HomeMy WebLinkAbout08/17/2004, PH3 - CONSIDERATION OF THE ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION'S RECOMMENDATION TO APPROVE A NEGATIVE DECLARA j ac En as Report �N 3
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
FROM. John Mandeville,Community Development Direct
Prepared By: Tyler Corey, Associate Planner
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF THE 'ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION'S
RECOMMENDATION TO APPROVE A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT (ER 26-04) AND ADOPT TEXT
AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY'S SIGN REGULATIONS (TA 26-04).
CAO RECOMMENDATION
As recommended by the Architectural Review Commission, repeal existing Chapter 15.40 (Sign
Regulations) of the San Luis Obispo Municipal Code in its entirety and introduce an ordinance
adding new Chapter 15.40 (Sign .Regulations) to ,the San.Luis Obispo Municipal Code and .
adopting a Negative Declaration of environmental impact (ER 26-04).
DISCUSSION
Data Summary
Address: No specific address
Applicant: City of San"Luis Obispo
Zoning: All zoning districts .
General Plan: All Land Use Element designations
Environmental Status: A Negative Declaration was recommended by the Deputy Director of
Community Development on March 16, 2004 (ER 26-04).
Situation
Consistent with on-going efforts to update and improve various development regulations, the
Community Development Department prepared a draft update to the City's Sign Regulations.
The goals of the update are to stay current with First Amendment laws and promote more
guidelines and graphic examples of preferred signs to make the regulations more user friendly.
Changes to the sign standards for the various zoning districts (i.e. sign location, number per
tenant space, and allowable types and sizes) are not being proposed with this update.
Over the past several months, the draft update was extensively reviewed by the Architectural
Review Commission (ARC) at a series of meetings beginning with a special kick-off meeting on
March 1, 2004 (see Attachment 1 including minutes from 3-1-04,4-5-04,4-19-04 & 6-7-04). On
June 7, 2004, the ARC endorsed the document shown in Attachment 2. Since this meeting, staff
has completed a revised draft of the Sign Regulations taking into account the Commission's
Council Agenda Report—TA/ER 26-04
August 17,2004
Page 2
comments. The revised update is now before the City Council for formal adoption. A copy of
this document has been provided to the Council for reference.
Typically, legislative drafts of ordinance text amendments are provided to the Council for
review. Due to the extensive format modifications proposed with the Draft Sign Regulations, it
became apparent through the ARC review process that the legislative draft added confusion,
rather than providing clarification of the proposed amendments. Therefore, the update to the
Sign Regulations is being presented to the Council in a format ready for adoption. Staff is
proposing that the Council repeal the existing Sign Regulations Chapter 15.40 of the Municipal
Code in its entirety and add a new Sign Regulations Chapter 15.40.
Purpose of the Sign Regulations Update
A. Legally Defensible Regulations
The last update to the Sign Regulations occurred in July of 1997. Since this time, various
communities throughout the country have experienced legal challenges to their sign regulations
based on constitutional First Amendment grounds related to free speech rights. As a result,case
law has dictated the need for municipalities to develop sign ordinances that have clear and
expressly stated goals, are content neutral and do not contain vague terms and expressions that
are applied inconsistently. Accordingly, Articles I and IV of the updated Sign Regulations have
been extensively revised. Article I clearly indicates the City's intent and purpose of the Sign
Regulations, which specifically states that sign content will not be used as a basis for.determining
whether or not a proposed sign may.he permitted. Article IV separates guidelines, which contain
language such as "should" or "in general", from standards for the various sign types. In addition,
various other modifications were made throughout the draft update to provide consistency with
the revised purpose and intent. Based on this information, staff, with direction from the ARC,'
has taken a proactive step in updating the Sign Regulations to be defensible, should they ever be
legally challenged.
B. Palette of Preferred Sign Types
The update reformats the Sign Regulations to group sign standards by sign type, as opposed to
zoning districts. Currently, standards relating to specific sign types are found in various locations
throughout the Sign Regulations. Article IV of the update consolidates the sign standards (i.e.
location, number, size, illumination, zoning) for each sign type in one convenient section without
changing the types of signs allowed in the City's various zoning districts.
C. Signage Guidelines
Signage is an important design component and contributes to the sense of place in our
commercial districts and along the City's various traffic corridors. Currently, the Sign
Regulations provide for some limited design direction at various locations in the ordinance.
Council Agenda Report—TA/ER 26-04
August 17,2004
Page 3
Article IV of the proposed document expands on the guidelines for each specific sign type and
clearly differentiates between guidelines and standards. This provides for clearer direction to
applicants and is also more legally defensible. Signage guidelines are not intended to be used to
evaluate whether a permit may be issued for a particular sign, but rather to give sign designers a
better understanding of the City's preference for the various sign types. Article V describes how
City staff evaluates whether proposed signage is consistent with the regulations through the sign
permit review process, including possible action by the ARC for project sign programs,
exceptions and certain types of signs.
D. User Friendly Document
The update was undertaken as an opportunity to express design expectations and regulation in a
more customer friendly format. Modifications proposed to accomplish this goal include: 1)
incorporation of photographs depicting good sign design for the various sign types; 2)
development of a single-page matrix that includes allowable sign types; total number bf signs
allowed and cumulative sign area per premises for the City's various zoning districts; and 3)
consolidation of the sign standards for each specific sign type with the associated signage
guidelines in one convenient section. These modifications are intended to help•sign designers
and manufacturers design and construct signage that meets City standards and improves the ,
aesthetic quality of the City's various zoning districts.
Citizen Participation
Public input and feedback is an essential component to creating regulations:that meet community
needs. In an effort to engage stakeholders early in the document review process, cover letters
with copies of the Draft Sign Regulations were sent to the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown
Association, Josephine Malone and seventeen sign manufacturers located throughout the County.
In addition, staff conducted a special presentation outlining the purpose and intent of the Sign
Regulations Update before the Chamber of Commerce on November 6, 2003. A copy of the
draft document was also posted on the Community Development Department webpage for public
review.
Copies of the minutes from the various meetings where the Draft Sign Regulations were
discussed are attached, which include comments from members of the public. Attachment 3
includes a letter from the Chamber of Commerce with some suggestions that were discussed at
the April 5, 2004, ARC meeting. The document has been modified, as directed by the ARC, to
respond to the Chamber of Commerce's comments. Attachment 4 includes a letter from Sean
Beauchamp, Southpaw Sign Company, which discusses sign size bonuses for architectural
quality. Although the concept of providing incentives to applicants to design and construct high
quality signage can be effective, staff and the ARC agreed this approach would be highly
subjective and had the potential to create interpretation inconsistencies for the City. Comments
were not received from the other groups that were mailed copies of the Draft Sign Regulations.
3 - 3
Council Agenda Report—TA/ER 26-04
August 17,2004
Page 4
CONCURRENCES
The Draft Sign Regulations were distributed to the Economic Development Manager, Chamber
of Commerce and Downtown Association. The ARC has reviewed comments received on the
Draft Sign Regulations and has made modifications to the document as determined appropriate.
FISCAL IMPACT
When the General Plan was prepared, it was accompanied by a fiscal impact analysis, which
found that overall the General Plan was fiscally balanced. The proposed Sign Regulation
amendments are not expected to change the economic use of the underlying land. The
amendments will have a neutral fiscal impact because they are minor and are intended to
reinforce existing General Plan policies and sign standards.
...ALTERNATIVES :. . .., -....
1. Continue the project with direction to staff if the Council desires further.changes to the
document prior to adopting the Sign Regulations.
ATTACHMENTS
1. ARC minutes from 3-1-04, 4-5-04, 4-19-04&. 6-7-04
2. Follow-up memo regarding 6-7-04 ARC discussion of Draft Sign Regulations
. 3. Letter from the Chamber of Commerce dated April 2, 2004
4. Letter from Sean Beauchamp, Southpaw Sign Company, dated April 16, 2004 .
5. Initial Study ER 26-04
6. Draft ordinance repealing Chapter 15.40 (Sign Regulations) in its entirety and adding new
Chapter 15.40 (Sign Regulations) to the San Luis Obispo Municipal Code
Available Upon Request:
1. Existing Sign Regulations,July 1997.
G`.\tcorey\Sign Regulations Update\TA 26-04 Council rpt(08-17-04 meeting).doc
ARC Minutes Attachment
March 1, 2004
Page 2
mr. Stevenson noted that a letter had been received from Alex and Ann Goth, 964
Cho Street, supporting the project, which was read into the record.
There were n her comments made from the public.
COMMISSION COMM S:
Commr. Howard moved the sta ommendation. Seconded-by Commr. Root.
The Commission discussed City policies at support the proposed installation and
discussed the visibility of the collectors from t urrounding streets. The Commission
determined that future development of the adjacent erty would make it unlikely that
visibility would be an issue.
AYES: Commrs. Wilhelm, Root, Boudreau, Howard, Lopes, ith and Stevenson
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The motion carried on a 7:0 vote. r..
2. City Wide. TA/ER 26-04; Review of modifications to the City's Sign Regulations,
and environmental review; City of San Luis Obispo, applicant. (Tyler Corey)
Associate Planner Michael Codron presented the staff report by means of an in-depth
PowerPoint presentation. The goal of this meeting was to discuss ,and agree on the
purpose and scope for the update process, review and discuss Articles] -111 of the Sign
Regulations Update (I General Provisions; II Exempt Signs and III Prohibited Signs),
schedule a subsequent meeting date to review and discuss Articles.IV. X, and provide
any other preliminary comments and/or direction to staff on the Sign Regulations
Update.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Sean Beecham, South Paw Sign Company, expressed his opinion that San Luis Obispo
has one of the best Sign Programs he has ever worked with. He noted that in
historically significant areas, signs are being regulated to the extent that they are not
noticed. He explained problems he has had throughout the state with very restrictive
sign programs that do not allow national or corporate logos that don't fit within those
restrictions, size restrictions, and the historical value of neon. He also noted that some
cities offer a "bonus" in size for more attractive signs. He offered copies of several
cities' sign programs for review by the Commission.
There were no other public comments.
3 -�
ARC Minutes Attachment 1
March 1, 2004
Page 3
COMMISSION COMMENTS:
The ARC reviewed the first three chapters of the Draft Sign Regulations and provided
direction to staff on additional information needed.
There was much discussion on sign clutter and whether it should be addressed in the
Sign Regulations or the Design Guideline, temporary signs, and window signs. Article
III created discussion on vehicle signage, flashing signs or messages, roof signs,
banners, billboards, determination of obscene signs and public art.
It was the consensus of the Commission to complete review the Sign Regulations at the
April 5th meeting. No formal action was taken.
1095 Marsh Street. ARC 15-03 Review of public art at Chinese Garden.; C-D zone;
ity of San Luis Obispo, applicant. (Buzz Kalkowskl)
Associa Planner Michael Codron presented the staff report recommending the
Commissio rant approval to the proposed Chinese bell, based on the finding that it is
consistent wit he City's criteria for public art, and subject to conditions, and to grant
approval to the a gate design, based on findings.
Alice Loh, applicant's resentative, spoke in support of the project::and gave a brief
presentation on the reque
'PUBUC.COMMENT:
There were no public comments.
COMMISSION COMMENTS:
The Commission supported the proposed pub art for the Chinese Garden. The
discussion focused on the mounting of the propose ell and the details of the proposed
gateway.
Commr. Howard moved the staff recommendation with a dition that would require
the bell hammer to be locked to prevent unwanted ringing o he bell and that the
applicant consider using additional design details to enhance the tal suivort posts of
the gateway. Seconded by Commr. Boudreau.
AYES: Commrs. Wilhelm, Root, Boudreau, Howard, Lopes, Smith an Stevenson
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The motion carried on a 7:0 vote..
,� ' LP
Attachment 1
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES
APRIL 5, 2004
'ROLL CALL:
Pres t: Commissioners Greg Wilhelm, Allen Root, Michael Boudreau, Zeljka
Howard, Jim Lopes, David Smith, and Chairperson Charles Stevenson
Absent: one
Staff: Ass iate Planner Tyler Corey and Senior Planner Pam Ricci
SWEARING IN:
City Clerk Lee Price swore reappointed Commissioner Michael Boudreau.
ACEPTANCE OF THE AGEND _,..... . . . _:.. ._ ... ..... . ._
The agenda was accepted as presen
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA EMS:
Mary Beth Schroeder, 2085 Wilding Lane, com 'mented the ARC for their work they do
and expressed her support that Commissioner Bo reau was reappointed.
There were no further comments made from the public.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. 286 California Boulevard. ARC 94-03; Architectural revi of a proposed 4-unit
residential development; C-N zone; Kevin and Anna Kelso, ap 'cant. Continued to
a date uncertain.
The applicant requested that this item be continued to a date uncertain o that they
could review and possibly revise the scale of the project.
It was the consensus of the Commission to continue this item to a date uncertain
2. Citywide. ER/TA 26-04; Review of modifications to the City's Sign Regulations,
and environmental review; City of San Luis Obispo, applicant.
Senior Planner Pam Ricci gave a brief summary on the Sign Regulations program.
