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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC AG PKT 2006-01-23 #L,J � 15 3, at � �i `�- 1 � � AGENDA REPORT Date: January 23, 2006 To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Attention: John B. Bahorski, City. Manager From: Lee Whittenberg, Director Department of Development Services Subject: PUBLIC HEARING = ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT 05 — 3 r E ADOPTION OF NEW DEFINITIONS RELATING TO SIGNS; ADOPTION OF NEW, GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALL SIGNS; ADOPTION OF NEW ON- PREMISE SIGN STANDARDS WITHIN THE MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA; AND ADOPTION OF CITY COUNCIL POLICY STATEMENT ON "GENERAL DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS — MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA" SUMMARY OF REOUEST: To consider various amendments to the general standards for commercial signs within the community and specific amendments to sign standards for the Main Street Specific Plan Area. Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 proposes the following amendments: ❑ Amend Article 2, Definitions, to add new definitions regarding signs; ❑ Amend Article 18, Sign Provisions, as follows: ❑ Amend Section 18013, Prohibited Signs; ❑ Amend Section 28- 1801.D., Calculation of Sign Area; ❑ Deleting existing Section 28- 1802.D., Abatement of Signs Relating to Inoperative Activities, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.D., Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signing; ❑ Delete existing Section 28- 1802.E., Maintenance of Signs, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.E., Legibility of Signs; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.F., Material; and ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.G., Changeable Copy. ❑ Revise Section 28 -1804, Permitted Signs, Sub - Section C. to delete all provisions regarding the "C -SP" zone provisions (Main Street Specific Plan Area); AGENDA ITEM ZAMy Documents\ZTA\ZTA 05 -3.Sign Standards= Staff Report.doc\LW\01 -12 -06 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ❑ Add a new Sub - Section D, "C -SP Zone" with new sign standards for the Main Street Specific Plan Area that will retain the current provisions for signs within the Main Street area and adopt the following additional provisions: ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of 30% of the allowable sign area (Section 28- 1804.D.5.b.); ❑ Allow for courtyard signs when businesses do not face Main Street and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.d.) ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow restaurant menu and other similar display box signs not larger than 6 square feet and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.g.); ❑ Allow permanent window signs and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ Establish standards for use of neon lighting (Section 28- 1804.D.5.i.); ❑ 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 20 candelas /square foot (70 candelas /square foot when facing Pacific Coast Highway) and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5 j.); ❑ Allow the future use of interior - illuminated channel letters and prohibit the future use of interior - illuminated "can signs" (Section 28- 1804.D.5 j); ❑ 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.k.); ❑ Establish a "Minor Plan Review" or "Planned Sign Program" requirements for certain multi -tenant buildings and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.1.); and ❑ Establishes standards for "Temporary Window Signs (Section 28- 1804.D.6.). ❑ Adopt a Policy Statement regarding "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area" to establish the following items for consideration prior to developing a sign plan within the Main Street Specific Plan Area: ❑ Color; ❑ Materials; ❑ Sign Legibility/Negative Space; and ❑ Sign Illumination. Provided as Attachments 1 and 2 are the proposed Ordinance to adopt the Zone Text Amendment and the proposed Resolution to adopt the proposed Policy Statement on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area". This ordinance and resolution contain the language of the recommended amendments by the Planning Commission to the Zoning Code and the proposed Policy Statement on "General Design ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 2 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code dnd Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area" at the conclusion of their deliberations on these matters. BACKGROUND: Planning Commission Public Hearing -December 7, 2005: On December 7, 2005 the Planning Commission conducted their public hearing on these matters and adopted Planning Commission Resolutions 05 -54 and 05 -64, respectively recommending approval by the City Council of the proposed Zone Text Amendment and Policy. Statement. Please refer to Attachments 3 and 4 to review the adopted Planning Commission resolutions and to Attachment 5 to review the Planning Commission Minutes of the December 7, 2005 public hearing. Please refer to Attachment 6 to review the Planning Commission Staff Report on this matter since much of the information contained within the Planning Commission Staff Report is not repeated again in this Staff Report. Please note that the public hearing was originally scheduled for November 9 and continued to December 7 without any testimony being taken at the November 9 Planning Commission meeting. The public hearing was the end result of an extensive review of the City sign standards and sign illumination standards for the Main Street Specific Plan area and overall sign design and maintenance provisions for the entire City. The Planning Commission conducted five "Study Sessions" regarding these issues and a summary of those Study Sessions is provided in the Planning Commission Staff Report on pages 3 through 11. Overview of Planning Commission Study Sessions: September 22, 2004 Study Session: The Planning Commission conducts its first study session on the issue at the direction of the City Council. An overview of the current signage requirements and standards for Main Street was presented. Copies of sign regulations from Hercules, Novato, and Huntington Beach were provided for review by the Planning Commission. Please refer to Attachment 3 of the Planning Commission Staff Report to review the Minute excerpt of this Planning Commission meeting. As an outgrowth to a code enforcement matter regarding the construction of a non - permitted sign within the Main Street Specific Plan area, staff was requested by the City Council to conduct study sessions with the Planning Commission to consider any applicable amendments to the sign requirements for businesses within the Main Street Specific Plan area. The Main Street Specific Plan was adopted by the City Council in July 1996. The Specific Plan includes provisions regarding `Building and Design Provisions ", and includes sign provisions under Policy 4, Signs. A copy of the complete Main Street Specific Plan is provided as Attachment 11 of the Planning Commission Staff Report. ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards.CC Staff Report 3 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 The provisions of the development standards set forth in the Main Street Specific Plan have also been incorporated into the Zoning Code of the City as the "Main Street Specific Plan Zone ". The provisions in the Zoning Code are consistent with the policy direction and land use controls as set forth in the adopted Main Street Specific Plan. A copy of the "Main Street Specific Plan Zone" provisions is provided as Attachment 12 of the Planning-Commission Staff Report. Provided on pages 9 and 10 of the Planning Commission Staff Report is a general summary of the major sign requirements within the Main Street Specific Plan area, as set forth in Article 18 of the Zoning Code. November 3, 2004 Study Session: Based on the discussion of the Commission at the September 22, 2004 Study Session, staff identified the several areas of concern to investigate regarding future Zoning Code amendments: ❑ Development of a standard for free - standing signs for businesses not built up to the sidewalk. ❑ Development on standards for the use and intensity of lighting for signs, both building and interior, window signs. ❑ Development of standards to require a "Planned Sign Program" to be approved for multi - tenant properties or single -use properties of a certain minimum street frontage or square footage threshold. ❑ Development of regulations on the nature, type and extent of interior, window signs. ❑ Development of maintenance standards for signs. Please refer to Attachment 4 of the Planning Commission Staff Report to review the Minute excerpt of this Planning Commission meeting. February 23, 2005 Study Session: After discussion by the Commission, it concurred that the following areas of concern should be investigated regarding future Zoning Code amendments regarding signage issues along Main Street: ❑ Development of a standard for free - standing signs for businesses not built up to the sidewalk: ❑ Minimum distance from front property line to the building to qualify for such a sign; ❑ Determination of appropriate height and size of such signs Development on standards for the use and intensity of lighting for signs, both building and interior, window signs. ❑ Development of standards to require a "Planned Sign Program" to be approved for multi - tenant properties or single -use properties of a certain minimum street frontage or square footage threshold. ❑ Development of regulations on the nature, type and extent of interior, window signs. ❑ Development of maintenance standards for signs. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 4 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 Staff also prepared as an attachment a document titled "Main Street Sign Provisions — Ordinance Provisions from other Jurisdictions" (Please see Attachment 8 of the Planning Commission Staff Report). This document provided an overview of provisions of 7 other jurisdictions in California regarding the issues identified above. At this study session the Planning Commission also gave direction to staff to proceed with the development of draft ordinance language for several revisions to the sign provisions for the Main Street Specific Plan area as summarized below: ❑ Development of a standard for free - standing signs for businesses not built up to the sidewalk; ❑ Monument Signs; ❑ Courtyard Signs. ❑ Development of standards to require a "Planned Sign Program" to be approved for multi - tenant properties; ❑ Development of regulations on the nature, type and extent of interior, window signs; ❑ Permanent window signs; ❑ Temporary window signs ❑ Development of sign area measurement standards (proposed to apply to all sign regulations); ❑ Development of sign legibility standards (proposed to apply to all sign regulations); ❑ Development of maintenance standards for signs (proposed to apply to all sign regulations); and ❑ Development on standards for the use and intensity of lighting for signs, both building and interior, window signs Please refer to Attachment 5 of the Planning Commission Staff Report to review the Minute excerpt of this Planning Commission meeting. April 11, 2005 City Council Action re: Illumination Consultant: On April 11, 2005 the City Council considered and approved a budget amendment to allow the Planning Department to retain the firms of Downtown Solutions and Konsortuml for professional services related to the illumination level of signs within the Main Street Specific Plan area. May 4, 2005 Study Session: On May 4, 2005 the Planning Commission received a presentation from Downtown Solutions and Konsortuml regarding existing illumination levels of various sign along Main Street to assist the Commission in determining whether to establish an illumination level for business signs. Staff also presented draft ordinance language for Commission consideration on the other matters that the Commission discussed at its February 23, 2005 study session. A copy of the Planning Commission Minute excerpt of this meeting is provided as Attachment 6 of the Planning Commission Staff ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 5 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 Report and the presentation by Downtown Solutions and Konsortum 1 is provided as Attachment 9 of the Planning Commission Staff Report for the information of the City Council. The presentation by Downtown Solutions and Konsortum 1 notes that only one sign location, Corner Drug at 302 Main Street would be in the "Medium" illumination category under the Newport Beach regulations (please note that this sign has recently been removed by the property owner); all of the other signs subject to the study would be in the "Low" category (actually 5 of the 13 measured locations illuminance levels are less than the "Low" level). Please refer to pages 6 through 8 of the Planning Commission Staff Report to review the detailed illumination information provided by Downtown Solutions and Konsortum 1. Newport.Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section20.67.025.I.3 — Illuminated Signs): "Unless otherwise prohibited by this chapter, signs may be illuminated provided such illumination does not interfere with the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties or create any public safety hazards. Exterior light sources shall be shielded from view and directed away from adjacent properties. The Planning Director may order the dimming of any illumination found to be excessively bright, based on the following guidelines: Recommended Sign Luminances Range of Sign Luminance Ambient Light Environment (candelas /square foot) LOW — Areas with no or little exterior lighting, 10 to 45 other than street lighting. Such areas include most residential areas, Newport Bay and the Pacific Ocean. MEDIUM — Areas where signs are relatively 45 to 70 isolated or areas adjacent to "low" ambient light areas. HIGH — Central business districts, highly 70 to 100 lighted streets or parking areas. VERY HIGH — High rise signs and signs in 100 to 140 areas of high sign competition. The consultants also provided information from the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) regarding guidelines for acceptable brightness levels for commercial sign installations, and that information is provided as Attachment 10 of the Planning Commission Staff Report. In reviewing the IES information, it appears that illumination levels in the range of 7 to 50 candelas/square foot are reasonable for lighted fascia and wall signs, both on individual business locations and within shopping centers. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 6 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 Based on the discussions between the Planning Commission, the consultants and staff, the following summary of proposed final revisions to the Main Street Specific Plan Sign Standards are summarized: ❑ Promote 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 (Please note that the final recommendation of the Planning Commission stipulates a 20 candelas /square foot maximum illumination level for new signs within the Main Street Specific Plan area); ❑ 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.. ❑ Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of 30% of the allowable sign area; ❑ Allow the future use of interior - illuminated channel letters and prohibit the use of interior - illuminated "can signs"; ❑ 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 In addition to the items discussed above regarding this Study Session, the Planning Commission also received information from staff on the following topics: ❑ Deletion of Existing Code Standards regarding Sign Content — the Commission determined to recommend revisions to portions of the Code to change references to "political signs" to "temporary noncommercial signs" in the proposed sign revisions. The reason for the change is that although cities can distinguish between commercial and noncommercial signs, they cannot distinguish between types of noncommercial signs. Further, the City cannot enact a durational limit on political signs. Every federal court that has considered durational bans on political signs has found them to be unconstitutional. Staff suggested and the Commission is recommending the imposition of a durational limit, of 60 days, but giving the option of REMOVING or REPLACING the signs. Someone posting a temporary sign would be able to put up a new sign as soon as they took down the old one, but at least signs would not be able to become as severely weathered as signs that have no time limit on them. Staff will propose conforming amendments to make similar changes to the other political sign provisions of Article 18 (Sign Provisions). More information on this issue is provided in Attachment 14 of the Planning Commission Staff Report. ❑ Discussion Regarding Abatement Procedures for Signs that become Legal Non - Conforming if New Standards are Adopted — The commission determined to not establish any abatement procedures for legal, existing signs that would become non- conforming if new sign provisions are adopted, and that the new standards would only apply to new or replacement signs proposed by a project applicant. More information on this issue is provided in Attachment 15 of the Planning Commission Staff Report. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 7 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 September 21, 2005 Study Session: On September 21, 2005 the Planning Commission conducted their final study session, and provided direction to staff to schedule the necessary public hearings to proceed with consideration of the proposed revisions as summarized above, and as discussed in further detail in the following sections of the Planning Commission Staff Report. Please refer to Attachment 7 of the Planning Commission Staff Report to review the Minute Excerpt of this meeting. PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS Provided below is a summary of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Code regarding this Zone Text Amendment. The amendments are broken into three separate sections for discussion and consideration by the City Council: PROPOSED DEFINITIONS TO BE ADDED TO ARTICLE 2, DEFINITIONS, OF THE SEAL BEACH ZONING ORDINANCE: Please refer to Attachment 1, Section 1, pages 19 and 20 to review the definitions of the following terms that are recommended for inclusion in the Zoning Ordinance: ❑ Candela ❑ Negative Space ❑ Sign, Direct Illumination ❑ Channel Letter ❑ Sign Area ❑ Sign, Indirect Illumination ❑ Channel Logo ❑ Sign Copy ❑ Sign, Neon ❑ Logo ❑ Sign Copy Area ❑ Sign, Restaurant Menu PROPOSED SIGN REVISIONS TO APPLY TO ALL SIGNAGE REGULATIONS: Please refer to Attachment 1, Section 2 through 7, pages 21 through 26 to review the recommended language of the following provisions that would apply to all signage regulations of the Zoning Ordinance for new sign installations: ❑ Amend Section 1801.B, Prohibited Signs. ❑ Section 28- 1801.D, Measurement of Signs, is deleted in its entirety and replaced as Section 28- 1801.1), Calculation of Sign Area, with new provisions regarding: ❑ Single -faced Signs; ❑ Double -faced Signs; ❑ Multi -faced Signs; ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards= Staff Report 8 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ❑ Three- Dimensional Signs; and ❑ Sign area measurement. ❑ Section 28- 1802.1), Abatement of Signs Relating to Inoperative Activities, is deleted in its entirety and replaced as Section 28- 1802.D, Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signing, with new provisions regarding: ❑ Maintenance of Signs, and ❑ Administrative Removal. Signs may be removed by the City in the following situations: ❑ Illegal or Dilapidated Signs. ❑ Safety Hazard or on Public Right -Of -Way. ❑ Section 28- 1802.E, Maintenance of Signing, is deleted in its entirety and replaced as Section 28- 1802.E, Legibility of Signs, to establish minimum sign character size to ensure legibility of signs. ❑ Proposed New Section 28- 1802.F, Materials, to be added to establish 'standards for allowable materials for signs, temporary signs, and banners and awning signs. ❑ Proposed New Section 28- 1802.G, Changeable Copy, to be added to establish standards for allowable areas for changeable copy on signs. PROPOSED SIGN REVISIONS TO APPLY TO MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA: Please refer to Attachment 1, Sections 8 and 9, pages 26 through 34 to review the recommended language of the following provisions that would apply to signage regulations of the Zoning Ordinance regarding the Main Street Specific Plan area: ❑ Amend Section 28- 1804.C, LC/RMD, C -O, C -SP, C -1 and C -2 Zones to delete all references to the C -SP Zone and to delete subsection 5.g, which sets forth projecting sign regulations in the C -SP Zone. The C -SP Zone is the Main Street Specific Plan Zone. ❑ Add a new Section 1804.D, C -SP Zone, to establish new standards for the Main Street Specific Plan area that will maintain the current sign provisions for the main Street area in incorporate new provisions regarding: ❑ Temporary Noncommercial signs not to exceed an aggregate surface area of 25 square feet per lot, up to 4 per lot. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed thirty -six inches by forty-eight inches. Said Temporary Noncommercial signs shall be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement. ❑ Courtyard Signs, a new classification of sign type, would be permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards= Staff Report 9 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ❑ Where businesses face a courtyard, and does not directly face Main Street, one single -faced or double -faced freestanding courtyard sign is permitted for tenant identification only, in addition to those on the building. ❑ No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 7 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. ❑ The total area of the sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of site street frontage or 20 square feet, whichever is smaller. ❑ Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 2 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. ❑ Each sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right -of -way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. ❑ Projecting Signs, currently permitted, would be subject to the following additional conditions: ❑ reflect the business by incorporating symbols or logos of the business; and ❑ have supports and brackets that are compatible with the design and scale of the sign. ❑ Monument signs, a new classification of sign type, would be permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: ❑ Where the face of the building sets back from the property line more than 15 feet, one single -faced or double -faced freestanding monument sign is permitted, in addition to those on the building, in accordance with the following: ❑ No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 5 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. ❑ The total area of the sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of street frontage or 40 square feet, whichever is smaller. ❑ Signs shall be located in a landscape planter a minimum of 2 feet wider than the sign itself, with a minimum 2 -foot wide base for the monument sign itself. ❑ Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 3 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. ❑ Landscaping with automatic sprinklers shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign or 75 square feet, whichever is greater. ❑ If the sign is to be lit, all lighting shall be from internal illumination. ❑ Each sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right -of -way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 10 Zone Text Amendment 05-3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ❑ Restaurant Menu and Similar Display Box Signs, a new classification of sign type, would be permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: ❑ Shall be located in a permanently mounted display box on the surface of the building adjacent to the entry. ❑ The allowable area shall be a maximum of 6 square feet and shall be limited to the size of two pages. ❑ Such sign shall be compatible with the scale, colors, and materials of the restaurant storefront. ❑ Such sign shall not be used for additional business identification or additional signage. ❑ Such sign shall not be included in the sign area calculation for the business. ❑ Permanent Window signs, a new classification of sign type, would be permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: ❑ Such signs shall not exceed 20% of the area of each window. ❑ No window sign shall be displayed above the second story. ❑ Such signs shall be limited to individual letters placed on the interior surface of the window and intended to be viewed from the outside. White, black or gold leaf paint are the recommended colors. Glass- mounted graphic logos may be applied by silk screening or pre- spaced vinyl die -cut forms. ❑ Interior Permanent signs within three feet of a storefront window shall be counted as a permanent window sign. ❑ Such signs shall be allowed in addition to the aggregate sign area allowed for wall and projecting signs. ❑ Such signs shall not be illuminated except for neon signs in compliance with Section 28- 1804.D.5.i.6. ❑ Neon signs, clarifying that neon signs are permitted within Main Street, would be permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: ❑ Neon signs and linear tubing shall be UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listed with a maximum 30 milliamps per circuit and shall be designed to accommodate a dimmer in order to reduce the brightness of the neon. ❑ The neon manufacturer shall be registered with Underwriters Laboratories. ❑ Neon tubing shall not exceed one half inch in diameter. ❑ Neon lighting adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed one half footcandle measured at the property line. ❑ Neon tubing shall not be combined with any reflective materials (e.g., highly - glazed tiles, mirrors, polished metal), or other similar material. ❑ Interior neon signs placed within five feet of a storefront window shall have a transparent background and shall be counted as a permanent window sign. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards= Staff Report 11 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ❑ Sign illumination standards would be established for the Main Street Specific Plan area as follows: ❑ Internal illumination is permitted on monument signs, channel letters and channel logos only. ❑ Signs without channel letters and channel logos shall only be externally illuminated. ❑ The permitted range of sign luminance shall be between 5 and 20 candelas per square foot of sign area, except for business properties that have property frontage on Pacific Coast Highway were a maximum of 70 cadelas /square foot is permitted. ❑ Lighting shall be energy efficient, and shielded or recessed so that direct glare and reflections are confined to the maximum extent feasible within the boundaries of the site, and shall be directed downward and away from adjoining properties and public rights -of way. No lighting on private property shall produce an illumination level greater than one footcandle on any property within a residential zoning district except on the site of the light source. ❑ A luminance report shall be prepared by a licensed engineer and submitted to the Director of Development Services within 90 days of the installation of any internal or external illuminated sign indicating compliance with subsections regarding illumination and shielding, above. Such report shall include the method of measurement, results of said measurement, and, if the measurement exceeded the illumination provisions above, the actions taken and resulting measurement information to achieve compliance with said illumination standards. ❑ Outlining of buildings- or components of buildings standards (i.e., doorways, windows, rooflines, architectural features, etc.), by string lighting shall not be considered sign illumination, but shall be approved through the Minor Plan Review process. ❑ Minor Plan Review approval by the Planning Commission shall be required for the signage for a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 2 or 3 separate tenant spaces. In making its determination, the Planning Commission shall consider such factors as the size, location and design of the proposed signs; the type of businesses to which the signs will pertain; the architectural character of the site and surrounding buildings; and the type of other permitted signage in the vicinity of the site. Notice of said request is provided to property owners within 100 feet of the subject property. ❑ A Planned Sign Program shall be required for the signage of a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 4 or more separate tenant spaces.. Notice of said request is provided to property owners within 300 feet of the subject property. ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards.CC Staff Report 12 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ❑ Temporary Window Signs, an new classification of sign type, would be permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: ❑ Combinations of permanent and temporary window signs shall not cover more than 30 percent of any window (50% during December). ❑ No more than one Commercial Temporary Window Signs is allowed per window; ❑ Commercial Temporary Window Signs shall not be posted more than 3 times per calendar year, ❑ Commercial Temporary Window Signs shall not be posted more than 30 days for each period; ❑ A Temporary Sign Permit approval is required to post commercial temporary window signs. PROPOSED CITY COUNCIL POLICY STATEMENT ON "GENERAL DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS - MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLANAREA" The Planning Commission is also recommending adoption of a City Council Policy Statement on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area". The proposed Policy Statement is provided as "Exhibit A" of Attachment 2. This 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: ❑ Color; ❑ Materials; ❑ Sign Legibility/Negative Space; and ❑ Sign Ilfumination. 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 Zoning Code provisions. The policy statement and the proposed "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. RECOMMENDATION: The Planning Commission recommends the City Council, after receiving both written and oral testimony presented during the public hearing, adopt ZTA 05 -3 and adopt the City Council ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 13 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 Policy Statement on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area ", as may be revised by the City Council after consideration of all public testimony. Staff has prepared the appropriate Ordinance and Resolution for consideration by the City Council to adopt ZTA 05 -3 and the City Council Policy Statement on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area ", respectively. Please refer to Attachment 1 to review the required Ordinance to adopt the provisions of ZTA 05 -3 and to Attachment 2 to review the required Resolution to adopt the City Council Policy Statement on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area ". Should the City Council disagree with the recommendations of the Planning Commission, it has the option of determining to make no change to the existing provisions of the Zoning Code relating to Main Street sign regulations or referring back to the Commission the matter to consider any new proposals that were not considered as part of the Planning Commission deliberations.. Whittenberg, Director Department of Development Services Attachments: (6) NOTED AND APPROVED e YotsuiW Assistant City Manager Attachment l: Ordinance Number , An Ordinance of the City of Seal Beach Amending the Municipal Code of the City of Seal Beach to Adopt New Definitions Relating to Signs; Adopt New General Provisions for All Signs; and Adopt New On- Premise Sign Standards Within the Main Street Specific Plan Area (Zone Text Amendment 05 -3) Attachment 2: Resolution Number , A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Seal Beach Adopting City Council Policy Statement 600 -11 on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area" Attachment 3: Resolution Number 05 -54, A Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Seal Beach Recommending to the City Council Approval of Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3, Adopting New Definitions Relating to Signs; Adopting New General ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 14 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council StafJ°'Report January 23, 2006 Provisions for All Signs; and Adopting New On- Premise Sign Standards within the Main Street Specific Plan Area Attachment 4: 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" Attachment 5: December 7, 2005 Planning Commission Minute Excerpt Attachment 6: Planning Commission Staff Report re: Zone Text Amendment 05 -3, dated November 9, 2005 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards= Staff Report 15 PUBLIC HEARING THIS IS THE TIME AND PLACE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT 05 -3 (GENERAL DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS — MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA). MRS. DEVINE, HAVE NOTICES BEEN POSTED AND /OR ADVERTISED AND MAILED AS REQUIRED BY LAW, AND HAVE YOU RECEIVED ANY COMMUNICATIONS EITHER FOR OR AGAINST THE MATTER? CITY MANAGER, IS THERE A STAFF REPORT? WRITTEN AND ORAL COMMUNICATIONS RELATING TO THE PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE RECEIVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL. ARE THERE MEMBERS OF THE AUDIENCE WHO WISH TO SPEAK IN FAVOR OF THE PROPOSED MATTER? IF SO, PLEASE COME TO THE MICROPHONE. ARE THERE MEMBERS OF THE AUDIENCE WHO WISH TO SPEAK IN OPPOSITION TO THE PROPOSED MATTER? IF SO, PLEASE COME TO THE MICROPHONE. I HEREBY DECLARE THE PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED. (Action by Ordinance and Resolution) Agenda Item L a To Seal Beach City Council From: Dublin Hair Company/Roger Northrup Re: Seal Beach Classic Auto Show+ 23/01/06 CO We support the Chamber of Commerce's plan for the next Seal Beach Classic Auto show. We would like to see the autos parked on both sides of the street approximately 4 feet from the footpath to allow access to Main Street business by pedestrian traffic and to keep the vehicles safe. We would also like to see the show take place on Sunday as Saturday is already a busy day on Maim Street. We urge the City Council to help Seal Beach Business succeed. Kind regards, Roger Northrup/Dublin hair Company Zone Text Amendment 05-3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ATTACHMENT 1 ORDINANCE NUMBER , AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH TO ADOPT NEW DEFINITIONS RELATING TO SIGNS; ADOPT NEW GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALL SIGNS; AND ADOPT NEW ON- PREMISE SIGN STANDARDS WITHIN THE MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA (ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT 05 -3) ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 16 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ORDINANCE NUMBER AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH TO ADOPT NEW DEFINITIONS RELATING TO SIGNS; ADOPT NEW GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALL SIGNS; AND ADOPT NEW ON- PREMISE SIGN STANDARDS WITHIN THE MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA (ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT 05 -3) WHEREAS, 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, and WHEREAS, 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: ❑ Amend Article 2, Definitions, to add new definitions regarding signs; ❑ Amend Article 18, Sign Provisions, as follows: ❑ Amend Section 28- 1801.D., Calculation of Sign Area; ❑ Deleting existing Section 28- 1802.D., Abatement of Signs Relating to Inoperative Activities, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.D., Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signing; ❑ Delete existing Section 28- 1802.E., Maintenance of Signs, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.E., Legibility of Signs; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.F., Material; and ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.G., Changeable Copy. ❑ Revise Section 28 -1804, Permitted Signs, Sub - Section C. to delete all provisions regarding the "C -SP" zone provisions (Main Street Specific Plan Area); ❑ Add a new Sub - Section D, "C -SP Zone" with new sign standards for the Main Street Specific Plan Area that will retain the current provisions for signs within the Main Street Specific Plan area and adopt the following additional provisions; ❑ 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.); ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards= Staff Report 17 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Stafj"Report January 23, 2006 ❑ Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of 30% of the allowable sign area (Section 28- 1804.D.5.b.); ❑ Allow for courtyard signs when businesses do not face Main Street and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.d.) ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow restaurant menu signs and other similar display box signs not larger than 6 square feet and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.g.); ❑ Allow permanent window signs and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ Establish standards for use of neon lighting (Section 28- 1804.D.5.i.); ❑ 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 j.); ❑ Allow the future use of interior - illuminated channel letters and prohibit the future use of interior - illuminated "can signs" (Section 28- 1804.D.5 j.); ❑ 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.k.); ❑ Establish a "Planned Sign Program" requirements for certain multi -tenant buildings and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.1.); and ❑ Establishes standards for "Temporary Window Signs (Section 28- 1804.D.6.), and WHEREAS, Pursuant to 14 Calif. Code of Regs. § 15305, staff has determined as follows: The application for Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 is categorically exempt from review, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to 14 Calif. Code of Regs. § 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; § 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; § 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 § 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, and WHEREAS, A duly noticed public hearing was held by the Planning Commission on December 7, 2005 to consider Zone Text Amendment 05 -3, and WHEREAS, The record of the hearing of December 7, 2005 indicates the following: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards= Staff Report 18 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 (a) At said public hearing there was oral and written testimony and evidence received by the Planning Commission. (b) The proposed text amendment will revise the City's zoning ordinance and enhance the ability of the City to ensure orderly and planned development in the City through an amendment of the zoning requirements for on- premise signs throughout the community and particularly within the Main Street Specific Plan area, and WHEREAS, Based upon the facts contained in the record, including those stated above and pursuant to §§ 28 -2600 of the City's Code, the Planning Commission made the following findings: (a) Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 , is consistent with the provisions of the various elements of the City's General Plan. Accordingly, the proposed new sign regulations are consistent with the General Plan. The proposed amendment will not result in changes inconsistent with the existing provisions of the General Plan. (b) The proposed text amendment will revise the City's zoning ordinance and enhance the ability of the City to ensure orderly and planned development in the City through an amendment of the zoning requirements for on- premise signs throughout the community and particularly within the Main Street Specific Plan area, and WHEREAS, The Planning Commission recommended approval of Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 to the City Council through the adoption of Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54; and WHEREAS, On January 23, 2006 the City Council conducted a public hearing to consider Zone Text Amendment 05 -3, and received testimony regarding the proposed Zone Text Amendment. NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. Article 2, Definitions, of Title 28 of The City of Seal Beach Municipal Code is amended to add the following definitions of terms: "Section 28 -216.5 Candela. "Candela" means a measure of light intensity. A candela is equal to 1/60 of the luminous intensity per square centimeter of a blackbody radiating at the temperature of solidification of platinum (2.046 degrees Kelvin)." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 19 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 "Section 28 -217.1 Channel Letter. "Channel Letter" means three - dimensional, individually cut letters or figures, illuminated or non - illuminated, attached to a structure." "Section 28 -217.3 Channel Logo. "Channel Logo" means three- dimensional, individually cut trademark or symbol identifying a product or use, illuminated or non - illuminated, attached to a structure." "Section 28 -246.5 Logo. "Logo" means an established trademark or symbol identifying a product or use." "Section 28 -261 Neigative Space. "Negative space" means the open space surrounding the sign copy area of a sign area." "Section 28 -271.2 Sign Area. "Sign Area" means the entire area within a single continuous perimeter of not more than eight straight lines that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags." "Section 28 -271.3 Sign Copy. "Sign Copy means the any graphic, word, numeral, symbol, insignia, text, sample, model, device or combination thereof which is primarily intended to advertise, identify, or notify." "Section 28 -271.4 Sign Copy Area. "Sign Copy Area" means the sign area occupied by copy. It is computed by measuring the area enclosed by straight lines drawn to enclose the extremities of the letters or numbers contained within said sign area." "Section 28 -271.5 Sign, Direct Illumination. "Sign, Direct Illumination" means a sign illuminated primarily by light whose source is located in the interior of the sign so that the rays of the light source are transmitted through a translucent material." "Section 28 -271.6 Sign, Indirect Illumination. "Sign, Indirect Illumination" means a sign illuminated primarily by light directed toward or across it by backlighting from a source not within it. Sources of illumination for such signs may be in the form. of gooseneck lamps, spotlights, or luminous tubing." "Section 28 -271.7 Sign, Neon. "Sign, Neon" means an illuminated sign affected by a colorless, odorless light source consisting of a neon or gas tube that is bent to form letters, symbols, or other shapes." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 20 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 "Section 28 -271.8 Sign, Restaurant Menu and Similar Display Box Signs. "Sign, Restaurant Menu and Similar Display Box Signs" means a sign used to inform the public of the list of entrees, dishes, and foods available in a restaurant or other items available in stores that utilize such display box signs ." Section 2. Section 28- 18013, Prohibited Signs, sub - section 1, is revised to add a second sentence to read as indicated: 641. Signs which incorporate any manner of flashing, moving or intermittent lighting. Moreover, sign illumination shall not blink, flutter, or change light intensity, brightness, or color." Section 3. Article 18, Sign Provisions, Section 28- 1801.D is deleted in its entirety and replaced as follows: "D. Calculation of Sign Area. The area of an individual sign shall be calculated as follows. 