HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 400 CERTIFICATION
I, Marcia McClure Torgerson, City Clerk of the City of Atascadero, hereby certify that the
foregoing is a true and correct original of Ordinance No. 400 adopted by the Atascadero City
Council at a regular meeting thereof held on June 11, 2002, and that it has been duly published
pursuant to State Law.
DATED: d�
Marcia McClure Torgerson
City Clerk
City of Atascadero, California
ORDINANCE NO. 400
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ATASCADERO, CALIFORNIA AMENDING CHAPTER 9-15 OF
THE ATASCADERO MUNICIPAL CODE
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ATASCADERO, CALIFORNIA, DOES
ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Chapter 9-15 of the Atascadero Municipal Code is hereby amended in its
entirety to read as follows:
9-15.001 Title and intent.
This chapter shall be known and cited as the Sign Ordinance of the City of Atascadero. This
chapter is based on the City's responsibility to protect the general publics health,safety and welfare.
The spirit of this chapter is based on the City's desire to protect the economy and aesthetics of the
community. The City finds that it is in the interest of both aesthetics and traffic safety that sign
information be kept to a minimum.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish sign regulations that are intended to:
(a) Maintain and improve the aesthetic environment and overall community appearance to
foster the City's ability to attract sources of economic development and growth;
(b) Encourage the effective use of signs as a means of communication in the City and reduce
possible traffic and safety hazards from confusing or distracting signs;
(c) Implement quality sign design standards that are consistent with the City's General Plan,
Zoning Ordinance and Appearance Review Guidelines;
(d) Enable fair and consistent enforcement of these sign regulations;
(e) Minimize possible adverse impacts of signs on private and public property in order to
maintain property values and to maintain a positive City image
(f) Enhance traffic safety by ensuring that signage does not distract,obstruct or otherwise
impede traffic circulation and to safeguard and preserve the health,property, and public welfare of
Atascadero residents through prohibiting, regulating, and controlling the density, location, and
maintenance of signs.
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Ordinance No. 400
Page 2
(g) Permit non-commercial signage wherever other signage is permitted within Chapter 9-
15 subject to the same standards and total maximum allowances for a site of each sign type specified
in this Chapter.
9-15.002 Definitions
For the purposes of this Chapter, the following definitions shall apply:
(a) Abandoned Signs A sign is abandoned when fora period of ninety(90)
days or more,there is no sign copy appearing on the sign,or where the establishment with which the
sign is associated has ceased operation,or where it is relatively clear that the sign has been forsaken
or deserted. Any sign which is a conforming sign not in use, but which could be re-used in
conjunction with the ownership or operation of a new business on a property,shall not fall under the
definition of abandoned.
(b) Alteration Any change of size,shape,illumination,position,location,construction or
supporting structure of an existing sign.
(c) Animated Sign A sign with action or motion, rotating, flashing or color changes,
excepting therefrom wind actuated elements such as flags, banners, streamers, whirligigs or other
similar devices, and public service signs such as time and temperature units.
(d) Balloon, Inflatable Signs, or Inflatable Attention-getting Devices Any air or gas
filled device located, attached, or tethered to the ground, site, merchandise, building, or roof and
used for the purpose of signage, advertising, or attention-getting.
(e) Banner Any sign of lightweight fabric or similar material that is attached to a
building or other structure erected for another purpose. Flags,as defined in this Section,shall not be
considered banners.
(f) Building Complex A building or group of buildings on one or more lots or building
sites containing three or more separate businesses or industrial uses and sharing common parking
facilities.
(g) Building Face The outermost surface of any exterior wall of a building, but not
including cornices,bay windows,balconies,or other architectural features which extend beyond the
general outermost surface of such exterior wall.
(h) Canopy gn Any sign that is part of a projecting awning, canopy, or other fabric,
plastic, or structural protective cover over a door, entrance or window or outdoor service area, or
otherwise attached to a building face.
(i) Changeable Copy gn A sign with changeable copy, regardless of the method of
attachment or the materials of construction.
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Ordinance No.400
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0) Commercial Speech Any message, the prevailing thrust of which is to propose a
commercial transaction.
(k) Commercial Signage Any sign with wording, logo, or other representation that,
directly or indirectly, names, advertises, or calls attention to a business, product, service, or other
commercial activity.
(1) Corner Clear Zone The area at a street corner inscribed by a line drawn between
points established by measuring back fifteen(15) feet from the beginning of the curb radius along
the curb line, or edge of pavement when there is no curb, and the face of the curb or edge of
pavement.