Associate Planner Tyler Corey presented the staff report and explained the goals for
this meeting are to provide any further preliminary comments and/or direction to staff on
3- r)
ARC Minutes
Attachment 1
April 5, 2004
Page 2
Articles I - III of the Draft Sign Regulations; to review and discuss Articles IV - X of the
Draft Sign Regulations; and to schedule a subsequent meeting date to review and
discuss requested document modifications, including research topics, the proposed
Sign Gallery, and requested changes to Articles 1-III.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Pierre Rademaker, Mill Street, voiced concern with the definitions section and types of
signs that are listed. He pointed out that the term "freestanding" encompasses a range
of different signs and that the proposed names of some of the sign categories were
misleading. He added that the type of sign described as a "freestanding monument"
was not technically a monument sign. He discussed the sign standards table on page
14 and noted that signs area should not be figured by "premises". He questioned why
the City uses English standards rather than a metric system.
Patricia Wilmore, SLO Chamber of Commerce representative, noted that a letter had
been sent to the Commission and that the issues brought up by Mr: Rademaker were
also pointed out in that letter. She noted the concerns of Bill Thoma, and concerns of
business owners with the.City regulating window displays.
Mark. Rawson, 1028 Peach Street, concurred with the sign standards table referring to
allow areas by tenant, rather than premises. He commented that the language on
awning signs is prohibitive and felt there could be a simpler way to address them.
Mary Beth Schroeder, 2085 Wilding Lane suggested the Sign Regulations be simplified.
Deborah Cash, SLO Downtown Association representative, pointed out that from a Main
Street point of view, signage standards should be flexible enough to allow unique
designs, which tie in with the Main Street philosophy regarding signs.being coordinated
with building design.
Josephine Malone, Arroyo Grande, expressed her opinion that she is being heard at
ARC level, but not at other committees or commissions. She noted the Chamber of
Commerce and Downtown Association have voices that are heard, but hers as a citizen
of the community is being ignored.
Sean Beechum offered some comments regarding sign fabrication.
There were no further comments made from the public.
COMMENT AND DISCUSSION:
The Commission gave individual comments and made suggestions to modify the City's
Sign Regulations.
3 -�
ARC Minutes
Attachment 1
April 5, 2004
Page 3
It was the consensus of the Commission to obtain more information on the window
display regulations before making a decision. Staff agreed to come back with more
information.
It was the unanimous consensus of the Commission to continue discussion of the City
Sign Regulations to the meeting of April 19, 2004. No formal action was taken.
Staff:
A. enda.Forecast:.
Planner Ri i gave an agenda forecast of upcoming projects.
B. Adviso od Roster- each commissioner updated their personal information.
C. UCLA Local Desian Review Seminar-Chairperson Stevenson mentioned there is
a course on ign' and` that the . City ,has offered to send - one or two
commissioners.
4. Commission:
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:
A. The minutes of July 21, August August 18, and September 2, 2003, and
January 5, January 21, and March 1 2004, were accepted as presented, with
minor amendments to the minutes of Ju 1St
ADJOURNMENT:
With no further business before the Commission, the meed adjourned at 8:10 p.m. to
the next regular meeting scheduled for April 19, 2004, in Coun Hearing Room.
Respectfully submitted by
Irene E. Pierce
Recording Secretary
3 - q
ARC Minutes Attachment 1
April 19,2004
Page 4
3. City-wide. TA 26-04; Review of modifications to the City's Sign Regulations; City of
San Luis Obispo, applicant; (Continued from April 5, 2004) (Tyler Corey)
Associate Planner Tyler Corey presented the staff report, asking the Commission to
comment on the draft update to the Draft Sign Regulations (Articles IV-X).
The Commission made their changes to the City's Sign Regulations.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Sean Beechum; Shell Beach, commented on awnings and pole signs and offered the
Commission his perspective.
Mary Beth Schroeder, 2085 Wilding Lane, commented that all sign programs should not
allow inappropriate signs.
There were no further comments made from the public.
COMMISSION COMMENTS:
The Commission made modifications to the Draft Sign Regulations.
It was the consensus of the Commission to continue review of the Draft Sign
Regulations to the meeting of May 17, 2004.
Staff:
A. nda Forecast:
Planner Corey ve an agenda forecast of upcoming projects.
4. Commission;
A. Minutes: The minut of September 15, and October 6, 2003 and February 2,
and February 23, 2004 w accepted as presented.
ADJOURNMENT:
With no further business before the Commissio , he meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m. to
the next regular meeting scheduled for May 3, 20 at 5:00 p.m. in Council Hearing
Room at City Hall, 990 Palm Street.
Respectfully submitted by
Irene E. Pierce
Recording Secretary
3 - [D
Attachment 1
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
MINUTES
June 7, 2004
LL CALL:
Prese Commissioners Allen Root, Michael Boudreau, Zeljka Howard, Jim Lopes,
David Smith, and Chairperson Charles Stevenson
Absent: Cc r. Wilhelm
Staff: Associate nner Tyler Corey
ACEPTANCE OF THE AGEN
The agenda was accepted as amen
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA I S:
Mary Beth Schroeder, 2085 Wilding Lane, expres her opinion of local government
and that the Dalidio property should be developed.
Michele Berry, requested that Item 5 on the agenda be hear t.
The Commission agreed to hear Item 5 first.
There were no further comments made from the public.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. Citywide. TA and ER 26-04; Modifications to the City's Sign Regulations and
environmental review; City of SLO, applicant (Tyler Corey)
Associate Planner Tyler Corey gave a brief update of the Sign Regulations and asked if
the Commission had any additional modifications.
There was.much discussion.on.whether or not murals should be considered as a signs.
The Commission modified the language on roof signage and suggested a Section (J) be
added to the regulations under Roof Signs that address those rare circumstances
where roof signs can be allowed, provided findings found in Section 15.4.60-1,2,3, and
4 can be made.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
There were no comments made from the public.
COMMISSION COMMENTS:
3 - 11
ARC Minutes ^, Attachment 1
June 7, 2004 —
Page 2
Discussion focused on allowing projecting signs in the Tourist Commercial (C-T) zone,
and include language for when and where roof signs may be appropriate and the
required findings for approval.
Commr. Boudreau moved to recommend that the City Council adopt an ordinance
updating the City's Sign Regulations with the following changes: 1) Include proiectinq
si ns as an allowed sign type in the Tourist-Commercial (C-T) zone and 2) Provide
additional language for roof signs on page 30 that states `Roofs having interesting
architectural or unique features may be considered for signs where findings found in
Section 15.40.610.A numbers 2 3 & 4 can be made." Seconded by Commr. Howard.
AYES: Commrs. Boudreau, Howard, Root, Lopes, and Stevenson
NOES: Commr. Smith
ABSENT: Commr. Wilhelm
ABSTAIN: None
The motion carried on a 5:1 vote.
40 Froom Ranch Way. ARC MOD 173-00; Review of modification to an ARC-
p ed design; C-R zone; Costco Wholesale, applicant. (Phil Dunsmore)
Associate Ian r Tyler Corey presented the staff report recommending final approval
to some of t req sted modifications, based on findings, and subject to conditions.
Jeff Wilson, Mulv ey Architects, Belvue, Washington, expressed disagreement
with two items in th rep explained why they requested the modification, and
described the proposed ter Is.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
There were no comments made from ublic.
COMMISSION COMMENTS:
The Commission felt they could approve a of the four requested project
modifications. The proposed terra cotta colored ti ccent band on the east and north
building elevations and change to the column widt s t the front of the building was
supported as submitted. The request to substitute sco oncrete with colored asphalt
at the front of the store and site entry from Froom Ranch a as approved with one of
the proposed colors modified from "slate" to "concrete gr " t lend with color tones
used for pedestrian areas throughout the project. The Cc issi could not support
the requested change to the roof elements and directed the ap lican work with staff
on alternatives to screen the bakery roof vents proposed on the s thwe roof element.
Two alternatives that were offered by the ARC were:. 1) to expand t sout est corner
roof element to screen the proposed bakery roof vents, and 2). Install chimn on the
southwest roof element that would be large enough to accommodate the of ven
Attachment 2
C4Of SM JUIS OBISN Department of Commwitv--neuellnnment
Planning Division
June 10, 2004
TO: TA and ER 26-04:: Citywide.
Tyler Corey, Associate Planner
FROM: Pamela.Ricci, AICP, Senior Planner, Community Development {
SUBJECT: Modifications to the City's Sign Regulations and environmental review
The Architectural Review Commission, at its meeting of June 7, 2004, recommended
that the City Council adopt an ordinance updating the City's Sign Regulations with the
following changes:
1. Include projecting signs as an allowed sign type in the Tourist Commercial (C-T)
zone.
2. Provide additional language for roof signs on page 30 that states, "Roofs having
interesting architectural or unique features may be considered for signs where
findings found in Section 151.40.610,A numbers 2, 3, and 4 can be made."
The action of the Architectural Review Commission is a recommendation and, therefore,
is not final. This matter has-been tentatively scheduled for public hearing before the City
Council on August 3, 2003. This date, however, should be verified with the City Clerk's
Office (ext. 102)..
cc: County of SLO Assessor's Office
3 , 13
Attachment 3
( CITY OF SAN _LUIS OBISPO .I
San Luis Obis Po Chamber of Commerce APR 2 200 1
1039 Chorro Street • San Luis Obispo, California 93401-3278
(805) 781-2777 • FAX (805) 543-1255 • TDD (805) 541-8416 I COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
April 2, 2004 David E. Garth, President/CEO - --
Chairperson Charles Stevenson and Members of the Architectural Review Commission
City of San Luis Obispo
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Re: Modifications to the City's Sign Regulations
Dear Chairperson Stevenson and Commission Members:
After reviewing in committee the Sign Regulations, Public Review Draft, we requested
that two of our volunteers who have professional knowledge.and expertise in this area,.
Pierre Rademaker of Rademaker Design and Bill Thoma of Thoma Electric, go over the
document in detail. The comments below are a result of their study and input. .
• Highlighted as very problematic is the use of the term "premises" as defined in
Article X, "a lot or series of lots under common ownership and/or developed
together as a single development site, regardless of how many uses occupy the
site" and as applied in the matrix under 154(]1160. In the chart under maximum
cumulative sign area per premises, insufficient square feet are allowed. A
consequence might be,for example, that individual stores in the Downtown
Center would be unable to each have their own sign. Tenants within a building
need to identify their own businesses:For insurance purposes, a premise is
defined as "the space you rent." This definition then gives the tenant of a
particular space the right to have appropriate and adequate signage.
• The format for the revised regulations needs to provide a clear comparison of
revisions to the prior ordinance. The change in format makes comparison very
difficult and is therefore the document is not user friendly.
• The matrix provided in 15.40.460 for size standards by zoning district, needs
further elaboration similar to the current ordinance. The matrix alone should
serve only as a quick reference guide.
e-mail: slochamber@slochamber.org • websites: www.slochamber.org www.visitslo.com 3 , 14
Attachment 3
• The term "free standing monument sign" used in the document in 15.40.460 and
in 15/40/470, letter B., is a misnomer as any monument sign has a solid base.
• A "pole sign' is not a separate sign type. It is a free standing sign and would only
require ARC approval if size or height limits are exceeded.
• The percentage of building face as a size determinant should be retained where.
appropriate.
• In 15.40.430, Illumination, there is no mention of neon signs.
• Also in the Illumination section, we would like to point out the following:
A) Point 2 needs clarification From whose view should the light be shielded?
Hopefully, from those traveling off site.
B) Point 4 is unfair to businesses that need to leave their lights on all night either
for safety purposes or for advertising. What is the purpose of the curfew?
C) In point 5, the term should be 10 candles, not 10 candlepower.
D) Point 8 is unfair to the business and/or property owner who needs measurable
objective standards to follow that are not later given a subjective
interpretation.
E) Does point 9 allow for individually lettered signs?
Under 15.40.470, A. Monument signs, 3. Illumination, a definition of halo lighting is
needed.
Finally, we respectfully submit that content regulation of visual displays is ill advised as
it is very subjective and infringes on operational decisions.
Thank you for considering our concerns. We appreciate your continued work on behalf
of our community.
Sincerely,
Laura Murphy
Chairperson of the Board
Attachment 4
Fi 4/16/04
Subject: Sign Regulation Update
f
�1 Attention: Tyler Corey
SOPS TH Associate Planner
S�GQN This is in response to the ARC review of the Sign Regulation Update.
Item#2 in,the minutes of the March 1 meeting,mentions the sign regulations of
Flagstaff where allowable square footage of signage is increased by following
design criteria that enhances the architectural quality of the sign. I am attaching a
Southpaw copy of this portion of the Flagstaff Sign Regulation for reference.
p While this is a good idea,it does not seem that the City of Flagstaff took full
Sign advantage of the idea I lived and worked in Flagstaff during the years that these
Company sign regulations were being developed and had conversations with Debbie Brandis,
the city sign inspector, about sign types that would be given extra square footage
because they encouraged the business owner to consider better quality signs,
3080-C McMillan which is the intent of any sign code. Debbie talked about allowing a small
percentage increase if sign permit applicants were getting signs that were
San Luis Obispo dimensional signs-carved or sandblasted, signs with gold leaf, signs made from
California materials that aged better like high density urethane sign foam in place of wood.
