HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC Resolution 2016-0024EXHIBIT A: Categorical Exemption
PLN 2013-1462 / ZCH 2013-0168
Title 9 Zoning Ordinance Text Amendments
EXHIBIT B: Zone Text Change – Title 9 Zoning Ordinance
PLN 2016-1608 – Sign Ordinance Revisions
Chapter 15
SIGNS
Sections:
9-15.001 Title and intent.
9-15.002 DefinitionsIntent.
9-15.003 Applicability.
9-15.004 Sign Exempt Signsdesign standards.
9-15.005 Allowed signs.Sign Permits Required
9-15.006 Exceptions to sign standards.
9-15.007006 Sign construction standards.Prohibited Signs
9-15.008007 Sign maintenance.Allowed Signs By Zone
9-15.009008 Sign permit application package.Types of Signs & Standards
9-15.010009 Legal nonconforming signs.Freeway Signs
9-15.010 Sign Materials, Design & Calculations
9-15.011 Code enforcement.Design Exceptions
9-15.012.1 Private placement on right-of-way.Sign Maintenance and Abandoned Signs
9-15.012.2 Sign area.
9-15.012.3 Height.
9-15.012.4 Posting on structures.
9-15.013 Private placement.Non-Conforming Signs
9-15.014 Code Enforcement
9-15.015 Signs on City Property
9-15.016 Substitution Clause
9-15.017 Severability Clause
9-15.018 Definitions
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 public’s 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.
9-15.002 Intent
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.;
(g) Permit noncommercial 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. (Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 255 § 2, 1992)
9-15.003 Applicability.
(a) General.
(1a) The provisions of this chapter are applicable to all signs constructed or altered
after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapterof the ordinance codifying this
chapter.
(2b) 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.
(3c) 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.
(5d) The sign design standards herein are intended to be the maximum standards
allowable without an administrative use permit or conditional use permit.
9-15.004 Exempt Signs
Types of exempt signage. The following sign types are exempt from building permits consistent
with the provided standards. Size and placement standards noted below and in subsequent
sections must be adhered to in order to qualify as exempt.
(a) Signs on Properties Under Construction. With an aggregate area of forty (40)
square feet, attached to a fence or construction related structure, not exceeding eight (8) feet in
height, and made of a lightweight material such as vinyl. One (1) sign per street frontage.
(b) Directory Signs. Wall mounted for pedestrian use, with an aggregate area of
twenty (20) square feet, not exceeding eight (8) feet in heightplaced lower that 65-feet on the
wall surface.
(c) Non-illuminated Decorations. Special event decorations, may be in place up to
sixty (60) days, except for signage listed in section 9-15.006.
(d) Hazard Signs. As long as a hazard exists.
(e) Residential Signs and Home Occupations. With an aggregate area of fourtwo (42)
square feet.
(f) Window Signs and Lettering. Limited to lettering, graphics and perforated
window film. Maximum area of ½ of the window, where permitted, per tTable 15.-1 and Table
15.2. With an aggregate area not exceeding four (4) square feet, at public entrancesPosting of
signs related to the operation of the business not to exceed (4) square feet (hours, restaurant
ratings, etc.) are excluded from aggregate sign calculations. not included in this maximum area
(g) Official Government Flags. Signs, flags and notices.
(i) Window Lettering. Limited to lettering, graphics and perforated window film, per
Table 15-1.
(jih) Landscaped Signs. Consistent with Section 9-4.127.
(kji) Official Safety and Directional Signs. Safety and directional signage that is
consistent with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, California edition (MUTCD)
and shall not interfere with sight distance requirements or path of travel.
kOfficial Cityand/or signage /orlM.(nmj) Temporary signage in accordance with
Table 15.1 and Table 15.2.
(onk) Vehicle Signs. Painted signs, magnetic signs, decals, or logo wrap adhered to a
vehicle, unless parked for the primary purpose of displaying the sign, refer to section 9-
15.006(g).