(m) Dormer A structure located above the height of a wall projecting from a sloping roof
that is enclosed on both sides and top, and does not project above top of the roof structure.
(n) Dwelling Unit Any building or portion thereof which contains living facilities,
including provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.
(o) Enforcement Officer Any City official or agent designated by the City Manager as
having authority to enforce the provisions of this Article.
(p) Flag A device, generally made of flexible materials,usually cloth,paper or plastic,
usually used as a symbol of a government, school, or religion, and not containing a commercial
message.
(q) Freestanding Sign Any sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on,or
anchored in,the ground which are independent from any building or other structure. This definition
may include pole signs, ground signs and monument signs.
(r) Ground Sign Any freestanding sign greater than six(6)feet in height and supported
wholly by uprights,braces,or poles in or upon the ground and where any supports or angle irons are
enclosed in a wood,plastic,metal or other decorative form, such that the angle irons or supports are
not visible. The entire bottom of a ground sign is generally in contact or in close proximity to the
ground.
(s) Height The height of any sign shall be the measurement from the top of the sign
cabinet, including all ornamentation and supports, to the existing grade beneath the sign.
(t) Illegal Sign Any sign placed without all required governmental approval and/or
permits at the time said sign was placed or is an existing sign which was not constructed in
accordance with the ordinances and other applicable laws in effect on the date of construction,did
not receive government approval or permits, or a legal nonconforming sign that has exceeded its
authorized amortization period.
(u) Illuminated Sign Any sign employing the use of lighting sources for the purpose of
decorating, outlining, accentuating or brightening the sign area.
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Ordinance No.400
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(v) Incidental Sian A sign,generally informational,that has a purpose secondary to the
use of the lot on which it is located,such as no parking,entrance,loading only,,telephone and
other similar directives. A sign that also includes a commercial message is not considered
incidental.
(w) Institutional Uses whose primary function is furtherance of the public health, safety
and welfare, generally, but not exclusively non-commercial in nature,including,but not limited to
the following:hospitals and similar health care facilities,airports,cemeteries,recreational clubs and
lodges, museums, theaters and similar cultural institutions, churches and similar religious
institutions, detention facilities, fire and police stations, emergency shelters, marinas, parks and
similar recreational facilities, schools and similar educational institutions, public utility facilities
other than business offices.
(x) Legal Non-Conforming Sign A sign which was legal when first erected, with all
necessary permits, but due to a change in the law it became nonconforming.
(y) Lot Any piece or parcel of land or a portion of a subdivision,the boundaries of which
have been established by some legal instrument of record,that is recognized and intended as a unit
for the purpose of transfer of ownership.
(z) Lot Frontage Those portions of a lot or building site which abut a public street. For
purposes of determining frontage on corner lots and through lots, all sides of a lot abutting a public
street(excluding an alley) shall be considered frontage.
(aa) Marquee A permanent roofed structure attached to and supported by the building
and projecting beyond the building face.
(bb) Monument Sign A freestanding sign not exceeding six(6) feet in height which is
supported by a base which extends the entire length of the sign area and is an integral part of the
design.
(cc) Multi-Faced Sign A sign with two or more sign faces where any two sign faces are
oriented such that they have an interior angle of greater than forty-five degrees(451)from each other.
(dd) Non-Commercial Signage_ Any signage which is not determined to be commercial
signage, as defined herein.
(ee) Non-Commercial Speech Any message which is not determined to be commercial
speech as defined herein.
(ff) Non-Structural Trim The molding, battens, caps, nailing strips, lattice, cutouts, or
letters and walkways which are attached to the sign structure.
(gg) Obscene Signs Signage when taken as a whole, which to the average person
applying contemporary statewide standards,appeals to the prurient interest and as a whole depicts or
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Ordinance No. 400
Page 5
describes in a patently offensive way sexual conduct which lacks serious literary,artistic,political or
scientific value.
(hh) Off-Site Commercial Signage Signage that is not located on the site of the business,
accommodations, services, or commercial activity served by the sign.
(ii) On-Site Commercial Signage A sign advertising the business, accommodations,
services or commercial activities provided on the site on which the sign is located.
6j) Permanent Sign Any legal sign designed or used in excess of forty-five (45) days.
(kk) Permitted Sign Signs permitted pursuant to this Article.
(11) Pole Signs A sign wholly supported by one or more poles and otherwise separated
from the ground by air.
