HomeMy WebLinkAbout17.60 SignsBakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 1
Chapter 17.60
SIGNS
Sections:
17.60.010 Purpose
17.60.020 Permits
17.60.030 Comprehensive sign plans
17.60.040 Sign area computations
17.60.050 Sign location restrictions
17.60.060 Sign development standards
• Residential/Agriculture Zones (R, E, A, OS, MH, TT, FP)
• C-O (Professional & Administrative Office) zone
• C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial) zone
• C-2 (Regional Commercial) and M (Manufacturing) zones
• C-C (Commercial Center), C-B (Central Business) zones
• Overlay zones (P, CH, HOSP, AD, AA, FP-S, SC)
• PUD, PCD zones
• Bakersfield Auto Mall area
17.60.070 Specialized signs
• Residential subdivision directional (kiosk sign program)
• Special events
• Political election
• Freeway oriented
• Outdoor advertising (billboards)
• Skyline
• Electronic message displays
• Projecting business identification (Downtown/Old Town Kern)
17.60.080 Exempt signs
17.60.090 Prohibited signs
17.60.100 Non-conforming signs
17.60.110 Violation and abandonment
17.60.120 Interpretation and enforcement
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 2
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.
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.
K. Implement the objectives, policies and programs of the general plan.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 3
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 16 square feet in area and 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.
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).
6. Political election signs, pursuant to the requirements of Section 17.60.070(C).
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. Non-profit special event signs subject to the provisions of Section
17.60.070(B)(5).
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 4
11. Pole banners, pennants/streamers in compliance with the provisions of
Subsections 17.60.060(B)(4), (5), and (9).
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 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 2
additional per project; or an increase in sign area of 1 residential
identification project sign to 64 square feet.
4. An increase of a monument sign located within a commercial or industrial
zone district to 60 square feet in area and 12 feet in height, provided the
total number of monument signs per street frontage shall not exceed 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 17.60.030 regarding comprehensive sign plans, no waivers
of, exceptions to, or modification of any regulation of this chapter shall be permitted.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 5
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 in 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 50% of the property owners, not including royalty
interests, of the real property constituting the center.
2. P.C.D. (planned commercial development) projects.
3. Areas covered by a specific plan where signage was not identified in
said plan.
4. Public and semi-public institutional projects.
5. Neighborhood/subdivision identification sign program. This program is
limited to developments of 100 acres or more that have frontage along
an arterial and/or collector street of ½ mile or more.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 6
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
Department 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 mail of the time and place of the hearing before the Planning
Commission at least 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, building 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 hearing. All
decisions by the Planning Commission are final and conclusive.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 7
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 1 year from the date of the decision. However, where a
change has occurred which, in the 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.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 8
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 Department.
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 (1) face, shall be computed by means of the smallest measurable
polygon that will encompass the extreme limits of the writing, 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.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 9
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 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 architecturally treated, provided said support
does not exceed 25% of the allowable sign area for a pylon sign, and 50% 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 title, 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 right-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.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 10
C. Permanent freestanding signs, except monument and directional signs, shall be
prohibited in the following areas: (NOTE: Refer to the map at the end of this chapter.)
1. The Truxtun Avenue corridor between the west right-of-way line of State
Highway 99 and the east right-of-way line of Coffee Road, a width of 500
feet from the right-of-way of Truxtun Avenue or between the north right-
of-way line of the Cross Valley Canal and the south right-of-way line of
the Carrier Canal/Santa Fe Railroad, whichever distance is greater.
2. Along or within 1,000 feet of the right-of-way of State Highway 178 east
of Oswell Street, commencing at a point 500 feet east of the centerline
of Oswell Street.
3. Along or within 1,000 feet of the right-of-way of Alfred Harrell Highway.
4. Along or within 1,000 feet of the right-of-way of Stockdale Highway west
of the Arvin-Edison canal.
5. Along or within 1,000 feet of the right-of-way of Panorama Drive.
6. Along or within 1,000 feet of the right-of-way of the Westside Parkway
from State Highway 99 to its western terminus.
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 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.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 11
3. Where signs are permitted to be illuminated, the following regulations
shall apply:
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 30 milliamperes.
Outlining of a building by means of exposed incandescent lighting is
permitted if the wattage does not exceed 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 2 feet apart.
c. Exposed bulbs forming a part of a sign are permitted provided they
do not exceed 15 watts per bulb; signs in the C-2, C-C, C-B, M-1, M-
2 and M-3 zone districts may be allowed up to 40 watts per bulb.
Neon signs shall not exceed 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, C-B, M-1, M-2,
and M-3 zone districts and shall not exceed a total of 60
milliamperes for neon signs, and 10 watts for incandescent signs.
e. Signs that contain changeable copy produced by light emitting
diodes (LEDs), incandescent or low voltage lamps or bulbs,
cathode ray tubes (CRTs), plasma, or other such lighting devices,
shall include automatic brightness compensation features to
adjust brightness to compensate for sun angle and ambient light
conditions, and ensure that the sign is visible but not excessively
bright to adversely affect motorists or nearby residents.
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.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 12
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.
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
satisfactory 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:
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 13 June, 2013
1. Signs permitted in the Residential and Agricultural/Open Space Zone Districts (R, E, A, OS, MH, TT, FP-P, DI Zones):
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
a. Name Plate
Wall or door
1 per residence
1 sq. ft.
Below
roofline
Yes
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Sign shall be attached
to and parallel with the
front wall or front door.
Shall identify only the name and/or street
address of the occupant.
b. Apartment ID
(over 4 units)
Wall or
monument
1 per street
frontage
32 sq. ft. each
20' for wall sign
and 6 ft. for
monument sign
Note: Wall signs
may exceed the
height max. if
building is 3 or
more stories per
skyline sign
standards.
Yes
Setbacks:
- 10' from interior
property lines.
- 0' from street
rights-of-way.
a. Copy limited to project name and
address only.
b. Signs shall not be internally 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 be subject
to Sec 17.60.070 F.
c. Neighborhood
Subdivision ID
(includes parks)
Subdivision
wall or
monument
2 per major
entrance not to
exceed signs at
2 entrances
32 sq. ft. each
6 ft.
Yes
Signs shall be located at
the entrances where
arterial and/or collector
streets intersect with local
streets into the
development.
a. Copy limited to project/neighborhood name
only; use of developer/subdivider name or
logo, or commercial advertising is
prohibited.
b. City Parks Div. shall approve of all material
used in the sign to assure continued
maintenance.
d. Temporary
Signs
i. Residential
Project ID
(on-site)
Freestanding
2 per
subdivision
(multiple phases
of a tract shall
be considered
a single
subdivision)
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
Shall be within the
subdivision or project.
Signs shall be prohibited
on lots developed with
residences.
a. Limited to new projects only.
b. Copy may include direction to model
homes/sales office, the developer/builder’s
name, logo, prices, and any other
information related to home sales.
c. All signs shall be removed within 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. The Bldg Director may grant up
to 2 time extensions not to exceed 1 year
each if necessary to complete all sales.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 14 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
R Zones (cont.)
ii. Residential
sub/project
directional
(off-site)
See section 17.60.070 A.
iii. Real Estate
(sale, rent,
lease)
Freestanding
1 per parcel
6 sq. ft.
