HomeMy WebLinkAbout1538 - ORDINANCES - 10/2/1996ORDINANCE NO. 1538
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 9320 OF THE ZONING
ORDINANCE (SIGNS) IN REGARD TO REVISED STANDARDS
FOR FREEWAY -ORIENTED SIGNS, RESTAURANT MENU
BOARDS, ATTRACTION BOARDS, SIGNS FOR COMMERCIAL
& INDUSTRIAL CENTERS, TIME -TEMPERATURE DISPLAYS,
SIGNS FOR AUTO DEALERSHIPS, SIGNS FOR MULTI -FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL & HOTEL PROPERTIES, HOTEL RATE SIGNS,
ELECTION & POLITICAL SIGNS, CONSTRUCTION SIGNS,
DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN COMMERCIAL SIGNS, &ABATEMENT
OF SIGNS IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY; AND VARIOUS
OTHER MISCELLANEOUS AMENDMENTS.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, DOES ORDAIN AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Section 9320.00 through Section 9320.06 of the Zoning Ordinance is
amended to read as Follows:
"SECTION 9320.00 SIGNS
Sections: 9320.01 - Short Title
9320.02 - Purpose
9320.03 - Definitions
9320.04 - Prohibited Signs
9320.05 - Permitted Signs - Commercial & Industrial Business
9320.06 - Permitted Signs - Residential business
9320.07 - Permitted Signs - Real Estate
9320.08 - Permitted Signs - Temporary
932"8- Permitted Signs - Political
9320.09 - Permitted Signs - Downtown/Uptown
9302.10 - General Provisions
9320.11 - Abatement
SECTION 9320.01 SHORT TITLE
This Section may be. referred to as the Sign Ordinance of the City of Palm Springs.
SECTION 9320.02 PURPOSE
Recognizing that Palm Springs is one of the country's foremost desert resorts, the City
Council finds that proper sign control is necessary to maintain the high aesthetic values
which both residents and visitors to the City have come to expect. Signs shall complement
the architecture of the building on which it is placed and/or the immediate surroundings,
including such elements as size, color, location, graphic presentation, landscaping, lighting
and construction material. A sign ordinance provides equitable standards for all businesses
to identify the location of good and services. Main identification sign(s) shall be allowed
in conjunction with accessory/convenience signs as necessary.
' Therefore, the purpose of this Sign Ordinance is to provide standards to safeguard life,
health, property and the public welfare and to provide the means for adequate identification
of businesses and other sign users by regulating and controlling the design, location, and
maintenance of all signs in the City.
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A.SECTION 9320.03 DEFINITIONS
.wC.x .
The following definitions shall apply to this Section unless another meaning is clearly
apparent from the context. Definitions in Section 9200.09 of the Palm Springs Zoning
Ordinance shall also apply.
1. Abandoned Sian - A sign which no longer directs, advertises or identifies a legal ,
business establishment, product or activity on the premises where such sign is
displayed.
2. Abatement - Elimination and removal of any sign in violation of the Palm Springs
Sign Ordinance.
3. Affixed To be attached in any manner, including, but not limited to, adhesive
substances or suction, or to be touching in any way, especially leaning against.
4. Amortization - As pertaining to the Palm Springs Sign Ordinance, amortization
shall be the gradual extinction of non -conforming signs.
5. Animated Sion - Any sign which is designed to give a message through a
sequence of progressive changes of parts or lights or degree of lighting.
6. Attraction Board - Any sign which provides for changeable letters, numbers or
symbols.
7. Banners - A sign composed of lightweight material either enclosed or not
enclosed in a rigid frame.
8. Buildina Frontaae - The linear length of a building facing a public street or
pedestrian mall.
9. Canopy - A permanent roof -like shelter extending from part or all of a building ,
face and constructed of some durable material which may or may not project
over a public right-of-way.
10. Center Identification Sion - A sign identifying a center or complex. For
purposes of this Section a center or complex shall be defined as a group of
three or more retail, wholesale, industrial or professional uses utilizing common
facilities including off-street parking, access, and landscaping, not necessarily
under single ownership.
11 . Directory - A sign identifying and locating residential, business or industrial uses
within a building, subdivision, planned development, center or complex.
12. Election Sian - Arty sign supporting, opposing or otherwise addressing a ballot
measure, proposition or other issue, or a candidate for electoral office, set to
be directly voted upon by the general public or a portion of the general public.
13. Entertainment Board -Any assemblage of verbiage designed to advertise current
or coming entertainment scheduled to occur on the premises. Also attraction
board.
14. Free-standing or monument sign - Any sign which is not attached to a building ,
or fence, or wall which is attached to a building.
15. Height of Sian - The distance measured from the top of the nearest street curb
to the highest projection of the sign structure, including architectural design
features.
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16. Main Sinn - The largest single permitted sign on a property.
17. Menu Board - Any assemblage of verbiage designed to advertise currently
available food and/or beverage offerings.
18. Multi -Tenanted Buildina - A building containing more than one individual
business within a shopping, professional or industrial complex.
' 19, Night-club - A place of entertainment serving food and beverages having a floor
show and/or providing music for dancing. For the purposes of this Section,
cabarets and discotheques shall be considered night clubs.
20. Non-Conformina Sian - A sign lawfully erected but which does not conform to
the current provisions of the Sign Ordinance.
2.1. Off -Site and Off -Premise Sians. Billboards and Posters - Any sign which
advertises goods, products, services or facilities not necessarily sold on the
premises on which the sign is located.
22. Political Sian - Any sign, other than an election sign, which is intended to
address a political, religious, civic, social or other issue, event or occurrence.
23. Restricted/Urnited residential Comolex - Any residential complex that controls
vehicular/pedestrian entry to the complex by virtue of wall and/or gate design.
24. Service Sian - Any assemblage of verbiage designed to advertise currently
available services or products offered by a business.
25. Sian - Any identification, description, illustration or device illuminated or non -
illuminated, which is visible from any public place or is located on private
property and exposed to the public and which directs attention to a product,
place, activity, person, institution, business, or solicitation with the exception
of window display. Any emblem, painting, banner, pennant, placard, lighting
or other item, designed to advertise, identify, or convey information shall be
considered a sign. National flags or Flags of political subdivisions shall not be
construed as signs.
This definition shall not include official notices issued by any court or public
body or officer or directional warning or information sign or structures required
by or authorized by law or by Federal, State, County or City authority. Nor
shall it apply to an interior unlit sign or graphic, other than a sale sign, with
letters or numbers less than two (2) inches high per foot of distance from the
street front glass nor to signs located further than three (3) feet from the street
front glass.
26. Sian, Sale - Any sign, graphic or collage that indicates a sale, by virtue of a
special reduction, or percentage reduction, in price of merchandise, including,
but not limited to, a close-out of merchandise, quitting business sale, lost -lease
sale, moving sale or overstocked sale.
27. Sian Area - The area of a sign without a border placed on the wall of a building
shall be computed by enclosing the entire sign within sets of parallel lines
touching the outer limits of the sign message and computing the area thus
' enclosed. The area of other signs shall be calculated by adding the outer
dimensions of all faces capable of presenting a sign message including the
standard and the frame.
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28. Sign Proqram - Design criteria established to guide the design of all signs on a
building or complex, sign programs can, but need not mandate specific
elements such as material, color, size, location, lighting, and uniformity.
SECTION 9320.04 PROHIBITED SIGNS
Any sign not specifically authorized by the Sign Ordinance shall be prohibited unless '
required by law or utilized by a proper governmental agency. The following signs are
expressly prohibited:
1 . Rotating, Moving, Flashing, Reflecting, Prismatic or Blinking Signs: Signs which
rotate, move flash, reflect, blink or appear to do any of the foregoing shall be
prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to flags, banners, pennants,
inflatable objects, and balloons, unless otherwise authorized in Section 9320.08
or approved as a permanent architectural feature pursuant to Section 9404.00
(Architectural Review).