(mm) Prohibited Signs Signs specified in Section 9-15.003(d)of this Article or any sign
not specified in Section 9-15.005 nor in compliance with the design criteria of this Article.
(nn) Projecting Sign A sign which projects more than twelve (12) inches from the
exterior face of a building wall or facade and which uses the building wall as its primary source of
support.
(oo) Project Entrance Sign An on-site sign used to identify the name of an apartment
housing complex, mobile home park, condominium subdivision or other residential subdivision.
(pp) Public Service Sign A non-commercial sign that provides general information that
benefits the public, such as electronic changeable time and temperature units. The renewal of any
part of an existing sign for the purpose of its maintenance.
(rr) Roof Sign A sign erected upon or above a roof(angled surface) or a parapet of a
building or structure, and not contained within a dormer(flat surface).
(ss) Setback Area The setback area shall be that area defined as the required minimum
yard as specified by the Zoning Ordinance for each Zoning District, unless a specific setback is
designated within this Article.
(tt) Sign Any device, fixture, placard, or structure that uses any color, form, graphic,
illumination, symbol, or writing to advertise, announce the purpose of, or identify the purpose of a
person or entity,or to communicate information of any kind to the public,with the exception of the
following.
(tt.l) Such devices not exceeding one (1) square foot in area and bearing only property
numbers,post box number, names of occupants or other similar identification on a site.
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Ordinance No.400
Page 6
(tt.2) Flags and other insignia of any government not displaying a commercial message.
(tt.3) Legal notices,identification,informational or directional/traffic controlling devices
erected or required by government agencies.
(tt.4) Decorative or architectural features of buildings,except letters,trademarks or moving
parts.
(tt.5) Holiday decorations and lights.
(tt.6) Government traffic controlling devices are not considered signs for purposes of this
Article due to their distinct purpose.
(uu) Sign Area The entire area contained within the frame,cabinet or fixture, including
all ornamentation or decoration used to attract attention. In the case of pole signs,that area above the
supporting column,provided such supporting column is not decorated or displayed with advertising.
The area of signs painted on walls, individual letter signs, trough signs, and other directly
illuminated signs,shall be calculated on the basis of the smallest rectangle,circle or spherical figure
that will enclose the entire copy area of the sign. The area of any two or more faced signs or type
signs having any interior angle of more than forty-five degrees(45)(multi-faces signs) shall be the
total area of all faces or panels. If all interior angles are forty-five degrees(45)or less,the greatest
sized panel or face shall only be counted as the sign area.
(vv) Sign Copy Any words, letters, numbers, figures, designs or other symbolistic
representation incorporated into a sign with the purpose of attracting attention to the subject matter.
(ww) Sign Face The surface of the sign upon, against,or through which the message is
displayed or illustrated on the sign.
(xx) Sign Structure Any structure that supports or is capable of supporting any sign as
defined in this Section. A sign structure may be a single pole and may or may not be an integral part
of the building.
(yy) Site A lot, or group of contiguous lots, with or without development, in single
ownership, or having multiple owners, all of whom join in an application for signage.
(zz) Street A public or private highway,road or thoroughfare which affords the principal
means of access to adjacent lots.
9-15.003 Applicability
(a) General.
(1) The provisions of this chapter are applicable to all signs constructed or altered after the
effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter.
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Ordinance No.400
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(2) Nonconforming signs shall be revised to conform to the provisions of this chapter
where an entitlement for construction other than minor additions or interior alterations is occurring
or where a change of use occurs.
(3) All signs that are not specifically exempted from this chapter are subject to the
appearance review guidelines and an approved sign permit.
(4) Neon signs visible from the public right-of-way, and change in copy or materials for
existing signs requires Appearance Review by the Planning Division.
(5) The sign design standards herein are intended to be the maximum standards allowable
without an administrative use permit or conditional use permit.
(b) Permits required.
(1) Except as hereinafter provided, no sign shall be constructed, displayed or altered
without an approved sign permit. Signs are permitted under the various use classifications or
locations specified in this chapter.
(2) The application requirements,processing,review and approval for a sign permit shall
be as set forth in Section 9-15.009 of this chapter.
(3) When signs are proposed for a project subject to entitlement approval, a separate sign
permit is not required. The application for entitlement and sign shall include complete information
per Section 9-15.009 of this chapter, and any other information determined to be necessary for
Planning Division review.
(c) Exempt Signs.
