ACTION:
____________________________
Clerk/Secretary
Department: City Manager Item No: D2
Prepared by: Imelda M. Huerta, Assistant City Manager Meeting Date: November 12, 2024 Approved by: John Conley, City Manager Agenda Location: Discussion SUBJECT: VISTA BUSINESS PARK SPECIFIC PLAN AND SPECIFIC PLAN 14 A-FRAME SIGNAGE RECOMMENDATION: Discuss A-Frame signs in the Vista Business Park Specific Plan and Specific Plan 14 for retail businesses and provide direction to staff.
CORRELATION TO CITY COUNCIL GOALS: Economic Development PRIOR ACTION: On June 2, 2020, introduced and adopted City Council Ordinance No. 2020-9, temporarily relaxing regulations related to signage for all businesses and outdoor seating for restaurants and microbreweries due to the local emergency created by the COVID-19 pandemic (Vote: 5-0).
On May 26, 2020, discussed recommendations to help businesses reopen and regain lost business as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and, by consensus, directed staff to draft an urgency ordinance that would allow businesses to increase signage and restaurants and microbreweries to use outdoor space for additional seating (No Vote).
For a comprehensive list of prior City Council actions, please see Exhibit 1.
STATEMENT ON THE SUBJECT: Councilmember O’Donnell requested the City Manager place a discussion item on an upcoming agenda to discuss a proposal for a maximum of four portable A-Frame signs for retail businesses in the Vista Business Park Specific Plan and Specific Plan 14 areas.
FISCAL IMPACT: No direct fiscal impact with this discussion item.
EXHIBITS:
1.Prior City Council Actions
2.Vista Business Park Specific Plan
3.Specific Plan 14
4.Vista Development Code – Chapter 18.52, Signs on Private Property AGENDA
REPORT
CITY COUNCIL
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
SUCCESSOR AGENCY
BUENA SANITATION DISTRICT
JOINT POWERS FINANCING AUTHORITY
Discussed A-Frame signs in the Vista Business Park Specific Plan and Specific Plan 14 for retail businesses and directed staff to bring a discussion item before the Planning Commission to develop recommendations for a temporary A-Frame sign program and permanent wayfinding signage that incorporates public art and report back to the City Council. Vote: 5-0
PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS
On June 2, 2020, introduced and adopted City Council Ordinance No. 2020-9, temporarily relaxing regulations related to signage for all businesses and outdoor seating for restaurants and microbreweries due to the local emergency created by the COVID-19 pandemic (Vote: 5-0).
On May 26, 2020, discussed recommendations to help businesses reopen and regain lost business as a result of the COVID- 19 pandemic and, by consensus, directed staff to draft an urgency ordinance that would allow businesses to increase signage and restaurants and microbreweries to use outdoor space for additional seating (No Vote).
On September 28, 2010, adopted City Council Resolution No. 2010-136, approving a Negative Declaration for an Ordinance amending Chapters 18.04 and 18.52 of the Vista Development Code relating to sign regulations; and introduced and adopted City Council Ordinance No. 2010- 16, (Planning Commission approved version), amending Chapters 18.04 and 18.52 of the Vista Development Code relating to sign regulations (Vote: 5-0).
On January 27, 2009, a workshop with the City Council covered the results of the sign inventory; staff received additional direction regarding sign ordinance revisions; and code enforcement efforts were discussed (Vote: Consensus).
On April 1, 2008, a workshop with the City Council covered issues regarding sign regulations and City' s ongoing efforts for improving commercial signage. At this workshop, staff also obtained specific direction on desired changes to existing sign regulations (Vote: Consensus).
On April 17, 2007, the City Council held a workshop to discuss code enforcement and sign related issues. At this meeting, among other code enforcement items, Council directed staff to complete a sign inventory; amend the sign ordinance to strengthen regulations for temporary signage; and bring back proposed changes to sign regulations following completion of the sign inventory (Vote: Consensus).
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EXHIBIT 1
Vista Business Park
Specific Plan
Adopted May 11, 1993
By City Council
Ordinance No. 93-13
Amended: August 12, 1997 (City Council Ordinance No. 97-18) May 12, 1998 (City Council Ordinance No. 98-4) August 25,
1998 (City Council Ordinance No. 98-6)
November 16, 1999 (City CouncilOrdinance No. 99-23)
February 10, 2004 (City CouncilOrdinance No. 2004-1)
January 22, 2008 (City Council Ordinance No. 2008-6)
August 14, 2012 (City Council Ordinance No. 2012-9)
October 9, 2012 (City Council Ordinance No. 2012-12)
December 13, 2016 (City Council Ordinance No. 2016-18)
December 10, 2019 (City Council Ordinance 2019-19)
June 22, 2021 (City Council Ordinance 2021-7)
January 10, 2023 (City Council Ordinance 2023-2)
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EXHIBIT 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER
I. INTRODUCTION
II. PLAN CONFORMANCE WITH STATE LAW AND CITY GENERAL
PLAN
III. DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS AND STANDARDS
IV. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING REGULATIONS
V. LAND USE AND ZONING
VI. PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
VII. PLAN AMENDMENT
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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCT ION
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1 INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE
JUNE 1992
The Vista Business Park Specific Plan as presented herein is comprised of approximately 1153 acres of territory generally located in the southern portion of the City of Vista. The territory evolved from a series of re-organizations started in 1975 and concluded in about 1983. The territory can generally be defined by its current boundaries common with the City of Carlsbad, City of San Marcos and County of San Diego jurisdictions. Specific Plan No. 20 adopted in 1981 encompassed 672 acres but was expanded subsequently by various amendments.
After the City adoption of the Enterprise Zone, Specific Plan No. 20 hereinafter known as the VISTA BUSINESS PARK SPECIFIC PLAN terminated along the 150 foot wide SDG&E easement. The Enterprise Zone amendment accounted for adding approximately 203 acres of territory. Upon request of the City of Vista, Mitsui Fudosan USA, the current owner of land formerly defined as Specific Plan No. 15 agreed to cooperate by merging Specific Plan No. 15 entirely into Specific Plan No. 20, thus the 1106 acre Vista Business Park Specific Plan was established.
Purpose
It is the intent and purpose of this document to re-classify land uses in a manner that more nearly reflects current land uses and projected trends in development. The plan takes into consideration; sensitive biological areas (including wildlife habitat), topography (steep slopes and major natural drainage patterns), points of ingress and egress, and othercriteria established by the originally Specific Plan No. 20. It should be pointed out that this plan continues to acknowledge the industrial land use and commercial land use designations originally established in Specific Plan No. 15. All uses and facilities now existing or in City permit processing are intended to be sanctioned under the proposed Specific Amendment.
Authorization
This Specific Plan is adopted by the City Council according to Section 65450, Et. Seq., of the State Government Code. At the local level, the Land Use Element of the General Plan specifies when Specific Plans shall be applied by meeting certain criteria. The Land Use element of the General Plan addresses specific plans and establishes certain criteria for their application, portions of which are set forth below:
1. Where the territory in question has two or more property owners or where the territory is five acres or larger and contemplatestwo or more development types.
2. Where topographical or physical land circumstances make traditional zoning applicability undesirable.
3. Where General Plan designations divide property and a transition between land uses is desired.
4. Where property lines or lot-sizes and/or shapes are such that applicable zoning regulations are impractical or undesirable.
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2 Application of this Specific Plan as authorized pursuant to Section 65450 is intended to meet all of the above criteria. The first is met with multiple ownership of more than five acres with over two development types. Drainage and topography concerns address the second. The size of ownerships permits parcels to contain two or more land uses where transitions are important as required in the third. Finally, the shape of the parcels and their respective sizes require special treatments that traditional zoning cannot provide.
Plan Objectives
The primary objective of this Specific Plan is to implement the goals of the City’s General Plan as they relate to development of industrial and related commercial land uses. The following objectives are established to guide the development of the Plan. All development within the Plan area must comply with these objectives:
1. To provide the City of Vista with a well planned and designed employment center that contains a combination of industrial, research, commercial, and open space uses.
2. To preserve and conserve natural resources identified in the Specific Plan area.
3. To establish development regulations and standards which will regulate the functioning, appearance, and maintenance of all uses and activities in order to minimize potential conflicts with adjacent land uses.
4. To establish specific development regulations and standards that will supplement the City’s current Development Regulations.
5. To ensure compatibility of all uses within the Plan area and surrounding properties through design and development guidelines.
6. To provide the City with a mix of industrial, business park, and commercial land uses to balance quality development with economic growth.
7. To assure the orderly extension of public infrastructure (roads, sewer, water, drainage facilities, public utilities) necessary to accommodatedevelopment with the Business Park.
8. To streamline permit processing as an incentive for business to build and locate in the business park.
Introduction to Land Use
A Specific Plan Implementation Zone (SPI) Ordinance was adopted to authorize the use areas contained in this Chapter. The City of Vista official zoning maps will show the SPI Zone on all land within the Specific Plan. Specific Plan mapping incorporated herein shows the various use areas (A,B,C,D & E). Reference to Chapter V will then link the use area designation to the appropriate land use group thereby providing land use descriptions. 11/12/2024 D2 7 of 100
3 CHAPTER II
PLAN CONFORMANCE WITH
STATE LAW AND CITY GENERAL
PLAN
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4 PLAN CONFORMANCE WITH STATE LAW AND CITY GENERAL PLAN Section 65451 ET SEQ of the California Governmental Code, identifies the contents of Specific Plans. The following discussion illustrates how this Specific Plan will conform with the appropriate criteria:
1. Governmental Code Requirement:
The distribution, location, and extent of uses of land, including open space within the area covered by the plan.
Conformance Finding:
Chapter V of this Specific Plan consists of a written text and mapping which provides a detailed description of land uses, proposed location of such uses and method to facilitate those uses.
2. Governmental Code Requirements:
The proposed distribution, location, extent and intensity of major components of public and private transportation, sewage, water, drainage, solid waste disposal, energy and other essential facilities proposed to be located within the area covered by the plan and needed to support the land use described in the plan.
Conformance Finding:
Chapters III, IV and V of this Specific Plan will establish general development guidelines and special development criteria which describe in detail the extent and intensity for implementing the required infrastructure. Solid waste disposal is not addressed in this plan. However, trash collection is described.
3. Governmental Code Requirement:
Standards and criteria by which development will proceed and standards for the conservation, development and utilization of natural resourceswhere applicable.
Conformance Finding:
The Development Regulations set forth in Chapter III, contain guidelines and standards that will govern development within the Specific Plan Area. In addition the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report dated December 1992 sets forth specific mitigation measures that must be completed regarding the designation and preservation of open space lands.
4. Governmental Code Requirements:
A program of implementation measures including regulations, program, public works projects and financing measures necessary to carry out requirements (1), (2), and (3).
Conformance Finding:
Plan Implementation Procedures are set forth in Chapter VI, hereof, specifically addresses 11/12/2024 D2 9 of 100
5 the procedure of implementing this Plan within the time frame specified.
5. Governmental Code Requirement:
A specific plan shall include a statement of the relationship of the specific plan to the City’s General Plan.
Conformance Finding:
The City of Vista has recently amended its Land Use Element, Circulation Element (pending), Open Space Element, and other mandated elements of the General Plan. In conformance with State guidelines, this Specific Plan provides the means and standards for the implementation of the General Plan’s Goals and Objectives in a manner required by law. 11/12/2024 D2 10 of 100
6 CHAPTER III
DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS AND
STANDARDS
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7 GENERAL REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
G-1 AGRICULTURAL USES
Agricultural, horticultural, greenhouses, and plant nursery uses, and structures appurtenant accessory shall be permitted to continue as nonconforming buildings and land uses. Such buildings and land uses may be expanded or intensified within the boundaries of the site(s) on which they are located, in conformance with current development codes for the subject activity.
G-2 PUBLIC UTILITIES
Prior to the approval of any final parcel map, subdivision map, site development plan or grading plan (other than agricultural related) the various serving utilities (Vista Irrigation District, Vista Sanitation District, Buena Sanitation District or their duly empowered successor agency) shall certify that an arrangement, satisfactory to Districts, has been made for capacity availability to serve that property.
G-3 CODE CONFORMANCE
Construction within the boundaries of this Specific Plan shall conform with all appropriate building (construction), fire codes, and other development codes related thereto, unless specifically addressed herein.
G-4 SIGN REGULATIONS
Signs shall be regulated pursuant to DS-10 through DS-12. A comprehensive sign program shall be submitted for approval concurrent with any entitlement application.
G-5 GRADING/EROSION CONTROL
Prior to the issuance of any grading permit on any project within the Specific Plan, an Erosion Control Plan shall be submitted for the review and approval of the City Engineer.
Such plan shall show the method to control runoff and siltation during the site construction and a program for maintenance until permanent landscape and ultimate drainage facilities are constructed. All grading within the Specific Plan shallbeperformed under permit issued pursuant to normal City of Vista development regulations and shall be in substantial conformance with the grading concept plan approved by the City Planner. Minor grading required for agricultural use and operation are exempted from this requirement.
G-6 OPERATIONAL STANDARDS
All activities in the Specific Plan area shall be subject to the performance standards listed below. The applicant, at the time of submittal for building permit, and all subsequent tenants, shall certify that the industrial development complies with these performance standards. If inspection reveals noncompliance with any of the performance standards upon submission of findings, the City Council may direct that the industrial operation shall cease until compliance is re-established. The City Council may grant a compliance time of no greater than 30 days for the project to comply with performance standards.
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8 1. Noise created by or resulting from any industrial operation shall not exceed the noise level standards contained in table 8.32.040 of the City of Vista Municipal Code level on or beyond the boundary of the property on which the soundisproduced.
Additionally, the one-hour average sound level limit measured at the residential property line abutting the business park boundary shall be 60 decibels from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and 50 decibels from 10:00 p.m. to the following 7:00 a.m., except that in the event the industrial operation produces noise which contains a steady, audible tone such as a whine, screech or hum, or is a repetitive noise such as hammering or riveting, the one-hour average sound level limit shall be reduced by five decibels.
Peak noises emitted from any source shall not exceed a level of 75 dBA during daytime hours and 70 dBA during night time hours, when measured at the residential property boundary adjoining the business park.
Definition of Average Sound Level: A sound level typical of the sound levels at a certain place during a given period of time, averaged by the general rule of combination for sound levels, said general rule being set forth in American National StandardSpecifications for Sound Level Meters S1. 4-1983. Average sound level is also called equivalent continuous sound level (Leq.).
2. Odors, glare, heat, electrical or other disturbance created by, or resulting from any industrial operation shall not be detectable beyond the industrial building site on which the disturbance is produced.
3. Discharge of air pollutants shall be subject to the Air Pollution Control District Rules and Regulations, the California State Health and Safety Code, and Federal Air Quality Regulations.
4. Any discharge of industrial waste must conform to the most current local, state and federal regulations controlling industrial waste quality and disposal.
5. No industrial operation shall in any way damage or create a nuisance to the public health, safety or welfare.
6. The office portion of any buildings in a development shall be sound attenuated from adjacent noise sources to a level acceptable to human occupancy as defined by Federal, State or local codes.
G-7 STREET ACCESS CRITERIA
The intersection spacing along arterial streets shall maintain a distance of approximately 1,300 feet and along collector streets shall be approximately 700 feet, as generally designated on the Specific Plan diagram. Any private or public street intersection or any driveway access not indicated on this Specific Plan shall be restricted to right turn in and right turn out when traffic conditions dictate. Other intersection spacing may be considered, if certain criteria is approved by the City Engineer.
All other abutter’s access rights along arterial and collector streets shall be waived to restrict driveway access, unless the City Engineer approves coordinated access at time of development.
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9 The combining of access points (e.g. private road easements, driveways, etc.) is encouraged as a means to promoting traffic safety.
G-8 PUBLIC STREET IMPROVEMENTS REQUIRED
All parcels hereafter created shall have direct access, no less than 30 feet in width, to a public street shown on the Specific Plan, or to a public street which is approved by a parcel map or subdivision map. Such parcels maintain unobstructed access to the existing dedicating and improved public street system.
No final parcel map, final subdivision map or final site development permit shall be approved unless public streets abutting the development or each lot in the parcel map or subdivision map are dedicated to at least one half the required street width plus an adjoining 12 feet and improvements are constructed or guaranteed across the frontage of the said lots including improvements necessary to connect said abutting street to the existing improved vista Public Street System.
No building permit or grading permit, shall be issued for any lot or building site until all required public street abutting the subject lot or building site have been dedicated and the required street improvements guaranteed to standards of the City of Vista.
Such lot or building site shall have legal access, no less than 40 feet in width, adjoining the dedicated and improved public street system. Exception: Agricultural, greenhouse and nursery-type structures are exempted from this requirement for street dedication and improvement.
G-9 INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITMENT
Prior to issuance of any discretionary permit the developer shall ensure that all facilities associated with the expansion of infrastructure systems to service the site will be installed at the cost of the developer.
G-10 LOT DESIGN STANDARDS
Parcels over 15 acres in size may be required to provide at least two access points to a public street shown on the Specific Plan. No development shall be approved that land- locks another parcel or denies neighboring property required or necessary access.
All lots hereafter created shall have a street frontage of approximately 150 feet except lots on a cul-de-sac, which may be reduced in width, or employ the use of fee-access strips when specifically approved in a subdivision. No lot shall have a depth less than 150 feet.
G-11 PUBLIC STREET PARKING PROHIBITIONS
The City may impose no parking prohibitions along any public street within the specific plan, upon findings that sight distance, street service capacity or the public welfare is not being adequately protected.
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10 G-12 PEDESTRIAN TRAIL LINKAGE
Prior to the issuance of building permits or the approval of subdivision maps, the City Engineer with concurrence of the Director of Parks and Community Services may require easements for the creation of pedestrian trails to provide access to and from the open space canyon Area D and connecting to a public street provided such trails are found generally in conformance with the Resource Management Plan and/or subsequent adopted trails plan.
G-13 APPEAL PROCEDURE
Any appeal filed pursuant to this Specific Plan shall comply with Section 18.04.15c of the Development Code.
G-14 THE FOLLOWING USES ARE PROHIBITED IN ALL PORTIONS OF THE SPECIFIC PLAN
1. Churches
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
The following development standards are guidelines to provide maximum flexibility for site and building design, establishing a distinct site identity and maintaining a design continuity throughout the park.
