HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC Res 05-64 - 2005-12-07
RESOLUTION NUMBER 05-64
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL
BEACH RECOMMENDING TO THE CITY
COUNCIL ADOPTION OF A CITY COUNCIL
POLICY STATEMENT ON "GENERAL
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS - MAIN
STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA"
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
DOES HEREBY RESOLVE:
Section 1. The Planning Commission held Study Sessions regarding
the sign regulations for the Main Street Specific Plan Zone area on September 22,
2004, November 3,2004, February 23,2005, May 4,2005 and September 21,2005.
Section 2. At the conclusion of the September 21, 2005 Study
Session the Planning Commission directed staff to schedule a public hearing to consider
proposed amendments to the sign regulations as summarized below:
o Amend Article 2, Definitions, to add new definitions regarding signs;
o Amend Article 18, Sign Provisions, as follows:
o Amend Section 28-1801.D., Calculation of Sign Area;
o Delete existing Section 28-1802.E, Maintenance of Signs, entirely and replace
with a new Section 28-1802.E., Maintenance and Administrative Removal;
o Add new Section 28-1802.F., Legibility of Signs;
o Add new Section 28-1802.G., Material; and
o Add new Section 28-1802.H., Changeable Copy.
o Revise Section 28-1804, Permitted Signs, Sub-Section C. to delete all provisions
regarding the "C-SP" zone provisions (Main Street Specific Plan Area);
o Add a new Sub-Section D, "C-SP Zone" with new sign standards for the Main
Street Specific Plan Area that will;
o Allow the use of neon lighting as the primary illumination method, with the sign
area for neon lit signs being limited to 75% of the maximum allowable area per
the Zoning Ordinance (Section 28-1804.D.5,b.);
o Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination
source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of30% of the allowable sign
area (Section 28-1804.D.5.b.);
o Allow for courtyard signs when businesses do not face Main Street and establish
standards (Section 28-1804.D.5 .d.)
o Allow for monument signs on properties where the building is setback at least 15
feet from the street and establish standards (Section 28-1804.D.5.f.);
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7. 2005
o Allow restaurant menu signs not larger than 6 square feet and establish standards
(Section 28-1804.D.5.g.);
o Allow permanent window signs and establish standards (Section 28-
1804.D.5.h.);
o Establish standards for use of neon lighting (Section 28-1804.D.5 .h.);
o Require the use of external, incandescent lighting for signs with no reflective
surfaces on the sign area with a maximum illumination level on the sign face of
35 candelas/square foot (70 candelas/square foot when facing Pacific Coast
Highway) and establish standards (Section 28-1804.D.5.i.);
o Allow the future use of interior-illuminated channel letters and prohibit the
future use of interior-illuminated "can signs" (Section 28-1804.D.5.i.);
o Allow for the use of a single string of clear string lights to surround window
areas and architectural features, without counting this towards the sign area for
the building (Section 28-1804.D.5.j.);
o Establish a "Planned Sign Program" requirements for certain multi-tenant
buildings and establish standards (Section 28-1804,D.5.k.); and
o Establishes standards for "Temporary Window Signs (Section 28-1804.D.6.).
Section 3. The Planning Commission also determined to recommend
that the City Council adopt a "Policy Statement" on "General Design Guidelines for
Signs - Main Street Specific Plan Area".
Section 4. Pursuant to 14 Calif. Code of Regs. 9 15305, staff has
determined as follows: The proposed "Policy Statement" on "General Design Guidelines
for Signs - Main Street Specific Plan Area" is categorically exempt from review pursuant
to the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to 14 Calif. Code of Regs.
9 15301.g (Existing Facilities - New copy on existing on-premise signs) because it
revises the existing sign regulations within the City for on-premise signs without
allowing for an increase in the allowable sign area of signs within the subject areas of the
City; 9 15305 (Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitations) because it consists of minor
alterations in land use limitations in average slope of less than 20% and does not result in
any changes in land use or density; 9 15311.(a) (Accessory Structures - On-premise
signs) because it revises the existing sign regulations within the City for on-premise
signs without allowing for an increase in the allowable sign area of signs within the
subject areas of the City; and, pursuant to 9 15061(b)(3), because it can be seen with
certainty that there is no possibility that the approval may have a significant effect on the
environment.
Section 5. A duly noticed public hearing was held by the Planning
Commission on December 7, 2005 to consider Zone Text Amendment 05-3 and the
proposed "Policy Statement" on "General Design Guidelines for Signs - Main Street
Specific Plan Area".
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7, 2005
Section 6.
the following:
The record of the hearing of December 7, 2005 indicates
(a) At said public hearing there was oral and written testimony and
evidence received by the Planning Commission.
(b) The proposed "Policy Statement" on "General Design Guidelines
for Signs - Main Street Specific Plan Area" is proposed to establish the following items
for consideration by a property owner or business operator prior to developing a sign plan
within the Main Street Specific Plan Area:
o Color;
o Materials;
o Sign Legibility/Negative Space; and
o Sign Illumination.
