HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrd 1015-1987ORDINANCE N0.1015-87
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING TITLE 17 AND AMENDING
TITLE 20 OF THE SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO MUNICIPAL
CODE TO ADD CHAPTER 20.76 AND CHAPTER 20.86
PERTAINING TO THE REGULATION OF SIGNS
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO DOES ORDAIN AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Title 20, Zoning, of the South San Francisco Municipal Code
is hereby amended by the addition of Chapter 20.76, Sign Regulations, and Chap-
ter 20.86, Sign Permit Procedure, which shall read as set forth in Exhibit "A"
attached and incorporated.
SECTION 2. Title 17, Signs and Advertising Structures, of the South San
Francisco Municipal Code is hereby repealed.
SECTION 3.
repealed.
Ordinance No. 455, as amended by Ordinance No. 878, is hereby
SECTION 4. SEVERABILITY.
In the event any section or portion of this Ordinance shall be determined in-
valid or unconstitutional, such section or portion shall be deemed severable and
all other sections or portions hereof shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 5. PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE.
Pursuant to the provisions of Government Code Section 36933, a Summary of this
Ordinance shall be prepared by the City Attorney. At least five (5) days prior
to the Council meeting at which this Ordinance is scheduled to be adopted, the
City Clerk shall (1) publish the Summary and (2) post in the City Clerk's Office
a certified copy of this Ordinance. Within fifteen (15) days after the adoption
of this Ordinance, the City Clerk shall (1) publish the Summary, and (2) post in
the City Clerk's office a certified copy of the full text of this Ordinance along
with the names of those City Council members voting for and against this Ordinance
or otherwise. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days from and
after its adoption.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of South
San Francisco, held the 11th day of March , 19 87
Adopted as an Ordinance of the City of South San Francisco at a regular
meeting of the City Council of the City of South San Francisco, held the 25th
day of March , 19 87 , by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers John "Jack" Drago, Richard A. Haffey, Gus Nicolopulos,
Roberta Cerri Teglia, and Mark N. Addiego
None
NOES:
ABSENT:
None
foregoing Ordinance this 25th
~ATTEST:w City Clerk
As Mayor of the City of South San Francisco, I do hereby approve the
day of March , 19 87 .
~~ M~y~r~
EXHIBIT A TO ORDINANCE NO.~g15-87
~ 20.76
SI~N REGULATIONS
Sections:
20.76.010
20.76.020
20.76. 030
20.76.040
20.76.050
20.76.060
20.76.070
20.76°080
20.76.090
20.76.100
20.76.110
20.76.120
20.76.130
20.76.140
20.76.150
20.76.160
20.76.170
20.76.180
20.76.190
20.76.200
General Provisions.
Sign Permit Procedure.
Compliance with Codes.
Appurtenant to Use.
Obsolete Signs.
Consent of Owner.
Enforcement- -Liability- -Penalty.
Exempted Signs.
Prohibited Signs.
NainteD_a_nce of Signs
Permissible Sign Area.
Permissible Sign Height.
Multi-Tenant Facilities.
General Sign Stan,'larc~S.
Temporary Signs.
Special Circumstances.
Removal of Nonconforming Signs Which Became
Nonconforming On or After ~arch 12, 1983.
Nonconforming Signs-Alterations Permitted.
Exemption from Required Removal/Alteration=
Classic Signs
Section 20.76.010 Purpose. This chapter establishes the Sign
Regulations; the purpose of these provisions is to regulate the
use of all signs within the City of South San Francisco.
Policies 30, 35, and 36 of the Land Use Element of the South San
Francisco General Plan as adopted in June 1984, are reflected in
these regulations. Exempted, prohibited, and restricted signs,
and general standards for commercial signs which apply to all
areas are the subject of these regulations. In adopting these
regulations, it is the stated purpose of the City Council to
provide minimum standards to safeguard life, health, property,
and the public welfare by controlling the design, quality of
materials, construction, size, location and maintenance of signs.
The function of signs is to identify a business in a manner that
is most harmonious with an aesthetic and functional business
environment, and signs that are well designed and pleasing in
appearance are encouraged to reduce overhead clutter and enhance
property values. It is not the intention, in enacting these
regulations, that on-site signs be used for general advertising
purposes but rather to identify the business to which the sign
relates.
20.76-1
~ection 20,76,020 ~ener&l Provisions, The provisions of this
chapter apply to all signs except as specifically exempted by
Section 20.76.090.
Section 20.76.030 Si~n Permit Procedure. It is unlawful for
any person, firm or corporation to erect or maintain any sign of
any nature, except those exempted in Section 20.76.090, without
first obtaining both the appropriate sign permit as required by
this chapter and following the procedure in Chapter 20.86, and a
building permit, as required by the Building Inspector, and
paying fees as set forth in the master fee schedule as adopted by
the City Council.
Section 20.76.040 Compliance with Codes.
(a)
Compliance with Building Code. Ail signs and sign
structures shall be designed and constructed to resist
wind and seismic forces as specified in the Uniform
Building Code, and all materials of construction for
signs and sign structures shall be of the quality and
grade as specified for buildings in said code.
(b)
Compliance with Electrical Code. Electrical signs
shall bear the Underwriter's Laboratories Incorporated
label of approval, and meet the requirements, and be
constructed and installed in compliance with the
National Electrical Code.