2. Signs on Public Property or Right -of -Way: Signs on public property or right-of-
way shall be prohibited unless otherwise authorized in this Chapter.
3. Signs Advertising the Use, Name of the Owner, Products or Service Not
Available on the Premises: Any sign which advertises a use not being made on
the premises, the name of the owner or user, or which identifies a product, an
interest, service or entertainment not available on the premises shall be
prohibited for any business without street frontage unless otherwise authorized
in conjunction with a public transportation facility.
4. Businesses Without Street Frontage: Except as otherwise regulated, signs other
than those authorized on the multiple tenant identification sign or an approved
sign program shall be, prohibited for any business without street frontage. '
5. Signs Located on the Third or Higher Story: All signs located on a third or
higher story shall be prohibited, except for those in conjunction with a resort
hotel.
6. Signs affixed to Windows or Doors: Any sign, merchandise, or graphic,
otherwise affixed to windows or doors, interior or exterior, otlher than those
permitted by this Chapter shall be prohibited.
7. Signs Facing Private Property: Signs which do not face a public or private right-
of-way, or plaza, promenade or arcade, or public or private; parking area
(parking associated with the; same premises) small be prohibited.
8. Imitation of `traffic Signal: No person shall place, maintain or display in view
of any street or highway, any sign, signal, or device, which resembles an
official traffic sign or signal. Visual obstruction of any official traffic sign or
signal is prohibited.
9. Signs in residential zones identifying home occupations.
10, Signs displaying obscene matter.
11 . Signs employing exposed raceways, ballast bores, transformers, crossovers or ,
conduits, unless otherwise approved by the Director of Planning & Building or
the Planning Commission.
12. Signs attached, affixed to or from the interior of any merchandize or products
displayed outside of permanent buildings.
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SECTION 9320.05 PERMITTED SIGNS - COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS
A. MAIN SIGNS
The number and area of signs as outlined in this Section are intended to be maximum
standards and do not necessarily insure architectural compatibility. In addition to the
enumerated standards, consideration shall be given to a sign's relationship to the
overall design of the subject property and the surrounding community.
1 . Sians for Residential uses in a commercial zone. Section 9320.06 shall apply.
2. Sions for Commercial and Industrial Uses. Except as otherwise provided in this
Section, each separate business shall be limited to one (1) main sign. Where
the sign is located at a right angle to the right-of-way, each face may be
allowed 75% of the area otherwise permitted for a main sign. Relative thereto,
the following provisions shall apply:
a. Buildings within one hundred (100) feet of right-of-way. The maximum
area of a main sign for any business in a building located within one
hundred (100) feet of the right-of-way upon which it faces shall be one (1)
square foot of sign area per lineal foot of frontage which the business has
facing on a right-of-way, plaza, promenade, arcade, or parking lot (in the
case of shopping centers). Except as otherwise provided herein, such
signs shall have a surface area no greater than fifty (50) square feet. No
such sign shall be closer than ten (10) feet from any other sign permitted
hereunder. The main sign must be located adjacent to or on the building
facing the right-of-way or parking lot from which its maximum allowable
size is determined.
' b. Buildings one hundred (100) feet or more from the right-of-way. The total
aggregate area for a main sign for any business in a building located one
hundred (100) feet or more from any right-of-way upon which it faces shall
be the equivalent of one and one-half (1/2) square feet of sign area per
lineal foot of frontage which the building has facing on a right-of-way or
parking lot. Except as provided herein, such signs shall have a surface
area no greater than seventy-five (75) square feet. No main sign shall be
closer than ten (10) 'feet from any other sign permitted hereunder. The
main sign must be located adjacent to the right-of-way or on the building
or parking lot from which its maximum allowable size is determined.
C. Additional sian area for a sinale business in a buildina havinq over fiftv
(50) feet of frontage. A single business having a lineal frontage on any
right-of-way in excess of fifty (50) feet shall be entitled to in addition to
a. or b, above, an additional one (1) square foot of sign area for each four
(4) feet of frontage in excess of fifty (50) feet up to one hundred (100)
feet, and an additional one (1) square foot of sign area for each eight (8)
feet of frontage in excess of hone hundred (100) feet.
d. Businesses Not on the Ground Floor. Businesses fronting on a main
thoroughfare maintained exclusively on the second floor of a multiple story
building shall be entitled to fifty percent (50%) of the sign area authorized
for businesses conducted on the ground floor of the building.
' e. Buildinas within one thousand (1000) feet of the riqht-of-wav of Interstate
10. Notwithstanding the regulations of subsections a. - d. above, the
maximum area of a main sign for any business in a building located within
one thousand (1000) feet of the right-of-way of Interstate 10 shall be one
and one-half (1'h ) square feet of sign area per lineal foot of frontage which
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the business has facing on the right-of-way a6[ Interstate 10. Except as
otherwise provided herein, such signs shall have a surface area no greater
than one hundred fifty (150) square feet. No such sign shall be closer
than twenty-five (25) feet from any other sign permitted hereunder. The
main sign must be located adjacent to or on the building facing Interstate
10.
3. Height. Except as otherwise regulated, the top of any sign shall not be higher
than the building on which it is located and in no event higher than twenty eight
(28) feet.
ACCESSORY AND CONVENIENCE SIGNS
1. Sinn for Pedestrian Traffic. Where the principal sign for a business is located
so that it cannot be seen by pedestrian traffic, a non -illuminated sign in addition
to that otherwise allowed in this Section shall be permitted. Such a sign shall
be no larger than six (6) square feet four (4) square feet per face if at a right
angle to the street) and it shall be designed and located so as to not district
from the appearance of the building or violate the intent of the Sign Ordinance.
Signs may be divided on either side of fascia or architectural element. The
lowest point of any such sign shall be seven feet above any pedestrian
walkway.
2. Customer Convenience Signs. Each individual business shall be permitted the
following signs on the entry door, on the building adjacent to the entry door, or
inside the glass window nearest to the entry.
a. Open/Closed Signs: A single one (1) square -foot sign per street entrance.
b. Service Signs: One service sign not more than two (2) square feet in size
shall be allowed.
c. Menu Boards: One menu board, with a maximum display size of six (6)
square feet per face, may be allowed at businesses which are permitted
to offer food and/or beverage service; such signs shall be professionally
designed and constructed. Such signs may not be placed in the public
right-of-way.
d. Hours/Days: Maximum two-inch letter/nurnber height per line.
e. Credit Cards/Service Decals: Credit card and other service decals may be
displayed in a contiguous one (1) square foot area located behind the glass
line.
3. Pedestrian Sian Directory for Shops Within Arcades or Malls, Where a
pedestrian arcade or mall has been developed with shops, a sign directory may
be allowed which will identify the arcade or mall and each of the shops which
do not have frontage on the public right-of-way. The sign directory may be
attached to the building or may be free standing. The arcade or mall
identification sign shall not be larger than six (6) square feet per side, and the
sign for the. individual 'tenants shall be no larger than two (2) square feet per
side.
4. Listinq of Business Associates and/or Sub -Lessees. In addition to the other sign
usage authorized herein, each separate business shall be allowed lettering on
or behind windows facing the public view indicating the owners, operators or
business associates exercising the use, provided that such lettering shall be
enclosed within a single area and shall not exceed a total of three (3) square
feet. Not more than one such sign shall be permitted per entrance.
