Ord 739ORDINANCE NO. 739
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF POWAY, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING CHAPTER 17.40 OF TITLE 17 (ZONING)
OF THE POWAY MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO SIGNS
(ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 12 -02)
WHEREAS, it is necessary from time to time to amend the Poway Municipal Code (PMC)
to reflect changing conditions in the community; and
WHEREAS, Chapter 17.40 of Title 17 of the PMC contains the City -wide sign regulations;
which were last comprehensively updated under Ordinance 427 on November 9, 1993; and
WHEREAS, a Community Workshop was conducted on July 20, 2011, and City Council
Workshops were conducted on March 15, 2011, and December 6, 2011, to take public input and
discuss the regulations and potential changes; and
WHEREAS, substantive amendments are proposed to Chapter 17.40 pertaining to
temporary signs, permanent wall- mounted and freestanding signs, directional and conveniences
signs, Comprehensive Sign Programs, election and other non - commercial message signs, and
community special event signs; and
WHEREAS, non - substantive amendments are also proposed to Chapter 17.40 to eliminate
inconsistencies and redundancy, and to clarify the regulations; and
WHEREAS, on February 21, 2012, and March 6, 2012, the City Council held a duly
advertised public hearing to solicit comments from the public, both pro and con, relative to this
Ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF POWAY DOES ORDAIN AS
FOLLOWS:
Section 1: The City Council finds that the adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from the
provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the
CEQA Guidelines because it pertains to minor modifications to the sign regulations in the Zoning
Ordinance and that there is no possibility this will have a significant effect on the environment.
Section 2: Chapter 17.40, entitled Comprehensive Sign Regulations, of Title 17 of the Poway
Municipal Code is amended to read as follows:
Article I. General Provisions
17.40.010 Purpose.
Article II. Definitions
17.40.015 Definitions.
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Page 2
Article III Permit Requirements and Review Procedures
17.40.020 Major review — Minor review — Building Permits required.
17.40.030 Method of application.
17.40.040 Method of review.
Article IV Administration
17.40.050 Enforcement — Referral — Rehearing.
17.40.060 Interpretation of provisions.
17.40.070 Variance.
Article V. General Requirements
17.40.090 Exempt signs.
17.40.100 Prohibited signs.
17.40.110 Signs relating to inoperative activities.
17.40.120 Enforcement, legal procedures and penalties.
17.40.130 Construction and maintenance.
Article VI Sign Regulations
17.40.140 Sign permits.
17.40.150 Signs permitted in all zoning districts.
17.40.170 Directional kiosks.
17.40.180 Comprehensive Sign Program for commercial and industrial zones.
17.40.190 Temporary signs.
17.40.200 Onsite subdivision signs.
17.40.210 Real estate kiosks.
17.40.220 Signs permitted in single - family residential zones.
17.40.230 Signs permitted in the multifamily and mobile home park zones.
17.40.240 Signs permitted in commercial zones.
17.40.250 Repealed.
Article VII. Design Standards
17.40.260 Design standards designated.
Article VIII. Nonconforming Signs
17.40.270 Intent.
17.40.280 General requirements.
17.40.290 Amortization requirements.
17.40.300 Historical signs.
17.40.310 Severability.
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Article I. General Provisions
17.40.010 Purpose.
A. The provisions of this Chapter shall be known as the comprehensive sign regulations. It is
the purpose of these provisions to establish a comprehensive system for the regulation of
onsite and offsite signs.
B. The City recognizes the need for signs as a means to identify businesses within the
community. However, the City also recognizes that signing is an important design element
of the physical environment. Regulations consistent with the goals and objectives of the
community are necessary to ensure that the rural character and image the community is
striving for can be attained.
C. It is the purpose of this Chapter to make the City attractive to residents, visitors and
commercial, industrial and professional businesses while maintaining economic stability
through an attractive signing program. Specifically, the purposes of this Chapter are to:
1. Protect the general public health, safety and welfare of the community;
2. Reduce possible traffic and safety hazards through good signing;
3. Direct persons to various activities and uses, in order to provide for maximum public
convenience;
4. Provide a reasonable system of sign regulations, to ensure the development of a
high - quality visual environment;
5. Encourage signs which are well designed and pleasing in appearance and to
provide incentive and latitude for variety, good design relationship to the business or
use it identifies, and spacing between signs and buildings;
6. Encourage a desirable rural character which has a minimum of clutter;
7. Enhance the economic value of the community and each area, business and use
thereof, through the regulation of such elements as size, number, location, design
and illumination of signs; and
8. Encourage signs which are well located, and take into account the service and
usage of adjacent areas.
D. By the adoption of the ordinance codified in this Chapter, the City recognizes its legal and
constitutional obligations to allow noncommercial signage wherever commercial signage is
permitted, not to discriminate among noncommercial messages, and not to discriminate
among commercial messages, except for the distinction between - onsite and offsite signs.
E. Traffic control signs and kiosk signage located upon the public right -of -way or other public
property and erected at public expense are intended to control traffic movement and to
direct the public to an area of the City; to the availability and location of a public or
semipublic facility or event; or to the sale of real estate in a manner which enhances the
safe and orderly flow of traffic along and upon primary and secondary thoroughfares
instead of narrower or more congested streets. The City Council finds that kiosk signs
serve the same compelling interest as traffic control signs in that such signs reduce traffic
congestion and are indispensable to the safe vehicular use of City streets. (Ord. 525 § 2,
2000; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.0), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A),
1983)
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Page 4
Article II. Definitions
17.40.015 Definitions.
As used in this Chapter:
"Advertising structure" means an on -site or off -site structure of any kind or character other than
the main business identification sign, erected or maintained for outdoor advertising purposes,
upon which any poster, bill, printing, painting, or other advertisement of any kind whatsoever may
be placed, including statuary for advertising purposes.
"Animated sign" means any sign that uses movement or change of lighting, either natural or
artificial, to depict action or create a special effect or scene.
"Area identification sign" means a sign to identify an area of the City such as a residential
neighborhood or a business park, located at the entrance or entrances to the area, and consisting
of a fence or wall with letters or symbols affixed thereto.
"Area of the sign" means the net geometric area enclosed by an imaginary rectangle drawn
around the display surface of the sign, including the outer extremities of all letters, characters and
delineations. In cases where a sign is on a background, which is not illuminated and is integral to
the building design and /or building color scheme, the background is not included in the "area of
the sign." In cases where multiple wall signs are located on a single building face and /or frontage
and separated by a distance of 3 feet or greater, the "area of the sign" shall be the sum total of
each sign calculated individually by the foregoing method. In cases where multiple signs are
located on a single building face and /or frontage and less than 3 feet to another sign, the "area of
the sign" shall be the area enclosed by an imaginary rectangle around the signs together. In the
case of a two -sided freestanding sign, the "area of the sign" shall be the area of one side.
"Banner" means any sign of lightweight fabric or similar material intended to advertise goods,
services and /or a business, whether it contains copy or does not contain copy. National flags,
State or municipal flags, or the official flag of any institution or business shall not be considered
banners.
"Billboard" means an off -site sign of any kind erected or maintained for outdoor advertising
purposes, upon which any poster, bill, printing, or other advertisement of any kind whatsoever is
placed.
"Building face and /or frontage" means the portion of the building elevation which faces a street or
parking lot, excluding driveways and aisles.
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"Building wall area" means the geometric area of a building wall, along each building face/frontage
as defined in this Chapter, which is used to determine maximum allowable sign area. The area is
the height of the wall multiplied by the length of the wall on which the sign will be displayed. In
determining the maximum allowable sign area for a tenant within a multi- tenant building and in
cases where a tenant is displaying their sign on a wall that is contiguous to their tenant space, the
building wall area is the height of the wall multiplied by the length of the wall for that tenant space.
In cases where a tenant is displaying their sign on a wall that is not contiguous to their tenant
space, the building wall area where the sign is to be displayed shall be used in determining
maximum sign area. In this case, if the wall displays other tenant signs, the sum of all signs shall
not exceed the maximum allowable sign area for the building wall.
"Business directory sign" means a sign located in a multi- tenant complex which lists each
business and addresses and /or suite numbers, which may also have a site map for orientation.
