HomeMy WebLinkAboutORD NO 3586ORDINANCE NO. _~..8 6
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 17.60 AND
CHAPTER 17.04 OF TITLE SEVENTEEN OF THE
BAKERSFIELD MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO SIGNS
AND ASSOCIATED DEFINITIONS, RESPECTIVELY.
WHEREAS, in accordance with the procedure set forth in the provisions of
Title 17 of the Municipal Code of the City of Bakersfield, the Planning Commission held
a public hearing on a proposal for a comprehensive rewrite of Chapter 17.60 (Signs)
including related changes to Chapter 17.04 (Definitions); and
WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 73-93 on December 2, 1993, the Planning
Commission recommended approval and adoption of said proposal, and this Council has
fully considered the findings made by the Planning Commission as set forth in that
Resolution; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission, as a result of said hearing, did
make several general and specific findings of fact which warranted a negative declaration
of environmental impact and amendments to Chapter 17.60 and the Council has
considered said findings and all appear to be true and correct; and
WHEREAS, the law and regulations relating to the preparation and
adoption of Negative Declarations, as set forth in CEQA and City of Bakersfield's
CEQA Implementation Procedures, have been duly followed by city staff, Planning
Commission and this Council; and
WHEREAS, a Negative Declaration was advertised and posted on October
15, 1993, in accordance with CEQA; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered and hereby adopts the
Planning Commission findings contained in Resolution No. 73-93.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of
Bakersfield as follows:
All of the foregoing recitals are hereby found to be true and
correct.
2. The Negative Declaration is hereby approved and adopted.
3. The amendments to Chapter 17.04 and Chapter 17.60 of Title 17 of
the Bakersfield Municipal Code is hereby approved to read as follows:
CR,GI~L
ECTION 1.
Chapter 17.04 of Title 17 of the Bakersfield Municipal Code is hereby
amended to include the following additions:
17.04.070 Architectural feature or projection.
"Architectural feature or projection" means a marquee, porch, awning, canopy or
other similar architectural feature or projection of a building or structure or any
projection not intended for occupancy which extends beyond the face of an exterior wall
but does not include signs.
17,04.075 Awning or canopy.
"Awning or canopy" means any structure made of flexible fabric or similar
material covering a frame attached or adjacent to a building and projecting over public
or private property.
17.04.085 Building facade.
"Building facade" means that portion of an exterior elevation of a building
extending from grade to the top of the parapet wall or caves and the entire width of the
building elevation.
17.04.287 Freeway.
"Freeway" means a highway in respect to which the owners of abutting lands have
no right or easement of access and which is declared to be a freeway as provided by the
Streets and Highways Code of the state.
17.04.288 Front foot of building occupancy.
"Front foot of building occupancy" means a single lineal dimension measured
horizontally along the front of the building which defines the limits of a particular
occupancy at that location.
17.04.461 Marquee.
"Marquee" means a permanent roofed structure attached to and supported by a
building and projecting over public or private property.
17.04.485 Nonprofit organization.
"Nonprofit organization" means any organization that holds a valid nonprofit
organization status document for the State of California or the federal government.
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ORIGINAL
17.04.492 Parcel of property.
"Parcel of property" means any separate legal lot or parcel of land.
17.04.508 Roofiine.
"Roofline" means the upper exterior line of a roof or top enclosure surface, as
viewed from any side perpendicular to the exterior wall plane and includes caves, fascia,
parapets or similar projections or extensions.
17.04.546 Shopping/business center.
"Shopping/business center" means a group of two (2) or more commercial
businesses planned, constructed and managed as a total entity, and may be linked
together by an architectural, historical or geographic theme, or by a commonality of
goods and services. These businesses function as an integral unit on a single parcel or
separate parcels of property, and share off-street parking facilities, access and pedestrian
ways.
17.04.547 Sign.
"Sign" means and includes every message, announcement, device, declaration,
demonstration, display, illustration, insignia, advertising statuary, surface or space,
including the supporting structure and component parts, erected or maintained for
attraction of, attention to, identification of or advertisement of a business profession,
product or service. Exemptions to this definition are listed in Section 17.60.080.
Specific sign definitions are identified as follows:
"Abandoned sign" means a sign that includes copy that remains in place or is not
maintained, for a period of ninety (90) days or more. which no longer advertises or
identifies an on-going business, product or service available on the premises where the
sign is located.
"Advertising statuary" means a three-dimensional imitation, representation or
similitude of a person, animal' or object which is sculptured, molded or cast in any solid
or plastic substance, materials or fabric and is used for advertising purposes.
"A-Frame" means any sign with two or more faces or surfaces usable for
advertising display, not attached to the wall of a building or structure, wlhether portable
or affixed to the ground and commonly known as A-frame, T-frame and sandwich board.
"Animated sign" means any sign which uses movement or change of lighting to
depict action, or to create a special effect or scene.
"Awning, canopy or marquee sign" means a sign that is mounted on or painted
on, or attached to and awning, canopy, marquee, or other such overhang. Such signs
shall be considered wall signs for the purpose of calculating allowable sign area.~q
ORI(~iNAL
"Banner, flag, pennant, streamer or balloon" means any fabric, bunting, plastic.
paper, or similar material used for advertising purposes attached to or pinned on or
from any structure, staff, pole, line, framing or vehicle, including captive balloons and
other such inflatable signs, but not including official flags of the United States, State of
California and other states of the nation, counties, municipalities, foreign nations and
nationalSinternational nonprofit organizations.
"Bench sign" means a bench located outdoors with advertising matter thereon.
"Building identification sign" means a sign which serves to identify individual
buildings on a site to assist in providing direction to the public. Such sign does not
contain commercial advertisement or business identification.
"Business identification sign" means any sign which is used to identify or advertise
the occupant of a commercial or industrial business.
"Center identification sign" means any sign which is used to identify or advertise
a shopping or business center as defined in this title.
"Commercial sign" means a sign which advertises a product or service for profit or
for a business purpose.
"Construction or home improvement sign" means a temporary sign stating the
names of those individuals, firms or corporations connected with the construction project
and which is placed upon the premises where construction, repair or renovation is in
progress. Said sign may include the name of the city in which their business is located
and emergency telephone numbers.
"Copy" means any words, letter, numbers, figures, designs, or other symbolic
representations incorporated into a sign.
"Directional sign" means an on-premises, incidental sign designed to guide or
direct pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
"Directory" means any sign listing the names, and/or use, and/or location of the
various businesses or activities conducted within a building or group of buildings.
"Electric message board" means a sign with changeable copy system that is
automatically controlled by mechanical, electronic, or computerized means.
"Flashing sign" means any sign which contains or is illuminated by lights which
flash, scintillate, blink, travel, go on and off intermittently, change in intensity or color or
is illuminated by light not providing constant illumination, also including flashing
beacons or flashing arrows and parts of attachments to signs which are illuminated by
such lights.
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"Freestanding sign" means a sign which is supported by one or more columns,
uprights, or braces in or upon the ground and not attached to a building. Monument,
pylon and pole signs are considered freestanding signs.
"Freeway oriented sign" means any pylon sign identifying premises where food,
lodging and places of business engaged in supplying goods and services essential to the
normal operation of motor vehicles and which are directly dependent upon an adjacent
freeway.
"Future facility sign" means a temporary sign which identifies the future use or
tenant, consistent with what use is permitted by the existing zoning of the site.
"Garage sale sign" means a temporary sign which announces the sale of personal
used goods, furniture, or clothing at a residence by the occupant for a limited period of
time. Sign may also be referred to as a yard sale or estate sale.
"Indirectly illuminated sign" means a sign whose illumination is derived entirely
from a light source which is arranged so that no direct rays of light are projected from
such light source into adjacent properties or public streets.
"Logo" means a symbol, design, or graphic representation which may or may not
include text, which identifies a business, activity or company.
"Menuboard" means a sign similar to a readerboard which is a permanent
structure upon which is displayed a menu of items for sale and may or may not include
prices, of which the copy is of a temporary or changeable nature. Advertisement or copy
shall not be displayed on materials constructed of cloth, fabric, paper, cardboard,
placards, or similar such materials.
"Monument sign" means a low profile freestanding sign supported from grade to
the bottom of the sign face with or having the appearance of a solid base. The width of
the base shall be at least seventy five (75) percent of the dimension of the width of the
sign face, and the area of said base shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the allowable
area of the sign face.
"Moving sign" means any sign which has any visible moving part, visible revolving
parts or visible mechanical movement of any description or other apparent visible
movement achieved by electrical, electronic or kinetic means, including intermittent
electrical pulsations. or by action of wind currents.
"Nameplate" means a small sign that contains the name and/or address of the
occupant of a residence or building, and is located near or on the door of the entrance.
"Neighborhood/subdivision identification sign" means a sign which identifies a
single family development, condominium development, or apartment complex. This type
of sign also includes signs identifying public parks.
ORIG~AL
"Nonconforming sign" means a sign which was legally installed under laws or
ordinances in effect prior to the effective date of this title or subsequent revisions as
they pertain to signage, but which is currently in conflict with those provisions. This
definition does not include signs illegally installed contrary to the laws or ordinances in
effect when it was established.
"Off-premise or off-site sign" means a sign that directs attention to a business,
profession, product, commodity, or service that is not the primary business, profession,
product, commodity or service conducted, sold, manufactured or offered on the site on
which the sign is located.
"On-premise or on-site sign" means a sign that directs attention to a business,
profession, product, commodity, or service that is the primary business, profession,
product, commodity or service conducted, sold, manufactured, or offerod on the site on
which the sign is located.
"Outdoor advertising sign (billboard)" means a sign that is rented or leased for
limited durations as specified by Section 17.60.070 E, has temporary or changeable copy,
and is not to be used as permanent off-premises identification sign for a business or
activity, and directs attention to a business, profession, product, commodity or service
that is not the primary business, profession, product, commodity or service conducted,
sold, manufactured or offered on the site on which the sign is located.
"Outlining of a building" means the placing and maintaining of neon tubing,
fluorescent lighting, or incandescent lighting in a line marking the outer limits or edges
of a building or window or roof of a building. Such definition shall not apply to any
customary Chrislmas lighting placed and maintained for a reasonable time during the
holiday season.
"Political election sign" means a temporary sign directly associated with national,
state and local elections.
"Portable sign" means a sign not permanently affixed to the ground or a building
or structure on the premises it is intended to occupy.
"Projecting sign" means an identification sign other than a wall sign, which
projects more than twelve inches from and is supported by, a wall of a building or
structure.
"Promotional sign" means a temporary sign that promotes an individual business'
merchandise, services or products on sale, but does not include the business' name.