DS-1 BUILDING SETBACKS
b) Front and/or street side yard setbacks shall be no less than twenty (20) feet except for special landscaped streets which are subject to different setbacks pursuant to this plan.
b) Lots may have interior side yard setbacks at zero.
c) Rear yard setbacks will be determined by fire, building and access codes for the use being proposed.
d) Building setbacks adjacent to all streets shown on the Specific Plan and all streets dedicated or offered for dedication shall be measured from the ultimate street right-of-way.
e) Parking may encroach into the required setback area as set forth in Section DS-6 (e).
DS-2 BUILDING HEIGHT
a) The height of all structures within the park shall be limited to a maximum of three (3) stories, not to exceed forty-five (45) feet in height, unless additional height is granted under the provisions of a special use permit. b) Height of buildings on a parcel abutting a non-industrial zone are subject to the building height standards of that zone, if such building is proposed within 200 11/12/2024 D2 15 of 100
11 feet of abutting property line, but in no case shall it be restricted to less than two (2) stories or 35 feet, whichever is less.
c) All structures in excess of two (2) stories in height shall be required to install a fire sprinkler system, as approved by the Vista Fire Department. In addition, an aerial equipment fee must be paid.
d) The Vista Business and Research Park is directly under the Palomar Airport approach surface. The approach surface consists of a 40;1 and 7.1 pitch over the park. The approach and clear zone plan and profile shall be on file with the city Planner. FAA Regulations do not allow any structure to penetrate the approach surface. Therefore, all heights of structures exceeding 45 feet will be subject to FAA Regulations.
DS-3 LOT SIZE REDUCTION
The minimum lot area for the “A” and “B” Use Group, as described in Chapter V, shall be one acre. The “C” Use Group shall have a minimum lot area of one- half acre.
Subdivisions of land may be processed and development permits issued for parcels less than the specified minimum parcel size provided:
a) The reduced parcel is being created for a bona fide user, as evidenced by the filing of a companion site development plan submitted to and approved by the Director of Planning; and
b) A concurrent parcel map is filed and recorded; and
c) The residual parcel or parcels sizes remain one acre or larger unless a part of the approved industrial complex showing reduced lots.
DS-4 BUILDING COVERAGE
The combined total area of all building, driveways, parking and loading areas shall not cover more than 80 percent of the area of a building site exclusive of public right- of-way. The maximum building coverage shall not exceed 50% ofthe maximum 80% combined area. The remaining 20% shall be landscaped. Required setbacks and interior landscaping may be included in calculating this landscaping area.
DS-5 DISTANCE BETWEEN BUILDING
Accessory structures shall maintain a separation distance from other structures as specified by applicable provisions of the building and fire codes. The architectural and visual screening provisions of DS-16 shall apply.
DS-6 PARKING
Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with the following standards:
a) General Manufacturing
One (1) parking space for each 750 square feet gross floor area plus those 11/12/2024 D2 16 of 100
12 additional spaces that may be required for areas devoted to other uses e.g. office or retail sales.
b) Research and Development or Office
One (1) parking space for each 300 square feet gross floor area plus those additional spaces that may be required for areas devoted to other uses e.g., office or retail sales. Medical offices will require one (1) parking space for each 200 square feet of gross floor area. 1
c) Warehouse and Wholesale Establishment
One (1) parking space for each 1000 square feet gross floor area plus those additional spaces that may be required for areas devoted to other uses e.g. officeor retail sales.
d) Modification of Required Parking Standards
A modification of the required parking standards may be granted on a developed legal conforming building site subject to the issuance of a minor use permit with consideration of the following criteria:
The City Planner may require a transportation management plan not limited to provisions for mass transit car pooling, van pools, bicycles, staggered work hours.
Where on premises parking lot attendants, tandem parking or excessive modified parking standards are proposed, the City Planner may refer the application to the Planning Commission. In all cases the City shall impose conditions, deed declarations and other notices with enforcement provisions, thereby ensuring compliance with provision determined necessary to protect the neighborhood compatibility and public safety.
e) Street Parking Prohibitions
Parking approved for each building site within this Specific Plan is intended to be accomplished within the property and not adjoining streets. Therefore no variances modifications exceptions or reduction in standards for the required number of employee parking spaces will be allowed for new buildings or existing buildings which result in displaced parking on the street. f) Parking in Front Setbacks
A portion of the required front yard setback may be utilized for parking under the following limitations:
1. Where a 40 foot setback is required, parking spaces may encroach 20 feet into the setback provided not more than 30% of the total setback area is eliminated.
2. Where a 30 foot setback is required, parking spaces may encroach 15 feet into the setback provided not more than 40% of the total setback area is eliminated.
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13 3. Where a 20 foot setback is required, parking spaces may encroach 10 feet into the setback provided not more than 50% of the total setback area is eliminated.
1 Added per Ordinance No. 2008-6, adopted January 22nd, 2008. g) Outside Parking Storage
Businesses which require the on-site parking of service related vehicles, shall provide a separate screened parking area located in the rear 50% of the site.
Such parking area shall be exclusive of the required parking approved for the site unless approved by the City Planner or the Planning Commission upon referral.
h) Exceptions
Parking standards for residential, multiple occupancy buildings, commercial use, reciprocal parking and other provisions not specifically addressed herein shall comply with the applicable provisions of the development code.
DS-7 LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
Landscaping will be an integral part of establishing continuity throughout the park.
Finished grading for all landscaped areas shall be coordinated to provide a smooth rolling terrain character that blends slope areas with flat building pad area. The use of earth mounds is recommended, both to screen and to add to the natural theme of landscaping. Earth mounds between parking and public thoroughfare areas are recommended to soften views of parked vehicles where possible. Special manufactured slopes for landscaping of front yard setbacks shall be graded to 2:1 ratio or flatter for turf growth and maintenance. Landscape design and installation shall be in conformance with the provisions of Section 18.56 of the city development code, unless otherwise specified hereinafter.
Finish land form and grade shall be an integral part of the landscape these. All landscaping shall be by the developer in accordance with the Specific Plan. All landscaped areas shall be permanently irrigated and maintained with an automatic sprinkler system.
a) General Requirements
Each lot andbuilding site shall maintain the minimum landscapedarea as defined of not less than 15% of the net parcel. Parking lots shall maintain no less than 5 percent of the asphalted surface in permanent landscaped area.
Drought tolerant landscape materials such as xeriscape shall be strongly encouraged, and may be required in certain locations such as, adjacent to open space areas. In addition, fire resistant landscape materials may be required at locations presenting a high fire hazard to existing or proposed structures.
Consultation with the water serving agency is recommended since limitations may occur.
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14 b) Unpaved Areas
All unpaved areas not designated as future development areas shall be landscaped as specified on the landscape plans submitted during the approval process. Undeveloped areas qualifying as natural resources or amenities may be preserved for the scenic value as a portion of the required landscaping. c) Parking Areas
For every five parking stalls, one tree shall be provided in the paved area. Trees may be evenly distributed throughout or clustered. Parking areas shall be landscaped in such a manner as to screen said areas from view of access streets and adjacent properties. The irregular placement of trees and shrubs, both singles and groupings, will create a drifting mass that will compliment the development. Parking islands shall maintain a minimum width of six (6) feet and must be drip irrigated.
d) Slope Banks
All slope banks steeper than 5:1 or five feet in vertical height shall be hydro- seeded prior to rough grading sign off and further landscaped as specified in these provisions. Erosion control fabric and deep rooted plant material is required.
e) Street Frontage Landscaping
Each building site or lot adjacent to a public street where the visible graded or natural slope bank is in excess of five (5) feet above the street curb elevation shall be required to install and maintain landscape planting along the entire frontage according to the specifications described on exhibit “A”. Such landscaping shall be installed as directed on the approved landscape plan prior to rough grading sign off.
f) Canyon Abutment Landscaping
Each building site or lot adjacent to open space canyon area ‘D’ is required to landscape the upper 30 feet measured below the top of bank (manufactured pad edge) continuously along the canyon edge as demonstrated on exhibit “b”. Such landscape planting shall generally conform to specifications described on exhibit “c” and shall be permanently irrigated by the lot or building site until other arrangements can be made. Such landscaping and irrigation system must be approved by the Director of Parks and Community Services prior to installation and prior to occupancy.
g) Landscape Maintenance and Upkeep
All landscaped areas must be maintained in a neat, healthy and thriving condition. Planters shall be free of weeds and debris. Non compliance may result in a citation from the code enforcement officer and legal action by the city to prosecute the landowner.
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15 h) Proposed Site Erosion Control
Landscaping plans for beautification and slope stabilization must be submitted with every grading plan. The landscape plan must be approved by the Community Development Director prior to grading plan issuance for conformance with standards established herein. All landscaping must be
planted and an adequate irrigation system installed prior to city rough grading sign off. The landscaping must be maintained into perpetuity or until replaced pursuant to an approved Site Development Plan.
i) Existing Site Erosion Enforcement
Within 120 days of the effective date of this section, all existing graded pads and banks which contain dead or unmaintained erosion landscaping or lack irrigation facilities must be repaired, replaced and/or corrected to conform to the approved grading submittal. Within 30 days of receiving city notice to comply, landscaping or erosion control matting must be installed as specified on the grading plan submittal. This erosion control landscaping must be maintained into perpetuity or until replaced pursuant to an approved landscape development plan. j) Irrigation Information
The Vista Irrigation District provides water delivery within the Business Park.
Landscape designers are encouraged to contact Vista Irrigation District for assistance in sizing meters to comply with water allocation standards. The use of xeriscape planting and drip water systems are advised. Vista Irrigation District will be requested to acknowledge review of all landscape plans.
DS-8 TREATMENT AREAS ADJOINING RESIDENTIAL
Existing residential land uses adjoining or within the Specific Plan shall be buffered from adjacent industrial development through the use of a special landscape barrier or combination wooden fence and masonry pilasters with dense landscaping adjacent hereto. Refer to the specific plan map for location and width.
Buffer Area No. 1 (see map) The following buffer areas result from previous public hearings.
Upon development of the Business Park property adjoining residential property, the special treatment area designated on the Specific Plan shall remain natural and unaltered within a minimum 25-foot width. Dense landscaping shall be planted on the treatment area and abutting slope bank and must be maintained by the Business Park landowner, when development adjoining the residential property occurs. No building/structure will be allowed closer than 75 feet, measured from the adjoining residential property line. See Specific Plan map for location.
Buffer Area No. 2 (see map)
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16 1. Building setback.
a. Min. 75 feet from property line.
2. Building height (lots abutting Buffer Area No. 1 only). a.
Two-story maximum; height limit of 28 feet
3. Parking setback.
a. Min. 50 feet from property.
4. Landscaping.
a. Retain portion of existing eucalyptus grove (75 feet wide from existing bridge to approximately 300 feet south).
b. Provide a 6 foot high wood fence with masonry pilasters on top of a 3 foot berm, except for the areas where existing eucalyptus trees will remain.
c. The landscape buffer shall be a combination of 75 feet and 50 feet in width. A minimum 50 percent shall be 75 feet in width. The approximate length of the buffer is 1100-feet, 550 feet of which must be 75 feet in width. The minimum 550 foot portion of 75 foot wide landscaped buffer shall run south from the existing bridge and include the 300 foot of existing eucalyptus grove described in 4.a. d. The landscaped portion of the buffer shall be placed in an open space easement.
e. Slopes and buffer shall be densely planted with the species of eucalyptus presently existing on site. Planting size shall be recommended by a licensed landscape architect but shall be of sufficient maturity to provide an immediately effective vegetation screening.
f. Additional planting shall be included to block the low view through the eucalyptus trees (i.e., acacia trees) and shall be at the recommendation of a licensed landscape architect.
g. In addition to the buffer of eucalyptus trees, one tree for every parking space shall be provided. The trees shall be evenly distributed if within 75 feet of the property line to provide a more even tree canopy. h. In addition to the required 75/50 foot buffer landscaping, 5 percent of the asphalt area within 75 feet of the property line shall be landscaped.
i. The landscape buffer/open space easement shall be maintained by the industrial park owner, lot owner or an approved maintenance district. j. In addition to the standards cited herein all landscaping shall be in conformance with the development code.
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17 5. Architecture.
a. Loading doors shall be oriented away from existing residentially zoned areas.
b. All outside refuse collection areas shall be screened by a six- foot- high decorative block, concrete or stucco wall with concrete floor and apron and a chain-link gate with wood slats. Trash pickup shall be restricted to the hours of 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
DS-9 TREATMENT AREAS ADJOINING RESIDENTIAL
Noise Design Standards:
Upon the effective date of this amendment, all new development within the business park shall comply with the following standards and requirements:
1. All new development proposed within 200 feet of the park boundary abutting residential land uses shall incorporate noise mitigation measures which will control proposed noise sources to a one-hour sound level of 45 decibels measured at the business park boundary. Measures to mitigate noise could include architectural design features, location of door opening, trash reciprocals, loading docks and parking lot locations.
2. New development or addition to existing structures anywhere in the business park shall comply with the noise emission standards set forth in section G-6.1.
3. Prior to permit issuance, staff shall have the discretionary authority to require an acoustical analysis if the proposed use is determined to be a noise generator source. Mitigation measures shall be incorporated into the project design as recommended in the report.
DS-10 BUSINESS PARK ENTRY IDENTIFICATION SIGNAGE
The overall Business park will be identified with monument signs located in the landscaped areas to be provided at the intersections of roads shown by symbol on the Specific Plan map. Such signs should be simple in design, ground mounted, carved or routed letters, constructed of concrete or other low maintenance materials.
Property owners will be requested to grant a sign/landscape easement of nominal size to the city or empowered maintenance district. The city or maintenance district will be responsible for the design, and installation of park entry signage and landscaping at its expense. Maintenance will not be the responsibility of the landowner.
DS-11 NEIGHBORHOOD ENTRY SIGNAGE
Where an owner/developer holding 50 or more acres of land under a single planned project development program wishes to identify the project name, the city may grant such monument type signage and landscape theme features provided the size, 11/12/2024 D2 22 of 100
18 location, type of material and other criteria are met. Such signs shall be simple in design, ground mounted, carved or routed letters, constructed of concrete or other low maintenance materials.
DS-12 GENERAL SIGN AND GRAPHIC REQUIREMENTS
Each individual site may be identified with its own non-illuminated monument sign located within the required landscaped setback behind the right-of-way line. The monument sign will list the firm’s name, logo and building address. Acceptable sign materials are: wood, concrete, stucco, masonry, etc. The size shall not exceed 10 feet by 3.5 feet high, at least 12 inches thick. Alternate proposals for signage appropriate for a high-technology, professional/manufacturing facility may be approved by the City Planner.
Individual tenant or building identification wall signs shall conform to the appropriate provisions of the sign code. In no case shall backlit metal letters or externally illuminated plastic-faced letters or signs will not be approved.
Ancillary signage such as: stop signs, directional signs (loading area shipping and receiving, guest parking, employees in the form of guidelines as to size, color, materials, type sign program for the entire project in the site plan application.
DS-13 SCREENING OF EQUIPMENT
Buildings and/or structures where the roof level is at or below an adjoining street level shall make specific provisions for the screening of such equipment. Such provisions might include placing the equipment indoors, in a basement, or a completely enclosed roof structure that is architecturally compatible with the existing or proposed building.”
DS-14 REFUSE COLLECTION AREAS
a. All outside refuse collection areas shall be screened from view by a decorative masonry wall, not less than six-feet in height, with a concrete (PCC) floor and apron, and closed with a solid metal gate. Woven wire, or chain link, with slats is specifically prohibited. Note: stick built (wooden framed) structures will not be permitted.
b. Provisions must be included for the storage of recyclable materials, depending upon the quantities involved. They should either be within a separate enclosure, or if the anticipated quantities are sufficient, within a separate building.
DS-15 OUTSIDE STORAGE
Any outdoor storage area approved in conjunction with the primary use shall be screened from adjacent properties and streets. Screening shall consist of a six-foot high concrete, stucco, or decorative block wall. Landscaping and earthen mounding will also be required or other screening methods may also be used, subject to approval by the City Planner. If between adjacent properties or streets and the developing site, six feet or more difference in grade elevation exists at the 11/12/2024 D2 23 of 100
19 property line, the City Planner may
waive or modify this requirement. In no case shall outside storage be allowed in the front 50% of the building site. Outdoor storage is not encouraged within the business park.
DS-16 UTILITY SERVICE
All electrical and communication conduit and conductor service facilities shall be installed underground within the boundaries of any lot or building site proposed in the Specific Plan Area, unless modified by the city engineer. No additional poles for such facilities may be installed to provide service for any such lot or building site, except for required replacement of poles which were installed before the adoption date of this ordinance.
The owner of each such lot or building site shall make the necessary arrangements with each of the serving utilities for the underground installation required hereby.
Transformers, terminal boxes, meter cabinets, pedestals, concealed ducts, and other facilities necessary and appurtenant to such underground utilities and the adjacent street lighting system may be placed aboveground, provided they are screened or made aesthetically unobtrusive. High voltage lines and new substations will be exempt from any underground requirements.
DS-17 ARCHITECTURAL AND DESIGN STANDARDS
a) Metal Buildings
No prefabricated, corrugated metal building systems shall be permitted.
Selective use of metal trim, accent panels, metal panels and other high tech architectural use of metal shall be permitted.
b) Architectural Design Components
Roof overhangs, parapets, eaves, and other architectural components shall be designed to ensure a pleasing and continuous architectural design. Loading doors shall be orientated away from existing residentialstructures. c) Building Materialsand Colors
The building materials and colors shall be of types which are compatible with surrounding residential properties. Earth tones shall be used whenever possible, and highly contrasting colors shall be avoided d) All auxiliary structures, such as trash enclosures and storage buildings, shall be located outside the front yard area or adjacent to the side of the building.
All auxiliary structures and mechanical equipment should be reasonably screened from view by architectural projections, solid walks, fencing, landscaping, or color.
e) Property fencing visible from the public right-of-way must be decorativefencing subject to the approval of the City Planner. Fencing of yard 11/12/2024 D2 24 of 100
20 areas or outside storage areas is permitted with metal or chain link fencing as long as it is visually screened from public street view. f) All exterior lighting shall be low pressure sodium and shielded so that no direct lighting is emitted upwards or is visible from residences surrounding the plan area.
g) Noise generators, such as building mechanical equipment, shall be incorporated within enclosed structures to control noise emission.
DS-18 FIRE SPRINKLERS
Fire sprinklers shall be required in all structures containing 5,000 square feet or more.
DS-19 GRADING REQUIREMENTS
1. Grading Plans shall be submitted as part of the Site Development Plan requirements for all phases of development within the Plan area.