"Canopy sign" means any sign that is a part of or attached to an awning, canopy or other fabric,
plastic or structural protective cover over a door, entrance, window or outdoor service area. A
marquee is not a canopy. Canopy signs shall be regulated as wall signs.
"Change of sign face" is when an existing sign is altered by a change of message or design on the
sign face, without any change to the size or shape of the sign framework or structure of a
manufactured sign or without any change to the size of a sign painted on a wall.
"Changeable copy /electronic reader board" means a sign or portion thereof with characters, letters
or illustrations that can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the
sign. A sign on which the message changes more than eight times per day shall be considered
an animated sign and not a changeable copy sign for purposes of this Chapter. A sign on which
the only copy that changes is an electronic or mechanical indication of time or temperature shall
be considered a "time and temperature" portion of a sign and not a changeable copy sign for
purposes of this Chapter.
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Page 6
"Commercial message" means any sign wording, logo or other representation that, directly or
indirectly, names, advertises or calls attention to a business, product, service, sale or sales event,
or other commercial activity.
"Community Special Event" means an event with broad community interest and /or an event
sponsored by a government agency, school, or non - profit organization, as determined by the
Director of Development Services.
"Comprehensive Sign Program" means a set of specific design standards for signs in a shopping
or office center intended to integrate signs with each other, the architectural design of the building
(or buildings) on the site, and landscaping to achieve an overall high quality and attractive
appearance.
"Convenience Sign" means any onsite sign intended to provide information of a non - commercial
nature to users of the site where the sign is located. Such signs shall be designed to be viewed
from onsite, and necessary for public convenience or safety. Such signs shall not include
commercial messages.
"Copy" means any words, letters, numbers, figures, designs, or other symbolic representations
incorporated into a sign.
"Curbline" means the line at the face of the curb nearest to the street or roadway. In the absence
of a curb, the curbline shall be established by the City Engineer.
"Directional Sign" means an onsite sign intended to provide directions with words, symbols or
characters to users of the site where the sign is located. Such signs shall not include commercial
messages, except that a drive - through business may display their business name and /or logo as
provided for in this Chapter.
"Election sign" means a sign erected prior to an election to advertise or identify a candidate,
campaign issue, election proposition, or other related ballot matters.
"Erect" means to build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend or affix, and shall also include the
painting of wall signs.
"Flag" means any fabric, banner or bunting containing distinctive colors, patterns or symbols, used
as a symbol of a government, political subdivision or other entity.
"Flag banner" means a tall, narrow, vertically oriented banner mounted on poles, with or without
copy, used to advertise goods, services, and /or a business.
"Flashing sign" means an illuminated sign on which artificial or reflected light is not maintained
stationary and constant in intensity and color at all times when in use.
"Freestanding sign" means a sign which is attached to or a part of a completely self- supporting
structure. The supporting structure shall be set firmly in or below the ground surface and shall not
be attached to any building or other structure whether portable or stationary.
"Grand opening" means the first time opening of a new business or the reopening after a major
remodel which required closing the business for at least 30 days.
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"Height of a sign" means the greatest vertical distance measured from the grade at which the sign
supports intersect the ground, including any accompanying architectural features of the sign. In
cases where the location of the sign support intersection with the ground is lower than the
elevation of an adjacent street and sidewalk from which the sign is primarily viewed, the height of
the sign shall be measured from the elevation of the adjacent sidewalk.
"Logo" means a trademark or symbol used to identify a business.
"Mansard roof" means any roof that has an angle greater than 45 degrees and which derives part
of its support from the building wall and is attached to (but not necessarily a part of) a low -slope
roof, and which extends along the full length of the front building wall or three - quarters of the
length of a side building wall. For purposes of this Chapter, a low -slope roof shall mean any roof
with a pitch less than three inches rise per 12 inches horizontal.
"Menu board" means an outdoor sign, associated with restaurants with drive - through windows,
which gives a detailed list of foods served that are available at a restaurant.
"Noncommercial message" means a message pertaining to a topic of public concern, controversy, or
interest, including, but not limited to, politics, religion, philosophy, science, art or social commentary.
"Offsite sign" means a sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service,
entertainment or attraction sold, offered or existing elsewhere than upon the same lot where such
sign is displayed. The term "offsite sign" shall include an outdoor advertising sign (billboard) on
which space is leased or rented by the owner thereof to others for the purposes of conveying a
commercial or noncommercial message.
" Onsite sign" means a sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service,
entertainment or attraction sold, offered or existing on the same lot where such sign is displayed;
provided, an onsite sign may also display a noncommercial message.
"Pennant" means any lightweight plastic, fabric or other material, whether or not containing a
message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wire or string, usually in series, designed to move in
the wind.
"Portable sign" means any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent
structure, or a sign designed to be transported, including, but not limited to, signs designed to be
transported by means of wheels; signs converted to A- or T- frames; "sandwich board" signs;
balloons used as signs; umbrellas used for advertising; and signs attached to or painted on
vehicles.
"Promotional Sales" shall mean a temporary sales event to promote products, merchandise, or
services available on the same premises, including parking lot sales, sidewalk sales, and leasing
events, as determined by the Director of Development Services.
"Real estate sign" means a temporary sign placed upon property for the purpose of advertising to
the public the sale or lease of said property.
"Roof sign" means any sign erected upon, against or directly above a roof or roof eave, or on top
or above the parapet, or on a functional architectural appendage above the roof or roof eave.
Ordinance No. 739
Page 8
"Shopping or office center" means two or more retail stores, offices and /or service establishments,
or combination thereof which results in more than two such establishments sharing customer
parking areas, regardless of whether said stores, offices and /or service establishments occupy
separate structures or are under separate ownerships.
"Sign" means and includes every device, frame, letter, figure, character, mark, plane, point,
design, picture, logo, stroke, stripe, trademark or reading matter, which is used or intended to be
used to attract attention or convey information when the same is placed out of doors in view of the
general public, or, the above, when displayed near the inside surface of a window in such a way
as to be in view of the general public and used or intended to be used to attract attention or
convey information to motorists.
"Temporary signs" means a sign erected for a temporary purpose attracting attention to an
activity as provided for within this Chapter.
"Wall sign" means any sign that shall be affixed parallel to the wall or printed on the wall of any
building in such a manner as to read parallel to the wall on which it is mounted; provided,
however, said wall sign shall not project above the top of the wall or beyond the end of the
building. For the purpose of this Chapter, any sign display surface that is affixed parallel to a wall
but in or against the sloping surface of a mansard roof shall be considered a wall sign. Any sign
that is affixed to a building awning or a building canopy shall be considered a wall sign.
"Window sign" means any sign, picture, symbol or combination thereof, designed to communicate
information about an activity, business, commodity, event, sale or service, that is placed inside a
window or upon a window. (Ord. 443, 1995; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993)
Article III. Permit Requirements and Review Procedures
17.40.020 Major review — Minor review — Building Permits required.
A. Major review shall be required for all new freestanding signs greater than eight feet in
height. Signs requiring major review shall comply with the provisions of this Chapter and
all other applicable laws and ordinances. Building Permits may be required.
B. Minor review shall be required prior to the placing, erecting, moving, repair or
reconstructing of any sign in the City not subject to Subsection A of this section, including
new Comprehensive Sign Programs and amendments thereof, unless expressly exempted
by this Chapter. Signs requiring minor review shall comply with the provisions of this
Chapter and all other applicable laws and ordinances. Building Permits may be required.
(Ord. 722 § 3, 2011; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.1(A)), 3, 1983; Ord.
82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Ordinance No. 739
Page 9
17.40.030 Method of application.
An application for major review or minor review and Building Permits shall be made on forms as
prescribed by the Director of Development Services. Such an application shall be filed with the
Development Services Department with applicable plans as required. Said application shall be
accompanied by any fees or bonds as specified by City Council resolution. (Ord. 722 § 3, 2011;
Ord. 518, 1999; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 1), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A),
1983)
17.40.040 Method of review.
The purpose of major review and minor review is to help ensure compliance with the provisions of
this Chapter.
A. Major Review. Within 15 working days after receipt of all required materials of a sign
application, the Director of Development Services, or a designated representative, shall
prepare and place on the agenda of the City Council for consideration within 18 days a
report to the City Council recommending approval, approval with modifications, or denial of
such sign application. Consideration by the City Council shall be delayed only with the
consent of the applicant. Authority to approve or deny a major review shall rest with the
City Council. The standards of review shall be the requirements set forth in this Chapter
and the applicable building code.