"Public service sign" means any sign or portion thereof intended to promote items
of general interest to the community such as public events or public messages, time,
temperature, atmospheric conditions.
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OR,G.'~AL
"Pylon sign" means a freestanding sign that is supported by pylons, pillars, poles,
columns, or similar structures, and that the area between grade and the bottom of the
sign face is more than fifty (50) percent open. Such sign may also be referred to as a
pole sign.
"Readerboard" means a sign which is a permanent structure upon which is
displayed advertising material or copy of a temporary or changeable nature.
Advertisement or copy shall not be displayed on materials constructed of cloth, fabric,
paper, cardboard, placards, or similar such materials.
"Real estate sign" means a temporary sign offering real property, personal
property, or a business, or any combination thereof, for sale, lease or exchange and
includes signs pertinent to open houses and property management. It does not include
merchandise sold in the usual course of business.
"Residential subdivision/project directional sign" means a sign, which informs the
viewer as to the route or change of direction of travel to a new land development
project, containing the name of the project, any characteristic trademark or insignia of
the developer, necessary travel directions and any identifying materials as required by
the city.
"Roof sign" means an identification sign or portion thereof located on, or
extending over the roof line of a building and either supported by the roof of a building
or by independent structural frame. A sign which is attached flat against the wall of a
penthouse or other similar roof structure which is a part of the enclosed floor area of
the building shall be considered a roof sign. Mansard type roof signs or any single-faced
sign attached to or mounted upon a roof which has a slope which exceeds forty-five (45)
degrees from the horizontal plane and which does not project above the highest sight
line of such roof, shall be deemed a wall sign for the purposes of this chapter.
"Rotating sign" means any sign that moves or that portion of any sign which
moves or rotates in any manner.
"Shingle sign" means a sign that is suspended from a marquee, canopy, awning, or
similar overhang, and is oriented to be viewed by pedestrians.
"Skyline building sign" means a wall sign comprised solely of individual letters or
logo that provides long distance visual identification of a building or its primary tenant.
Such sign shall only be permitted for a building that is three (3) or more stories and
shall be located on the top story or between the top story and top of the building.
"Special event sign" means a temporary sign publicizing a unique happening,
action, purpose or occasion. These signs may be promotional; however, the event occurs
infrequently or one time such as grand openings, clearance sales, seasonal sales,
carnivals, and fund raising events.
OR,G,r
"TemporaW sign" means a sign usually constructed of cloth or fabric, cardboard,
wallboard, wood, aluminum, or other light material intended to be displayed for a
limited period of time.
"Vehicle sign" means an advertising display or sign that is exposed to public view,
attached to, painted on, or supported from a parked or mobile automobile, truck trailer
or other mobile vehicle, for the purpose of advertising a business, service or products, or
directing people to a business activity, located on any private or public property, but
shall not refer to standard advertising or identification practices where such sign is
painted on or permanently attached to a commercial or business vehicle used in the
conduct of such business.
"Wall sign" means a sign attached to, embedded in, painted on or erected against
the exterior wall of a building or structure, with the exposed face of the sign in a plane
approximately parallel to the plane of the wall, and does not project more than twelve
inches from the wall that it is attached. Signs attached to or painted on an awning,
canopy, marquee, or other such overhang shall be considered wall signs for the purpose
of calculating allowable sign area.
"Window sign" means any sign painted, attached, glued or otherwise affixed to,
and visibly displayed on the inside or outside of a ground floor window and facing a
public street, walkway, mall or parking lot available for public use. If a window is
painted or otherwise covered in that it resembles the building wall or no longer functions
to provide a view within or outside the building, then any signs within or on that space
shall be considered as and subject to the minimum area permitted for wall signs.
17.04.594 Street.
"Street" means a public thoroughfare which affords the principal means of access
to. abutting property.
17.04.595 Street frontage.
"Street frontage" means the linear frontage of a parcel of property abutting a
street to which legal access is permitted. If legal access to the street is not permitted
either by ordinance, condition of approval, or other such restriction, or access has been
relinquished to a public agency, then that parcel of property shall not be considered to
have street frontage along that street.
17.04.700 Zone.
"Zone" means reference to residential zones or districts, commercial or industrial
zones or districts, or any other such zones or districts as set forth in Chapter 17.06. The
terms "zone" and "district" are used interchangeably.
SECTION 2.
Chapter 17.60 of Title 17 of the Bakersfield Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 17.60
SIGNS
Sections:
17.60.010
17.60.020
17.60.030
17.60.040
17.60.050
17.60.060
17.60.070
17.60.080
17.60.090
17.60.100
17.60.110
17.60.120
Purpose.
Permits.
Comprehensive sign plans.
Sign area computations.
Sign location restrictions.
Sign development standards.
Specialized signs.
Exempt signs.
Prohibited signs.
Non-conforming signs.
Violation and abandonment.
Interpretation and enforcement.
17.60.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to promote the growth of the city in an orderly and
attractive manner and to provide standards to safeguard life, health, property and public
welfare by regulating and controlling the type, number, area, height, quality of materials,
construction, illumination, location and maintenance of all signs and sign structures. The
use of signs is regulated by zone. Their placement and physical dimensions are
regulated primarily by type and length of street frontage. This chapter is not intended
to, nor shall any of its provisions be construed to modify or repeal the Uniform Sign
Code, Chapter 15.36, except as specified.
The sign regulations of this chapter are intended to accomplish the following results:
A. Protect and enhance the character of residential neighborhoods and
property values by prohibiting obtrusive and incompatible signs.
B. Promote and maintain healthy commercial centers and property values for
effective identification and communication of the nature of goods and services and
avoidance of wasteful and unsightly competition in signs.
OR
C. Attract and direct persons to various activities and enterprises, in order to
provide for public convenience.
D. Provide a reasonable system of sign control throughout the city.
E. Encourage signs which are well designed and pleasing in appearance and
to provide incentive and latitude for variety, good design relationship and spacing.
F. Encourage a desirable urban character.
G. Enhance the economic value of the community and each area thereof
through the reasonable regulation of such things as type, number, area, height, location
and illumination of signs.
H. Encourage signs which are harmonious with adjacent land uses and to
encourage architectural compatibility.
I. Reduce possible traffic and safety hazards through good signing.
J. Provide a reasonable amortization period for the removal of
nonconforming signs.
Implement the objectives, policies and programs of the general plan.
17.60.020 Permits.
A. Permit required: No sign shall be painted, placed, pasted, posted, printed,
tacked, fastened, constructed, erected, re-erected, installed, altered or otherwise
permitted or maintained without first obtaining a permit from the Building Director in
accordance with the requirements of this chapter and Chapter 15.36.
B. Permit not required: Regardless of subsection A, permits from the
Building Director are not required for the following signs:
1. Real estate sales, rent lease or open house; construction/home
improvement; future facility use or tenant signs; and agricultural signs not exceeding
sixteen (16) square feet in area and six (6) feet in height, placed on the property subject
to such sign.
2. Changing of the advertising copy or message on a theater marquee,
readerboard, menuboard, or similar such sign.
3. Repainting or cleaning of an outdoor advertising structure or
changing the advertising copy or message thereon shall not be considered an erection or
alteration which requires a sign permit unless a structural change is made.
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4. Non-illuminated promotional window sign as regulated by the zone
district in which it is located.
5. Garage/yard sale and estate sale signs, pursuant to the requirements
of Section 17.60.060 B.
17.60.070 C.
Political election signs, pursuant to the requirements of Section
7. Flags for model homes as regulated in the residential districts.
8. Name plate, as regulated.
9. Signs that are exempt as specified in Section 17.60.080.
10.
17.60.070 B.6.
Non-profit special event signs subject to the provisions of Section
C. Other actions: Uses permitted under conditional use permits, wall and
landscape plans, zone changes, specific plans, and other such projects may include
signage as part of and in accordance with, the permit or project. The Board of Zoning
Adjustment, Planning Commission, or City Council may approve, deny, limit or grant
modifications to such signage consistent with the provisions of this chapter. If a
comprehensive sign plan is required as a condition of approval for such project, a
separate application for said plan shall be required pursuant to Section 17.60.030.
D. Exceptions: The Building Director may, in writing, grant exceptions to the
following sign regulations provided it has been determined that strict application of the
provisions of this chapter places an unnecessary hardship in satisfying the purposes of
this chapter:
1. Reduction of the minimum sign setbacks or minimum distance
between signs of not more than ten (10) feet.
2. Signage on properties having no street frontage provided that any
such sign permitted shall not exceed the regulations as delineated by the zone district in
which they are located.
3. Additional on-site residential project identification signs, not to
exceed two (2) additional per project; or an increase in sign area of one (1) residential
identification project sign to sixty-four (64) square feet.
4. An increase in the area of an off-site residential subdivision/project
identification sign to sixty-four (64) square feet to allow identification of multiple
projects; however, no other off-site residential identification sign will be permitted within
one hundred (100) feet of this larger sign.
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5. An increase of a monument sign located within a commercial or
industrial zone district to sixty-four (64) square feet in area and fifteen (15) feet in
height, provided the total number of monument signs per street frontage shall not
exceed two (2) signs and no pylon sign exists along that street frontage or will be
permitted.
E. Modification of regulations not permitted: Signs shall only be permitted
provided they meet the regulations of the zone district in which they are located for that
type of sign. With the exception of subsection D. of this section or Section 17.60.03
regarding comprehensive sign plans, no waivers of, exceptions to, or modification of any
regulation of this chapter shall be permitted.
F. Fees: The city may impose fees to offset the costs associated with permit
administration and monitoring pursuant to Chapter 3.70.
17.60.030 Comprehensive sign plans.
A comprehensive sign plan is a program that may allow developers or business
owners of a shopping/business center or other such project, to request special
consideration of signs that are specifically integrated into the overall architectural style
or theme for that project. Because signage can play an important role i.n the overall site
design in order to set it apart from other similar projects, a comprehensive sign plan can
create an effect both desired and unique that will enhance the overall environment of
the development. However, it is not the intent of this section to be used to request
relief of the sign regulations in order to circumvent any requirements or purpose of this
chapter.
A. General requirements: Any person may file with the city a comprehensive
sign plan application for only the following projects:
1. Shopping/business center developments as defined in this title,
including office and industrial complexes. The application for the plan shall be signed
by more than fifty percent (50%) of the business owners, not including royalty interests,
of the real property constituting the center.
2. Redevelopment projects or selected described portions of such
areas, whenever the application for the approval of such plan has been authorized by the
redevelopment agency and a majority of the owners of land affected have consented in
writing.
3. P.C.D. (planned commercial development) projects.
said plan.