(1) Agricultural Signs. Unlighted, with an aggregate area of thirty-two (32) square feet.
One (1) sign per street frontage.
(2) Construction Signs. With an aggregate area of forty(40) square feet, not exceeding
eight(8) feet in height. One (1) sign per street frontage.
(3) Directory Signs. Wall mounted for pedestrian use, with an aggregate area of twenty
(20) square feet, not exceeding eight(8) feet in height.
(4) Holiday Signs. Holiday and special event decorations,for a single holiday,may be in
place up to sixty(60) days.
(5) Real Estate Signs. Located on a lot for sale,lease or rent. Aggregate area up to six(6)
square feet. Sign must be removed fourteen(14)days after sale or transaction has occurred. One(1)
sign per street frontage.
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Ordinance No.400
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(6) Hazard Signs. As long as a hazard exists.
(7) Residential Signs and Home Occupations. With an aggregate area of four(4) square
feet. Apartment, condominium projects with five(5)or more units, and subdivisions may have an
aggregate sign area up to ten(10) square feet.
(8) Window Signs. With an aggregate area not exceeding four(4) square feet, at public
entrances.
(9) Official Government Flags. Signs, flags and notices.
(10) Window Lettering. Limited to lettering and graphics with an aggregate area not to
exceed fifty percent(50%) of the window area.
(11) Landscaped Signs. Consistent with Section 9-4.127.
(12) Safety and Directional Signs. With an aggregate area not exceeding four(4) square
feet. Such signs shall be pedestrian scale. The City has a compelling interest in ensuring traffic and
pedestrian safety. To directly advance that interest, such safety and directional signs are allowed.
(13) Banner or Temporary Signs. Constructed from nonpermanent material, (e.g. paper,
canvas,vinyl,etc.). Each business may have one(1)banner sign per public street frontage,with an
aggregate area of forty(40)square feet. Temporary signs maybe in place for a maximum of twenty
(20) days. Temporary signs may not be put up more then once every sixty(60) days.
(14) Redevelopment Projects. Any sign program approved and entered into by the
Community Redevelopment Agency of Atascadero, so long as the program is otherwise consistent
with the General Plan of the City of Atascadero.
(d) Prohibited Signs.
(1) Off-Premises signs that direct attention to a business, service or product not sold or
offered on the premises on which the sign is located, including billboards;
(2) Abandoned Signs. A sign is abandoned where for a period of ninety(90)days or more,
there is no sign copy appearing on the sign or where the establishment to which the sign is attached
has ceased operation and where it is clear that the sign has been forsaken and deserted or where the
sign is fifty percent(50%) or more deteriorated, damaged or destroyed;
(3) Confusing signs that simulate in color or design any traffic sign,signal or which makes
use of words, symbols or characters in such a manner to interfere with, mislead, or confuse
pedestrian or vehicular traffic;
(4) Animated, moving, flashing, blinking, reflecting, glaring or revolving, or any other
similar sign,except electronic message boards displaying time or temperature or the display of non-
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Ordinance No.400
Page 9
commercial notice services and free speech messages;
(5) Roof signs;
(6) Snipe signs or any other sign attached to a tree, utility pole, fence post, etc.;
(7) Signs on vehicles when the vehicle is parked or placed for the primary purpose of
displaying said sign except a sign painted directly upon, magnetically affixed to or permanently
affixed to the body or other integral part of the vehicle. Such signs shall not be used as a billboard.
Such signs may contain non-commercial messages.
(8) Portable signs not permanently affixed to the ground or a building, and that are not
otherwise allowed in this chapter.
(9) Inflatable signs.
9-15.004 Sign Design Standards.
(a) Sign Faces Counted. Where a sign has two (2) faces containing sign copy, which are
oriented back to back and separated by not more than twenty-four(24)inches at any point,the area
of the sign shall be measured using one sign face only.
(b) Wall Mounted Letters. Where a sign is composed of letters individually mounted or
painted on a building wall, without a border or decorative enclosure, the sign area is that of the
smallest area within which all letters and words can be enclosed.
(c) Three-Dimensional Signs. Where a sign consists of one or more three-dimensional
objects such as balls,cubes,clusters of objects,or sculptural or statute-type trademarks,the sign area
shall be measured as the area of the smallest rectangle within which the object(s) can be enclosed,
when viewed from a point where the largest area of the object(s) can be seen.