B. Minor Review. Within 15 calendar days after receipt of all required materials of a sign
application, or 45 calendar days for a Comprehensive Sign Program, the Director of
Development Services, or a designated representative, shall render a decision to approve,
approve with modifications, or deny such sign request. Review shall ensure that any sign
proposal is in conformance with this Chapter, is consistent with its title and purpose, and
conforms to the applicable building code requirements. In cases where the placing,
erecting, moving, or reconstructing of a sign does not require the issuance of a Building
Permit, the Director of Development Services, or a designated representative, shall render
a decision to approve, approve with modifications, or deny such sign request (not including
Comprehensive Sign Programs) within 10 working days. For Sign Permits that meet all the
requirements of an approved Comprehensive Sign Program, the permit shall be issued
within five full working days from the date of complete application. Notice of pending
decision on a new Comprehensive Sign Program or an amendment to an existing
Comprehensive Sign Program shall be provided 10 days prior to the decision by mail to all
property owners of property contiguous to the subject property, and those separated by a
public or private street, and by posting a notice at each entrance to the subject property.
The decision of the Director may be appealed to the City Council pursuant to Chapter 2.20
PMC, Administrative Appeals. (Ord. 722 § 3, 2011; Ord. 525 § 3, 2000; Ord. 518, 1999;
Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.1(C)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A, 1983)
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Page 10
Article IV. Administration
17.40.050 Enforcement — Referral — Rehearing.
A. It shall be the responsibility of the Director of Development Services or a designated
representative to enforce all provisions of this Chapter. At the discretion of the Director,
any sign request may be referred to the City Council for its review and approval.
B. In cases where a request for a permit has been referred to the City Council for decision, its
action is final and effective within 10 calendar days unless a request for a rehearing is filed
in accordance with Chapter 2.21 PMC.
C. Any interested party may appeal the decision of the Director of Development Services
according to procedures set out in Chapter 2.20 PMC. (Ord. 518, 1999; Ord. 492 § 6,
1998; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.2(A)), 3,1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh.
A), 1983)
17.40.060 Interpretation of provisions.
A. The provisions of this Chapter are not intended to abrogate any easements, covenants or
other existing agreements which are more restrictive than the provisions of this Chapter.
B. Whenever the application of this Chapter is uncertain due to ambiguity of its provisions, the
question shall be referred to the City Council for determination. The City Council shall
establish an interpretation that best fulfills the intent of this Chapter. (Ord. 427 (Exh. A),
1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.2(B)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.070 Variance.
Applications for a variance from the terms of this Chapter shall be reviewed by the
City Council according to the variance procedures as set forth in the zoning ordinance. Variances
may be granted only for sign location and other similar performance standards, except area and
height, when the City Council finds that the granting of such a variance will not be contrary to the
title and purpose of this Chapter, in addition to the other required findings for granting a variance.
All variances may be conditioned to expire with the change of copy for the use, be reviewed on a
periodic basis or be required to conform to this Chapter upon change of ownership, and /or shall
automatically expire upon any designated period of time. (Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1
(Exh. A 7.2(C)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Article V. General Requirements
17.40.090 Exempt signs.
The following signs shall be exempt from the application, permit and fee requirements of this
Chapter; an electrical and /or Building Permit may be required. Any signage in excess of the
specific exemptions listed in this section is prohibited.
A. Permanent window signage not exceeding 12 square feet per business frontage and
limited to the name of the business, service or use, hours of operation, address and
emergency information, except exposed neon tubing signs advertising products for sale on
the premises;
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C
A
Temporary advertising signage painted on the window or constructed of paper, cloth or
similar expendable material affixed on the window, wall or building surface; provided, that
the total area of such signs shall not exceed 25 percent of the window area; however, in all
cases a minimum of 12 square feet per business frontage is permitted;
Real estate signs for single and multi - family residential sales and leasing. For single - family
signs, one sign per street frontage not exceeding four square feet in area and five feet in
height, provided it is unlit and is removed within 15 days after the close of escrow or the
rental or lease has been accomplished. Signs placed on the rear street frontage are
prohibited. Open house signs not exceeding four square feet in area and five feet in height
are permitted for directing prospective buyers to property offered for sale. For multi - family
signs, one per street frontage not exceeding 24 square feet and 6 feet in height;
Temporary signs for elections and non - commercial messages shall be permitted on private
property and in the public street rights -of -way behind the curb as hereinafter provided.
1. Such signs shall not exceed 24 square feet in total area for one side; double -faced
signs shall not exceed 24 square feet per side.
2. Such signs shall not exceed an overall height of eight feet from the finished grade
immediately around the sign.
3. No such signs shall be lighted either directly or indirectly unless said sign is erected,
painted or constructed on an authorized structure already providing illumination.
4. No such sign shall be placed or affixed to a traffic signal, fire hydrant, street light,
tree, publicly owned or maintained wall /fence, or utility pole. No such sign shall be
placed upon any sidewalk or overhang any sidewalk or be placed in any raised
planter or tree well. No such signs shall be placed in a manner which, in the
professional judgment of the City Traffic Engineer or designee, impedes or renders
dangerous access to any public improvement or obstructs the visibility of any sign
designed to regulate, control or assist public or private transportation, or obstructs
the vision of any pedestrian or vehicular user of a public street right -of -way. No
such signs shall be placed in any median or any traffic island in the public street
right -of -way; in or upon any public building; or within, upon, or in the public right -of-
way abutting any public park, square, public landscaped area or other publicly -
owned property.
5. The number of such signs is not limited.
6. Such signs may carry any noncommercial message, including, but not limited to
political messages.
7. No such signs shall be posted in violation of any provision of this Chapter. The
Director of Development Services or a designated representative shall have the
right to remove any sign placed in the right -of -way or on public property, contrary to
any provision of this section. Removed signs shall be stored by the City. Notice of
removal shall be promptly provided to the owner of such sign or the apparent owner
or candidate, within one working day of removal whenever possible. Such person
shall have the right to recover the sign forthwith, without charge. All signs removed
by the City may be destroyed 30 calendar days following removal.
8. Election signs shall be removed no later than 10 calendar days following the date of
the election. Election signs not removed after 10 calendar days following the date
of the election may be removed by the Director of Development Services or a
designated representative. All signs removed by the City shall be stored by the City
and whenever possible the owner, apparent owner, or candidate shall be notified of
the date upon which such signs shall be destroyed or discarded. Such person shall
have the right to recover the sign forthwith, without charge. All signs removed by
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the City may be destroyed 30 calendar days following removal. In no event shall the
City be liable in damages for destruction or discard of such signs;
E. Contractor or Construction Signs. For residential projects greater than four dwelling units,
commercial, and industrial projects, two onsite signs shall be permitted on the construction
site for all contractors (may include financial institutions, real estate agents, subcontractors,
etc.) not exceeding 32 square feet each, unless legally required by government contracts to
be larger. No sign shall exceed eight feet in overall height and shall be located no closer
than 10 feet to any property line. Such sign shall be removed upon the granting of
occupancy by the City. For all other projects, a total of two signs per development site may
be installed with a maximum of four square feet in area and five feet in height for each
sign. Such sign(s) shall be removed upon finalization of Building Permits;
F. Future Tenant Identification Sign. Future onsite tenant identification signs may be placed
on vacant or developing property to advertise the future use of an approved project on the
property and where information may be obtained. Such sign shall be limited to one per
parcel and to a maximum of 32 square feet in area and eight feet in overall height. Further,
such signs shall be placed no closer than 10 feet to any property line. Any such sign shall
be removed upon finalization of Building Permits. Where a project has in excess of 600
lineal feet of frontage, one additional sign for each 600 lineal feet is allowed;
G. Real Estate Signs for Sale, Lease, or Rent of Commercial or Industrial Property. Real
estate signs for sale of commercial or industrial property, one sign per street frontage not to
exceed 32 square feet in area to advertise the sale, lease, or rent of such property. No
such sign shall exceed eight feet in overall height and shall not be located within the public
right -of -way. Where a property has in excess of 600 lineal feet of frontage, one additional
sign for each 600 lineal feet is allowed;
H. Interior signs within a structure or building when not visible or readable or intended to be
read from offsite or from outside of the structure or building;
I. Signs identifying a business, service or use sized no greater than four square feet in area
may be permitted. Said signs shall not be visible from the public right -of -way, shall be
attached to the main building, shall be intended for pedestrian traffic, and shall not
otherwise require a Building Permit;
J. Memorial tablets, plaques or directional signs for community historical resources, installed
by a City- recognized Historical Society or civic organization;
K. Convenience signs not exceeding four square feet in area, and five feet high when not
mounted to a building wall;
L. Directional signs not exceeding four square feet in area and five feet high when not
mounted on a building wall. For signs adjacent, and visible, to the street only one shall be
permitted for each access driveway. For signs interior to the site multiple signs are
allowable. No such sign shall display a commercial message except that signs providing
direction to a drive- through lane /window for a drive - through business may display the
business name and /or logo, only in addition to directional instruction, provided the business
name and /or logo comprises no more than 50% of the sign area. Such signs shall be
designed to be compatible with other freestanding signs on the site, constructed to be a
permanent installation, and maintained in good condition.