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Interior Real Estate Office Sians. In addition to the other sign usage authorized
herein, Real Estate offices may use internal display boards subject tot he
following provisions:
Real estate display boards shall be limited to not more than three (3) signs
and/or attraction boards, no one of which shall be larger in area than one-half
(1 /2) the total authorized square footage authorized in this paragraph. The total
' square footage of such signs may be twenty percent (20%) of the total window
area on which they face but not to exceed twenty (20) square feet. Signs shall
be located no closer than one (1) foot from a window facing public view.
Letters and/or numbers shall not exceed three-quarters (3/4) inch in height. The
intent of this provision is to allow only such window pricing and other such
integrated advertising matter as is deemed necessary and proper to the
merchandising of the properties being advertised.
Use of Attraction Boards by Public and Quasi -Public Uses. In addition to the
other sign usage authorized herein, uses which offer public service programs to
the public shall be allowed one (1) attraction board to advertise such
entertainment or program. The text of the sign shall advertise only those
services or programs offered on the site or of general public or philanthropic
interest; off -site advertising is prohibited. The maximum allowable size for an
attraction board shall be fifty (50) square feet if it faces the street; and thirty
(30) square feet per face if the sign is at right angles to the street. Showcases
may be allowed in addition to an attraction board, if approved by the Director
of Planning & Building or the Planning Commission as part of the overall design.
The copy on the attraction board may be changed at intervals of ten (10)
seconds or greater.
7. Use of Attraction Boards by Entertainment Uses. In addition to the other sign
usage authorized herein, uses which offer entertainment to the public shall be
allowed one attraction board to advertise such entertainment or program. The
text of the sign shall advertise only those programs offered on the site; off -site
advertising is prohibited. The maximum allowable size for an attraction board
shall be twenty-five (25) square feet if it faces the street; and fifteen (15)
square feet per face if the sign is at right angles to the street. Multiple theaters
may have multiple attraction boards, in excess of the size limitation above, if
the design, location and size are compatible with the overall design of the
building and/or complex, as determined by the Planning ,Commission.
Showcases may be allowed in addition to an attraction board, if approved by
the Director of Planning and Building or the Planning Commission as part of the
overall design. The copy on the attraction board may be changed at intervals
of five (5) minutes or greater.
C. SPECIAL PROVISIONS
Gasoline Service Stations.
Gasoline service stations shall be limited to one (1) double-faced sign of
an area not to exceed thirty-six (36) square feet on each side face. A
freestanding sign, if approved, shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height. In
addition, a single 10-square-foot sign, fixed flat on the surface of the
building, shall be allowed. The height of this sign shall not exceed twenty
(20) feet.
' b. In addition to the signs for public safety and convenience authorized by
Section 9320.-09-B-1, the Director of Planning & Building may authorize
and approve instructional or directional signs not to exceed two (2) square
feet or directional signs not to exceed two (2) square feet per face when
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deemed necessary for the convenience of patrons of gasoline service
stations.
2. Gasoline Price Sians. Nothing in Section 9320.04, or in any other provision of
this Sign Ordinance, relating to rates or prices shall be construed as prohibiting
compliance with Section 135:31 of the Business and Professions Code of the
State of California which relates to the posting of gasoline prices. Any sign,
statement or other advertising medium posted or displayed shall conform to all '
of the requirements of this Section.
3. Sians for Large -Scale Commercial and Industrial Centers.,
a. In addition to the sign area allowed for individual businesses„ commercial
and industrial centers in excess of three and one-half (3 1 /2) acres of land shall
be allowed one (1) identification sign on each street frontage. Such signs shall
not extend beyond the property or into the right-of-way and shall be used solely
to identify the center. The allowable sign area shall be ten (10) square feet of
sign per acre 'to a maximum area of fifty (50) square feet per face. Signs shall
not exceed a maximum height of eight (8) feet. One additional sign may be
permitted if the street frontage is greater than, and the signs are separated by
a distance of no less than, four hundred fifty (450) feet; if multiple signs are
allowed, they shall be located at street: intersections or access derives.
b. Commercial and industrial centers in excess of fifteen (15) acres of land
shall be allowed one (1) identification sign on each street frontage not to
exceed one hundred twenty-five (125) square feet per face. Such signs shall
not extend beyond the property or into the right-of-way and shall be used solely
to identify the center and its anchor stores which individually exceed twenty
thousand (20,000) square in gross floor area. Signs shall not exceed a
maximum height of twelve (12) feet. One additional sign may be permitted if
the street frontage is greater than, and the signs are separated by a distance '
of no less than, five hundred (500) feet; if multiple signs are allowed, they shall
be located at street intersections or access drives.
c. Shopping centers, of at least seventy-five (75) acres in area and which abut
a freeway and where at least. thirty-five percent (35%) of the square footage
in the center is retail commercial, shall be permitted a single identifi�:ation sign
which is consistent with the following:
1 . the sign shall not exceed fifty (50) feet in height and thirty (30) feet
in width;
2. the sign shall be perpendicular to the freeway and shall be set back
at least five (5) feet, but no more than fifty (50) feet, from the
freeway right-of-way, and at least three hundred fifty (350) feet from
any secondary or major thoroughfare;
3. the sign area shall not exceed seven hundred fifty (750) square feet
per face with a maximum of two faces; .and
4. the text shall be limited to the name of the shopping center and its
anchor stores which individually exceed fifty thousand (50,000)
square feet in gross floor area.
4. Free-Standina Sians. Except as otherwise provided herein, free-standing signs
shall be prohibited on a single parcel of property containing more than one
business. Where authorized for a single business, a free-standing sign shall not
be located within the public right-of-way and shall not exceed eight (8) feet in '
height unless otherwise permitted. Free-standing signs shall be subject to all
other provisions of this Section.
5. Maior Stores Not I-lavina Street Frontage._ Retail establishments which have a
floor area in excess of fifty thousand (50,000) square feet and are so located
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within a shopping complex that they are not afforded street frontage shall be
allowed signs as follows:
a. One (1) single -face sign per major or secondary street frontage, not to
exceed fifty (50) square feet in area per store affected. Said sign shall be
allowed for no more than two (2) street frontages. The top of any sign
shall not be higher than the building on which it is located and in no event
higher than twenty-eight (28) feet.
b. Such signs shall be located in accordance with the provisions and intent
of this Ordinance and in keeping with the architectural design of the
shopping center.
6. Sian Proaram for Multi-Tenented Buildings. Sign programs shall be required for
all buildings with more than one tenant. Sign programs shall remain in force
until a new program is submitted and approved. Signs within approved sign
programs shall be required to obtain permits, submit applicable fees and shall
be in conformance with the approved sign program. Sign programs shall
integrate with the architecture of the building complex, including such elements
as size, color, location, and construction material. A sign program may be
approved which varies from the specific limitations of the sign ordinance if the
Planning Commission finds that due to the physical characteristics of the
property and the orientation and design of the structures on the property, strict
application of the regulations of the Sign Ordinance will not give adequate
visibility to the signage; that the approved program will be compatible with the
design of the property and will represent the least departure from the standards
of the Ordinance necessary for the effectiveness of the program; and that the
approved program is compatible with the surrounding property and not contrary
to the purpose of the Sign Ordinance.
7. Complex Identification Signs. In addition to main identification signs allowed
under this chapter for individual businesses, a separate sign identifying a
building or complex of businesses may be allowed as part of an approved sign
program (see Section 9320.05.C.6). This sign shall not exceed twenty (20)
square feet unless no individual tenant signs are included in the sign program
in which case the sign area may be based on the frontage formula. Such a sign
may be free standing.
8. Special Sian Districts. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the City Council
from adopting special sign districts as part of a Specific Plan, Redevelopment
Plan, Planned Development District or the like when special sign provisions are
necessary or appropriate to implement General Plan provisions and goals.