(d) Sign Materials and Design. Signs shall utilize materials,colors,and design motifs that
are compatible with the architecture and color of the buildings on-site and adjacent properties. (See
Appearance Review Guidelines)
(e) Sign Messages. Sign messages shall be limited to the identification of the business or
the type of activity conducted on the premises. Sign messages shall use a minimum of graphics,
letters, numbers etc.,to convey the business at the subject location.
(f) Sign Programs. A master sign program must be provided for locations with three(3)or
more tenants or businesses.
(g) Franchise and Logo Signs. Businesses that are part of a franchise or corporation may
not exceed the maximum sign area allowed in their zone including franchise or logo signs.
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Ordinance No.400
Page 10
(h) Monument Signs. All monument signs must have either landscaping or decorative
hardscaping at their base to soften the appearance and incorporate the signs into their
surroundings.
(i) Color banding: The installation or painting of high croma color banding on buildings
and structures shall be defined as a sign and shall be subject to the same size restrictions as other
signs.
9-15.005 Allowed Signs.
(a) Commercial and Industrial Zones. The aggregate sign square footage allowed per site
is one hundred twenty-five (125) square feet. This sign square footage may be divided by using
more than one type of sign,provided that the aggregate sign square footage allowed per sign does not
exceed the following standards:
(1) Wall sign. One(1)wall sign per building face with public street frontage or parking lot
frontage (except those facing a residential zone)per business(up to two (2)businesses at the same
location). Maximum size for wall signs may not exceed one (1) square foot per lineal foot of
business frontage or forty(40) square feet, whichever is less.
(2) Monument Sign. One(1)monument sign per two hundred(200) lineal feet of public
street frontage per site(except streets adjacent to a residential zone). Maximum size of monument
sign is not to exceed sixty(60) square feet, and a maximum height of ten(10)feet from the natural
grade.
(3) Suspended Sign. One(1)suspended sign,with an aggregate area not exceeding fifteen
(15) square feet, and a minimum ground clearance of eight(8) feet or as regulated by the Uniform
Sign Code.
(4) Projecting Sign. One(1)projecting sign with an aggregate area not to exceed fifteen
(15) square feet. Minimum ground clearance must be eight(8)feet,or as regulated by the Uniform
Sign Code. Projecting signs may not be closer than five (5) feet to a public right-of-way.
(5) Tenant Sign. Centers with three (3) or more tenants may have one (1)tenant wall
sign per business street frontage(except streets adjacent to a residential zone). The aggregate area of
tenant signs is not to exceed one (1) square foot per lineal foot of business frontage, or twenty(20)
square feet,whichever is less per tenant. Centers may have one(1)center identification monument
sign per two hundred (200) lineal feet of street frontage, with a maximum sign area of sixty (60)
square feet. Major tenants(ten thousand(10,000) square feet or more)may have one hundred fifty
percent(150%) more wall sign area.
(6) Freeway signs. In addition to the signs allowed above, sites located adjacent to
Highway 101 or a Highway 101 frontage road may be authorized,through administrative use permit,
approval to use a freeway oriented sign as provided below:
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Page 11
(A) Businesses located on freeway frontage of Highway 101, and that are a restaurant,
service station, provide lodging, or are a dealer of new automobiles, may have a pole mounted
freeway oriented sign with an area not to exceed one (1) square foot of sign area per lineal foot of
freeway oriented building frontage up to one hundred fifty(150)square feet,whichever is less. Pole
mounted signs shall not exceed fifty(50)feet in height or the minimum height necessary for effective
visibility(see Section 9-15.006(c)).
(B) Where the principal use is planned shopping,office or industrial complex with five(5)
or more tenants,a building mounted freeway oriented sign may be allowed with a maximum area not
to exceed one(1)square foot for each lineal foot of building frontage up to sixty(60)square feet per
principal tenant, whichever is less.
(C) Where the building area of a single tenant building exceeds ten thousand (10,000)
square feet,a building mounted freeway oriented sign may be allowed with a maximum area not to
exceed one (1) square foot for each lineal foot of building frontage up to sixty (60) square feet,
whichever is less.
Where the building area of a single tenant building is less than ten thousand(10,000) square feet,a
building mounted freeway oriented sign may be allowed with a maximum area of forty(40) square
feet with a maximum letter height of 14-inches.
Freeway wall signs shall be constructed of individual three-dimensional letters or logos.Rectangular
box or cabinet signs shall not be allowed along the US 101 frontage. Signs may be internally
illuminated pan channel letters.