M. Residential building identification signs used to identify individual residences and not
exceeding four square feet in area;
N. One name plate per parcel not exceeding four square feet in area for single - family
residential uses and agricultural uses;
Ordinance No. 739
Page 13
O. Official and legal notices issued by any court, public body, person or officer or in
furtherance of any nonjudicial process approved by State or local law;
P. Signs providing direction, warning or informational signs or structures required or
authorized by law or by Federal, State, County or City authority;
Q. A single official flag of the United States of America and /or two flags of either the State of
California, or other states of the United States, counties, municipalities or official flags for
nations, and flags of internationally and nationally recognized organizations or the
company flag. Flags shall be a maximum of five feet by eight feet and shall be displayed in
a manner consistent with official flag etiquette;
R. Signs of public utility companies, indicating danger or which serve as an aid to public
safety, or which show locations of underground facilities or public telephones;
S. Safety signs on construction sites;
T. One freestanding time and temperature sign that conveys time and temperature only and
not exceeding 12 square feet in area nor 15 feet in height, or not higher than the roofline,
whichever is less, when combined with business identification in accordance with PMC
17.40.140 through 17.40.250, and counted toward sign area for the freestanding sign;
U. One wall- mounted time and temperature sign that conveys time and temperature only not
exceeding 12 square feet in area when combined with business identification in
accordance with PMC 17.40.140 through 17.40.250, and counted toward sign area for the
wall sign;
V. "No trespassing," "no parking" and similar warning signs not exceeding four square feet;
W. Signs on public transportation vehicles regulated by a political subdivision, including, but
not limited to, buses and taxicabs;
X. Signs on licensed commercial vehicles, provided such vehicles are not used or intended for
use as portable signs or as may be prohibited in PMC 17.40.100;
Y. A change of sign face which conforms to an approved Sign permit. Changes of a sign face
on a sign that does not have an approved Sign permit shall comply with PMC 17.40.020
through 17.40.040;
Z. Incidental signs for automobile repair stores, gasoline service stations, automobile dealers
with service repairs, motels and hotels, showing notices of services provided or required by
law, trade affiliations, credit cards accepted, and the like, attached to a freestanding sign,
structure or building; provided, that all of the following conditions exist:
1. The signs number no more than four,
2. No such sign projects beyond any property line,
3. No such sign shall exceed an area per face of four square feet;
AA. Copy applied to fuel pumps or dispensers by the manufacturer such as fuel identification,
station logo and other signs required by law;
BB. Agricultural signs, either wall or freestanding types, nonilluminated, and not exceeding four
square feet for lots two acres or less and 16 square feet for lots greater than two acres,
identifying only the agricultural products grown on the premises. The number of such signs
shall be one per street frontage or a maximum of two, with wall signs to be located below
the roofline and freestanding signs to be no higher than eight feet;
CC. Address numbers for buildings shall be exempt provided they meet the following height
limits. The minimum height is also specified in Chapter 15.24 PMC.
Ordinance No. 739
Page 14
DD. Flag banners in commercial zones subject to the following:
1. Flag banners shall be displayed only on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and on City
holidays,
2. Flag banners shall be displayed only on private property and not within any public
right -of- way.
3. Flag banners shall be limited to 15 feet in overall height, and 30 square feet in area.
4. Flag banners shall be installed on the ground, not within any parking space or drive
aisle, maintained in an upright position at all times, and shall be situated a minimum
of 5 feet from any walkway or drive aisle. At all times flag banners shall be
displayed in a manner that does not create a public safety hazard.
5. Each property which contains a single business, and each shopping or office center,
shall be permitted 1 flag banner for every 40 lineal feet of street frontage, up to a
maximum of 3.
(Ord. 674 § 42, 2008; Ord. 539 § 2, 2001; Ord. 525 § 4, 2000; Ord. 482 § 2(C), (D), 1997;
Ord. 443, 1995; Ord. 433, 1994; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.3(A)), 3,
1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.100 Prohibited signs.
A. All signs not expressly permitted are prohibited in all zones, including, but not limited to, the
following:
1. Roof signs;
2. Flashing signs, except time and temperature signs;
3. Animated signs, conveying the illusion of motion;
4. Revolving or rotating signs;
5. Vehicle signs, when parked or stored on property to identify a business or advertise
a product;
6. Portable signs, except where permitted in this Chapter;
7. Offsite signs, except as expressly otherwise provided by this Chapter;
8. Signs within the public right -of -way, except those required by a governmental
agency or authorized by PMC 17.40.090 and 17.40.170. No sign which is permitted
in the public right -of -way shall be placed, erected or constructed on a utility pole,
traffic device, traffic sign, warning sign, or so as to impede access to any public
improvement, or to obstruct the vision of any such traffic, warning, or directional
signs;
Minimum
Height
Maximum
Height
a. Residential
L Single- family
Four inches
Six inches
ii. Multifamily
Six inches
Six inches
b. Commercial
Six inches
18 inches
I c. Industrial
18 inches
24 inches
DD. Flag banners in commercial zones subject to the following:
1. Flag banners shall be displayed only on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and on City
holidays,
2. Flag banners shall be displayed only on private property and not within any public
right -of- way.
3. Flag banners shall be limited to 15 feet in overall height, and 30 square feet in area.
4. Flag banners shall be installed on the ground, not within any parking space or drive
aisle, maintained in an upright position at all times, and shall be situated a minimum
of 5 feet from any walkway or drive aisle. At all times flag banners shall be
displayed in a manner that does not create a public safety hazard.
5. Each property which contains a single business, and each shopping or office center,
shall be permitted 1 flag banner for every 40 lineal feet of street frontage, up to a
maximum of 3.
(Ord. 674 § 42, 2008; Ord. 539 § 2, 2001; Ord. 525 § 4, 2000; Ord. 482 § 2(C), (D), 1997;
Ord. 443, 1995; Ord. 433, 1994; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.3(A)), 3,
1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.100 Prohibited signs.
A. All signs not expressly permitted are prohibited in all zones, including, but not limited to, the
following:
1. Roof signs;
2. Flashing signs, except time and temperature signs;
3. Animated signs, conveying the illusion of motion;
4. Revolving or rotating signs;
5. Vehicle signs, when parked or stored on property to identify a business or advertise
a product;
6. Portable signs, except where permitted in this Chapter;
7. Offsite signs, except as expressly otherwise provided by this Chapter;
8. Signs within the public right -of -way, except those required by a governmental
agency or authorized by PMC 17.40.090 and 17.40.170. No sign which is permitted
in the public right -of -way shall be placed, erected or constructed on a utility pole,
traffic device, traffic sign, warning sign, or so as to impede access to any public
improvement, or to obstruct the vision of any such traffic, warning, or directional
signs;
Ordinance No. 739
Page 15
9. Signs located on public property except as may be permitted in PMC 17.40.090 or
those required by a governmental agency;
10. Signs within the public right -of -way prohibited by the Streets and Highways Code
(Section 101 et seq. and Section 1460 et seq.), the Vehicle Code (Section 21400 et
seq.) and the Public Utilities Code (Section 7538 et seq.);
11. Signs blocking doors or fire escapes;
12. Light bulb strings outside of the building, except as part of special event signage
approved under PMC 17.40.190 or as permanently installed lighting accentuating
architectural features of the building;
13. Banners, flags, pennants, flag banners, and balloons or other air inflated devices,
except for special events, or as otherwise provided for in PMC 17.40.090 and
17.40.190.