1. Single -faced Signs. Sign area shall include the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight lines that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and . color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags. The calculation of sign area for various types of single -faced signs is illustrated in Figure 1. Figure 1 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards= Staff Report 21 Sign Area = Height xWdth FRAMED SIGN Width ----------------- ---------------- low ---- ------------------------------------------ Width —� - --- ----- -------- -- --- tz ��-g.g Emblem .3 or Decal ------ ------------------ I- Width — ------------ - ------------ Odd Shape ---------- a ---- Width,� - - ------- -- Angled ZTA 05-3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 22 Zone Text Amendment 05-3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council StaffReport fn"11-1 7 7 2006 Width -------------------------------------------- : ------ Le ----------------------------------- - -- -- --- T Multiple LOGO ;:Y j_ `Elements' ------------------------------------ --------- ---- Width - --i. T X I Width --------- - ---------------------- -OdIr, broo""-- ------ - ---------------- ---- Width --------------------------- -T- 2P Odd Shape Width Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 2. Double -faced Signs. Where two faces of a double -faced sign are located two feet or less from one another at all points, or located at an interior angle of 45 degrees or less from one another, the sign area shall be computed as the area of one face. Where the two faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face shall be used. Where two faces of a double -faced sign are located more than two feet or 45 degrees from one another, both sign faces shall be counted toward sign area. See Figure 2. Q LL° m V IL Figure 2 Where distance between faces does not exceed 2 feet and interior angle does not exceed 45 °, total sign area = Face or Face B, whichever is larger. 3. Multi -faced Signs. On a three -faced sign, where at least one interior angle is 45 degrees or less, the area of two faces (the largest and smallest face) shall be summed to determine sign area. In all other situations involving a sign with three or more sides, sign area shall be calculated as the sum of all faces. 4. Three - Dimensional Signs. Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three - dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue -like trademarks), shall have a sign area of the sum of all areas using the four vertical sides of the smallest cube that will encompass the sign. See Figure 3. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 23 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 Figure 3 .� Face B . •ice •�!� cep _--C �i Total sign area = Sum of all vertical sign faces C smallest cube encompassing th ___.•�/ h the sign. •� i ----------- 5. Sign area measurement. The measurement of sign area to determine compliance with the sign area limitations of this Chapter shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all framing, emblem, logo, representation, writing, or other display within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight lines. See Figure 4. Figure 4 • � I Ell J Oh ES I 2' 5 JOSS DRY aYE1EANES f, ;ttr:MEas 5� il�►�rv«r�E Uilkej- 2.'a ?A.L Sur F,ba- 17.5at It Sark *a -32 so. Section 4. Article 18, Sign Provisions, Section 28- 1802.D, Abatement of Signs Relating to Inoperative Activities is deleted in its entirety and is revised to read: "Section 28- 1802.D. Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signing. 1. Maintenance of Signs. All signs, together with all of their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be properly maintained with respect to appearance, structural and electrical features. The display surfaces of all signs shall be ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 24 Zone Text Amendment 05-3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 kept neatly painted or posted at all times. All signs shall be subject to maintenance provisions as follows: a. Any location where business goods are no longer sold or produced or where services are no longer provided shall have 90 days to remove any remaining or derelict signs following notification by the City and at the expense of said property. Where the written notification has been given by the City and compliance has not been met within the required 90 day period, the City may cause the removal of such signs with the cost for such removal to be attached to the property. b. All signs shall be refinished to remove rust or other corrosion due to the elements and any cracked or broken faces and malfunctioning lamps shall be replaced within 90 days following notification to the City. C. Signs erected, installed, located or maintained in the city must comply with all applicable structural provisions of the most recently adopted versions of the Uniform Sign Code, California Building Code, and California Electrical Code adopted by the City. d. When a sign is replaced or removed, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that supported the sign shall also be removed. Affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the adjacent portion of the structure within 30 days of said replacement or removal. 2. Administrative Removal. Signs may be removed by the City in accordance with the following procedures: a. Illegal or Dilapidated Signs. If the Director of Development Services, or his designee, finds that a permanent sign is in violation of this Chapter, or is in disrepair, deteriorated, including peeling paint, prohibited, abandoned, illegal, or is in violation of the Building Code or any other laws and ordinances, he shall seek correction of the violations as provided for in the Municipal Code. The Director of Development Services shall inform the sign owner by a written notice that the sign is to be removed. b. Safety Hazard or on Public Right -Of -Way. The City Engineer, or his designee, without giving notice, shall have the authority to authorize removal of any sign which: (1) Poses an immediate threat to public safety; or (2) Is displayed in violation of the provisions of this Chapter or other City ordinances on or over any public right -of- way." Section 5. Article 18, Sign Provisions, Section 28- 1802.E, Maintenance of Signing is deleted in its entirety and is revised to read: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 25 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 "E. Legibility of Signs. Lettering on signs should be legible. Preferred character sizes for signs are as follows: Minimum Character Size (inches) Intended Reading Distance (feet) 3.5 60 4.0 70 4.5 80 5.0 90 5.5 100 or more Section 6. Article 18, Sign Provisions, is revised to add new Section 28- 1802.F, Materials, to read: 'T. Materials. Paper, cardboard, or other material subject to rapid deterioration shall be limited to signs displayed for no more than 60 days. Fabric signs shall be restricted to City Banners, Awning Signs, and Temporary Signs permitted pursuant to Section 28- 1801.C." - Section 7. Article 18, Sign Provisions, is revised to add new Section 28- 1802.G, Changeable Copy, to read: "G. Changeable Copy. Changeable copy shall cover no more than 20 percent of the total sign area, except for the following uses which are allowed up to 75 percent of sign area to be changeable copy: all public and civic uses, indoor theaters, other public assembly uses, and fuel price signs." Section 8. Article 18, Sign Provisions, Section 28- 1804.C, LC/RMD, C -O, C -SP, C -1 and C -2 Zones, is amended to delete all references to the C -SP Zone and to delete subsection 5.g, which sets forth projecting sign regulations in the C -SP Zone, and is amended to read: "C. LC/RMD, C -O, C -1 and C -2 Zones. The following signs are permitted in the LC/RMD, C -O, C -1 and C -2 zones: 1. One unlighted sign pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of the property on which the sign is displayed. ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards.CC Staff Report 26 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ParcelSize ........................................................ ............................... Sim Size Lots of record and parcels not exceeding: 10,000 square feet ............................................... ............................... 6 sq. ft. 10,000 square feet to 1 acre .............................. ............................... 25 sq. ft. More than 1 acre ............................................... ............................... 50 sq. ft. 2. Temporary Noncommercial signs that do not exceed an aggregate surface area of 25 square feet per lot, up to 4 per lot. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed thirty -six inches by forty-eight inches. Said Temporary Noncommercial signs shall be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement. 3. Construction signs under the same restrictions as Section 28- 1804.A.4. 4. For each shopping center, identification signs are permitted as follows: a. One free - standing or pole identification sign containing the name and logo of the center. Sign not to exceed 15 feet in overall height and not to exceed 60 square feet on one face of a double -faced sign. b. One monument sign not to exceed 10 square feet in area and not to exceed 4 feet in height at each traffic entrance to the center, in no case shall more than 4 monument signs be placed in any shopping center. 5. Each commercial activity may have signing identifying the activity on the premises as follows: a. One sign per building face which is visible from streets or parking lot area. Said sign to be fascia or wall sign. b. Size of fascia or wall sign shall be one square foot per lineal foot of building face, not to exceed 100 square feet per sign. C. Inf lieu of one or more fascia or wall signs, one free- standing or pole sign not to exceed 15 feet in overall height may be erected on the parcel or building site on which the building is located. Maximum size of sign shall not exceed 60 square feet per face of a double faced sign. d. In case of buildings having less than 25 linear feet of frontage on a street, 25 square feet of signing will be permitted. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 27 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 e. In cases where a business is located on a street with a speed limit of 35 mph or more, a free standing sign or larger fascia or wall sign will be permitted. The larger may be an additional one -half square foot per lineal foot of building frontage not to exceed 80 additional square feet. (See subparagraphs a, b, c, above). The maximum sign area per sign of 100 square feet does not apply in this case. f. No more than 2 items of information will be permitted per sign. An example of one item of information would be the name of the business, specialty item, unique service, etc. 6. When property falls under an adopted planned sign_ program the above provisions do not apply." Section 9. Article 18, Sign Provisions, Section 1804.1), C -SP Zone, is added to read: "D. C -SP Zone.. The following signs are permitted in the C -SP zone: 1. One unlighted sign pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of the property on which the sign is displayed. Parcel Size Sign Size Lots of record and parcels not exceeding: 10,000 square feet ............................................... ............................... 6 sq. ft. 10,000 square feet to 1 acre .............................. ............................... 25 sq. ft. Morethan 1 acre ............................................... ............................... 50 sq. ft. 2. Temporary Noncommercial signs that do not exceed an aggregate surface area of 25 square feet per lot, up to 4 per lot. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed 26 inches by 48 inches. Said Temporary Noncommercial signs shall be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement. 3.- Construction signs under the same restrictions as Section 28- 1804.A.4. 4. For each shopping center, identification signs are permitted as follows: a. One free - standing or pole identification sign containing the name and logo of the center. Sign not to exceed 15 feet in overall height and not to exceed 60 square feet on one face of a double -faced sign. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 28 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 b. One monument sign not to exceed 10 square feet in area and not to exceed 4 feet in height at each traffic entrance to the center, in no case shall more than 4 monument signs be placed in any shopping center. 5. Each commercial activity may have signing identifying the activity on the premises as follows: a. One sign per building face which is visible from streets or parking lot area. Said sign to be a fascia or wall sign. b. Size of the fascia or wall sign shall be one square foot per lineal foot of building face, not to exceed 100 square feet per sign. (1) Fascia or wall signs that utilize neon lighting exclusively shall be reduced in size (2) A fascia or wall sign may utilize neon lighting on not more than 30% of the sign_copy area and not be required to reduce the allowable sign area. (Note: The Planning Commission is heing requested to confirm the deletion of these 2 suh- sections. Staff will inform the City Cauncil of the Commission intent verbally during the public hearing) C. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where buildings have less than 25 linear feet of frontage on a street, 25 square feet of signing will be permitted. d. Courtyard Signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Where businesses face a courtyard, and do not directly face Main Street, one Single -faced or double - faced freestanding courtyard sign is permitted for tenant identification only, in addition to those on the building. (2) No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 7 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. (3) The total area of the courtyard sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of site street frontage or 20 square feet, whichever is smaller. (4) Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 2 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. (5) Each courtyard sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards.CC Staff Report 29 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 visible from the public right -of -way. Address plates 'shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. e. Projecting signs shall be allowed subject to the following conditions: (1) "Projecting sign" means an attached sign (other than a flat - mounted sign) which projects out from a building or structure and usually has two message surfaces. (2) Projecting signs shall be allowed that: ❑ do not exceed four (4) square feet in area per side; ❑ project no more than three (3) feet from the wall to which attached; ❑ are located at least seven (7) feet but not more than twelve (12) feet above grade; ❑ reflect the business by incorporating symbols or logos of the business; ❑ have supports and brackets that are compatible with the design and scale of the sign; and ❑ are not internally or externally illuminated. (3) Each ground -level occupancy frontage may have one (1) such projecting sign if such sign is located near its primary entryway. Such sign shall be in addition to other signs allowed in Section 28- 1804.E.5. (4) No sign shall project into any public right -of -way unless the Director of Public Works shall have first issued an encroachment permit therefor. f. A monument sign is permitted subject to the following requirements and-conditions: (1) Where the face of the building sets back from the property line more than 15 feet, one single -faced or double -faced freestanding monument sign is permitted, in addition to those on the building, in accordance with the following: ❑ No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 5 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. ❑ The total area of the sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of street frontage or 40 square feet, whichever is smaller. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 30 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ❑ Signs shall be located in a landscape planter a minimum of 2 feet wider than the sign itself, with a minimum 2 -foot wide base for the monument sign itself. ❑ Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 3 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. ❑ Landscaping with automatic sprinklers shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign or 75 square feet, whichever is greater. ❑ If the sign is to be lit, all lighting shall be from internal illumination. ❑ Each monument sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right -of- way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. g. Restaurant Menu Signs and similar display box signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Shall be located in a permanently mounted display box on the surface of the building adjacent to the entry. (2) The allowable area shall be a maximum of 6 square feet and shall be limited to the size of two pages. (3) Such sign shall be compatible with the scale, colors, and materials of the storefront. (4) Such sign shall not be used for additional business identification or additional signage. (5) Such sign shall not be included in the sign area calculation for the business. h. Permanent Window signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Permanent window signs shall not exceed 20% of the area of each window. (2) No window sign shall be displayed above the second story. (3) Permanent window signs shall be limited to individual letters placed on the interior surface of the window and intended to be viewed from the outside. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 31 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff fJ'Report January 13, 2006 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards= Staff Report 32 White, black or gold leaf paint are the recommended colors. Glass - mounted graphic logos may be applied by silk screening or pre- spaced vinyl die -cut forms. (4) Interior Permanent signs within 3 feet of a storefront window shall be counted as a permanent window sign. (5) Permanent Window signs shall be allowed in addition to the aggregate sign area allowed for wall and projecting signs. (6) Permanent window signs shall not be illuminated, except for neon signs illuminated in compliance with Section 28- 1804.D.5.i.6. i. Neon signs are permitted - subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Neon signs and linear tubing shall be UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listed with a maximum 30 milliamps per circuit and shall be designed to accommodate a dimmer in order to reduce the brightness of the neon. (2) The neon manufacturer - shall be registered with Underwriters Laboratories. (3) Neon tubing shall not exceed one half inch in diameter. (4) Neon lighting adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed 0.5 footcandle measured at the property line. (5) Neon tubing shall not be combined with any reflective materials (e.g., highly - glazed tiles, mirrors, polished metal), or other similar material. (6) Interior neon signs placed within 5 feet of a storefront window shall have a transparent background and shall be counted as a permanent window sign. j. Sign illumination is subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Internal illumination is permitted on monument signs, channel letters and channel logos only (2) Signs without channel letters and channel logos shall only be externally illuminated. (3) The permitted range of sign illumination shall be between 5 and 20 candelas per square foot of sign area, except for business properties that have property frontage on Pacific Coast Highway where a maximum of 70 candelas/square foot is permitted. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards= Staff Report 32 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 (4) Lighting shall be energy efficient, and shielded or recessed so that direct glare and reflections are confined to the maximum extent feasible within the boundaries of the site, and shall be directed downward and away from adjoining properties and public rights -of way. No lighting on private property shall produce an illumination level greater than 1 footcandle on any property within a residential zoning district except on the site of the light source. (5) A luminance report shall be prepared by a licensed engineer and submitted to the Director of Development Services within 90 days of the installation of any internal or external illuminated sign indicating compliance with subsections (3) and (4), above. Such report shall include the method of measurement, results of said measurement, and, if the measurement exceeded the provisions of subsection (3) above, the actions taken and resulting measurement information to achieve compliance with said subsection (3). k. Outlining of buildings or components of buildings (i.e., doorways, windows, rooflines, architectural features, etc.) by string lighting shall not be considered sign illumination, but shall be approved through the Minor Plan Review process. 1. Additional Review. (1) A Minor Plan Review approval by the Planning Commission shall be required for the signage for a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 2 or 3 separate tenant spaces. In making its determination, the Planning Commission shall consider such factors as the size, location and design of the proposed signs; the type of businesses to which the signs will pertain; the architectural character of the site and surrounding buildings; and the type of other permitted signage in the vicinity of the site. (2) A Planned Sign Program shall be required for the signage of a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 4 or more separate tenant ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards= Staff Report 33 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Stafj°'Report January 23, 2006 spaces, pursuant to subsections C and D of Section 28 -1803. When property falls under an adopted planned sign program, the above subparagraphs a through 1 and Section 1804.D.4 do not apply. 6. Temporary Window Signs: a. Combinations of permanent and temporary window signs shall not cover more than 30 percent of any window (50% during December). b. No more than one temporary window sign is allowed per window; C. Commercial temporary window signs shall not be posted more than 3 times per calendar year, d. Commercial temporary window signs shall not be posted more than 30 days for each period; e. A Temporary Sign Permit approval is required to post commercial temporary window signs." Section 10. Severability. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance or any part thereof is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase be declared invalid or unconstitutional. Section 11. The City Clerk shall cause this ordinance to be published in accordance with applicable law. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Seal Beach at a meeting thereof held on the day of , 2006. Mayor ATTEST: City Clerk ZTA 05- 3.Sign Stwdards= Staff Report 34 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF ORANGE ) SS CITY OF SEAL BEACH } I, Linda Devine, City Clerk of the City of Seal Beach, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance is an original copy of Ordinance Number on file in the office of the City Clerk, introduced at a meeting held on the day of , 2006, and passed, approved and adopted by the City Council of the City of Seal Beach at a meeting held on the day of , 2006 by the following vote: AYES: Councilmembers NOES: Councilmembers ABSENT: Councilmembers ABSTAIN: Councilmembers and do hereby further certify that Ordinance Number _ Seal Beach City Charter and Resolution Number 2836. City Clerk ZTA 05 -3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 35 has been published pursuant to the Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ATTACHMENT 2 RESOLUTION NUMBER , A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH ADOPTING CITY COUNCIL POLICY STATEMENT 600 -11 ON "GENERAL DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS - MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA" ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 36 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 RESOLUTION NUMBER A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH ADOPTING CITY COUNCIL POLICY STATEMENT 600 -11 ON "GENERAL DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS - MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA" WHEREAS, 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, and WHEREAS, 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: ❑ Amend Article 2, Definitions, to add new definitions regarding signs; ❑ Amend Article 18, Sign Provisions, as follows: ❑ Amend Section 28- 1801.D., Calculation of Sign Area; ❑ Delete existing Section 28- 1802.D., Abatement of Signs Relating to Inoperative Activities, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.D., Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signing; ❑ Delete existing Section 28- 1802.E., Maintenance of Signs, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.E., Legibility of Signs; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.F., Material; and ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.G., Changeable Copy. ❑ Revise Section 28 -1804, Permitted Signs, Sub - Section C. to delete all provisions regarding the "C -SP" zone provisions (Main Street Specific Plan Area); ❑ Add a new Sub - Section D, "C -SP Zone" with new sign standards for the Main Street Specific Plan Area that will retain the current provisions for signs within the Main Street Specific Plan area and adopt the following additional provisions; ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of 30% of the allowable sign area (Section 28- 1804.D.5.b.); ❑ Allow for courtyard signs when businesses do not face Main Street and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.d.) ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards= Staff Report 37 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow restaurant menu signs not larger than 6 square feet and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.g.); ❑ Allow permanent window signs and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ Establish standards for use of neon lighting (Section 28- 1804.D.5.i.); ❑ 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 j.); ❑ Allow the future use of interior - illuminated channel letters and prohibit the future use of interior - illuminated "can signs" (Section 28- 1804.D.5 j.); ❑ 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.k.); ❑ Establish a "Planned Sign Program" requirements for certain multi -tenant buildings and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.1.); and ❑ Establishes standards for "Temporary Window Signs (Section 28- 1804.D.6.), and WHEREAS, 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 ", and WHEREAS, Pursuant to 14 Calif. Code of Regs. § 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. § 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; § 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; § 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 § 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, and WHEREAS, 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 ", and WHEREAS, The record of the hearing by the Planning Commission on December 7, 2005 indicates the following: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 38 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 (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: ❑ Color; ❑ Materials; ❑ Sign Legibility/Negative Space; and ❑ 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, and WHEREAS, The Planning Commission determined to recommend approval of the proposed "Design Guidelines" by its adoption of Planning Commission Resolution 05 -64, and WHEREAS, A duly noticed public hearing was held by the City Council on January 23, 2006 to consider Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 and the proposed "Policy Statement" on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area ", and WHEREAS, The record of the hearing by the City Council on January 23, 2006 indicates the following: (a) At said public hearing there was oral and written testimony and evidence received by the City Council, and WHEREAS, Based upon the facts contained in the record, including those stated above in this resolution the City Council 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 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3. Accordingly, the ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 39 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 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 revisions to the City's zoning ordinance as adopted in Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 and enhance the ability of the 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. NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DECLARE, DETERMINE AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS: Sectionl. The City Council hereby adopts Policy Statement 600 -11, "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area ", as set forth on Exhibit A, attached to this resolution and incorporated herein. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Seal Beach this day of , 2006. Mayor ATTEST: City Clerk STATE OF CALIFORNIA } COUNTY OF ORANGE } SS CITY OF SEAL BEACH } I, Linda Devine, City Clerk of the City of Seal Beach, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was passed, approved and adopted by the City Council of the City of Seal Beach at a meeting thereof held on the day of , 2006 by the following vote: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 40 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 AYES: Council members NOES: Council members ABSENT: Council members ABSTAIN: Council members City Clerk ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 41 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 "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: ❑ Color; ❑ Materials; • Sign Legibility /Negative Space; and • 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 planned development in the City regarding designs for on- premise signs within the Main Street Specific Plan area ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standuds= Staff Report 42 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 4. ISSUANCE Approved by City Council on January 23, 2006. Effective date is March 15, 2006. ZTA 05 -3.Sign Stwdards.CC Staff Report 43 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 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. 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 any one 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). B. Materials. The following materials are recommended for signs: ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards= Staff Report 44 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 (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 fagade 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. - Si_gn Legibility/Negative Space. 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 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, ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 45 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 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 xG .- F-01,10 Exit abold Franklin Gothic Eur Oilraic 141 S'� �s Bal d- �•..,t►�, �'�'" ^�"- !�R".� I��i' AEI �•' Intricate logos, inappropriate for signage 4'� l ; r bra-. M-2 T Simple and appropriate logos for signage AIM MINOLTA rok- 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. ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards= Staff Report 46 Zone Text Amendment 05-3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 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. Relationship Between Sign Copy Area And Negative Space r L . AMERICAN DISCOUNT CENTER 40% Sign Copy Area and 60% Negative Space 60% ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report I ' Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 D. Sign Illumination. 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. 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. ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards= Staff Report 48 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 Unacceptable Atca ight� '�.i'if � , � . Acceptable :.� Ronied sypenoodligbs min icyuim �rup 0iminzrbpmwnl al8+c aa6liihllmIpr6a i $voi izbb I . ' I • � + pr{per olming a caquinA Ut prnnm glom and I* � ' +'� ... .. 'Widloul Adding, lhftc 00 OffivWa iDlAYw!w—,lk ed11gY ' Flood Ifs vN ih hand Wall Parma 49W AW=j Suii swim n1py be wil"Alk iffirC_lp to7Oyus lumps (wider [.ODD Sot 1434.054 r, ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 49 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 Unacceptable Acceptable .f � Opaque ratleerar • Tbm fium s auy he Kmow jrusing a k -1%W.W be& See i ??•I.DSO.G W i Parkins Lal lJohiine Uzi r i e � i vf�r• 4 ' i - i Individually illuminated letters, either internally illuminated or backlighted solid letters (reverse channel), are allowed. Internally illuminated plastic ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 50 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 cabinet signs are no longer permitted within the Main Street Specific Plan area. Signs comprised of individual letters mounted directly on a structure can often use a distinctive element of the structure's fagade 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 fagade, 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. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 51 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ATTACHMENT 3 RESOLUTION NUMBER 05 -54, A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH RECOMMENDING TO THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT 05 -31 ADOPTING NEW DEFINITIONS RELATING TO SIGNS; ADOPTING NEW, GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALL SIGNS; AND ADOPTING NEW ON- PREMISE SIGN STANDARDS WITHIN THE MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 52 RESOLUTION NUMBER 05-54 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH RECOMNlEENDING TO THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT 05 -3, ADOPTING NEW DEFINITIONS RELATING TO SIGNS; ADOPTING NEW, GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALL SIGNS; AND ADOPTING NEW ON- PREMISE SIGN STANDARDS WITHIN THE 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: ❑ Amend Article 2, Definitions, to add new definitions regarding signs; ❑ Amend Article 18, Sign Provisions, as follows: ❑ Amend Section 28- 1801.D., Calculation of Sign Area; ❑ Delete existing Section 28- 1802.E, Maintenance of Signs, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.E., Maintenance and Administrative Removal; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.F., Legibility of Signs; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.G., Material; and ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.H., Changeable Copy. ❑ Revise Section 28 -1804, Permitted Signs, Sub - Section C. to delete all provisions regarding the "C -SP" zone provisions (Main Street Specific Plan Area); ❑ Add a new Sub - Section D, "C -SP Zone" with new sign standards for the Main Street Specific Plan Area that will; ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of 30% of the allowable sign area (Section 28- 1804.D.5.b.); ZAMy Documents\RESMUA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso.doc\LW\01 -05 -06 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 ❑ Allow for courtyard signs when businesses do not face Main Street and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.d.) ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow restaurant menu signs not larger than 6 square feet and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.g.); ❑ Allow permanent window signs and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ Establish standards for use of neon lighting (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ 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.); ❑ 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.); ❑ 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.); ❑ Establish a "Planned Sign Program" requirements for certain multi -tenant buildings and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.k.); and ❑ Establishes standards for "Temporary Window Signs (Section 28- 1804.D.6.). Section 3. Pursuant to 14 Calif. Code of Regs. § 15305, staff has determined as follows: The application for Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 is categorically exempt from review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to 14 Calif. Code of Regs. § 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; § 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; § 1531 L(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 § 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 4. A duly noticed public hearing was held by the Planning Commission on December 7, 2005 to consider Zone Text Amendment 05 -3. Section 5. The record of the hearing of December 7, 2005 indicates the following: (a) At said public hearing there was oral and written testimony and evidence received by the Planning Commission. ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Sips.PC Reso 2 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 (b) The proposed text amendment will revise the City's zoning ordinance and enhance the ability of the City to ensure orderly and planned development in the City through an amendment of the zoning requirements for on- premise signs throughout the community and particularly within the Main Street Specific Plan area. (c) The proposed amendments are summarized above in Section 2 of this Resolution. Section 6. Based upon the facts contained in the record, including those stated in §4 of this resolution and pursuant to §§ 28 -2600 of the City's Code, the Planning Commission makes the following findings: (a) Zoning Text Amendment 65 -3 is consistent with the provisions of the various elements of the City's General Plan. Accordingly, the proposed new sign regulations are consistent with the General Plan. The proposed amendment will not result in changes inconsistent with the existing provisions of the General Plan. (b) The proposed text amendment will revise the City's zoning ordinance and enhance the ability of the City to ensure orderly and planned development in the City through an amendment of the zoning requirements for on- premise signs throughout the community and particularly within the Main Street Specific Plan area. Section 7. Based upon the foregoing, the Planning Commission hereby recommends approval of Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 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 of December , 2005, by the following vote. AYES: Commissioners Deaton, O'Malley, Roberts and Shanks NOES: Commissioners ABSENT: Commissioners Ladner ABSTAIN: Commissioners ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions Gordon Shanks, Chairman Planning Commission Lee Whittenberg, Secretary Planning Commission ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso December 7, 2005 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 "EXHIBIT A" A. PROPOSED DEFINITIONS TO BE ADDED TO ARTICLE 2, DEFINITIONS, OF THE SEAL BEACH ZONING ORDINANCE "Section 28 -216.5 Candela. "Candela" means a measure of light intensity. A candela is equal to 1/60 of the luminous intensity per square centimeter of a blackbody radiating at the temperature of solidification of platinum (2.046 degrees Kelvin)." "Section 28 -217.1 Channel Letter. "Channel Letter" means three- dimensional, individually cut letters or figures, illuminated or non - illuminated, attached to a structure." "Section 28 -217.3 Channel Logo. "Channel Logo" means three - dimensional, individually cut trademark or symbol identifying a product or use, illuminated or non- illuminated, attached to a structure." "Section 28 -246.5 Logo. "Logo" means an established trademark or symbol identifying a product-or use." "Section 28 -261 Negative Space. "Negative space" means the open space surrounding the sign copy area of a sign area." "Section 28 -271.2 Sign Area. "Sign Area" means the entire area within a single continuous perimeter of not more than eight straight lines that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags." "Section 28 -271.3 Sign Copy. "Sign Copy" means the any graphic, word, numeral, symbol, insignia, text, sample, model, device or combination thereof which is primarily intended to advertise, identify, or notify." "Section 28 -271.4 Sign Copy Area. "Sign Copy Area" means the sign area occupied by copy. It is computed by measuring the area enclosed by straight lines drawn to enclose the extremities of the letters or numbers contained within said sign area." "Section 28 -271.5 Sim, Direct Illumination. "Sign, Direct Illumination" means a sign illuminated primarily by light whose source is located in the interior of the sign so' that the rays of the light source are transmitted through a translucent material." ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso 5 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 "Section 28 -271.6 Sign, Indirect Illumination. "Sign, Indirect Illumination" means a sign illuminated primarily by light directed toward or across it by backlighting from a source not within it. Sources of illumination for such signs may be in the form of gooseneck lamps, spotlights, or luminous tubing." "Section 28 -271.7 Sign, Neon. "Sign, Neon" means an illuminated sign affected by a colorless, odorless light source consisting of a neon or gas tube that is bent to form letters, symbols, or other shapes." "Section 28 -271.8 Sian, Restaurant Menu and Similar Display Box Signs "Sign, Restaurant Menu and Similar Display Box Signs" means a sign used to inform the public of the list of entrees, dishes, and foods available in a restaurant or other items available in stores that utilize such display box signs . " B. PROPOSED SIGN REVISIONS TO APPLY TO ALL SIGNAGE REGULATIONS ❑ Section 28- 1801.B, Prohibited Signs, sub - section 1, is revised to add a second sentence to read as indicated: 41. Signs which incorporate any manner of flashing, moving or intermittent lighting. Moreover, sign illumination shall not blink, flutter, or change light intensity, brightness, or color." ❑ Section 28- 1801.1) is deleted in its entirety and replaced as follows: "D. Calculation of Sign Area. The area of an individual sign shall be calculated as follows. 1. Single -faced Sip_ns. Sign area shall include the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight lines that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags. The calculation of sign area for various types of single -faced signs is illustrated in Figure 1. ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso 6 Sign Area = Height x Width FRAMED X SIGN Width Figure I ------------------ --------------- low -------------------- --------- --------- Width -------------- I- Width --- ------------ I Odd Shape :----- - - - - -- I Width Angled W1dxh ZTA 05-3.Main Street Sips.PC Reso Planning Commission Resolution 05-54 Zone Text Amendment 05-3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7. 