2. All grading plans and work shall comply with Chapter 17.56 of the Development Code.
3. Grading plans shall be prepared by a registered civil engineer and reviewed by a registered soils engineer.
4. No building permits will be issued and no building inspections will be made until rough grading has been approved.
5. All major slopes shall be rounded into existing terrain to produce a contoured transition from cut or fill to natural ground abutting cut or fill surfaces.
6. All grading shall be prepared and maintained to control against erosion.
7. All cut and fill slopes shall be no steeper than 2:1, horizontal to vertical. 11/12/2024 D2 25 of 100
21 CHAPTER IV
ENVIRONMENTAL
MONITORING
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22 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING REGULATIONS
A subsequent EIR (CEQA 15162) was prepared by Keith Companies and published for comment in August 1992. The purpose of the subsequent EIR is to accommodate expedient processing of conforming development projects within the Business ParkSpecific Plan which are found to be consistent with the zoning regulations.
The EIR identifies 10 undeveloped properties each requiring further technical studies such as: biological/paleontological/archeology. Therefore, any development plansubmitted within the undeveloped portions must undergo additional environmental evaluation by providing information determined essential and required in the subsequent EIR. Consult the Specific Plan map to locate the 10 identified sites.
The subsequent EIR executive summary provide an environmental check list for use by the project proponent and City of Vista Planning staff. Many of the listed environmental mitigation measures are addressed by specific conditions contained within this Specific Plan text. However, City staff and project proponent must consult Appendix J entitled MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM when reviewing any application for development. This check off list will determine those projects qualifying for immediate issuance of a permit as opposed to those which will require further technical studies. It must be understood that any development determined not to be consistent with the intent and policies of this plan could be subject to additional environmental study or a subsequent EIR. 11/12/2024 D2 27 of 100
23 CHAPTER V
LAND USE AND
ZONING
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24 LAND USE AND ZONING DESCRIPTION
COMMERCIAL SPECIAL GROUP (USE AREA “A”) The intent and purpose of this group is to provide locations for a combination of professional and business offices and selected commercial activities in support of the needs of the employees and businesses of the park as a primary function.
1. This group shall be designated on the specific plan map as “A”.
2. Permitted Uses:
a. All the uses described in the O-P office professional zone. b. The following listed uses:
1. Apparel Shop
2. Appliance/audiovisual repair shop
3. Art store and galleries
4. Bakery (where bakery goods are sold on premises)
5. Bank
6. Barber shop
7. Beauty parlor
8. Bicycle shop
9. Book store
10. Business college
11. Candy store
12. Cocktail lounge when ancillary to a restaurant
13. Computer store
14. Convenience market
15. Cosmetics, toiletries of perfume
16. Data processing service
17. Day care, Preschools
18. Departmentstore
19. Drug store
20. Dry cleaning (with plant employing not more than 10 people)
21. Engineering, architectural, and planning services
22. Florist
23. Financial institution
24. Government services
25. Health clubs, fitness centers, dance studios, and gymnastics
26. Ice cream/yogurt store
27. Insurancecarriers, agents, brokers, and services
28. Medical and other health services
29. Professional and Business offices
30. Post Office
31. Postal services
32. Restaurants (including sit-down, with or without on-site liquor sales, excluding drive thrus)
33. Schools private and professional
34. Scientific instrument and equipment sales
35. Shoe repair, tailor or dressmaking shop, retail
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25 36. Stationers, cards, and/or gift store
37. Supermarkets-wholesale/retail
38. Other uses not listed which are determined by the City Planner to be consistent with the intent of this group
3. Uses requiringa Special Use Permit
a. Automobile service station, subject to the requirements found in Chapter 18.62 of the Development Code
b. Car wash/detail
c. Sales of alcoholic beverages requiring a Type 20 (“offsale beer and wine”) or Type 21 (“offsale general”) license from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control d. Hotel
e. Drive-thru facilities (limited to restaurants and banks) f. Land uses which are not listed above may be considered under the Special Use Permit process if deemed necessary by the City Planner. The Planning Commission, or on appeal the City Council, in granting the Special use Permit shall find that the use is in every way consistent with the intent and purpose of this use group, the General Plan and will be compatible with the general area.
4. Other Development Regulation
Development regulations and standards for setbacks, height, lot size, parking, open space, building coverage, landscaping and other information can be found in the O-P zone.
5. Prohibitions
The following uses are prohibited in this group:
a. churches
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26 RESEARCH LIGHT INDUSTRIAL AND BUSINESS SUPPORT GROUP (USE AREA “B”) It is the intent and purpose of this group to provide locations for industries and business offices that are primarily engaged in research, product development and testing, developmental laboratories, production, distribution, light industries engaged in manufacturing and correlated business activities that are necessary for the viability of this use group. Included in this group are other secondary support activities that provide goods and services for the convenience of the primary use activity and employees working within the Specific Plan area.
1. This use group shall be designated on the Specific Plan Map as “B”.
2. Permitted Uses, Primary Activities
a. Scientific, research testing, and laboratory facilities, including laboratory facilities engaged in cannabis testing which are licensed pursuant to Chapter
5.98 of the Vista Municipal Code. Failure of a cannabis testing laboratory to operate in accordance with Chapter 5.98 shall also be a violation of this Section.
b. Professional office, excluding medical office or services as primary use c. Commercial services or contractors with indoor storage only, excluding motor vehicle repair
d. The manufacture, processing or assembly of:
1) Aircraft parts
2) Appliances
3) Athletic equipment and sporting goods
4) Automobile parts
5) Bakery goods
6) Beverages
7) Bio-chemical and bio-technical products
8) Boat building and parts (limited to those craft that can be transported legally over a State Highway without a permit).
9) Book binding and publishing
10)Building materials
11)Cabinet shops
12)Candy, confectionery or ice creamproducts
13)Carpets and upholstery
14)Ceramic products
15)Clocks and time pieces
16)Computers and calculators
17)Coils, tubes, semi-conductors
18)Communication, navigation, guidance, and control equipment 19)Cosmetics, toiletries, scents or perfumes including blending 20)Data processing equipment, including computer software 21)Dry goods
22)Electronic devices, machines, tools, instruments and equipment 23)Frozen foods and lockers
24)Fine art supplies and products
25)Food products, processing and packaging
26)Film and photography supplies and equipment
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27 27)Glass studios, staining, edging, beveling and silvering in conjunction with window, mirror and related products
28)Hospital equipment and supplies
29)Hotel and motel supplies
30)Jewelry
31)Metal products
32)Measuring, analyzing and controlling instruments
33)Medical and dental equipment and supplies
34)Motion picture production and allied industries
35)Musical instruments
36)Oceanographic research supplies and equipment
37)Optical goods, equipment and supplies
38)Office furniture, equipment and supplies
39)Packages and packaging
40)Pharmaceutical supplies
41)Photographic equipment and supplies
42)Photographic studios
43)Printing shop and printing materialsand supplies
44)Precision machine shop
45)Pet supplies, equipment, cages and aquariums
46)Radar, infrared and ultraviolet equipment
47)Radiological and X-Ray laboratory
48)Radio equipment and studios
49)Recording equipment and supplies
50)Recording studios
51)Surgical supplies and instruments
52)Tortilla factories
53)Toys
54)Tools and small construction equipment
55)Taxidermist
56)Television equipment and studios
57)Wall paper and interior decorating materials and supplies 58)Wood working products
59)Utensils and dinner ware
60)Textiles, leather goods and clothing
e. Medical cannabis businesses which have been issued a Notice of Completed Registration pursuant to Chapter 5.94 of the Vista Municipal Code. f. Adult use cannabis businesses licensed pursuant to Chapter 5.95 of the Vista Municipal Code.
3. Permitted uses considered ancillary and secondary to the primary use The following uses and activities are permitted as ancillary uses to a primary activity lawfully established on the same site in accordance with this plan. Such uses included:
a. Business services and offices for the support of 2a and 2b above b. Cafeterias and delis provided on premises operation in conjunction with a permitted use
c. Day care centers
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28 d. Employee recreational facilities and play areas operated on-site to serve the primary use
e. Health clubs, racket clubs, tennis courts and other recreational fitness centers
f. Industrial medical and dental clinics
g. Warehousing occupying less than 40% of the gross floor area on a parcel of land in conjunction with the primary use.
h. Tasting rooms for non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverage manufacturers, subject to the City’s standard conditions for Alcoholic Beverage Control licenses; deviations from the City’s standard conditions shall require separate approval of the City Council
i. Cabaret with valid cabaret license for ancillary commercial uses or tasting rooms
j. Retail sales using no more than 25 percent of the tenant floor area
4. Uses permitted subject to the granting of a Special Use Permit 1) Heliports
2) Government facilities and offices
3) Hospitals
4) Museums and libraries not operated for profit
5) Outdoor recreational facilities which benefit the community 6) Public facilities and utilities
7) Co-generation of energy or energy production
8) Warehousing occupying over 40% of the gross floor area on a parcel of land subject to the following conditions:
a) To prevent a possible future use conversion resulting in parking intensification one of the following provisions shall be applied:
1. Sufficient level landscaped areas shall be available on-site for conversion to future parking spaces; or
2. A land use restriction limiting the properties’ use to warehousing only, is irrevocably recorded and the City named a party thereto. 9) Cannabis manufacturing (M - Type 1) uses, not to exceed two and not located within 600 feet of any residentially-zoned property, which are licensed pursuant to Chapter 5.98 of the Vista Municipal Code. An application for a special use permit remains incomplete until all required information and elements are provided, including notice of tentative approval or a notice of pending review pursuant to Chapter 5.98. Failure of a cannabis manufacturer (M – Type 1) to operate in accordance with Chapter 5.98 shall be a violation of this Section.
10) Cannabis distribution uses, not to exceed two and not located within 600 feet of any residentially-zoned property, which are licensed pursuant to Chapter 5.98 of the Vista Municipal Code. An application for a special use permit remains incomplete until all required information and elements are provided, including notice of tentative approval or a notice of pending review pursuant to Chapter 5.98. Failure of a cannabis distributor to operate in accordance with Chapter 5.98 shall be a violation of this Section. 11/12/2024 D2 33 of 100
29 11) Hotels
5. Uses permitted subject to the granting of a Minor Use Permit 1) Commercial recreation facilities, excluding outdoor uses.
6. Uses permitted subject to the approval of an Administrative Temporary Use Permit 1) Outdoor special events associated with an approved tasting room for non-alcoholic or alcoholic beverage manufacturers, subject to the following requirements:
a) No more than twelve (12) outdoor special events per calendar year, per location
b) The outdoor special events shall be reviewed, approved and made subject to the Administrative Temporary Use Permit requirements of Vista Development Code Section 18.76.020 except as otherwise described in these provisions. The Planning Division must receive a complete Administrative Temporary Use Permit application for each event no later than two weeks prior to the date of the outdoor special event c) Each outdoor special event must receive prior approval for any outdoor liquor sales or promotions from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
d) The location of the approved tasting room where the outdoor special event is located shall be no closer than 1,000 feet from the nearest residential use, as measured from door to door
e) Amplified sound may be permitted
f) The approved tasting room shall provide written notification of the event to any businesses located on the property where the outdoor special event is located at least one week prior to the date of the event
7. All uses shall be conducted entirely within a building except outside storage incidental to a primary activity which may be allowed subject to standards contained in Chapter III.
Outdoor storage is not encouraged within the Business Park.
8. Development regulations and standards for setbacks, height, lot size, parking, open space, building coverage, landscaping and other information can be found in Chapter III of this text.
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30 MIXED USE OVERLAY
The intent and purpose of this mixed use overlay is to provide mixed use opportunities to support existing commercial, industrial, and residential land uses within the area. This land use envisions condominiums, restaurants, office, hotel, retail, and other related service uses:
1. The following uses may be established and maintained in the Mixed Use Overlay only if authorized by, constructed pursuant to, and operated in a manner consistent with, a Development Agreement under Government Code §65864 et seq. which is first approved. a. Multi-family dwellings
b. Live/work units
c. Retail sales, general
d. Restaurant, excluding drive through facilities
e. Hotel (but only with an approved special use permit) f. Other uses allowed in the Area B unless the use would be inconsistent with the terms of a Development Agreement.
2. Other Development Regulations
Development regulations and standards can be found in Chapter III of this text, except as modified below.
3. Building Height
a) The height of all residential structuresshall be limited to a maximum of three (3) stories, not to exceed forty-five (45) feet in height, unless additional height is granted under the provisions of a special use permit.
4. Setbacks
a. Buildings and structures shall maintain a minimum setback of 35 feet from W.
San Marcos Boulevard measured from the ultimate street right-of-way line. b. Buildings and structures shall maintain a minimum setback of 25 feet from residentially zoned properties.
5. Parking
Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with the following standards:
a) Residential. All residential uses must provide off street parking at the following minimum ratios:
1. Studio: 1 space per unit plus 0.25 guest space per unit
2. One bedroom: 1 space per unit plus 0.5 guest space per unit
3. Two bedroom: 2 spaces per unit
4. Three or more bedrooms: 2 spaces per unit plus 0.5 space for each additional bedroom above three, plus 0.25 guest space per unit.
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31 b) Commercial. All commercial uses must provide off street parking in accordance with Chapter 18.54 of the Vista Municipal Code.
c) Hotel. 1 parking space per guest room
d) Shared parking. Any required guest parking may be shared parking and may be shared with onsite commercial spaces, upon approval of the Planning Commission at a public hearing.
6. Outdoor Space
A minimum outdoor space of 140 square feet shall be provided per dwelling unit.
Outdoor space may be provided as common open space or private outdoor space. Any required common outdoor space shall have minimum surface level dimensions of 20 feet and a minimum area of 400 square feet. Landscaping and seating shall be permanently integrated into all required outdoor spaces. The developer may pay a fee in lieu of providing the required outdoor space, in the amount of the City’s park fee per dwelling unit. This fee shall be paid in addition to the standard park fee assessed per unit.
7. Laundry Facilities
b) The height of all commercial structuresshallbe limited to a maximum of four (4) stories, not to exceed fifty (50) feet in height, unless additional height is granted under the provisions of a special use permit.
Laundry facilities, consisting of working washer and dryer utility connections, shall be provided within each residential dwelling unit.
8. Storage space, private
A minimum of 90 cubic feet of storage space shall be provided for each residential unit outside such unit unless a private attached garage, serving only the dwelling unit, is provided. Such private storage space shall have a minimum horizontal surface area of 24 square feet and shall be fully enclosed and lockable.
9. Refuse Collection and Storage
Areas designated for the collection of refuse and storage of solid waste shall conform to the provisions of Section 18.58.590 of the Vista Development Code. 11/12/2024 D2 36 of 100
32 COMMERCIAL GENERAL GROUP (USE AREA “C”) The intent and purpose of this group is to provide general commercial support for the Business Park employees, patrons and users. This land use envisions banks, restaurants, service stations, printers, and other related retail service outlets to augment the industrial land uses:
1. This use area shall be designated “C” on the Specific Plan Map.
2. Permitted Uses:
a. All the uses set forth in the C-1 Zone.
b. All the uses permitted in the O-P Office Professional Zone. c. All uses requiring a Minor Use Permit or Special Use Permit in the above referenced zones shall also require equivalent use permits in this use area.
3. Other Development Regulations
Development regulations and standards for setbacks, height, lot size, parking, open space, building coverage, landscaping and other information can be found in Chapter III of this text, except as modified below.
4. Street Setbacks
Except as set forth in Conditions (DS), the following shall apply:
a. Buildings and structures shall maintain the following minimum setback measured fromthe ultimate street right-of-way line.
Melrose Drive: 30 feet
Park Center Drive: 30 feet
b. Special street setbacks are listed on the Specific Plan Map.
5. Landscape Setbacks
a. The minimum landscape separation area between parking lot and street right- of-way shall be:
Melrose Drive: 30 feet
Park Center Drive: 30 feet
6. Prohibited Uses
The following uses are prohibited in this group:
churches
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33 OPEN SPACE (USE AREA “D”) The creation of this Specific Plan envisioned establishing permanent open space areas for the benefit and use of the Business Park owners and employees. The Open Space designation has been placed on land determined to have environmentally sensitive features or which requires resource preservation.
1. All land designated “D” shall be Open Space.
2. Permitted uses:
a) Only those uses found consistent with the adopted Resourc e Management Plan.
b) Only those uses permitted in the “O” (SP) zone shall be allowed; provided, however, all uses normally requiring a Special Use Permit in the “O” (SP) zone, shall not require a Special Use Permit. No other uses shall be permitted. c) The necessary infrastructure to serve the Specific Plan, as well as areas outside the plan.
3. As a condition of approval of any site development plan, plot plan, subdivision, or parcel map or any other permit authorizing land development, Use Area “D” shall be protected by an open space/conservation easement and shall be conveyed to an entity established for the purpose of maintaining and protecting biological resources.
Such entity and conveyance shall be approved by the City Planner and City Attorney.
5. Prior to approval of any Site Development Plan, Plot Plan, Final Map, or other permit authorizing land development on any parcel within this specific plan, those portions of Parcel “D” within that property shall be dedicated in fee as a permanent open space easement. The City shall specify the agency responsible to receive such Open Space easement.
6. Prior to site development approval for any parcel within this specific plan, the parcel owners shall irrevocably commit, through recorded CC&R’s, to participate in the Resource Management Plan and/or Open Space Maintenance District as specified by the City of Vista.
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34 RESIDENTIAL USE GROUP (USE AREA “E”) In recognition of the need to provide a variety of housing to support the industrial and commercial land use available in this Business Park, a portion of land is being designated residential zone.
1. This use area shall be designated “E” on the Specific Plan Map.
2. Permitted Uses:
a. Single-family dwelling – detached/0 lot line.
b. Uses permitted subject to special use permit or minor use permit as listed in the R-1-B Zone.
c. All other uses set forth in the R-1-B Zone.
3. The maximum density shall be one (1) dwelling unit for each five-thousand (5,000) square feet of gross land area (computed to centerline of abutting street) provided that the territory of the street is to be dedicated fromthe project area.
4. In accordance with Section 18.58.030 of the Development Code, three (3) dwelling levels will be permitted where the average slope of this lot is greater than 7:1.
5. Front Yard setback: Buildings or structures shall be located no closer than twenty (20) feet from an adjacent public street and no closer than ten (10) feet from an adjacent private street. Garage and carport structures shall be located no closer than ten (10) feet from an adjacent public street, except where access faces the street, in which case a 20-foot setback must be observed, and zero (0) feet from an adjacent private driveway.