Section 20.76.050 Appurtenant to Use. Every new sign installed
after the effective date of this chapter, except those specified
in Section 20.76.090, shall contain only copy which relates to
the occupant(s) of the lot or structure upon which such sign is
located, erected, or maintained.
Section 20.76.060 Obsolete Signs. Any on-site sign, including
its supporting structure, which pertains to enterprises or
occupants that are no longer using a property shall be deemed
obsolete and shall be removed from the premises within thirty
days after the associated enterprise or occupant has vacated the
premises.
Any such sign not removed within the required period shall
constitute a nuisance and shall be subject to summary abatement
pursuant to Government Code Section 38773, and the expense of
such abatement shall be a lien against the property on which the
sign was maintained and a personal obligation against the
property owner. The property owner shall first be served with a
notice to abate the nuisance and shall be given an opportunity
for a hearing before the City Manager or the City Manager's
designated representative. If, after such opportunity for
hearing is waived or if a hearing is held and the City Manager
determines abatement is proper, those responsible for the
20.76-2
enforcement of the provisions of this title shall have the
authority to enter upon the private property to remove the sign
constituting the nuisance. The foregoing procedure may be
utilized separately or in conjunction with any other remedy
provided by law.
Section 20.76.070 Consent of Owner. It is unlawful to erect,
construct, place or maintain any sign upon any property or
building without the consent of the owner, holder, lessee, agent
or trustee thereof.
Section 20.76.080 Enforcement--LiabilitM--Penalt¥.
(a)
Liability for Damages. The provisions of this chapter
shall not be construed as relieving or limiting in any
way the responsibility or liability of any person
erecting or owning any sign for personal injury or
property damage resulting from the placing of such
signs, or resulting from the negligence or willful acts
of such persons, their agents, employees or workers in
the construction, maintenance, repair or removal of any
sign. Nor shall this chapter be construed as imposing
upon the City, or its officers, or employees any
responsibility or liability by reason of the approval
of any signs, materials or devices under the provisions
of this chapter.
(b)
Enforcement. It shall be the duty of the Code
Enforcement Officer to enforce the provisions of this
title; referrals may be made by the Planning Division,
Building Division or Police Department.
(c)
Violations. If the Code Enforcement Officer finds any
sign not complying with the regulations of this title,
written notice shall be given to the sign owner and to
the property owner. If such sign owner fails to remove
or alter the sign so as to comply with the standards
herein set forth within thirty days after such notice,
the Code Enforcement Officer may cause such sign to be
removed, or altered to comply, at the expense of the
sign owner or owner of the property upon which it is
located.
(d)
Removal Without Notice. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
the Chief Building Inspector, Code Enforcement Officer,
or Police Department may cause any sign which is an
immediate peril to persons or property, or which is
located on public property in violation of Section
20.76.100 to be removed summarily and without notice.
(e)
Penalty for Violation. Any person violating a
provision of this title or failing to comply with a
20.76-3
mandatory requirement of this title shall be guilty of
a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, such person shall
be punished as set forth in Chapter 1.24 of the South
San Francisco Municipal Code.
Section 20.76.090 ExemDte~ Signs. The following types of signs
shall be subject to all the provisions of this Chapter and any
applicable requirements for a building permit, but shall be
exempt from the provisions of Section 20.76.030:
(a)
One professional nameplate not exceeding one square
foot in area for each occupant;
(b)
Professional occupation signs denoting only the name
and profession of an occupant in a commercial or public
institutional building and not exceeding one sign four
square feet in area for each occupant;
(c)
One bulletin board not exceeding twenty-four square
feet in area, for public, charitable or religious
institutions, if located on the premises of the
institutions;
(d)
Traffic, directional or informational signs not more
than four square feet in area, bearing no advertising
message and located wholly within the site to which the
sign is appurtenant; signs not exceeding one square
foot in area erected for the convenience of the public,
such as signs identifying restrooms, public telephones,
walkways and similar features or facilities;
(e)
Temporary signs, approved by the City, erected over or
on public property and pertaining solely to festival,
spectacle or other similar events of a general service
and public nature, conducted within the City;
(f)
Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings and date
of erection when cut into any masonry surface;
(g)
Signs of public service companies indicating danger and
aids to service or safety;
(h)
Signs on private property in connection with political
campaigns or with public health, safety and welfare
campaigns or patriotic or special events of general
public interest.
20.76-4
Real Estate and Development Signs.
(1)
General Standards. All such signs:
(A) Shall be erected parallel to the street upon
which they face.
(B)
Shall not be illuminated, directly or
indirectly.
(C) Shall not be banners.
(D)
Shall contain only the words "For Sale", "For
Rent", "For Lease" or words of similar import
and the name, address and telephone number of
the person to contact in connection therewith
and whether the person to be contacted is the
owner or broker, or the name(s) of the
architect, contractor or other firm
participating in the development of the site
on which the sign is located.
Shall only be allowed to be placed upon the
property by either the owner or by a person
having the written authority to do so. Ail
such signs shall be maintained in continuous
good order and repair.
(F)
Such signs shall be constructed of a
permanent material which will not deteriorate
from weather.
(G)
Shall be removed within fifteen days after
close of escrow, rental or lease has been
accomplished.
(H)
Shall be located entirely within the
property.
(2)
Residentially Zoned Property. Each parcel is
permitted one sign, not exceeding four square feet
in area.
(3) Non-Residentially Zoned Property.