9-15.004005 Sign Sign design standards.Permits Required
(a) Except as hereinafter provided, no permanent sign shall be constructed, displayed
or altered without an approved sign building permit. Signs are permitted under the various use
classifications or locations specified in this chapter.
(b) The application requirements, processing, review and approval for a sign permit
shall be as set forth in Section 9-15.004 of this chapter..005(d)Where noted in this code,
additional Planning Entitlements may be required for signage that does not conform to the
specified sign regulations or when noted as required based on signage type or location.
(c1) When signs are proposed for a project subject to entitlement approval, a separate
sign permitentitlement is not required. The application for entitlement and sign shall include
complete information per Section 9-15.009 of this chapterthis section, and any other information
determined to be necessary for planning divisioncommunity development department review.
(ad) Permit RequirementsApplication. Applications for a sign building 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 agent’s signature.
(2) Site Plan. Showing location of all existing structures on site, and location of .
Show location of proposed sign(s) with all distances to structures and property lines noted. . 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 debt 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 For
a 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,
and/or a color rendering for all signs including rendering of full building elevations for sign
program applications. If a master sign program is required, provide colored drawings for
proposed signs on building wall elevations. Include manufacturer’s color and materials’ names.
(5) Structural Calculations. When applicable, provide all structural specifications and
calculations calculations by a licensed architect or civil engineeras required by the Chief
Building Official or their designee. (Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 255 § 2, 1992) (a)
Agricultural Zone Signage. Unlighted, with an aggregate area of thirty-two (32) square
feet. One (1) sign per street frontage.
(b) Signage on properties under construction. With an aggregate area of forty (40)
square feet, not exceeding eight (8) feet in height. One (1) sign per street frontage.
(c) Directory Signs. Wall mounted for pedestrian use, with an aggregate area of
twenty (20) square feet, not exceeding eight (8) feet in height.
(d) Decorations. Special event decorations, may be in place up to sixty (60) days,
except for signage listed in section 9-15.007.
(e) Hazard Signs. As long as a hazard exists.
(f) Residential Signs and Home Occupations. With an aggregate area of four (4)
square feet.
(g) Window Signs. With an aggregate area not exceeding four (4) square feet, at
public entrances.
(h) Official Government Flags. Signs, flags and notices.
(i) Window Lettering. Limited to lettering and graphics with an aggregate area not to
exceed fifty percent (50%) of the window area.
(j) Landscaped Signs. Consistent with Section 9-4.127.
(k) 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
(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 (1) 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 (1) 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.
(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. (Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 255 § 2, 1992)
(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. (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.
(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.
9-15.006. Prohibited Signs
Prohibited Signs. The Following sign types are prohibited within the City of Atascadero.
(a) 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, except as approved
through agreement with the Redevelopment Agency, or its successor agency and except as noted
below for off-site subdivision signage;
(b) Abandoned Signs. A sign is considered abandoned where when any of the
following is met:
(i) For for a period of ninety (90) days or more, there is no sign copy
appearing on the sign;
(ii) or Wwhere the establishment to which the sign is attached has ceased
operation and where it is clear that the sign has been forsaken and desertedis no longer use;
(ii) W or where the sign is fifty percent (50%) or more deteriorated, damaged
or destroyed to 50% or greater of the replacement value of the structure/sign;
(c) Confusing signs that simulate in color or design any traffic sign, or signal, or
which makes use of words, symbols, or characters in such a manner to interfere with, mislead, or
confuse pedestrian or vehicular traffic;
(d) Digital display / LED messaging signs including Animatedanimated, moving,
flashing, blinking, reflecting, glaring, or revolving, or any other similar sign, except electronic
message boards displaying time, temperature, or required prices of gasoline or similar fuels, or
the display of noncommercial notices or messages;
(e) Roof signs;
(f) Snipe signs or any other sign attached to a tree, utility pole, fence post, etc.;
(g) Commercial Signs on vehicles when the vehicle is parked for the purpose of
displaying said sign and /or directing traffic to a business when any of the following is met:
(i) Location. Vehicle(s) is parked off-premise;
(ii) Time. Vehicle is parked for a duration of more than two (2) hours within a 24-
hour period of time, off-premise.