9. Time -Temperature Displays. Time and/or temperature displays may be
permitted as an integral part of a permitted main sign or as part of a sign
program. Such displays shall not rotate, move, flash or blink, and the alpha-
numeric characters that make up the display shall change only as real time
and/or temperature changes. The change between time and temperature modes
shall take place at intervals no less than ten (10) seconds.
10. Automobile Dealerships. The sign area allowed for individual businesses may
be applied to each individual structure wherein automobiles are displayed for
sale. In addition, automobile dealerships may be permitted up to forty (40)
square feet of sign area for the exclusive use of logos, and corresponding
names, representing the makes of automobiles sold by the dealership; additional
area shall not be granted for multiple street frontages.
11. freewav Sians. In addition to other signs permitted, freeway -oriented signs
designed to be viewed primarily from Interstate 10 in the vicinity of the
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Whitewater, Indian Avenue/Indian Canyon Drive and Gene Autry Trail
intersections may be permitted by the Planning Commission on properties
designated "Highway Commercial," by either the Zoning Ordinance or the
General Plan, pursuant to Section 9404.00 (Architectural Review). Signs shall
be so constructed, erected and maintained to insure propriety and integration
with the surrounding environment, topography and land uses. The following
standards are intended to restrict such signs to freeway -oriented businesses
and set development standards:
a. One (1) freeway-orianted sign may be allowed to identify the name of the ,
freeway-orientod use which occupies the same parcel on which the sign
is located except as otherwise provided herein. Freeway oriented use
means any business or group of businesses which as their primary purpose
caterto the nonresident„ traveling public on Interstate 10. Such uses shall
be limited to hotels, restaurants and automobile service stations or other
similar businesses if the Planning Commission 'determinas that said
business primarily and customarily would cater to the Interstate traveler.
A freeway -oriented sign may also list adjacent or nearby off -premise
freeway -oriented businesses in the Highway Commercial (II-C) Zone.
However, a freeway -oriented business may be listed on only one freeway -
oriented sign structure.
b. A freeway -oriented sign identifying a freeway -oriented use shall be within
one -thousand (1000) feet' of the point of intersection of the freeway with
the street served by ramps from said freeway.
C. Freeway -oriented sign structures shall be located in such a nnanner so as
not to adversely obscure the visibility of another existing freeway -oriented
sign structure from Interstate 10.
d. Signs which exceed a height of twenty-five (26) feet may be approved '
only after review of a flag test to prove need that the requested height is
necessary for visibility from Interstato 10. The height of freeway -oriented
signs and their related structures, for a single business, shall not exceed
fifty (50) feet. The height may be increased an additional five feet for
each additional business advertised, provided the total height does not
exceed seventy-five (75) feet.
e. The distance between the lowest portion of the .sign face and ground level
shall not be less than one-half (%2 ) the height of the sign structure.
f. The area of each sign face shall not exceed one hundred fifty (150) square
feet per business advertised.
g. The text on freeway -oriented signs shall be limited to corporate logos or
business names only. The minimum size letter in the text of the sign shall
be one (1) foot in vertical or horizontal dimension, and the maximum size
letter shall be three (3) feet.
h. Illumination shall be limited to internal lighting. All freestanding signs shall
have underground utility service.
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SECTION 9320.06 PERMITTED SIGNS - APARTMENTS, HOTELS, RESORT HOTELS AND
RESIDENTIAL MOBILEHOME PARKS
This Section shall be applicable to apartments, hotels, resort hotels, residential mobilehome
parks, and miscellaneous businesses and uses allowed in residential zones. The number
and area of signs as outlined in this Section are intended to be maximum standards and do
not necessarily insure architectural compatibility. In addition to the enumerated standards,
consideration shall be given to a sign's relationship to the overall design of the subject
property and the surrounding community.
A. MAIN SIGNS
Apartments, Hotels. Condominium Complexes. and Residential Mobilehome
Parks. Apartments, hotels and residential mobilehome parks shall be allowed
one (1) sign of twenty (20) square feet, plus one (1) additional square foot of
sign area for each separate rental unit to which the sign pertains. A separate
rental unit as used herein shall mean each room or combination of rooms for
which a separate lodging charge is made. Such signs shall include in their
design layout all accessory signs. The total sing area for this use shall not
exceed a maximum of fifty (50) square feet. The criteria to be used in
designing and locating these signs shall be those of proportion, simplicity, utility
and compatibility with surrounding uses and development. One (1) additional
sign may be permitted if the street frontage is greater than, and the signs are
separated by a distance of no less than, one hundred seventy (170) feet; if
multiple signs are allowed, they shall be located at street intersections or access
drives.
2. Resort Hotels. Resort hotels (full -service hotels containing 100 guest rooms or
more) shall be allowed one (1) sign of one and one-half (1/2) square feet per
separate rental unit, to a maximum of three hundred (300) square feet. The
sign area provided in this Section shall include, but not be limited to, accessory
signs and Attraction Boards. The criteria to be used in designing and locating
these signs shall be those of proportion, simplicity, utility and compatibility with
surrounding uses and development. One (1) additional sign, not to exceed a
maximum of fifty (50) square feet, may be permitted if the street frontage is
greater than, and the signs are separated by a distance of no less than, one
hundred seventy (170) feet; if multiple signs are allowed, they shall be located
at street intersections or access drives.
3. Other uses Allowed in a Residential Zone. One identification sign not exceeding
twenty (20) square fee in area shall be permitted for an authorized use
(churches, clubs, stables, and the like). Such use shall be separate and not in
conjunction with a permitted hotel or apartment use. Such signs shall be
subject to all other applicable restrictions of this Section.
B. ACCESSORY SIGNS
1. Attraction Boards for Hotels/Resort Hotels. An attraction board may be
included in the design and allowable sign area for a hotel/resort hotel that has
accessory commercial uses, subject to its location and design being approved
as provided herein.
a. The attraction board shall be designed and located so that it is made an
integral part of the principal sign, except if the principal sign is designed
and located on a building in such a manner that an attached attraction
board would detract from the appearance of said sign, a detached
attraction board 'ue required. The size of a detached attraction board
shall be counted as part of the total allowable sign area.
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5C I�";
b. The copy on the attraction board may be changed at intervals of;Jive (5)
minutes or greater.{ The text of the sign shall advertise only those services
or programs offered on the site; off -site advertising is prohibited. The
posting of rates is governed by subsection C.3. below; attraction boards
are considered an interchangeable element of the permitted :sign. N.
Additional sians - Resort Hotels. In addition to other signs allowable under this
section, a separate sign of up to thirty (30) square feet may be approved for a
restaurant within a hotel. The sign shall be located at the restaurant entry or
at the hotel entry if the restaurant does not have a separate entry and shall
complement the architecture of the building on which it is placed and/or the
immediate surroundings.
3. Vacancv Sians. Vacancy signs not exceeding five (5) square feet may be
permitted at the office entrance.
C. SPECIAL PROVISIONS
1 . Height. Except as otherwise regulated, the top of any sign shall not be higher
than the building on which it is located and in no event, except for resort
hotels, higher than twenty-eight (28) feet.
2. Free Standina Signs. Free standing signs for apartments, hotels, resort hotels
and residential mobilehome parks shall not be located on the public right-of-way
and shall not exceed twelve (12) feet in; height for resort hotels or eight (8) feet
in height for hotel and other uses. Only one (1) free-standing sign may be
allowed on a corner parcel.