6. Private Access Width: Private streets with no parking allowed on either side shall have a minimum improved width of twenty-four (24) feet and be designated as a fire lane:
otherwise, minimum access width shall be thirty (30) feet. Private streets with parallel parking permitted on one side shall have a minimum improved width of thirty-two (32) feet. Private streets with parallel parking permitted on both sides shall have a minimum improved width of thirty-six (36) feet.
7. Private driveways serving covered parking (garages or carports) on both sides of the access aisle shall maintain a minimum (32) feet measured between structures at ground level.
8. Prohibited Uses: The following uses are prohibited in this group:
a. churches.
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35 INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL GROUP (USE AREA “F”) Use Area “F” is hereby established and designated on the Specific Plan Map. This use area is designated Industrial Commercial Group. This use area shall permit a mixture of industrial and/or commercial uses as set forth in Areas “A,” “B,” and “C” of this Specific Plan.
Development regulations governing setbacks, building height, lot size, open space, building coverage, landscaping, screening, refuse collection, outside storage, utility service, architecture, fire sprinklers, and grading shall comply with the provisions of Chapter III of the Vista Business Park Specific Plan.
Parking shall be governed by the provisions of Section DS-6 of the Vista Business Park Specific Plan. Any land uses not included in Section DS-6 shall comply with the parking provisions of the Development Code, Chapter 18.54.
Signage shall be governed by the provisions of Chapter 18.52 of the Vista Development Code dependent upon the land use proposed or as designated by an approved Comprehensive Sign Program. This requirement shall supersede DS10 through DS12 found in this text. 11/12/2024 D2 40 of 100
36 CHAPTER VI
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
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37 PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND DEVELOPMENT PROCESSING
PLAN REQUIREMENTS
The following provisions are required in order to fulfill the objectives, policies, and regulations of this Specific Plan:
1. The principle means of implementing this Plan are through the Subdivision and Site Plan processes. All development, including the issuance of building permits and grading permits shall follow the adoption of the appropriate Site Plan as described in the next section. Site Plan is being defined to describe a Plot Plan or Site Development Plan as same is described by the appropriate development code.
2. A Landscape Maintenance District has been established to maintain landscaped areas and to preserve and maintain open space (area “D”). The “Resource Management Plan”, dated October, 1987 will direct the improvements and maintenance programming.
3. Mitigation measures as specified in the Subsequent Environmental Impact Report shall be implemented to fulfill the requirements of this Specific Plan. When approving a Subdivision Map, Parcel Map, Site Development Plan or other discretionary permit, as a part of the environmental review process, the City shall consider the contents of the existing final EIR and any supplement thereto to determine if said development falls within the scope of the EIR. If not, the EIR must be supplemented prior to project approval in accordance with Article XXVII of the CEQA Guidelines.
DEVELOPMENT PROCESSING
A. The processing of Plot Plans shall include the following plan components and procedures:
1. Plot Plans shall be prepared for each increment of development, project, or planning area and approved prior to development. The following projects may be exempted from the Plot Plan process if located within Use Area B and determined by the City Planner to be architecturally compatible with the existing building(s) on the site:
a. Additions to existing buildings of 10,000 square feet or 10 percent of the floor area of the building, whichever is less
b. Accessory structures of 5,000 square feet or less
c. Storage mezzanine additions with adequate parking
d. Tenant improvements with adequate parking
2. The boundaries of each site shall be precisely determined through boundary adjustments, lot lines created by subdivision maps, or other methods acceptable to the City.
3. Plot Plans shall conform to and be consistent with this Specific Plan, particularly Chapters III and IV.
4. Plot Plans shall include the location of buildings, their bulk and height, and specific intended use, and all other information necessary to meet the requirements of Chapters III and IV.
5. Building elevations from all view points shall accompany Plot Plans. 11/12/2024 D2 42 of 100
38 6. Plot Plans shall include parking, roadway, and landscaping areas.
7. Landscaping plans shall accompany the Plot Plan.
8. A comprehensive sign program, including locations, size, height, and nature of all signage shall be included with the Plot Plan
9. Complete grading plans shall accompany the Plot Plan.
B. Processing of subdivisions shall be accomplished according to the following guidelines:
1. The Zoning Administrator shallbe designated the “Advisory Agency”, as defined by Section 66415 of the State Government Code. In this capacity, the Zoning Administrator shall be authorized to approve or deny all Tentative Subdivision Maps and Tentative Parcel Maps within the North County Industrial Specific Plan.
2. Tentative Parcel Maps shall be processed in accordance with Article VI of the City Subdivision Ordinance.
3. At the discretion of the City, certain types of subdivision, proposed for more than four lots, may be processed through the minor subdivision process. The following situations may allow the subdivision to be processed as a Tentative Parcel Map:
a) The land before division contains less than five acres, each parcel created by the division abuts upon a maintained public street or highway and no dedications or improvements are required by the legislative body, or:
b) Each parcel created by the division has a gross area of 20 acres or more and has approved access to a maintainedpublic street or highway, or; c) The land consists of a parcel or parcels of land having approved access to a public street or highway which comprises part of a tract of land zoned for industrial or commercial development, and which has the approval of the governing body as to street alignments and widths, or:
d) Each parcel created by the division has a gross area not less than 40 acres or is not less than a quarter of a section.
Documentation of conformance with any of the above exceptions shall be required concurrent with any proposal for a Tentative Parcel map of more than four lots.
Said documentation shall be provided by a Registered Civil Engineer.
4. Tentative Subdivision Maps shall be processed in accordance with Article III of the Subdivision Ordinance, unless modified by the Specific Plan. A public hearing will be required prior to the Zoning Administrator’s decision on a Tentative Subdivision Map. The final Subdivision Map approval can only by granted by the City Council.
5. Any subdivision application shall demonstrate conformance with Chapter V of this Specific Plan, relative to plan implementation.
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39 C. Site Plan Submittal and Processing Procedure
The following steps are required for the submittal of Site Plans:
Presubmittal Meeting
1. The applicant should meet with the Planning Staff to discuss the proposed project.
This step is available to save the applicant and the Planning Staff time and to avoid major re-drafting of plans. Instructions for scheduling a pre-application conference can be obtained at the permit center.
2. Important Notice
The applicant should consult with the Building, Public Works, Fire Departments, and Vista Irrigation District for their requirements for dedication of public streets necessary improvements or guarantees, fire hydrants, sewer line extensions, special construction requirements, etc.
3. Official Submittal
The applicant submits all required documents, plans, fees, application, and computations in accordance with the sited development plan instructions. All required items must be submitted and all information as required by the instruction sheets must be included on the plans or the project will not be accepted.
4. Environmental Review
Further environmental review may be required on those partially cleared or undeveloped sites as defined in the subsequent EIR prepared in 1992 and on file at the City of Vista.
5. Site Plan Review
The Planning Division distributes copies of the Site Plan to Vista’s Planning Division, Building Dept., Fire Dept., Sanitation and Parks and Recreation: also to San Diego Gas & Electric Company (SDG&E), Vista Irrigation District (VID) and Vista Unified School District (VUSD). The requirements and comments of these departments and various agencies will be incorporated in the letter of Approval or Denial. When all comments are received by the Planning Staff, the staff will review the proposal and formulate a decision.
6. Tentative Approval
After the Site Plan has gone through a detailed review by the Planning Staff, the project will be conditionally approved or disapproved.
7. Conditional Approval
The conditional approval letter will reflect conditions and revisions that will be 11/12/2024 D2 44 of 100
40 necessary prior to final approval of the Site Plan.
8. Disapproval
The disapproval letter will reflect the reasons for disapproval. In the event that a Site Plan is disapproved it will be the responsibility of the applicant to schedule a meeting with the Planning Staff to resolve the deficiencies in the disapproved plan.
A disapproved plan may be resubmitted after revisions are incorporated and corrections made to all deficient items. A detailed review will again take place and a conditional approval, final approval, or disapproval will be mailed to the applicant.
ADEQUATE FACILITIES PROVISION
Intent and Purpose of this provision is to assure that coordinated and timely public infrastructure improvements occur commensurate with private property development and to:
1. Provide adequate vehicular access to a major arterial street serving industrial development and to minimize traffic impacts on adjacent residential areas.
2. Encourage the orderly extension of infrastructure, thus ensuring effective industrial development.
3. Ensure that proper facilities are available or are being provided as a condition of development and that all property owners are impacted with no more nor no less than their fair share for the facility infrastructure.
4. Encourage expeditious development of clean industrial projects to provide employment and economic benefits to the community.
5. Encourage and foster the continued interim agricultural uses until such industrial clients are available.
IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURES
These conditions are applicable to all properties within the Specific Plan boundaries, but will also be applied to properties outside the Specific Plan if these properties benefit from the improvements in question.
1. All properties within the Specific Plan are required to construct major infrastructure, as determined necessary to serve development, including facilities outside the plan boundary, as specified by the City Engineer and provisions in this plan.
2. Required major infrastructure, as in accordance with No. 1 above, may qualify for reimbursement pursuant to Ordinance No. 81-56 or successor ordinances, if amended, subject to City Council approval.
3. Any property benefitting from existing constructed infrastructure may be required to pay a reimbursement for the “fair share” of construction cost, prior to development of such property.
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41 4. Required construction of major infrastructure pursuant to this Specific Plan may occur by any of the following methods or combinations thereof:
a. Participation in an improvement district or project which will construct the required infrastructure.
5. b. Payment in full for the “fair share” of construction cost as determined to be an equitable assessment for benefits received. Such cost share may be established pursuant to Ordinance No. 81-56 or successor ordinances, if amended. c. Payment for the construction of major required infrastructure where the cost exceeds the individual properties equitable assessment for benefit received and the project sponsor is willing to execute as a reimbursement agreement providing that subsequent development of other benefitting properties shall be obligated to pay their assessment prior to using such facilities. d. Entering into a development agreement with the City to form a mutually acceptable method to satisfy the conditions of public service provision using either combinations of the above alternatives and/or different innovations that may be suitable for this purpose.
ZONE BOUNDARY INTERPRETATION
The precise location of the land use boundaries shown on the Specific Plan Map shall be set as a result of parcel map boundary adjustment, or subdivisions. Zone boundary lines shall be set using the following criteria:
1. Topography
2. Natural resources as identified in the Environmental Impact Report
3. A review of the applicable Site Development Plans and grading plans
4. The public road system locations determined to best serve future land uses
5. Such other criteria as deemed appropriate
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42 CHAPTER VII
PLAN AMENDMENT
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43 AMENDMENTS TO THE SPECIFIC PLAN
Approval of this Specific Plan indicates acceptance by the City Council of a general framework and specific development standards for this project. It is anticipated that certain Amendments to the Specific Plan (SPA’s) text and exhibits may be necessary during the life of the project.
Such SPA’s shall occur in accordance with the specific process described in this section. These SPA’s should they occur, are divided into two categories which are described below. All proposed SPA’s must be consistent with the General Plan and the general objectives of this Specific Plan. In addition, proposed SPA’s shall be addressed by the Amendment criteria described below:
Specific Plan Amendments
1. Administrative SPA ’s.
Upon determination by the City Planner, certain minor changes to the Specific Plan text or map may not require formal amendments (ie. Approval through a public hearing). The City Planner has the authority to approve modification to the Specific plan as follows:
a. Expansions or reductions of any of the project areas designation up to 10% in area providing the land use intensity, within any given sub-area, does not increase more than 15%.
b. Realignment or modifications of internal streets servicing the project if also approved by the City Engineer.
c. Minor modification of design features such as paving treatments, fencing, lighting, entry treatments and landscape treatments may also be approved. d. All administrative SPA’s shall be processed concurrently with a Plot Plan, which shall formally establish the ultimate boundaries.
2. Formal SPA ’s.
All Specific Plan changes which do not meet the criteria of an administrative SPA noted above shall be deemed to require a formal SPA of this Specific Plan. All formal Specific Plan Amendments shall be reviewed for approval by the Planning Commission and City Council.
3. Amendment Criteria.
Whether classified as administrative or formal SPA’s, all such changes to the Specific Plan shall reflect the comprehensive analysiswhich has been undertaken in the adoption of the Specific Plan and shall require additional environmental review. As a condition of consideration for any amendment to the Specific Plan it shall be the applicant’s responsibility to:
a. Demonstrate that the proposed amendment meets the goals and objectives of the Specific Plan and the General Plan.
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44 b. Update any Specific Plan technical studies and/or provide additional environmental studies, upon determination of the Planning Director or City Engineer, and incorporate all mitigation measures into the project design. c. Provide a revised Specific Plan text and map, where relevant, which reflects the amendment requested.
11/12/2024 D2 49 of 100
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1 S P E C I F I C P L A N 14
General Conditions
1. The conditions of this section apply to all portions of the Specific Plan.
2. General Plan Designation: Industrial General.
3. Reserved
4. All parcels of land created shall have direct access to a public street shown on The Specific Plan, or to a public street which is approved by a subdivision map or parcel map.
5. No subdivision map or parcel map shall be approved unless public streets abutting each lot in the subdivision or parcel map are dedicated to at least half of the street width plus ten feet and improvements are constructed or guaranteed across the frontage of said lots, including improvements necessary to connect said abutting street to an existing public street system.
6. No building permit for any lot or building site shall be issued until the public street serving such lot or building site are dedicated and improved or guaranteed to standards of the City of Vista.
7. As a part of the approval of any subdivision or parcel map or prior to building permit approval, if the project does not include a subdivision or parcel map, all drainage easements required to accommodate drainage from the project shall be dedicated to the City and improvements required therein, as required by the City Engineer to serve the project, shall be installed or guaranteed at the option of the City.
8. Whenever in these conditions the term “guarantee” is used with respect to improvements, such term shall be deemed to mean with respect to major subdivisions an improvement security as defined in Section 66499 of the Subdivision Map Act, and with respect to minor subdivisions or building permit approval, if the project does not include a subdivision or parcel map, an improvement security as described in Section 17.76.240 of the Vista Development Code.
9. Street widths and improvements as shown on the Specific Plan shall be in accordance with the City of Vista Standards.
10. Building setbacks adjacent to all streets shown on the Specific Plan and/or all streets dedicated or offered for dedication shall be measured from the ultimate street centerline.
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EXHIBIT 3
2 11. Open Space areas shown are consistent with areas shown on the City of Vista General Plan. Those areas designated as “Open Space” on the map of the Specific Plan shall be zoned “0” or dedicated by an open space easement, irrevocable except by consent of the City, prior to the issuance of building permit or final subdivision map or parcel map approval for property adjacent to said “Open Space.” The City may grant public access and may allow access facilities, such as bridge crossings, to serve any parcels of land.
12. All open space required by the Specific Plan conditions to be zoned “0” or dedicated by open space easement shall be defined by legal description and shown on all approved maps and drawings. All land designated as open space pursuant to these conditions, or otherwise, shall qualify for consideration of the park fee credit pursuant to Chapter 17.32 of the Vista Development Code to the extent such credit is granted by such section or its successors.
13. Reserved
14. The Planning Commission, or the City Council on appeal, may impose reasonable conditions in approving the project in order to satisfy City standards. If the project cannot, in the opinion of the Planning Commission or City Council, be conditioned in such manner as to fulfill the standards, it shall be disapproved.
15. The review process provided by the Specific Plan No. 14 shall not apply to any of the following:
a) Temporary Signs
b) Directional Signs
c) Real Estate Signs
d) Political Signs
e) Residential Signs
f) Construction project Signs
g) Subdivision Signs
16. Unless otherwise exempted or modified herein, all provisions of the Vista Municipal Code and Development Code shall apply to this Specific Plan.
17. PARKING
Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with the following standards:
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3 a) General 1 for each 750 sq. ft. gross floor area plus those that Manufacturing may be required for areas devoted to other uses; e.g., office or retail sales.
b) Research and 1 for each 300 sq. ft. gross floor area plus those that Development may be required for areas devoted to other uses; e.g., office or retail sales.
c) Warehouse and 1 for each 1,000 sq. ft. gross floor area for first 20,000 Wholesale sq. ft. plus 1 for each 2,000 sq. ft. second 20,000 sq.
Establishment ft. plus 1 for each 4,000 sq. ft. in excess of initial 40,000 sq. ft. plus those that may be required for areas devoted to other uses; e.g., office or retail sales.
d) A reduction in required parking of up to fifteen (15) percent may be granted by the City Planner, subject to the approval of a detailed transportation management plan to be provided by the developer. This plan may include, but is not limited to, provisions for mass transit, carpooling, van-pools, bicycles, staggered work hours, etc. Parking reductions may be granted by the Zoning Administrator for indoor recreational uses, in accordance with Section
18.54.050 of the Development Code.
e) Parking standards not specifically addressed herein shall comply with the applicable provisions of Title 18 of the City Development Code.
NOTE: The definitions section of title 18 of the City Development code should be consulted regarding manufacturing and research and development activities for a definition of said terms.
18. No alcohol sales are permitted within the specific plan area, with the exception of sales approved as ancillary to an alcoholic beverage manufacturing operation. Such ancillary sales area shall be no greater than 20 percent of the gross floor area of the tenant space.
19. The City Council shall by resolution set forth fee formulas intended to recover those costs outlaid by the City of Vista, as well as costs associated with costs of public facilities within the Specific Plan. Said resolution may apply said fees to all or a portion of the Specific Plan.
20. Reserved
AREA “A”
A-1 The conditions of this section apply only to Area “A” as shown on the Specific Plan map.
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4 A-2 The zoning of Area “A” is M-1.