14. Inflatable advertising devices of a temporary nature, including hot air balloons,
except for special events as provided for in PMC 17.40.190;
15. Advertising structures, except as otherwise permitted in this Chapter;
16. Statuary (statues or sculptures) advertising products or logos of the business that
are located outside of the structure that houses the business;
17. The use of decals, stick -on or transfer letters, or tape on the walls or parapets of
buildings, fences, walls or other structures, not suitable;
18. Reader board /changeable copy signs, either electric or nonelectric except as
permitted in this Chapter;
19. Signs which purport to be or are an imitation of or resemble official traffic warning
devices or signs, that by color, location or lighting may confuse or disorient vehicular
or pedestrian traffic; this does not include traffic or directional signs installed on
private property to control onsite traffic;
20. Exposed neon tubing except in limited amounts used as a design element of a
permitted sign.
B. Notwithstanding any other provision hereof, whenever a commercial message is permitted
on a sign, a noncommercial message shall be permitted. Whenever one commercial
message is permitted on an onsite sign, any onsite commercial message shall be
permitted. Whenever one commercial message is permitted on an- offsite sign, any offsite
commercial message shall be permitted. And whenever a noncommercial message is
permitted on a sign, any noncommercial message shall be permitted. All such signage
shall be subject to the same standards and size requirements set forth in this Chapter.
Signs providing direction for traffic control purposes shall be limited to the directional
message. (Ord. 674 § 43, 2008; Ord. 525 §§ 5, 6, 2000; Ord. 482 § 2(E), 1997; Ord. 433,
1994; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.3(B)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh.
A), 1983)
17.40.110 Signs relating to inoperative activities.
Signs pertaining to activities or businesses which are no longer in operation, except for temporary
closures for repairs, alteration or similar situations, shall be removed from the premises or the sign
copy shall be removed within 30 days after the premises has been vacated, including copy from
the business directory. Any such sign not removed within the specified time shall constitute a
nuisance and shall be subject to removal under the provisions of this Chapter and local ordinance.
(Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.3(C)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Ordinance No. 739
Page 16
17.40.120 Enforcement, legal procedures and penalties.
A. Enforcement, legal procedures and penalties shall be in accordance with the enforcement
procedures established by the local ordinance.
B. Unauthorized illegal signs, other than temporary signs for elections and non - commercial
messages, may be abated by the City in accordance with local ordinance.
C. If said sign is stored by the City, the owner may recover said sign from the City upon
payment of any storage and /or removal charge incurred by the City.
D. The minimum charge shall be no less than $3.00 per sign. All signs removed by the City
may be destroyed 30 calendar days following removal.
E. If any sign, in the opinion of the Director of Development Services, is an immediate threat
to the public health and safety, said sign shall be immediately and summarily removed with
the cost of said removal charged to the property owner in accordance with local
ordinances. (Ord. 518, 1999; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.3(D)), 3,
1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.130 Construction and maintenance.
A. Construction. Every sign and all parts, portions and materials shall be manufactured,
assembled, and erected in compliance with all applicable State, Federal and City
regulations and the applicable building code.
B. Maintenance. Every sign and all parts, portions, and materials shall be maintained and
kept in proper repair. The display surface of all signs shall be kept clean, neatly painted
and free from rust and corrosion. Any cracked, or broken surfaces, and malfunctioning or
damaged portions of a sign shall be repaired or replaced within 30 calendar days following
notification of the business by the City. Noncompliance with such a request will constitute a
nuisance and will be abated in accordance with Chapters 1.08 and /or 8.72 PMC. Any
maintenance, except a change of sign face, which does not involve structural changes, is
permitted. (Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 § 1 (Exh. A 7.3(E)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1
(Exh. A), 1983)
Article VI. Sign Regulations
17.40.140 Sign permits.
Sign permits may be issued for signs included under this article provided the signs are in
compliance with all other applicable laws and ordinances. (Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1
(Exh. A 7.4(A)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.150 Signs permitted in all zoning districts.
The signs mentioned in PMC 17.40.170 through 17.40.210 may be permitted in any zoning
district. These signs are in addition to those signs expressly permitted in each zoning district and
are subject to the provisions listed in PMC 17.40.170 through 17.40.210. (Ord. 482 § 2(F), 1997;
Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4(A)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Ordinance No. 739
Page 17
17.40.170 Directional kiosks.
The City may install, or cause to be installed upon public right -of -way or other public property,
kiosks which provide traffic direction to public or semipublic facilities or events and /or areas of the
City or which identify public or semipublic transportation services. Kiosk inserts directing the public
to the South Poway area, the downtown business area, civic center area, Lake Poway area,
Performing Arts Center, Old Poway area, rodeo area, or other public or semipublic areas or
events are specifically permitted. All kiosks, including those permitted under this section, under
PMC 17.40.190(G) for community special events and under PMC 17.40.210 concerning offsite
real estate signage, shall be of consistent design and shall be installed and maintained under the
direct supervision of the City. (Ord. 525 § 7, 2000; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993)
17.40.180 Comprehensive Sign Program.
A Comprehensive Sign Program shall be developed for all shopping, or office, centers consisting
of four or more tenant spaces. The purpose of the program shall be to integrate signs with
building and landscaping design into a unified architectural unit. This shall be achieved by:
A. Using the same type of cabinet supports, or method of mounting for signs of the same
type, or by using the same type of construction material for components, such as sign
copy, cabinets and supports, or by using dissimilar signing determined compatible by the
Director of Development Services;
B. Using the same form of illumination for all signs, or by using varied forms of illumination
determined compatible by the Director of Development Services;
(Ord. 518, 1999; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4), 3,1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh.
A(2)), 1983)
17.40.190 Temporary signs.
Temporary signs, which include banners and other advertising devices identified in this Chapter,
may be approved for a limited period of time as a means of publicizing special events such as
grand openings, new management, sales, Christmas tree lots, multi - family residential leasing, and
community special events that are to take place within the City.
A. General Requirements.
1. Approval. To apply for approval of temporary signs, the applicant shall submit a
letter to the Director of Development Services which describes the size, appearance
and location of the proposed signage by means of a sketch and written description,
and which indicates the display dates. The Director of Development Services shall
review the request within two working days after receipt and approve, approve with
modification or deny the request.
2. Enforcement. Signs which are installed or displayed without approval of the
Director of Development Services are in violation of this section and are subject to
issuance of a citation or other enforcement action as described in Chapter 17.54
PMC.
3. Maintenance. Temporary signage shall be maintained in good condition.
4. Log of Usage. The Development Services Department shall maintain a log of
temporary signage approved for each business, other than those addressed under
PMC 17.40.190 D and E, and for multi - family residential leasing activity. If the
Development Services Department is notified, prior to installation of the temporary
signs, that the signage will not be used, the application will be canceled and the
P
Ordinance No. 739
Page 18
signage not deducted from the total number of days of temporary signage available.
If signage is installed without approval of the Development Services Department it
shall be deducted from the total number of days available at a rate of two days for
every one weekday unapproved signs are displayed and at a rate of four days for
every one weekend day unapproved signs are displayed.
Type of Signage Allowed. The type of signage that may be displayed by a business shall
be as follows:
Grand
Opening
Consecutive days 30
Frequency 1 time
One banner, and balloons on
strings under 3 feet in length Yes
Pennants Yes
Strings of outdoor lights Yes
One onsite, freestanding
special event sign (532
square feet and <_ 8 feet
high) Yes
Ground - mounted inflatable
advertising devices Yes
Roof - mounted inflatable
advertising devices No
Strings of balloons No
Search lights Yes
Promotional Christmas Tree Lots
Sales and Pumpkin Patches
N/A 40
N/A
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
1 per season
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
Ordinance No. 739
Page 19
C. Building Mounted Banners
1. Size. The maximum size banner that may be displayed will depend on the width of
the store front, or the multi - family building, on which it is to be displayed and shall
be according to the following table:
Maximum Size
Banner Allowed Store or Building
(square feet) Width (feet)
20
5 15
25
> 15 and 5 20
30
> 20 and 5 35
35
> 35 and 5 50
45
> 50 and :5 75
50
> 75 and _< 100
55
> 100 and <_ 150
60
> 150 and 5 250
65
> 250
2. Number. No more than one banner may be displayed by a business or multi - family
site at one time except that the City Council may approve the display of a second
banner for businesses in freestanding buildings located at the intersection of two
circulation element streets.