3. Rate Sians. It shall be unlawful for any owner or operator of any apartment,
hotel or mobilehome park within the City to post or maintain posted on any
outdoor or outside advertising sign, pertaining to such establishment, any rates
for accommodations in such establishments unless the signs shall have posted
thereon the rates charged for all rooms or other rental units or accommodations
offered for rental, the numberof rooms or other rental units offered for rental
at each rate, and the number of persons accommodated at the rate posted. All
posted rates and descriptive. data allowed by this section shall be an integral
part of the principal sign and shall be in a type and material of the same size
and prominence as the other elements in the principal sign. Rate signs shall not
be posted on temporary signs or interchangeable elements of permitted signs.
No additional sign area will be granted for the specific purpose of the posting
of rates. This section shall not be held to be complied with by signs staffing the
rate per person or bearing the legend "and up"."
SECTION 2. Section 9320.08 through the remainder of Section 9320 of the Zoning
Ordinance is amended to read as follows:
"SECTION 9320.08 PERMITTED SIGNS - TEMPORARY
° Election Signs.
fJ' / a. Such signs shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area, except that
there shall be no size ;irnit for signs at campaign headquarters or those
C otherwise affixed to the'onterior of windows. The outdoor display of signs
which rotate, move, flash, reflect, blink or appear to do any of the
foregoing, and exceed nine (9) cubic feet in volume or measure more than
four (4) feet in any one direction, shall be prohibited; this includes, but is
not limited to, flags, banners, pennants, inflatable objects, and balloons.
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b. Such sings shall not be located in the public right-of-way or on any public
property, including trees or public utility poles, and shall be placed on
private property only with the consent of the property owner.
C. Such signs shall not be erected prior to thirty (30) days prior to the
election date to which the signs pertain. Such signs shall be removed
within five (5) days after the election date to which such signs pertain.
Construction Signs for Future Buildinas.
a. Projects that have been approved by Planning Commission but have not
been issued building permits, may erect one sign per street frontage
advertising their project subject to the following provisions. Signs
permitted by this section shall consist of no more than four (4) primary or
secondary colors; said colors shall not be fluorescent or reflectorized or of
other similar quality. Such signs may be double -sided and perpendicular
to the street.
(1) City Proiect/Redevelopment An_ enev Signs. Signs advertising City
projects or Redevelopment Agency projects with approved
participation agreements shall have a maximum square footage of 16
square feet for lots up to one acre in size and a maximum of 32
square feet for lots in excess of one acre.
(2) Private Proiect Signs. Signs advertising future buildings for private
projects shall be governed by the size or location of the property as
follows:
(a) for lots less than forty thousand (40,000) square feet in size, the
size of the sign shall not exceed six (6) square feet.
(b) for lots greater than forty thousand (40,000) square feet in size,
the size of the sign shall not exceed twelve (12) square feet.
(c) for lots located adjacent to Interstate 10, the size of the sign
shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
Said signs shall be in lieu of real estate signs otherwise permitted.
b. In -lieu of, but not in addition to any other sale, lease or exchange sign
permitted under this Ordinance, sign(s) advertising future buildings may be
erected only after a building permit has been issued and shall be subject
to the following provisions:
(1) The size of the sign shall not exceed a maximum of thirty-two (32)
square feet per street frontage, except for signs on single-family lots
which shall not exceed a maximum of sixteen (16) square feet.
(2) Signs(s) shall be located within subject property lines and may be
perpendicular to the street.
(3) All construction or lease potential signs shall be removed at the end
of one (1) year from the date of the certificate of occupancy, or
when ninety percent (90%) of the development is leased, whichever
occurs first.
,6. Identification Signs. A temporary identification sign may be permitted for a
period of up to thirty (30) days if an application for a permanent sign has been
submitted. An extension of time may be granted for an additional thirty (30)
days. The size of the sign shall be consistent with the limitations for permanent i
signs.
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,7 Sale Sians. While a sale of goods or services is being conducted, one (1) sale
sign is permitted per street frontage and must be displayed at least one (1) fooL
behind the glass line of the show window. Said sign shall not exceed five (5)
square feet. Sale signs shall not require a permit.
i
� 8� Grand Ooenina Sians. A grand opening sign shall be permitted for a new or
relocated business within the City. Such signs shall be permitted for thirty (30)
consecutive days and shall not exceed twenty (20) square feet in size. No '
other attention attraction devices shall be permitted. A permit for such signs
shall be required. A banner, or paper sign affixed to the inside of the window,
may be allowed for this purpose.
,9: Real Estate Auction Sians. In addition to other permitted signs, one (1) sign
advertising an auction of real estate property may be permitted on the subject
property. Said sign shall not exceed twenty (20) square feet and shall be
removed at the close of business on the day of the auction. Said sign shall not
be displayed prior to thirty (330) days before date of auction.
1,6. Residential Rental Sians. In addition to other permitted signs, one (1) sign
advertising the availability of any number of residential units for rent may be
permitted on the subject property. Said sign shall not exceed three (3) square
feet; it may be double-faced. Said sign shall be removed at any time rental
units are not available.
ti
SECTION 9320.081 PERMITTED SIGNS -COLIT CI AL )
r ti u
1 . Political signs in commercial and industrial zones shall be governed by the same
rules and regulations set forth in Section 9320.05 that govern commercial and
industrial signs, except that the rules and regulations of Section 9320.05 shall
not apply to the content of such political signs. The total amount of signage
at any particular property, including both political signs and other :signs, but not '
including election signs, shall not exceed the restrictions set forth in Section
9320.05,
2. Political signs in multi -family residential zones shall be governed by the sarne
rules and regulations set forth in Section 9320.06 that govern hotel, resort
hotel and apartment signs, except that the rules and regulations of Section
9320.06 shall not apply to the: content of such political signs. The total amount
of signage at any particular property, including both political signs and other
signs, but not including election signs, shall not exceed the restrictions set forth
in Section 9320.06.
3. Political signs in single-family residential zones shall not exceed three (3) square
feet in area. One such sign may be allowed.
4. Political signs shall not be placed in the public right-of-way or on any public
property, including trees and public utility poles, and shall be placed on private
property only with the consent of the property owner.
SECTION 9320.09 PERMITTED SIGNS - DOWN'TOWN/UPTOWN
The following regulations and guidelines shall apply in Redevelopment Project Areas 1 & 6 I
only. In the event of a conflict between these provisions and the remainder of the Sign
Ordinance, these provisions shall prevail.
The number and area of signs as outlined in this Section are intended to be maximum
standards and do not necessarily insure architectural compatibility. In addition to the
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enumerated standards, consideration shall be given to a sign's relationship to the overall
design of the subject property and its surroundings.
All signs allowed in this Section shall be allowed on each street frontage of a multiple -
frontage lot provided that the same use of the property extends from street to street.
Consolidation of sign areas permitted on each frontage to one sign is prohibited.
Sign programs shall be required for all buildings with more than one (1) tenant., Sign
programs shall complement the architecture of the building or complex. A sign program,
including other types of signs than those described herein, may be approved which varies
from the specific limitations of the Sign Ordinance if the Planning Commission finds that,
due to the physical characteristics of the property and the orientation and design of the
structures on the property, strict application of the regulations of the Sign Ordinance will
not give adequate visibility to the signage; that the approved signage will be compatible
with the design of the property and will represent the least departure from the standards
of the Ordinance necessary for the effectiveness of the signage; and that the approved
signage is compatible with the surrounding properties and not contrary to the purpose of
the Sign Ordinance.
A. MAIN SIGNS
1. Sians for Residential Uses - Section 9320.06 shall apply.
2. Sians for Commercial Uses. Each separate business shall be limited to one
(1) main sign from the following signage types (see following exhibit - "SIGN
TYPES"], However, all businesses within a single building or complex of
buildings shall use the same type.
a. Projecting signs:
I
1. Blade/Arcade Sians. The following requirements will apply
when blade or arcade signs are used:
a. The maximum volume allowed shall be sixteen (16)
cubic/square feet. The sign shall not exceed four (4)
feet in any one direction. The volume/dimensions used
to determine size shall not include the bracket or
suspension structure.
b. Acceptable materials include painted, polished and
patina metal; painted and stained wood; glass; and inlaid
stone.