A-3 Permitted uses:
a) In addition to those uses permitted in the M-1 zone per City of Vista Development Code, the following uses are permitted:
1) Outdoor storage of equipment and materials associated with a permitted primary use
2) Contractor’s storage yard
3) Retail sales as accessory or secondary to a permitted primary use, provided such sales area does not exceed 20 percent of the gross floor area of the building, or 5,000 square feet, whichever is less 4) Deli or cafe, not to exceed 30 seats
b) In addition to those uses permitted in the M-1 zone per City of Vista Development Code, the following uses may be authorized in Area “A” upon the issuance of a Special Use Permit:
1) Auto wrecking/salvage yard
2) Re-cycling facility
3) Towing with outside vehicle storage
4) Recreational vehicle storage, including boats, off road vehicles (ORVs), campers, travel trailers, motor homes (house cars), and similar vehicles, but excluding mobile homes
c) In addition to those uses permitted in the M-1 zone per City of Vista Development Code, the following uses may be authorized in Area “A” upon the issuance of a Minor Use Permit:
1) Commercial recreation facilities, excluding outdoor uses 2) Studios for instruction, including dance, martial arts, yoga and other similar activities, as determined by the City Planner
d) Height limit: 35 feet or two stories, whichever is the lesser, unless a greater height is approved through the issuance of a Special Use Permit. e) Yards: Front, side and rear yards shall be consistent with those prescribed for the M-1 zone.
f) Area: every lot and building site shall have a minimum area of ½ acre. g) Width: Every lot shall have a minimum width of 100 feet measured at the front setback line.
h) All Site Development Plans shall be reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission. Such review shall include requirements for architectural 11/12/2024 D2 54 of 100
5 compatibility with surrounding areas and provision of visual screening of any outdoor storage from neighboring residential or industrial park property or from public streets not exclusively used for industrial purposes. i) Commercial uses listed in Chapters 18.38, 18.40, and 18.42 of the Development Code are not permitted, with the exception of the ancillary uses defined herein, and an ancillary convenience store within the fuel station at 1321 Distribution Way.
AREA “B”
B-1 The conditions of this section apply only to Area “B” as shown on the Specific Plan map.
B-2 The zoning of Area “B” is I-P.
B-3 Permitted uses:
a) Uses are limited to permitted uses in the IP zone per Chapter 18.46 of the Development Code.
b) Area “B” is presently developed with a trucking company office, maintenance buildings and open storage yard (Lynch Trucking Company). This facility was authorized and constructed in accordance with City of Vista site Development Plan No. 79-6 and enjoys the status of a legal conforming use. 11/12/2024 D2 55 of 100
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18.52 (1) (Vista 02/08/22)
Chapter 18.52
Signs on Private Property
Sections:
18.52.010 Title, Scope, Purpose, Obligation, Prior Study
18.52.020 Definitions
18.52.030 Interests Served
18.52.040 Neutral Administration
18.52.050 General Regulations
18.52.060 Regulations by Sign Type
18.52.070 Temporary Signs
18.52.080 Signs on City Property
18.52.090 Mobile Billboards – Prohibited
18.52.100 Non-Permitted Excess Signage - Prohibited
18.52.110 Permit Procedures
18.52.120 Signs Not Requiring a Sign Permit
18.52.130 Enforcement
18.52.140 Discontinued and Illegal Signs - Nuisance
18.52.150 Legal Nonconforming Signs and Abatement Process
18.52.160 Severability
Section 18.52.010 Title, Scope, Purpose, Obligation, Prior Study A. Title. This chapter shall be known as the “Signs on Private Property Ordinance.” B. Scope. This chapter regulates signs, as defined herein, which are within the legal corporate limits of the city, but not on City property. Signs on City property and the public right-of-way are controlled by Chapter 12.20. This chapter does not regulate signs used in conjunction with parades, demonstrations and public assemblies; which, instead, are governed by Chapter 12.12 (Permits for Block Parties and Street Events) and Chapter 12.13 (Permits for Park Events.)
C. Obligation to Satisfy Other Legal Requirements. This chapter does not modify state or federal laws pertaining to the regulation or display of signs. In addition to satisfying the minimum standards set forth in this chapter, the erection, display, and maintenance of any sign must also satisfy all applicable requirements imposed by other statutes, laws, ordinances and regulations, and codes, including without limitation, the building code, plumbing code, grading code, the electrical code, and storm water regulations.
D. Easements and Covenants. This chapter does not abrogate, override, limit, modify, or nullify any easements, covenants, leases or other existing private agreements that are more restrictive than this chapter.
E. Special Events. This chapter does not regulate signs that are displayed as part of a special event operating under a permit issued pursuant to Chapters 12.12 (Permits for Block Parties and Street Events) or 12.13 of the Vista Municipal Code (Permits for Park Events).
F. Prior Study. Prior to the adoption of this ordinance amending Chapter 18.52, the City of Vista conducted an inventory of all sign displays within the city that were legal, illegal, or non-conforming, under the then-existing law, in accordance with Section 5491.1 of the California Business and Professions Code. Having considered that study at the public hearing during which this ordinance was adopted, the City Council has determined that there is a need for the ordinance to take effect in a manner to apply to all existing signs within the city.
Prior Code Appendix A1800; Ord. No. 92-25, Amended, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Amended, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10; Ord. No. 2011-3, Amended 5/24/11) 11/12/2024 D2 57 of 100
EXHIBIT 4
18.52 (2) (Vista 02/08/22)
Section 18.52.020 Definitions
Advertising message” means any visual image displayed for the purpose of attracting attention of the public or potential customers, or communicating a commercial or noncommercial message or depiction.
Animated sign (blinking, flashing)” means a sign which includes a component presenting action or motion, including, without limitation, blinking, flashing, color changes, or wind-actuated motions. Excluded from the definition, are signs where the copy changes not more than once every 24 hours.
Animated window sign” means an electronic, animated sign placed in on the interior-side of a window within a building.
Awning” means a temporary shelter supported from the exterior wall of a building over a door or window opening.
Awning sign” means any sign painted on, attached to, or constructed on an awning or the valance thereof.
Balloon” or “inflatable sign” means a bag or other container of any shape or size, made of thin rubber or other light material, inflated with air or gas. The term balloon does not include: (1) inflatable objects displayed on residential properties for purposes of temporary celebration, but the term does include inflatable objects displayed on non-residential properties; or (2) handheld inflatable objects of not more than two cubic feet.
Banner” means any plastic, vinyl, fabric, paper, or similar material, other than a flag or pennant, used to advertise goods, services, or events, garner attention or communicate, which is temporarily affixed to real property in a location where it is visible to the public from outside the building or structure.
Billboard” or “off-site sign” or “off-premises sign” means a permanent structure sign in a fixed location which meets any one or more of the following criteria: (1) it is intended to be used for, or is actually used for the display of general advertising or general advertising for hire; (2) it is used for the display of commercial advertising messages which pertain to products and/or services which are offered at a different location, also known as “off-site commercial” messages; (3) it constitutes a separate principal use of the property, in contrast to an auxiliary, accessory or appurtenant use of the principal use of the property; (4) it functions as a profit center separate from another use on the same or an adjacent parcel. Bus benches with advertising are not included within this definition.
Blade sign” or “projecting sign” means a sign
which projects more than 12 inches from the face of an
exterior building wall or facade and which uses the building wall as its primary source of support.
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18.52 (3) (Vista 02/08/22)
Building complex” means a building or group of buildings on one or more lots or building sites containing two to four commercial or industrial tenant spaces which share a common parking area. (See “Center” for five or more tenants.) Building face and/or frontage” means the area
of the front building elevation in which the
establishment is located and which faces a
publicly dedicated street, private street, or parking
lot excluding driveways and aisles. If more than
one establishment is located in a single building,
then such area shall be limited to that portion
which is occupied by each individual
establishment.
Canopy” means a permanent roofed structure that
provides shelter, and that projects from a building wall or is supported by columns, such as false mansards, projecting building facade facings, service station pump island shelters, and other architectural features which project from a building wall above a height of eight feet.
Canopy sign” means a sign painted on, attached to,
or constructed on a canopy.
Center” means a development which includes five or
more tenant spaces in which businesses and structures are designed as an architecturally integrated and interrelated development. Such design is independent of the number of structures, lots, or parcels making up the center. ( See “Building Complex” for two to four tenants.)
City property” means land or other property in which the City or a city-related entity holds a present right of possession and control including, without limitation, by lease, city road easements, and all public rights of way, regardless of ownership.
City-related entity” means any governmental entity with a legislative body comprised of the membership of the Vista City Council, including, without limitation, the Community Development Commission of the City of Vista and the Buena Sanitation District.
Commercial copy” means words or symbols which propose, solicit, advertise, or promote a business or economic transaction or which concern primarily the economic interests of the sign sponsor and/or intended audience.
Comprehensive sign program” means a form of approval required for certain developments described in Section 18.52.050 which must be obtained prior to erecting certain signs and which is intended to integrate signs with building and landscaping design in order to achieve visually thematic and architectural unity for commercial, industrial, and multi-family residential projects.
Construction project sign” means a temporary sign on real property on which construction of new improvements is occurring.
Copy” means any words, letters, numbers, figures, logos, designs or other symbolic representations incorporated into a sign.
Designated BID Areas” means those portions of the Central Vista Downtown Business Improvement District designed in Exhibit A where portable signs may be placed in accordance with this Chapter.
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18.52 (4) (Vista 02/08/22)
Directional sign” means on -site signs or signs within an area subject to a comprehensive sign program designed to guide or direct pedestrian or vehicular traffic and which contain no matter specifying product or services.
Discontinued sign” means any sign which for a period of six continuous months: (1) has not been put to an active use; or (2) has not advertised an ongoing establishment; or (3) advertises a use or service which has been discontinued; or (4) was used to advertise an establishment or use at premises which are vacant; or (5) which otherwise constitutes an abandoned sign under the Outdoor Advertising Act (California Business and Professions Code Sections 5200 et seq); or (6) which otherwise constitutes an abandoned sign under the On- Premises Sign Act (California Business and Professions Code Sections 5490 et seq).
Display face” means that portion of a sign upon which is mounted, attached or presented the visually communicative image.
Drive-thru services menu board” means a permanent sign that is exclusively oriented to those using the drive-thru lane for a restaurant or other establishment which advertises only food items or services directly sold or provided at the premises.
Election period” means a period commencing 35 days prior to, and ending five days following, an election open to registered voters within the City of Vista.
Electronic message board” or “digital display” means a permanent sign that can be programmed to display different electronic messages or images. The term includes a sign which, for all or part of its display area, uses digital technology, such as LED (light emitting diodes), LCD (liquid crystal display), plasma display, or projected images, often by automatic or remote control. The term also includes functionally equivalent technologies.
Establishment” means a use of land, other than long term residential, which involves structures subject to a building permit and the customary presence of human beings at least ten hours per week. Residential uses, automated uses are not within this definition. By way of example and not limitation, the term includes stores, factories, warehouses, schools, libraries, churches, workshops, hospitals, offices, theaters, hotels and motels and "bed and breakfast" establishments offering transient occupancy, but does not include power transformers, broadcasting towers, unattended automated teller machines, vending machines, agricultural or long term residential uses.
Flag” means a cloth or sheet of material, other than a pennant, often rectangular, carrying a distinctive design and used as an emblem, attached at one end to a pole or staff in a manner which allows it to flow freely in the wind.
General advertising” means the business or enterprise of making a sign display face available to a variety of advertisers, whether they be businesses or other establishments. This definition applies even when the display face is donated or made available at a reduced rate or for “in kind” consideration. Also known as “general advertising for hire.” General advertising is in contrast to self-promotion advertising.
Halo-lit sign” means a sign where light is emitted from the back of letters and/or logos onto a surface thereby creating a halo effect around the sign.
Hand held commercial” or “personally-attended commercial” means a sign which conveys a commercial message and is held by, physically controlled by, attached to, or mounted on a person or an animal. Visible images which are displayed as part of personal apparel, and other aspects of personal appearance, shall not be considered signage for purposes of this Chapter.
Hand held commercial sign display standards” is defined in Section 18.52.080.
Hand held noncommercial” or “personally-attended noncommercial” means a sign which conveys a noncommercial message and is held by, physically controlled by, attached to, or mounted on a person or an animal.” Visible images which are displayed as part of personal apparel and other aspects of personal appearance shall not be considered as signage for purposes of this Chapter.
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18.52 (5) (Vista 02/08/22)
Historic Marquee Sign” means a marquee sign located at either 420 Vista Village Drive or 2011 W. Vista Way which has been maintained as an on-premises sign, from a date prior to the adoption of Ordinance No. 92-25 (November 17, 1992), without physical change, except for minor maintenance required to preserve the sign in its original state. Any sign qualifying as a historic marquee sign shall immediately and permanently lose its status as a historic marquee sign if the sign is expanded, modified, or temporarily, intermittently or otherwise operated, for any time, as a billboard, an off-premises sign, or an off-site sign.
Housing complex sign” means a sign, other than a residential sign or a real estate sign, at an apartment building, mobile home park, condominium subdivision, or planned unit development.
Illegal sign” means a sign which: (1) was erected without first complying with all ordinances, statutes and regulations in effect at the time of its construction and execution or use, or (2) became nonconforming after an enactment or amendment of an ordinance or statute which has an expired amortization period; or (3) is a danger to the public or is otherwise unsafe; or (4) is a traffic hazard; or (5) is an illegal sign under either the Outdoor Advertising Act California Business and Professions Code Sections 5200 et seq); or the On-Premises Sign Act California Business and Professions Code Sections 5490 et seq).
Illuminated sign” means a sign in which a source of light is used in order to make the message understandable during all hours or certain hours of the day, including internally and externally lighted signs and glowing or radiating signs.
Marquee sign” means a sign which accommodates interchangeable copy and: (1) is mounted on an outside permanent roofed structure projecting over public or private sidewalks or rights-of-way which is attached to and supported by a building; or (2) is a monument sign or a pole sign-generally that does not exceed a height of six feet.
Mobile billboard” means any wheeled vehicle used primarily for the display of general advertising or general advertising for hire, by means of traversing upon any public street or parking on any public street in a manner that the advertising image(s) on the vehicle are visible from any portion of the public right-of-way. Also known as “sign truck” or “billboard truck.” This definition does not apply to vehicles displaying images related to the same business or establishment of which the vehicle is an operating instrument, such as, by way of example and not limitation, an advertisement for a grocery store on a truck delivering merchandise to that store. Also, it does not apply to vehicles which are on the public road for the primary purpose of transportation, such as taxis and buses, even if such vehicles display general advertising.
Monument sign” means a sign which is placed
directly upon the ground and does not exceed a height of six feet.
Neon Sign” means a sign which incorporates
lighted neon tubes or other fluorescing gas as all or a portion of the advertising message.
Noncommercial message” means a message displayed on a sign which expresses an idea or point of view on a topic of public debate and concern, including politics, religion, education, art, science, history, and social issues.
Noncommercial sign” means a sign displaying a noncommercial message. 11/12/2024 D2 61 of 100
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Non-communicative aspects” means those characteristics of a sign which do not present a communicative visual image to the public, such as size, height, setback, structural strength or weight, illumination method, density, orientation, etc.
Nonconforming sign” means a sign, other than an illegal sign, which was lawfully erected with permits and in conformity with all then-applicable laws, ordinances, and regulations, but which no longer conforms to one or more applicable law, ordinance, or regulation.
On-site sign” or “on-premises sign” means a sign displaying a commercial message which directs attention to a commercial or industrial occupancy, establishment, commodity, good, product, service or other commercial or industrial activity conducted, sold or offered or expected to be offered in the near future upon the site where the sign is maintained. The on- site/off-site distinction applies only to commercial message signs. For purposes of this chapter, all signs with noncommercial speech messages shall be deemed to be “on-site,” regardless of location. On-site signs do not include signs erected by the outdoor advertising industry in the conduct of outdoor advertising business, or used as general advertising for hire. Construction signs are considered on-site when the displayed message pertains to the construction project and/or the anticipated future use.
Pennant” means a tapering, usually triangular or “swallow-tail” device made of flexible material mounted on a lead or cable.
Personally attended” means that a person is physically present within five feet of the sign at all times.
Pole sign” means a sign which is wholly
supported by one or more columns or poles set into the
ground.
Portable sign” means any sign, not personally held or attended, which can be easily moved from place to place which is not permanently affixed to the ground or to a building. Hand held signs are not within this definition.
Project noticing – project on-site sign” means public notice signs that are required to be placed on a project site due to submittal of a discretionary permit application to the City.
These types of signs do not require a sign permit.
Real estate sign - commercial” means a temporary sign located on a property for sale or lease: (1) which provides information regarding the sale, lease, or other proposed economic transaction of such property; and (2) is zoned for commercial use, industrial use, or which is zoned for or developed with a multiple dwelling.
Real estate sign - general” means a temporary sign providing information about the sale, lease or other proposed economic transaction of the property upon which it is located; by way of example, but not limitation, all signs described in Civil Code Section 713, are within this definition. It does not include signs displaying information about short-term occupancy, such as hotel motel “bed and breakfast” occupancy or prices.
Regular canopy sign” means a canopy sign other than an under canopy sign. 11/12/2024 D2 62 of 100
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Residential sign” means a sign, other than a real estate sign, located on property used for residential purposes ( other than transient occupancy) and located within an area controlled by an individual residential unit.
Roof sign” means a sign mounted upon or above a roof or parapet of a building or structure and which is wholly or partially supported by said building or structure. A sign which does not project above the roof line or roof edge may be considered a wall sign if it meets the criteria specified in the definition of a wall sign.
Rotating sign” means a sign which turns any amount in any direction.
Sign” means any visually communicative image on display, visible from an area open to the public which is outside of a structure. Such images may consist of lettering, text, graphics, and humans and animals in distinctive garb or decoration; however, notwithstanding the generality of the foregoing, the following are not within the definition of sign:
1. Official notices issued by any court or public body or officer.
2. Notices posted by any public officer in performance of a public duty or by any person in giving legal notice (except for project noticing/project on-site signs – see Sign Table 18.52.060A, which must comply with this chapter).
3. Directional warning or information structures required by or authorized by law or by federal, state, or local authority.
4. A structure erected near a city, county, or neighborhood boundary which contains information regarding the name of said jurisdiction or area, or civic, fraternal, or religious organizations located therein.
5. Interior signs. Signs or other visual communicative devices that are located entirely within a lawful building or structure and do not otherwise qualify as a window sign.
6. Architectural features. Decorative or architectural features of buildings not including lettering, trademarks or moving parts).
7. Symbols in architecture. Symbols of noncommercial organizations or concepts including, but not limited to, religious or political symbols, when such are permanently integrated into the structure of a permanent building which is otherwise legal.
8. Personal appearance. Items or devices of personal apparel, decoration or appearance, including tattoos, makeup, costumes.
9. Manufacturers' marks. Marks on tangible products, which identify the maker, seller, provider or product, and which customarily remain attached to the product even after sale.
10. Fireworks, etc. the legal use of fireworks, candles and artificial lighting not otherwise regulated by this chapter.
11. Mass transit signage. Advertisements or banners mounted on trains or duly licensed mass transit vehicles that legally pass through the city.
12. Grave stones or grave markers.
13. Memorial tablets, plaques and directional signs for community historical resources.
14. Newsracks and newsstands.
15. Seasonal and holiday decorations in season (but not including balloons or inflatable objects on non-residential properties).