(A)
Developed Sites. Each parcel is permitted
one sign, not exceeding six square feet in
area, unless:
(i)
The parcel is located in a commercial
zoning district and has one hundred
linear feet or more of public street
20.76-5
frontage and at least one or more acres
in site area in which case one sign not
exceeding twenty square feet or two
signs each not exceeding ten square feet
in area is permitted, or
(ii) The parcel is located in an industrial
zoning district, and has one hundred
linear feet or more of public street
frontage and at least one or more acres
in site area in which case one sign not
exceeding fifty square feet or two signs
each not exceeding twenty-five square
feet in area are permitted.
(B)
Undeveloped Sites. Each parcel is permitted
one sign not exceeding twenty-eight square
feet in area, however, where such parcel is
larger than three acres in size, two such
signs may be placed thereon if at least five
hundred feet apart. All contiguous parcels
of real property owned by the same owner
shall be deemed to be one single parcel of
real property.
(k)
Temporary Window Signs. Temporary window signs such as
those of light cardboard or paper affixed to the inside
of the window of a commercial establishment which
announce the availability of goods or services,
provided they occupy no more than 15 percent of
ground-floor window area. The area of such signs need
not be included in the total permissible sign area for
the building.
(1) Courtesy Display Signs. Wall or window signs occupying
no more than four square feet of sign area and
containing appurtenant sign copy which includes, as a
courtesy to patrons of an enterprise, items such as
credit cards accepted, menus, redemption stamps or
directories, may be maintained at each entrance to a
business from a public way.
Section 20.76.100 Prohibited Signs. The following signs shall
not be permitted, erected or maintained within the City of South
San Francisco, except to the extent specifically permitted by
this chapter:
(a) Unsafe. Any sign or sign structure which:
(1) is structurally unsafe, or
20.76-6
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(2)
constitutes a hazard to safety or health by reason
of inadequate maintenance or dilapidation.
Electric Power Line Conflicts. Any sign which does not
comply with all of the provisions of this chapter or
which has less horizontal or vertical clearance from
energized electric power lines than that prescribed by
the California Public Utilities Code, the regulations
of the California Public Utilities Commission, and the
orders of the California Division of Industrial Safety,
as now in force and as hereafter amended.
Signs on Residential Property. Any sign of any nature,
except those signs specifically exempted by Section
20.76.090, upon any lot or parcel of land which is
restricted by Title 20 to residential purposes.
Illuminated Signs. Any sign with lights or
illuminations which flash, move, rotate, scintillate,
blink, flicker, reflect, vary in intensity, vary in
color, or use intermittent electrical pulsations.
Obstructions and Distractions to Motorists.
which:
Any sign
in any way obstructs the view of, may be confused
with, or purports to be an official traffic sign,
signal or device, or any other official sign, or
(2)
creates in any way an unsafe distraction for motor
vehicle operators, or
(3)
obstructs the view of motor vehicle operators
entering a public roadway from any parking area,
service drive, alley, or other thoroughfare.
Obstruction of Ingress and Egress. Any sign which
obstructs any door, window, or fire escape. No sign
shall be attached to a standpipe, gutter drain, or fire
escape.
Signs on Public Property. No person shall paint, mark,
or write on, or post or otherwise affix any handbill or
sign to or upon any sidewalk, crosswalk, curb,
curbstone, street lamp post, hydrant, tree, shrub, tree
stake or guard, post, railroad crossing, electric light
or power or telephone or telegraph pole, or wire
appurtenance thereof, or upon any fixture of the fire
alarm or police communications system, or upon any
lighting system, public bridge, public building or
wall, drinking fountain, street sign, or traffic sign
or any other public place. Signs or handbills posted
20.76-7
by a public officer or public employee in the perform-
ance of a public duty are an exception to the stated
prohibition.
(h)
Parking of Vehicles for Advertising. No person shall
park any vehicle within the public right-of-way or in a
location on public or private property which is visible
from a public thoroughfare for the purpose of
advertising goods or services. Any parked vehicle
which has attached to it or suspended from it any
advertising sign shall be presumed to be parked for
advertising purposes. A vehicle which has a sign
printed directly upon or permanently affixed to the
body or other integral part of the vehicle for
permanent identification or decoration is not subject
to this prohibition.
(i)
Off-Premises Signs. To the extent allowed by law, with
the exception of off-premises signs legally in
existence at the time of adoption of this chapter,
off-premises signs are prohibited. Any off-premises
sign which is permitted by this chapter shall not be
altered by expanding its sign area, increasing its
height, changing from a non-illuminated to an
illuminated sign, or increasing the area or intensity
of its existing illumination without first obtaining
the required permit. Removal of legally erected off-
premises signs shall be in accordance with the Business
and Professions Code Section 5412 et seq.
Section 20.76.110 Maintenance. Each sign shall be maintained
by the owner thereof in a clean, sanitary, attractive and
inoffensive condition. Freestanding signs shall be free and
clean of all obnoxious substances, rubbish, and weeds. Ail signs
shall be maintained in a neat and orderly condition at all times.
Section 20.76.120 Permissible Sian Area. In order to maintain
flexibility and encourage creativity in the design of signs, each
independent business establishment or each multi-tenant facility
sign or complex with a sign program may be allowed the following
size sign, subject to the approval of the required sign permit as
required in Table 20.76.130:
(a)
Every ground-floor single-tenant business establishment
is permitted up to one and one-half square feet of sign
area for every linear foot of lot frontage, except that
no establishment shall be limited to less than twenty-
five square feet or permitted more than three hundred
square feet.