93401 The belief was that this made it easy to keep undesirable signs -flat plastic vinyl
signs-at a minimum square footage. This would also make the better signs more
prominent in size as well as image integrity. It was also discussed that the sign
phone could have additional square footage for each improvement that was incorporated
80S.781.0429' into the sign. For example,a projecting sign as stated in the sign code is allowed
20 square feet maximum if it is flat yellow background with red vinyl text If the
store owner decided to make their sign a handcarved sign with gold leaf letters and
fax used high density urethane foam instead of wood,they could get a 5%increase in
805.781.0303 square footage for each sign improvement While a 15%increase in size should
sound like a good incentive to a store owner, 15%of 20 sq. ft is not enough to
southpawsigns.com make the sign to large in the downtown environment
During the meeting,it was noted by commissioners the"lively"feel neon signs
f'J create in a downtown environment. The current sign regulations call for ARC
sill approval of neon signs. On construction projects the cost of ARC review may be
unsubstantial,but for a small neon sign that would fit into the allowed square
footage of downtown the cost of ARC review could easily be one half the cost of
the sign.Perhaps there could be guidelines established that would allow small U.L.
labeled neon signs in the downtown area without the need for ARC review. This
would encourage the lively night time ambience downtown that can only be
achieved with neon light
There was also concern over the maximum square footage of 200 square feet
allowed to each business. This may sound like a lot of signage on paper,but the
current sign regulations govern this well already. The various zones of San Luis
Obispo allow 2-4 signs per.storefront. Monument signs, window signs,projecting
signs and hanging signs are all regulated to 12-24 square feet The only way a store
owner can get even close to 200 square feet of signage is if they have a huge
3 -l1�0
Attachment 4
E building and choose to have a wall sign. If a store front had enough square footage
W to qualify for 200 square feet of signage, it would have to be a large storefront on
which 200 square feet would probably be well proportioned
There was also a question of`Banner Signs".A banner sign is generally defined
SOUTH� by a sign that is not on a rigid substrate and designed for temporary use. Standard
SIGN substrates for banner signs are vinyl, canvas and paper. Pana-flex signs were also
co discussed and it seems that the definition of a Pana-flex sign was misunderstood.
Pana-flex signs are a bannerlike material that is being use as a light weight
alterative for large electric sign faces. Pana-flex sign faces are not considered
temporary signage.
Southpaw I would be happy to assist in any way with sign specs, sample materials,photos
Sign or anything else.
Company Thanks,
3080-C McMillan Sean Beauchamp
San Luis Obispo Southpaw Sign Company
California 3080-C McMillan St.
93401 San Luis Obispo
781-0427
phone
805.781.0427
fax
805.781.0303
southpawsigns.com
3 - i �l
Attachment 4
r9.puz LAM- .crigpc
10-08-001-0007
E. REVIEW AND APPROVAL.
L REVIEW. Upon submittal,the application will be reviewed for conformance with the standards of
this Division, and a permit will be issued within ten (10) days of a complete submittal; if the
application meets the applicable standards and the required fees are paid Items for approval by the
Planning&Zoning Commission will be scheduled for the next available agenda
2. MINOR AMENDMENT. The Planning Director shall review applications for minor amendments to
sign permits before any change, modification, alteration, or other deviation from the terms and
conditions of the sign permit and before any such change in the use of the sign as originally
permitted can be made. The Planning Director may approve the changes, so long as the proposed
sign installation will meet all standards or requirements set forth in this section which apply to the
sign permit and insWation.
3. SUBST)TUTION. At any timw after a sign perntit is issued;-a new owner,fieaant,iassee;architect,
engineer,or contractor of record,may be substituted for the original applicant,if a record of the new
interest is made with the City of Flagstaff and the new interest assumes all obligations he or she
would-have-had under the original permit `Phe change of interest shall not imply that any fees paid
for the permit will be returned to either the interest which has been replaced or the substitute.
4. EXPIRATION. A sign permit may be considered a license to proceed with the work specified in the
permit Such permit shall expire and become null and void,if the work authorized under such permit
is not commenced within one hundred and eighty (180) days from The date of issuance of such
permit,or if work is suspended or abandoned for a period ninety(90)days or more at arty time after
the work has commenced. If a permit has not been obtained within one hundred and eighty (180)
days after the approval of permit plans and issuance of such permit,the Community Deveiopmett
Deparunent shall consider the application withdrawn and may destroy any application and plans
pertainingto the appfieatioa.
%F. COMPREHENSIVE SIGN:PROGRAMS:
L PURPOSE: The purpose of this section is to provide a process to respond to special signage needs of
proposed or existing non-residential uses, as_;toKprovide,for-signidesign-mceadves,that:i
promote sgpeaor;sign design,.matecials and installation_txte ods:;
2. APPLICABILITY. The following provisions governing comprehensive sign programs apply to
proposed or existing non-residential uses.
a. Required:
(I) -For all proposed non-residential multi-tenant developments and master planned
communities,a Comprehensive Sign Program is required
(2) For existing non-residential multi-tenant uses, a Comprehensive Sign Program is
required when:
(a) a building addition and/or an increase of use is proposed in terms of gross
floor area,seating capacity,or other units of measurement indicating an
intaisification of use of twenty-five percent(25%d)or more;
.(b) when an exterior structural remodeling.of the building facade is.proposed
which affects signage.
�� I 0
Attachment 4
J;,r„r/L^�• Ci�,Af llll�L{�ErtL+g `�"g '��
10-08-001-0007
b. Optional:
A comprehensive sign program may voluntarily be developed and maintained by the owner,
developer or representative of any new or existing non-residential use, when the owner,
developer or representative seeks 4ustment allowances provided for under the Sign
Design Performance Standards of this section. Any adjustment allowances authorized
under a Comprehensive Sign Program using.the Sign Design Performance Standards,apply
to all building mounted signs and freestanding signs within the boundaries of the subject
site.
3. REVIEW.
a. Administrative Review:
(1) Comprehensive sign programs which reflect proposed signage in compliance with
the standards of this Chapter are reviewed by staff in a standard administrative
review procedure,and are not subject to additional review requirements.
(2) The Comprehensive Sign Program submittal is reviewed for compliance with the
requirements of this Chapter, and a recommendation to approve, conditionally
approve, or deny the proposed sign program will be made by staff Upon
signature and acceptance of the Sign Program by the Planning Director,a copy of
the approved Comprehensive Sign Program will be made available to the
applicant. The construction and placemart of individual signs contained in the
approved Comprehensive Sign Program is subject to the issuance of sign permits
in accordance with this Chapter..
(3) A written appeal of the outcome of a Comprehensive Sign.Program review,may
be made to the Planning and Zoning Commission within ten (10) days of the
outcome of the review,and shall meet the submittal requirements as listed in this
Section for use by the Planning and Zoning Commission: The appeal submittal
must be received by the Community Development Department at least sixteen(16)
days prior to a regularly scheduled meeting of the Planning and Zoning
Commission at which the appeal is to beheard.
(4) The Commission shall affirms reverse,or modify the decision of staff in regard to
the Comprehensive Sign Program, in accordance with these regulations and any
other applicable provisions of the Land Developmew Code.
b. Comprehensive Sign Program Review:
(1) Comprehensive sign programs containing elements which exceed the permitted
height and/or area of signs permitted under Section 10-08-001.0004, in
accordance with Section 10-08-001-0007.F.6,.6Sign :Designr:=:Peifonmence
3 Standards,may be approved upon review by the Planning&Zoning Commission.
Requests for such review will be scheduled for the next regularly scheduled
meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission after submittal of a complete
Comprehensive Sign Program package.
(2) The Commission shall review such comprehensive sign programs in accordance
with thd7ftii Dasigt:Perfotmance;Standards, and shall approve, approve with
conditions,or disapprove me proposed comprehensive sign program
(3) Any person aggrieved by a decision of the Planning Commission to approve or
disapprove a comprehensive sign program may file an application for appeal with
Attachment 4
rJ��1/LAJR c nwA l,(g(jHag �a� -
the City Council within ten(10)calendar days of the decision. If a decision by the
10-08-001-0007
Planning and Zoning Commission is appealed,the City Council shall consider the
appeal within three weeks of the appeal request or as soon as is reasonably
practical. The City Council shall affirm, reverse, or modify the decision of the
Commission in accordance with the standards referenced above and any other
applicable provisions of this Chapter.
4. SUPPLEMENTAL-PROVISIONS.
a. Modifications to an approved Comprehensive Sign Program may be requested pursuant to
the procedures set forth in this Section,as noted above.
b. Comprehensive Sign Programs required by this Section are subject to the application
requirements and conditions as identified herein, however, the implementation of the
Comprehensive gign-Program may done in phases.
C. No sign identified in this Section may placed upon real property without the consent of the
real property owner(s), who shall either sign and submit the application for a
comprehensive sign program or designate in writing an authorized representative.
5. SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS.
a for a proposed or existing non-residertiad multi-tom use or master planned community,
submittal of the sign program is required following or in conjunction with the approval of
the required site,plan for the development,and,prior to issuance of a building.,permit for the
development. For consideration of a Comprehensive Sign Program,a complete application
must be submitted to the Planning Division,and shall be signed by the property owner(s),
and/or their authorized agent(s); if appropriate, of 1he property covered by the
Comprehensive Sign Program Such application shall contain the following:
(1) An accurate plot plan of the overall development,including all parcels comprising
the multi=tenant development or master plarmed community,at such a scale as the
PlanningDivWunrequires.
(2) The location(s) and sizes of existing and proposed buildings, parking lots,
driveways,streets and landscaped areas of the development.
(3) The size, location,height, color, lighting source, and orientation of all proposed
signs for the development,with a computation of sign area for each sign type. The
Comprehensive Sign-Program sluff include a complete set of standards,including
but not limited to,letter size,style,colors,type(s),placement and number of signs,
and sign material(s): A narrative description of the .project which may be
necessary to demonstrate that the sign program meets the required findings and/or
sign design standards is also required.
(4) Any other information deemed necessary to meet the findings noted above.
6. ''S"tf'fi 1fiIyS`rfii�TE1f1TORlult{7wtCBS"i'f�F�AS.
7R: SWf.Design.Elemeats:` to es imlhe allowable area and/or bit of certain types of
signs may be,approved t D encouraBe:P signs with design featiuis 1liat`irie piti'feFred:
xb9,tthe,.Cdx;end the.Commrnnity,atlarge :7 ,
As used herein, preferred design features shall apply to either freestanding or building
Attachment 4
rhe rung. AWy 1UghdagyagoSt
mounted signs and shall include the following, subject to "b", Cumulative Adjustments,
below and are in addition to the base maximum area and height limitations in Table 10-08-
10-U&001-0007'
001-0004. In addition,all signs located in multi-tenant centers are required to comply with
the center's comprehensive sign plan, if such plan has been approved by the City of
Flagstidf
(1) Raised Letter Signs: The purpose of this standard is to encourage the use of
individual lettered business and logo design, or where appropriate, signs
containing copy,logo and/or decorative embellishments in relief an the face of the
sign. Such improved sign design results in enhanced readability of sign copy and
a positive image of a business or use.
A sign area and/or height increase may be given for the use of sign designs which
display the following: Pan channel letters without raceways, or intemallmdirect
illuminated(halo)letters,on an unfit or otherwise indistinguishable bad ourid on
a freestanding sign or building wall. Or where appropriate, carved signs with a
three ,(3) dimensional textured surface that is integral to its design,, such as
extensively carved,routed,and/or sandblasted signs containing the business name
and/or logo.
Freestanding RiTilding Mnnmw Wall Sign.
• Single or Multi-TenantUse -Ten fercent(10%)Area Increase
Fifteen Percent(15%)Area Increase
Tet Percent(101/6)Height Increase
(2) Simplified'Letter and/or Logo Copy: The purpose of this standard is to encourage
easily recognizable business identification while simplifying the appearance of the
city streetscape.
A sign area and/or height increase may be given for the use of sign designs which
display the following:
Frerchm_ din4gn- gnilding MomteA Wall Sim
. Single fenamtse: Single"Tenant Use, or individual
Occupancy within a Multi-Tenant
Building,.Development or Shopping
Center.
Four(4)Stems of Information: Four(4)Items of Information:
Fifteen Percent(15%)Area Increase Ten Percent(10%)Area Increase
Tet Percent(10%)Height Increase
. Multi Tenant Building,
Development or Shopping Center.
Fourteen(14)Item of Information:
Fifteen Percent(15%)Area.Increase
Attachment 5
�Ii��h�illlll8111 IIIIIIIIIIII � .l
i�i�iilll�llllln city o
IWS OBISPO
990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3249
INITIAL STUDY
ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM
For ER-26-04
1. Project Title: Sign Regulations Update
2. Lead Agency Name and Address:
City of San Luis Obispo
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
3. Contact Person and Phone Number:
Tyler Corey, Associate Planner(805) 781-7169
4. Project Location: Citywide
5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address:
City of San Luis Obispo
Community Development Department
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Tyler Corey as representative for the City
6. General Plan Designation: Citywide
7. Zoning: Citywide
8. Description of the Project:
In the on-going efforts to improve and updatethe City's 1Vlunicipal"Code, the Planning Division
has completed an update to the City's Sign Regulations`
dated July 3, 1997. The goals of this
update are to develop defensible regulations, identify_a palette of sign types, expand on design
guidelines and create a user friendly document. Changes to the sign standards for the various
zoning districts (i.e. sign location, number per premise, and allowable types and sizes) are not
being proposed with this update. A copy of the recommended text amendments is included as
attachment 1.