6 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises
being sold, rented or
leased.
b. Setbacks:
- 10' from interior
property lines.
- 0' from street
rights-of-way.
a. Copy shall pertain to advertise the sale, rent
or lease and not for the purpose of
commercial advertising of a business.
b. Signs shall be removed within 10 days after
the sale, lease or exchange has been
completed.
iv. Real Estate
(open house)
Freestanding
6 per residence
(1 on-site, 5 off-
site directional)
3 sq. ft.
6 ft.
No
Off-site directional signs
shall not be located more
than 1 mile from the open
house.
a. The maximum duration of the use of these
signs shall not exceed 3 consecutive days
each week.
b. Use of A-frame signs are permitted
provided they are not located in the public
right-of-way or maintained
parkway/landscape area.
c. Balloons, pennants, streamers and banners
may be used in conjunction with onsite
signs but not offsite signs.
v. Garage, yard
and estate
sales
Freestanding
2 per residence
(1 on-site,
1 off-site)
3 sq. ft.
6 ft.
No
Off-site sign shall not be
placed within right-of-way
and shall not be affixed in
any manner to any utility
pole, street sign, fence,
etc.
a. No property shall be allowed signage for
more than 2 sales per calendar year.
b. The maximum duration of the use of these
signs shall not exceed 3 consecutive days.
c. Balloons, pennants, streamers and banners
may be used in conjunction with onsite
signs but not offsite signs.
vi. Construction/
Home
Improvement
Freestanding
1 per project or
residence
4 sq. ft.
6 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from property lines.
a. Copy limited to type of construction
occurring on-site and name of company
including logo.
b. Sign shall be removed within 10 days after
completion of project.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 15 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
R Zones (cont.)
vii. Future Use
Freestanding
1 per
undeveloped
parcel
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from property lines.
a. Copy limited to identify future use
consistent with existing zoning and may
include ownership ID.
b. Sign shall be removed upon initial
occupancy of site or building.
viii. Model Home/
Tract Sales
Office
Freestanding
and Flags
Signs:
1 per sales
office
1 per model
home
Flags:
20 per
subdivision
Sales office:
24 sq.ft.
Model home:
8 sq.ft.
Flag:
15 sq.ft.
Sales office:
8 ft.
Model home:
4 ft.
Flag :
25 ft.
(pole height)
No
Signs for sales office and
model homes shall be
located on the lot
containing said office or
model.
Flags may located
anywhere on the project
site where the new homes
are being constructed for
appropriate identification
of the project, model
homes or sales office,
provided they are not
located within any street
right-of-way or public
parkway. Flags shall be
prohibited on developed
lots with occupied
residences or lots not
owned by the
builder/developer
advertising on said signs.
a. Limited to new projects only.
b. Copy limited to name of development and/or
company name/logo.
c. All flags shall be removed within 30 days
after the initial sale of the last unit in the
project/subdivision tract, or 2 years after
recordation of the final map, whichever
occurs first. The Bldg Director may grant up
to 2 time extensions not to exceed 1 year
each if such flags are necessary to
complete all sales.
d. Signs shall be removed when model home
is sold, sales office closed, or per
subsection c above, whichever occurs first.
e. Special event permits are not required for
balloons (as limited per 17.60.070 B.3.) or
banners 6 ft. or less in height if only used on
Saturdays and Sundays.
ix. Special
Event
See Section 17.60.070 B.
x. Political
Election
See Section 17.60.070 C.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 16 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
R Zones (cont.)
e. Agricultural
Products
Freestanding
1 per parcel
32 sq. ft.
8 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Setbacks:
- 10' from interior
property lines.
- 0' from street
rights-of-way.
a. Copy limited to products produced on the
property or agricultural related affiliation,
and may also include name of owner.
b. Sign is only permitted in the A and R-S zone
districts.
f. Churches and
Schools
Uses are subject to the CH (Church) zone sign standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.7.c.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 17 June, 2013
2. Signs permitted in the C-O (Professional and Administrative Office) Zone District:
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
a. Residential
Uses
Subject to the residential sign standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.1
b. Business ID
Wall
No limit; total
combined area
of all signage
shall not exceed
the maximum
area per
elevation.
Street
elevations:
1 sq. ft. per
linear foot of
the business'
elevation
sign is
located or
100 sq. ft.,
whichever is
less.
Non-street
elevations:
0.5 sq. ft. per
linear foot of
the business'
elevation
sign is
located or
32 sq. ft.,
whichever is
less.
30 ft.
Note: Wall signs
may exceed the
height maximum
if building is 3 or
more stories per
skyline sign
standards.
Yes
Sign shall not project
above roofline of building.
a. Each business shall be entitled a minimum
of 16 sq. ft. of wall signage per elevation.
b. Sign shall not exceed a horizontal length
greater than 70% 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 F.
Pylon or
Monument
4 per street
frontage
(see remarks for
additional
monument
signs)
32 sq. ft.
each
8 ft.
Yes
a. Setbacks:
- 25' from interior
property lines
(not part of a center).
- 0' from street
rights-of-way.
b. Minimum 50' between
signs.
c. 100' from existing
outdoor advertising
structures.
a. Business or center is limited to use of either
pylon or monument.
b. Business or center name is limited to being
listed on only one sign per street frontage.
c. If center name incorporates the name of an
on-site business in any form, said name
shall not be allowed on other sign per item b
d. One additional sign per street frontage is
permitted that only identifies the center.
e. Centers with over 500' of street frontage are
allowed one additional monument sign, then
one for each 200' of additional frontage
along that street.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 18 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
C-O (cont.)
Window
1 per street
frontage
8 sq. ft.
Below 2nd
floor or 15',
whichever
is less
Yes
Ground floor windows
only.
Area limitation and location does not apply to
customary noncommercial holiday decorations
maintained pursuant to 17.60.080 R.
Shingle
1 per elevation
6 sq. ft.
7 ft. min.
ground
clearance
Yes
Shall be at entrance(s)
utilized by the public
during business hours.
Sign shall be oriented for sidewalk pedestrian
traffic perpendicular to the store front.
Name Plate
(wall or door)
1 per loading
entrance
2 sq. ft.
each
6 ft.
No
Adjacent to or on door of
loading entrance of each
tenant.
a. Copy shall be limited to business/tenant
name.
b. Sign is limited to loading entrance only, not
public entrance.
c. Building ID
(multiple
buildings
on site)
Wall
2 per building
10 sq. ft.
each
10 ft.
Yes
Wall only
a. Illumination shall be indirect or backlit;
internal lighting is prohibited.
b. Copy shall pertain only to the name of the
building to assist in providing direction to
the public, commercial name/advertising
copy is prohibited.
d. Temporary
Signs
i. Real Estate
Freestanding,
wall or window
1 per saleable
or leaseable
space
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises
being sold, rented or
leased.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from all property lines.
a. Copy shall pertain to advertise the sale, rent
or lease and not for the purpose of
commercial advertising of a business.
b. Signs shall be removed within 10 days after
the sale, lease or exchange has been
completed.
ii. Construction
Freestanding
1 per project
facing street
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from property lines.
a. Copy limited to type of construction
occurring on-site and name of company
including logo.
b. Sign shall be removed within 10 days after
completion of project.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 19 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
C-O (cont.)
iii. Future
Facility, Use
or Tenant
Freestanding,
wall or window
1 per street
frontage
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from property lines.
a. Copy limited to identify future use consistent
with zoning, or future occupancy and may
include ownership identification.
b. Sign shall be removed upon occupancy of
building or site.
iv. Promotional
Window
Allowed on up
to 3 building
elevations
40% of window
area per
building
elevation
Below 2nd
floor or
10', which-
ever is less
Yes
Ground floor windows
only.
a. Copy limited to promoting merchandise,
services, sales, etc. of business activity.