20.76-8
(b)
Every multi-tenant facility or complex with a sign
program is permitted up to two square feet of sign area
for every linear foot of lot frontage, except that no
such facility or complex shall be limited to less than
fifty square feet or permitted more than three hundred
square feet.
The total sign area allowance may be divided between a free-
standing and an attached sign.
In the event that a business has frontage on two or more public
streets, the owner may determine which frontage shall be used to
compute the permitted sign area. In such case, the total sign
area permitted may be one hundred twenty-five percent of the
permitted sign area. The maximum sign area to be placed on any
building face, however, is one hundred percent of the permitted
area.
Section 20.76.130 Permissible Sign Heiqht. Sign height
regulations are established in Table 20.76.130. All freestanding
signs with an overall height exceeding 10'0" shall require a Type
C Permit, according to the provisions of this chapter.
Section 20.76.140 Multi-Tenant Facilities. Multi-tenant
facilities, such as shopping centers, planned developments, and
buildings with more than one tenant require comprehensive sign
programs for the entire site. Sign programs may contain the
following: signs which identify the entire facility, called
facility identification or master signs; signs which list all the
businesses within the facility, called directory signs; and
individual signs identifying each separate ground-floor tenant
space, called tenant signs. Each site is permitted one master
sign and one directory sign at each entrance from a public
street. Internal traffic and directional signs are not counted
in the computation of permitted sign area. Tenant signs and
master signs shall be designed to'relate in terms of style,
materials, colors, etc. Individual tenants are entitled only to
that amount and type of signage specified in the comprehensive
sign program.
Section 20.76.150 General Si~n Standards. The following sign
standards apply to all signs as they occur in any location.
(a) Freestanding Signs.
(1)
Bracing, Anchorage and Supports. Supporting pole
or poles shall be installed in the ground on
private property.
(2)
Projection Over Public Property. No freestanding
sign shall project over or into public property.
20.76-9
Table 20.76.130
Physical Classification
of Signs and Criteria A
1. Individual Business Establishments
Maximum Height - 6 ft or
Freestanding Sign less
Criteria for Determining ~re~ Sign Permit
25 sf or
less
Maximum surface area
(each sign)
Multi-Tenant Facility (Sign Program)
Maximum Height - N/A
Freestanding Sign
N/A
Total maximum surface
area (each sign)
A
Ail
Physical Classification
of Signs and Criteria
3. Temporary Signs
(Other than window
signs)
B
C
more than 6
ft, less
than 10 ft
more than
25 sf, less
than 100 sf
10 ft or
more, less
than 20 ft
100 sf or
more, less
than 300 sf
10 ft or
less
100 sf or
less
more than
10 ft, less
than 20 ft
100 sf or
more, less
than 300 sf
B
C
N/A
To exceed
maximum
time
permitted
in Section
20.76.160.
4. Roof Signs
As per-
mitted in
Section
20.76.150
(b)(3)
within size
limitations
Ail other
roof signs.
5. Canopy/Awning Signs
5 sf or
less on
existing
structures.
30 sf or
less on new
structures;
more than 5
sf, less
than 30 sf
on existing
structures.
more than
30 sf, less
than 100
sf.
N/A = not applicable
(b)
(3)
Although there is no required setback from the
property line for freestanding signs, setbacks for
specific signs may be established if necessary for
traffic visibility, safety, or design consider-
ations.
(4)
No single-pole freestanding pole sign greater than
ten feet in height is permitted.
Attached Signs-Height and Projection Over Public
Property. No projecting sign, except as otherwise
specifically provided by this chapter, shall be erected
further than six inches from the face of the wall to
which it is attached, measuring from the point of the
sign nearest to the wall, nor shall any such sign or
part thereof project more than forty-eight inches over
public property. No attached sign shall project above
the building face upon which it is attached.
(1)
Barber Poles. Barber poles may be affixed to the
face of a building at the entrance of a barber-
shop; barber poles so affixed shall have a
clearance above the sidewalk of not less than
eight feet, and shall project not more than one
foot from the face of the building.
(2) Individual Letter Signs.
Projection Over Public Property. Signs
attached flat on the face of a building wall
may project over public property a distance
not to exceed twelve inches.
(B)
Area. The area of such signs made of
individual letters shall be the actual area
of the wall covered by the individual letters
and/or images.
(3)
Roof Signs.
either:
Roof signs shall be permitted only
(A)
On a peaked, mansard or shed roof, placed in
such a manner that the highest point on the
sign shall be no higher than the lowest
two-thirds of the roof height and providing
that the vertical dimension of the sign shall
be no greater than one-third the vertical
dimension of the roof, or
20.76-10
This diagram is Illustrative
-~nly and is not part of the
zming grdJnmce.
~S~se~iofl 20.76. lSO(b)(3)(A)
Placement and Dimensions of Roof Signs on Peaked, Mansard, or Shed Roofs
Placement
The height of a roof sign shall not exceed
two-thirds (2x) of the vertical dimension of
the roof from cave line to peak (3x).
Dimensions
The length of the roof sign shall not exceed
one-third (y) of the length of the roof o~
which it is placed (3y). The height of the
roof sign shall not exceed one-third (x) of
the vertical dimension of the roof from
cave line to peek (3x).
anly and is not pQrt of the
l'"~imt ordinam:e.