Axeas covered by a specific plan where signage was not identified in
Public and semi-public institutional projects.
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OR~CqNAL
6. Neighborhood/subdivision identification sign program. This
program is limited to developments of one hundred (100) acres or more that have
frontage along an arterial and/or collector street of one-half (1/2) mile or more.
B. Condition of project approval: Comprehensive sign plans may be required
by the City Council, Planning Commission, or Board of Zoning Adjustment as part of
any project approval as specified in Section 17.60.020 C.
C. Application information: Any comprehensive sign plan application shall be
submitted to the planning deparunent on a form provided by that department.
Information submitted shall include, but is not limited to, location, size, height, color,
lighting, number, visual effects, and orientation of all proposed and existing signs as they
pertain to the comprehensive sign plan.
D. Authority and review: The planning commission shall have the authority
under the conditions provided in this chapter to permit the utilization of comprehensive
sign plans and may approve signs that are more or less restrictive than the sign
regulations set forth in this chapter.
1. All comprehensive sign plan requests shall be heard by the planning
commission at a public hearing. The applicant, their authorized agent, property owners
and operators of the businesses affected shall be notified by marl of the time and place
of the hearing before the Planning Commission at least ten (10) days before hearing.
2. Exceptions to the sign regulations in this chapter may be permitted,
provided the Planning Commission finds that the comprehensive sign plan as a whole is
in conformity with the purpose of this chapter and such exceptions are for the general
welfare resulting in an improved relationship among the various signs, bnilding facades,
or overall project covered by the plan.
3. The Planning Commission may require special conditions on
approved plans such as but not limited to, bonds or other type of security to ensure the
removal or abatement of signs that are abandoned or are in violation of any condition of
an approved plan, or a time schedule for any sign program where signage is not
considered permanent.
4. The Planning Commission shall either approve, conditionally
approve or disapprove the comprehensive sign plan at the public heating. All decisions
by the Planning Commission are final and conclusive.
5. An approved comprehensive sign plan may be changed or modified
subject to the same process as a new application.
6. Where an application for a comprehensive sign plan has been
denied by the Planning Commission, no reapplication or new application for the same or
nearly the same such plan on the property shall be considered for a period of one (1)
year from the date of the decision. However, where a change has occurred which, in the
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discretion of the Planning Commission. indicates that the new application is significantly
different and that reconsideration would serve the public interest, this time period may
be waived provided the Planning Commission makes such a finding.
7. The Planning Director may grant minor changes to an approved
comprehensive sign plan provided any such change does not alter the overall
architectural design or style of signs approved by such plan, and there is no increase in
the total area of signs.
E. Future signs: A comprehensive sign plan may be approved where signs for
satellite pads or other such detached future buildings have not been identified and
considered under such approved plan. In these instances, unless otherwise conditioned,
such future signs shall be subject to the requirements of the C-1 zone district.
F. Existing signs as part of a comprehensive sign plan: If any new or
amended comprehensive sign plan is filed for property on which existing signs are
located. those signs shall be integrated into the plan and shall be in compliance with that
plan prior to issuance of a permit for any new sign permitted under said plan.
G. Permits prohibited until decision rendered: No permit shall be issued for
any sign on property where a comprehensive sign plan has been applied for and is
pending a decision from the Planning Commission.
H. Withdrawal of plan: An approved comprehensive sign plan may be
withdrawn by the applicant provided, (1) it is not required as a condition of project
approval, (2) no signs have been installed pursuant to such plan, (3) all signs installed
since approval of said plan comply with the requirements of the zone district in which
they are located, or (4) all signs in the center or project comply with the provisions of
the zone district in which they are located. The withdrawal shall be submitted in writing
to the Planning DeparUnent.
I. Binding effect: After approval of a comprehensive sign plan, no signs shall
be erected, placed, painted, installed, or otherwise permitted, except in conformance
with said plan. The plan shall be enforced in the same manner as any other provision in
this chapter. The comprehensive sign plan shall be attached to the lease agreements or
sale of space within the project and becomes binding for the entire site for both existing
and future owners/tenants. In case of any conflict between the provisions of the plan
and this chapter, the approved plan shall control.
17.60.040 Sign area computations.
The following criteria shall control the computation of sign area and sign height:
A. Area of individual signs (single face): The area of a sign face, which is
also the area of a wall sign or other sign with only one face, shall be computed by means
limits of the writing,
of the smallest measurable polygon that will encompass the extreme
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representation, emblem, color. logo, or other display, together with any material or color
forming an integral part of the background of the display, or used to differentiate the
sign from the background or structure against which it is placed. If a sign is composed
of individual letters or symbols with no added decoration, the total sign area shall be
calculated by measuring the area of each individual letter and/or symbol; the combined
areas shall be the total sign area.
B. Area of multifaced signs: The sign area for a sign with more than one face
shall be computed by adding together the area of a single sign face pursuant to
subsection A of this section. When sign faces are placed back to back or in a way that
only one face can be viewed from any point, and when such sign faces are part of the
same structure and are not more than two (2) feet apart, the total sign area shall be
computed by measuring one of the faces if they are all of equal area or the largest face
if they are of unequal area.
C. Structural support area. The area of a sign does not include any
supporting framework. bracing or other support. whether or not it has been architectural
treated, provided said support does not exceed twenty five (25) percent of the allowable
sign area for a pylon sign, and fifty (50) percent of the allowable sign area for a
monument sign. If the support area exceeds these percentages, any excess shall be
computed as part of the total sign area.
D. Sign height. The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from
the base of the sign including any of its structural support, at grade as defined in this
rifle, to the top of the highest component of the sign.
17.60.050 Sign location restrictions.
A. Signs shall not be placed on any curb, sidewalk, post, pole, light standard,
hydrant, bridge, tree or other surface located on public property, and shall not be
located within, over or across any public fight-of-way or public parkway including street
median islands, except as may otherwise be authorized by this chapter. These
restrictions do not apply to signs by a public agency that identify public facilities: such
signs shall be subject to the zone district in which the facility is located. Any such sign
hereby prohibited constitutes a nuisance, and shall not become a legal nonconforming
sign.
B. Signs shall not be permitted near the intersection of any street, pedestrian
crosswalks, alley or any vehicle access in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear
vision of motor vehicle operators, or at any location where by reason of its position,
shape, illumination or color, it may interfere with or be confused with any authorized
sign, signal or device. or which makes use of a work, symbol, phrase illumination, shape
or color in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic. Any such sign
constitutes a nuisance and shall not become a legal nonconforming sign.
15
OR,C- I,~L
C. Permanent freestanding signs, except monument and directional signs, shall
be prohibited in the following areas:
1. The Truxtun Avenue corridor between State Highway 99 and Coffee
Road described as follows: "Beginning at the intersection of the southerly line of the
primary floodplain as designated in the Kern River Plan and the westerly right-of-way
line of State Highway 99; then southerly along said line to the north tight-of-way line of
the Santa Fe Railroad; then westerly along said line to the westerly right-of-way line of
the Cartier Canal; then westerly along said line to the southerly tight-of-way line of
Truxtun Avenue; then westerly along said line to the easterly right-of-way line of Coffee
Road; then northerly along said line to the southerly line of said primary floodplain, the
easterly along said line to the point of beginning."
2. Along or within one thousand (1,000) feet of the right-of-way of
State Highway 178, commencing five hundred (500) feet east of the centerline of Oswell
Street.
3. Along or within one thousand (1,000) feet of the fight-of-way of
Alfred Hartell Highway.
4. Along or within one thousand (1,000) feet of the tight-of-way of
Stockdale Highway west of the centerline of California Avenue/New Stine Road.
o
Panorama Drive.
Along or within one thousand (1,000) feet of the right-of-way of
17.60.060 Sign development standards.
A. General regulations: The following provisions shall apply to all signs
unless otherwise stated in this chapter:
1. Signs or their supporting members shall not be erected, altered,
relocated, or maintained so as to interfere with or restrict access to a window or other
opening in a building in such manner as to limit air circulation or obstruct or interfere
with the free use of a fire escape, exit, standpipe, stairway, door, ventilator or window, or
similar opening. Any such sign constitutes a nuisance and shall not become a legal non-
conforming sign.
2. All signs shall be constructed, installed and maintained to
structurally comply with all applicable requirements of the Uniform Building Code and
Uniform Sign Code, as adopted and amended by the city. Those signs incorporating
electrical components shall be constructed and maintained to also comply with the
Electrical Code as adopted by the city.
3. Where signs are permitted to be illuminated, the following
regulations shall apply: Y
16 '~-
a. Floodlighting is permitted only when such lighting is installed
on private property or property maintained by a maintenance district, and is hooded or
shielded so that the light source is not a nuisance or detrimental to persons viewing such
area, nor affect or interfere with vehicular traffic, pedestrians, or adjacent properties in
any manner.
b. Outlining of a building by means of exposed neon tubing is
permitted only where the amperage does not exceed thirty (30) milliamperes. Outlining
of a building by means of exposed incandescent lighting is permitted if the wattage does
not exceed forty (40) watts per bulb and the units of lights forming the line marking the
outer limits or edges of a building, or window or roof of a building, are at least two (2)
feet apart.
c. Exposed bulbs forming a part of a sign are permitted
provided they do not exceed fifteen (15) watts per bulb; signs in the C-2, C-C, M-I, M-2
and M-3 zone districts may be allowed up to forty (40) watts per bulb. Neon signs shall
not exceed thirty (30) milliamperes. Bulbs providing indirect lighting not visible from off
the premises of the sign are not subject to this subsection. Exposed reflector-type lamps
forming part of a sign or used to illuminate a sign are prohibited in all instances.
d. Flashing signs are only permitted in the C-2, C-C, M-l, M-2,
and M-3 zone districts and shall not exceed a total of sixty (60) milliamperes for neon
signs, and ten (10) watts for incandescent signs.
4. Placards or posters advertising special community events are
permitted as window signs or on public bulletin boards.
5. Public service signs may contain or include trade or professional
name identification and logo only.
6. Theater marquee signs are permitted pursuant to the regulations of
the Uniform Sign Code as adopted and amended by Chapter 15.36.
7. Permitted signs for a particular street frontage of a parcel may not
be combined with that allowed for another street frontage for the purpose of placing the
combined area of signs on one street frontage.
8. Any commercial sign which does not identify or advertise the
occupant of a building, lot or premises, or relate to any merchandise or to any business
or other activity available or being conducted at the building, lot or premises where the
sign is located, except outdoor advertising signs and subdivision directional signs, is
prohibited; however, in each instance and under the same conditions under which this
chapter permits a sign, a sign containing copy with ideological. political, or other non-
commercial message and constructed subject to the standards of the zone district in
which it is located, shall be permitted.