Business identification is prohibited except
as permitted under 2.b.
b. Area limitation does not include business
identification under 2.b.
c. Area limitation and location does not apply
to customary non-commercial holiday
decorations maintained for a reasonable
time during a holiday season.
Pole banners
4 per light pole
(2 on each side
of pole, back to
back)
30" wide x 96"
tall
(each)
Cannot extend
above the top of
the light pole
Yes
Only allowed on
permanent onsite light
poles
a. Copy limited to promoting merchandise,
services, sales, etc. of business activity.
Business name/logo is limited to a
maximum of 25% of the banner area.
v. Special
Event
See Section 17.60.070 B.
vi. Political
Election
See Section 17.60.070 C.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 20 June, 2013
3. Signs permitted in the C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial) Zone District:
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
a. Residential
Uses
Subject to the residential sign standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.1
b. Business ID
Wall
No limit; total
combined area
of all signage
shall not exceed
the maximum
area per
elevation.
Street elevations:
1 sq. ft. per
linear foot of
the business'
elevation sign
is located or
150 sq. ft.,
whichever is
less.
Non-street
elevations:
0.5 sq. ft. per
linear foot of
the business'
elevation sign
is located or
75 sq. ft.,
whichever is
less.
30 ft.
Note: Wall
signs may
exceed the
height
maximum if
building is
more than 3
stories per
skyline sign
standards.
Yes
Sign shall not project
above roofline of building.
a. Each business shall be entitled a minimum
of 16 sq. ft. of wall signage per elevation.
b. Sign shall not exceed a horizontal length
greater than 70% 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 F.
Pylon or
Monument
Pylon:
1 per street
frontage
Monument:
4 per street
frontage
(see remarks for
additional signs)
Pylon:
150 sq. ft.
Monument:
32 sq. ft. each.
Pylon:
25 ft.
Monument:
8 ft.
Yes
a. Setbacks:
- 25' from interior
property lines
(not part of a center).
- 0' from street
rights-of-way.
b. Minimum 50' between
signs.
c. 100' from existing
outdoor advertising
structures.
a. Business is limited to either pylon or
monument signs; however if center
identification is provided on a pylon then
monuments are permitted.
b. Business or center name is limited to being
on only 1 sign per street frontage.
c. Pylon sign that does not have a minimum
clearance of 8' from the ground to the
bottom of the sign face shall not exceed the
maximum height & area of monument sign.
d. If the center name incorporates the name of
an on-site business in any form or variation,
said business shall not be allowed on other
signs per item b.
e. See Section 17.60.070 D for pylon sign
requirements if proposed as a freeway
oriented sign.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 21 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
C-1 (cont.)
f. Centers with over 500' of street frontage are
allowed one additional monument sign, then
one for each 200' of additional frontage
along that street.
g. Centers with over 1000' of street frontage
are allowed one additional pylon sign along
that street; a minimum of 300' shall be
maintained between pylon signs.
Window
1 per street
frontage
8 sq. ft.
Below 2nd
floor or 10',
whichever is
less
Yes
Ground floor windows
only.
Area limitation and location does not apply to
customary noncommercial holiday decorations
maintained pursuant to 17.60.080 R.
Readerboard/
Menuboard
(wall or
freestanding)
2 per business
32 sq. ft.
each
12 ft.
Yes
a. Shall not be portable.
b. Shall not be placed or
maintained upon any
sidewalk area.
c. Minimum 1' between
signs.
Copy limited to indicating prices, merchandise,
or services offered; official public services
provided on premises; credit cards honored;
directions to customers; and like matters. Use
of streamers, pennants and banners are
prohibited.
Shingle
1 per elevation
6 sq. ft.
7 ft. min.
ground
clearance
Yes
Shall be at entrance(s)
utilized by public during
business hours.
Sign shall be oriented for sidewalk pedestrian
traffic perpendicular to the store front.
Name Plate
(wall or door)
1 per loading
entrance
2 sq. ft.
each
6 ft.
No
Adjacent to or on door of
loading entrance of each
tenant.
a. Copy shall be limited to business/tenant
name.
b. Sign is limited to loading entrance only that
is not the business' public entrance.
c. Building ID
(multiple
buildings
on site)
Wall
1 per building
10 sq. ft..
10 ft.
Yes
Wall only
a. Illumination shall be indirect or backlit;
internal lighting is prohibited.
b. Copy shall pertain only to the name of the
building to assist in providing direction to
the public, commercial name/advertising
copy is prohibited.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 22 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
C-1 (cont.)
d. Temporary
Signs
i. Real Estate
Freestanding,
wall or window
1 per saleable
or leaseable
space
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises
being sold, rented or
leased.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from all property lines.
a. Copy shall pertain to advertise the sale, rent
or lease and not for the purpose of
commercial advertising of a business.
b. Signs shall be removed within 10 days after
the sale, lease or exchange has been
completed.
ii. Construction
Freestanding
1 per project
facing street
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from property lines.
a. Copy limited to type of construction
occurring on-site and name of company
including logo.
b. Sign shall be removed within 10 days after
completion of project.
iii. Future
Facility, Use
or Tenant
Freestanding,
wall or window
1 per street
frontage
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from property lines.
a. Copy limited to identify future use consistent
with zoning, or future occupancy and may
include ownership identification.
b. Sign shall be removed upon occupancy of
building or site.
iv. Promotional
Window
Allowed on up
to 3 building
elevations
40% of window
area per building
elevation
Below 2nd
floor or
10', which-
ever is less.
Yes
Ground floor windows
only.
a. Copy limited to promoting merchandise,
services, sales, etc. of business activity.
Business identification is prohibited except
as permitted under 3.b.
b. Area limitation does not include business
identification under 3.b.
c. Area limitation and location does not apply
to customary non-commercial holiday
decorations maintained pursuant to
17.60.080 R.
Pole banners
4 per light pole
(2 on each side
of pole, back to
back)
30" wide x 96" tall
(each)
Cannot extend
above the top
of the light pole
Yes
Only allowed on
permanent onsite light
poles
a. Copy limited to promoting merchandise,
services, sales, etc. of business activity.
Business name/logo is limited to a
maximum of 25% of the banner area.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 23 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
C-1 (cont.)
v. Special
Event
See Section 17.60.070 B.
vi. Political
Election
See Section 17.60.070 C.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 24 June, 2013
4. Signs permitted in the C-2 (Regional Commercial) and Manufacturing (M-1, M-2, M-3) Zone Districts:
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
a. Residential
Uses
Subject to the residential sign standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.1
b. Business ID
Wall
No limit; total
combined area
of all signage
shall not exceed
the maximum
area per
elevation.
Street elevations:
2 sq. ft. per
linear foot of
the business'
elevation sign
is located or
250 sq. ft.,
whichever is
less.