Figure
S~:4ectior~ ~0.76.~S0(b)(3)(B)
Permisdble Height of Signs off P~'apet
Wdls ~ F Iai Roofs,
PARAPET WALL
(4)
(5)
(B)
On a building with a flat or substantially
flat roof, signs which are attached to the
roof facia parallel to the front wall of the
building may not exceed the height of the
roof. In the case of a building with a
parapet wall, a sign may be attached to such
a wall provided that it does not extend above
the highest point of said wall.
Exceptions to the above limitations may be granted
only with a Type C Permit.
Canopy and Awning Signs. A sign may be affixed to
a canopy, marquee, or awning even though such
canopy, marquee, or awning projects over public
property provided, however, that any such sign
meets the following requirement:
No individual sign copy area on any sign face
of any such sign shall exceed one hundred
square feet in area. In the case of two sign
copy areas which are equal in size and
located parallel to each other such that the
two areas cannot be viewed simultaneously,
only one such sign copy area shall be
included in the total permissible sign area.
For signs proposed on new canopies and awnings,
the design of the structure is subject to review
in conjunction with the sign.
Shingle Signs. Shingle signs shall be
non-illuminated, and no more than three inches
thick.
(A)
Area. No such sign shall exceed six square
feet in area.
(B)
Height. No part of any such sign shall
exceed a height of ten feet nor shall any
part of such sign extend above the top level
of the wall upon or in front of which it is
situated. The bottom edge of such a sign
shall be at least eight feet above any
sidewalk.
(c)
Projection Over Public Property. No such
sign shall project more than three feet over
public property.
20.76-11
(D)
Number. There may be no more than one such
sign for each place of business for each
building face.
(6)
Permanent Painted Window Signs. Window signs
which consist of lettering painted directly onto a
window with permanent non-water-soluble paint or
applied with pre-cut lettering are allowed,
provided that the sign copy area occupies no more
than thirty percent of ground-floor window space
and that the highest point of such sign copy area
is located no more than twelve feet above grade.
The area of such signs shall be included in the
total permissible sign area for the building.
(c)
Illuminated Sign Limitations. When reflectors,
spotlights, or other devices of light are used, the
illumination upon the area of the sign shall be
concentrated in such a way as to minimize glare on
streets or adjacent property.
Section 20.76.160 TemDorar~ Signs. Temporary signs as
regulated by this chapter shall include any sign, banner,
balloon, pennant, valance or advertising display constructed of
cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard or other light
materials, with or without frames, to be displayed for no more
than thirty days within a one-year period.
(a)
Support and Attachment. Every temporary sign shall be
attached in a manner approved by the Chief Building
Inspector.
(b) Permits.
(1)
Temporary signs shall require a Type A Sign Permit
to authorize the erection of the signs and their
maintenance for a maximum of thirty days per
calendar year. Not more than one such sign will
be allowed for each place of business.
(2)
The individual issuing a Type A Sign Permit for a
temporary sign may order such signs removed if, in
his opinion, the temporar~ signs create a hazard
or public nuisance.
Section 20.76.170 Special Circumstances. Unusual site
conditions, locations, particular unique signing requirements, or
other design factors may warrant types, heights, and sizes of
signs not otherwise permitted by the regulations of this chapter.
Such signs, including but not limited to the following, shall
require a Type C Permit:
20.76-12
(a)
Roof signs which extend above the highest point on the
roof or of the type not allowed by Section 20.76.150.
(b)
Any individual sign, or co~%bination of all signs on any
one property, which exceeds the height or area
limitations prescribed in this chapter.
(c)
Time and temperature signs, or any other signs which
incorporate a changeable electronic message.
(d) Readerboard signs or other signs with changeable copy,
including theatre marquees.
(e)
Signs in the D-C Zone District which are of a classic
design style, consistent with those designed and
erected in the 1940's and 1950's.
(f)
Signs in the E1 Camino Real, Airport/South Airport
Boulevard, and Highway 101 corridor areas which have
special sign needs due to the regional nature of the
use, the traveler-oriented nature of the use, or other
special requirements.
Application to the Planning Commission shall include reasons or
exceptional circumstances which warrant consideration for
exceeding the prescribed standards (e.g. nonconforming
structures, visual obstruction, unusual building location, etc.).
The Planning Commission may approve, conditionally approve,
modify, or deny a request. The decision of the Planning
Commission may be appealed to the City Council.
Section 20.76.180 Removal of Nonconforming Signs WhichBecame
Nonconforming On or After March 12, 1983. All on-premises signs
legally in existence when erected, which subsequently become
nonconforming under the provisions of this title, shall be altered
to conform, where possible and with the appropriate permit, or shall
be removed from the property subject to the provisions of the
Business and Professions Code Section 5490 et seq.
Section 20.76.190 Nonconforming Siqns - Alterations Permitted.
Alterations to permanent, on-site signs which became noncon-
forming to the provisions of this chapter, may be made only
subject to the following conditions:
(a)
No change of copy shall be permitted on a noncon-
forming sign except for outdoor advertising structures,
theater bills, reader boards and other such signs
designed to have individual letters, numbers, or
figures removed and replaced and except as provided in
subsection (e).
20.76-13
lilT
(b)
Except as provided in subparagraph (c), no noncon-
forming sign shall be altered or moved unless such
alteration or moving reduces the degree of noncon-
formity. "Alter" shall not be construed to prevent
normal or periodic maintenance, upkeep, or repair of a
sign.