17
9. Persons owning or controlling any sign shall keep such sign, together
with all supports, braces, guys and anchors in good repair and in proper state of
preservation at all times. Signs shall be fully operational and present a satisfactow
appearance in regard to painting, cleaning, broken faces, electrical outages, landscaping,
or anything deemed related to the appearance of the sign.
10. Any sign structure, can, supports, anchors or other related
component of a sign that will not be utilized due to new signs being permitted, shall be
removed prior to any new sign being installed.
B. Regulations by zone district - sign matrix: The following tables identify the
signs permitted in each zone district. In addition to the following regulations, all signs
shall be in compliance with all other provisions of this chapter:
18
ORIGi~AL
T~rpe
b. Apartment [D
(over 4 unils)
c. Neighborhood/
Subdivision ID
(includes parks)
d. Tempora~ Si~,ns
i. Residential
Project ID
(on-site)
o
Signs permitted in the Residential and Agricultural/Op.a Space Zone Districts
(R, E, A, OS, MH, ~r, FP-P Zones):
SIRe Mazlanlmm Maxim.an Mindmare ]]~ml[im~m
· ~1Ir le Number Am Ibigbl Allodial
i~[hnc
Wall or 1 per street frontage 32 sq.ft. each 20' for wall Yes
nionument sign and 6 ft.
ment sign
Snbdivision 2 per major
32 sqft. each
Note: Wall
signs may
exceed the
height max.
if building is
stories per
skTfine sign
standards.
6 ft.
No
parallel with the front wall or
front door.
Shall be setback 10' from property
lines, except those fronting public
Signs shall be loGsted at the
enlranc~s where arlerial and/or
collector streets intersect with local
streets into the development.
Freesiatiding 2 per residential
projecl
32 sq.ft. each
12 ft.
No
Shall be within the subdivision or
project.
Shall identify only the natlie and/or
a. Copy limited to projoel name and
address only.
b. Signs shall nol be inlernally
lighted.
c. Building wall sign shall not exceed
a horizontal length greater than
70% of the linear frontage
elevation that sign is placed.
d. If skyline signs are utilized, such
signs as well as all other wall
signs shall bc subject Io Secfion
17.60.070 F.
a, Copy limited to project/
neighborhood name only; use
developer/subdivider name or logo,
or commercial advertising is
prohibited.
b. City Parks l)iv. shall appn)vc
material used ill the sign to assure
continued maintenance.
a. IJmbed to new projccls only.
Copy may include direction to
model homes/sales office and Ihe
name ~ff the deveiopertbuiiders,
c. All signs shall be removed wilhin
30 days after the initial sale/rent
of the last unit in the project/
subdivision tract, or 2 years after
recordation of the final map,
whichever occurs first. ~e
Bidg Director may granl up to 2
time extensions not to exceed I
year each if necessary Io complete
all sales.
19
SJ~n
Type
.qtyle Nunher Am H~i81d [ M [ (also se~ SIBe. 17.60.050) Rema~
,I !lllll~)l,tl'!. ~1.~/..~
sub/projecl
directional
(offsite)
iLL Rcal F-stale
lease)
iv Real [~stale
(open house)
v. Garage/yard
and eslate
sales
vt. Construction/
Home
0( T }/0~,,Impr°ven[ent
Freestanding 1 per parcel 6 sq.ft. 6 ft. No a. Shall be on premises being sold,
re[lied or leased,
b. Shall be setback 10' from
properly lines, exempt those
fronting public streets where
no setback is required.
a. Copy shall pertain to advertise the
sale, rent or lease and not for
purpose of commercial advertising
of a business.
b. Signs shall be removed wilhin 10
days after Ihe sale, lease or
exchange has been completed.
Freestanding 6 per residence 3 sq. fl. 6 fl. No Offsite directional signs shall not be a. The maximum duration of the use
(1 on-site, 5 offsite located more than 1 mile from the of these signs shall nol exceed
directional) open house. 3 consecutive days each week.
b. Use of A-frame signs are
permitled provided they are nol
located in the public right-of-way
or maintained parkway/landscape
banners may be used in
conjunction with OhSitc signs I)ut
not offsile signs.
Freestanding 2 per residence 3 sq. ft. 6 ft. No Offsite sign shall not be placed a. No property shall be allowed
(1 on site, I off site) within right-of-way and shall not be signsen for more than 2 sales
afttled in any manner to any utility per calendar year.
pole, sireel sign, fence, etc. b. The maximum duralion of the use
of tbes~ signs shall not exceed
3 consecutive days.
c. Balloons, pennants, sirearners and
banners may be used in
eonjunclion with onshe signs but
not offsite signs.
Freestanding I per project or 4 sq.ft. 6 ft. No a. Shall be on premises. a. Copy limited to type of
residence b. Shall be setback 10' from construction occurring on-site and
property lines. name of company including logo.
b. Sign shall be remcoted within 10
days after completion of project.
20
gIRm
vii. Future Use
viii. Model ttomc/
Tract Sales
Office
ix. Special Event
x. Political
Election
Products
Churches and
Schools
Frecstandiog I per undeveloped 32 sq.ft. 12 ft. No a. Sball be on premises. a. Copy limited to identify future use
parcel b. Shall 1~ ~tbacIr 10' from all consistent with existing zoning and
property lines. may include ownership ID.
b. Sign shall be removed upon inilial
occupancy of site or building.
Flags 3 per model home 15 sq.ft. 25 ft. No Flags may located anywber~ on tbe a. Limited to new projects only.
or sales office (each flag (polc ht) project sitc where tbe new homes are b. Copy limited to name of
area) being constructed for appropriate development and/or company
idenfification of tbe project, model name/logo.
homes or sales ot~IC~, provided they c. All flags shall be removed wilhin
are nol located within any street 3(I days after Ibe inilial sale
fight-of-way or public park'way. of the last unit in the projecl/
suMivision Iract, or 2 years after
recordation of Ihe final map,
whichever occurs firsl. It~e
Bide Director may grant up to 2
time extensions nol tO exceed 1
year each if such flags are
necessary to complete all sales
See Section 17.60.070 B.
See Section 17.60.070 C.
Freestanding 1 per parcel 32 sq.ft. 8 ft. No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be selback 10' from
properly lines, except those
fronting public streets where
no setback is required.
Uscs are subject to the CH (Church) zone sign standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.7.c.
a. Copy limited to products produced
on the properly or agricullural
related affiliation, and may also
include name of owner.
b. Sign is only permitted in tile A
and R-S zone districts.
21
2. a.gns permitted in the C-O (Professional and Administrat.,¢) Zone District:
b. Business ID Wall
Styb Number [ Ar~B
No limit; total
combined area of all
signage shall not
exceed the
maximum area per
elevation.
I sq.ft. per
linear foot of
Ihe business'
elevation sign
is leesled or
100 sq.fr.,
whichever is
03 sq.fi. per
linear frx)t of
the business'
elevation sign
is located or
32 sq.fl.,
whichever is
25 ft.
Note: Wall
signs may
exceed the
height
maximum if
building is 3
stories per
skyline sign
standards.
Yes Sign shall not project above
roofiine of building.
a. Each business shall be enlitled a
minimum of 16 sq.ft. of wall
signage per elevation.
b. Sign shall not exceed a horizontal
Icnglh greater than ?0% of Ihe
linear business frontage.
c. If skyline building signs are
proposed, such sisns as well as
all other wall signs shall be
subject to Secfion 17.60.070 F,
Pylon or 4 per street frontage 32 sq.fi. 8 it. Yes a. Shall be setback 25' from a. Business or center is limited to
Monumcnl each property lines, except those use of either pylon or monunlenL
fronting public streets where b. Business or cenler name is limilcd
no setback is required. to being Ilsled on only one sign per
b. Minimum 50' between signs. street frontage.
c. If center name incorlx)ralcs
the name of an on-sile busiucss in
any form, said uame shall not be
allowed ou other signs per ilem b.
Window 1 per streel frontage 8 sq.ft. Below 2nd Yes Ground floor windows only. Area limilation and location does nol
floor or 13', apply Io customsO' noncommerckd
whichever holiday decoraliens maintained
is less pursuant to 17.60.080 R.
Shingle I per cieralion 6 sq.ft. 8 fi, min. Yes Shall be at entranc¢(s) utilized by the Sign shall be oriented for sidewalk
ground public during business hours. pedeslrian traffic perpendicular to tile
Name Plate I per loading 2 sq.ft. 6 ft. No Adjacenl to or on door of loading a. Copy shall be limited to business/
(wall or door) enl£ance each entrance of each tenam. tenant name,
b. Sign is limited to loading entrance
22
(muluple bmldm~
on site)
L Real EStalc
iii. Future Facility,
Use or Tenant
iv. Promotional
o(
O~q\bTM
$ig. Ma~be.m Maslmem Mmdmml
(al~
Remark~
backlit; internal lighting is
prohibited.
b. Copy shall pertain only to the
name of lh¢ building Io assist ill
providing direction to the public,
conlmercial name/advertising 0opy
is prohibited.
Freeslanding, I per saleable or 16 sq.ft.; 12 ft. No
wail or window leasable space 32 sq.fl. for
undeveloped
parcels
a. Shall be on premises being sold,
rented or leased.
b. Shall be setback 10' from
property lines, except Ihosc
fronting public streets where
no setbeck is required.
a. Copy shall pertain Io advcrlisc Ihc
sale, rent or lease and not Ibr Ihe
purpose of commercial adverbsing
of a business.
b. Signs shall be removed wilhin IO
days after Ih¢ sale, lease or
exchange has been completed
Freestanding 1 per project facing 32 sq.ft. 12 ft. No a. Shall be on premises. a. Copy limited to type of
street b. Shall be setback 10' from eonslruction occurring on site and
property lines. name of company including logo.
b. Sign shall be removed within I0
.............................................................................................. _~_a~_L~L~_' ~'_n_~i_?_'"_L?_PZ'_'L~St:___
Freestanding, I per street frontage 16 sq.ft, 12 ft. No a. Shall be on premises. a. Copy limited to idenlify future use
wall or window b. Shall be setback 10' from consistent with zoning, or fulure
property lines. occupancy and may include
ownership identification.
b. Sign shall be removed UlXm
occupancy of building or silo.
Yes Ground floor windows only. a. Copy limited to promoting
Window I per building 25% of Below 2nd
elevation, not to window area fi~or or
exceed 2 building per building 10', which-
elevations elevation or ever is less
whichever is
less
of business activity. Business
identification is prohibited
ex~pt as permitted under 2.b.
b. Area limitation does not include
business identification under 2.b.