Non-street
elevations:
1 sq. ft. per
linear foot of
the business'
elevation sign
is located or
125 sq. ft.,
whichever is
less.
30 ft.
Note: Wall
signs may
exceed the
height
maximum if
building is
more than 3
stories per
skyline sign
standards.
Yes
Sign shall not project
above roofline of building.
a. Each business shall be entitled a minimum
of 16 sq. ft. of wall signage per elevation.
b. Sign shall not exceed a horizontal length
greater than 70% 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 F.
Pylon or
Monument
Pylon:
1 per street
frontage
Monument:
4 per street
frontage
(see remarks for
additional signs)
Pylon:
250 sq. ft.
Monument:
32 sq. ft. each.
Pylon:
35 ft.
Monument:
8 ft.
Yes
a. Setbacks:
- 25' from interior
property lines
(not part of a center).
- 0' from street
rights-of-way.
b. Minimum 50' between
signs.
c. 100' from existing
outdoor advertising
structures.
a. Business is limited to either pylon or
monument signs; however if center
identification is provided on a pylon then
monuments are permitted.
b. Business or center name is limited to being
on only 1 sign per street frontage.
c. Pylon sign that does not have a minimum
clearance of 8' from the ground to the
bottom of the sign face shall not exceed the
maximum height & area of monument sign.
d. If the center name incorporates the name of
an on-site business in any form or variation,
said business shall not be allowed on other
signs per item b.
e. See Section 17.60.070 D for pylon sign
requirements if proposed as a freeway
oriented sign.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 25 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
C-2/M (cont.)
f. Centers with over 500' of street frontage are
allowed one additional monument sign, then
one for each 200' of additional frontage
along that street.
g. Centers with over 1000' of street frontage
are allowed one additional pylon sign along
that street; a minimum of 300' shall be
maintained between pylon signs.
Window
1 per street
frontage
8 sq. ft.
Below 2nd
floor or 10',
whichever is
less
Yes
Ground floor windows
only.
Area limitation and location does not apply to
customary noncommercial holiday decorations
maintained pursuant to 17.60.080 R.
Readerboard/
Menuboard
(wall or
freestanding)
2 per business
32 sq. ft.
each
12 ft.
Yes
a. Shall not be portable.
b. Shall not be placed or
maintained upon any
sidewalk area.
c. Minimum 1' between
signs.
Copy limited to indicating prices, merchandise,
or services offered; official public services
provided on premises; credit cards honored;
directions to customers; and like matters. Use
of streamers, pennants and banners are
prohibited.
Shingle
1 per elevation
6 sq. ft.
7 ft. min.
ground
clearance
Yes
Shall be at entrance(s)
utilized by public during
business hours.
Sign shall be oriented for sidewalk pedestrian
traffic perpendicular to the store front.
Name Plate
(wall or door)
1 per loading
entrance
2 sq. ft.
each
6 ft.
No
Adjacent to or on door of
loading entrance of each
tenant.
a. Copy shall be limited to business/tenant
name.
b. Sign is limited to loading entrance only that
is not the business' public entrance.
c. Building ID
(multiple
buildings
on site)
Wall
2 per building
10 sq. ft.
10 ft.
Yes
Wall only
a. Illumination shall be indirect or backlit;
internal lighting is prohibited.
b. Copy shall pertain only to the name of the
building to assist in providing direction to
the public, commercial name/advertising
copy is prohibited.
c. See Section 17.60.070 F if Building ID sign
is proposed as a skyline building sign.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 26 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
C-2/M (cont.)
d. Temporary
Signs
i. Real Estate
Freestanding,
wall or window
1 per saleable
or leaseable
space
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises
being sold, rented or
leased.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from all property lines.
a. Copy shall pertain to advertise the sale, rent
or lease and not for the purpose of
commercial advertising of a business.
b. Signs shall be removed within 10 days after
the sale, lease or exchange has been
completed.
ii. Construction
Freestanding
1 per project
facing street
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be setback
10'from property lines.
a. Copy limited to type of construction
occurring on-site and name of company
including logo.
b. Sign shall be removed within 10 days after
completion of project.
iii. Future
Facility, Use
or Tenant
Freestanding,
wall or window
1 per street
frontage
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be setback
10'from property lines.
a. Copy limited to identify future use consistent
with zoning, or future occupancy and may
include ownership identification.
b. Sign shall be removed upon occupancy of
building or site.
iv. Promotional
Window
Allowed on up
to 3 building
elevations
40% of window
area per building
elevation
Below 2nd
floor or 10',
whichever is
less.
Yes
Ground floor windows
only.
a. Copy limited to promoting merchandise,
services, sales, etc. of business activity.
Business identification is prohibited except
as permitted under 3.b.
b. Area limitation does not include business
identification under 3.b.
c. Area limitation and location does not apply
to customary non-commercial holiday
decorations maintained pursuant to
17.60.080 R.
Pole banners
4 per light pole
(2 on each side
of pole, back to
back)
30" wide x 96" tall
(each)
Cannot extend
above the top
of the light pole
Yes
Only allowed on
permanent onsite light
poles
a. Copy limited to promoting merchandise,
services, sales, etc. of business activity.
Business name/logo is limited to a
maximum of 25% of the banner area.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 27 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed?
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
C-2/M (cont.)
Pennants/
Streamers
2 strands
Each strand
cannot exceed a
height of 18"
Cannot extend
above the roof
of a building or
top of the light
pole
No
May only be placed
around the perimeter of
the area approved for
outdoor sales
a. Text or copy is prohibited.
Pennants/streamers may include single or
multiple colors, metallic hulas, and flags.
v. Special
Event
See Section 17.60.070 B.
vi. Political
Election
See Section 17.60.070 C.
e. Outdoor
Advertising
(billboard)
See Section 17.60.070 E.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 28
5. Signs permitted in the C-B (central business) and C-C (commercial
center) zone districts shall be subject to the C-2 sign standards pursuant
to Section 17.60.060 B.4., except as follows:
a. Agricultural uses permitted by the Planning Director under Section
17.26.011 B. shall be subject to the residential and agriculture/open
space sign standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.1.
6. Signs permitted where there are overlay or combination zones (P, CH,
HOSP, AD, AA, FP-S, SC, PE) 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.1., be allowed 1
illuminated or nonilluminated monument sign for each street
frontage not to exceed an area of 32 square feet and a height of 8
feet; and 1 nonilluminated wall sign not to exceed an area of 32
square feet and a height of 20 feet. Monument signs shall be
setback 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.1., be allowed one 1 illuminated or
nonilluminated monument sign for each street frontage not to exceed
an area of 32 square feet and a height of 8 feet; and 1 illuminated or
nonilluminated wall sign not to exceed an area of 32 square feet and
a height of 20 feet. Monument signs shall be setback 25 feet from all
adjacent property lines. There shall be no setback of any sign from
property lines fronting a public street.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013
Chapter 17.60, Page 29
7. 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.
c. When a P.C.D. or P.U.D. zone is used as a combining zone, the
sign regulations for the base zone shall apply unless otherwise
conditioned by the Planning Commission or City Council.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 30 June, 2013
8. Signs permitted in the Bakersfield Auto Mall area shall be permitted as follows regardless of the underlying zone district:
(a map delineating the area these regulations apply is shown at the end of this chapter)
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
a. Residential
Uses
Subject to the residential sign standards pursuant to Section 17.60.060 B.1.
b. Business ID
Wall
No limit; total
combined area
of all signage
shall not exceed
the maximum
area per
elevation.