9. Surrounding Land Uses and Settings: Citywide
OThe City of San Luis Obispo is committed to include the disabled in all of its services,programs and activities.
Telecommunications Device for the Deaf(805)781-7410.
l
Attachment 5
10. Project Entitlements Requested:
Sign Regulation Text Amendments
Environmental Review
11. Other public agencies whose approval is required: None
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO 2 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2004
3 -�.3
Attachment 5
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED:
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least
one impact that is a"Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages..
Aesthetics Geology/Soils Public Services
Agricultural Resources Hazards&Hazardous Recreation
Materials
Air Quality Hydrology/Water Quality Transportation&Traffic
Biological Resources Land Use and Planning Utilities and Service
Systems
Cultural Resources Noise Mandatory Findings of
Significance
A
SO,
T � �
YY1-Energy and Mineral Population and HousingResources . cti
FISH AND GAME FEES
There is no evidence before the Department that the project will have any potential adverse effects on fish
X and wildlife resources or the habitat upon which the wildlife depends. As such, the project qualifies for a
de minimis waiver with regards to the filing of Fish and Game Fees.
The project has potential to impact fish and wildlife resources and shall be subject to the payment of Fish
and Game fees pursuant to Section 711.4 of the California Fish and Game Code. This initial study has been
circulated to the California Department of Fish and Game for review and comment.
STATE CLEARINGHOUSE
This environmental document must be submitted to the State Clearinghouse for review by one or more
State agencies(e.g. Cal Trans, California Department of Fish and Game, Department of Housing and
Community Development). The public review period shall not be less than 30 days (CEQA Guidelines
15073(a)).
CITY OF SAN Luts OBISPO 3 INmAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2004
1
Attachment 5
DETERMINATION:
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and X
a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment,
there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been
made, or the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet(s) have been added and
agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be
reared.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an
ENVIRONMENTAL MTACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact(s) or "potentially
significant unless mitigated" impact(s) on the environment, but at least one effect (1) has been
adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and (2) has
been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached
sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL WPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the
effects that remain to be addressed
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment,
because all potentially significant effects (1) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR
or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (2) have been avoided
or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR of NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions
or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project,nothingfurther is uired.
March 16,2004
gnature Date
Ronald Whisenand,Deputy Director of Community Development For:John Mandeville,
Printed Name Community Development Director
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBIspo 4 INmAL STuoy ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2004
Attachment 5
EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:
1. A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the
information sources a lead agency cites in the analysis in each section. A "No Impact" answer is adequately
supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one
involved (e.g. the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A"No Impact" answer should be explained where it is
based on project-specific factors as well as general standards(e.g. the project will not expose sensitive receptors to
pollutants,based on a project-specific screening analysis).
2. All answers must take account of the whole action involved,including off-site as well as on-site,cumulative as well
as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. The explanation of each
issue should identify the significance criteria or threshold,if any,used to evaluate each question.
3. "Potentially Significant Impact'is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is significant. If there are
one or more"Potentially Significant Impact"entries when the determination is made,an EIR is required.
4. "Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has
reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less than Significant Impact." The lead agency must
describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level
(mitigation measures from Section 17, "Earlier Analysis," may be cross-referenced).
5. Earlier analysis may be used where,pursuant to the tiering,program EIR,or other CEQA,process,an effect has been
adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063 (c) (3) (D) of the California Code of
Regulations. Earlier analyses are discussed in Section 17 at the end of the checklist.
6. Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential
impacts (e.g. general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document should,
where appropriate,include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated.
7. Supporting Information Sources: A source list should be attached,and other sources used or individuals contacted
should be cited in the discussion. In this case,a brief discussion.should identify the following:
a) Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review.
b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and
adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such
effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on earlier analysis.
C) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated,"
describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent
to which they address site-specific conditions for the project.
CITY OF SAN Luis OsisPO 5 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CNECKLIsT 2004
3 -c)U
Attachment 5
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources sources Potentiauy Potentially less Man No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Issues Unless Impact
ER#26-04 Mitigation
Incorporated
1.AESTHETICS Would theproject:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? X
b) Substantially damage scenic resources,including,but not limited X
to,trees,rock outcroppings,open space,and historic buildings
within a local or state scenic highway?
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of X
the site and its surroundings?
d) Create a newsource of substantial light or glare which would X
adverselyeffect da or nighttime views in the area?
Conclusion: No impacts to aesthetics would occur with the implementation of the Sign Regulation text amendments. One of
the goals of the update is to protect and improve the visual character of the City's commercial districts and various traffic
corridors by expanding on "signage guidelines" for each specific sign type and providing a "sign gallery" that includes
photographs depicting good sign design. Both of these document modifications will give customers a better understanding of
the City's design intent for the various sign types and potentially improve the overall quality of signage installed throughout
the City.
2.AGRICULTURE RESOURCES. Would theproject:
a) Convert Prime Farmland,Unique Farmland,or Farmland of X
Statewide Importance(Farmland),as shown on the maps
pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of
the California Resources Agency,to non-agricultural use?
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or a X
Williamson Act contract?
c) Involve other changes in the existing environment which,due to X
their location or nature,could result in conversion of Farmland
to non-agricultural use?
Conclusion: No impacts to agricultural resources would occur with the implementation of the Sign Regulation text
amendments.
3. AIR QUAIATY. Would the project:
a) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an 1,3,8 X
existing or projected air quality violation?
b) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air X
qty per?
c) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant 8 X
concentrations?
d) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of X
people?
e) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria X
pollutant for which the project region is non-attainment under an
applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard
(including releasing emissions which exceed qualitative
thresholds for ozone precursors)?
The project will not impact air quality as it does not involve any amendments to City policy on air pollution, nor will it
generate additional sources of air pollution.
4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would theproject:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect,either directly or indirectly or 1,2 X
through habitat modifications,on any species identified as a
candidate,sensitive,or special status species in local or regional
plans,policies,or regulations,or by the California Department
of Fish and Game or U.S:Fish and Wildlife Service?
b)_ Iaye a substantial adv_erse`effect,on any riparian habitat or X
Crry OF SAN Luis Owspo 6 INITIAL STuoy ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKusT 2004
,3
Attachment 5
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potenually Potentially Less- n No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Issues Unless Impact
ER#26-04 Mitigation
Incorporated
other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional
plans,'Policies,or regulations,or by the,California Department
of Fish�and Game or U.S..Fish and Wildlife Service?
c) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances,protecting X
biological resources,such as a tree preservation policy or
ordinance(e.g.Heritage Trees)?
d) •Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident X
or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native
resident or migratory wildlife corridors,or impede the use of
wildlife nursery sites?
C), .Conflict with the provisions of an adopted habitat Conservation X
Plan;Natural Community Conservation Plan,or other approved
local,reBional,or state habitat conservation plan?_ _
f)• Have a substantial advesse,eff otbrifederally protected X
Wetlands as defined in Sectioa 404,of tlie;Cleaq Water Act
(g eluding,but not liniiW io,marshes,vernalpools,etc.)
thr011$li'direct removal,-filling,bydrol0$ical interruption,or
other means?
Conclusion:No biological impacts would occur as no specific site is under consideration.
5.CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would theproject:
a) , Cause a"substantial adverse change in the significance of a 1,4,5, X
historic resource?(See CEQA Guidelines 15064.5)
b) Case a substantial adverse change in the significance of an X
archaeological resource?(See CEQA Guidelines 15064.5)
c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource X
or site Or unique geologic,feattireT
d) ;Disturb'atiy;human remains,ine1uding.those4aterred outside of X
formal cemeteries?
Condusion:No cultural impacts would occur as no sEEjEE site is under consideration.
6. ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the ro'ect:
a) Cooflid with adopted energyconservation plans?: 1,6 X
,b) -.Use nbn-renewable resour=ld a wasteful 6d inefficient X
C) rn the a v
loss of arlabrlity,of;'I]mown mineral:resource X
.�uld:be'of value to the Tdgron and the residents of the
:.State?_:
Conclusion: No impact. The project will not conflict with the City's energy conservation plans.
7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the ro ect:
a) Expose People or structures to potential substagtial adverse. 1,6,7 X
effects;including risk of loss,i1fli ry or death involving: .
I. Rupture of a known earthquake fault,•as`delineated'in the X
most iCcent Alguist-Eriolo Earthquake-Fault Zoning Map
issued by the State,Geologist for the area,or based on other,.
iubstantiia evidence of a'lmown-fault?
, .. 7 X
IL Stt one seismic ground shaking? -
$II Se3snuc=re fated groundfarlu;%incltrdtng liquefaction? X
74
Mx
mudflows? '• "` X
b� sultia substanfla'l sorlerusron pr the loss of topsoil? X
0� Beloc_ated on a geologic aimrt or soil.that rs vristable,or that, X
v�%ould 1xcDmt; instablt,as:aresulIt of the project;°and:potenUally.
result on�r offsite landslides; al spreadrng,_sp srdence,
CRY Of SAN LUIS OBISPO 7 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2004
3 - �S
Attachment 5
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially less Ihan No
Significant Significant Significant impact
Issues Unless Impact
ER#26-04 Mitigation
In orated
liquefaction,or collapse?
d) Be located on expansive soil,as defined in Table 18-1-B of the X
Uniform Building Code(1994),creating substantial risks to life
or ?
Conclusion: The project will not expose people to geologic hazards because it will not modify the City policy on
development in areas with high geologic sensitivity.
8. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the r('ect:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment 1,6 X
through the routine use,transport or disposal of hazardous
materials? .
b) Cfeate a significant hazard io the public or the environment X
t through reasonably foreseeable-upset and accident conditions
involving the release of hazardous materials into the
environment?
,c) Eutit hazaidous,emissions or handle hazardous or.acutely X
b4prdotis materials;substances;or.waste within one=quarter
mile,of,an existing or proposed school?
d) Expose people or structures.to:existing `sources of hazardous X
emissions or hazardous or.acutely hazardous materials,
substances,or waste?
e) Be located on a site-which is included on a list of hazardous X
materials sites-compiled pursuant'to Government Code Section
65965 and,as a result;it would create a significant hazard to
the public or the environment?
'f) :For a.proiect located within an airport land use plan,or within X
two:miles.of a public airport,would the project result in a safety
hazard for the people r•esiding:or working in the project area?•
.g) Impair implementation pf. .gr physically interfere with,the. X
adopted emergency response plan or a pergency evacuation
h)' Expose'people orstructures to a significanfrisk of lose,injury, X
ordeath;involving Wdland fires,includingwherq wildlands are
adjacent to urbanized areas or where residents are.h term zed
with wildlands?
Conclusion: No hazardous impacts would occur as no specific site is under consideration.
9. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the rolect:
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge 1,2 X
requirements?
b) Substantially.deplete grbundwater•sdpplies or;interfere X
substantially with•groundwater recharge such that there would be
a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering.of the local
groundwater table level(e g.The production rate of pre-existing
nearby wells would drop.io a4evel.which•would not support
existing land•uses for which permiis have been
c) .Create or,contiibute runoff water-which would exceed the X
capacity of existing crplanned storm water drainage systems or
pmvuie'additro_nal soin+=4li6offin6surface waters
'(including,but not lituited to;wetlands,iip;;rian;areas,ponds,
spnnngs;,creeks;sti%u& rivers,lakes,estuaries;tidal areas;bay's,
.+ gcean,-etc)
d)':,,Substarittally alter the existing drau ne pattetp of.the.site or X
tI♦r CITY OF SAN Luts 081Sp0 8 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKusT 2004
43 ,26
Attachment 5
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
ER#26-04 Issues Uless Mitiga[on Impact
Incorporated
area in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or
siltation onsite or offsite?
C) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or X
area in a manner which would result in substantial flooding
onsite or offsite?
f) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on X
a Federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map
or other flood hazard delineation map?
g) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which X
would impede or redirect flood flows?
h) Will the project intivduce typical storm water pollutants into X
ground or surface waters?
i) Will the project alter ground water or surface water quality, X
temperature,dissolved oxygen,or turbidity?
Conclusion: No impacts to water resources will occur as the project does not involve modifications to the City's policies on
water and drainage and no specific site is under consideration.
10. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would theProject:
a) Conflict with applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of 1,2 X
an agency with jurisdiction over the project adopted for the
purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect?
b) Physically divide an established community? X
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural X
community conservationplans?
Conclusion: No impact The text amendments will ensure that the City's Sign Regulations are consistent with the General
Plan.
11.NOISE. Would the project result in:
a) Exposure of people to or generation of"unacceptable'noise 1,6 X
levels as defined by the San Luis Obispo General Plan Noise
Element,or general noise levels in excess of standards
established in the Noise Ordinance?
b) A substantial temporary,periodic,or permanent increase in X
ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above-levels existing
without the project?
c) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne X
vibration or groundbome noise levels?
d) For project located within an airport land use plan,or within X
two miles of a public airport or public use airport,would the
project expose people residing or worldng in the project area to
excessive noise levels?
Conclusion: No impact. Implementation of the text amendments will not conflict with the City's Noise Element and Noise
Ordinance.
12. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would theproject:
a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly 1 X
(for example by proposing new homes or• businesses) or
indirectly (for,example, through extension of roads or other
infrastructure)?
b) Displace substantial' numbers of existing housing or people X
necessitating the construction of replacement: housing
elsewhere?
Conclusion: No impacts to population and housing will occur as the project does not involve modifications to the City's
policies on residential densities.
tlli�i CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO I INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CMECKusT 2004
C-3 � 30
Attachment 5
Potentiatl Potentially less ILao No
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Significant Significant Significant Impact
Issues Unless Impact
ER#26-04 Mitigation
Incorporated
13.PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the
provision,or need,of new or physically altered government facilities,the construction of which could Muse
significant environmental impacts,in order to maintain acceptable service ratios,response times,or other
performance objectives for any of the public services:
a) Fire protection? 6 X
b) Police protection? X
c) Schools? X
d) Parks? X
e) Roads and other transportation infrastructure? X
Other public facilities? X
Conclusion: The project will not impact public services as no specific site is under consideration.
14.RECREATION. Would theproject:
a) Increase the use of existing neighborhood or regional parks or 1 X
other recreational facilities such that substantial physical
deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated?
b) Include recreational facilities or require the construction or X
expansion of recreational facilities,which might have an adverse
h ical effect on the environment?
Conclusion: No impacts to recreational facilities and programs will occur with implementation of the Sign Regulation text
amendments.
15. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC. Would theproject:
a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to the 1 X
existing traffic.load and capacity of the street system?
b) Exceed,either individually or cumulatively,a level of service X
standard established by the county congestion management
agency for designated roads and highways?
c)' Substantially increase hazards due to design features(e.g.sharp X
curves or dangerous intersections)or incompatible uses(e g.
farm equipment)?
d) Result in inadequate emergency access? X
e) Result in inadequate parking capacity onsite or offsite? X
f) Conflictwith adopted policies supporting alternative X
transportation(e g.bus turnouts,bicycle ranks)?
g) Conflict with the with San Luis-Obispo County Airport Land• X
Use Plan resulting in substantial safety risks from hazards,noise,
or a chane in air t aft atterns?
Conclusion: No impact.This project is a text amendment,and therefore will not in itself create any effects on transportation
or circulation.
16.U nLITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would theproject:
a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable 1,6 X
Regional water Quality Control Board?
b) Require or result in the construction or expansion of new water X
treatment,waste water treatment,water quality control,or storm.
drainage facilities,the construction of which could cause
significantenvironmental effects?
c) Have;sufficient water supplies available:to serve the project X
from existing entitlements and resources,or are new and
expanded water resources needed2•.. .
d) Result in a determination by the wastewito treatment provider. X
which serves or may e_the:projeq disc it has ad_pq . ..
(lllti`�i CITY OF SAN Luis OBISPO 10 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2004
3 . 3•l
Attachment 5
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Issues Unless
Impact
ER#26-04 Mitigation
Inc orated
capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to
the provider's existing commitment?
e) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to X
accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs?
f) Comply with federal,state,and local statutes and regulations X
related to solid waste?
Conclusion: No impact.The project will not impact utility systems as nospecific site is under consideration.
17.MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE.
a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the X
environment,substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife
species,cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-
sustaining levels,threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
community,reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or
endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of
the ma or veriods of California history or prehistory?'
Implementation of the Sign Regulation text amendments will not de ade the quality of the environment.
b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited,but X
cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable"
means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable
when viewed in connection with the effects of the past projects,
the effects of other current projects,and the effects of probable
futureprojects)
No cumulative impacts are expected to occur from implementation of the SignRegulation text amendments.
c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause X
substantial adverse.effects on human beings,either directly or
indirectly?
Implementation of the Sign Regulation text amendments will not create environmental effects that will have an adverse impact
on human beings.
18.EARLIER ANALYSES.
Earlier.analysis may be used where,pursuant to the tiering,program EIR,or other CEQA process,one or more effects have
been adequately analyzed in an earlier ER or Negative Declaration. Section 15063 (c) (3) (D). In this case a discussion
should identify the following items:
a Earlier analysis used. Identify earlier analyses and state where they are available for review.
N/A
b) Impacts adequately addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately
analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards,and state whether such effects were addressed by
mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis.
N/A
c) Mitigation measures. For effects that are"Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated," describe the mitigation
measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site-specific
conditions of the project.
N/A
19. SOURCE REFERENCES.
1. City of San Luis Obispo General Plan
2. City of San Luis Obispo Zoning Ordinance,July 31,2003
3. 1998 Clean Air Plan.SLO APCD
4. City of San Luis Obispo Archaeological Resource Preservation Guidelines,October 1995
5. City of San Luis Obispo Historical Preservation Program Guidelines -
6. San Luis Obispo Municipal Code
7. 1 City of San Luis Obispo Seismic Safety Element,July 1995
8. 1 CEQA Air Quality Handbook.APCD.April 2003
MAT
Cm OF SAN Luis OaLspo 11 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CNEcwsT 2004
3-3a
Attachment 6
ORDINANCE NO. (2004 Series)
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS
OBISPO REPEALING CHAPTER 15.40 OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO
MUNICIPAL CODE IN ITS ENTIRETY AND ADDING CHAPTER 15.40
TO THE SAN LUIS OBISPO MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING SIGN
REGULATIONS
(TA/ER 26-04)
WHEREAS, the Architectural Review Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo
conducted public hearings in the Council Hearing Room of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis
Obispo, California, on March I", April 5`h, 19`s and June 7`h, 2004, and recommended approval
of amendments to the City's Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public hearing
in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California, on August
17, 2004; and has considered the testimony of interested parties, the records of the Architectural
Review Commission hearings and action, and the evaluation and recommendation of staff; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the proposed text amendments are consistent
with the General Plan, the purposes of the Zoning Regulations, and other applicable City
ordinances; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed and considered the draft Negative
Declaration of environmental impact for the project, as prepared by staff and reviewed by the
Architectural Review Commission; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo as follows:
SECTION 1. Environmental Determination. The City Council finds and determines that
the project's Negative Declaration adequately addresses the potential significant environmental
impacts of the proposed project, and reflects the independent judgment of the City Council. The
Council hereby adopts said Negative Declaration.
SECTION 2. Repeal and. Replace Chapter 15.40. The existing Chapter 15.40, Sign
Regulations, of the San Luis Obispo Municipal Code is hereby repealed in its entirety and
replaced with new Chapter 15.40, as shown in Exhibit A.
SECTION 3. A summary of this ordinance, together with the names of Council
members voting for and against, shall be published at least five (5) days prior to its final passage,
in the Telegram-Tribune, a newspaper published and circulated in this City. This ordinance shall
go into effect at the expiration of thirty (30) days after its final passage.
3 -33
Ordinance No. (2004 Serie., AffachfT ent 6
TA/ER 26-04 (Citywide)
INTRODUCED on the 17`h day of August, 2004, AND FINALLY ADOPTED by the
Council of the City of San Luis Obispo on the day of2004, on the following
roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Mayor David F. Romero
ATTEST:
Diane Reynolds, Acting City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Jo well, City Attorney
3 � �
Exhibit A
city of San WIS OBISPO
Regulationir
ONE DAY
I
SERVICE
5-04
3 3<'
Table of Contents
ArticleI. General Provisions.............................................................................................. l
15.40.100 Title............................................................................................................ 1
15.40.110 Intent and Purpose...................................................................................... 1
15.40.120 Applicability........................................................................................:...... l
ArticleH. Exempt Signs.................................................................................................3
15.40.200 Types of Signs Exempt from a Sign Permit........::.....................................3
Article III. Prohibited Signs...........:.....................:.:......,.................................................5
15.40.300 Prohibited signs, ....:...:...........:....................................................................5
Article IV. Sign Standards .................:............................................................................7
15.40.400 Area and Height Measurement...................................................................7
15.40.4 10 Setbacks......................................................................................................7
15.40.420 Maximum Height and Location.................................:...............................8
15.40.430 Illumination................................................................................................8
15.40.440 Clearance....................................................................................................9.
15.40.460 Sign Standards by District...............................,................I.................:...... 10
15.40.470 Sign Standards by Sign Type.......,...:...:.................................::...............A l
15.40.480 Signs Requiring Architectural Review.....................................................26
15.40.485 Sign Programs...........................................................................................26
Article V. Sign Permits: Application and Processing Procedures .....................:'.........27
15.40.500 Permit Required.........................................................................................27
15.40.5 10 Sign Permit Application - Contents. ...........................................:.:..........27
15.40.520 Architectural Review Application............................................... ........... 27
15.40.530 Review and Action by the Director..............................................:.......:....27
15.40.540 Permit Issuance. .......................................................................................28
15.40.550 Denial. ......................................................................................................28
15.40.560 Appeals.....................................................................................................28
Article VI. Exceptions to Sign Standards......................................................................29
15.40.600 Requests for Exceptions..........:...:.........:........................:.......:...........:.....29
15.40.6 10 Findings for Approval of an Exception.....:................ ............................29
Article VII. Sign Maintenance and Abandoned Signs..................................................31
15.40.700 Maintaining Signs ....................................................................................31
15.40.7 10 Abandoned Signs......................................................................................31
15.40.720 Unsafe Signs........................................................................... .................31
Article VIII. Nonconforming Signs ...............................................................................33
15.40.800 Existing Nonconforming Signs - Abatement. ..........................................33
15.40.8 10 Abatement or Conformance -When required..........................................33
15.40.820 Amortization........................................................:....................................33
ArticleIX. Enforcement...............................................................................................35
15.40.900 Type of Offense........................................................................................35
15.40.910 Public Nuisance........................................................................................35
ArticleX: Definitions...................................................................................................37
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 8/6/2004 3,39 3
-�
,�
"J 0
City of San Luis Obispo—Si.,Regulations _ General Provisions
Article L General Provisions
15.40.100 Title.
This chapter shall be known and cited as the City of San Luis Obispo "Sign Regulations."
15.40.110 Intent and Purpose.
The Council of the City of San Luis Obispo has determined that these Sign Regulations
are necessary because:
A. The Sign Regulations are intended to protect and enhance the character of the
community and its various neighborhoods and districts against visual blight.
Furthermore, a proliferation of signs can seriously detract from the pleasure of
observing the natural scenic beauty of San Luis Obispo and the human environment.
B. It is necessary to regulate the size, type and location of signs to encourage the
effective use of signs as a means of communication and to provide equality and
equity among sign owners and those who wish to use signs.
C. Controlling the size and number of signs is necessary to implement community goals
and policies expressed in the General Plan;
D. Signs have an important design component and must be architecturally compatible
with affected structures and the character of surrounding development in order to
maintain the overall quality of a neighborhood or commercial district;
E. The cumulative effect of numerous signs close to each other has a detrimental
impact which can not be addressed in any way other than by limiting the number and
size of all signs;
F. It is necessary for public safety that official traffic regulation devices be easily
visible and free from nearby visual obstructions and distractions, such as attention-
getting signs, an excessive number of signs, or signs in any way resembling official
signs.
G. It is the intent of these regulations to regulate the time, place and manner under
which signs are permitted, and not the content of signage. Although examples of
content may be provided in these regulations for clarity, content will not be used as a
basis for determining whether or not a proposed sign may be permitted.
15.40.120 Applicability.
This chapter shall apply to all property and land within the jurisdiction of the City of San
Luis Obispo. It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation that owns, occupies, or
controls property in the City of San Luis Obispo to construct, maintain, display or alter or
cause to be constructed, maintained, displayed or altered, a sign within the City except in
conformance with this chapter.
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 1 8/6/2004
3 - 39
l
3 40
City of San Luis Obispo-Si,.Regulations Exempt Signs
Article ll. Exempt Signs
15.40.200 Types of Signs Exempt from a Sign Permit
The City has a compelling interest in permitting the following signs in order to comply
with state and local laws and to promote public safety on City property and/or in the
street right-of-way. The following signs may be installed without a sign permit, provided
they meet the requirements listed below. Under certain circumstances these signs may
require a building permit or encroachment permit. Contact the Building Division of the
Community Development Department and the Public Works Department for permitting
requirements prior to installing any of the signs listed below. These signs shall not be
included in the determination of type, number, or area of signs allowed on a given
property.
A. Address Signs: Signs installed in compliance with Article 901.4.4 of the 1997
Uniform Fire Code.
B. Construction Signs: A maximum of four signs located on construction sites not
exceeding 16 square feet in aggregate while a valid construction permit is active. For
commercial and residential projects on sites 3 acres or larger, the maximum exempt
sign area is 32 square feet.
C. Gasoline Price Signs: As required by State and Federal law, not more than one price
sign for each frontage, not to exceed 20 square feet each and subject to height, and
setback limits established by zoning district.
D. Government Signs: Official federal, state or local government signs and notices
issued by any court, person or officer in performance of a public duty.
E. Miscellaneous Small Signs: Signs with an aggregate area not to exceed 3 square feet .
and located within 5 feet of an entrance to a building.
F. No Trespassing Signs: Trespassing warnings that are posted in compliance with the
requirements of Federal, State and local laws.
G. Traffic Safety Signs: Signs warning of construction, excavation, or similar hazards
if expressly approved by the City's Public Works Director. Parking lot and other
private traffic directional signs each not exceeding 3 feet in height and 5 square feet
in area and limited to guidance of pedestrian or vehicular traffic within the premises
on which they are located.