(c)
A nonconforming sign may be removed from the building
or structure to which it is attached for purposes of
repair providing it is returned to the same place from
which it was removed within fourteen (14) days after
removal, and further providing there is no increase in
size or change of copy.
(d)
Any repair, alteration or change to any nonconforming
sign as permitted by this subsection shall not alter
the amortization schedule for such sign as set forth in
Section 20.76.180.
(e)
The copy on a nonconforming sign identifying a multi-
tenant facility may be changed if the sign structure
contains the names of more than one tenant and a tenant
changes.
Section 20.76.200 Exemption From Re~uiredRemoval/Alteration:
Classic Siuns. Certain signs which reflect the unique historical
characteristics of the development and heritage of South San
Francisco may be exempt from the provisions of Section 20.76.180
if the Planning Commission determines that they are Classic
Signs. A Classic Sign Permit is a discretionary permit. When a
Classic Sign Permit is approved, its approval certifies that the
sign satisfies all applicable provisions of this section.
Approval of a Classic Sign Permit authorizes the sign to remain,
subject to continued maintenance, until the use of the site on
which the sign is located changes.
(a)
Classic Sign Permit Application. Classic Sign Permit
applications shall include the forms provided by the
Planning Division and the materials required therein.
(b)
Classic Sign Permit Review and Approval. The Planning
Commission shall review and approve, conditionally
approve, or disapprove an application for a Classic
Sign Permit. Classic Sign Permit application,
review,and approval shall follow the procedure
established for use permits in Chapter 20.81, except
that the required findings for the granting of a use
permit shall not apply. The decision of the Planning
Commission may be appealed to the City Council.
20.76-14
(¢)
(d)
Required Findings for Existing Signs. No Classic Sign
Permit shall be approved for an existing sign unless
the following finaings are made:
(1)
The sign existed at the effective date of this
ordinance and was originally erected at least
thirty years prior to the date of the application.
(2)
The sign is structurally sound and complies with
the provisions of the current building and
associated codes. A report from the Chief
Building Inspector shall be required.
(3)
The design of the sign is endemic to the period in
which it was built, is consistent with the
structures on the site, and complements the unique
characteristics of South San Francisco.
(4)
The sign is well maintained. Continued
maintenance shall be a condition of approval of
the permit.
(5)
Retaining the sign will not result in visual
clutter or blight and will not adversely affect
the adjoining properties.
Revocation. The permit shall be subject to revocation
if the sign is altered.
20.76-15
EXHIBIT A TO ORDINANCE.-NO. 1015-87
~ 20,86
SIGN PERMIT PROCEDORE
Sections:
20.86.010
20.86. 020
20.86.030
20.86.040
20.86.050
20.86. 060
Sign Permits Required.
Sign Permit Determination
Type A Sign Permit.
Type B Sign Permit.
Type C Sign Permit.
Section 20.86.010 Purpose. Chapter 20.86 establishes the Sign
Permit Procedure. The purpose of these provisions is to provide a
procedure for obtaining the sign permits required by this title.
Section 20.86.020 Si~n Permits Required. Unless otherwise
exempted by the provisions of this title, all signs within South
San Francisco shall require either a Type A, B, or C Sign Permit.
No person shall erect, move, alter, change, repair, replace,
suspend, or attach any sign or any portion thereof without first
obtaining the necessary permit. Changes of sign copy, except on
signs designed for changeable copy, shall require a new permit.
Section 20.86.030 sign Permit Determination. To determine
which type of permit is required by a particular sign, classify
the sign according to its function and structure, according to
Chapter 20.76. Next, consult Table 20.76.130, which lists by row
the functional and structural categories of signs. In the event
that the physical characteristics of an individual sign cause it
to fall within more than one permit type category, the entire
sign shall require the permit, which provides for the higher
level of review. (Example: If a sign's characteristics fall
within both the Type A and Type B permits, it shall require a
Type B permit.)
Section 20.86.040 Type A Sign Permit. A Type A Sign Permit is
a ministerial permit. When a Type A Sign Permit is required by
this title to authorize a sign, its approval certifies that the
sign satisfies all applicable provisions of this title. Approval
of a Type A Sign Permit enables the issuance of a Building Permit
under Title 15 of this Code.
(a)
Type A Sign Permit Application. Type A Sign Permit
applications shall include the forms provided by the
Planning Division and the materials required therein.
20.86-1
I T IF
Permit Review and Approval. The Planning Director
shall review and approve, conditionally approve, or
disapprove an application for a Type A Sign Permit.
The decision of the Director may be appealed to the
Planning Commission as provided by Chapter 20.90. The
decision of the Planning Commission shall be final. A
Type A Sign Permit application shall be approved only
when it meets all of the following standards:
{1)
Ail General Sign Standards set in Section
20.76.150.
(2)
Specific sign standards pertaining to height, and
surface area in square feet listed for Type A
permits in Table 20.76.130.
Section 20.86.050 TFDe B Si~n Permit. A Type B Sign Permit is
a discretionary permit. When a Type B Sign Permit is required by
this title to authorize a sign, its approval certifies that the
sign satisfies all applicable provisions of this title. Approval
of a Type B Sign Permit enables the issuance of a building permit
under Title 15 of this Code.
(a)
TYpe B Sign Permit Application. Type B Sign Permit
applications shall include the forms provided by the
Planning Division and the materials required therein.