Each building
elevation:
2 sq. ft.. per
linear foot of
the business'
elevation sign
is located or
450 sq. ft.,
whichever is
less.
30'
Note: Wall
signs may
exceed the
height
maximum if
building is 3 or
more stories
per skyline
sign standards.
Yes
Sign shall not project
above the roofline of the
building.
a. Each business shall be entitled a minimum
of 50 sq. ft.. of wall signage per elevation.
b. Sign shall not exceed a horizontal length
greater than 70% 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 F.
Pylon or
monument
Pylon:
2 per street
frontage
Monument:
4 per street
frontage
(see remarks for
additional signs)
Pylon:
300 sq.ft.
Monument:
32 sq. ft. each.
Pylon:
50 ft.
Monument:
8 ft.
Yes
a. Setbacks:
- 25' from interior
property lines
(not part of a center).
- 0' from street
rights-of-way.
b. Minimum 50' between
signs.
c. 100' from existing
outdoor advertising
structures.
a. Business is limited to either pylon or
monument signs; however if center
identification is provided on 1 pylon and
there is no 2nd pylon, then monuments are
permitted.
b. Business or center name is limited to being
on only 1 sign per street frontage.
c. Pylon sign that does not have a minimum
clearance of 8' from the ground to the
bottom of the sign face shall not exceed the
maximum height & area of a monument
sign.
d. If the center name incorporates the name of
an on-site business in any form or variation,
said business shall not be allowed on other
signs per item b.
e. See Section 17.60.070 D for pylon sign
requirements if proposed as a freeway
oriented sign.
f. Centers with over 500' of street frontage are
allowed one additional monument sign, then
one for each 200' of additional frontage
along that street.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 31 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
Auto (cont.)
Window
1 per street
frontage
8 sq. ft..
Below 2nd
floor or 10',
whichever is
less
Yes
Ground floor windows
only.
Area limitation and location does not apply to
customary noncommercial holiday decorations
maintained pursuant to 17.60.080 R.
Readerboard/
Menuboard
(wall or
freestanding)
2 per business
32 sq. ft. each
12 ft.
Yes
a. Shall not be portable.
b. Shall not be placed or
maintained upon any
sidewalk area.
c. Minimum 1' between
signs.
Copy limited to indicating prices; merchandise
or services offered; official public services
provided on premises; credit cards honored;
directions to customers; and like matters. Use
of streamers, pennants and banners is
prohibited.
Shingle
1 per elevation
6 sq. ft..
7 ft. min.
ground
clearance
Yes
Shall be at entrance(s)
utilized by public during
business hours.
Sign shall be oriented for sidewalk pedestrian
traffic perpendicular to the store front.
Name Plate
(wall or door)
1 per loading
entrance
2 sq. ft.
6 ft.
No
Adjacent to or on door of
loading entrance of each
tenant.
a. Copy shall be limited to business/tenant
name.
b. Sign is limited to loading entrance only that
is not the business' public entrance.
c. Building ID
(multiple
buildings
on site)
Wall
2 per building
10 sq. ft.
10 ft.
Yes
Wall only
a. Illumination shall be indirect or backlit;
internal lighting is prohibited.
b. Copy shall pertain only to the name of the
building to assist in providing direction to
the public, commercial name/advertising
copy is prohibited.
c. See Section 17.60.070 F if Building ID sign
is proposed as a skyline building sign.
d. Temporary
Signs
i. Real Estate
Freestanding,
wall or window
1 per saleable
or leaseable
space
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises
being sold, rented or
leased.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from all property lines.
a. Copy shall pertain to advertise the sale, rent
or lease and not for the purpose of
commercial advertising of a business.
b. Signs shall be removed within 10 days after
the sale, lease or exchange has been
completed.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 32 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
Auto (cont.)
ii. Construction
Freestanding
1 per project
facing street
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from all property lines.
a. Copy limited to type of construction
occurring on-site and name of company
including logo.
b. Sign shall be removed within 10 days after
completion of project.
iii. Future
Facility, Use
or Tenant
Freestanding,
wall or window
1 per street
frontage
32 sq. ft.
12 ft.
No
a. Shall be on premises.
b. Shall be setback 10'
from all property lines.
a. Copy limited to identify future use consistent
with zoning, or future occupancy and may
include ownership identification.
b. Sign shall be removed upon occupancy of
building or site.
iv. Promotional
Window
Allowed on up
to 3 building
elevations
40% of window
area per building
elevation
Below 2nd
floor or 10',
whichever is
less
Yes
Ground floor windows
only.
a. Copy limited to promoting merchandise,
services, sales, etc. of business activity.
Business identification is prohibited except
as permitted under 4.b.
b. Area limitation does not include business
identification under 4.b.
c. Area limitation and location does not apply
to customary non-commercial holiday
decorations maintained pursuant to
17.60.080 R.
Pole banners
4 per light pole
(2 on each side
of pole, back to
back)
30" wide x 96" tall
(each)
Cannot extend
above the top
of the light pole
Yes
Only allowed on
permanent onsite light
poles
a. Copy limited to promoting merchandise,
services, sales, etc. of business activity.
Business name/logo is limited to a
maximum of 25% of the banner area.
Pennants/
Streamers
2 strands
Each strand
cannot exceed a
height of 18"
Cannot extend
above the roof
of a building or
top of the light
pole
No
May only be placed
around the perimeter of
the area approved for
outdoor sales
a. Text or copy is prohibited.
Pennants/streamers may include single or
multiple colors, metallic hulas, and flags.
Bakersfield Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 17.60 - Signs Page 33 June, 2013
Sign Type Sign Style Maximum
Number
Maximum
Area
Maximum
Height
Illumination
Allowed
Location Restrictions
(also see 17.60.050) Remarks
Auto (cont.)
v. Special
Event
See Section 17.60.070 B.
vi. Political
Election
See Section 17.60.070 C.
e. Outdoor
Advertising
(billboard)
See Section 17.60.070 E.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 34
17.60.070 SPECIALIZED SIGNS.
A. Off-site residential subdivision/project directional kiosk sign program:
The following is intended to provide for the administration of a uniform,
coordinated sign program of kiosks that offer developers of new residential
subdivisions a means of providing direction to their projects. The kiosk signs
will minimize confusion among prospective purchasers of new homes to find
those developments, promote traffic safety by removing competing signs from
busy streets, and reduce visual blight of incompatible sign types in residential
neighborhoods. No such off-site directional sign other than those in
conformance with this chapter shall be erected or maintained within the City.