¢. Area limitation and location does
commercial holiday decoralions
during a holiday season.
23
Type
(~ont.)
vi, Political
Election
(al~o aoe ~et. 17,60.0~0;
fftyie Numl~r Am
:: Remark~ :
See Section 17.60.070 B.
See Section 17.60.070 C.
24
Sq*
Vyp*
a. Residential Uses
b. Business iD
3. Signs permitted in the C-1 (Neighborhood Commer~..al) Zone District:
Si~n J Maximum · :; M~ximum
Style 'Number Area
Subject to the residential sign slandards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.I
Wall No limit; total
combined area of all
signage shall not
exceed thc
maximum area per
elevation.
Street 30 ft.
elevations:
1 sq.ft. per Note: Wall
linear foot of signs may
the business' exceed the
cieralion sign height
is Iocalcd or maximum if
150 sq.ft., building is
whichever is more than 3
less. stories per
skyline sign
0.5 sq.ft. per
linear foot of
¢levalion sign
75 sq.ft.,
whichever is
Yes
Sign shall not project above roofiinc
of buiMing.
a. :.Each business shall bc entitled a
minimum of 16 sq.ft, of wall
signage per cieralion.
b. Sign shall not cx~ecd a horizonlal
lenglh 8~catcr than 70% of Ihc
linear business frontage.
c. If skyline building signs are
proposed, such signs as well as
all other wall signs shall be
subject to S~ciion 17.60.070 F.
25
Tr~e
(~out)
g~tle
MofiuluenJ
M-,dmn[n M,utlmms Mndnul liblb
Number Am I~.ilbl M
(al~o m See.
frontas~ if
properly lines, except tho~c
fronting public streets where
no setback is required.
b. Minimum 50' distance required
belween signs.
,t. Business is limited to cdhcr pykm
ceutcr identification is provided on
permitted.
to being on only 1 sign per sireel
frontage
C. Pyloll sign Ihat does not have a
ground to the bottom of the sign
height & area of a monumenl sign.
in any form or variation, said
business shall nol be allowed
on other signs per ilcnx b.
as a freeway oriented sign.
Window I per street frontage 8 sq.fi. Below 2nd Yes Ground floor windows only. Area limitation and location does
floor or 10', apply to customary noncommercial
whichever is holiday decorations maintained
less pumuant Io 17.60.080 R,
Readerboard/ 2 per business 32 sq.fi. 12 ft. Yes a. Shall not be portable. Copy limiled It) indicaliug prices,
Menuboard each b. Shaft not be placed or mainlained merchandise, or services offered;
(wall or upon any sidewalk area. official public services provided on
freestanding) premises; credit cards honored;
directions to customers; and like
and bam~era are prohibited.
Rhingle 1 per elevation 6 sq.fi. 8 ft. min. Yes Shall be at entrance(s) utilized by Sign shall be oriented for sidewalk
ground public during business hours. pedestrian traffic perpendicular to Ihe
clearance store front.
Name Plate 1 per loading 2 sq.ft. 6 ft.
(wall or door) entrance each
No
Adjaceut Io or on door of loading
cntrance of each tenant.
a. Copy shall be limited to business/
b. Sign is limited to loading entrance
only that is nol the business' puldic
26
i. Real Estate
iii Future Facility,
Use or Tenant
I ,oadbn Re~rk~b~l
backlit; internal lighting is
prohibited.
Copy shall pertain only to Ibc
name of tbe budding to assisl in
providing direction to the public,
commercial name/advertising copy
is prohibilcd.
Freeslanding, 1 per saleable or 16 sq.ft.; 12 ft. No
wall or window Icasable space 32 sq.fl. for
vacant
undeveloped
parris
a. Shall bc on premises being sold,
rented or leased.
b. Shall bc setback 10' from
properly lines, cxccpt those
froming public sireels where
no setback is required.
a. Copy shall pertain to advcrtisc lilt
sale, rent or lease and not for the
purpose of commercial advertising
of a busiuess.
b. Signs shall be removed within 10
days after Ibe sale, lease or
exchauge has been completed
Freestanding 1 per project facing 32 sq.ft. 12 fl. No a. Shall be on premises. a. Copy limited to type of
sireel b. Shall bc s~tback 10' from couslruclion occurring on s[tc and
property lines. name of company including logo.
b. Sign shall be removed wilhin I0
days after completion of project
Freestanding, I per slreet frontage 16 sq.ft. 12 ft. No a. Shall be on premises. a. Copy limited Io identify future use
wall or window b. Shall be setback 10' from consistcut with zoning, or future
properly lines. occupancy and may include
ownership identification.
b. Sign shall be removed up~m
occupancy of building or site.
27
C- I sign~ - cont.
(conl)
v. Special Evenl
vi. Political
gtyle
Window
.' M,~rlmttm · ~ttat~tlm~lim.
(aisc m 8ie..
nat t
1 per building 25% of Below 2nd
¢leYation, not to window area floor or
exceed 2 building per building 10', which-
elevations elevation or ever is less.
32 sq.ft.,
whichever is
less
Yes
Ground floor windows only.
a. Copy limited to promoting
merchandise, services, sales, etc.
of busincas activily. Business
identification is prohibited excepl
as permitted under 3.b.
b. Arca limitation does not include
business idenlification under
c. Area limitation and location d(~cs
not apply to customaq~ non-
commercial holiday decorabons
maintained pursuant to
17.60.080 R.
See Section 17.60.070 B. - ..................
See Section 17.60.070C.
28
4. bigns permitted in the C-2 (Regional Commercial) Zone Dl~,rict:
a. Residential Uses
b. Business ID
Wall No limit; total
combined area of all
signage shall not
exceed the
maximum area per
elevation.
$t~ie Nemb~r Am ' !l~bl
Subject to the residential sign standards pursuant to Seclion 17.60.0~0 B.1.
elevations:
2 sq.fi. ~r Note: Wall
linear f~t of si~ may
the business' ex~ed the
elevalion si~ heidi
is I~ted or m~imum if
250 sq.fl., building ~ 3
standards.
sq.fl. per
linear fool of
the business'
elevation sign
is located or
125 sq.ft.,
whichever is
Yes
L~a~oa. g#t~cti4ms
(al~.m ~ 17X~.O~O)
Sign shall not project above the
roodinc of the building.
Remarks
a. 'Each business shall be entitled a
minimum of 16 sq.ft. of wall
signage per elevation.
b. Sign shall not exceed a horizonlal
length greater than 70°/b of the
linear business frontage.
c. If skyline building signs are
proposed, such signs as well as
all other wall signs shall be
subject to Section 17.60 070 1:
29
!feigM Allowed (aim, see Soe. 17.60.050; Remarks
t t
if pylou; 4 per street sq. h.
frontage if Monument -
32 aq.ft. each.
pfol~rt) lines, except tll~,C
fronting public streets where
no setback is required.
b. Minimum 50' distanc~ required
.L Business is limited Io either pylon
or monument signs; however if
center identification is provided on
permitted.
b. Business or cenler name is Ibmted
to being on only I sign per street
frontage.
c. Pylon sign thai does not have a
minimum clearance of 8' from Ihc
ground to the bottom of the sign
face shall not exceed the maximum
height & area of a monmneni sign.
d. If the celllet name in~r~rates
in any form or varialion, said
bnsincss shall not be allowed
on other signs per lieu! b.
e. See Section 17.60.070 D for pylon
sign requiremeres if proposed
as a freeway oriented sign.
Window 1 per street frontage g sq.ft. B~low 2nd Yes Ground floor windows only. Area limitation and location does
floor or 10', apply to customary noncommercial
whichever is holiday decorations maintained
less pursuant to 17.60.080 R.
a. Shall not be portable.
b. Shall not be placed or maintained
upon any sidewalk area.
2 per business 32 sq.ft. each 12 ft. Yes
Readerboard/
Menuboard
(wall or
freestanding)
Copy limiled to indicating prices;
merchandise or services offered;
official public services provided .n
premises; credit cards honored;
directions to customers; and like
and banners is prohibited.
Shingle 1 per elevation 6 sq.ft. 8 ft. min. Yes Shall be at entrance(s) utilized by Sign shall be orienlcd for sidewalk
~ound public during business hour. pedestrian traffic perpendicular to the
clearance store front.
Name Plate 1 per loading 2 sq. ft. 6 ft. No Adjacent to or on door of loadin8 a. Copy shall be limited Io business/
(wall or door) entrance entrance of each tenant. tenant name.
b. Sign is limited to loading entrance
only that is not the business' public
entrance.
30
d. lemporai3' Signs
L Real Eslale
iii Future Facility,
Remarks
J. Illumination shall be indirect or
backIll; internal lighting is
prohibited.
b. Copy shall pertain only to the
name of Ih¢ buildin8 to assist in
providing direction to the public,
commercial name/advertising copy
is prohibited.
c. See ,%clion 17 60.070 F if Ihfilding
I1) sign is proposed as a skyline
building sign.
Frccstanding, I per saleablc or 16 sq.ft. 12 fl. No
wall or window leasable space 32 sq.fi for
vacant
undeveloped
parcels
a. Shall be on premises bein8 sold,
tenled or ]cased.
b. Shall be setback 10' from
property lines. except those
fronting public streets where
no setback is required.
a. Copy shall perlain to adverlise lhc
sale, rent or lease and not for the
purpose of commercial adverlising
of a business.
b. Signs shall be removed wdhin IO
days after the sale, lease or
exchange has been completed.
Freestanding I per project facing 32 sq. ft. 12 ft. No a. Shall be on premises, a. Copy limited to type of
street b. Shall be setback 10' from construction occurring (m silt ilrld
all property lines. name of company inchiding logo.
b. Sign shall be remlwed within 10
days after completitm of project
Freestanding, 1 per slreet frontage 16 sq. ft. 12 ft. No a. Shall be on premises. a. Copy limited to idenlify fulurc use
wall or window b. Shall be setback 10' from consistent with zoning, or future
all property lines. occupancy and may include
ownership idc nitricetlon.
b. Sign shall be removed upon
occupancy of building or site.
o¢~rYo~
31
Si~n
v. Special Event
vi. Political
Election
e. Outdoor
Advertisin~
(billboard)
Window
M~dmum ' Maximum ' Maximre
Number Area ~
(al~e ~ee S~
Remarks
1 per building 25% of Below 2rid
elevation, not Io window area floor or 10',
exceed 2 building pcr building whichever is
elevations elevation less
or 32 sq.ft.,
whichever is
less
Yes Ground floor windows only.
a. Copy limited Io promoting
merchandise, services, sales. etc.
of business activity. Business
identificalion is prohibiled except
as permilled under 4.b.
b. Area limitation does not include
business idcntificatiou Ultdef 4.b.
c. Area limitation and location does
not apply to customary non-
commercial holiday decorations
maintained pursuant Io
17.60.080 R.
See Section 17.60.070 B. -
See Section 17.60.070 C.