(h) Inflatable signs;
(i) Digital display / LED messaging signs;
(ji) Wall mounted cabinet signage where the frame or external structure is a box,
either in rectangular, square, or similar box like appearance, and the sign face is flat and/or the
background is light colored and non-decorative in nature, with little or no articulation and
comprised of plastic, or other similar type of material;
(kj) Feather flag signage;
(lk) Signage, including non-commercial signage that is placed or encroaches into the
right-of-way without a valid encroachment permit or prior approval of the City Engineer or their
designee for the purpose of safety or traffic control.
9-15.007 Allowed Signs By Zone
(a). Permitted Signs by Zones. The following are the signs types that are permitted by
zone as shown in Table 15.1.
Table 15.1 – Allowed Sign Types Based On Zone
Sign Type
P Permitted Sign**
AUP Administrative Use Permit Required**
(blank) Not Permitted
**building permit requirements per section 9-15.005 and 9-15.007**
Total Aggregate sign Area (square feet) and may be divided by using
one (1) or more sign Types
Based on
Sign Type
Based on
Sign Type 150 sf 50 sf 100 sf
Ag Zone Residential
Zones
Non-Residential Zones
(CS, CN, CR, CPK, CT, IP, I)
Downtown
Zones
(DC, DO)
Public Zones
(P, OS, L, LS)
1. A-Frame P P P P
2. Art & Wall Murals AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP
3. Awning P P P P
4. Banner P P P
5. Building Name P P P P P
6. Changeable Copy AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP
7. Freeway Oriented1 AUP
8. Home Occupation P P
9. Information Kiosks
10. Private Light Pole P P P P
11. Monument Sign P P P P
12. Multi-Tenant
Freestanding
P P
13. Projecting P P P
Table 15.1 – Allowed Sign Types Based On Zone
Sign Type
P Permitted Sign**
AUP Administrative Use Permit Required**
(blank) Not Permitted
**building permit requirements per section 9-15.005 and 9-15.007**
Total Aggregate sign Area (square feet) and may be divided by using
one (1) or more sign Types
Based on
Sign Type
Based on
Sign Type 150 sf 50 sf 100 sf
Ag Zone Residential
Zones
Non-Residential Zones
(CS, CN, CR, CPK, CT, IP, I)
Downtown
Zones
(DC, DO)
Public Zones
(P, OS, L, LS)
14. Projected Image P P P P
15. Off-Site Subdivision AUP AUP
16. Neighborhood
Identification
P
17. Single Tenant
Freestanding Sign
P P P
18. Suspended P P P P
19. Temporary For-Sale P P P P
20. Temporary Non-
Commercial
P P P P
21. Tenant Directional P P P P
22. Wall P P P P
23. Window Lettering P P P P
Notes:
1 Freeway signs are regulated by section 9-15.009
9-15.008 Types of Signs & Standards
(a) Allowed Signs and Standards. The following signs are permitted within the City of
Atascadero as shown in Table 15.21 and including size, number of signs, and maximum
size standards. Additional standards may be applicable as contained in this chapter.
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number
of sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
1. A-Frame None All Zoning
Districts
except
Residential
10 sf 1 per
street
frontage
5 ft. (a) Must be located outside of Right-
of-way and on business property,
except as allowed by
encroachment permit in the East
Mall and West Mall parkway
area.
(b) Minimum height is 3-feet.
2. Art and Murals Yes All Zoning
Districts
N/A N/A N/A (a) AUP required prior to installation
for review limited to size,
placement, and duration.