16. Any artwork, including murals, placed on a wall, structure, or fence owned by the City or in which the City has obtained a property or contractual interest for purposes of displaying art as part of a public art program.
Site” means one or more parcels of land identified by the assessor's records and for which a building or building complex or center exists or has been proposed. 11/12/2024 D2 63 of 100
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Street frontage” means, as applicable, the length of the horizontal distance of a property parallel to and adjacent to: (1) a dedicated and improved public street; or (2) a right-of- way for ingress and egress dedicated to public use, excluding alleys.
Temporary on-site sign” means a sign displayed on the site of activity for limited period of time only.
Temporary signs during election periods” means a sign which conveys any lawful noncommercial message, which satisfies the requirements particular to those signs as set forth in Section 18.52.060, and which are on display during an election period.
Ultimate street line” means the future boundary line between a street and the property abutting such street as established by Specific Plan or General Plan adopted pursuant to the State Conservation and Planning Act.
Uniform Building code” means the current edition of the Uniform Building Code as adopted by the City.
Uniform Sign code” means the current edition of the Uniform Sign Code as adopted by the City.
Wall sign” means a sign which is painted upon, attached to or erected against the exterior wall of a building or structure with the exposed face of the sign in a plane parallel to the plane of said wall.
A parapet or
canopy wall sign
shall be considered
a wall sign,
provided they are
architecturally
integrated with the
building and do not
project above the
roof-line or roof
edge. The exposed
face of such signs shall also be in a plane parallel to the plane of the exterior walls.
Window sign” means any sign painted or affixed to the inside or outside of a window surface, or otherwise so located within a building so that its primary function is to be viewed from the exterior of the building. Window signs do not include window displays of merchandise offered for routine sale by a business or establishment or which are used in its routine operations.
Prior Code Appendix A 1801; Ord. No. 92-25, Amended, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Amended, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2002-17, Amended, 08/27/02; Ord. No. 2007-25, Amended, 11/27/07; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10; Ord. No. 2011-3, Amended 5/24/11) Section 18.52.030 Interests Served
This chapter seeks to balance the constitutional right to free speech, by means of sign display, against the community impacts of excessive or inappropriate signage. The interests to be served by this chapter include, but are not necessarily limited to, community aesthetics, traffic and pedestrian safety, the promotion of tourism and commerce, and the overall quality of life as affected by signs. Specifically, this chapter seeks to advance the following goals without permitting a violation of any other lawful ordinance:
A. Protect the general public health, safety, and welfare.
B. Advance the goals, policies and strategies of the General Plan, Zoning Code, and Design Guidelines.
C. Reduce traffic and safety hazards.
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D. Provide directional and destination information to various activities and land uses, in order to serve the public convenience.
E. Establish content-neutral regulations for the design, quality of materials, number, size, construction, location, illumination, maintenance and other related aspects of signs and sign structures.
F. Provide uniform standards which promote fair competition and unique identification within the business community.
G. Provide clear regulations which provide fair notice, and provide review procedures for any individual action or program undertaken to enforce the requirements of this chapter.
H. Comply with state and federal laws requiring the display of signs and notices.
I. Provide a reasonable system of sign regulations, to ensure the development of a high quality visual environment.
J. Ensure that signs are appropriately maintained, and professional in appearance.
K. Encourage a desirable community character which has a minimum of visual clutter.
L. Enhance the economic value of the community and each area, business and use thereof through the regulation of the non-communicative aspects of signs.
M. Encourage signs which are architecturally compatible with their location and adjacent land uses.
N. Promote signs which present a cohesive stylistic pattern.
Prior Code Appendix A 1802; Ord. No. 92-25, Amended, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Amended, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10) Section 18.52.040 Neutral Administration
The provisions and policies stated in this section apply to all signs within the regulatory scope of this chapter, and override any more specific provisions to the contrary contained anywhere within this chapter.
A. Message neutrality. It is the City’s policy to regulate signs in a constitutional manner, which is content neutral as to noncommercial signs and at least viewpoint neutral as to commercial signs.
B. Regulatory interpretations. All regulatory interpretations of this chapter are to be exercised in light of the City’s message neutrality and substitution of messages policies.
Whenever any sign permit or other authorization is subject to a discretionary review, such review shall not consider the message content of the sign, other than whether any proposed commercial messages thereon are off-site or on-site. Where a particular type of sign is proposed in a permit application, and the type is neither expressly allowed nor prohibited by this chapter, or whenever a sign does not qualify as a “structure” as defined in the building code, then the Community Development Director or his/her designee shall approve, conditionally approve or disapprove the application based on the most similar sign type that is expressly regulated by this chapter.
C. Substitution of messages. Subject to the land owner’s consent, a noncommercial message of any type may be substituted for any duly permitted or allowed commercial message or any duly permitted or allowed noncommercial message, provided that the sign structure or mounting device is legal without consideration of message content. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting, however, it must comply with existing sign regulations or applicable code sections. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this chapter. 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 11/12/2024 D2 65 of 100
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does not create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel or land use, nor does it affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted. This provision does not allow for the substitution of an off-site commercial message in place of an on-site commercial message.
D. Rules for non-communicative aspects of signs. All rules and regulations concerning the non-communicative aspects of signs, such as location, size, height, illumination, spacing, orientation, etc., stand enforceable independently of any permit or approval process.
E. Billboard policy (off-site, off-premises sign). The City completely prohibits the construction, erection, use, or conversion to digital or electronic display of any billboards, as defined in this chapter, other than the maintenance of billboards which were lawfully in existence in the city, on the date on which the city first adopted an ordinance prohibiting billboards or for which a valid permit has been issued and has not expired, as of the date on which this provision is first adopted. The City adopts this policy pursuant to California Government Code section 65850, California Business and Professions Code sections 5354(a) and 5408.3 (both effective January 1, 2003). No permit shall be issued for any billboard which violates this policy, and the City will take immediate abatement action against any billboard constructed or maintained in violation of this policy. The City Council affirmatively declares that it would have adopted this billboard policy even if it were the only provision in this chapter. The City Council intends for this billboard policy to be severable and separately enforceable even if other provision(s) of this chapter may be declared, by a court of competent jurisdiction, to be unconstitutional, invalid or unenforceable. This provision does not prohibit agreements to relocate presently existing, legal billboards, as encouraged by California Business and Professions Code Section 5412.
Prior Code Appendix A 1803; Ord. No. 92-25, Renumbered, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Amended, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10) Section 18.52.050 General Regulations
A. Purpose and Intent. The general regulations set forth in this section are intended to provide direction and parameters for the design, size, height and location of signs. The requirements are minimum standards which, by themselves, may not achieve compatibility with building architecture, the neighborhood and the community appearance to the degree required by this chapter or other applicable requirements. In the course of reviewing sign permits, proper consideration shall be given to the sign’s relationship to the overall appearance of the subject property and surrounding area to achieve the goals and purposes of this chapter.
B. Sign Area
1. Definitions.
a. Sign area means the entire background area of a sign upon which copy may be placed.
b. Copy area means the actual area of the visually communicative imagery and sign copy applied to any background. In computing copy area, straight lines are drawn closest to the copy extremities encompassing individual words, symbols or logos to produce the smallest parallelogram which encloses the entire image. The area within the parallelogram shall be the copy area.
2. Computation of Sign Area
a. Single-faced Signs. The area of a sign shall be computed based on the entire area within a single continuous perimeter enclosing the extreme limits of the sign background area, including all words, symbols, emblems, representations or other display, together with any material or color forming an integral part of the sign or display. The area of a sign shall exclude the structures or uprights on which the sign is supported, unless such supports or uprights are designed in a manner so as to form an integral background of the sign. 11/12/2024 D2 66 of 100
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b. Multiple-faced Signs. In the case of a sign which has two or more faces, the area of all faces shall be included in computing the area of the sign, except that if two such faces are placed back to back and are no more than 24 inches apart at any point, the area of the sign shall be the area of one face, or the area of the larger face, if the two faces are unequal in area. In the case of a sign of spherical, cylindrical, semi-cylindrical, or other irregular shapes, the area of the sign shall be one-half of the surface area thereof.
C. Computation of Sign Height. The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from the base of the sign at finished grade to the top of the highest attached component of the sign.
D. Construction of Signs
1. All permanent sign faces shall be constructed of permanent materials including, but not limited to, painted and/or sandblasted wood, ceramic tile, applied letters, carved wood, metal, plastic or other compatible, durable and waterproof material. No material more combustible than treated wood shall be used in the construction of any permanent sign.
2. Structural design. Structural design of all signs shall conform to the requirements of the Uniform Building Code, and all the applicable codes currently in effect.
3. All signs shall be constructed in accordance with all applicable Uniform Building Code and National Electrical Code provisions. Exposed-tube neon signs shall be constructed and installed in compliance with the National Electrical Code.
4. No sign or sign structure shall be placed or constructed so that it impairs the sight distance requirements indicated in Figure 1 or Figure 2 at any public or private street intersection, or driveway. Signs shall be constructed or installed so as to not obstruct line of sight for pedestrians, bicyclists or vehicular drivers.
5. Exposed sign support hardware shall be of a compatible material and design with the sign it supports and shall compliment the architecture and design of building to which it is affixed. Sign supports of a permanent sign shall be reviewed as part of the sign permit application.
PLPrivateDriveway
12 feet
12 feet
12 feet
12 feet
PL
40 feet
40 feetPL
6 feet
6 feet
Private Driveway
6 feet
6 feet
6 feet
PL
6 feet PLPL
Figure 1 - Controlled Intersection Figure 2 - Uncontrolled Intersection Signal or
Stop Sign
Public or Private Street Public or Private Street
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6. Sign design, scale, color and materials shall be selected that are compatible in style with the building it serves. Brand logos shall be allowed as part of the sign as long as it is proportionate and compatible with the building in terms of size and scale.
7. Fluorescent colors and reflective surfaces are prohibited.
E. Lighting of Signs
1. Exposed neon lighting is prohibited, except when used for accent as part of a sign. Halolighting or internal reverse illumination is also permitted for blade/projecting and wall signs only.
2. Illuminated signs shall comply with the following provisions in addition to any others established in this chapter for the appropriate sign classification:
a. Electrical lines from buildings to signs shall be concealed from public view.
b. Exposed raceways are prohibited.
c. Light fixtures in planted areas shall be screened.
d. All external lighting shall be directed away from any adjacent residential uses and public rights-of-way.
e. Signs shall be designed and oriented to minimize light or glare upon adjacent residential uses and public rights-of-way. f. No sign shall be illuminated by bulbs, tubes, fire, flame, or sparks visible from any public street.
g. No sign shall employ strobe lights, or any other light source that pulsates, blinks or flashes excluding small twinkle lights similar to those commonly used for seasonal holiday lighting.
h. No sign shall employ the use of mirrors or any other highly reflective surface so as to direct or reflect any natural or artificial light onto any public right-of- way or adjoining property.
i. No illuminated sign in an O-P, C-1, C-2, C-3, M-1 or mixed-use zone shall be placed within 75 feet of any property line which adjoins residentially zoned property.
j. No illumination source shall be directed so that direct glare from the source is visible from any point beyond the lot or building site upon which the light source is located.
F. Landscaping
1. Landscaped planter areas shall be required to be installed at the base of all permanent freestanding, freeway-oriented pole, monument, and housing complex signs.
2. The area of the landscaped planter shall be at least equal in size to the area of two sign faces for freestanding and freeway-oriented signs and one (1) sign face for monument and housing complex signs.
3. All landscaped planters shall be irrigated and landscaped with drought tolerant, low maintenance plant materials in accordance with Chapter 18.56. The type of irrigation required will be dependent on the type of landscaping proposed.
4. All landscaped planter areas and plant materials shall be maintained in a neat and healthy manner and shall be kept free of all debris and trash.
G. Relationship to Buildings and Other Signs
1. Signs located upon a lot with only one main building, shall be designed to incorporate at least one of the predominantly visual elements of such building, such as type of construction materials, color, or other design detail. Each sign located upon a lot with more than one main building, such as a shopping center or other commercial or industrial complex, shall be designed to incorporate at least one of such predominantly visual design elements common to all such buildings or the buildings occupied by the “ main tenants” or principal enterprises.
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2. All such signs shall have designs which are well related to each other by the similar treatment or incorporation of similar design elements, such as type of construction materials, letter style of the sign copy, shape of the entire sign.
H. Maintenance
1. All signs shall comply with the following maintenance regulations. a. All signs and sign supports shall be maintained in a clean and safe condition.
b. Signs shall be maintained in a graffiti-free condition. c. The owner shall keep the display area of all signs neatly printed or posted at all times and shall correct any painting, fading, chipping, peeling, or flaking paint or plastic and mechanical or structural defect.
I. Specific Sign Prohibitions.
1. Signs in Public Right-of-Way. No signs shall be permitted to encroach on any public right-of-way except as otherwise authorized by this chapter. Signs shall not be nailed or attached to trees, traffic control devices or public utility poles. Any sign in violation of this provision may be removed.
2. Unsafe Signs. Any sign which constitutes an immediate hazard to the safety of any persons or property may be removed by the City upon ascertainment of such facts by the City Planner or designee.
3. Signs not Specifically Permitted. Signs not specifically permitted by this chapter, are hereby specifically prohibited.
4. New billboards are prohibited.
J. Mixed Use Zones. In any zone where both residential and non-residential uses are allowed, the signage rights and responsibilities applicable to any particular use shall be determined as follows: residential uses shall be treated as if they were located in a residential zone, and nonresidential uses shall be treated as if they were located in a zone where that particular use would be allowed, either as a matter of right or subject to a Special Use Permit or similar discretionary process.
K. Signs in Overlay Zones and Specific Plan Areas. All sign requirements of this chapter are associated with the underlying zone in which the sign is proposed; however, overlay zones and Specific Plan Areas adopted by the City may alter these requirements based upon the specific conditions and circumstances.
L. Comprehensive Sign Program (CSP)
1. A CSP shall be required for all new or rehabilitated commercial and industrial centers consisting of two or more tenant spaces and multi-family residential projects of more than two units. A CSP shall also be required for all projects requiring a Site Development Plan, Special Use Permit, or for any signage proposal which deviates from the regulations presented in this chapter.
2. When a Site Development Plan or Special Use Permit is required, the CSP shall be concurrently submitted and evaluated. If a Site Development Plan or Special Use Permit is not required, the CSP shall be reviewed independently by the City Planner. The purpose of the program shall be to integrate signs with the building architectural design and landscaping design into a unified theme. In order to achieve this purpose, all signs must comply with the design standards stated herein:
a. Using the same background color on all signs or by using various shades determined compatible by the City Planner. Use of compatible colors for the sign copy shall be limited to three colors per sign.
b. Using visually consistent lettering, fonts, supports, and mounting methods for signs.
c. Using the same form of illumination for all signs.
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3. Deviations from the requirements of this chapter for individual signs may be allowed through an approved CSP if the applicant establishes that the deviation is aesthetically justified and will, through a unifying theme, integrate the sign with the building architectural design and landscaping design. Content of the sign shall not be considered in the review.
Prior Code Appendix A 1804; Ord. No. 92-25, Amended, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Amended, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended, & Renumbered, 9/28/10)
Section 18.52.060 Regulations by Sign Type
All signs subject to this chapter shall be classified under one of the classifications in the following table. In the event there is no classification applicable to a particular sign, it shall be placed in that classification which it most closely resembles as determined by the City Planner. 11/12/2024 D2 70 of 100
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Table 18.52.060A
Sign Types Matrix
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of
Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Address
Numbers
All zones Two (2) per
unit.
4 sq. ft. 8 in. (Residential)
12 in. (Non-residential)
None n/a
Animated Prohibited, except as allowed under Animated Window Electronic Sign Animated
Window
Electronic
O-P, C-1,
C-2, C-3,
M-1, and
Business
Improvem
ent District
BID)
areas of
Downtown
Vista
One (1) per
window
area or one
1) per
establishme
nt,
whichever is
less.
6 sq. ft. Sign shall not extend
beyond the height or
width of a window on
which it is placed.
Sign Permit –
Administrative
Animated signs are allowed as
part of the animated window
electronic sign. Flat screen
TVs and/or computer monitors
may be used under this sign
category. Signs must be
placed on the inside of the
window.
Awning O-P, C-1,
C-2, C-3
and M-1
One (1) per
main
entrance to
a building.
12 sq. ft. Sign shall not project
above the awning.
Sign Permit –
Administrative
Provide a minimum of 8 ft.
clearance between bottom of
sign and sidewalk.
An Encroachment Permit shall
be required for awning that
projects into the public right-
of-way area.
Balloon Prohibited, except as allowed under Section 18.52.070.B.2. 11/12/2024 D2 71 of 100
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Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of
Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Banner See Section 18.52.070.B.1.
Billboards/
Off-premises
and off-site
signs
Prohibited. See Section 18.52.040.E for further information.
Blade or
Projecting
O-P, C-1, C-2,
C-3
One (1) per tenant
with street and
pedestrian
frontage).
12 sq. ft. for each
face of a double-
faced sign
maximum of two
faces allowed).
Minimum of
8 ft. vertical
clearance
from finished
grade to
bottom of
sign.
Sign Permit –
Administrative
Sign shall not project above
the roof edge, parapet wall, or
façade of the building to which
it is attached.
Sign shall not project outward
from the face of the building
wall or façade and over the
public right-of-way more than
the distance specified below:
8 ft. vertical clearance = 1 ft.
maximum projection.
8 ft. to 16 ft vertical clearance
maximum projection of 1
plus 0.5 ft. for each foot of
clearance in excess of 8 ft.
Over 16 ft. vertical clearance =
5 ft. maximum projection.
An Encroachment Permit shall
be required for a sign that
projects into the public right-
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Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of
Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
of-way area.
Blinking or
Flashing
Prohibited
Canopy O-P, C-1, C-2,
C-3, and M-1
Two (2) for each
building entrance,
but not more than
two (2) per
building frontage
on any one street.
One (1) of the two
2) signs must be
an under canopy
sign and the other
must be attached
to the front of the
canopy or parallel
to the building
façade.
Under canopy
sign must be a
maximum of 4 sq.
ft.
Canopy sign must
be a maximum of
one (1) sq. ft. of
sign area for each
lineal foot of
canopy front side
width. Such sign
shall not exceed
50 sq. ft. in area.