See Section 17.60.070 E.
oC~r~'o.~,
=:; ~%
32
Ty/~.
b. Business ID
Signs permitted in the Industrial Zone Districts
(M-l, M-2, M-3 zones):
Number
No limit; total
combined area of all
signage shall not
exceed the
maximum area per
elevation.
(also #e See. 17.MK0~l)
Street 30'
1.5 sq.ft. per Note: Wall
linear foot of signs may
the business' exceed the
elevation sign height
is located or maximum if
175 sq.ft., building is 3
whJche¥cr is or more
less. storics per
skyline sign
0.75 sq.ft. per
linear foot o(
the business'
elevalion sign
is Iocatcd or
whichever is
Yes
Sign shall not projcct above Ihc
rooflinc of thc building.
a. Each busincss shall bc entitled a
minimum of 16 sq.ft. of wall
signage per elevation.
b. Sign shall not excccd a horizonlal
lenglh greater than 70% of the
linear business frontagc.
c. If skyline building signs arc
proposed, such signs as well as
all other wall signs shall be
subject to Sec0on 17.60.070 F.
33
SLqn
Slyle
Maximum Mallmum Mednum mn. hmllnt
Number .4ml IreJIM Albml
(aim Me lice.
ReuaFb
32 sq.fL each.
no setback is required.
Minimum 50' distance required
between signs.
a. Business is limited Io either pylon
or monument signs; however if
center identification is provided on
a pylon then monuments are
permitted.
b. Business or cenler name is liralied
to being on only I sign per street
frontage.
c. P/Ion sign that does not have a
minimum clearance of 8' from the
ground to the bottom of the sign
face shaft not exceed the maximum
height & area of a monumenl sign.
d. If the center name incorporates
the name of an on-sile business
in any form or variation, said
business shall nol be allowed
on other signs per item b.
¢. See Seclion 17.60.070 I) for pylon
sign requiremenls if proposed
as a freeway oriented sign.
Window I per street frontage 8 sq.ft. Bclow 2fid Yes Ground floor windows only. Area limitation and location docs not
floor or f0', apply to customary noncommercial
whichever is holiday decorations mainlathed
less pursuant to 17.60.080 R.
Readerboard/ 2 per business 32 sq.ft. each 12 ft. Yes a. Shall not be portable. Copy limited to indicating prices;
Menuboard b. Shall not be placed or maintained merchandise or services offered;
(wall or upon any sidewalk area. official public services provided on
freestanding) premises; credit cards honored;
directions to customers; and like
and banners is prohibited.
Shingle ! per elevation 6 gq ft 8 ft. m!n. Yes Shall be entrance(s) utilized by Sign shall be oriented for sidewalk
ground public during business hours. pedestrian traffic perpendicular to
Name Plate 1 per loading 2 sq. ft. 6 ft. No Adjacenl to or on door of loading a. Copy shall be limited to hnsincss/
(wall or door) entrance entrance of each tenant. tenant name.
b. Sign is limited to loading entrance
only that is noi the business' public
34
(multiple buildings
on site)
d. Temporary Signs
i. Real Estate
it. Construction
iii Fulure Facility,
Use or Tenant
iv. Promotional
Style NUll~r ' Ar~ .
Wall 2 per building 10 sq.ft.
10 ft. Yes Wall only.
a. llluminalion shall be indirect ot
backlit; internal lighting is
prohibited.
b. Copy shall perlain only to the
name of the building to assist in
prcMding direction to the public.
commercial name/advertising copy
is prohibited.
c. See Section 17.60.070 F if Buddrag
ID sign is proposed as a skyline
building sign.
Freestanding, I Per saleable of 16 sq.ft. 12 ft. No
wall or window leasable spa~ 32 sq.ft. for
undeveloped
parcels
a. Shall be on premises being sold,
rented or leased.
b. Shall be setback 10' from
properly lines,. exempt those
fronting public sireels wbere
no setback is rcquircd.
a. Copy shall pertain to advertise the
sale, renl or lease and not for Ihe
purpose of commercial advertising
of a business.
b. Signs shall be removed whhin I0
days after the sale, lease or
exchange has been completed.
Freestanding I per project facing 32 sq. ft. 12 fl. No a. Shall be on premises. a. Copy linfiled to type of
siroct b. Shall be setback 10' from conslruction occurring ou site and
all property lines. name of company including logo.
b. Sign shall be removed wilhin 10
days after completion of project
Freeslanding, 1 per street frontage 16 sq. ft. 12 ft. No a. Shall be on premises. a. Copy liralied IO idealily fulure use
wall or window b. Shall be setback I0' from consistent wilh zoning, or fUllire
all property lines. occupancy and may include
ownership idcnlification.
b. Sign shall be removed upml
occupancy of building or site.
Yes Ground floor windows only. a. Copy limited to promoting
Window 1 per building 25% of Belo~ 2rid
exceed 2 per per building whichever is
building elevation less
or 32 sq.fl.,
whichever is
less
of business aclivily. Business
idenlificalion is prohibited excepl
as permitted under 5.b.
b, Area limitation does not include
business identificalion under $.b,
c. Area limitation and k~alion does
not apply In cesiumsty non-
commercial holiday decoraliGns
maintained putsushi to
17.60.080 R.
35
vL Political
e. Ouldoor
Adw~tising
(billboard)
~¢ S~ction 17.60.070
36
6. Signs permitted in the CC (Commercial Center) Zone District:
a. Signs within the downtown Bakersfield area a:s bounded by
24th Street on the north, California Avenue on the south, Union Avenue on the
east and A street on the west shall be subject to the C-2 zone sign standards pursuant to
Section 17.60.030 B.4.
b. Agricultural uses permitted by the planning director under
Section 17.26.011 B. shall be subject to the residential and agricultural/open space sign
standards pursuant to Section 17.60.030 B.1.
c. Signage for uses defined within a specific plan shall be
allowed as part of and in accordance with the provisions of the specific plan. If signage
is not identified in the specific plan, then a comprehensive sign plan shall be approved;
however, one sign indicating the probable future use of the site may be permitted prior
to approval of either plan pursuant to the C-2 regulations.
7. Signs permitted where there are overlay or combination zones (P,
CH, HOSP, D, AD, AA, FP-S, SC) shall be subject to the sign standards of the
underlying zone district unless otherwise permitted as follows:
a. Signs within the FP-S (Floodplain Secondary) zone where it
is not used as an overlay or combining zone, shall be subject to the residential sign
standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.1.
b. Signs within the P (Automobile Parking) zone where it is not
used as an overlay or combining zone, shall be subject to the same standards which are
applicable to the adjacent zone where the parking use is incidental to and intended to
serve the use in such adjacent zone.
c. Within the CH (Church) zone, churches, sanctuaries and
sunday schools shall, in addition to that permitted by the residential sign standards
pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.I., be allowed one (1) illuminated or nonilluminated
monument sign not to exceed an area of thirty two (32) sq. ft. and a height of eight (8)
feet; and one (1) nonilluminated wall sign not to exceed an area of thirty two (32) sq. ft.
and a height of twenty (20) feet. Monument signs shall be setback twenty five (25) feet
from all adjacent property lines. There shall be no setback of any sign from property
lines fronting a public street.
d. Within the HOSP (Hospital) zone, hospitals, sanitariums, rest
homes, convalescent homes, maternity homes and homes for the aged shall, in addition
to that permitted by the residential sign standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.I., be
allowed one (1) illuminated or nonilluminated monument sign not to exceed an area of
thirty two (32) sq. ft. and a height of eight (8) feet: and one (1) illuminated or
37
OR,G~ ,,L
nonilluminated wall sign not to exceed an area of thirty two (32) sq. ft. and a height of
twenty (20) feet. Monument signs shall be setback twenty five (25) feet 'from all
adjacent property lines. There shall be no setback of any sign from property lines
fronting a public street.
8. Signs permitted in the P.U.D. (Planned Unit Development) and
P.C.D. (Planned Commercial Development) zone districts:
a. Residential development shall be subject to the residential
sign standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.1. unless otherwise conditioned by the
Planning Commission or City Council.
b. Commercial development shall be subject to the C-1 sign
standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.3. unless otherwise conditioned by the
Planning Commission or City Council.
17.60.070 Specialized signs.
A. Residential subdivision/project directional signs (offsite):
The following shall regulate and establish a standardized program for off-
site residential subdivision/project directional signs within the city. These signs shall be
permitted for any residential housing project where five (5) or more housing units are
undergoing or will be undergoing construction, and/or are being individually sold or
rented for the first time.
1. Four (4) offsite residential directional signs for each new subdivision
or new residential project are permitted.
2. Signs are limited to projects of new home sales/rental.
o
twelve (12) feet.
Signs shall not exceed an area of thirty two (32) sq. ft. or a height of
4. Signs shall be setback a minimum of ten (10) feet from adjacent
property lines, except those fronting on public streets where no setbacks are required.
5. Signs shall not be located less than twenty five (25) feet from any
other such directional sign.
6. Signs shall not be located more than one (1) mile from the exterior
boundary of the subdivision or project being advertised.
38
7. Signs shall not be permitted that advertise tracts or projects located
outside the city limits.
8. There shall be no additions, tag signs, streamers, banners, balloons,
devices, display boards. or appurtenances added to the sign, and no other non-permitted
directional signs such as posters, or trailer signs shall be utilized.
9. Signs shall not be illuminated.
10. Signs shall be removed within thirty (30) days after the initial sale of
the last unit of the project, or two (2) years after recordation of the final map, whichever
occurs first. The Building Director may grant up to two (2) time extensions not to
exceed a period of one (1) year each if it has been found that the extension is necessary
to complete sales in the project/subdivision tract.
11. In the event the city adopts an offsite residential kiosk-directional
sign program, said program shall supersede the regulations of this subsection for
residential subdivision/project directional signs.
B. Special event signs:
Special event signs may be approved by the Building Director as a means
of publicizing events such as grand openings, carnivals, parades, charitable events,
community holiday activities, and other such events. This section does not include
events promoted by the City of Bakersfield pursuant to Section 17.60.080 O. Special
event signs shall be limited to the following provisions:
1. Special event signs within windows shall be limited to covering no
more than twenty five (25) percent of the window area per building elevation of the
ground floor only.
2. Signs shall be limited per business to forty five (45) days per
calendar year. This time may be utilized in any combination of durations; however, the
number of special events shall not exceed five (5) per calendar year, and no single event
shall exceed a duration of fifteen (15) consecutive days.