3. Awning Yes All Zoning
Districts
except
Residential
50% of
awning
face
1 per
Business
Based
on
building
height
(a) Minimum vertical clearance from
the ground of eight (8) feet. May
project a maximum of five (5) feet
into the public right-of-way
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number
of sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
(b) Maintain a minimum vertical
clearance from the ground of
eight (8) feet.May project a
maximum of five (5) feet into the
public right-of-way with approved
encroachment permit
A projection into the right-of-way
requires issuance of an
encroachment permit.
(c) Shall be securely attached to the
buildings and well maintained.
(d) No supports or poles may be
located in the public right-of-way.
(e) Shall complement the building
they are attached to.
4. Banner No All Zoning
Districts
except Ag
&
Residential
40 sf 1 per
Public
street
frontage
N/A (a) May be in place for a maximum
of thirty (30) days.
(b) All banners must be down a
minimum of sixty (60) days
before any new banner may go
up
(c) Banners must be secured flat
against a building or secure
structure placed in the ground.
(d) Nonprofit events shall be exempt
from size and number of banners
(e.g., farmers market).
5. Building Name
Identification
Yes All Zoning
Districts
except Ag
&
Residential
20 sf 1 per
building
Based
on
building
height
(a) Signage used to identify the
building not the tenant(s).
6. Changeable
Copy
Yes All Zoning
Districts l
Based on
AUP
1 per
business
12 ft. (a) AUP required.
(b) Size of changeable copy to be
determined by the AUP.
(c) Design of changeable copy sign
shall be determined by AUP.
(d) Sign is non-digital.
7. Freeway
Oriented
Yes N/A* N/A* N/A* *Refer to section 9-15.010
8. Home
Occupation
No All Ag &
Residential
Zones
42 sf 1 per
homeresid
ential unit
4 ft (a) Requires issuance of a valid
business license prior to
placement.
(b) Signage is permitted as a part of
a residential occupancy in a
mixed-use development.
9. Information
Kiosks
Yes All Zoning
Districts
Based on
AUP
Based on
AUP
Based
on AUP
(a) For the permanent and / or
temporary display of information.
(b) Limited to civic activities,
advertising for local events.
(c) AUP required.
10. Private Light
Pole3
Yes Non-
Residential
Zones /
6 sf for
each pole
25% of the
total
number of
Based
on Light
Pole
(a) A permanent light pole within a
parking lot or property may be
utilized for temporary banner or
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number
of sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
Public
Zones/
Public
Zones
light poles; Height signage that does not count
towards total aggregate sign
area.
(b) Eight (8) feet minimum vertical
clearance or as required by the
California Building Code,
whichever is greater.
(c) Light Pole located on private
property.
(d) A maximum of two (2) signs per
pole.
(e) Temporary sSignage on poles
shall be placed within decorative
frames or brackets.
11. Monument
Sign
Yes All Zoning
Districts
Except
Residential
60 sf
CN, CP,
CR, CS,
CT, CPK,
IP, I
1 per 200
lineal foot
6 ft. (a) Minimum base height shall be
one (1) foot.
(b) Maximum base height shall be
four (4 feet)
(c) Base does not count towards
sign face area.
(d) Base shall have decorative
hardscaping and shall be
consistent with the architecture of
the building(s) it serves.
(e) Bases shall be located in a
landscape planter.
(f) Cabinet type signs shall be
prohibited.
(g) Monument signs in DO/DC
require a building to be setback a
min. of 10-feet from back of walk.
(h) Bases shall be located in a
landscape planter and setback
three (3) feet from the back of
sidewalk in the DO/DC zone.
50 sf
L,LS,P,OS
40 sf
DC, DO,
AG
12. Multi-Tenant
Freestanding
Yes Non-
Residential
Zones
50 sf
+
additional
10 sf per
tenant
Max. 100 sf
1 per
property
12 ft (a) Two (2) or more tenants
required.