(7) Gas Station Canopies. In addition to the signs allowed above,a maximum of 20 square
feet of signs,logos and or color banding shall be permitted on no more than two(2)sides of a pump
island canopy structure. The remainder of the pump canopy fascia shall be of an architectural
treatment consistent with site architecture.
(8) Off Site Subdivision Signs. Subdivision tracts of 20 or more lots maybe permitted to
install off site directional advertising signage subiect to the approval of an administrative use permit
subject to the following conditions:
(A) The subdivision tract shall be located within the City of Atascadero.
(B) No more than three(3)signs shall be allowed with a maximum height of 15-feet and
60-square feet of sign area.
(C) No flags, banners or other decorations shall be affixed to the sign.
(D) The signs shall not be illuminated.
(E) All signs shall be located on private property with written permission from the
property owner provided to the City_.
(F) A building permit shall be obtained for the signs.
(G) The signs shall be removed prior to final occupancy of the last unit in the tract or
after a period of three(3)years which ever is less. The applicant may apply annually
for a one-year time extension for active construction projects.
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Page 12
(b) Downtown Districts
1. Applicability. Signs within the downtown zoning districts are subject to all applicable
requirements of the City's Sign Ordinance, except as provided by this Section.
2. Design Review. The design,materials,illumination and location of all signs shall be reviewed
for consistency with the Downtown Design Guidelines.
3. Maximum allowed sign area. Each business shall be allowed a total of one square foot of sign
area per linear foot of the street frontage occupied by the business,with a minimum total of 20
square feet allowed for each business, and a maximum total sign area of 50 square feet.
4. Standards for specific types of signs.
i. Wall signs.
a. Maximum number. Each business may have one wall sign,except corner buildings,
which may have two. A single facade may have a wall sign or awning sign
(Subsection D.2), but not both.
b. Height. Wall signs shall be located below the top of the parapet or roofline on single
story buildings and below the second floor sill on multi-story buildings.
c. Placement and materials. The sign may be painted directly on a wall, formed of
individual letters attached to a wall, or consist of a sign panel attached to the wall,
provided that the design is consistent with the architectural style and features of the
building fagade. Internally illuminated "can" signs are not allowed.
ii. Awning signs. Awning signs may be used instead of allowable wall signs on the same
building facade. A logo/insignia or name may be painted, silk-screened, or appliqued
onto the awning.
a. Sign area. The area of signage on an awning shall not exceed 25 percent of the area
of the awning face.
b. Projection and clearance. Awnings may project a maximum of five feet into the
public right-of-way and shall maintain a minimum vertical clearance from the ground
of eight feet.
c. Design. Awnings shall be securely attached to the building and well maintained. No
supports or poles may be located in the public right-of-way. Awnings shall
complement the building they are attached to.
iii. Projecting signs. Projecting signs maybe allowed as follows.
a. Maximum number and area. Each business within the Downtown is allowed a
projecting sign in addition to the wall signs allowed by this Section.
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Page 13
(1) If the projection is two sided, each side of the sign shall be used in the total
allowable area calculation(Subsection C.).
(2) No projecting signs shall exceed nine square feet in area per side.
b. Projection and clearance. Projecting signs may extend five feet into the public right-
of-way and must maintain a minimum vertical clearance of eight feet.
c. Alternative use of decorative pennants. Decorative individual pennants(not strings
of pennants)may be used as an alternative to an allowed projecting sign. Only fabric
pennants may be used. The image may be painted,silk screened or appliqued on the
fabric. Any business logo or insignia shall be included within the total allowable
projecting sign area. All decorative pennants shall be well maintained and of
professional quality.
iv. Monument signs. Uses occupying over 10,000 square feet may be allowed a monument
sign in compliance with the Sign Ordinance,in addition to the sign area and types of signs
allowed by this Section.
v. Window graphics. Window graphics shall not exceed 20 percent of the storefront
window area, or 20 square feet, whichever is less. Window graphics are not counted as
part of the maximum sign area allowed a business.
vi. Multi-Tenant Directory Signs: Multi-tenant directory signs shall not exceed 72-inches
per tenant. The multi-tenant directory signs are allowed in addition to the sign area and
types of signs allowed by this Section, provided that the design is consistent with the
architectural style and features of the building fagade.
vii. Building Name Sign: A building name sign shall not exceed 20 square feet. The building
name sign shall be limited to buildings with at least three tenants and shall identify the
building, not a business within the building. The building name sign is allowed in
addition to the sign area and types of signs allowed by this Section, provided that the
design is consistent with the architectural style and features of the building fagade.