H. Real Estate Signs: Temporary sips indicating that the property on which the sign is
located is for sale, rent or lease, as provided for by State law. Only one such sign is
permitted to face on each street adjacent to the property. Such signs may be single-
or double-faced and are limited in size to 3 square feet or less on property in
residential zones, and 10 square feet or less on property in commercial zones.
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 3 8/6/2004
Exempt Signs City of San 1 Obispo-Sign Regulations
I. Temporary Window Signs: Temporary signs on commercial properties that are
painted directly on a window, affixed to the inside of a window, or hung within 12
inches of a window promoting any message, including but not limited to, grand
openings and special events (commercial and non-commercial), provided the sign or
signs do not exceed 10 percent of each window area, or 4 square feet per window,
whichever is greater.
I Transit Signs: Signs identifying transit stops, facilities,times and bus routes.
K. Utility Signs: Signs placed by utility companies as part of the normal operation and
maintenance of facilities such as public telephones and underground services.
L. Vehicle Signs: Painted signs or decals affixed to the body of any vehicle, unless
parked for the primary purpose of displaying the sign.
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 4 8/6/2004 3
4a
City of San Luis Obispo—Sis_,Regulations Prohibited Signs
Article M. Prohibited Signs
15.40.300 Prohibited signs.
The following signs are prohibited and subject to immediate abatement by the City of San
Luis Obispo's Code Enforcement Officer. The City has a compelling interest to prohibit
the following signs to further the Intent and. Purpose (15.40.110) of these Sign
Regulations and to enforce local, State and Federal law.
A. Attention Getting Devices: Pennants,.streamers, spinners, balloons, inflatable signs,
search lights, beacons, flashing lights or messages and other similar attention-getting
devices, unless authorized in conjunction with a temporary use permit or special
event permit, or Architectural Review, and provided the City's Public Works Director
determines that such a sign will not create a distraction for users of the public right-
of-way.
B. Banner signs are prohibited unless:
1. approved in conjunction with a temporary or intermittent use permit or.special
event permit; or
2. approved with a sign permit as a temporary sign pending manufacture and
installation of an approved permanent sign; or ,
3. approved by the Public Works Director over designated rights-of,way;
C. Backlit Translucent Awning Signs: Any sign located on an awning that, is
translucent or semi-transparent and illuminated from a light source under or within
the awning.
D. Outdoor Advertising Displays and Off-Site Signs: Outdoor advertising displays
such as billboards and all off-site commercial signs are prohibited within the City of
San Luis Obispo.
E. Highly Reflective and Fluorescent Signs: Signs made wholly or partially of highly
reflective material and fluorescent or day-glow painted signs.
F Signs on Utility Poles or Traffic Control Devices - Signs attached or placed
adjacent to any utility pole, traffic sign post, traffic signal or any other official traffic-
control device, in accordance with Section 21464 of the California Vehicle Code.
G. Signs on Street Trees: Any sign posted on a street tree.
H. Signs that Block Ingress or Egress: Any sign, such as a sandwich-board sign,
placed or maintained so as to interfere with free ingress to or egress from any door,
window or fire escape, or parking lot.
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 5 8/6/2004 3 -43
Prohibited Signs City of San L Obispo—Sign Regulations
I. Signs in the Street Right-of-Way: Any sign placed in any street right-of-way
without a valid encroachment permit or prior approval of the Public Works Director
for the purpose of safety or traffic control.
J. Simulated Traffic Signs: Any sign which simulates or imitates in size, color,
lettering or design any traffic sign or signal, or which makes use of words, symbols or
characters in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse pedestrian or
vehicular traffic.
K. Vehicle Signs: Signs attached or painted to vehicles and parked in a position and
location with the primary purpose of displaying the sign.
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 6 8/6/2004_ (�
r
City of San Luis Obispo-Si, .Regulations Sign Standards
Article IV. Sign Standards
15.40.400 Area and Height Measurement
The sign area is calculated by determining the number of square feet of the smallest
rectangle(s) within which a sign face can be enclosed. In determining the area of an
individual sign that has more than one face (e.g. a monument or projecting sign), the
single sign face with the greatest area shall be used. The total sign area is the sum of all
individual sign areas.
The height of a sign shall be measured from the ground, adjacent to the sign, to the top of
the sign and support structure. If the ground under the sign slopes, the height shall be
measured from the average grade under the sign itself.
15.40.410 Setbacks
Except as provided in these Sign Regulations, sign location shall conform with setbacks
established in the Zoning Regulations. 1. . 1 1 ' �: _ a..
A. Signs taller than 3' may not be located within the visibility triangle depicted below.
Minor exceptions may be granted for controlled intersections if approved by the
Public Works Director and Community Development Director, or the ARC, if a
finding is made that the proposed sign will not effect the line of sight of vehicles or
pedestrians at the intersection.
mauu D 505ALR
NO SIGNS SVM V
NIGH IN THIS AREA
I
...... _.__ FrXIFERTY LINE
i
SIDEWALK . .
' I
GLIM
B. With Public Works Director approval, traffic directional signs may be placed in the
required setback, providing they do not interfere with visibility required for safe
vehicular and pedestrian circulation, especially at street corners.
C. With Public Works Director and Community Development Director approval,
monument signs may be located in the required setback area, provided they are
outside of the visibility triangle, provide adequate site distance for driveways and
meet applicable height and area limits established for the zoning district.
D. The ARC may approve reduced setbacks for signs that they review, provided the
sign does not interfere with visibility required for safe vehicular and pedestrian
circulation and provided that the sign is architecturally compatible with the proposed
location.
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 7 8/6/2004 3 .
Sign Standards _ City of San ;Obispo-SignBegulations
15.40.420 Maximum Height and Location
The maximum height of any sign is 25 feet above the adjacent grade. A sign may not be
located above the highest point of the second story of any building, unless an exception is
approved by the Architectural Review Commission (ARC).
All signs that are attached to a building must be located on a building face that has a
public entrance.•. The Community Development Director may make exceptions to this
requirement in circumstances where the purpose and intent of these regulations is
maintained and where the orientation of the public entrance to a building is such that the
sign would not have sufficient visibility from the public right-of-way to provide for
adequate identification of the business or use.
15.40.430 Illumination
Where illumination of signs is permitted, the following standards shall apply.
1. Lighting for signs shall not create_a hazardous glare for pedestrians or vehicles either
in a public street-or on any private premises.
2. The light source, whether internal to the sign or extemal,.shall be shielded from view.
This requirement is not intended to preclude the use of diffused exposed neon.
3. Sign illuminationfor externally illuminated signs shall utilize focused light fixtures
that do not allow light or glare to shine above the horizontal plane of the top of the
sign or onto any public right-of-way or adjoining property.
4. Signs shall not be illuminated after 10:00 p.m. or close of business, whichever is later.
5. Each sign shall be designed so that illumination does not exceed 100 luxes (10 foot-
candles) measured at a distance of 10 feet from the sign.
6. In the Office Zone illumination of the sign face shall not exceed 10 luxes (1 foot-
candle) measured at a distance of 10 feet from the sign.
7. Signs located in residential zones may not be illuminated, except directory signs,
which shall not exceed 10 luxes (l foot-candle) measured at a distance of 10 feet
from the sign.
8. These maximum illumination levels are not guaranteed and may need to be reduced
to insure compliance with standards 1, 2 and 3 of this section.
9. Internally illuminated cabinet signs are prohibited in the Downtown Commercial
(CD) zone.
10. All internally illuminated cabinet signs, including monument signs, walls signs,
projecting signs and pole signs shall have dark backgrounds with light lettering,
subject to compliance with standards 5, 6, and 7 of this section, unless otherwise
approved by the ARC.
/
tp
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 8 8/6/2004
City of San Luis Obispo—S:. Regulations Sign Standards
15.40.440 Clearance
Where permitted, awning, projecting, marquee, and suspended signs shall conform to the
following requirements:
1. Vertical clearance: The minimum clearance between the lowest point of a sign and
the grade immediately below shall be 8 feet for public right-of-way and private
sidewalk areas.
2. Horizontal clearance: The minimum horizontal clearance between a sign and the
curb line shall be 2 feet; the maximum projection over a public sidewalk shall be
two-thirds (2/3) the width of the sidewalk or 6 feet, whichever is less.
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 9 8/6/2004 ���
Sign Standards City of.San ;Obispo—Sign Regulations
15.40.460 Sign Standards by District.
The following standards shall be applied in each of the City's zoning districts,
notwithstanding the standards for each sign type established by Section 15.40.470.
Zoning Allowable Sign Total Maximum Special Special Size
District Types Number Cumulative Illumination Restrictions(See
of Signs Sign Area Restrictions . Section
Allowed Per Tenant (See Section 15A0.460)
S ace 15.40.430
All Wall,Free- 1 per 20 square feet Illumination
Residential Standing Post, street (s.f.) is not
Zones Hanging& frontage permitted,
Suspended, exceptfor
Residential directory
Subdivision, signs.
Directory
Office All Sign Types 2 per 50 s.f. See Section
except pole signs tenant 15.40.430 for
space lighting
Restrictions
C-N All Sign Types 2 per 50 s.f. Maximum size
except pole signs tenant per wall sign is
space limited to 25 S.f.2
See 15.40.460 for
monument sign
size limits.
C-R All Sign Types 4 per 200 s.f. See 15.40.460 for
tenant monument sign
space size limits.
C-D All Sign Types 4 per 200 s.f. Internally- See 15.40.460 for
except pole signs tenant illuminated monument sign
space cabinet signs size limits.
prohibited
C-C All Sign Types, 2 per 100 s.f. Maximum Size
except pole signs tenant per wall sign is
space limited to 50 s.f.2.
C-T All Sign Types 2 per 200 s.f.
tenant
s pace
C-S and M All Sign Types, 2 per 200 s.f.
except projecting tenant
&pole signs in the space
M zone
PF All Sign Types, 2 per 100 s.f.
except projecting tenant
&pole signs space
C/OS and Wall,Free- 2 per 50 s.f. All signs over 24
AG Standing Post, tenant square feet in
Monument, space size are subject to
Hanging& Architectural
Suspended Review
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 10 8/6/2004'��
City of San Luis Obispo-S._ Regulations Sign Standards
15.40.470 Sign Standards by Sign Type
This section is intended to be used in conjunction with other standards contained in these
Sign Regulations. In no case may the maximum number or size of signs, or their
illumination levels, exceed the standards provided by Section 15.40.460 (Sign Standards
by District) and Section 15.40.430(Mumination) of these regulations, respectively.
A. Wall Signs
Y4„lS,”
toot
Signage Guidelines
Wall signs include most types of signage that are attached to the face of a building wall.
These include channel letters made out of wood, metal or plastic. Wall signs may be painted
on a wall, or on a board that is attached to a wall. Wall signs should be oriented to achieve
balanced composition and harmony with other architectural elements of a building fagade.
Wall signs should be placed on a flat building surface and should not be placed over or
otherwise obscure architectural building features.
1. Location and Number Permitted
Wall signs must be located on a building face that has a public entrance. The maximum
number of wall signs permitted is two per tenant space.
2. Size
Wall signs may be a maximum of 100 square feet or 15% of the building face where the
sign is attached, whichever is less. Wall signs with changeable copy are limited to 6
square feet.
3. Illumination
Wall signs may be illuminated by any means consistent with Section 15.40.430 of these
Sign Regulations.
4. Zoning
Wall signs are allowed in all zoning districts.
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Sign Standards City of San . .3 Obispo—Sign Regulations
B. Window Signs
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Signage Guidelines
Window signs should be scaled to the pedestrian and oriented to window shoppers on the
sidewalk, as opposed to vehicles passing by. Window signs should be limited to small
graphics and text that serve to frame a window or to provide information. A window sign
should not obscure the view into a store or place of business.
1. Location and Number
There is no specific location requirement or limit to the number of window signs allowed.
A window sign is a sign that is painted on or attached to a window and located within 12-
inches of the face of a window. Window signs do not include business hours of operation
or open/closed signs. Window displays, including merchandise displays, graphics and
text, that are located more than 12 inches from the face of a window are not considered
signs.
2. Size
Window signs are limited to a maximum of 24 square feet or 15% of the window area,
whichever is less.
3. Illumination
Window signs may be illuminated by any means consistent with Section 15.40.430 of
these Sign Regulations.
4. Zoning
Window signs are allowed in all commercial zoning districts.
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City of San Luis Obispo—Sig_ .regulations Sign Standards
C. Awning Signs
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Signage Guidelines
Signs on awnings should be,.minimized and are only.,appropriate if there are no good
alteratives for wall signs, projecting signs or hanging and suspended signs. Signage
should:be limited to the skirt of the awning and should not be on the awning face. Signs
should only be considered for the awning face if there is no other adequate location•for.
signage on a'given storefront or property.
I. Location and Number
Signs may be located on awnings subject to size criteria. One awning sign is permitted:
per'tenant space and must maintain a minimum clearance of 8 feet above any public'
right-of-way or private sidewalk area.
2. Size
Signs on awnings shall not cover more than 25 percent of the main area of the awning, or
exceed 25 square feet in size, whichever is smaller.