(b) Minimum base height shall be
four (4) feet.
(c) Base does not count towards
sign face.
(d) Base Articulation. Base shall be
consistent with architecture of
multi-tenant building.
(e) Bases shall be located in a
landscape planter and setback
five (5) feet from the back of
sidewalk.
(f) Cabinet monument type shall be
prohibited.
(g) A singular pole is prohibited.
13. Projecting Yes All Zoning
Districts
except Ag
15 sf 1 per
business
N/A (a) Minimum ground clearance must
be eight (8) feet, or as regulated
by the California Building Code.
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number
of sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
&
Residential
(b) May encroach up to five (5) feet
within the public right-of-way with
issuance of an encroachment
permit.
14. Projected
Image
No*
*Electrical
permit may
be required.
All Zoning
Districts
except Ag l
N/A 1 per
business /
residence
N/A (a) Laser lights or projected image
signs used to project an image,
logo, or other graphic in a
building, structure, sidewalk or
other surface.
(b) Project image signs may be in
place a maximum of thirty (30)
calendar days and not be utilized
for a minimum of sixty (60) days
thereafter.
(c) Installation of new electrical
components shall be consistent
with the California Building Code
or successor code.
(d) Flashing , distracting lights shall
not be utilized.
15. Off-Site
Subdivision
Yes Ag &
Residential
Zones /
Non-
Residential
Zones
w/ AUP
40 sf 3 per
subdivision
10 ft. (a) Subdivision tracts of five (5) or
more lots may be permitted to
install off-site directional
advertising signage.
(b) Subject to the approval of an
AUP.
(c) Subdivision shall be located
within the City of Atascadero.
(d) No flags, banners or other
decorations shall be affixed to
the sign.
(e) The signs shall not be
illuminated.
(f) All signs shall be located on
private property with written
permission from the property
owner provided to the City.
(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 whichever is less.
(h) The applicant may apply
annually for a one (1) year time
extension for active construction
projects.
16. Neighborhood
Identification
Yes Residential
Zones
36 sf 1 per
arterial /
collector
street
frontage
6 ft (a) Residential Single Family / Multi-
Family Developments of five (5)
units or more.
(b) Minimum base height shall be
one (1) foot.
(c) Maximum base height shall be
three (3 feet)
(d) Base does not count towards
sign face area.
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number
of sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
(e) Base shall have decorative
hardscaping and shall be
consistent with the architecture of
the building(s) it serves.
(f) Bases shall be located in a
landscape planter on private
property,
(g) Cabinet type signs shall be
prohibited.
(h) Signs shall front on either a
designated arterial or collector
road.
17. Single Tenant
Freestanding
Yes All Zoning
Districts
except
Residential
60 sf 1 per
property
6 ft (a) Sign face shall be elevated, a
minimum of one (1) foot off the
ground.
(b) Bases shall be located in a
landscape planter and setback a
minimum of two (2) feet from the
back of sidewalk.
(c) Cabinet monument type shall be
prohibited.
(d) A singular pole is prohibited.
(e) Signs in DO/DC require a
building to be setback a min. of
10-feet from back of walk.
18. Suspended Yes All Zoning
Districts
except Ag
&
Residential
15 sf 1 per
public
street
frontage
N/A (a) Minimum ground clearance of
eight (8) feet or as regulated by
the California Building Code or
successor code.
19. Temporary
For-Sale
No All Zoning
Districts
6 sf all
other lots
1 sign per
street
frontage;
1 sign per
highway
frontage
6 ft. (a) Signs must be removed fourteen
(14) days after use is no longer
requiredclose of sale.
32 sf for
lots fronting
a highway
20. Temporary
Non-
Commercial
No All Zoning
Districts
6 sf for
yard sign
1 per
property
5 ft (a) A maximum of nine (9) months.
(b) Must be removed a minimum of
ninety (90) days before any new
non-commercial signage may be
placed.