Minimum of
8 ft. vertical
clearance
from finished
grade to
bottom of
sign(s). If
vehicular
traffic is
permitted
below the
canopy, the
minimum
vertical
clearance
between
road surface
to bottom of
sign(s) shall
be 14 ft.
Sign Permit –
Administrative
A canopy sign shall not
exceed two feet from its base
to the top of the sign copy.
An Encroachment Permit shall
be required for a canopy that
projects into the public right-
of-way area.
11/12/2024 D2 73 of 100
18.52 (18) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Directional All zones Eight (8) per
building site.
4 sq. ft. 3.5 ft.
ground
mounted);
Wall
mounted
signs shall
be placed at
a level where
they are
clearly visible
to the traffic
they are
intended to
control.
Suspended
signs shall
have a
minimum
clearance of
8 ft. for
pedestrian
traffic and 14
ft. for
vehicular
traffic.
Sign Permit –
Administrative
n/a
11/12/2024 D2 74 of 100
18.52 (19) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Drive-thru
Services
Menu Board
C-1, C-2, C-3,
and M-1
Two (2) per site 30 sq. ft. 6 ft. Sign Permit –
Administrative (if replacing
existing menu board only);
OR
Comprehensive Sign
Program to be submitted
with the Special Use Permit
if submittal of a new drive-
thru project).
Menu board and speakers
shall be oriented away from
residential uses and from the
public right-of-way. Instead,
these menu boards and
speakers shall be oriented for
use by those in the drive-thru
lane only.
Electronic
Message
Board or
Digital Display
C-3 One (1) per lot or
building complex.
For a single
building with at
least 80,000 sq.
ft. of gross floor
area, a maximum
of 20 sq. ft. in
sign area to be
displayed on the
exterior of the
building.
20 ft. above
ground level
Sign Permit –
Administrative
No animation, blinking or
flashing is allowed. Copy,
images and/or color changes
only once every 24 hours
unless otherwise allowed
through a Comprehensive
Sign Program.
Sign shall not project above
the roof edge, parapet wall, or
façade of the building to which
it is attached.
The style and proportions of
the electronic message board
sign must be compatible with
the scale of the building and
the character of the area.
11/12/2024 D2 75 of 100
18.52 (20) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Flags All zones Two (2) per lot or
building complex.
Length of the
horizontal axis of
the flag shall be
no greater than
two times the
length of the
vertical axis.
Flag must be
attached to a
pole no
higher than
35 feet or the
highest
legally
permitted
structure
existing on
the
premises,
whichever is
less.
Sign Permit –
Administrative
n/a
Freeway-
oriented Pole
May only be
located on
sites of new
motor vehicles
sales or hotels
within
Freeway-
Oriented
Districts (See
Maps 1
through 5).
One (1) pole sign
in a required
landscaped area,
outside of the
public right-of-way.
The proposed pole
sign is not within
150 feet of a
neighboring sign
on either side so
as to not obstruct
neighboring signs.
150 sq. ft. of sign
area
30 ft. above
ground level
or 15 ft.
above
freeway
grade level,
whichever is
greater (not
to exceed 45
feet above
ground level)
Sign Permit –
Administrative
Halo-lit Signs Halo lighting permitted for blade/projecting and wall signs. 11/12/2024 D2 76 of 100
18.52 (21) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Hand Held
Commercial
or Personally-
Attended
Commercial
All commercial
zones
6 sq. ft. measured
one side only.
The maximum
cumulative size of
a sign which is
physically
controlled by two
or more persons
acting in concert
is twelve (12)
square feet,
measured one
side only.
None The sign(s) must be
personally worn or held by a
person, or personally attended
by one or more persons. The
sign(s) must be displayed in
conformity with the hand held
commercial sign display
standards set forth in section
18.52.080.
Hand Held
Non-
commercial or
Personally-
Attended
Non-
commercial
Allowed if the
sign complies
with the
provisions of
this chapter
and other
laws, including
without
limitation, laws
designed to
promote public
safety and
access.
6 sq. ft. measured
one side only.
The maximum
cumulative size of
a sign which is
physically
controlled by two
or more persons
acting in concert
is twelve (12)
square feet,
measured one
side only.
None The sign(s) must be
personally worn or held by a
person, or personally attended
by one or more persons
11/12/2024 D2 77 of 100
18.52 (22) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Housing
Complex
A-1, E-1, R-1,
R-1-B, and R-
M
One (1) per public
street frontage of a
lot or building site,
with no more than
two (2) per lot or
building site.
32 sq. ft. of sign
area
6 ft. Sign Permit –
Administrative
Sign shall be placed in a
landscaping area where one
1) sq. ft. of landscaped area
is required for every one (1)
sq. ft. of sign area.
Marquee See notes
under Other
Special
Considerations
One (1) per lot
with a public street
frontage.
32 sq. ft. of sign
area.
6 ft. if
monument
sign or pole
sign-general;
OR
If attached to
a building,
sign shall not
project
above the
roof edge,
parapet wall,
or façade of
the building .
Sign Permit –
Administrative
Marquee signs shall be
allowed only for uses such as
theaters, churches, temples or
other similar uses that require
interchangeable copy as part
of their normal/daily
operations.
11/12/2024 D2 78 of 100
18.52 (23) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Monument O-P, C-1, C-2,
C-3, and M-1
One (1) per public
street frontage of a
lot or building site,
with no more than
two (2) per lot or
building site.
60 sq. ft. of sign
area.
6 ft. Sign Permit –
Administrative
Sign shall be placed in a
landscaping area where one
1) sq. ft. of landscaped area
is required for every one (1)
sq. ft. of sign area.
Project identification signs
may accommodate up to four
4) tenant panels per face.
Neon (for
accent use
only)
C-1, C-2 One (1) per
building.
2 sq. ft. The sign
shall not
project
above the
building’s
roof edge,
parapet or
façade.
Sign Permit –
Administrative
Exposed neon lighting used
for accent as part of a sign is
permitted and not considered
a neon sign.
Neon
interior)
All zones Two (2) per
establishment.
2 sq. ft. n/a None Permitted only within building
interior to communicate static
message.
Noise Making
or Audible
Signs, Except
for Drive-thru
Menu Boards
Prohibited
11/12/2024 D2 79 of 100
18.52 (24) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Non-permitted
Excess
Signage
Prohibited, see Section 18.52.100.
Pennants Prohibited, except as allowed under Section 18.52.070.B.2.
Pole Prohibited, except for Freeway-Oriented Pole as identified in this table.
Pole Sign
Freeway-
Oriented
See Maps 1
through 5 –
Freeway-
oriented
Districts for
areas where
pole signs are
allowed.
One (1) per
building complex;
or one (1) per lot
for lots that are not
part of a building
complex.
150 sq. ft. of sign
area
30 ft. above
ground level
or 15 ft.
above
freeway
grade level,
whichever is
greater (not
to exceed 45
feet above
ground
level).
Sign Permit –
Administrative
Project identification pole
signs may accommodate up to
four (4) tenant panels per
face.
Sign may be supported by a
single or multiple poles or
columns.
Sign must be placed in a
required landscaped area,
outside of the public right-of-
way. The proposed pole sign
may not be within 150 feet of
a neighboring sign on either
side so as to not obstruct
neighboring signs.
11/12/2024 D2 80 of 100
18.52 (25) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Pole Sign –
General
O-P, C-1, C-2,
C-3, M-1, A-1,
E-1, R-1, R-1-
B and R-M.
One (1) per
building complex;
or one (1) per lot
for lots that are not
part of a building
complex.
64 sq. ft.
supported by two
or more poles or
columns in the
ground (O-P, C-1,
C-2, C-3, and M-
1)
32 sq. ft.
supported by two
or more columns
or poles in the
ground (A-1, E-1,
R-1, R-1-B and
R-M).
6 ft. Sign Permit –
Administrative
Project identification signs for
a building complex or
commercial center may
accommodate up to four (4)
tenant panels per face.
Sign must be supported by
two or more poles or columns
in the ground.
Portable Allowed within
the Designated
BID Areas
see Exhibit A)
immediately in
front of the
advertised
establishment.
The intent is to
help create a
pedestrian-
oriented
environment
and enhance
the overall
downtown
character.
An establishment
can display only
one portable sign
pursuant to the
combined
operation of this
Section and
Section 12.20.060,
provided that no
more than two
portable signs can
be displayed for
any one building.
6 sq. ft. per side
maximum 2 ft. in
width).
3 ft. Sign Permit –
Administrative
Removable lettering shall be
prohibited. Use of chalk or dry
erase board as sign area may
be allowed. Illuminated or
animated signs are prohibited.
To be displayed only during
regular business hours.
11/12/2024 D2 81 of 100
18.52 (26) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Produce
Stand
A-1, E-1, R-1,
and R-1-B.
Two (2) per
produce stand.
6 sq. ft. n/a Sign Permit –
Administrative
Sign(s) shall be securely
affixed to a produce stand and
shall not be located on or
within any public right-of-way
or private road easement.
Sign(s) on produce stand shall
be displayed only during the
time period the produce is
available on the property on
which the sign is located.
Such sign(s) shall be removed
when such produce is no
longer available.
Sign(s) shall only advertise
produce available on the
property.
Project
Noticing –
Project On-
Site Signs
All zones One (1) on-site 6 sq. ft.
maximum 2 ft.
high by 3 ft.
wide).
6 ft. ground-
mounted
pole height.
Approval by project
planner.
Sign area background color:
yellow. Letters: capitalized
black letters.
Applicant or developer
phrases or logos are not
allowed on the sign.
Damaged or removed notices
shall be replaced immediately
by the applicant or developer.
11/12/2024 D2 82 of 100
18.52 (27) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Real Estate
Sale Sign -
General
All zones One (1) per lot 6 sq. ft. 4 ft. None Sign may be displayed on private property only with
owner’s consent.
Sign may not be placed in the
public right-of-way or on any
publicly owned property.
Signs must be removed not
later than fifteen days after the
close of escrow or the rental
or lease of the property.
Flags, banners and pennants
may not be placed on the sign
or be attached to it.
Real Estate
Sign -
Commercial
All zones One (1) per lot
zoned for
commercial use,
industrial use, or
zoned for or
developed with a
lawful multiple
dwelling.
24 sq. ft. for
commercial and
industrial zones;
otherwise, 12 sq.
ft.
6 ft.
freestanding
sign).
If located on
a building,
the sign shall
not project
above the
building’s
roof edge,
parapet or
façade.
Sign Permit –
Administrative
Parcels lawfully displaying a
real estate sign - commercial,
may also display a real estate
sign - general.
Illumination is not allowed; it
must be located on-site (not
allowed in the public right-of-
way area); sign area of the
real estate sign shall not count
towards total sign area
permitted for the site.
All sale, lease, and rental
signs shall be removed within
15 days from the date of sale,
lease or rental.
11/12/2024 D2 83 of 100
18.52 (28) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Residential A-1, E-1, R-1,
R-1-B, RM,
and mixed-use
zones.
Unlimited, so long
as aggregate total
of all signs does
not exceed 80 sq.
ft.
16 sq. ft. of total
sign area.
5 ft.
freestanding
sign) or 8 ft.
if mounted
on a building
wall.
None Illumination is not allowed; it
must be located on-site (not
allowed in the public right-of-
way area).
Signage allowance is for each
individual residential unit.
Roof Prohibited
Rotating Prohibited
Service
Stations
C-1, C-2, C-3,
and M-1
Two (2) monument signs (maximum of
60 sq. ft. total sign area) OR one (1)
monument sign (30 sq. ft.) IF a pole
sign is allowed and approved (See
Freeway-oriented Pole Signs in this
table).
Two (2) canopy signs (maximum size
of 35 sq. ft. each). Sign(s) shall not
extend beyond or above the canopy
and shall be designed as an integral
part of the canopy structure.
One (1) pole sign in a required
landscaped area, outside of the public
right-of-way. The proposed pole sign
is not within 150 feet of a neighboring
sign on either side so as to not obstruct
neighboring signs (See Freeway-
oriented Pole Signs in this table).
Two (2) wall-mounted signs or logos
maximum of 15 sq. ft. per sign and not
projecting above the roof edge). Motor
fuel price indicators as authorized or
n/a Sign Permit –
Administrative
n/a
11/12/2024 D2 84 of 100
18.52 (29) (Vista 02/08/22)
required by law.
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Temporary
Signs During
Election
Periods
All zones Unlimited within
the public right-of-
way area.
Unlimited in area
other than public
right-of-way area,
so long as
aggregate total of
all signs does not
exceed 80 sq. ft.
6 sq. ft. within the
public right-of-
way area.
16 sq.ft. in areas
other than public
right-of-way area.
n/a None Signs not allowed in roadway
medians. Signs may be
placed on property only if the
owner, lessee, or other person
exercising control of such
property has given prior
consent.
Signs shall not be placed or
affixed to any trees, utility
poles, traffic signs and
devices, or any publicly
maintained fixtures within any
public right-of-way or
easement areas dedicated to
the City, or in any manner that
presents a hazard or threat to
public safety as determined by
the City Engineer.
A sign shall not be erected,
installed, placed, or
maintained by any person
prior to 35 days preceding any
federal, state, or local election,
and shall be removed, or
caused to be removed, by the
person responsible for placing
or installing such sign, within 5
days following such election.
11/12/2024 D2 85 of 100
18.52 (30) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Window O-P, C-1, C-2,
C-3, and M-1.
Sign area (s) shall
not exceed 25% of
any single window
area.
Sign area shall
not exceed 25%
of any single
window area.
However, when
multiple windows
are located next
to each other and
with no wall
separation in
between them,
then 25% can be
based on the total
area of all
windows
combined
together as one.
Sign copy
shall not
extend
beyond the
height or
width of a
window on
which it is
placed.
Sign Permit –
Administrative
n/a
11/12/2024 D2 86 of 100
18.52 (31) (Vista 02/08/22)
Sign Type Permitted
Zones
Maximum
Number of Signs
Permitted
Maximum Size
per Sign (based
on Sign Area
unless
otherwise
specified)
Maximum
Height per
Sign
Sign Permits Required
separate building
permits may be required,
to be determined at
submittal)
Other Special
Considerations (for the
specific type of sign being
proposed)
Wall O-P, C-1, C-2,
C-3, and M-1.
One (1) per
building frontage
on a public or
private street or
parking lot.
One (1) sq. ft. of
sign area or copy
area, whichever
applies, for each
lineal foot of
building frontage
on a public or
private street or
parking lot. Such
sign shall not
exceed 100 sq. ft.
in area.
Sign shall
not project
above the
roof edge,
parapet wall,
or façade of
the building
to which it is
attached.
Sign Permit –
Administrative
Sign shall not project outward
from the face of the building
wall or façade and over the
public right-of-way more than
6 inches. A vertical clearance
of 8 ft. shall be present to
accommodate this projection.
Cabinet signs shall not be
allowed as part of new or
entirely rehabilitated
commercial or industrial
centers.
When two (2) or more
establishments occupy one
building space with one
common entrance, they shall
be considered one
establishment for sign
computation purposes.
Prior Code Appendix A 1804; Ord. No. 1992-25, Amended, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Repealed & Replaced, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2007-25, Amended, 11/27/07; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10; Ord. No. 2011-3, Amended, 5/24/11; Ord. No. 2016-5, Amended, 4/8/16; Ord. No. 2016-5, Amended, 8/23/16; Ord. No. 2017-17, Amended, 10/24/17; Ord. No. 2019-5, Amended, 2/12/19; Ord. No. 2022-1, Amended, 02/08/22) 11/12/2024 D2 87 of 100
Exhibit A – BID Areas
11/12/2024 D2 88 of 100
Huff St
HuffSt
RaquelDrRaquelDr
We st Dr
West Dr
SeaBreezeWkSeaBreezeWk SEmeraldDrSEmeraldDr
N Em erald Dr
N Em erald Dr
Cel este
Dr
Cel est e
DrGlen n Rd
Glenn Rd
BonitaDrBonitaDr SunsetDrSunsetDr
Tiber on Dr
Tiber on Dr
ViaCentreViaCentre
Wari
ng Ct
Wari
ng Ct
Ced ar Rd
Cedar Rd
HaciendaDrHaciendaDr
TiberonLpTiberonLp
PlazaDrPlazaDr
Sky Hav en Ln
Sky Hav en L n
Nett
leton Rd
Nett
leton Rd
War ing Rd
Wari ng Rd
ThunderDr
WVistaWy
L
a
k
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Bl
v
d
78 HaciendaSpecificPlan
C-3C-1
R-M C-3
A-1
C-2
R-M
C-1
R-M
R-1
C-A
R-1
MHP
C-1
C-2
C-1
C-2
R-M
C-2
MHP
O
Freeway-OrientedDistrictsforPoleSigns: Map1 I 0 500 1,000250Feet Rev12/20/2018Disclaimer: Thisproductisforinformationalpurposesandmaynothavebeenpreparedfor, orbesuitableforlegal, engineering, orsurveying purposes. Usersofthisinformationshouldrevieworconsulttheprimarydataandinformationsourcestoascertaintheusabilityoftheinformation. 78 11/12/2024 D2 89 of 100
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Freeway-OrientedDistrictsforPoleSigns: Map2 I 0 500 1,000250Feet Rev12/20/2018Disclaimer: Thisproductisforinformationalpurposesandmaynothavebeenpreparedfor, orbesuitableforlegal, engineering, orsurveying purposes. Usersofthisinformationshouldrevieworconsulttheprimarydataandinformationsourcestoascertaintheusabilityoftheinformation. 78 11/12/2024 D2 90 of 100
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Freeway-OrientedDistrictsforPoleSigns: Map3 I 0 500 1,000250Feet Rev12/20/2018Disclaimer: Thisproductisforinformationalpurposesandmaynothavebeenpreparedfor, orbesuitableforlegal, engineering, orsurveying purposes. Usersofthisinformationshouldrevieworconsulttheprimarydataandinformationsourcestoascertaintheusabilityoftheinformation. 78 11/12/2024 D2 91 of 100
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Freeway-OrientedDistrictsforPoleSigns: Map4 I 0 500 1,000250Feet Rev12/20/2018Disclaimer: Thisproductisforinformationalpurposesandmaynothavebeenpreparedfor, orbesuitableforlegal, engineering, orsurveying purposes. Usersofthisinformationshouldrevieworconsulttheprimarydataandinformationsourcestoascertaintheusabilityoftheinformation. 78 11/12/2024 D2 92 of 100
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Freeway-OrientedDistrictsforPoleSigns: Map5 I 0 500 1,000250Feet Rev12/20/2018Disclaimer: Thisproductisforinformationalpurposesandmaynothavebeenpreparedfor, orbesuitableforlegal, engineering, orsurveying purposes. Usersofthisinformationshouldrevieworconsulttheprimarydataandinformationsourcestoascertaintheusabilityoftheinformation. 78 11/12/2024 D2 93 of 100
18.52 (38) (Vista 02/08/22)
Section 18.52.070 Temporary Signs
A. Temporary On-Site Signs for Projects that are Under Construction (New Construction Only)
One temporary on-site sign satisfying the requirements of this section is allowed during new construction of a residential project with more than ten units, a commercial project, or an industrial project. The sign shall be consisted of one single or double-faced freestanding sign to be placed on the construction site. The sign shall have a maximum area of 96 square feet (per face) and maximum height of 15 feet above ground.