1. Requirements for directional kiosks.
a. Kiosks shall be permitted in all zone districts except on a lot
developed with a single family residence. They may be permitted
on private land or public right-of-way that is maintained by the
property owner provided the property owner's permission has been
granted in writing. Signs may also be permitted within the public
right-of-way or parkway that is maintained by the City of Bakersfield
or as contracted by the City subject to approval and issuance of an
encroachment permit by the City. All other location restrictions in
Section 17.60.050 shall remain in full force and effect.
b. Kiosks shall be constructed of wood or similar product with
individual panels provided for placement of subdivision or project
names and direction.
c. Kiosk locations shall be approved by the Building Director or
appointed designee. A kiosk shall not be placed closer than
1,000 feet from an existing kiosk or approved site where a kiosk is
to be constructed. The Building Director or appointed designee
may reduce the distance between kiosks where:
i. Kiosks are located at different corners of an intersection
and face different directions.
ii. The street intersection where the kiosk is proposed is less
than 1,000 feet away from a street intersection that
contains a kiosk and it is necessary to provide direction to
subdivisions or projects to which that street provides the
most direct or only access.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 35
iii. Kiosks (2 maximum) are necessary to be placed adjacent
to one another because the number of subdivisions or
projects that are being identified exceeds the number of
panels allowed on 1kiosk.
d. Architectural design, color, letter style, and any other design
elements of the kiosk shall be approved by the Planning
Commission and City Council. All kiosks and other off-site
residential directional signs allowed by Section 17.60.060
(B.1.d.ii.) that are installed within the city limits shall be in
accordance with adopted design criteria.
e. Kiosks shall not exceed a height of 12 feet and a width of 6 feet.
When a kiosk is sited immediately adjacent to a residential
development, it shall not exceed a height of 8 feet. An individual
panel shall be limited to a maximum width of 6 feet and a height
of 10 inches. No more than 8 individual name panels shall be
permitted on a kiosk.
f. Kiosks may have more than 1 face. Multiple faces are
encouraged where the kiosk can be sited to serve traffic traveling
in opposite directions, or where it would reduce the amount of
kiosks needed to provide adequate direction to residential
subdivisions. Multiple faced kiosks shall be approved by the
Building Director or appointed designee.
g. A name panel shall be limited to a single line of text that may
contain only the subdivision, project, builder or developer's name,
or combination thereof. All panels shall include a direction arrow
pointing in the direction of the identified project. Name panels
shall conform to all design elements as approved in accordance
with subsection A.1.d.
h. Tag signs, streamers, banners, balloons, devices, display boards, or
other appurtenances shall not be added, placed upon or erected
adjacent to or within a 100 foot radius of any existing kiosk.
i. Kiosks shall not be illuminated.
j. Kiosks shall not obstruct the use of sidewalks, walkways, bicycle
or hiking trails, and shall not obstruct the free and clear vision of
motor vehicle operators, cyclists, pedestrians, or the visibility of
traffic control signs and lights as determined by the Public Works
Director or appointed designee.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 36
k. Kiosks shall be setback a minimum of 25 feet from side and rear
property lines. No setback shall be required from street frontages
or those kiosks located within public rights-of-way.
2. Permits.
a. Any builder or developer of a new recorded residential subdivision
which contains approved lots or homes which have never been
sold, may apply for a permit to install a kiosk or to place a name
panel on an existing kiosk to provide direction to their subdivision.
b. Applications for a kiosk or name panel (including name changes
to an existing name panel) shall be made on forms provided by
the Building Director or appointed designee, be signed under
penalty or perjury by the applicant, and shall require at minimum,
the following information:
i. The name, mailing address, title, and telephone number of
the property owner, subdivider and developer/builder of the
specific development;
ii. The name and location of the specific development;
iii. A plot plan showing the exact location of the proposed
kiosk, or the existing kiosk(s) where the panel(s) will be
attached;
iv. A statement that the development contains approved lots
or new homes which have not yet been sold;
v. If the permit is for a new name panel or a name change to
an existing name panel, the copy proposed for the panel;
vi. If the permit is for a new kiosk that is proposed to be
located within a public road right-of-way, a copy of the
approved encroachment permit issued by the City of
Bakersfield Public Works Department.
c. The Building Director or appointed designee may issue a permit if:
i. The application is complete and truthful;
ii. The applicant is the person or entity selling new lots or new
homes;
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 37
iii. The development is located entirely within the Metropolitan
Bakersfield 2010 General Plan area;
iv. The kiosk or panel meets all of the design criteria within
this section;
v. The permit is for a name panel and available space exists
on the kiosk(s); or if there is no space available, the
applicant has agreed to be placed on a waiting list for
future placement on a kiosk(s);
vi. If the permit is for a kiosk, the location criteria in this
section has been satisfied;
vii. Appropriate fees have been paid.
3. Program administration.
a. The City may delegate portions of or the entire administration of
the directional kiosk program to another entity by contract that
includes but is not limited to installation and maintenance of
kiosks, and issuance of permits for kiosks and name panels.
b. Kiosks and sign panels permitted in accordance with this section
shall be continuously maintained in good condition by the permit
holder. Upon approval by the city, sign maintenance may be
assumed by a responsible party other than the permit holder.
c. Kiosks shall be sited based on demand and where they will
provide the best direction to residential subdivisions where
homes/lots are being sold.
d. Sign panels shall be available to all developments selling new
homes on a first-come-first-serve basis. Sign panels shall be
placed on a kiosk beginning with the highest position on the kiosk
and progressing downward. Panels shall be grouped based on
the direction of travel with the priority of placement from top to
bottom as follows:
i. left turn;
ii. right turn;
iii. straight ahead.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 38
e. Waiting lists shall be established for each kiosk (existing or
proposed) for new name panels on a first-come-first-serve basis
of applications that have met the requirements of subsection
A.2.c.
f. When a panel name is changed or a panel is removed from a
kiosk, all lower panels within each directional group as defined in
subsection A.3.d. shall be moved upwards so that any new panel
is placed on the bottom of its respective directional group on the
kiosk.
g. All panel changes shall be approved by the Building Director or
appointed designee through the permit process.
h. A specific project or builder is limited to 1 panel for each kiosk.
Multiple panels shall not be combined to identify or provide
information regarding the same specific project or builder. There
shall be no limit on the number of kiosks a specific project may be
identified.
i. Within 10 days after selling the last lot or home or within 2 years
after recordation of the final map for the subdivision of which the
project is located, whichever occurs first, panel signs that identify
said project shall be removed from all kiosks. Two (2) extensions
of time may be granted by the administrator of the kiosk program
not to exceed 1 year for each request if the extension is needed
to complete any sales in that project. If administration of the
program is delegated to an entity other than the City and that
entity denies the extension, the permit holder may appeal the
denial within 5 days of the decision in writing to the Building
Director. The Building Director shall render a decision on the
appeal within 10 days of receiving the appeal which shall be final
and conclusive.
j. Any kiosk shall be completely removed by the permittee whenever
any of the following occur:
i. The kiosk is no longer needed at the location.
ii. The permittee has been notified by the City of Bakersfield
Public Works Department to the remove or relocate the
kiosk on the basis of public safety or necessity, or because
of planned road improvements.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 39
k. For any kiosk erected within the public road right-of-way, a
performance bond in an amount sufficient to remove the structure
shall be approved by and posted with the City of Bakersfield
Public Works Department.