(c) During the Study Sessions of the Planning Commission the above
topics were determined to be areas of consideration in developing future signs within the
Main Street area, but not conducive to regulation through the proposed Zoning Code
provisions. The proposed policy statement and the proposed "Design Guidelines" would
not be mandatory on a property owner or business operator, but are intended to present
the position of the City relating to these areas of concern and to enhance the ability of the
City to ensure orderly and planned development in the City regarding designs for on-
premise signs within the Main Street Specific Plan area.
Section 7, Based upon the facts contained in the record, including
those stated in 991 through 6 of this resolution the Planning Commission makes the
following findings:
(a) The proposed "Policy Statement on General Design Guidelines for
Signs - Main Street Specific Plan Area" ("Policy Statement") is consistent with the
provisions of the various elements of the City's General Plan and the proposed Zone Text
Amendment 05-3. Accordingly, the proposed Policy Statement is consistent with the
General Plan. The proposed Policy Statement will not result in changes inconsistent with
the existing provisions of the General Plan.
(b) The proposed Policy Statement will supplement the proposed
revisions to the City's zoning ordinance as recommended in Zone Text Amendment 05-3
and enhance the ability ofthe City to ensure orderly and planned development in the City
through better understanding of the desire's of the City regarding new sign installations
within the Main Street Specific Plan area.
Section 8. Based upon the foregoing, the Planning Commission
hereby recommends approval of "Policy Statement on General Design Guidelines for
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7, 2005
Signs - Main Street Specific Plan Area" to the City Council as set forth on Exhibit A,
attached to this resolution and incorporated herein.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the Planning Commission of the
City of Seal Beach at a meeting thereof held on the 7th day of
December , 2005, by the following vote.
AYES: Commissioners
Deaton, O'Malley, Roberts and Shanks
NOES: Commissioners
ABSENT: Commissioners Ladner
ABSTAIN: Commissioners
~~~
Gordon anks, Chairman
Planning Commission
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7, 2005
"EXHIBIT A"
CITY OF SEAL BEACH
COUNCIL POLICY
SUBJECT
GENERAL DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS -
MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA
SECTION INDEX NO. ISSUE REVISION COUNCIL CM
DATE DATE APPROVAL APPROVAL
600 11 03-15-06 01-23-06
1. SCOPE
This Council Policy applies to all properties within the Main Street Specific
Plan area, as indicated within the Main Street Specific Plan,
2. PURPOSE AND INTENT
To establish the following items for consideration by a property owner or
business operator prior to developing a sign plan within the Main Street
Specific Plan Area:
o Color;
o Materials;
o Sign Legibility/Negative Space; and
o Sign Illumination.
The "Design Guidelines" are not mandatory on a property owner or
business operator, but are intended to present the position of the City
relating to these areas of concern and to enhance the ability of the City to
ensure orderly and planned development in the City regarding designs for
on-premise signs within the Main Street Specific Plan area.
3. POLICY
The attached "Exhibit A", "General Design Guidelines for Signs - Main Street
Specific Plan Area" enhance the ability of the City to ensure orderly and
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7. 2005
planned development in the City regarding designs for on-premise signs
within the Main Street Specific Plan area
4. ISSUANCE
Approved by City Council on January 23, 2006. Effective date is March
15, 2006.
* * * *
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7, 2005
GENERAL DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS -
MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA
General Guidelines:
The following general design guidelines should be considered prior to developing
signs for any project within the Main Street Specific Plan Area:
A. Color:
Color is one of the most important aspects of visual communication. It can
be used to catch the eye or to communicate ideas or feelings. Too many
colors used simultaneously can confuse and negate the message of a
sign. Even the most carefully planned sign may look unattractive due to
poor color selection.
1. Contrast is an important influence on the legibility of signs. Light
letters on a dark background or dark letters on a light background
are most legible.
2. Limit the total number of colors used in anyone sign, preferably
four colors or less (black and white are considered colors). Small
accents of several colors may make a sign unique and attractive,
but the competition of large areas of many different colors
decreases readability.
3. Colors or color combinations that interfere with legibility of the sign
copy or that interfere with viewer identification of other signs should
be avoided. Bright day-glo (fluorescent) colors should be avoided
as they are distracting and do not usually blend well with other
background colors.
4. Sign colors should be harmonious with one another and relate to
and compliment the dominant colors used on the structure, other
structures on a site with multiple structures, and the prevailing
colors in the surrounding area (when a theme can be identified).
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7, 2005
B. Materials.
1. The following materials are recommended for signs:
(a) Wood (carved, sandblasted, etched, and properly sealed,
primed and painted, or stained).
(b) Metal (formed, etched, cast, engraved, and properly primed
and painted or factory coated to protect against corrosion).
(c) High-density pre-formed foam or similar material. New
materials may be very appropriate if properly designed in a
manner consistent with these guidelines, and painted or
otherwise finished to compliment the architecture.
(d) Wall signs painted directly on the structure are encouraged.
(e) Custom neon tubing, in the form of graphics or lettering, may
be incorporated into several of the above permitted sign
types.
2. Sign materials should be compatible with the design of the fa9ade
where they are placed.
3. The selected materials should contribute to the legibility of the sign.
For example, glossy finishes are often difficult to read because of
glare and reflections.