3. Illumination
Awning signs may be externally illuminated consistent with Section 15.40.430 of these
Sign Regulations. Back-lit, translucent awning signs are prohibited.
4. Zoning
Awning signs may be located in all commercial zones. Installation of new awnings is
subject to Architectural Review.
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Sign Standards City of San"i Obispo-Sign Regulations
D. Projecting Signs
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Signage_Guidelines
Projecting signs are attached to' a building face and project out perpendicular to the
building wall. Projecting signs are very effective when oriented to pedestrians on the
sidewalk level. Appropriate materials include wood and metal with carved or applied
lettering, or any other material that is architecturally compatible with the building that the
sign is attached to. Multiple.projecting signs should not be installed within 10 feet of each
other if on the same property and should be separated from projecting signs on adjacent
properties by 10 feet to insure proper visibility. .
1. Location and Number
Projecting signs must be attached to building fagades that have a public entrance and
must maintain a minimum clearance of 8 feet above the public right-of-way or private
sidewalk area. One projecting sign is allowed per tenant space.
2. Size
Projecting signs may have a maximum area of 6 square feet in the O (Office), 12 square
feet in the C-N (Neighborhood Commercial), C-D (Downtown Commercial), C-C
(Community Commercial), and 24 square feet in the C-R (Retail Commercial) and C-T
(Tourist Commercial) zoning districts.
3. Illumination
Projecting signs may be illuminated by any means consistent with Section 15.40.430 of
these Sign Regulations.
4. Zoning
Projecting signs are allowed in the O, C-N, C-D, C-C, C-R& C-T zoning districts only.
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City of San Luis Obispo-Si, degulations Sign Standards
E. Hanging and Suspended Signs
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Signage Guidelines
Hanging signs; or suspendedsigns, are used to help define entries and identify business
names to pedestrians. They are small and can hang over a building entry if the appropriate
clearance is provided. Hanging signs can be particularly useful for storefronts that have
multiple tenants.
1. Location and Number
Hanging or suspended signs must be attached to building fagades that have a public
entrance and must maintain a minimum clearance of'8 feet above any public right-of-way
or private sidewalk area. One hanging or suspended sign is allowed per tenant space.
2. Size
Hanging signs may have a maximum area of 8 square feet.,
3. Illumination
Hanging signs and suspended signs may be externally illuminated, although ambient light
is usually sufficient to light these small signs.
4. Zoning
Hanging and suspended signs are allowed in all zoning districts.
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Sign Standards City of San s Obispo—Sign Regulations
F. Monument Signs
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Signage Guidelines
Monument signs are typically used where building setbacks, orientation or design make it
difficult to provide other types of signage, such as wall signs, that are plainly visible to
people that are trying to identify a use. Monument signs have a solid base that the sign
face is installed upon. These signs should be designed so that the style of the sign and its
base are consistent with the architecture of the buildings on the site. They are typically
oriented perpendicular to the adjacent street and sidewalk and have a maximum of two
parallel sign faces. Monument signs provide opportunities for landscaping to enhance
their appearance.
1. Location and Number Permitted
Monument signs may be located in required street yards for any given zone, subject to the
approval of the Community Development Director, as provided for in Section 15.40.410
of these Sign Regulations. Only one monument sign is permitted per premises, per street
frontage.
2. Size
Monument signs may be a maximum of 24 square feet. The maximum height of a
monument sign is 6 feet. In the C-R (Retail Commercial) and C-D (Downtown
Commercial) zoning districts, the maximum size of a monument sign is 12 square feet
and the maximum height is 4 feet. Where two or more uses are located on the same
premises, the sign area for monument signs must be shared. The largest single sign face
is used to calculate the area of monument signs.
3. Illumination
If illumination of monument signs is desired, then external illumination or halo lighting is
preferred. Internally-illuminated cabinet signs must have a dark background with light
lettering,per Section 15.40.430 of these Sign Regulations.
4. Zoning
Monument signs are allowed in all commercial and public facility zoning districts.
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City of San Luis Obispo-Si, .Regulations Sign Standards
G. Free-Standing Post Signs
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Signage Guidelines
Free-standing post signs are primarily used to identify office uses, especially where a
former residence has been converted into an office. They are similar to monument signs,
except they do not have a base other than the support posts, they usually have a single sign
face, and they are usually oriented parallel to the sidewalk instead of perpendicular. The
colors and materials used for the sign must be compatible with the associated building
design. Lettering should be carved, routed or applied as opposed to painted on a flat board.
1. Location and Number
Free-standing post signs may be located in required street yards for any given zone,
subject to the approval of the Community Development Director, as provided for in
Section 15.40.410 of these Sign Regulations. Only one free-standing post sign is
permitted per premises, per street frontage.
2. Size
The maximum sign area for free-standing post signs is 20 square feet. Free-standing post
signs shall not be taller than 6 feet, measured from the ground to the top of the sign
structure. Where two or more uses are located on the same premises, the sign area for
free-standing post signs must be shared.
3. Illumination
Free-standing post signs may be externally illuminated consistent with Section 15.40.430
of these Sign Regulations.
4. Zoning
Free-standing post signs are allowed in all zoning districts.
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Sign Standards City of San L Obispo—Sign Regulations
H. Pole Signs
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Signage Guidelines
Pole signs are primarily intended to communicate with people in automobiles. The sign
structure is typically located on a single pole, but other types of supports may be used.
I. Location and Number
Pole signs are located along arterial streets and must not impact the line of sight of people
in cars to pedestrians or other vehicles in the street right-of-way. They must be located
outside of required yard or setback areas, unless an exception is approved by the ARC
during review of the sign design, as provided for by Section 15.40.410. One pole sign is
permitted per premises along an arterial street frontage.
2. Size
Pole signs may have a maximum height of 16 feet and a maximum area of 72 square feet.
Where two or more uses are located on the same premises, the sign area for pole signs
must be shared.
3. Illumination
Pole signs may be illuminated by any means consistent with Section 15.40.430 of these
Sign Regulations, and subject to ARC approval of the lighting design.
4. Zoning
Pole signs are allowed in the C-R (Commercial Retail), C-S (Commercial Service) and
C-T (Commercial Tourist) zones only, subject to the approval of the ARC.
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City of San Luis Obispo—Sia degulations Sign Standards
I. Sandwich-Board Signs
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Sandwich-board signs can be effective for certain types of uses, such as markets,
restaurants or bakeries that have changing specials and menus. These sign may have re-
writable surfaces, such as chalk boards or dry-erase boards.
I. Location and Number
Sandwich-board signs are prohibited in the public right-of-way and must be placed on
private property. Sandwich-board signs may be located in required street yards for any
given zone, subject to the approval of the Community Development Director, as provided
for in Section 15.40.410 of these Sign Regulations. They may be placed in a front yard
or in a foyer, portico or other building entry provided they do not interfere with
pedestrian ingress or egress as required by the Building Code. Only one sandwich-board
sign is permitted per tenant space.
2. Size
Sandwich-board signs may have a maximum area of 8 square feet and a maximum height
of 4 feet, measured from the ground to the top of the sign structure.
3. Illumination
Sandwich-board signs may not be illuminated.
4. Zoning
Sandwich-board signs are allowed in all commercial zones.
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Sign Standards City of San 1 j Obispo-Sign Regulations
J. Murals
Signage Guidelines
Certain building,walls pfesent opportunities for murals. Murals should'not contain text of
any specific commercial message. Murals that do not contain text or any specific
commercial message can be considered public art.
1. Location and Number
Murals may be located on any building wall. There is no specific limit on the number of
murals permitted.
2. Size
Murals may be any size, subject to the.approval of the ARC.
3. Illumination
Murals may be externally illuminated, consistent with Section 15.40.430 of these Sign
Regulations.
4. Zoning
Murals may be located in all zones, subject to the approval of the ARC.
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City of San Luis Obispo—Si&..Regulations _ Sign Standards
K. Electronic Message Centers
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Signage Guidelines
Electronic message centers (EMCs) come in-different shapes ^and sizes and•typically
have a scrolling message. Some EMCs have interactive computer screens.
1. Location and Number
Electronic message centers may be incorporated into pole signs, mounted or free
standing. One EMC is permitted per premises.
2. Size
The allowable size of an electronic message center is determined as part of Architectural .
Review. If part of a pole sign, the electronic message center may only constitute 10% of
the overall sign area. If mounted on a building or if free standing, the maximum area is 8
square feet. .
3. Illumination
EMC's may be illuminated, consistent with Section 15.40.430 of these Sign Regulations.
4. Zoning
EMC's may be located in all commercial zoning districts, subject to Architectural
Review.
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Sign Standards - City of San L Obispo-Sign Regulations
L. Shopping Center Identification Signs
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Signage Guidelines
Shopping center identification signs should be compatible with the design theme of the
development. They may identify multiple tenants, but larger shopping centers with more
than 5 tenants should avoid listing individual tenants, other than the project anchors, to
avoid sign clutter. The sign structure should contain elements of the design theme of the
buildings in the center.
1. Location and Number
One shopping center identification sign may be located on each major street frontage of a
development.
2. Size
The size of the sign shall be subject to the approval of the ARC and the height is limited
to 16 feet.
3. Illumination
Shopping Center Identification signs may be illuminated consistent with Section
15.40.430 of these Sign Regulations.
4. Zoning
Shopping Center Identification signs may be located in the C-S, C-C or C-R zoning
districts only, subject to the approval of the ARC.
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City of San Luis Obispo—Sign Regulations / Sign Standards
M. Residential Subdivision Signs
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Signage Guidelines
The purpose of residential subdivision signs is to identify the name of a subdivision,
provided the subdivision is not an in-fill project within an established neighborhood.
They are usually monument signs or wall signs placed on a wall feature in a landscaped
open space area at the entry of the development.
1. Location and Number
One residential subdivision sign is allowed at each major street frontage of a subdivision.
They must be located within a landscaped area that is maintained by a homeowner's
association.
2. Size
Each sign may be up to 20 square feet and have a maximum height of four feet.
3. Illumination
Residential subdivision signs may not be internally illuminated.
4. Zoning
Residential subdivision signs are allowed in all zones, subject to the approval of the
ARC.
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Sign Standards City of San L Obispo—Sign Regulations
N. Flags
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Signage Guidelines
Flags shodld be "sized appropriately for the height'and diameter of the proposed pole: '
Recommended Flag and Pole Sizes
Ground Set Poles Roof-Mounted Poles
Exposed Pole Height Flag Size' Exposed Pole Height Flag Size
Ground to To of Pole
16-20' 3'x5 15' 4'x6'
25' 4'x6' 20'-30' 5'x8'
30'-35'- 5'x8' 35'-40' 6'x10'
40'-45' 6'x10' 45'-50' 8'x12'
50' 8'x12' 50'-60' 9'x15'
1. Location and Number
Flag poles shall be located outside of required setback areas. Only one flag pole is
permitted per premises.
2. Size
The size of the flag shall commensurate with the height and diameter of the pole, per
recommended industry standards. The maximum height of the flag pole is the same as
the maximum height for structures, as provided in the Zoning Regulations unless the
ARC determines that additional height is necessary to achieve architectural compatibility
with the proposed flagpole location and surrounding buildings.
3. Illumination
Flags may be illuminated by any means consistent with Section 15.40.430 of these Sign
Regulations, and subject to ARC approval of the lighting design.
4. Zoning
Official flags (Federal, State, local) may be located in all zoning districts, subject to
Architectural Review. Flag signs are allowed in the C-R, C-S and C-T zones only,
subject to the approval of the ARC.
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City of San Luis Obispo—S,� Regulations Sign Standards
O. Directory Signs
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Signage Guidelines
Directory signs are used for multi-tenant buildings to provide a directory of tenant
locations within the building. They may also serve as the address sign for the property.
Directory signs are small scale and are oriented to pedestrians.
11
1. Location and Number
Directory signs may be free standing, or may be fixed on an exterior wall if the building
has no setback. One directory sign may be permitted per premises.
2. Size
Directory signs may be no larger than 12 square feet in area, and individual letters may
not exceed 6 inches in height.
3. Illumination
Directory signs may be illuminated by any means consistent with Section 15.40.430 of
these Sign Regulations.
4. Zoning
Directory signs are allowed in all zoning districts.
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Sign Standards - City of'San L s Obispo-Sign Regulations
15.40.480 Signs Requiring Architectural Review.
The following signs require Architectural Review prior to issuance of a sign permit. The
Community Development Director shall determine if the level of review is aesthetically
insignificant,Minor or Incidental or whether the ARC must review the sign:
A. Animated signs: Signs consisting of or containing any moving, rotating, flashing
or otherwise animated light or component.. . . -
B. Signs requiring exceptions: Any individual sign, or combination of all signs on
any one property, which is not consistent with the height, number, type, location,
setback, size, or maximum area standards prescribed by these Sign Regulations.
C. Sign Program Modifications: Changes to signs or sign programs approved by
the ARC, per Section 15.40.485 of these Sign Regulations.
D. Signs for new commercial development, unless a sign program is approved:
In most cases, the ARC will review signage at the same time that proposed
commercial buildings are 'reviewed.
E. Shopping center identification signs: Shopping center identification signs are
usually reviewed at the same time as architectural plans for the shopping center.