4. Violations and abatement.
a. Off-site residential subdivision/project directional signs that were
legally permitted as of June 1, 1997 shall continue to remain for a
period of 6 months from said date. After that time, all signs not in
conformance with this section shall be removed by the owner at the
owner's cost. Any signs not removed within the required period
shall be subject to summary abatement by the city in accordance
with Section 17.60.110. This subsection shall not apply to existing
kiosk programs that were legally established and maintained by a
private entity where that program contains 5 or more kiosks.
b. Existing kiosk sign programs that were legally established as of June
1, 1997 that are owned and maintained by a private entity where that
program contains 5 or more kiosks, may continue as a
nonconforming kiosk program. These kiosks may be maintained but
shall not be replaced except with a kiosk that conforms to this
section. A nonconforming kiosk shall be removed if it is no longer
necessary at the location, or no longer meets the separation
requirements of Subsection A.1.c. regarding kiosk separation due to
placement of a conforming kiosk. A nonconforming kiosk that is
required to be removed shall be done by the owner at the owner's
cost. Any nonconforming kiosk not removed as required, shall be
subject to summary abatement by the City in accordance with
Section 17.60.110.
c. Any permit issued in accordance with this section shall be
immediately revoked by the Building Director if it has been found that
the permit holder has erected and maintained any sign in violation of
this section. The Building Director shall order any panel currently in
place on a kiosk identifying the builder's/developer's specific
development to be removed immediately after the appeal period has
expired if no appeal has been filed, and that builder/developer shall
be prohibited from having any off-site directional signs or name
panels on any kiosk for that specific development for a period of 180
days. After the 180 day period, the builder/developer may be
allowed kiosk panels but they shall be placed at the bottom of any
waiting list and/or kiosk hierarchy as described in subsections A. 3.
d. e. and f.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 40
d. Any order of the Building Director shall be made in writing,
addressed to the permit holder, and shall set forth the findings for
revoking any permits and the method to appeal the decision. If no
appeal is filed, the decision of the Building Director shall be final and
conclusive.
e. If the City is not the administrator of the kiosk program, the
administrator shall immediately notify the Building Director
regarding any violations in accordance with subsection A.4.c. and
the Building Director shall notify the party in violation in
accordance with subsection A.4.d.
5. Appeal.
a. Should any permit holder be dissatisfied with the decision of the
Building Director to revoke a permit, then the permit holder may, no
later than 10 days after notice of such decision was deposited in the
United States mail, make written objection, subject to the required
appeal fee, to the Board of Building Appeals in care of the Building
Director, setting forth the grounds for dissatisfaction. The Board of
Building Appeals shall hear the objections at a regular meeting no
later than 30 days following the filing of the objection. The permit
holder shall be given written notice of the hearing no later less than
3 days prior to the hearing. The Building Board of Appeals may
sustain, suspend, or overrule the decision of the Building Director,
which decision shall be final and conclusive.
b. Pending hearing before the Building Board of Appeals, all signs,
kiosks and/or name panels in dispute may remain in place until a
final decision is rendered.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 41
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. Signs shall be limited for each business to 60 days a calendar year. This
time may be utilized in any combination of durations; however, the
number of special events shall not exceed 8 a calendar year, and no
single event shall exceed a duration of 15 consecutive days.
2. Balloons and inflated devices provided they do not exceed a height of
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.
3. Copy on a banner or balloon shall not exceed an area of 100 square
feet, and may include the name, symbol or logo of the business or
sponsor, but in no event shall such name or logo exceed ¼ of the total
permitted copy area.
4. Signs may be illuminated and contain movement upon approval by the
Building Director provided they do not adversely affect neighboring
properties or motorists.
5. Nonprofit organizations, as defined in this title, shall be permitted to
advertise a maximum of 5 charitable events per calendar year in
accordance with the following:
a. Signs shall not exceed an area of 32 square feet and a height of 6
feet.
b. Off-site signs may be permitted by the Building Director not to
exceed a total of 8 locations within the city for each event. No off-
site sign shall be allowed within any residential zone district or
project of a residential nature.
c. Signs shall not be erected sooner than 14 days before the event
being advertised, and shall be removed within 3 days after the
event has ended.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 42
d. The Building Director may grant no more than 2 additional signs
or events if it has been demonstrated that the limits in this
subsection place an unnecessary hardship on the nonprofit
organization inconsistent with the intent of this chapter.
e. No fee shall be assessed for permitting said signs.
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 60 days before the election and
shall be removed within 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 8
square feet and a height of 6 feet in residential districts, or 32 square
feet and a height of 8 feet in the commercial, industrial and agricultural
districts.
4. Signs shall not be illuminated.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 43
D. Freeway oriented signs:
Freeway oriented signs identify 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:
1. Signs shall be within the C-1, C-2, C-C, PCD, M-1, M-2 or M-3 zone
districts; and shall also be within one of the rectangular areas 2,000 feet
in width and 3,000 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:
(NOTE: Refer to the maps at the end of this chapter.)
a. State Highway 99 and Olive Drive.
b. State Highway 99 and Airport Drive, except that said rectangular
area shall extend south to Gilmore Avenue.
c. State Highway 99 and State Highways 58/178 (Rosedale
Highway/24th Street), except that said rectangular area shall
extend north to Gilmore Avenue.
d. State Highway 99 and California Avenue.
e. State Highway 99 and Ming Avenue.
f. State Highway 99 and White Lane.
g. State Highway 99 and Panama Lane.
h. State Highway 99 and State Highway 119 (Taft Highway).
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 350 square feet and a height of 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.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 44
E. Outdoor advertising signs (billboards):
All outdoor advertising signs are regulated as follows:
1. Signs are permitted in the C-2, M-1, M-2 and M-3 zone districts, in
addition to that permitted in those respective districts.
2. Signs shall not exceed an area of 300 square feet, excluding cutouts or
extensions provided they do not exceed 30 square feet in area.
3. Signs shall not exceed a height of 35 feet in the C-2 district, or 50 feet in
the M-1, M-2 and M-3 districts.
4. Signs shall not be located less than 1,000 feet from another such sign,
or 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 2 feet apart, and are equal in size and configuration.
7. Signs shall be setback a minimum of 300 feet from any property zoned
residential or developed with residential uses.
8. Signs shall not project over or be placed upon any building or structure.
9. Signs shall be setback 25 feet from adjacent property lines except those
fronting public streets where no setback is required.
10. Signs may be illuminated provided no lighting is directed onto adjacent
properties or public rights-of-way.
11. Electronic message displays as defined in Section 17.04.547 are
permitted.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 45
F. Skyline building signs:
Wall signs for a building that is 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-1, C-2, C-C, C-B, PCD, M-1, 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.
4. Signs shall be comprised solely of individual letters or logos installed a
minimum of 3 inches and a maximum of 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 100 feet or 70%
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 Height
(feet)
Max Letter Height
(inches)
Capital Letter
(inches)
Logo
(inches)
35 - 59 24 36 48
60 - 69 36 54 72
70 - 79 48 72 96
80 - 89 60 90 120
90 - 99 72 108 144
100 - 119 84 126 168
120 or more 96 144 192
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 maximum height. Maximum height of a logo (2 times max. height).
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 46
8. All signs shall be limited to two lines of letters and/or logo.
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
60% of the area which would otherwise be allowed in the particular zone
district, a height of 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.
Bakersfield Municipal Code - Title 17, Zoning Ordinance Signs
June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 47
G. Electronic message displays:
1. Only large retail developments as defined in Section 17.04.367, or
shopping centers encompassing 5 acres or more are permitted use of an
electronic message display on a pylon sign.
2. Only one of the allowed pylon signs permitted along a street frontage
may include an electronic display.