C. The lowest point of any blade/arcade sign must be
seven (7) feet above any pedestrian walkway.
d. The bracket design shall be integrally planned and
detailed and shall be highly ornamental in nature.
Brackets shall be consistent throughout their use on any
particular building.
e. One (1) blade/arcade sign may be located at each
customer entrance. Each sign must be identical and the
combination of such signs shall be deemed as one (1)
sign for purposes of this section.
2. Awnina Sians. Signs can be applied to awnings according to
' the following criteria:
a. Letters shall be a maximum height of fouteen (14)
inches and located on the front face or any valance
element of the awning. The sign area shall not exceed
twenty percent (20%) of the total awning area with a .J�►
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maximum area equal to one: (1) square afoot per linear
foot of awning width.
b. A logo may be incorporated into the sign, with additional
sign area allowed, provided the total sign does not
exceed thirty percent (30%) of the total awning area
with a maximum of one and one-half (1 }12) square feet
per linear foot of awning width.
C. Letters and logos shall be sewn or silkscreened onto the ,
awnings in an approved contrasting color.
d. Each awning that is separated by a distance of at least
eight (8) inches may contain an identical sign except
that the size of the sign shall be determined by the
width of each separate awning. The combination of
such signs shall be deemed as one (1) sign for purposes
of this section.
b. Flush -mounted signs:
Sions on Glazinq. Lettering and logos may be applied directly
onto glazed areas according to the following requirements:
a. Signs on glazing shall be limited to the first floor of
buildings.
b. Letters are to be a maximum height of ten (10) inches.
C. The total area of the sign shall be no greater than forty
percent (40%) of the total glazed area upon which it is
applied or fifteen (15) square: feet, whichever is smaller.
d. Acceptable sign techniques are sandblasted or etched
glass, professionally -painted lettering, professionally -
and custom -fabricated and -applied vinyl, metal leaf and
stained glass. '
e. Each glazed area on either side of a customer entrance
may contain an identical sign. The combination of such
signs shall be deemed as one (1) sign for purposes of
this section.
2. Individual (Letters. 'The following criteria will apply when
individual letters are used:
a. Individual letters shall not exceed fouteen (14) inches in
height, with the first letter capitals allowed at a
maximum height of sixteen 1:16) inches.
b. Signs using individual letters shall not exceed in length
two-thirds (21s) the overall length of the storefront.
C. Signs shall not exceed a maximum area of one (1)
square foot per linear foot of building frontage with a
maximum area of fifty (50) square feet.
3. Exposed Neon. Exposed neon signs may only be used in
conjunction with food and entertainment uses; where used, the
following criteria shall be met:
a. Performance requirements - See Section 9320.09C.6.
b. Signs shall not exceed a maximum area of one (1) I
square foot per linear foot of building frontage with a
maximum area of fifty (50) square feet.
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4. Fascia Panel/Plaque Sians. The following requirements apply:
a. The length of the fascia panel/plaque shall be a
maximum of two-thirds Nb) the width of the overall
storefront.
b. The height of individual letters shall not exceed fourteen
(14) inches, with the first letter capitals a maximum of
sixteen (16) inches.
C. The fascia panel/plaque design and finish shall be
integrated with the storefront design.
d. Individual letters shall not exceed seven (7) inches in
depth from the face of the surface upon which they are
mounted.
e. Acceptable materials include cast stone, metal and
wood panels with individual metal and wood letters,
neon and custom ceramic tile.
f. Letters shall not be closer than six (6) inches from the
edge of the fascia panel/plaque.
g. The fascia panel shall not exceed a maximum area of
one (1) square foot per lineal foot of building frontage
with a maximum area of fifty (50) square feet.
3. Height. Except as otherwise regulated, the top of any sign shall not be higher
than the building on which it is located and in no event higher than twenty-
eight (28) feet.
B. ACCESSORY & CONVENIENCE SIGNS
1. Each separate business may select one type of accessory signage from the
following signage types [see following exhibit - "SIGN TYPES"], However,
all businesses within a single building or complex of buildings shall use the
same type.
a. Projecting signs:
Blade/Arcade Sians. The following requirements will apply
when blade or arcade signs are used:
a. The maximum volume allowed shall be nine (9)
cubic/square feet. The sign shall not exceed three (3)
feet in any one direction. The volume/dimensions used
to determine size shall not include the bracket or
suspension structure.
b. Acceptable materials include painted, polished and
patina metal; painted and stained wood; glass; and inlaid
stone.
C. The lowest point of any blade/arcade sign must be
seven (7) feet above any pedestrian walkway.
d. The bracket design shall be integrally planned and
detailed and shall be highly ornamental in nature.
Brackets shall be consistent throughout their use on any
particular building.
e. One (1) blade/arcade sign may be located at each
customer entrance where this type of sign is not also
located as a main sign. Each sign must be identical and
the combination of such signs shall be deemed as one
(1) sign for purposes of this section.
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2. Awninr- Umb a➢la Signs. The face of an awning or umbrella
which does not contain a main sign may contain an
accessory/convenience sign according to the following criteria:
a. Letters shall be a maximum height of four (4) inches and
located on the front face or any valance element of the
awning or umbrella. The sign area shall not exceed four
(4) square feet. ,
b. A logo may be incorporated into the sign, with additional
sign area allowed, provided the total sign does not
exceed six (6) square feet.
C. Letters and logos shall be sewn or silkscreened onto the
awnings or umbrellas in an approved contrasting color.
d. Each awning or umbrolla that is separated by a distance
of at least eight (8) inches may contain an identical sign.
The combination of such signs shall be deemed as one
(1) sign for purposes of this section.
e. Signs on umbrallas may contain only the name and logo
of the business to which they relate.
b. Flush -mounted suns.
1. Signs on G➢azino. Lettering and logos may be applied directly
onto glazed areas, which do not also contain a main sign,
according to the following requirements:
a. Signs on glazing shall be limited to the first floor of
buildings.
b. Letters are to be a maximum height of ten (10) inches.
C. The total area of the sign shall be no greater than six (6) '
square feet.
d. Acceptablo sign techniques are sandblasted or atched
glass, professionally -painted lettering, professionally -
and custom -fabricated and -applied vinyl, metal leaf and
stained glass.
a. Each glazed area on either side of a customer ontrance
may contain an identical sign. The combination of such
signs shall be deemed as one (1) sign for purposes of
this section.
2. Individiraluattns. The following criteria will apply when
individual letters are used:
a. Whore used as accessary/convenience signs, such signs
shall be livnited to the first floor of bulldings.
b. Individual letters shall not exceed twelve (12) inches in
height.
C. Signs shall not excaed a maximum area of sic (6) square
feet.
3. Fascia Panel Sons. The following requirements apply:
b. The height of the fascia panel shall not exceed sixteen '
0 6) inches.
C. The fascia panel design and - finish shall be integrated
with the storefront design.
d. Individual letters shall not exceed one (1) inch in depth
from the face of the surface upon which they are
mounted.
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zt .r y;.
Plaque Sign
Plaque Sign
Fascia Panel Sign
01538
Page 20
SIGN TYPES illustrating Section 9320.09 DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN
Proiectina Signs
Z
Blade Sic{n
Blade Sign
Awning Sign
Flush -Mounted Signs
09
Sign on Glazing
Arcade Sign
l _ Izz
MA
&Uy
-_T
Individual Letters
F
01538
Page 21
e. Acceptable materials include cast stone and wood
panels with individual metal and wood letters, neon and
custorn ceramic tile.
f. Letters shall not be closer than one and one-half (1 %2)
inches from the edge of the fascia panel.
g. Signs shall not exceed a maximum area of six (6) square
feet.