3. Appearance and Mounting. Banners shall be attached to the building, parallel to the
wall of the business they are advertising or wall of the multi - family building that is
being leased. Banners may not be installed on a wall which is on the property line.
In all cases, banners shall be mounted with all four corners secure and so that they
are level, do not sag, and are pulled taut into a straight line across the top, with the
top and bottom edges of the banner parallel to each other.
4. Days Allowed. Businesses and multi - family sites may display temporary signage for
up to 75 days per year in addition to signage permitted for a "grand opening" as
defined in this Chapter.
D. Temporary Signage for Motor Vehicle Dealerships, and Other Retail Businesses Engaging
in City- Approved Outdoor Product Display.
1. Days Allowed. Temporary signage may be displayed each Friday, Saturday,
Sunday, and City holiday. No temporary signage shall be allowed Monday through
Thursday, excepting City holidays, unless otherwise allowed for a special
promotional parking lot sales event pursuant to PMC 17.26.030.
2. Type of Signage Allowed. One banner, not to exceed 65 square feet in area, may
be displayed, and each vehicle or outdoor display area may have either a flag or
pennant not exceeding 12 inches by 17 inches, or a balloon on a string under three
feet in length.
E. Temporary Signage for Offsite Sales Events. For offsite motor vehicle, recreational vehicle
and /or boat sales events, inflatables (either tethered or mounted on the ground) may be
displayed at the offsite location, in addition to normal temporary signage. This special
event signage may not be displayed for more than four days per event.
Ordinance No. 739
Page 20
F. Advertising Kiosks. As part of a Comprehensive Sign Program, the Director of
Development Services may approve a structure designated for the display of a limited
number of temporary signs by businesses in shopping, or office, centers. The following
regulations shall apply to advertising kiosks, in addition to any specific conditions called out
in the Comprehensive Sign Program:
1. The design of the kiosk must be consistent with the design of the other freestanding
signs in the center and with the applicable design standards in an applicable
Specific Plan.
2. Kiosks may not exceed eight feet in height nor 40 square feet in area.
3. The range of street addresses to be found within the center shall be prominently
displayed on the top of each kiosk.
4. No more than three signs may be displayed per kiosk. Signs shall be in the form of
rigid panels which slide into the sign structure.
5. Advertisement on the kiosk is an alternative to, not an addition to, the display of a
banner on the storefront.
G. Community special events, as defined in this Chapter, may be advertised on the
community events kiosks provided by the City. Additional offsite, freestanding signs shall
be permitted as follows:
1. A total of seven freestanding signs shall be permitted at major entrances to the City
and one sign shall be permitted at a centrally located area in the City. At no time
may more than one sign be display at each location.
2. Signs shall be no more than 8 feet high and 24 square feet in area.
3. No sign shall contain commercial advertising nor may the name or logo of any
commercial sponsor or co- sponsor be displayed.
4. Signs may be installed not more than 30 days before the scheduled beginning of
the event and shall be removed within seven days after the conclusion of the event.
(Ord. 661 § 8, 2007; Ord. 482 § 2(G), 1997; Ord. 443, 1995; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord.
113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.200 Onsite subdivision signs.
A. One temporary onsite subdivision sign not to exceed 64 square feet total for two sides or
32 square feet for one side and a total overall height of 12 feet may be permitted on each
circulation element street frontage of the property being subdivided, not to exceed two such
signs for all phases of any subdivision; otherwise a maximum of one sign is permitted.
B. Such sign shall be for the identification of a subdivision, price information and the
developer's name, address and telephone number.
C. Such signs shall be removed within 10 calendar days from the date of the final sale of the
land and /or residences or within 24 months, whichever comes first. Extensions of 12
months may be approved by the Director of Development Services.
D. Signs shall be maintained in good repair at all times.
E. A cash deposit of $300.00 per sign shall be deposited with the sign application to ensure
compliance with the chapter and removal of such sign. The deposit shall be refunded to
the applicant upon sign removal by the applicant. If the City is forced to remove any signs,
then the cost of removal shall be deducted from the deposit. (Ord. 518, 1999; Ord. 427
(Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4(4)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Ordinance No. 739
Page 21
17.40.210 Real estate kiosks.
A. Offsite direction signage to real estate subdivisions may be provided through participation
in the kiosk program established by the City.
B. All offsite subdivision signs not conforming to this Chapter shall be deemed a public
nuisance and removed.
C. Participation in the kiosk program shall be allowed until the units within the subdivision are
sold out, or for a period of 24 months, whichever comes first. Extensions of 12 months may
be approved by the Director of Development Services. (Ord. 518, 1999; Ord. 427 (Exh. A),
1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4(5)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.220 Signs permitted in single - family residential, Open Space- Recreation, and Public Facility
zones.
The following performance standards shall be met in all cases in the single- family zones:
(Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4(13)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Maximum
Maximum Sign
Maximum
Class
Sign Type
Area in Square
Other Standards
Number
Height
Feet
1. Institutional
Wall
1 of either a wall
20 square feet
Below roofline
Street address shall be
signs for
or freestanding
incorporated into the
private
street
face or structure of the
Freestanding
24 square feet for
6 feet
schools,
frontage with a
identification;
churches,
maximum of 2
square feet with
government
changeable copy
May incorporate electric
facilities, and
or nonelectric
other similar
changeable copy for
uses
events and time of
events.
2. Area
Wall
1 of either a wall
36 square feet
6 feet
identification
or freestanding
Freestanding
sign per
4 feet
development
entrance, with a
maximum of 2
3. School
Wall
1 of either a wall
20 square feet
Below roofline
Street address shall be
identification
or freestanding
incorporated into the
sign per street
face or structure of the
Freestanding
frontage with a
50 square feet
20 feet
sign
maximum of 2
To be located no closer
than 5 feet from the
property line.
May incorporate electric
or nonelectric
changeable copy for
events and time of
events.
4.
Wall
1
18 square feet
Below roofline
Nonconforming
commercial
Freestanding
1
18 square feet
6 feet
uses
(Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4(13)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Ordinance No. 739
Page 22
17.40.230 Signs permitted in the multifamily and mobile home park zones.
The following performance standards shall be met in all cases in the multifamily and mobile home
park zones:
(Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4(C)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A),
1983)
17.40.240 Signs permitted in commercial zones.
The following performance standards shall be met in all cases in the commercial zones:
Class
Sign Type
Maximum
Maximum
Maximum
Other Standards
Class
Sign Type
Number
Sign Area in
Height
Other Standards
shopping
be architecturally
Sq. Ft.
designed to be
1.
Signs shall be in harmony with the
Multifamily
scale and design of the
Wall
Each building face
development.
Not to project
Illuminated signs shall
Street address shall be
incorporated into the face or
total area of
above the
structure of the sign.
Wall
1 of either a
12 square feet for
Not above the
Freestanding signs shall be placed
walls which face, and
wall or
12 units or less;
roofline
no closer than 5 feet to the
freestanding
24 square feet for
property line.
street
more than 12
frontage not
Freestanding
g feet
frontage
is
units
a maximum of
percent of
2 per
building wall
development
area, or 150
2. Mobile
Wall
1 per
36 square feet
6 feet
Street address shall be
home park
development
incorporated into the face or
Freestanding
4 feet
entrance
structure of the sign
(Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4(C)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A),
1983)
17.40.240 Signs permitted in commercial zones.
The following performance standards shall be met in all cases in the commercial zones:
Class
Sign Type
Maximum Number
Maximum
Sign Area
Maximum
Height
Other Standards
1. Businesses
Wall signs and
(not within
freestanding signs shall
shopping
be architecturally
centers)
designed to be
compatible with the
development.