(b)
Permit Review and Approval. The Design Review Board
shall review and Planning Director shall approve,
conditionally approve, or disapprove an application for
a Type B Sign Permit. The decision of the Planning
Director may be appealed to the Planning Commission as
provided by Chapter 20.90. The decision of the
Planning Commission shall be final. Type B Sign Permit
application review and approval shall follow the
procedure established for Design Review Applications in
Chapter 20.85, except that guidelines and standards for
design review and approval of a precise plan of design
shall not apply. A Type B Sign Permit shall be
approved only when it meets all of the following
standards:
(1)
Ail general sign standards set in Section
20.76.150.
(2)
Specific sign standards pertaining to height and
surface area in square feet listed for Type B
permits in Table 20.76.130.
(3)
Additional criteria as determined by the Design
Review Board based on its evaluation of the
appropriateness and effectiveness of the sign
20.86-2
within the site and in the wider context of its
surroundings. The primary factors which the Board
will consider in formulating its recommendations are:
(A)
Neighborhood Compatibility. The size,
materials, colors, graphic style,
illumination, and other features of the sign
will be assessed to ensure that it is in
keeping with the visual character of the
street or area in which it is proposed. Pro-
posed new signs should reflect the highest
quality of design possible for a given area.
(B)
Readability. To ensure that signs perfor~
their essential communicative function
appropriately, such characteristics as
the proportion between different parts of the
sign, visibility from important vantage
points, and other design features will
be considered.
(c)
Integration with Architectural Features. In
order to be aesthetically pleasing as well as
effective in communication, signs should be
treated as an integral part of the total
design concept for a given site. Based on
characteristics such as scale relationships,
color, materials, and graphic style, signs
will be assessed in terms of their
compatibility with the forms and themes of
building and landscape design.
(c)
Conditions of Approval. Conditions of approval for a
Type B Sign Permit may include provisions for
modifications or additions to landscaping, on-site
circulation, painting programs, or other site
modifications.
Section 20.86.060 Type C Sian Permits. A Type C sign permit is
a discretionary permit issued by the Planning Commission. When a
Type C sign permit is required by this title to authorize a sign,
its approval certifies the sign satisfies all applicable
provisions of this title. Approval of a Type C sign permit
enables the issuance of a building permit under Title 15 of this
Code.
(a) Type C Sign Permit Application. Type C sign permit
applications shall include the forms provided by the
Planning Division and the materials required therein.
(b) Permit Review and Approval. The Planning Commission
shall review and approve, conditionally approve, or
disapprove an application for a Type C Sign Permit.
20.86-3
Only permits considered in accordance with the
provisions of Section 20.76.170 maybe appealed to the
city Council as provided by Chapter 20.90. The
Planning Commision's decision is final on other Type C
Permits. Type C sign permit application review and
approval shall follow the procedure established for use
permits in Chapter 20.81, except that the required
findings for the granting of a use permit shall not
apply. A Type C sign permit shall be approved only
when it meets all of the following standards:
(1)
Ail general sign standards set in Section
20.76.150.
(2)
Additional criteria as determined by the Planning
Commission based on its evaluation of the
appropriateness and effectiveness of the sign
within the site and in the wider context of its
surroundings. The primary factors which the
commission will'consider in granting or denying a
permit will be:
(A)
Neighborhood Compatibility. The size,
materials, colors, graphic style,
illumination and other features of the sign
will be assessed to ensure that it is in
keeping with the visual character of the
street or area in which it is proposed. Pro-
posed new signs should reflect the highest
quality of design possible for a given area.
(B)
Readability. To ensure that signs perform
their essential communicative function
appropriately, such characteristics as
the proportion between different parts of the
sign, visibility from important vantage
points, and other design features will
be considered.
(c)
Integration with Architectural Features. In
order to be aesthetically pleasing as well as
effective in communication, signs should be
treated as an integral part of the total
design concept for a given site. Based on
characteristics such as scale relationships,
color, materials, and graphic style, signs
will be assessed in terms of their
compatibility with the forms and themes of
building and landscape design.
20.86-4
(c)
(D)
The recommendations of the Design Review
Board.
Special circumstances, if applicable, which
may warrant consideration under the
provisions of Section 20.76.170.
Conditions of Approval. Conditions of approval for a
Type C Sign Permit may include provisions for
modifications or additions to landscaping, on-site or
off-site circulation, painting programs, or other site
modifications.
20.86-5
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA
ORDINANCE SUMMARY
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING TITLE 17 AND AMENDING
TITLE 20 OF THE SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO MUNICIPAL
CODE TO ADD CHAPTER 20.76 AND CHAPTER 20.86
PERTAINING TO THE REGULATIONS OF SIGNS
1. SUMMARY.
A. This ordinance represents a comprehensive revision to the City's
Sign Regulations and Procedures. and will affect all signs in the City. This
ordinance implements the policies in the General Plan. This ordinance repeals
the existing Title 17 and adds the sign provisions to Title 20 of the South San
Francisco Municipal Code.
B. The ordinance enacts two chapters:
(1) Chapter 20.76, Sign Regulations. This chapter includes provisions
for code compliance and enforcement, obsolete signs, exempted signs, prohibited
signs, and sign maintenance. This chapter also includes standards for permissible
sign area, sign height, projection, location, and methods of attachment. Sign
programs are required for multi-tenant facilities. Provisions for temporary
signs and classic signs are incorporated. Amortization schedules are adopted
for nonconforming signs.