(c) Public and recreation Zones. The following signs are allowed in the P, and L Zones,
provided that the aggregate area of signs per site does not exceed one hundred(100) square feet.
(1) Wall Sign. One(1)wall sign for each public street frontage for business or tenants with
a sign area maximum of ten percent (10%) of the building face or up to a maximum of forty (40)
square feet, whichever is less.
(2) Suspended Sign. One (1) suspended sign for each public street frontage, with a
maximum area of ten(10) square feet for each business or tenant.
(3) Monument Sign. One (1)monument sign for each business per three hundred (300)
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Ordinance No.400
Page 14
lineal feet of public street frontage. Monument signs may have a maximum sign area of forty(40)
square feet, and a maximum height of five (5) feet from the natural grade.
(d) All Zoning Districts. The following signs may be allowed, either by conditional use
permit or administrative use permit, as specified, in all zoning districts.
(1) Community Identification Sign. Community identification signs may be allowed,by
conditional use permit, on arterial streets entering the City with a maximum area of eighty (80)
square feet and a maximum height of twelve(12)feet. Such signs may include the name of the City,
names of civic or religious organizations,and names and locations of City facilities. Such signs shall
not contain the names of businesses of commercial products.
(2) Information Kiosks. Kiosks for the permanent and/or temporary display of
information including community and civic activities, and advertising for local commercial
establishments may be allowed. Approval of the size, location, and maintenance requirements for
such kiosks shall be established through administrative use permit.
(3) Changeable Copy Sign.Approval of the size,location,purpose,design,and content of
changeable copy signs shall be by conditional use permit or administrative use permit as provided in
Section 9-15.003 (d)(7).
(4) Public Transit Facilities. At the discretion of the Community Services Director,
advertising signs may be placed on buses and designated bus stop benches used in connection with a
public transit program provided by the City of Atascadero. Signs on buses shall be limited to one on
each side,neither of which exceeds six(6)square feet. Signs on benches shall be limited to one sign
which shall be placed on the back of the bench and which shall not exceed ten(10)inches by thirty-
six(36) inches. Additional signs and/or modification signs associated with public transit facilities
may be approved through conditional use permit process.
9-15.006 Exceptions to Sign Standards.
The sign area or other limitations of this chapter may be modified, increased or
decreased through approval of an administrative use permit. In reviewing an administrative use
permit,the following criteria shall be considered:
(a) The need for such signing is based on the purposes set forth in Section 9-15.001; and
(b) The opportunity to combine signs for more than one use on a single sign structure has
been considered; and
(c) For freeway oriented signs,the sign area and height are the minimum needed to achieve
adequate visibility along the freeway due to highway ramp locations and grade differences; and
(d) Conformance with all other applicable codes and ordinances of the City,including,but
not limited to, the Zoning Ordinance, General Plan and its several elements, and the appearance
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Ordinance No.400
Page 15
review guidelines
9-15.007 Sign Construction Standards.
(a) Illumination. Signs shall be indirectly lighted by continuous,stationary,shielded light
sources, directed solely at the sign,or internal to it. All light sources for signs are to be shielded so
as not to be directly visible from off-site.
(b) Code Standards. All signs established in this City must comply with all current
editions of the Uniform Building Code, Uniform Electrical Code, and Uniform Sign Code for
anchoring,foundations,windloads,illumination,and design standards. Awning Signs and projecting
signs require structural plans to be done by a licensed architect or civil engineer.
9-15.008 Sign Maintenance.
All signs established in this City are subject to this code regarding safety,maintenance,and
repair. All signs are to be properly maintained in a safe and legible condition at all times. Any sign
that is fifty percent (50%) or more damaged or deteriorated, must be repaired and brought into
conformance with this chapter will be presumed to be abandoned as defined in Section 9-
15.003(d)(2).
9-15.009 Sign Permit Application Package.
(a) Permit Requirements. Applications for a sign permit for the establishment, alteration
or relocation of a sign shall be made to the City,and shall include the following items for processing:
(1) Sign Application Form. Include the name and business address of the applicant and/or
property owner and name and address of agent if applicable, assessor parcel number, legal
description, type and number of sign(s), applicant and property owners signature and agents
signature.
(2) Site Plan. Show location of all existing structures on site. Show location of proposed
sign(s). Note distance of monument signs to structures and public right-of-way,if applicable. Show
any grading required for monument signs.