Wall
Each building face
Combined
Not to project
Illuminated signs shall
and or frontage
total area of
above the
not be permitted on
shall be permitted
all signs on
roofline
walls which face, and
multiple wall signs
each building
are visible to, abutting
face and /or
residentially zoned
frontage not
property
to exceed 15
percent of
building wall
area, or 150
square feet,
Ordinance No. 739
Page 23
whichever is
less
Freestanding
1 per street
40 square
8 feet or up to
Freestanding signs shall
frontage, with a
feet
15 feet in
be placed on the
maximum of 2 per
accordance
subject property and
site. An additional
with Sections
shall not overhang other
sign may be
17.40.020(A)
private property.
permitted along the
and
Street addresses shall
street frontage of a
17.40.260(G)
be incorporated into the
major arterial, as
face or structure of
designated in the
each freestanding sign
City General Plan,
in numerals at least 6
provided all the
inches high.
following exist: the
site frontage along
The area dedicated to
the major arterial is
the street address shall
more the 300 feet,
not be included in the
there are at least 2
square footage
driveways providing
calculation for purposes
access to the site
of complying with the
from the major
maximum sign area
arterial, and the sign
limitation.
would be no closer
than 100 feet to any
other freestanding
sign.
2.13usinesses
All shopping centers
within
shall develop a
shopping
Comprehensive Sign
centers
Program for all tenants
and uses.
Wall
Each building face
Combined
Not to project
All shopping centers
and /or frontage
total area of
above the
with four or more
shall be permitted
all signs on
roofline
tenants shall develop a
multiple wall signs
each building
Comprehensive Sign
face and /or
Program.
frontage not
to exceed 15
Illuminated signs shall
percent of
not be permitted on
building wall
building walls which
area or 150
face, and are visible to,
square feet,
abutting residentially
whichever is
zoned property
less
Freestanding
1 per street
65 square
8 feet, or up to
Street addresses shall
frontage, not to
feet
15 feet in
be incorporated into the
exceed 3 per
accordance
face or structure of
shopping center.
with Sections
each freestanding sign
An additional sign
17.40.020(A)
in numerals at least 6
may be permitted
and
inches high. The area
along the street
17.40.260(G)
dedicated to the street
frontage of a major
address shall not be
arterial, as
included in the square
designated in the
footage calculation for
City General Plan,
purposes of complying
provided all the
1with the maximum sign
Ordinance No. 739
Page 24
following exist: the
area limitation.
site frontage along
the major arterial is
All copy on a
more the 300 feet,
freestanding sign shall
there are at least 2
be in letters /numerals
driveways providing
which are at least six
access to the site
inches in height.
from the major
arterial, and the sign
would be no closer
than 100 feet to any
other freestanding
sign.
3. Businesses
All office centers with
within office
four or more tenants
centers
shall develop a
Comprehensive Sign
Program.
Wall
Each building
Combined
Not to project
Illuminated signs shall
frontage, which
total area of
above the
not be permitted on
faces a street or
all signs on
roofline
building walls which
main parking lot,
each building
face, and are visible to,
shall be permitted
face and /or
abutting residentially
multiple wall signs.
frontage not
zoned property
to exceed 15
percent of
building wall
area, or 150
square feet,
whichever is
less
Freestanding
1 per street frontage
40 square
8 feet, or up to
Street addresses shall
with a maximum of
feet
15 feet in
be incorporated into the
2
accordance
face or structure of
An additional sign
with Sections
each freestanding sign
may be permitted
17.40.020(A)
in numerals at least 6
along the street
and
inches high. The area
frontage of a major
17.40.260(G)
dedicated to the street
arterial, as
address shall not be
designated in the
included in the square
City General Plan,
footage calculation for
provided all the
purposes of complying
following exist: the
with the maximum sign
site frontage along
area limitation.
the major arterial is
more the 300 feet,
there are at least 2
driveways providing
access to the site
from the major
arterial, and the sign
would be no closer
than 100 feet to any
other freestanding
sign.
Directory (wall
3 per building
112 square
I
I Placed on the wall at
Ordinance No. 739
Page 25
or
freestanding)
feet
main entrances or
freestanding.
Limited to listing the
tenant's name and suite
name.
Directed at pedestrian
traffic.
4. Service
Freestanding
1 per street
40 square
8 feet, or up to
station
frontage, not to
feet
15 feet in
exceed a total of 2
accordance
per station
with Sections
17.40.020(A)
and
17.40.260(G)
Price sign
1 per street
16 square
8 feet, or up to
(freestanding)
frontage, not to
feet for price
15 feet in
exceed a total of 2
sign
accordance
per station
with Sections
17.40.020(A)
and
17.40.260(G)
Special
3 for each pump
4 square feet
If mounted on a
Special service signs
service signs
island
wall or pole of
shall be limited to such
(wall or
the canopy it
items as self - service,
freestanding
shall be no
full -serve, air, water,
signs)
higher than 8
cashier and shall be
feet.
nonilluminated.
Freestanding
signs shall not
exceed 3 feet in
height.
5. Motion
Wall
Each building face
15 percent of
Not to project
May include electric or
picture or play
and /or frontage
the building
above the
nonelectric reader
house theater
shall be permitted
face, not to
roofline
board or changeable
multiple wall signs
exceed 150
copy sign to display
square feet
current and coming
attractions.
Current
4
8 square feet
8 feet
Nonelectric reader
coming
board /changeable copy
attraction
sign to display current
(wall)
and coming attractions.
Freestanding
1
40 square
8 feet
feet
6. Auto
Wall
Each building face
15% of
Not to project
dealerships
and /or frontage
building face
above roofline
shall be permitted
not to exceed
multiple wall signs
150 square
feet per face
Freestanding
2
40 square
8 feet, or up to
Must be set back at
feet
15 feet in
least 20 feet from side
accordance
property line and
with Sections
separated by at least
17.40.020(A)
100 feet from other
and
1freestanding signs
Ordinance No. 739
Page 26
(Ord. 495, 1998; Ord. 482 § 2(H), (1), 1997; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A
7.4(D)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.250 Signs permitted in industrial zones.
Repealed by Ord. 674. (Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4(E)), 3,1983; Ord. 82 §
1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Article VII. Design Standards
17.40.260 Design standards designated.
Each sign shall be designed with the intent and purpose to complement the architectural style of
the main building or buildings or type of business on the site and, to the extent possible, signs
located on commercial sites, but in a predominantly residential area, shall take into consideration
compatibility with the residential area.
A. Relationship to Buildings. Signs located upon a lot with only one main building housing the
use which the sign identifies, shall be designed to be compatible with the predominant
visual elements of the building, such as construction materials, color or other design detail.
Each sign located upon a lot with more than one main building, such as a shopping center
or other commercial or industrial area developed in accordance with a common
development plan, shall be designed to be compatible with predominant visual design
elements common or similar to all such buildings or the buildings occupied by the "main
tenants" or principal uses. The Development Services Director may condition his /her
recommendation or approval of a sign to require such visual elements to be incorporated
into the design of the sign where such element(s) are necessary to achieve a significant
visual relationship between the sign and building or buildings.
17.40.260(G)
Street addresses shall
be incorporated into the
face or structure of
each freestanding sign
in numerals at least 6
inches high. The area
dedicated to the street
address shall not be
included in the square
footage calculation for
purposes of complying
with the maximum sign
area limitation.
Convenience
As needed to direct
6 square feet
5 feet
traffic to services,
customer parking,
etc.
7. Drive-
Menu board
2 per drive - through
40 square
8 feet
Directed at drive -
through
lane
feet
through traffic and
restaurants
screened from public
street
(Ord. 495, 1998; Ord. 482 § 2(H), (1), 1997; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A
7.4(D)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.250 Signs permitted in industrial zones.
Repealed by Ord. 674. (Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.4(E)), 3,1983; Ord. 82 §
1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Article VII. Design Standards
17.40.260 Design standards designated.
Each sign shall be designed with the intent and purpose to complement the architectural style of
the main building or buildings or type of business on the site and, to the extent possible, signs
located on commercial sites, but in a predominantly residential area, shall take into consideration
compatibility with the residential area.
A. Relationship to Buildings. Signs located upon a lot with only one main building housing the
use which the sign identifies, shall be designed to be compatible with the predominant
visual elements of the building, such as construction materials, color or other design detail.