3. Balloons and inflated devices provided they do not exceed a height
of one hundred (100) feet, search lights, beacons, pennants, flags, banners and streamers
may be allowed subject to approval by the Building Director. Flags for model
homes/tract sales offices are not subject to this subsection.
4. Copy shall not exceed a total area of one hundred (100) sq. ft., and
may include the name. symbol or logo of the business or sponsor, but in no event shall
such name or logo exceed one-fourth of the total permitted copy area.
39
5. Signs may be illuminated upon approval by the Building Director
provided the illumination does not adversely affect neighboring properties or streets.
6. Non-profit organizations, as defined in this title, shall be permitted
unlimited events pursuant to the following:
a. Signs shall not exceed an area of thirty-two (32) square feel
a height of six (6) feet, and placement not to exceed a total of four (4) locations within
the city for each event.
b. Signs shall not be erected sooner than fourteen (14) days
before the event being advertised, and shall be removed within three (3) days after the
event has ended.
C. Political election signs:
Political election signs are permitted to be placed on private property in
the city in addition to that permitted by the zone district in which they are located
subject to the following regulations:
1. Signs shall not be erected sooner than sixty (60) days before the
election and shall be removed within ten (10) days following the election. The owner of
the property on which the sign is placed shall be responsible for removal.
2. Signs shall not be placed on private property without the consent of
the property owner. No such sign, either freestanding or posted on any object, shall be
placed or erected on public property, within the public right-of-way, or any maintained
parkway/landscape area.
3. Except for paid political election signs placed on legally established
outdoor advertising structures, signs shall not exceed an area of eight (8) sq. ft. and a
height of six (6) feet in residential districts, or thirty two (32) sq. ft. and a height of eight
(8) feet in the commercial, industrial and agricultural districts.
4. Signs shall not be illuminated.
D. Freeway oriented signs:
Freeway oriented signs identif~ premises where food, lodging and places of
business engage in supplying goods and services essential to the normal operation of
motor vehicles, and which are directly dependent upon an adjacent freeway. These signs
shall be subject to the following regulations:
40
1. Signs shall be within the C-l, C-2, PCD. M-I, M-2 or M-3 zone
districts; and shall also be within one of the rectangular areas two thousand (2,000) feet
in width and three (3,000) thousand feet in length, the center of which is concentric with
the intersection point between the centerline of the freeway and accessible surface street,
said intersections identified as follows:
State Highway 99 and State Highway 204 (Golden State
Avenue).
Highway/24th Street).
State Highway 99 and State Highways 58/178 (Rosedale
c. State Highway 99 and California Avenue.
d. State Highway 99 and Ming Avenue.
e. State Highway 99 and White Lane.
f. State Highway 99 and Panama Lane.
Maps delineating the specific rectangular areas are shown at the end
of this chapter.
2. Only one of the allowable onsite pylon signs permitted in the zone
districts specified in this section shall be allowed to exceed both the area and height
limitations imposed by the particular zone district provided no such sign exceeds an area
of three hundred fifty (350) sq. ft. and a height of seventy five (75) feet. All other sign
regulations of the particular zone district shall apply to this sign and the specific
business.
3. The Building Director shall determine if the location of the business
and the service offered satisfy the criteria and intent of this section and the definition of
a freeway oriented sign.
E. Outdoor advertising signs (billboards):
All outdoor advertising signs are regulated as follows:
1. Signs are permitted in the C-2, M-l, M-2 and M-3 :zone districts, in
addition to that permitted in those respective districts.
2. Signs shall not exceed an area of three hundred (300) sq. ft.,
excluding cutouts or extensions provided they do not exceed thirty (30) sq. ft. in area.
41
ORiGiNAL
3. Signs shall not exceed a height of thirty five (35) feet in the C-2
district, or 50 feet in the M-I, M-2 and M-3 districts.
4. Signs shall not be located less than one thousand (1,000) feet from
another such sign, or one hundred (100) feet from any other freestanding sign.
5. Signs shall not be located in. nor project over public property or
public right-of-way.
6. Multifaced signs are allowed provided the faces are placed back-to-
back, are no more than two (2) feet apart, and ate equal in size and configuration.
7. Signs shall be setback a minimum of three hundred (300) feet from
any property zoned residential or developed with residential uses.
o
Signs shall not project over or be placed upon any building or
structure.
9. Signs shall be setback twenty five (25) feet from adjacent property
lines except those fronting public streets where no setback is required.
10. Signs may be illuminated provide no lighting is directed onto
adjacent properties or public rights-of-way.
11. Construction of new signs shall be subject to site plan review
pursuant to Section 17.53.
F. Skyline building signs:
Wall signs for building that are three (3) or more stories may be permitted
that exceed the height limits delineated by the zone district in which it is located, to
provide long distance visual identification of a building or its primary tenant, subject to
the following regulations:
1. Signs are permitted in the C-O, C-l, C-2, C-C, PCD, M-l, M-2, and
M-3 zone districts.
2. Signs may be installed on all elevations of the building.
3. Signs shall be located on the top story or between the top story and
the top of the building.
42
4. Signs shall be comprised solely of individual letters or logos
installed a minimum of three (3) inches and a maximum of twelve (12) inches from the
surface of the wall on which they are located. Illumination may be provided by indirect
reverse lighting or internal illumination as approved by the Building Director.
Floodlighting shall be prohibited.
5. Signs shall not have a horizontal dimension exceeding one hundred
(100) feet or seventy (70) percent of the horizontal dimension of the building elevation
where the sign is placed, whichever is less.
6. The property owner shall designate in writing or on the sign plan,
the primary tenant of the building if such tenant is to be identified by the sign.
7. Signs shall not have letters exceed the following height:
Building if) Max. &Capital & Logo
Height Letter Letter (inches)
(feet) Height (inches)
(inches)
35 -59 24
36 48
54 72
72 96
90 120
108 144
126 168
144 192
60 - 69 36
70 - 79 48
80- 89 60
90 - 99 72
100 - 119 84
120 or more 96
Letter height is if all letters used
are capital letters.
Maximum height of a capital
letter (1.5 times max. height) if
used in conjunction with lower
case letters. Lower case shall not
exceed max. height.
Maximum height of a logo (2
times max. height).
8. All signs shall be limited to a single line of letters and/or logo.
43
9. Pylon signs shall not be permitted on the site if skyline signs are
utilized; only monument signs in this instance would be permitted subject to the
regulations of the zone district in which they are located.
10. All other wall signs permitted by this chapter which are placed on a
building with a skyline sign pursuant to this section, shall not exceed sixty (60) percent of
the area which would othersvise be allowed in the particular zone district, a height of
twenty (20) feet from grade, and letters that are taller than the skyline letters.
11. Comprehensive sign plans may permit skyline signs to be more or
less restrictive than the requirements of this section.
17.60.080 Exempt 'signs.
The following signs shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter:
A. Address signs used for dwelling unit identification as required by Chapter
15.42 and 15.52.
B. Advertising signs that are in or on public buses or other public
conveyances which may be permitted by the city council.
C. Business or merchant directory provided it does not exceed an area of
sixteen (16) sq. ft. and a height of six (6) feet.
D. Commercial vehicle signs on licensed commercial vehicles; provided,
however, that such vehicles shall not be utilized as parked or stationary outdoor display
signs.
E. Directional, warning or information sign, including traffic control and
street signs, as authorized by federal, state or municipal authority.
F. Directional or informational signs such as entrance/exit signs, open/closed
signs, signs indicating business hours, and similar such signs, provided they contain no
commercial advertisement, and not exceed six (6) sq. ft. in area and six feet in height.
Business logo is permitted provided it does not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of each
total sign area. The Building Director shall limit the number of such signs on the site
based on actual need in order to provide adequate direction or information.
G. Flags of the United States, the State of California and other states of the
nation, counties, municipalities, foreign nations, and national/international recognized
non-profit organizations. A site is limited a total of three (3) flags with no duplication
44
of flags. The Building Director may approve additional flags if warranted by the type of
business or proposal on the site.
H. Holiday decorations, in season, displayed for an aggregate period not to
exceed 90 days per calendar year.
I. Interior signs within a public or private structure, including a stadium, ball
park or other similar private or public recreational use, not intended to be seen from a
public street or adjacent properties.
J. Memorial plaque, table, cornerstone or tombstone.
Neighborhood Watch and similar type notices.
notices.
Notices posted on public bulletin boards or public kiosks designed for such
M. No trespassing, solicitation, hunting, minors, and similar such signs,
provided they do not exceed four (4) sq. ft. in area and six (6) feet in height.
N. Official and legal notices issued by a court, or governmental agency.
O. Promotional signs by the City of Bakersfield that promote .or advertise city-
wide celebrations, awards, recognition, or other events. Such signs may be permitted
within or project over public right-of-way.
P. Public utility signs placed by public utilities for the safety, welfare or
convenience of the public, such as signs identifying high voltage, public telephone or
underground cable.
Q. Signs being manufactured, transported and/or stored within the city limits;
provided, however, that such signs are not used, in any manner or form, for purposes of
advertising at the place or places of manufacture or storage.
R. Signs expressing political, social, religious or other noncommercial
message, but not including political election signs as regulated in Section 17.60.070 C.,
provided the sign does not exceed an area of eight (8) sq. ft. and a height of six (6) feet.
S. Taxicab signs as authorized and approved as to size, form and contents by
the city manager under Section 5.50.100.
45
OR~G[~I,4L
17.60.090 Prohibited signs.
The following signs are specifically prohibited:
A. Advertising statua~ larger than life-size.
B. Animated, moving, revolving and rotating signs.
C. Banners, flags, pennants and balloons, except as permitted in this chapter.
D. Bench signs.
E. Electronic message boards with moving print messages except those that
depict noncommercial information such as public events, time of day and temperature.
F. Flashing, blinking, and reflecting signs, except as specified in this chapter.
G. Outdoor advertising signs, except as specified in this chapter.
H. Permanent "for sale" signs.
I. Portable signs including A-Frame signs, except as specified in this chapter.
J. Projecting signs except as specified in this chapter.
Roof signs.
L. Signs which simulate in color or design a traffic sign or signal, or which
make use of words, symbols or characters in such a manner to interfere with, mislead, or
confuse pedestrian or vehicular traffic, as determined by the Building Director.