F. Pole signs and Outdoor Advertising Displays.
G. Theater marquees.
H. Murals.
I. Flags.
I Roof Signs: Roofs'having interesting architectural or unique features may be
considered for sign where findings found in Section 15.40.610.A numbers 2,3 and
4 can be made.
K. V-Signs: Any monument sign with the two sign faces positioned at an angle
instead of parallel to each other.
L. Other: Any other sign or visual device which does not, in the determination of
the Community Development Director, comply with the purpose of these Sign
Regulations, or with the design guidelines included in Section 15.40.470, will be
forwarded to the Architectural Review Commission for consideration.
15.40.485 Sign Programs
The ARC may approve a sign program for a particular development or property. In this
case, the requirements of the sign program supercede Article III and Article IV of these
Sign Regulations. Prior to submitting a sign permit application to the Building Division
under a sign program, the program must have been approved by the ARC and all appeal
periods must have expired.
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City of San Luis Obispo—S. Regulations Sign.Permits
Article V. Sign Permits: Application and
Processing Procedures
15.40.500 Permit Required.
No sign shall be-constructed, maintained, displayed or altered without a sign permit
obtained as provided in this chapter, unless the sign is specifically exempted from permit
requirements.
15.40.510 Sign Permit Application - Contents.
Any person desiring to construct, repair, alter or display a sign for which a permit is
required shall submit an application and associated fees, established by resolution of the
City Council, to the Community Development Department.
Such application shall include descriptive material sufficient to enable evaluation of the
proposal's conformance with the Sign,Regulations including at least the following items:
1. A. complete construction permit application and supplemental sign permit
worksheet.
2. A site plan showing existing improvements and proposed sign locations.
3. A detailed plan of the proposed signage, including dimensions and method of
illumination, if any.
4. Samples and descriptions of the proposed sign's colors and materials.
5. Photographs of all existing signage and of the building faces or site areas where
signage is proposed.
The Community Development Department staff will review all sign permit applications
for completeness and consistency with these regulations. Staff will notify the applicant
within 15 days if Architectural Review or an Administrative Use Permit is required.
15.40.520 Architectural Review Application.
When Architectural Review is required (Section 15.40.480), a separate application for
such review together with fees, as established by resolution of the City Council, shall be
filed with the Community Development Department.
15.40.530 Review and Action by the Director.
Within 15 working days after receiving a complete application for a sign permit, which
does not require Architectural Review or the issuance of other permits, the Director of
Community Development shall forward the sign permit application to the Chief Building
Official for issuance. The Director may impose only such conditions as will assure
compliance with the provisions of this chapter.
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Sign Permits - City of San t Obispo-Sign Regulations
15.40.540 Permit Issuance.
The Chief Building Official shall be responsible for issuance of sign permits,
determination of compliance with building code requirements, and inspection of
installation. No sign permit shall be issued until other required permits and approvals,
including Architectural Review, have been issued and granted, and any associated appeal
periods have expired.
15.40.550 Denial
Denial of a sign permit application shall be based on specific findings explaining how the
proposed sign fails to satisfy the evaluation criteria above or other provisions of these
regulations.
15.40.560 Appeals.
A. Community Development Director Decisions.
1. Appeal body: Any discretionary, decision ,of the Community Development _
Director authorized by these regulations may be appealed to the ARC.
2. Filing time: Appeals must be filed in writing at the Community Development
Department within 10 calendar•days of the Director's decision. If the tenth day is a
Saturday, Sunday, or holiday,the appeal,period shall extend to the next use day.
3. Public hearing: Once an appeal has been filed, it shall be considered at the
earliest available ARC meeting, considering public notification requirements. _
B. Architectural Review Commission Decisions.
Any decision of the ARC may be appealed to the City Council in accordance with the
procedures set out in Chapter 1.20 of the Municipal Code.
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City of San Luis Obispo-Sign Regulations Exceptions
Article Vl. Exceptions to Sign Standards
15.40.600 Requests for Exceptions.
Unusual site conditions or other design factors may warrant signs not otherwise permitted
by these regulations. A sign permit application which includes a request for exceptions to
standards established by these regulations is subject to Architectural Review Commission
review and shall include reasons for the request. Exceptions require a separate
application and fees for ARC review, which must be approved before a sign permit will
be issued.
15.40.610 Findings for Approval of an Exception.
Granting an exception to the sign regulations must be based on at least one of the
following findings:
A. There are exceptional or unusual circumstances applying to the property involved
which do nota�pp y 1"'
generally to properties in the vicinity with the same zoning,
such as,but not limited to:
1. The presence of a legal, nonconforming use;
2. Visual obstructions;
3. Unusual building location on-site; -
4. Unusual building'design, architectural style, or historic significance.
B. The sign for which an exception is requested is a nonconforming sign that acts as
a neighborhood landmark or focal point while not disrupting views of prominent
community landscape features. When granting an exception, the ARC or the
Director shall require that as many nonconforming elements of the sign as
possible be eliminated while allowing its basic form and character to remain.
C. The exception is consistent with the intent and purpose of the sign regulations
(see Section 15.40.110) and will not constitute a grant of special privilege or
entitlement inconsistent with limitations applied to other properties in the vicinity
with the same zoning.
D. The sign exception is for superior design will not result in visual clutter and is
consistent with the intent and purpose of these Sign Regulations.
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City of San Luis Obispo-Sign Regulations Maintenance _..d Abandoned Signs
Article VII. Sign Maintenance and Abandoned
Signs
15.40.700 Maintaining Signs
All signs must be maintained in the same. condition as when the sign was installed.
Normal wear and tear of aged signs shall be repaired when they detract from the visible
quality of the sign, as determined by the Community Development Director. When signs
are repaired, they must be done so in a manner (paint colors shall match, etc.) that is
consistent with the approved sign permit or ARC approval for the sign. When signs are
removed, the wall behind the sign shall be repaired and painted to match the rest of the
building wall.
15.40.710 Abandoned Signs
Any sign, including its supporting structure, which no longer identifies the current
occupant after.a lapse,,of 60.days,,shall.be,deemed .an.abandoned,sign..and shall..be . „
removed by the owner of the property on which it is located upon 30 days written notice
by the Community Development Department.
15.40.720 Unsafe Signs
Any sign that, in the opinion of the Chief Building Official, is unsafe or insecure, shall be
deemed an unsafe sign and shall be corrected or removed, together with any supporting
structure, by the owner of the property on which the sign is located, within 72;hours of
written notice by the Community Development Department.
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City of San Luis Obispo—Sign Regulations mconforming Signs
Article Vlll. Nonconforming Signs
15.40.800 Existing Nonconforming Signs - Abatement.
Signs which lawfully existed and were maintained as nonconforming signs prior to
March 12, 1983, have been fully amortized and are subject to abatement, unless
otherwise in compliance with this chapter. The adoption of this chapter shall in no way
extend any abatement period in effect prior to March 12, 1983.
15.40.810 Abatement or Conformance - When required.
Signs which lawfully existed and were maintained and became nonconforming after
March 12, 1983, shall be removed or made to conform within 30 days after written notice
by the Department of Community Development, when;
A. The use of the premises changes and the exterior of the building or other site
conditions are to be altered; or
B. A sign is damaged by any cause resulting in replacement or repair cost equal to or
greater than one-half of its replacement value at the time the damage occurs; or
C. In accordance with the amortization schedule outlined in Section 15.40.820.
15.40.820 Amortization.
A. Signs which lawfully existed and were maintained and became nonconforming after
March 12, 1983, shall be removed or made to conform within 30 days of written
notice by the Community Development Department, in accordance with the
following schedule:
If Twice the Original. Amortization Period
Value of Sign is: (in years)
Less than $500 Two
$500 to $999 Three
$1,000 to $2,999 Five
$3,000 to $5,999 Eight
More than $6,000 Ten
B. The time periods in the schedule set out in subsection A of this section shall
commence on the effective date of the ordinance giving rise to or creating the
nonconforming sign.
C. If more than one sign on a premises is or becomes nonconforming, the original cost
of all such nonconforming signs shall be aggregated for the purpose of determining
the amortization period.
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Nonconforming Sign, City of San 1 Obispo-Sign Regulations
D. The owner or user of a nonconforming sign shall, upon written request of the
Community Development Department, furnish acceptable proof of the initial cost in
the form of:
1. An original bill of sale;
2. A description schedule from state or federal income tax returns; or
3. A written appraisal by a sign manufacturer.
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City of San Luis Obispo—Sign-Regulations Enforcement
Article IX, Enforcement
15.40.900 Type of Offense.
Any person who violates any provision of this ordinance shall be guilty of an infraction.
Violations shall be punishable as set forth in Chapter 1.12 of the San Luis Obispo
Municipal Code. Nothing in this chapter shall be deemed or constituted to prevent the
City from commencing any civil proceeding otherwise authorized by law for the
declaration or abatement of a public nuisance.
15.40.910 Public Nuisance.
If the owner of any premises fails or neglects to comply with the provisions of this
chapter, it shall constitute a public nuisance, pursuant to Chapter 8.24 of the San Luis
Obispo Municipal Code. Any aggrieved party may, in addition to any other right or
remedy he or she may possess either at law or in equity, pursue a private cause of action
to abate a public nuisance, as specified in Chapter 8.24 of the San Luis Municipal Code.
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 35 8/6/2004 ' 1 3
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City of San Luis Obispo—Sign Regulations Definitions
Article X: Definitions
As used in this Chapter, the following terms and phrases shall have the indicated
meanings:
"Architectural Review." Refers to the Architectural Review process authorized by
Municipal Code Section 2.48.090.
"ARC" or "Architectural Review Commission." The Commission with the
jurisdiction to perform Architectural Review, per Section 2.48 of the Municipal Code.
When these Sign Regulations refer specifically to the ARC or Architectural Review
Commission, review by the Commission is required.
"Attention-getting sign." Any sign with moving parts, flashing lights, and/or neon
colors, or signs incorporating pennants, streamers, large helium balloons or any similar
visual device used for the purpose of drawing attention.
"Banner Sign." A flexible sign of lightweight fabric or similar material- typically-
supported at two or more points and hung on a building or otherwise suspended down or
across its face, or across a public right-of-way.
`-Building face." The building face means the whole of a building visible in an elevation
view,excluding sloped roof surfaces.
"Commercial zone." Commercial zone refers to all non-residential zones, regardless of
how the property is actually used.
"Frontage." Frontage is the horizontal distance along a lot line adjacent to a public
street, or the side of a lot adjacent to a public street.
"Height." The height of a sign is the vertical distance from average grade (ground level)
immediately below the sign to the top of the sign - including the support structure and
any projecting design elements.
"Illegal sign." An illegal sign is any sign which does not meet the requirements of this
code and which has not received legal, nonconforming status.
"Non-conforming." A non-conforming sign is a sign which was erected legally, but
which does not now comply with these subsequently enacted Sign Regulations.
"Major Street Frontage." A major street frontage is any arterial road shown in the
City's Circulation Element.
"Marquee." is a building element that is part of a permanent entryway or entry canopy
and traditionally associated with theaters. A marquee sometimes includes a projecting
vertical sign which may extend above the cornice line of a building. The design and
allowable sign area for a marquee are determined by the ARC during their review of the
proposed building and/or marquee.
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 37 8/6/2004 2 (�
Definitions City of San L _.Obispo—Sign Regulations
"Non-residential zone." A non-residential zone is any zone other than the R-1, R-2, R-3,
or R-4 zone, regardless of how the property is actually used.
"Outdoor advertising display." An outdoor_ advertising display is a sign, such as a
billboard, that advertises a product or display
"Premises." Premises means a lot or series of lots under common ownership and/or
developed together as a single development site, regardless of how many uses occupy the
site.
"Public entrance." The public entrance is one or more places of entry to a premises that
are accessible to the general public.
"Roof sign" A roof sign is any sign where any part of the sign is on or over any portion
of any roof, eave, or parapet of a building or structure.
"Sign." A sign is any visual device or representation designed or used for the purpose of
communicating,a message•orj eTtifi_n o,r.attracting :attention to a premises, product,
service, person, organization,business or event, with or without the use of words.
"Sign area" or "area of sign." The area of a sign is the number of square feet of the
smallest rectangle within which an individual sign face can be enclosed.
"Sign face."The sign face is the visible portion of the sign, including all characters,: .
symbols, and structural or nonstructural background (e.g. cabinet frame or .painted
border), but not including the base of a pole sign, monument sign, or free standing sign.
"Storefront." A storefront is a distinct architectural feature that is immediately
accessible from a public sidewalk.and consisting of window displays and entry doors to a
one or more uses.
"Temporary Sign." A temporary sign is a sign that is temporary in nature and that is
displayed for no more than 45 days in a row, or no more than 90 days within any 365 day
period.
"Tenant's building face." The tenant building face is that portion of the building face
enclosing the area of the building occupied by the tenant. In multi-tenant buildings with
interior tenant spaces, each tenant's building face shall be the proportionate share of the
building face enclosing the area occupied by all tenants.
"Window Display." A window display is an arrangement of merchandise, including
graphics and text that is displayed in a building window. Provided the display is located
more than 12 inches back from the inside of the window the display is not considered a
sign.
"V sign." A V sign is a sign consisting of two, essentially equal, sign faces positioned at
an angle less than 180 degrees.
Sign Regulations/Public Review Draft 38 8/6/20,