3. If a pylon sign contains an electronic message display and monument
signs are also permitted for the center, only one of the allowed
monument signs along a street frontage may contain an electronic
message display. If a pylon sign does not contain an electronic message
display and monument signs are permitted for the center, only two of the
allowed monument signs along a street frontage may contain an
electronic message display.
4. Pylon signs that contain an electronic message display shall be setback
a minimum of 150 feet from any R, PUD, or OS zone, and 50 feet from
any interior property line not within that center.
5. Electronic message displays are not permitted on pylon signs located on
properties that do not meet the definition of a large retail development or
are shopping centers less than 5 acres as noted in subsection 1. However,
one of the allowed monument signs along each street frontage is permitted
to contain an electronic message display.
6. Electronic message displays shall not be permitted on building walls or in
windows.
7. All other sign regulations that pertain to the particular zone district and
specific business shall apply.
8. Outdoor advertising signs (billboards) may contain electronic message
displays subject to the regulations in Section 17.60.070 E.
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June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 48
H. Projecting business identification signs:
1. Projecting business identification signs are only permitted within the
following areas:
a. Central District Area as defined in Section 10.08.020A. except
that projecting signs shall not be permitted along the street
frontages of State Route 178, State Route 204, and any street
south of the Burlington Northern/Santa Fe Railroad. Where the
Central District boundary follows a street, permitted projecting
signs shall be allowed for business frontages along both sides of
that street.
b. Baker Street frontage between Truxtun Avenue and Monterey
Street. Projecting signs are also permitted along the frontages of
the intersecting streets and alleys with Baker Street one (1) block
in either direction, except that projecting signs shall not be
permitted along the street frontages of Truxtun Avenue and
Monterey Street.
2. In addition to other signs as allowed by this chapter, one projecting sign
is permitted for a ground floor business along each street it fronts. A
second floor or basement business may have a projecting sign only if it
has its own dedicated public street entrance and the sign is located
above or within 5 feet of that entrance.
3. A sign shall not project more than 5 feet beyond its supporting building.
Within an alley where vehicles will pass underneath a sign, that sign
shall not project more than 3 feet beyond its supporting building. An
encroachment permit from the City is required for any signs that project
into the public right-of-way.
4. A sign shall not be placed higher than 15 feet on a building wall or above
the first floor of a multiple story building. Within an alley where vehicles
will pass underneath a sign, that sign shall not be placed higher than 20
feet above the alley surface.
5. A sign shall not exceed an area of 16 square feet.
6. A sign shall not be closer than 10 feet to another projecting sign or to a
freestanding sign, or 5 feet from an interior property line or line dividing
two separate business frontages. A sign shall be at least 2 feet from the
face of the street curb.
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June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 49
7. A sign shall not be less than 8 feet above the surface over which it
projects. Within an alley where vehicles will pass underneath a sign,
that sign shall not be less than 15 feet above the alley surface.
8. A sign shall not exceed a maximum thickness of 12 inches.
9. Internally illuminated signs shall have opaque face panels so that only
the letters, logos, numbers, and/or symbols appear illuminated at night;
use of bulbs or neon for such lettering and symbols is allowed subject to
the provisions of this chapter. Electronic message displays and flashing
signs are prohibited.
10. A sign shall not project above the roof or an apparent eave or parapet,
including the eave of a simulated hipped or mansard roof. A sign shall
not be attached to the sloping face of mansard overhangs or other
architectural features intended to resemble or imitate roof structures.
11. A two-dimensional fabric banner suspended perpendicular to a wall may
be displayed in lieu of a projecting sign provided the banner is anchored
to not hang freely and meets all of the requirements of this subsection
for a projecting sign.
12. Businesses that occupy a space with public access from only an alley or
courtyard may share one directory sign as defined by this code along
each public street to direct pedestrians to those businesses. A directory
sign shall not exceed a maximum height of 8 feet or an area of 6 square
feet; only indirect external illumination is allowed.
13. A single vertical projecting sign may be installed along each street
frontage on a building that is three or more stories tall that identifies the
building name or use, or that of a major tenant. The sign is subject to all
provisions of this subsection except that there is no minimum sign area;
it must be mounted at the second floor or higher, and is limited to a
single line of text.
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June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 50
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 16
square feet and a height of 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 6 square feet in area and 6 feet in
height. Business logo is permitted provided it does not exceed 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 3 flags with no duplication 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.
K. Neighborhood Watch and similar type notices.
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L. Notices posted on public bulletin boards or public kiosks designed for such notices.
M. No trespassing, solicitation, hunting, minors, and similar such signs, provided
they do not exceed 4 square feet in area and 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 8 square feet and a height of 6 feet.
S. Taxicab signs as authorized and approved as to size, form and contents by the
city manager under Section 5.50.100.
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June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 52
17.60.090 PROHIBITED SIGNS.
The following signs are specifically prohibited:
A. Animated, moving, revolving and rotating signs.
B. Banners, flags, pennants and balloons, except as specified in this chapter.
C. Bench signs.
D. Electronic message displays, except as specified in this chapter.
E. Flashing, blinking, and reflecting signs, except as specified in this chapter.
F. Outdoor advertising signs, except as specified in this chapter.
G. Permanent "for sale" signs.
H. Portable signs including A-Frame signs, except as specified in this chapter.
I. Projecting signs except as specified in this chapter.
J. Roof signs.
K. 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.
L. 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 vehicle itself as being
for sale, or to window stickers or placards on vehicles in any vehicle sales lot.
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June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 53
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 effective 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 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.
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June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 54
E. A non-conforming sign destroyed or damaged to an extent exceeding 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.
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.
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8. If an existing off-premise business identification sign was permitted
under a special sign permit by the city and has remained in effect and in
compliance with the provisions of that permit, the sign may remain and
can be upgraded or altered to reflect a change of business or ownership
names even though on-premise signs are being changed or added.
However, this sign shall be subject to the following before any new
permits are issued:
a. The sign shall continue to only identify the business or services
offered, and shall include direction to the property for which the
sign was originally permitted by the special sign permit.
b. The area of the sign shall not exceed 96 square feet. If the sign is
larger, it shall be reduced to not exceed this area. If the sign is
smaller, it shall not exceed its present size. If a sign is reduced in
area, under no circumstances shall it be enlarged even if previous
approvals granted a larger size.
c. The sign shall not be moved or reoriented, except under direction
of the building director, to improve traffic visibility or safety, to
relocate it outside the public right-of-way, or to increase
separation from other legal freestanding signs.
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.
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June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 56
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 welfare 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 constitutes 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 be
made immediately. Otherwise, upon a written notice from the Building Director,
the necessary maintenance, alterations or repairs as required by this chapter
pursuant to Section 17.60.060 A.9. shall be made within 10 days after the date
of such notice. In the event the owner, or person in lawful possession fails to
maintain, alter or repair in accordance with such notices, in 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.
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 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 conjunction with, any other remedy provided in this
chapter or otherwise provided by law.
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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 the Government Code.
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 90 days, or which was used to advertise
or identify that which has been moved or discontinued for a period of 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 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 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 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 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.
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June, 2013 Chapter 17.60, Page 58
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.
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.
E. Permits issued in conflict with the provisions of this chapter shall be null and
void.
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.
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SIGN TYPES
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RESIDENTIAL DIRECTIONAL KIOSK