' 2. Pedestrian Directorv. Where the principal sign for a business, which is
located on a property fronting Palm Canyon Drive, is located so that it is not
visible from Palm Canyon Drive, a directory may be allowed which will
identify the business, or businesses, so affected. The directory must be
permanently mounted and may be attached to the building or may be free-
standing and shall not impede pedestrian movement. The directory may not
be larger than six (6) square feet per face, and signs for the individual
businesses shall be no larger than two (2) square feet per face.
3. Use of Attraction Boards by Night Clubs. Cabarets and Theaters. In addition
to the other sign usage authorized herein, businesses which offer
entertainment to the public shall be allowed one attraction board to advertise
such entertainment. The maximurn allowable size for an attraction board for
a night club or cabaret shall be twenty (20) square feet. The maximum
allowable size for an attraction board for a theater shall be twenty-five (25)
square feet. Multiple theaters may have multiple attraction. boards, if the
design is compatible with the overall design of the building and/or complex.
Showcases may be allowed in addition to an attraction board, if approved as
part of the overall design. The copy on the attraction board may be changed
at intervals of five (5) minutes or greater.
4. Customer Convenience Slans. Each individual business shall be permitted the
following signs on the entry door, on the building adjacent to the entry door,
or inside the glass window nearest to the entry.
a. Open/Closed Signs: One (1) square -foot sign per street entrance.
b. Service Signs: One (1) sign not more than two (2) square feet in size
shall be allowed.
C. Menu Boards: Menu boards, with a maximum display size of sir. (6)
square feet per face, may be allowed; such signs shall be
professionally designed and constructed. Such signs may not be
placed in the public right-of-way.
d. Hours/Days; Two-inch letter/number height per line.
e. Credit Cards/Service Decals: Credit card and other service decals may
be displayed in a contiguous one (1) square -foot area located behind
the glass line.
C. PROHIBITED SIGNS
1. Signs on Umbrellas & Shade Devices, except as provided by Subsection
' A.2.a.2. and B.1,a.2. above.
2. "Can" signs with an illuminated translucent background and silhouette letters.
3. Vacuum formed plastic lettering.
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4. Pre-cut, and pre -packaged, vinyl letters applied to glazing or other storefront
surfaces.
5. Signs prohibited by Section 9320.04 unless otherwise permitted by this
Section.
SECTION 9320,10 GENERAL PROVISIONS ,
The following general sign usage provisions and regulations shall apply. The additional sign
usage authorized hereunder shall Ibe strictly construed in its application.
A. PROCEDURES
1. ADDroval and Permits Required. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or
corporation to authorize, erect, construct, maintain, move, alter, change,
place, suspend, or attach any sign within the City without first obtaining the
necessary permits. Review and approval by the Planning Commission shall
be required for the design and location of signs in excess of fifty (50) square
feet. All other signs shall be approved by the Director of Planning & Building,
except that either the applicant or the Director of Planning & Building may
request review by the Planning Commission. Sign permit fees shall be
established by resolution of the City Council. A double permit fee shall be
assessed if the installation of e. sign is commenced before obtaining a permit.
Permits shall be required for the installation of all signs except real estate
signs of three (3) square feet or less, sale signs, customer convenience signs
(except menu boards), and political and election signs.
2. Soecial Permits. Nothing herein contained shall prevent the Director of
Planning and Building from granting a special permit for signs pertaining to
upcoming events of general public interest when it is shown that such signs I
will not be materially detrimental to the public: welfare nor injurious to
adjacent property owners.
3. Appeal. Any person aggrieved by a decision to issue, issue with conditions
or not issue a sign permit by the Director of Planning & Building shall be
advised that said application may be placed on the Planning Commission
agenda for re -consideration. The decision of the Planning Commission may
be further appealed to the City Council pursuant to Chapter 2.05 of the Palm
Springs Municipal Code.
4. Variances. The provisions of Section 9406.00 of the Zoning Ordinance shall
apply. In addition to the findings required therein, the Planning Commission
may grant a sign variance based on the findings that due to the physical
characteristics of the property and the orientation and design of the
structures on the property, strict application of the regulations of the Sign
Ordinance will not give adequate visibility to the signage; that the approved
signage will be compatible with the design of the property and will represent
the least departure from the standards of the Ordinance necessary for the
effectiveness of the signage; and that the approved signage is compatible
with the surrounding property and not contrary to the purpose of the Sign
Ordinance.
B. SAFETY '
1. Signs for Public Safetv and Convenience. When deemed necessary, the
Director of Planning & Building may authorize and approve signs not to
exceed five (5) square feet per face to serve the public safety or convenience,
such as "Entrance" signs, "Exit" signs, and "Parking" signs.
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2. Prooer Maintenance of Sians. The user, owner or lessee of a sign authorized
hereunder shall maintain it as approved in a safe, neat, attractive, first-class
condition and in good repair.
3. Obstruction of Passaae. Signs shall not be constructed so as to obstruct any
door, window, or fire escape of any building.
' 4. "No Trespassing" Signs. A "No Trespassing" or "No Dumping" sign not
exceeding three (3) square feet shall be authorized for each parcel of property
in addition to other authorized signs and shall be designed and located
thereon in a manner satisfactory to the Director of Planning & Building.
5. Glare from Sians. Illuminated signs shall be designed tin such a manner as
to avoid undue glare or reflectionof light onto private property in the
surrounding area or right-of-way and shall be erected and located in a manner
as approved by the Director of Planning & Building. The intensity of lighting
of a sign may be reviewed in the field by the Director of Planning & Building
who may require the reduction of intensity.
6. Location of Right -Angle Sians. Right-angle signs shall be seven (7) feet or
higher above the sidewalk or the right-of-way. Right-angle signs supported
by posts or standards shall not extend beyond the property line or into the
public right-of-way.
7. Street Address Numbers/Letters. A street address is required and shall
conform to the requirements of Chapter 14.04.100 of the Palm Springs
Municipal Code. When address or other numbers are used as an identification
name, they shall conform to all applicable provisions of this Section. Street
address numbers in excess of eight (8) inches in height shall be considered
a sign.
' 8. Exceptions. Nothing herein contained shall prevent the erection, construction
or maintenance of official traffic, fire and police signs, signals, devices and
markings of the California Transportation Department, the City Council or of
other competent public authorities, or the posting of the notices required by
law.
C. OTHER
1. Sians for Public and Quasi -Public Uses. Directional and public convenience
signs for public and quasi -public uses may be permitted on public property.
The design must conform to standard directional sign specifications
promulgated by the Director of Planning & Building and approved by the
Planning Commission. The total number of signs allowed shall be based on
the minimum number necessary for adequate public identification as
determined by the Director of Planning & Building.
2. Color of Sians. All signs regulated by this Section shall contain no more than
four (4) colors. Black and white shall be considered as colors. Logos, in
which text does not comprise an area greater than 75%, may contain no
more than six (6) colors such that the total number of colors of the sign of
which the logo is a part shall not exceed six (6).
3. Sians on Awninas, etc. Painted, non-illurninated or indirectly lighted signs
may be permitted on the borders of marquees, canopies, awnings, umbrellas
or similar structures or attachments if located and erected in a manner
satisfactory to the Director of Planning & Building. Such signs shall be
included in the total authorized sign area.