(c) Prohibited in the public right-of-
way.
32 sf
freestanding
21. Tenant
Directional
No All Zoning
Districts
N/A N/A 5 ft. (a) Does not count against total
aggregate sign area.
(b) Design shall be consistent with
the architectural style and
features of the building façade.
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number
of sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
22. Wall Yes All Zoning
Districts
except
Residential
40 sf in P,
L, LS
zones
1 per
building
face with a
public
street
frontage or
parking lot
Based
on
building
height
(a) May not exceed one (1) square
foot per lineal foot of building
frontage.
(b) For tenants greater than 10,000
square feet in size, an additional
one hundred and fifty percent
(150%) more sign area may be
permitted.
(c) 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.
(d) Painted signs do not require
building permits but required
planning review.
Based on
building
frontage
for all other
non-
residential
zones
23. Window
Lettering /
Perforated
Window Film /
Window
Graphics
No All Zoning
Districts
except Ag
&
Residential
Not to
exceed 1/2
of window
area in all
other
zones
* * *See section 9-15.004(f)
Not to
exceed 1/3
of window
area in
DC/DO
Zone
Notes:
1. Maximum Sign Area measured in square feet (sf).
2. Maximum Height measured in feet (ft) and from finished grade for all sign types.
3. Additional Light Pole signage regulations contained in subsection 9-15.0087(b)(2).
(b) Special Sign Types and Criteria. The following are additional signage types defined by
the City and criteria required for their uses.
(1) Gas Station Canopies. In addition to the signs allowed above, a maximum of
twenty (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.
(2) Light Pole Signage. The following shall be prohibited to be placed on light poles:
(a) Posting of signage or messages above the height of the light pole structure;
(b) Digital display message signs;
(c) Internally illuminated signage;
(d) Changeable copy signage;
(e) Faded, torn, or otherwise damaged signage.-elements
(13) Banner or Temporary Signs. Constructed from nonpermanent material, (e.g.
paper, canvas, vinyl, etc.).
(i) Maximum Number and Area. Each business may have one (1) banner sign per
public street frontage, with a maximum area of forty (40) square feet.
(ii) Limits on Time Displayed. Temporary signs may be in place for a maximum of
thirty (30) days. All banners must be down a minimum of sixty (60) days before any new banner
may go up. Banners may remain up during the entire permanent sign permit process.
(iii) Placement. Banners must be secured flat against a building or secure structure.
(iv) Exceptions. Nonprofit events shall be exempt from size and number of banners
(e.g., farmers market). (b) Portable Signs and A-frame Signs.
(1) One (1) portable sign per street frontage.
(2) Maximum size of portable sign is not to exceed two (2) feet wide by five
(5) feet tall. Minimum height is three (3) feet tall.
(3) Portable and A-frame signs must be located on the business’s property.
(1) Time Displayed. 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 message, consistent with this section.
(2) Sign Area. The maximum allowable sign area is six (6) square feet per
sign for yard signage. A maximum of thirty-two (32) square feet for freestanding signs (8)
Off-Site Subdivision Signs. Subdivision tracts of twenty (20) or more lots may be
permitted to install off-site directional advertising signage subject to the approval of an
administrative use permit subject to the following conditions:
(i) The subdivision tract shall be located within the City of Atascadero;
(ii) No more than three (3) signs shall be allowed with a maximum height of fifteen
(15) feet and sixty (60) square feet of sign area;
(iii) No flags, banners or other decorations shall be affixed to the sign;
(iv) The signs shall not be illuminated;
(v) All signs shall be located on private property with written permission from the
property owner provided to the City;
(vi) A building permit shall be obtained for the signs;
(vii) The signs shall be removed prior to final occupancy of the last unit in the tract or
after a period of three (3) years whichever is less. The applicant may apply annually for a one (1)
year time extension for active construction projects.
(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.