(2) Chapter 20.86, Sign Permit Procedures. This chapter explains under
what circumstances sign permits are required. There are three different types of
sign permits: Type A, Type B, and Type C. Signs require different permits based
on their size, height, and type. The different permit types have different
approval processes. Under this chapter, either by way of appeal or direct appli-
cation, all sign permit decisions except those related to "classic signs" and
"special circumstances" are final with the Planning Commission.
36933.
City Attorney.
DATED: March 11, 1987
This Ordinance Sumnary was prepared pursuant to Government Code Section
The City Council ordered preparation of this Ordinance Sunmary by the
/s~ Barbara A. Battaya
City Clerk
CERTIFICATION AND POSTING PRIOR TO ADOPTION.
A certified copy of the full text of this Ordinance is posted in
the office of the City Clerk, City Hall, South San Francisco, California. The
Ordinance was read for the first time on the 11th day of March , 198 7
and is scheduled for second reading and adoption on the 25th day of March
March 13, 1987
/s/ Barbara A. Battaya
City C)erk
198 7 .
DATED:
3. CERTIFICATION AND POSTING AFTER ADOPTION.
This Ordinance was adopted on the 25th day of March ,
198 7 , and a certified copy of the full text, together with the names of the Council
members voting for an~against the Ordinance or otherwise voting, is posted in
the office of the City Clerk.
The vote was recorded as follows:
FOR: Councilmembers John "Jack" Drago, Richard A. Haffey, Gus
Nicolopulos, Roberta Cerri Teglia, and Mark N. Addiego
AGAINST:None
ABSTAINED:None
ABSENT:'None
-2-
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA
ORDINANCE SUMMARY
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING TITLE 17 AND AMENDING
TITLE 20 OF THE SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO MUNICIPAL
CODE TO ADD CHAPTER 20.76 AND CHAPTER 20,86
PERTAINING TO THE REGULATIONS OF SIGNS
1. SUMMARY.
A. This ordinance represents a comprehensive revision to the City's
Sign Regulations and Procedures and will affect all signs in the City. This
ordinance implements the policies in the General Plan. This ordinance repeals
the existing Title 17 and adds the sign provisions to Title 20 of the South San
Francisco Municipal Code.
B. The ordinance enacts two chapters:
(1) Chapter 20.76, Sign Regulations. This chapter includes provisions
for code compliance and enforcement, obsolete signs, exempted signs, prohibited
signs, and sign maintenance. This chapter also includes standards for permissible
sign area, sign height, projection, location, and methods of attachment. Sign
programs are required for multi-tenant facilities. Provisions for temporary
signs and classic signs are incorporated. Amortization schedules are adopted
for nonconforming signs.
(2) Chapter 20.86, Sign Permit Procedures. This chapter explains under
what circumstances sign permits are required. There are three different types of
sign permits: Type A, Type B, and Type C. Signs require different permits based
on their size, height, and type. The different permit types have different
approval processes. Under this chapter, either by way of appeal or direct appli-
cation, all sign permit decisions except those related to "classic signs" and
"special circumstances" are final with the Planning Commission.
C,
36933.
City Attorney.
DATED: March 11, 1987
This Ordinance Summary was prepared pursuant to Government Code Section
The City Council ordered preparation of this Ordinance Summary by the
2. CERTIFICATION AND POSTING PRIOR TO ADOPTION.
A certified copy of the full text of this Ordinance is posted in
the office of the City Clerk, City Hall, South San Francisco, California. The
Ordinance was read for the first time on the 11th day of March , 1987 ,
and is scheduled for second reading and adoption on the 25th day of March ,
198 7 ·
DATED: March 13, 1987
3. CERTIFICATION AND POSTING AFTER ADOPTION.
This Ordinance was adopted on the 25th day of March
1987 , and a certified copy of the full text, together with the names of the Council
members voting for an~against the Ordinance or otherwise voting, is posted in
the office of the City Clerk.
The vote was recorded as follows:
FOR: Councilmembers John "Jack" Drago, Richard A. Haffey, Gus
Nicolopulos, Roberta Cerri Teglia, and Mark N. Addiego
AGAINST: None
ABSTAINED: None
ABSENT: None
-2-
CITY CLERK'S CERTIFICATIONS
1. Prior to Adoption.
I, BARBARA A, BATTAYA, City Clerk of the City of South San Francisco,
CERTIFY that on the 18th day of March , 19 87 , 7 days
prior to the City Council meeting set for the 25th day of March ,
19 87 , when this Ordinance was scheduled for adoption (1) the Summary was
published and circulated in said City, and (2) a certified copy of the full
text of this Ordinance was posted in my office, all in accordance with
Government Code Section 36933.
DATED: 3-13-87
2. After Adoption:
I, BARBARA A. BATTAYA, City Clerk of the City of South San Francisco,
CERTIFY that this Ordinance was adopted on the 25th day of March ·
19 87 , and on the 4th day of April , 19 87 , 10 days
thereafter (1) the Summary of this Ordinance, a copy of which is attached
hereto as Exhibit A , was published in the "Enterprise-Journal", a news-
paper of general circulation published and circulated in said City, and (2)
a certified copy of this Ordinance, with the names of those City Council
members voting for or against this Ordinance, or otherwise voting, was posted
in my office, all in accordance with Government Code Section 36933.
DATED:
March 26, 1987
City Clerk
-3-