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4. Sians on Vehicles. No person shall drive, operate, move in or along, or park
on any street or on public or private property, any truck, trailer, carriage,
wagon, sled or other vehicle on which is attached or maintained any sign
displaying any commercial or non-commercial advertising matter for the sole
or primary purpose of displaying said advertising matter, which is declared to
be a nuisance and a violation of this Section, except for the following:
a. The driving, operation and movement of vehicles displaying political '
campaign advertisements for candidates for public office and ballot
measures, provided the same is not otherwise prohibited by this
Section.
b. The identification of a business enterprise upon a vehicle used
primarily for the purpose of and in the usual business of the owner for
transporting or servicing goods or persons for commercial or other
business purposes, provided that the identification is painted on or
otherwise affixed so as not to project from the unusual profile of the
vehicle.
C. The incidental display of non-commercial stickers, plates, license plate
brackets, and the like; or of customary small identifications on license
plat brackets or elsewhere, of vehicle manufacturers, models or types
of vehicles, or dealers or entities from whom vehicles bearing the
same were purchased or otherwise obtained.
d. A single isolated movement of a sign or sign equipment or materials
from one place to another within the city.
e. Vehicles located on construction sites that are directly involved with
ongoing construction. The parking of any such vehicle on any street
or on public or private property, or the movement of any such vehicle '
in and along any street for the sole or primary purpose of displaying
advertising matter i& declared to be a nuisance and a violation of this
Section.
5. Multiole Frontaae Lots. All sign areas allowed in this Section shall be allowed
on each street frontage of a multiple frontage lot provided that the same use
of the property extends through from street to street. Consolidation of sign
areas permitted on each frontage to one sign is prohibited. Total sign areas
as established elsewhere in this Section shall supersede this itern.
6. Exposed -Tube Neon, Fibre Optics & other Hiah-Intensitv Sians. The design
and placement of neon, fibre optic and other high -intensity signs shall be
subject to the following provisions:
a. The use of such signs shall be limited to main signs and customer
convenience signs. Prefabricated signs are prohibited except for
customer signs; customer convenience signs shall be limited to a
single color.
b. Neon, fibre optics and other high -intensity signs which exhibit glare
and high contrast with their surroundings are discouraged. Additional
lighting may be required to adjust the ambient light background of the
proposal. '
C. The number, locations and overall impact of pre-existing neon, fibre
optics and other high -intensity signs shall be considered in judging the
appropriateness of proposed signs.
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d. All tubing, conduit, transformers, and other paraphernalia not part of
the actual sign face shall be concealed from view.
e. All neon, fibre optic and other high -intensity signs shall be installed
with solid state transformer dimmers. The intensity level of all such
signs shall be reviewed in place and adjusted to appear at a level
consistent with other lighted signs in the vicinity.
SECTION 9320.11 ABATEMENT
A. Compliance With Section: Nuisance: Abatement. The City Council hereby
determines that the public peace, safety, morals, health, and welfare, require that
all signs and advertising structures heretofore constructed or.erected in violation of
any ordinance of the City of Palm Springs in effect at the time such sign was
constructed or erected, be and are hereby made subject to the provisions of this
Section. Such signs shall be made to conform and comply with the Sign Ordinance
as soon as reasonably possible after the effective date of the Sign Ordinance. All
signs and advertising structures which are not made to conform and comply within
a reasonable time shall be and are hereby declared to be public nuisances and may
be abated in the manner provided.
B. Removal and Amortization Schedule. Any sign which is non -conforming to the
requirements of the Sign Ordinance, either by variance previously granted or by
conformance to the existing sign regulations at the time the initial permit for said
sign was issued, shall either be removed or brought up to Code requirements within
the period of time prescribed herein dating from the effective date of the Sign
Ordinance. Such non -conforming signs may be abated forthwith upon the payment
of the cost of removal and the remaining value of said sign, as determined from the
valuation stated on the permit and based upon a depreciation schedule for such sign
as follows:
AMORTIZATION SCHEDULE
PERMIT VALUE OF SIGN
SCHEDULE
$10.00 or less
Immediately
$10.01 to $100.00
1 Year
$100.01 to $500.00
2 Years
$500.01 to $750.00
3 Years
$750.01 to $1,000.00
4 Years
$1,000.01 to $ 2, 500.00
5 Years
$2,500.01 to $5,000.00
7 Years
Over $5,000.00
10 Years
AMORTIZATION
C. Notification. Any owner of a sign that is illegal, abandoned, not maintained in
good condition, or is not in compliance with the requirements of this Chapter shall
be notified by the Director of Planning & Building. Such notification must be by
registered or certified mail and list the specific areas of non-compliance.
D. Sians in the Public Rioht-of-Way. Any sign placed on any public right-of-way,
and not otherwise permitted by this Section or other approval by the Planning
Commission or City Council, shall be deemed to be a public nuisance that posesan immediate danger to the health, safety and welfare of the community by��;
creating an obstruction to circulation, including, but not limited to, vehicular and j
pedestrian. In the event that a sign is left on any public right-of-way, the owner
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of the sign shall be responsible and liable for the removal and disposition of the
sign left on the public right-of-way.
1. Abatement. Upon discovering the existence of a sign left on the public right-
of-way, the Director of Planning & Building shall have the authority to order
the immediate abatement and removal thereof. The Director shall notify the
owner thereof, or the owner's representative, in person or by mailing an
abatement notice to the owner's last known address. Such notice shall
state the time limit, if any, granted for removal of the sign and the statement
that the Director shall remove the sign after the stated time, the procedure
for retrieving a removed sign, and a statement that the owner may request a
hearing to appeal the abatement and removal by submitting a written
request.
2. Hearings.
a. Any sign removed and stored pursuant to these provisions shall be
released to the owner thereof if claimed within thirty (30) days after
such removal and upon the payment of reasonable administrative fees.
Such administrative fees shall be waived if, after a hearing to appeal
has been requested, a determination is made at such hearing that the
fees shall be waived. The administrative fees for the removal and
storage of the sign shall be established or modified by resolution of the
City Council and shall include the actual cost of removal and storage of
any sign plus the proportional share of administrative costs in
connection therewith.
b. Any hearing to appeal an abatement order which is requested shall be
conducted within five working days of the receipt of the request by the
City Manager, who should be designated as the hearing officer; the City
Manager may appoint a designee to act as hearing officer. The failure '
of either the owner or his agent to request a hearing shall waive the
right to a hearing. At the hearing, the hearing officer shall determine
whether good cause was shown For the abatement and removal of the
sign. The decision of the hearing officer shall be deemed the final
administrative determination. If good cause is shown for thie abatement
and removal of the sign, the owner or his agent shall have 15 days from
the date of the hearing to retrieve his sign upon payment of the
administrative fee. If good cause is not shown for the abatement and
removal of the sign, the administrative fee shall be waived and the
owner or his agent shall have 15 days to retrieve his sign.
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C. Disoosition. Any sign not retrieved by its owner within thirty (30) days
after delivering or mailing the abatement notice when such owner has
not requested a hearing to appeal, or within thirty (30) days of storage
of the sign by the City in all other cases, shall be deemed to be
permanently abandoned and may be disposed of by the City."
SECTION 3. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty
(30) days after passage.
SECTION 4. PUBLICATION. The City Clerk is hereby ordered and directed to certify to
the passage of this Ordinance, and to cause the same or a summary thereof or a display
advertisement, duly prepared according to law, to be published in accordance with law.
ADOPTED this 2nd day of October 1996.
AYES: Members Barnes, Hodges, Oden, Spurgin and Mayor Kleindienst
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ATTEST:
By
`City Clerk
REVIEWED & APPROVED AS TO FORM
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
NN (MMayor
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Ordinance 1538 was duly adopted by
the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, in a meeting
held on the 2nd day of October, 1996, and that same was published in the
DESERT SUN, a newspaper of general circulation on September 23 and October
6, 1996.
v
rUDITH SUMICH
City Clerk
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