9-15.005 Allowed signs. (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) Advertising on Public Transit Facilitiesies. 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 (1) on each side, neither of which exceeds six (6) square feet. Signs
on benches shall be limited to one (1) 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. (Ord. 499 § 2, 2006; Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 376 § 2 (Exh. A), 2000; Ord.
354 § 1, 1998; Ord. 255 § 2, 1992)
9-15.009 Freeway Signs
(6) Freeway Signs. In addition to the signs allowed abovein Table 15-1 and Table 15-
2, sitesFreeway oriented signs shall adhere to the below standards. 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:Approval of an AUP shall be required
for all Freeway oriented signage.
(ai) 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 9-15.00611(c)).
(bii) 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.
(ciii) 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.
(d) 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 fourteen (14) inches.
(e) 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 or externally lit individual letters.
9-15.010 Sign Materials, Design & Calculations
(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 (1) sign face only.
(b) Wall Mounted Letters/Logos. 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 (1) 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.
(f) Sign Programs. A master sign program must be provided for locations with five
(5) or more tenants or businesses. Such programs shall be approved by an AUP or concurrently
with at eh CUP for the development. Sign programs may also include wayfinding programs or
civic sign programs.
(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.
(h) 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.
(i) Temporary Freestanding Signage. Temporary signs freestanding signage
displaying either a commercial or non-commercial message shall adhere to 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.
(j) Code Standards. All signs established in this City must comply with all current
editions of the California Building Code, or successor adopted building code for anchoring,
foundations, wind loads, illumination, and design standards. Awning Signs and projecting signs
require structural plans to be done by a licensed architect or civil engineer.
9-15.006011 Exceptions to sign standardsDesign Exceptions.
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 findings shall be consideredmade:
(a) The need for such signing is based on the purposes set forth in Section 9-
15.001002;
(b) The opportunity to combine signs for more than one (1) use on a single sign
structure has been considered;
(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 review guidelines. (Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 255 § 2, 1992)
9-15.007 Sign construction standards.
(Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 255 § 2, 1992)
9-15.008012 Sign maintenance and Abandoned Signs.
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 of the replacement cost of the sign or
deteriorated, must be repaired and brought into conformance with this chapter will be presumed
to be abandoned as defined in Section 9-15.003018.(d)(2).
(Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 255 § 2, 1992)
9-15.009 Sign permit application package.
9-15.010013 Legal nonconforming Non-conforming 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 six (36) months or more, any signing
signage except for an off-premises sign shall be removed and 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. (Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 255
§ 2, 1992)
9-15.011014 Code Eenforcement.
The provisions of this chapter shall be enforced pursuant to Section 9-8.101 et seq., of
Title 9. (Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 255 § 2, 1992 and Title 12, Code Enforcement or its successor
code. )
9-15.012.4 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.
(a) 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.
(b) No permit nor deposit is required for the posting of temporary signs on public
property by the City. (Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 255 § 2, 1992)
9-15.013015 Private placement.Signs on City Property
Any sign placed on property owned by the City of Atascadero, or within the right-of-way
of a dedicated public street 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.
9-15.016 Substitution Clause
Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary, the extent that this section
allows a sign containing a commercial message, a non-commercial message shall be allowed to
the same extent. The non-commercial message may occupy the entire sign area or any portion
thereof, and may substitute or be combined with the commercial message. The sign message may
be changed from commercial to non-commercial message to another, as frequently as desired by
the sign’s owner, provided that the sign is not prohibited and the sign continues to comply with
all requirements of this section.
9-15.017 Severability Clause
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phase of this sign ordinance is for any
reason held to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of
this sign ordinance. The City Council of the City of Atascadero hereby declares that it would
have adopted the Sign Ordinance in each section, subsection, sentence, or phase thereof,
irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phases be
declared invalid.
9-15.002018 Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply:
(a) Abandoned Signs. A sign is abandoned when for a 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 for a period of ninety (90) days or more, 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 (1) or more lots or
building sites containing three (3) 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.