(3) Elevations. Provide drawings of all building elevations, specifying all dimensions of
signs,including lettering,length,height,width and depth of projecting letters if applicable. Provide
building elevations showing location of existing and proposed signs on walls,including dimensions
to building structural features such as roof,windows, doors and finished grade. If monument sign,
show plan and side views of proposed sign. Also provide all structural support elevations and
details.
(4) Colors and Materials Board. Provide samples of proposed colors and materials for
signs. If a master sign program is required,provide colored drawings for proposed signs on building
wall elevations. Include manufacturers color and materials names.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.400
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(5) Structural Calculations. When applicable, provide all structural calculations by a
licenses architect or civil engineer.
9-15.010 Legal Nonconforming Signs.
The use of a legal nonconforming sign may continue as follows:
(a) Free-Standing and Attached Signs. A legal nonconforming sign shall not be:
(1) Increased in area;
(2) Moved from its location on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title
unless required by law or pursuant to this title;
(3) Be provided with increased or intensified lighting;
(4) Changed to an advertisement for a business not occupying the premises or a product not
sold on the premises.
(b) Sign Copy. The advertising copy on a legal nonconforming sign may be changed,
except as provided by subsections (a), (c) and(d) of this section.
(c) Discontinued Use. If the use of a building or land associated with a legal
nonconforming sign is discontinued for a period of three(3)months or more,any signing except for
an off premises sign shall thereafter conform to the provisions of the chapter.
(d) Public Nuisances. Any nonconforming sign which is found to present danger to the
public or becomes abandoned due to disrepair or lack of proper maintenance may be declared a
public nuisance and abated as set forth in Chapter 9-8 (Enforcement).
(e) Destroyed Signs. If a legal nonconforming sign is destroyed to the extent of fifty
percent(50%)or more of its replacement cost prior to its destruction by fire,explosion or act of God,
it may be restored only if it is brought into full conformance with the provisions of this chapter. If
the sign is damaged to the extent of less than fifty percent(50%)of its replacement cost, it may be
restored to its former legal nonconforming status.
9-15.011 Code Enforcement
The provisions of this chapter shall be enforced pursuant to Section 9-8.101 et seq.of Title 9.
9-15.012(a) Private Placement on Right-of-Way
Time Period. Temporary noncommercial signs may be displayed by or with the permission
of the property owner up to sixty (60) days before and ten (10) days after any official local, state,
regional, or national authorized election. Such signage may carry any form of noncommercial
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Ordinance No.400
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message, consistent with this Article.
9-15.012(b) Sign Area
The maximum allowable sign area is six (6) square feet per sign.
9-15.012(c) Height.
Maximum height of freestanding signs is five (5) feet.
9-15.012(d) Posting on Structures
All signage within the public right-of-way shall be self-supporting and freestanding. No
temporary sign shall be posted on any streetlight, utility pole, post, pole, or structure supporting a
traffic-control sign or signal, fire hydrant, or similar structures in the public right-of-way.
Safety of Placement. Temporary signs posted in the public right-of-way shall meet the
following criteria:
(1) When located in the Corner Clear Zone,the sign shall not exceed thirty(30)inches in
height.
(2) Signs shall not obstruct a motorist's view of pedestrian or vehicular traffic, traffic-
control signs, or signals, or otherwise represent a hazard to vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
(3) Signs shall not impede a pedestrian's free use of the sidewalk.
(4) Signs shall be securely affixed to the property on which they are placed.
(5) Signs may not be posted without the permission of the property owner.
(2) No permit nor deposit is required for the posting of temporary signs on public property
by the City.
9-15.013 Private Placement
Any sign placed on property owned by the City of Atascadero without the permission of the City may
be removed by the City without prior notice. This section shall not be interpreted to violate the First
Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.
SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance takes effect at 12:01 a.m.on the 31 st day after it is adopted. Within fifteen(15)days
after this ordinance is adopted, the City Clerk shall cause it to be published once in a newspaper of
general circulation published and circulated in the City of Atascadero.
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Ordinance No.400
Page 18
SECTION 3, HISTORY
This ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Atascadero on
May 28, 2002, and adopted by the following vote as an ordinance of the City of Atascadero at a
regular meeting of the City Council on June 11, 2002.
AYES: Council Members Clay, Johnson, Luna, Scalise and Mayor Arrambide
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Signe
J. ichael Arrambide
i ayor of the City of Atascadero
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Marcia McClure Torgerson, Cit Jerk A. Hanley, Cit Attorney