whenever
located within any location subject to the program.
As to construction site signs, “on-site” includes all
parties involved in the specific construction project.
SECONDARY STREET FRONTAGE
Secondary street frontage means any street
frontage other than a major street frontage
(see page 10 for information).
SIGN FACE
Sign face means an exterior display surface of a
sign including non-structural trim exclusive of
the supporting structure. The area of a sign that
is available for mounting and public display of the
visually communicative image.
TENANT SIGN
Tenant sign means a sign that identifies a tenant,
occupant, or establishment whether residential or
commercial and provides no other advertisements
or product identification.