Each sign located upon a lot with more than one main building, such as a shopping center
or other commercial or industrial area developed in accordance with a common
development plan, shall be designed to be compatible with predominant visual design
elements common or similar to all such buildings or the buildings occupied by the "main
tenants" or principal uses. The Development Services Director may condition his /her
recommendation or approval of a sign to require such visual elements to be incorporated
into the design of the sign where such element(s) are necessary to achieve a significant
visual relationship between the sign and building or buildings.
Ordinance No. 739
Page 27
B. Relationship to Other Signs. Where there is more than one freestanding sign located on a
lot, all such signs shall have designs which are complementary to each other by either
similar treatment or incorporation of one or more of the following design elements:
1. Type of construction materials, such as cabinet, sign copy, supports;
2. Letter style of sign copy;
3. Type or method used for supports, uprights or structure on which sign is supported;
4. Sign cabinet or other configuration of sign area;
5. Shape of entire sign and its several components.
C. Landscaping. Each freestanding sign shall be located in a planted landscaped area which
is of a shape, design and size, equal to at least the maximum allowable sign area that will
provide a compatible setting and ground definition to the sign. The landscaping shall be
maintained in a neat, healthy and thriving condition.
D. Illumination and Motion. Signs shall be nonmoving, stationary structures (in all
components) and illumination, if any, shall be maintained by artificial light which is
stationary and constant in intensity and color at all times (nonflashing).
E. Sign Copy. The name of the business, use, service and /or identifying logo shall be the
dominant message on the sign. Address numbers are required to be shown for each
business or center on a freestanding sign or, if none exist, on the building. The area of the
address numbers shall not count against the allowable sign area.
F. Relationship to Streets. Signs shall be designed so as not to obstruct any pedestrian,
bicyclist or driver's view of right -of -way. A freestanding sign adjacent to a driveway or
street providing vehicular access to an abutting lot or street shall not be located within 15
feet of the intersection of the driveway and the street right -of -way and /or shall comply with
the design standards for site visibility of the California Department of Transportation
(Caltrans) (see PMC 17.08.240(C)).
G. Maximum Sign Height. Freestanding signs shall be designed to be low profile. New and
replacement freestanding signs shall not be approved for heights greater than eight feet
unless the City Council finds that extraordinary circumstances exist which warrant the
approval of a sign greater than eight feet in height. Such extraordinary circumstances shall
include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Impaired visibility from vehicles entering or exiting the primary driveway of the
proposed or existing development;
2. Placement of an existing nonconforming building is such that there is limited, if not
any, space available for a visible low- profile sign; and
3. The grade of the site is such that the placement of a low - profile sign would not be
visible from the street. (Ord. 674 § 45, 2008; Ord. 518, 1999; Ord. 427 (Exh. A),
1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.5(A — F)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Article VIII. Nonconforming Signs
17.40.270 Intent.
It is the intent of this article to recognize that the eventual elimination of existing signs that are not
in conformity with the provisions of this Chapter is as important as is the prohibition of new signs
that would violate these regulations. (Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.6(A)), 3,
1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
Ordinance No. 739
Page 28
17.40.280 General requirements.
A. A nonconforming sign may not be:
1. Changed to another nonconforming sign. Changes of copy, including legal
nonconforming billboards, shall comply with the requirements of PMC 17.40.020
through 17.40.040;
2. Structurally altered to extend its useful life;
3. Expanded, moved or relocated;
4. Re- established after a business, not within a center, or a business within a center
without an approved Comprehensive Sign Program, is discontinued; or
5. Re- established after damage or destruction of more than 50 percent of the sign
value as determined by the Director of Development Services.
B. A new sign may be approved for a site, structure, building or use that contains
nonconforming signs if it meets one or more of the following criteria:
1. It is part of an approved Comprehensive Sign Program; or
2. It lessens the nonconformity. (Ord. 518, 1999; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§
1 (Exh. A 7.6(B)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.290 Amortization requirements.
Every sign or advertising structure which does not comply with the provisions of this Chapter shall
be amortized in accordance with this article. Time periods for amortization of nonconforming
signs shall begin from April 6, 2012. Any sign not complying with the provisions of this Chapter at
the end of the amortization period shall be deemed a public nuisance and abated in accordance
with local ordinances.
A. Signs to Be Brought into Conformance within 90 Days. The following signs, unless
otherwise authorized by this Chapter, shall be removed or otherwise brought into
conformance within 90 days from April 6, 2012:
1. Illegal Signs. Any sign erected without a permit and /or erected in contravention to
regulations in existence at the time of its erection or placement, or without a valid
sign and /or Building Permit;
2. Temporary signs or temporary onsite devices attached to signs or used in
conjunction with the promotion of any product, service or use, such as flags,
banners, bunting, inflatable devices, pennants, streamers, and spinners;
3. Portable signs;
4. Rotating signs; and
5. Flashing signs.
B. Legal Nonconforming Signs, Other Than Freestanding Signs. Any permanent sign which
was properly erected pursuant to regulations in existence at the time of its erection or
placement, and with a valid sign and /or Building Permit, but which does not meet the
requirements of this Chapter, shall be allowed to remain in existence, notwithstanding its
nonconforming character, for the useful life of the sign, providing that such signs and sign
structures remain in full compliance with PMC 17.40.130(8). Such signs must be brought
into conformance if major exterior building modification occurs as determined by the
Director of Development Services.
C. Legal Nonconforming Freestanding Signs. Any permanent freestanding sign measuring 65
square feet or less and 25 feet or less in height, which was properly erected pursuant to
Ordinance No. 739
Page 29
the regulations in existence at the time of its erection or placement, and with a valid Sign
Permit and /or Building Permit, shall be allowed to remain for the useful life of the sign,
providing that such sign structures remain in full compliance with PMC 17.40.130(B),
17.40.270 and 17.40.280. Such signs must be brought into conformance if a Building
Permit or permits are subsequently issued on the site for major exterior modifications
unless such conformance is waived by the Director of Development Services. (Ord. 518,
1999; Ord. 482 § 2(J), 1997; Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113 §§ 1 (Exh. A 7.6(C)), 3,
1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.300 Historical signs.
Signs which have historical significance to the community, but do not conform to the provisions of
this Chapter, may be issued a permit to remain; provided, that the City Council makes the
following findings:
A. The sign has historical significance for the community;
B. The sign does not create nor cause a traffic hazard;
C. The sign does not create a visual nuisance to the character of the community;
D. The sign is properly maintained and structurally sound;
E. The sign does not adversely affect adjacent properties. (Ord. 427 (Exh. A), 1993; Ord. 113
§§ 1 (Exh. A 7.6(D)), 3, 1983; Ord. 82 § 1 (Exh. A), 1983)
17.40.310 Severability.
Each provision of this Chapter is separate and distinct from all others. In the event that any
provision is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unlawful or unconstitutional, it
shall be severed from all other provisions hereof, and the remainder shall continue to be of full
force and effect. The City Council specifically declares that it would have passed and adopted the
sections of this Chapter regulating the size of signs and prohibiting billboards whether or not it
adopted any other provisions hereof; that those sections are separate, distinct, and severable
from all other sections hereof; and that the invalidity of any other provisions hereof shall not affect
the validity of those sections. (Ord. 525 § 8, 2000)
Section 4: This Ordinance shall be codified.
EFFECTIVE DATE: This Ordinance shall take effect and be in force thirty (30) days after its
adoption.
CERTIFICATION /PUBLICATION: The City Clerk shall certify the adoption of this Ordinance
and cause it or a summary of it, to be published with the names of the City Council members
voting for and against the same in the Poway News Chieftain, a newspaper of general circulation
in the City of Poway within fifteen (15) days after its adoption and shall post a certified copy of this
Ordinance in the Office of the City Clerk in accordance with Government Code § 36933.
Ordinance No. 739
Page 30
Introduced and first read at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Poway held
the 21 st day of February 2012, and thereafter PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of
said City Council held the 6th day of March 2012.
Don Higginson, Mayor
ATTEST:
Lir a A)Troyan, MMC, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) ss.
COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO)
I, Linda A. Troyan, City Clerk of the City of Poway, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Ordinance No. 739, was duly adopted by the City Council at a meeting of said City Council held
on the 6th day of March 2012, and that it was so adopted by the following vote:
AYES: BOYACK, GROSCH, MULLIN, CUNNINGHAM, HIGGINSON
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
DISQUALIFIED: NONE
Linda . Troyan, MMC, City Clerk
. f'�ity Poway