M. Vehicle signs. Vehicles including trailers, wagons and similar utility
vehicles, shall not be utilized as support for any mobile, portable or stationary signs, or
conspicuously parked or left standing so as to constitute a device or sign. There shall
not be maintained on any vehicle or trailer parked in a public right-of-way, or on public
or private property so as to be visible from a public right-of-way, which is attached to,
located on or leaning against such vehicle or trailer, any sign for the purpose of
providing advertisement of a business, service or products, directing people to a business
activity located on the same or other property for any purpose. This prohibition shall
not apply to standard advertising or identification practices where such signs or
advertising devices are painted on or permanently attached to a commercial or business
vehicle used in the conduct of such business provided it is not parked on the site being
advertised abutting public right-of-way, to bumper stickers, to placards identifying the
46
ORIG[~IAL
vehicle itself as being for sale, or to window stickers or placards on vehicles in any
vehicle sales lot.
17.60.100 Non-conforming signs.
A. Signs for a legal non-conforming use are permitted. Such signs shall be
deemed to comply with the provisions of this chapter if they comply with the sign
regulations for the most restrictive zoning district which permits the non-conforming use
as a permitted use. Such signs shall be permitted only as long as the non-conforming
use is permitted. Any such sign legally existing on the effective date of the ordinance
codified in this chapter, but which does not comply with the regulations of this chapter
shall be deemed to be a non-conforming sign.
B. For the purposes of' this chapter, a "non-conforming sign" is one which
does not conform with the provisions of this chapter, but which:
1. Was lawfully in existence and in use within the city prior to the
effective date of the ordinance first enacting this chapter;
2. Was lawfully in existence and in use on property outside of the city
on the date upon which the annexation of such property to the city was completed;
3. Was lawfully in existence and in use within the city on the effecti';,e
date of any zone change or specific plan or comprehensive sign plan for the property on
which the sign is located; or
4. Was lawfully in existence and in use within the city on the effective
date of any amendment of this chapter, the zoning regulations contained in this title or
other provision of this code, making such sign non-conforming.
C. For the purposes of this section only, a non-conforming sign exceeding the
height or area restrictions contained in this chapter by no more than five percent (5%)
shall be deemed to conform with the provisions of this chapter limiting height and area.
D. A non-conforming sign shall not. be replaced, altered, reconstructed,
relocated or expanded in any manner unless and until the sign is made to conform with
the provisions of this chapter. This shall not be construed to prevent ordinary
maintenance and minor repairs, as determined by the Building Director.
E. A non-conforming sign destroyed or damaged to an extent exceeding fifty
percent (50%) of its replacement cost immediately prior to destruction or damage, shall
not be continued in use or maintained thereafter and shall be removed or made to
conform with the provisions of this chapter within thirty days of the date of such
destruction or damage.
47
OR!G;;q:,L
F. Each non-conforming sign, other than an outdoor advertising sign subject
to ~the California Outdoor Advertising Act. shall be removed or made to conform with
the provisions of this chapter at the sole cost of the owner thereof, whenever any of the
following events occur.
1. There is a change in ownership of the property; inheritance by a
member of a deceased owner's family shall not be deemed to constitute a change of
ownership;
2. The business or activity is discontinued or sold;
3. The property is rezoned, subdivided or parceled or the real property
upon which the sign is located is severed from the real property upon which the business
or primary use of the entire parcel is located, by lease, lease-back, or any other
arrangement, method, devise or scheme which would otherwise circumvent the intent of
this section;
4. A conditional use permit or modification is granted for the property
or use of the property;
5. A sign permit is issued permitting installation or construction of a
new or additional sign on the property;,
6. Any change in the signage is made, excluding minor repairs and
precise repainting.
7. Whenever there is a change in ownership or tenancy of any business
or tenant space within a business/shopping center, new wall signage and/or a monument
sign conforming to the requirements of this chapter to signify such change is permitted
although non-conforming signage exists within such center. However, no change of sign
copy to signify such change shall be permitted on any non-conforming sign.
G. Each such sign determined by the Building Director to be of historical
significance, in accordance with criteria established by the city's historical preservation
commission, shall be exempt from the removal and conformance requirements of this
chapter.
H. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as authority for the city to
remove without just compensation those signs which, under the California Outdoor
Advertising Act, are subject to removal with compensation to the owner.
48
17.60.110 Violation and abandonment.
A. Any sign that has been abandoned or installed illegally is hereby declared
to be a danger to the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Bakersfield. Any sign
which is partially or wholly obstructed by the growth of dry vegetation or weeds, or by
the presence of debris or litter, also presents a danger to the health, safety and weftare
of the citizens of Bakersfield.
B. It shall be the duty of the owner and occupant to make immediate repair
to any sign deemed by the Building Director to be imminently dangerous or perilous to
the public safety. A sign maintained in violation of this section constitates a public
nuisance. Nothing in this section shall be constructed so as to nullify the requirements
and remedies as to maintenance established by the Uniform Sign Code or this chapter.
Upon a written notice from the Building Director of a sign deemed unsafe and
dangerous to public safety, necessary repairs shall
upon a written notice from the Building Director,
or repairs as required by this chapter pursuant to
within ten (10) days after the date of such notice.
lawful possession fails to maintain, alter or repair
addition to any other penalty or remedy provided for in this chapter, such sign may be
abated by the Building Director in accordance with the provisions of this chapter:
be made immediately. Otherwise,
the necessary maintenance, alterations
Section 17.60.060 A.9. shall be made
In the event the owner, or person in
in accordance with such notices, in
C. Any signs which are not removed within the required period specified
within this chapter, shall constitute a public nuisance and shall be subject to summary
abatement at the expense of the owner and the person in lawful possession of such sign,
pursuant to the provisions of Sections 38773-38773.7 of the Government Code; the
expenses of abatement of such nuisances are a lien against the property on which they
are maintained and a personal obligation against the property owner. Said property
owner or person in lawful possession shall first be served with a ten (10) day notice to
abate the nuisance by removing the sign and shall be given the opportunity to explain to
the Building Director why such sign has not been removed. If, after such opportunity to
explain, the Building Director orders the removal of the sign, the agents of the city shall
have authority to enter upon the private property to remove the sign constituting the
nuisance. The provisions of this subsection may be utilized separately from, as an
alternative to, or in coniunction with, any other remedy provided in this chapter or
otherwise provided by law.
D. In the event any person erects, installs, alters, relocates or maintains any
sign after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, which sign is in
violation of any provision of this chapter, and the same is not removed after notice as
specified in subsection C of this section, the same is a public nuisance and shall be
subject to abatement at the expense of the person creating, causing, committing or
maintaining it, pursuant to the provisions of Sections 38773-38773.7 of tile Government
Code.
49
E. The Building Director may, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued
under the provisions of this chapter, whenever the permit is issued in error on the basis
of incorrect information supplied by the applicant which results in there being a violation
of any ordinance, regulation, or any provisions of this chapter.
F. With exception to those signs deemed nonconforming and subject to
Section 17.60.100, the owner or person in lawful possession of any sign which is not
operational or not used for a period of ninety (90) days, or which was used to advertise
or identify that which has been moved or discontinued for a period of ninety (90) days,
shall cover or remove all display copy from such sign immediately upon the expiration of
such period. If said display copy is removed, any bulbs or other mechanical equipment
that becomes exposed shall be covered or removed. If said display copy is not covered
or removed within thirty (30) days after notice by the Building Director, the city may
cause said display copy to be removed or covered and the cost shall become a lien
against the property on which the sign is located. Extensions for thirty (30) day periods
may be granted by the Building Director. The provisions of this subsection may be
utilized separately from, as an alternative to, or in conjunction with, any other remedy
provided in this chapter or otherwise provided by law.
G. All signs, except nonconforming signs pursuant to Section 17.60.100, which
do not conform with the provisions of this chapter, are public nuisances and shall be
removed at the owner's sole expense within sixty (60) days after the effective date of this
ordinance. If said sign is not removed within said period, the city may cause said sign to
be removed and the cost shall become a lien on the property on which the sign is
located. Extensions for thirty (30) day periods may be granted by the Building Director.
The provisions of this subsection may be utilized separately from, as an alternative to, or
in conjunction with, any other remedy provided in this code or otherwise provided by
law.
17.60.120 Interpretation and enforcement.
A. It shall be the duty of the Building Director to enforce the provisions of
this chapter.
B. Any decision or interpretation of this chapter shall be final and conclusive
by the Planning Director or official designee.
C. Any sign erected or maintained, or any use of signs contrary to the
provisions of this chapter shall be, and the same is, unlawful and a public nuisance, and
the Building Director in conjunction with the City Attorney may immediately commence
actions for the withholding and/or revocation of permits, abatement, and removal in the
manner provided by law. Violators will be liable for all enforcement costs by the city.
50
D. This chapter may also be enforced by injunction issued out of Superior
Court upon suit of the city, or the owner or occupant of any real property affected by
such action.
Eo
and void.
Permits issued in conflict with the provisions of this chapter shall be null
F. Any city official or employee for the purpose of permit review, complaint,
or enforcement of this chapter, shall have the right to enter upon the premises for
inspection.
SECTION 3.
This ordinance shall be posted in accordance with the Bakersfield
Municipal Code and shall become effective not less than thirty (30) days from and after
the date of its passage.
5!
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Ordinance was passed and
adopted by the Council of the City of Bakersfield at a regular meeting thereof held on
IdAR I~ 3 1~ , by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS McDERMOTT, EDWARI~, DeMO~ID, &Mffi4, BRUNNI, I~, ~ALVAOGIO
i~OES: COUNCILMEMBERS
COUNCILMEMbERS
COUNCILMEMBERS
Assistant CITY CLERK and Ex Officio Cl~rk of the
Council of the City of Bakersfield
APPROVED ~ Z 3 1~.
BOB PRICE
MAYOR of the City of Bakersfield
APPROVED as to form:
JUDY SKOUSEN
ACTING CITY ATrORNEY of the City of Bakersfield
Februmy 8, 1994
res\oso.cc
52
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PYLON SIGN
MONUMENT SIGN
WALL SIGN
SHINGLE SIGN
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING DOCUMENTS
STATE OF CALIFORNIA)
) SSo
County of Kern )
CAROL WILLIAMS, being duly sworn, deposes and says:
That she is the duly appointed, acting and qualified. City Clerk of
the City of Bakersfield; and that on the 25th day of March, 1994
she posted on the Bulletin Board at City Hall, a full, true and
correct copy of the following: Ordinance No. 3586, passed by the
Bakersfield City Council at a meeting held on the 23rd day of
March, 1994, and entitled:
ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 17.60 AND CHAPTER
17.04 OF TITLE SEVENTEEN OF THE BAKERSFIELD
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO SIGNS AND
ASSOCIATED DEFINITIONS, RESPECTIVELY
By:
/s/ CAROL WILLIAMS
City Clerk of the City of Bakersfield