4. Paper and cloth signs are generally not suitable for exterior use
(except on awnings) because they deteriorate quickly. Paper and
cloth signs are appropriate for interior temporary use only.
C. Sian Leaibilitv/Neaative Space.
1. An effective sign should do more than attract attention; it should
communicate its message. Usually, this is a question of the
readability of words and phrases. The most significant influence on
legibility is lettering.
2. Use a brief message whenever possible. The fewer the words, the
more effective the sign. A sign with a brief, succinct message is
easier to read and looks more attractive. Evaluate each word. If
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7, 2005
the word does not contribute directly to the basic message of the
sign, it detracts from it, and probably should be deleted.
3. Avoid spacing letters and words too close together. Crowding of
letters, words or lines will make any sign more difficult to read.
Conversely, over-spacing these elements causes the viewer to
read each item individually, again obscuring the message. As a
general rule, sign copy should not occupy more than 60% of the
sign area.
4. Avoid hard-to-read, overly intricate typefaces, logos, and symbols.
Typefaces, logos, and symbols that are difficult to read reduce the
sign's ability to communicate.
Appropriate Fonts Inappropriate Fonts
Souvenir" if',tedium
--.. - ','---.. --
Fano E..l...,abold
- ~
:Frankl:in Gothic
-
EUI"Dstile Bald
'G'iH Sans Bold
~:::;': E: ~ TN-I
~ !l ""1 4-ft.,. ;-.., r " I
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.; RDDhdl Bl1aelh :
Intricate logos, inappropriate for signage
~7(;;.;,
.~ ;.Wt1#//#
/"C..,0:Y .
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7, 2005
Simple and appropriate logos for signage
~
.
MINQlJA
5. Limit the number of lettering styles in order to increase legibility. A
general rule to follow is to limit the number of different letter types
to no more than two for small signs and three for larger signs.
6. Avoid faddish or unusual typefaces if they are difficult to read.
These typefaces may be in vogue and look good today, but soon
may go out of style. The image conveyed by the sign may quickly
become that of a dated and unfashionable business.
7. Use symbols and logos in the place of words whenever
appropriate. Pictographic images will usually register more quickly
in the viewer's mind that a written message.
8. A sign copy area of between 40% and 60% of the proposed sign
area is appropriate for the street frontage/pedestrian area that
comprises the Main Street Specific Plan Area.
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelinesfor Signs-
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7, 2005
Relationship Between Sian COpy Area
And Neaative Space
GREAT
AMERICAN
DISCOUNT
CENTER
40% Sian COpy Area and
60% Neaative Space
600/0
p", 400/0" '"
'i ~"o ~ ' \-.7': ' \
D. SiQn Illumination.
1. The way in which a sign is to be illuminated should be considered
carefully. Like color, illumination has considerable value for visual
communication.
2. First, consider if the sign needs to be lighted at all. Lights in the
window display may be sufficient to identify the business. This is
particularly true if good window graphics are used. Often, nearby
streetlights provide ample illumination of a sign after dark.
3. If the sign can be illuminated by an indirect source of light, this is
usually the best arrangement because the sign will appear to be
better integrated with the building's architecture. Light fixtures
supported in front of the structure cast light on the sign and
generally a portion of the face of the structures as well. Indirect
lighting emphasizes the continuity of the structure's surface and
signs become an integral part of the facade.
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelinesfor Signs-
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7. 2005
4. Whenever indirect lighting fixtures are used (fluorescent or
incandescent), care should be taken to properly shield and place
the light source to prevent glare from spilling over into residential
areas and any public right-of-way. Signs should be lighted only to
the minimum level required for nighttime readability.
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12 of 14
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13 of 14
Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7. 2005
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Planning Commission Resolution 05-64
Zone Text Amendment 05-3
Adoption of Policy Statement:
"General Design Guidelines for Signs -
Main Street Specific Plan Area"
December 7, 2005
5. Individually illuminated letters, either internally illuminated or
backlighted solid letters (reverse channel), are allowed, Internally
illuminated plastic cabinet signs are no longer permitted within the
Main Street Specific Plan area. Sign's comprised of individual
letters mounted directly on a structure can often use a distinctive
element of the structure's fa~ade as a backdrop, thereby providing
a better integration of the sign with the structure. This requirement
is not intended to preclude the use of diffused exposed neon.
6. The most appropriate type of sign illumination on Main Street is
indirect lighting. Again, indirect lighting helps the signs to appear
as an integral part of the fa~ade, not something that was added
later. Indirect lighting is generally more appropriate for pedestrian-
oriented commercial districts and smaller single buildings. In
addition, indirect lighting produces a more intimate ambience on the
street.
7. All exterior lights and illuminated signs shall:
(a) Be of a white light, such as metal halide, incandescent or a
lamp with a color rendering index above seventy (70); and
(b) Be required to be turned off within 1-hour after business
hours or between midnight and 6:00 a,m., leaving only the
necessary lighting for site and building security for all
nonessential lighting. "Nonessential lighting" shall include
display, aesthetic and sign lighting, and may include parking
lot lighting.
* * * *
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