Building Frontage. Building Face that fronts a public street or shared common parking
area within a commercial center, measured in linear feet from the edge of wall to the edge of
wall.
Cabinet Sign. Also referred to as “can sign”. A sign that contains all the text and/or logo
symbols on the display face of an enclosed cabinet
(h) Canopy Sign. 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 Sign. A sign with changeable copy, regardless of the method
of attachment or the materials of construction, that is non-digital.
(j) 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.
(l) 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.
Construction. A property that has been issued a building permit by the City of
Atascadero for activities related to demolition, remodel, or new construction of a property.
Digital Display. The portion of a sign message made up of internally illuminated
components capable of changing a message periodically. Digital displays may include but not
limited to LCD, LED, plasma, or high intensity displays (hid).
(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 provisio ns 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.
Feather Flag. Also known as a blade sign, teardrop sign, or similar type of temporary
signage that is constructed of cloth, canvas, plastic fabric, or similar lightweight, non-rigid
material and that is supported by a single vertical pole mounted into the ground or portable
structure for means of advertising.
(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 such 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.
(v) Incidental Sign. 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 noncommercial 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 Nonconforming Sign. A sign which was legal when first erected, with all
necessary permits, but due to a change in the law it became nonconforming.
Light Pole Signage. A temporary banner or sign that id designed to be attached to a
permanent light pole and where the temporary sign element can be changed without modifying
the structure.
(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 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 (45) degrees from
each other.
Murals. A large picture, image (including but not limited to painted art) which is painted,
constructed, or affixed directing only a vertical building wall, which may or may not contain
text, logos, and/or symbols. May also include a mural sign.
(dd) Noncommercial Signage. Any signage which is not determined to be commercial
signage, as defined herein.
(ee) Noncommercial Speech. Any message which is not determined to be commercial
speech as defined herein.
(ff) Nonstructural 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 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.
(jj) Permanent Sign. Any legal sign designed or used in excess of forty-five (45)
days.
(kk) Permitted Sign. Signs permitted pursuant to this article.
(ll) Pole Signs. A sign wholly supported by one (1) or more poles and otherwise
separated from the ground by air.
(mm) Portable Sign or A-frame Sign. Any freestanding, moveable sign.
(nn) Prohibited Signs. Signs specified in Section 9-15.003(d)007 of this chapter or
any sign not specified in Section 9-15.0058 through 9-15.010, nor in compliance with the design
criteria for this chapter.
(oo) 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.
(pp) Project Entrance Sign. An on-site sign used to identify the name of an apartment
housing complex, mobilehome park, condominium subdivision or other residential subdivision.
Projected Image Sign. A sign which involves an image projected on the face of a wall,
structure, sidewalk, or other surface from a distant electronic device such that the image does not
originate from the plan of the wall, structure, sidewalk, or other surface.
(qq) Public Service Sign. A noncommercial 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 chapter.
(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:
(1) 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;
(2) Flags and other insignia of any government not displaying a commercial message;
(3) Legal notices, identification, informational or directional/traffic controlling
devices erected or required by government agencies;
(4) Decorative or architectural features of buildings, except letters, trademarks or
moving parts;
(5) Holiday decorations and lights;
(6) Government traffic controlling devices are not considered signs for purposes of
this chapter 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 (2) or more faced signs or type signs having any interior angle of more than forty-five
(45) degrees (multi-faces signs) shall be the total area of all faces or panels. If all interior angles
are forty-five (45) degrees 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.
Temporary For Sale Sign. Temporary signage for properties that are for sale or rent.
Yard Sign. A sign no larger than five (5) square feet in size comprised of light weight
material such as vinyl, canvas, fabric, or other similar materials that are staked, or framed in the
ground.(Ord. 499 § 2, 2006; Ord. 400 § 1, 2002; Ord. 255 § 2, 1992)