For all other projects during new construction, one on-site single-faced freestanding sign will be allowed on the construction site and it shall not exceed eight feet in width and eight feet in height. All such signs shall be removed upon granting of final occupancy by the City.
B. Temporary On-Site Signs
Permitted zones: All non -residential zones and residential zones with legally established commercial, institutional, or industrial type uses.
1. Banners. Banners may be displayed on-site for a limited period of time in accordance with the following:
a. Approval of a Temporary On-site Banner Sign Permit by the City Planner or designee.
b. Banner sign area shall not exceed 1.5 square feet for each lineal foot of building or tenant frontage on a public street. A banner shall not exceed 100 square feet and need not be less than 25 square feet in area. The banner shall only be attached to a permanent and legally permitted building on the site.
c. Only one banner per building or tenant space is permitted to be displayed at any one time. Banners shall be non-illuminated and shall not be used to advertise goods and services which are not available on-site.
d. An applicant may obtain approval of no more than four temporary on-site banner sign applications in a calendar year. No permit for a temporary on-site banner sign shall exceed 16 consecutive days, except that a new establishment may display a temporary on-site banner sign for up to 30 consecutive days if the display commences within 60 days of the opening of the establishment. A period of at least 90 days must separate each such permit, measured from the first date the sign may be displayed under the permit. For purposes of this section, an establishment is deemed to have opened on the date it obtained or was required by law to obtain a business license from the City of Vista. Message content of the sign shall not be a factor in consideration of the application. e. An applicant may request an additional application approval and extended display time for banners intended to communicate that establishments are open during construction or remodeling. Display of this type of banner may commence upon issuance of a building or grading permit and may continue until such time as all final inspections of the site have been completed.
f. Approval procedure. The party deemed responsible for the sign shall submit written application for the display of the sign to the City Planner and obtain a Temporary On-site Banner Sign Permit. The written application shall include the following information and any other information deemed necessary to issue the permit:
i. Name, address and telephone number of the responsible party.
ii. Address of the property at which the sign will be displayed. iii. Location of the sign on the building. (For example, centered on north wall, approximately one foot below top of parapet) iv. Landlord or Property Manager approval for the sign, if applicable.
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18.52 (39) (Vista 02/08/22)
v. Inclusive dates of the display.
vi. Description of the sign, including size, materials and content/copy.
g. Fee. A permit fee, in an amount set by resolution or ordinance of the City Council, shall be submitted and included as part of the application for the Temporary On-site Banner Sign Permit.
2. Special signage provisions for lots where an automobile sales dealership is the primary use. Temporary on-site signage is permitted on lots on which the primary use is an automobile sales dealership in accordance with the following:
a. An application for a Comprehensive Sign Program (CSP) shall be submitted on a yearly basis; it may be submitted in combination with other application(s), or as a stand-alone application.
b. The application shall be in a form consistent with Section
18.52.060, with such modification as may be approved by the City Planner. The application shall describe the proposed temporary signage program, including the following information:
i. Proposed locations, sizes, materials of all proposed signage, which may include any signs permitted by the Vista Development Code as well as balloons, pennants and banners.
ii. Proposed dates of display and the duration of each display period with a maximum of four display periods during a calendar year and a maximum of 15 consecutive days within each display period.
c. The CSP shall be processed in the same manner as a CSP pursuant to Section 18.52.050.L. Content of the signage shall not be a factor in consideration of the application.
Prior Code Appendix A 1804; Ord. No. 92-25, Amended, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Repealed & Replaced, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10) Section 18.52.080 Hand Held Commercial Sign Display Standards All hand held commercial signs or personally attended commercial signs shall comply with the following standards which shall be known as the hand held commercial sign display standards:
A. The signs must be displayed only during the time period of sunrise to sunset; and B. Signs may have no more than two display faces, may not be inflated, air- activated, illuminated, project any sharp edges or points, emit smoke or fumes or sounds, pose a fire hazard or other threat to public health safety and welfare, and may not be used to obstruct or impede pedestrian or vehicular traffic; and
C. A person may not have an object for purpose of sitting down while holding or personally attending the sign.
Prior Code Appendix A 1804; Ord. No. 92-25, Amended, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Repealed & Replaced, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10; Ord. 2011-3, Deleted & Replaced, 5/24/11)
Section 18.52.090 Mobile Billboards - Prohibited
A. The purpose of this section is to eliminate mobile billboard advertising within the city in order to promote the safe movement of vehicular traffic, to reduce traffic congestion on public roads, to reduce air pollution, and to improve the aesthetic appearance of the city.
B. It is unlawful to place a mobile billboard on any private property for the primary purpose of causing the mobile billboard to be visible to persons using any freeway, street or other public place within the City.”
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18.52 (40) (Vista 02/08/22)
C. This section shall not apply to any vehicle which displays an advertisement or business identification of its owner, so long as such vehicle is engaged in the usual business or regular work of the owner, and not used merely, mainly or primarily to display advertisements.
Prior Code Appendix 1804; Ord. No. 92-25, Amended, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Repealed & Replaced, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10; Ord. 2011-3, Amended 5/24/11)
Section 18.52.100 Non-Permitted Excess Signage - Prohibited A. Signs located on a parked or stationary vehicle, as defined in the Vehicle Code, are prohibited when: (1) the vehicle is located on property, other than City property, constituting a street or parking lot that is available for public use; and (2) operation of the vehicle cannot occur lawfully on public streets with the sign or display in place.
B. This section seeks to assure that businesses, establishments, and uses do not circumvent the purposes of this code by installing, locating or utilizing signage and displays which exceed the quantities, types and allowed locations for such signage. Additionally, this section is intended to avoid visual clutter, distractions for motorists, and degradation to the aesthetics of the community and its efforts to promote high quality and well-planned commercial, industrial and residential districts.
C. This section does not apply to non-permitted excess signage placed on vehicles located on City property, which instead, is subject to and prohibited by Vista Municipal Code Section 123.20.120.
Prior Code Appendix A 1804; Ord. No. 92-25, Amended 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Amended, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10; Ord. No. 2011-3, Amended, 5/24/11) Section 18.52.110 Permit Procedures
A. Permits required. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, limited liability company, corporation or entity to authorize, erect, re-erect, display, use, construct, maintain, move, alter, change, place, suspend or attach any sign within the city without first obtaining a written sign permit to do so and paying the fees prescribed therefore, unless the particular sign is expressly exempted from permit requirements by a provision of this chapter. A separate sign permit shall be required for a sign or signs for each business entity or establishment. An issued permit shall be valid only for the particular sign covered by the permit and only for locating the sign in the specific place allowed by such permit. Issuance of a sign permit does not excuse or relieve the recipient from the obligation to secure building or similar permits for the sign prior to commencing construction or installation. A sign permit shall not be required solely for the purpose of changing copy, repainting or cleaning an existing sign, unless a structural change is made or the copy change would conflict with an approved CSP. The rights and duties in a permit for a permanent sign attach to and travel with the land, not the sign owner, sponsor, or permittee.
B. Application for permit. Application for a sign permit shall be made in writing upon forms provided by the City Planner and shall include the following information:
1. Name, address and telephone number of the business owner or establishment, building owner, and sign contractor.
2. Location by street number and legal description (tract, block, lot) of the building, structure, or lot to which or upon which the sign is to be installed or affixed.
3. Evidence of ownership or landowner’s consent, such as a letter of authorization or signature on sign plans.
4. Site Plan (drawn to scale) of property showing use, location of proposed signs and buildings, length of building frontage where sign is to be located, parking areas, 11/12/2024 D2 96 of 100
18.52 (41) (Vista 02/08/22)
landscaping, walls or fences, property lines, right-of-way, streets and sidewalks. A drawing to scale showing the design of the sign, including dimensions, sign size, method of attachment, source of illumination, and showing the relationship to any building or structure to which it is, or is proposed to be, installed or affixed, or to which it relates.
5. Colored pictures showing final sign product layout.
6. The maximum and minimum heights of the sign(s).
7. Number, size and location of all existing signs on the same building, lot or premises.
No permit shall be issued for any sign or sign structure unless it complies with all applicable provisions of this chapter. Where there is a conflict between the provisions of this chapter and other applicable regulations, the more restrictive shall apply.
C. Findings required for approval. No sign application shall be approved unless and until the following findings are made by the City Planner:
1. The proposed sign(s) is (are) consistent with the design criteria of Section
18.52.050.
2. The proposed sign(s) conform(s) to all requirements of Section
18.52.050, Table 18.52.060A, applicable design standards, any applicable Comprehensive Sign Program, any requirements of the General Plan, and otherwise complies will all applicable laws and regulations, including those set forth in this chapter.
D. Fees. All signs require a sign permit fee and plan-checking/inspection fee that shall be paid in accordance with the schedule established by resolution of the City Council.
E. Time for Decision. Unless the applicant waives time, the City will render a written decision on all sign permit applications within 30 calendar days of when the application is complete. If such decision is not timely rendered, then the application is deemed denied.
However, when signage is part of an application for development approval (or other zoning processes), then this provision does not apply.
F. Status quo. During the time a sign permit application is under review, the status quo shall be maintained at the sign location.
G. Appeals. The decision on any sign permit application may be appealed in accordance with Vista Development Code Section 18.04.150. At each stage of internal appeal and review, the status quo shall be maintained pending the decision.
Prior Code Appendix A 1804; Ord. No. 92-25, Amended, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Amended, 06/25/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10)
Section 18.52.120 Signs Not Requiring a Sign Permit
A. The following signs shall not require a sign permit.
1. Signs required by law. Signs that are required to be erected or posted by federal or state government or by the City of Vista.
2. Temporary signs. Temporary signs that conform to the standards set forth in this chapter, except temporary on-site signs regulated by Section 18.52.070.
3. Project noticing on-site signs. Public notice signs required by the City as part of processing discretionary permits.
4. Signs, not exceeding two square feet which are posted to warn, such as danger high voltage,” or “beware of dog.”
B. Owner’s consent required for display. No sign may be displayed on real or tangible personal property without the consent of the legal owner of the property on which the sign is mounted or displayed. For purposes of this policy, “owner” means the holder of the legal title to the property and all parties and persons holding a present right to possession, control or use of the property
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18.52 (42) (Vista 02/08/22)
C. Obligation to comply with other laws. Although an owner may be authorized to erect a sign without first securing a permit under this chapter, the owner remains obligated to erect and maintain the sign in accordance with all requirements of this chapter and all other applicable laws.
Ord. No. 92-25, Enacted, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Amended, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2007-25, Amended, 11/27/07; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10; Ord. No. 2011-3, Amended & Renumbered, 5/24/11)
Section 18.52.130 Enforcement
A. Authority. The City Manager or designee (hereinafter referred to as "Officer") is hereby authorized to enforce all provisions of this chapter.
B. Right of entry. When necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of this chapter, or when the Officer has reasonable cause to believe that there exists any sign or any condition which makes such sign unsafe, the Officer may enter the premises or building upon which such sign is located at all reasonable times to inspect the sign or to perform any duty imposed upon the Officer by this chapter; provided that he/she shall first present proper credentials and demand entry; and if such building premises is unoccupied, he/she shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other persons having charge or control of the building or premises and demand entry. If entry is refused, or the Officer is unable to otherwise obtain the consent of the owner or occupant, the Officer shall immediately proceed to obtain an inspection warrant or other remedy as provided by law. In the absence of an emergency, the Officer shall not remove an illegal, abandoned or nonconforming sign unless directed to do so by resolution of the City Council to abate such illegal, abandoned or nonconforming sign, or as provided in this chapter.
C. Violations. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, limited liability company or corporation to erect, display, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, convert or demolish, equip, use or maintain any sign or sign structure in this jurisdiction, or cause or permit the same to be done, contrary to or in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter. Except that previously existing non-conforming signs shall be permitted to be maintained pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. The City shall proceed in its discretion against any person, firm, limited liability company or corporation violating any of the provisions of this chapter in accordance with the provisions of any applicable law or ordinance, including without limitation, Sections 1.12.030, 1.3.130, 1.16.010, and 1.16.020 of the Vista Municipal Code. Each such person, firm, limited liability company or corporation is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any violations of any of the provisions of this chapter is committed, continued or permitted.
D. Public nuisance. Any sign maintained, used or permitted contrary to the provisions of this chapter, including the maintenance of an illegal or discontinued sign, shall constitute a public nuisance which may be abated by the City by any means allowable under the law.
E. Responsibility. As used in this chapter, "person(s) deemed responsible" shall mean any or all of the following:
1. The person or entity who owns the real property upon which the sign exists.
2. The occupant of any premises upon which the sign exists.
3. The owner or user of the sign.
4. The person or entity who erects, places, or alters the sign.
Prior Code Appendix A 1803; Ord. No. 92-25, Renumbered, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Amended, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10) 11/12/2024 D2 98 of 100
18.52 (43) (Vista 02/08/22)
Section 18.52.140 Discontinued and Illegal Signs - Nuisance A. Intent of provisions. This section is intended to encourage the display of signs within the City that satisfy the requirements of this chapter by eliminating discontinued and illegal signs in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Assuring that existing signs, over time, comply with the provisions of this chapter is as important as prohibiting new signs that violate this chapter.
B. Illegal and discontinued signs.
1. Any illegal or discontinued sign located within the city is declared to be a public nuisance.
2. Partial exception for historical signs. Historical signs which were constructed lawfully will not be classified as an illegal sign due to a nonconformity with the requirements of this chapter if the City Council determines that the sign is historically significant and makes the following findings:
a. The historical significance of the sign for the community outweighs the non-conformity status of such sign.
b. The sign neither creates nor causes a traffic hazard. c. The sign does not degrade the aesthetic quality of the community. d. The sign is properly maintained and structurally sound. e. The sign does not adversely affect adjacent properties.
For purposes of this section, the City Council makes the above findings with respect to the two existing historical marquee signs located in the City.
Prior Code Appendix A 1804; Ord. No. 92-25, Amended, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Repealed & Replaced, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended and Renumbered, 9/28/10; Ord. No. 2011-3, Amended, 5/24/11)
Section 18.52.150 Legal Nonconforming Signs and Abatement Process In addition to and without limiting the remedies allowed by Section 18.52.120 and
18.52.130, illegal and discontinued signs may be abated and removed by the City using any one or more of the following:
A. Signs subject to Chapter 2, Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code also known as the Outdoor Advertising Act) may be removed pursuant to the provisions thereof. Nonconforming off-premises signs located within residential areas or agricultural areas within the incorporated boundaries of the city are now illegal, having been fully amortized as of 11/17/99 pursuant to Ordinance Number 92-25 and Business and Professions Code Sections 5412.1 and 5412.2, respectively.
B. Signs subject to Chapter 2.5 and Chapter 2.6, Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code ("on-premises advertising displays") may be removed pursuant to the provisions thereof. All nonconforming on-premises advertising displays are deemed to have a useful life of 15 years from the effective date of the ordinance creating the nonconformity.
C. All other legal nonconforming signs are deemed to have a useful life of 15 years from the effective date of the ordinance creating the nonconformity and may be abated thereafter using the procedure described in Chapter 2.6, Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code or any other procedure allowed by law.
D. In addition to and as an alternative to the abatement methods set forth in this section, any sign qualifying as a nuisance, including any illegal sign or any discontinued sign as defined in this chapter, may be removed, without payment to the owner, pursuant to the nuisance abatement procedures set forth in Chapter 8.36 of this Code or pursuant to any nuisance abatement procedures that may be available under the California Government Code 11/12/2024 D2 99 of 100
18.52 (44) (Vista 02/08/22)
or other California statues.
Ord. No. 92-25, Enacted, 11/17/92; Ord. No. 2000-5, Repealed & Replaced, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10)
Section 18.52.160 Severability
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this chapter is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this chapter. The Council hereby declares that it would have passed this chapter, and each section, subsection, sentence, clause and phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases had been declared invalid or unconstitutional, and if for any reason this chapter should be declared invalid or unconstitutional, then the original ordinance or ordinances shall be in full force and effect.
Ord. No. 2000-5, Added, 06/27/00; Ord. No. 2010-16, Amended & Renumbered, 9/28/10) 11/12/2024 D2 100 of 100
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From:Ryan White
Cc:Public Comments
Subject:Re: Vista Business Park Specific Plan A-Frame Signage, Free Business Resources Breakfast Seminar Date:Thursday, November 7, 2024 9:55:50 AM
Comments for Item D2 regarding A-Frame signs in Vista Business parks:
I would really like to see this approved as all the small breweries and restaurants are having a hard enough time as it is, it would be really nice to be able to put out movable A-frame signs advertising the business especially when the business is not directly on street view. Thanks for considering.
Ryan White | Co-Founder
Local Roots Kombucha | San Diego, CA
207-318-4326 | @LocalRootsKombucha
On Nov 6, 2024, at 4:42 PM, City of Vista Economic Development wrote:
business news & insights header
ADD TO PACKET
D2
From:support weirbeer
To:Public Comments
Cc:Rachel Beld
Subject:Agenda Item D2 – 11/12/2024
Date:Tuesday, November 12, 2024 2:00:16 PM
To whom it may concern,
As a brand new brewery tasting room in Vista, we are so excited to be a part of this community. One thing we have heard over and over again from members of this community is "Oh, I never knew anything was on this street"
While we are not the first brewery on Keystone way, it was still shocking to hear after years of multiple brewery tasting rooms presence and advertising in the business park, that our neighbors have still had trouble finding us. That is why I am putting my full support in favor of allowing A-frame signs in the business park for our community to find us, so we can continue to thrive as a member and small business in this community.
Thank you very much!
Kyndall Weir, Owner and VP of Weir Beer Company
Team Weir Beer
1250 Keystone Way, Vista 92081
(760) 536-3012