2005 I Width I --- , ---------------------- ffDnefl! A, L; --- Le --- A, ; --------------- -------------- -- --- ------- Multiple lements ----------------------------- ----- ---------- t 1�--- Width ---I --- - - - - -- ------- -- -------------- -Fm ------------------ ------ --------- Width ---------- . T/- Z ]______ ___ _____ _______ ___ _ _____ - ------------------------ Width ------------------------ ryso Odd Shape Width -1 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 2. Double -faced Signs. Where two faces of a double -faced sign are located two feet or less from one another at all points, or located at an interior angle of 45 degrees or less from one another, the sign area shall be computed as the area of one face. Where the two faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face shall be used. Where two faces of a double -faced sign are located more than two feet or 45 degrees. from one another, both sign faces shall be counted toward sign area. See Figure 2. '_1 Im Q y u u IL IL s �I Figure 2 Where distance between faces does not exceed 2 feet and interior angle does not exceed 45', total sign area = Face A or face B, whichever is larger. 3. Multi -faced Signs. On a three -faced sign, where at least one interior angle is 45 degrees or less, the area of two faces (the largest and smallest face) shall be summed to determine sign area. In all other situations involving a sign with three or more sides, sign area shall be calculated as the sum of all faces. 4. Three - Dimensional Signs. Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three- dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue -like trademarks), shall have a sign area of the sum of all areas using the four vertical sides of the smallest cube that will encompass the sign. See Figure 3. ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso 8 �r- � i i Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 Figure 3 Total sign area = Sum of all vertical sign faces of smallest cube encompassing the sign. 5. Sign area measurement. The measurement of sign area to determine compliance with the sign area limitations of this Chapter shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all framing, emblem, logo, representation, writing, or other display within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight lines. See Figure 4. Figure 4 C r i ..,5' S JOES L I juk-5 ;GgY 1 r t L�.�iifia �3Y E11 El F Unke- 219�a to. f!. Sur 1uea- 1?.64Aw IL Sarke3- :32saf:. ❑ Section 28- 1802.D, Abatement of Signs Relating to Inoperative Activities is deleted in its entirety and is revised to read: "Section 28- 1802.D. Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signing. 1. Maintenance of Signs. All signs, together with all of their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be properly maintained with respect to appearance, structural and electrical features. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso 9 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 neatly painted or posted at all times. All signs shall be subject to maintenance provisions as follows: a. Any location where business goods are no longer sold or produced or where services are no longer provided shall have 90 days to remove any remaining - or derelict signs following notification by the City and at the expense of said property. Where the written notification has been given by the City and compliance has not been met within the required 90 day period, the City may cause the removal of such signs with the cost for such removal to be attached to the property. b. All signs shall be refinished to remove rust or other corrosion due to the elements and any cracked or broken faces and malfunctioning lamps shall be replaced within 90 days following notification to the City. c. Signs erected, installed, located or maintained in the city must comply with all applicable structural provisions of the most recently adopted versions of the Uniform Sign Code, California Building Code, and California Electrical Code adopted by the City. d. When a sign is replaced or removed, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that supported the sign shall also be removed. Affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the adjacent portion of the structure within 30 days of said replacement or removal. 2. Administrative Removal. Signs may be removed by the City in accordance with the following procedures: a. Illegal or Dilapidated Signs. If the Director of Development Services, or. his designee, finds that a permanent sign is in violation of this Chapter, or is in disrepair, deteriorated, including peeling paint, prohibited, abandoned, illegal, or is in violation of the Building Code or any other laws and ordinances, he shall seek correction of the violations as provided for in the Municipal Code. The Director of Development Services shall inform the sign owner by a written notice that the sign is to be removed. b. Safety Hazard or on Public Right -Of -Way. The City Engineer, or his designee, without giving notice, shall have the authority to authorize removal of any sign which: (1) Poses an immediate threat to public safety; or (2) Is displayed in violation of the provisions of this Chapter or other City ordinances on or over any public right -of- way." ❑ Section 28- 1802.E, Maintenance of Signing is deleted in its entirety. ❑ Proposed New Section 1802.E., Legibility of Signs, to be added to read: "E. Legibility of Signs. Lettering on signs should be legible. Preferred character sizes for signs are as follows: ZTA 05- 3.Main Sweet Signs.PC Reso 10 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 Minimum Character Size (inches) Intended Reading Distance (feet) 3.5 60 4.0 70 4.5 80 5.0 90 5.5 100 or more ❑ Proposed New Section 1802.F, Materials, to be added to read: "F. Materials. Paper, cardboard, or other material subject to rapid deterioration shall be limited to signs displayed for no more than 60 days. Fabric signs shall be restricted to City Banners, Awning Signs, and Temporary Signs permitted pursuant to Section 28- 1801.C." ❑ Proposed New Section 28- 1802.G, Changeable Copy, to be added to read: "G. Changeable Copy. Changeable copy shall cover no more than 20 percent of the total sign area; except for the following uses which are allowed up to 75 percent of sign area to be changeable copy: all public and civic uses, indoor theaters, other public assembly uses, and fuel price signs." C. PROPOSED SIGN REVISIONS TO APPLY TO MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA ❑ Section 28- 1804.C, LC /RMD, C -O, C -SP, C -1 and C -2 Zones, is amended to delete all references to the C -SP Zone and to delete subsection 5.g, which sets forth projecting sign regulations in the C -SP Zone, and is amended to read: "C. LC /RMD, C -O, C -1 and C -2 Zones. The following signs are permitted in the LC/RMD, C -O, C -1 and C -2 zones: 1. One unlighted sign pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of the property on which the sign is displayed. ParcelSize ........................................................ ............................... sign Size Lots of record and parcels not exceeding: 10,000 square feet ............................................... ............................... 6 sq. ft. 10,000 square feet to 1 acre .............................. ............................... 25 sq. ft. More than 1 acre ............................................... ............................... 50 sq. ft. ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso 11 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 2. Temporary Noncommercial signs that do not exceed an aggregate surface area of 25 square feet per lot, up to 4 per lot. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed thirty -six inches by forty-eight inches. Said Temporary Noncommercial signs shall be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement. 3. Construction signs under the same restrictions as Section 28- 1804.A.4. 4. For each shopping center, identification signs are permitted as follows: a. One free - standing or pole identification sign containing the name and logo of the center. Sign not to exceed 15 feet in overall height and not to exceed 60 square feet on one face of a double -faced sign. b. One monument sign not to exceed 10 square feet in area and not to exceed 4 feet in height at each traffic entrance to the center, in no case shall more than 4 monument signs be placed in any shopping center. 5. Each commercial activity may have signing identifying the activity on the premises as follows: a. One sign per building face which is visible from streets or parking lot area. Said sign to be fascia or wall sign. b. Size of fascia or wall sign shall be one square foot per lineal foot of building face, not to exceed 100 square feet per sign. C. In lieu of one or more fascia or wall signs, one free- standing or pole sign not to exceed 15 feet in overall height may be erected on the parcel or building site on which the building is located. Maximum size of sign shall not exceed 60 square feet per face of a double faced sign. d. In case of buildings having less than 25 linear feet of frontage on a street, 25 square feet of signing will be permitted. e. In cases where a business is located on a street with a speed limit of 35 mph or more, a free standing sign or larger fascia or wall sign will be permitted. The larger may be an ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso 12 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 additional one -half square foot per lineal foot of building frontage not to exceed 80 additional square feet. (See subparagraphs a, b, c, above). The maximum sign area per sign of 100 square feet does not apply in this case. f. No more than 2 items of information will be permitted per sign. An example of one item of information would be the name of the business, specialty item, unique service, etc. 6. When property falls under an adopted planned sign program the above provisions do not apply." ❑ Section 1804.D, C -SP Zone, is added to read: "D. C -SP Zone. The following signs are permitted in the C -SP zone: 1. One unlighted sign pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of the property on which the sign is displayed. Parcel Size Lots of record and parcels not exceeding: 10,000 square feet ..... ............................... 10,000 square feet to 1 acre ..................... More than 1 acre ....... ............................... Sign Size ............ 6 sq. ft. ..........25 sq. ft. .......... 50 sq. ft. 2. Temporary Noncommercial signs that do not exceed an aggregate surface area of 25 square feet per lot, up to 4 per lot. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed 26 inches by 48 inches. Said Temporary Noncommercial signs shall be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement. 3. Construction signs under the same restrictions as Section 28- 1804.A.4. 4. For each shopping center, identification signs are permitted as follows: a. One free - standing or pole identification sign containing the name and logo of the center. Sign not to exceed 15 feet in overall height and not to exceed 60 square feet on one face of a double -faced sign. b. One monument sign not to exceed 10 square feet in area and not to exceed 4 feet in height at each traffic entrance to ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Sips.PC Reso 13 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 the center, in no case shall more than 4 monument signs be placed in any shopping center. 5. Each commercial activity may have signing identifying the activity on the premises as follows: a. One sign per building face which is visible from streets or parking lot area. Said sign to be a fascia or wall sign. b. Size of -the fascia or wall sign shall be one square foot per lineal foot of building face, not to exceed 100 square feet per sign. (1) Fascia or wall signs that utilize neon lighting exclusively shall be reduced in size by 25 %. (2) A fascia or wall sign may utilize neon lighting on not more than 30% of the sign copy area and not be required to reduce the allowable sign area. C. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where buildings have less than 25 linear feet of frontage on a street, 25 square feet of signing will be permitted. d. Courtyard Signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Where businesses face a courtyard, and do not directly face Main Street, one single -faced or double - faced freestanding courtyard sign is permitted for tenant identification only, in addition to those on the building. (2) No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 7 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. (3) The total area of the courtyard sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of site street frontage or 20 square feet, whichever is smaller. (4) Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 2 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. (5) Each courtyard sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right -of -way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. e. Projecting signs shall be allowed subject to the following conditions: ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso 14 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 (1) "Projecting sign" means an attached sign (other than a flat - mounted sign) which projects out from a building or structure and usually has two message surfaces. (2) Projecting signs shall be allowed that: ❑ do not exceed four (4) square feet in area per side; ❑ project no more than three (3) feet from the wall to which attached; ❑ are located at least seven (7) feet but not more than twelve (12) feet above grade; ❑ reflect the business by incorporating symbols or logos of the business; ❑ have supports and brackets that are compatible with the design and scale of the sign; and ❑ are not internally or externally illuminated. (3) Each ground -level occupancy frontage may have one (1) such projecting sign if such sign is located near its primary entryway. Such sign shall be in addition to other signs allowed in Section 28- 1804.E.5. (4) No sign shall project into any public right -of -way unless the Director of Public Works shall have first issued an encroachment permit therefor. f. A monument sign is permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Where the face of the building sets back from the property line more than 15 feet, one single -faced or double -faced freestanding monument sign is permitted, in addition to those on the building, in accordance with the following: ❑ No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 5 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. ❑ The total area of the sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of street frontage or 40 square feet, whichever is smaller. ❑ Signs shall be located in a landscape planter a minimum of 2 feet wider than the sign itself, with a minimum 2 -foot wide base for the monument sign itself. ❑ Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 3 feet from an ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso 15 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 (1) interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. ❑ Landscaping with automatic sprinklers shall be (2) provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign or (3) 75 square feet, whichever is greater. ❑ If the sign is to be lit, all lighting shall be from (4) internal illumination. ❑ Each monument sign shall contain an address (5) plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and h. Permanent Window signs are permitted subject to the shall be clearly visible from the public right -of- (1) way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. g. Restaurant Menu Signs and similar display box signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: Permanent window signs shall be limited to (1) Shall be located in a permanently mounted display box on the surface of the building adjacent to the entry. (2) The allowable area shall be a maximum of 6 square feet and shall be limited to the size of two pages. (3) Such sign shall be compatible with the scale, colors, and materials of the storefront. (4) Such sign shall not be used for additional business identification or additional signage. (5) Such sign shall ' not be included in the sign area calculation for the business. h. Permanent Window signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Permanent window signs shall not exceed 20% of the area of each window. (2) No window sign shall be displayed above the second story. (3) Permanent window signs shall be limited to individual letters placed on the interior surface of the window and intended to be viewed from the outside. White, black or gold leaf paint are the recommended colors. Glass- mounted graphic logos may be applied by silk screening or pre - spaced vinyl die -cut forms. (4) Interior Permanent signs within 3 feet of a storefront window shall be counted as a permanent window sign. ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso 16 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 (5) Permanent Window signs shall be allowed in addition to the aggregate sign area allowed for wall and projecting signs. (6) Permanent window signs shall not be illuminated except for neon signs permitted in Section I, below. i. Neon signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Neon signs and linear tubing shall be UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listed with a maximum 30 milliamps per circuit and shall be designed to accommodate a dimmer in order to reduce the brightness of the neon. (2) The neon manufacturer shall be registered with Underwriters Laboratories. (3) Neon tubing shall not exceed one half inch in diameter. (4) Neon lighting adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed 0.5 footcandle measured at the property line. (5) Neon tubing shall not be combined with any reflective materials (e.g., highly - glazed tiles, mirrors, polished metal), or other similar material. (6) Interior neon signs placed within 5 feet of a storefront window shall have a transparent background and shall be counted as a permanent window sign. j. Sign illumination is subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Internal illumination is permitted on monument signs, channel letters and channel logos only (2) Signs without channel letters and channel logos shall only be externally illuminated. (3) The permitted range of sign illumination shall be between 5 and 20 candelas per square foot of sign area, except for business properties that have property frontage on Pacific Coast Highway where a maximum of 70 candelas /square foot is permitted. (4) Lighting shall be energy efficient, and shielded or recessed so that direct glare and reflections are confined to the maximum extent feasible within the boundaries of the site, and shall be directed downward and away from adjoining properties and public rights -of way. No lighting on private property shall produce an illumination level greater than 1 footcandle on any property within a residential zoning district except on the site of the light source. ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Sigts.PC Reso 17 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 (5) A luminance report shall be prepared by a licensed engineer and submitted to the Director of Development Services within 90 days of the installation of any internal or external illuminated sign indicating compliance with subsections (3) and (4), above. Such report shall include the method of measurement, results of said measurement, and, if the measurement exceeded the provisions of subsection (3) above, the actions taken and resulting measurement information to achieve compliance with said subsection (3). k. Outlining of buildings or components of buildings (i.e., doorways, windows, rooflines, architectural features, etc.) by string lighting shall not be considered sign illumination, but shall be approved through the Minor Plan Review process. 1. Additional Review. (1) A Minor Plan Review approval by the Planning Commission shall be required for the signage for a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 2 or 3 separate tenant spaces. In making its determination, the Planning Commission shall consider such factors as the size, location and design of the proposed signs; the type of businesses to which the signs will pertain; the architectural character of the site and surrounding buildings; and the type of other permitted signage in the vicinity of the site. (2) A Planned Sign Program shall be required for the signage of a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 4 or more separate tenant spaces, pursuant to subsections C and D of Section 28 -1803. When property falls under an adopted planned sign program, the above subparagraphs a through 1 and Section 1804.D.4 do not apply. 6. Temporary Window Signs: a. Combinations of permanent and temporary window signs shall not cover more than 30 percent of any window (50% during December). ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Sips.PC Reso 18 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -54 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 Revisions to Sign Provisions December 7, 2005 b. No more than one temporary window sign is allowed per window; C. Commercial temporary window signs shall not be posted more than 3 times per calendar year,, d. Commercial temporary window signs shall not be posted more than 30 days for each period; e. A Temporary Sign Permit approval is required to post commercial temporary window signs." ZTA 05- 3.Main Street Signs.PC Reso 19 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ATTACHMENT 4 RESOLUTION NUMBER 05 -649 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" ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 53 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: ❑ Amend Article 2, Definitions, to add new definitions regarding signs; ❑ Amend Article 18, Sign Provisions, as follows: ❑ Amend Section 28- 1801.D., Calculation of Sign Area; ❑ Delete existing Section 28- 1802.E, Maintenance of Signs, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.E., Maintenance and Administrative Removal; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.F., Legibility of Signs; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.G., Material; and ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.H., Changeable Copy. ❑ Revise Section 28 -1804, Permitted Signs, Sub - Section C. to delete all provisions regarding the "C -SP" zone provisions (Main Street Specific Plan Area); ❑ Add a new Sub - Section D, "C -SP Zone" with new sign standards for the Main Street Specific Plan Area that will; ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of 30% of the allowable sign area (Section 28- 1804.D.5.b.); ❑ Allow for courtyard signs when businesses do not face Main Street and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.d.) ❑ 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.); ZAMy Documents\RESWTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso.doc\LW\01 -06 -06 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 ❑ Allow restaurant menu signs not larger than 6 square feet and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.g.); ❑ Allow permanent window signs and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ Establish standards for use of neon lighting (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ 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.); ❑ 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.); ❑ 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.); ❑ Establish a "Planned Sign Program" requirements for certain multi -tenant buildings and establish standards. (Section 28- 1804.D.5.k.); and ❑ 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. § 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. § 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; § 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; § 1531 L(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 § 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'. ZTA 05- 3.Policy StatementPC Reso 2 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 record of the hearing of December 7, 2005 indicates the following: (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: ❑ Color; ❑ Materials; ❑ Sign Legibility/Negative Space; and ❑ 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 § §l 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 of the 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 ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 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 Shanks, Chairman Planning Commission Lee Whittenberg, Secretary Planning Commission ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 4 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: ❑ Color; ❑ Materials; ❑ Sign Legibility /Negative Space; and ❑ 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 ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 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. ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 6 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 any one 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). ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso % 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 fagade 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. Sign Le_gibilitV/Ne_-gative 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 ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 8 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 SaUvenir Medium Folio Extra old Franklin Goth Ie Eurastile Sold Gill Seas Bold o- 'ti's• iVQ - � >t'��'� Unuad Him 96 Intricate logos, inappropriate for signage ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 9 Planning Commission Resolution 05 -64 Zone TextAmendment 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 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. ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 10 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 Relationship Between Sign Copy Area And Negative Space GREAT AMERICAN DISCOUNT CENTER 40% Sign Copy Area and 60% Negative Space 60% D. Sign Illumination. 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. ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 11 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 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. Unacceptable 44"1 .• ' 4 F • Valboul AiddinC Ihcac [*-" Oriicw& (pray enoanlraQM OPL Acceptable • Hooded lire floodlislrs sill AA lcquin;Pgxr aimilm W preNSnl yarc &A &y1L av9p"s •btoner aiming is"quiredinprnrm ��• glare and 4u Csspass. FI0511 light w9N hand 1 r ._J E - - 7� 41ft 54 li Y • Sud1 f1 own; lay bC 2"Inlak uftc ay ltro oacp a Imrgs Cmder L^ lka=4 W 1734.OM. ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 12 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 Unacceptable Acceptable 17paws neilee w •lhess:wiure :agy6cx�-t. bk Irlr#inAattrr �e¢age hr3x see Strest i.ipheina �o ID Park imp 1.01 t.ishlink •y� ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 13 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. Signs comprised of individual letters mounted directly on a structure can often use a distinctive element of the_ structure's fagade 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 fagade, 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. Sign illumination shall not blink, flash, flutter, or change light intensity, brightness, or color. 8. 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. ZTA 05- 3.Policy Statement.PC Reso 14 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ATTACHMENT 5 DECEMBER 7, 2005 PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTE EXCERPT ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 54 City of Seal Beach Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of December 7, 2005 1 Chairperson Shanks called for a motion to approve Conditional Use Permit 05 -16 with 2 the following addition to the conditions of approval for Resolution 05 -68: 3 4 "For demolition activities the hours will be from 7.00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 5 Monday through Friday, and from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, with 6 no demolition activity permitted on Sunday or_ holidays. Construction 7 activities will be from 7.00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, with no construction activity 9 permitted on Sunday or holidays." 10 11 MOTION by Roberts; SECOND by O'Malley to approve Conditional Use Permit 05 -16 12 and adoption of Resolution 05 -68 as amended. 13 14 MOTION CARRIED: 4-0-1 15 AYES: Shanks, Deaton, O'Malley, and Roberts 16 NOES: None 17 ABSENT: Ladner 18 19 Mr. Abbe advised that the adoption of Resolution Nos. 05 -67, 05 -13, 05 -65, 05 -14, 20 05 -66, and 05 -68 begins a 10 -day calendar appeal period to the City Council. Thb 21 Commissioner action tonight is final and the appeal period begins tomorrow morning. 22 23 Mr. Bucy thanked Staff and neighboring residents for their cooperation and assistance 24 in working on this project. He also thanked all the tenants of the Seal-Beach Center for 25 their patience and cooperation. 26 27 Commissioner Roberts stated that this was a very complete and well- documented MND 28 and thanked CAA for their work. 29 30 Chairperson Shanks called for a brief recess. The meeting recessed at 9:50 p.m. 31 32 The meeting reconvened at 10:03 p.m. 33 34 7. Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 35 Main Street Specific Plan Area 36 37 Applicant/Owner: City of Seal Beach 38 Request: Adoption of new definitions relating to signs; adoption of new 39 general provision for all signs; adoption of new on- premise 40 sign standards within the Main Street Specific Plan Zone; 41 and adoption of City Council_ policy statement on "General 42 Design Guidelines For Signs — Main Street Specific Plan 43 Area. 44 45 Recommendation: Approval and adoption of Resolution 05 -54. 46 Page 17 of 21 City of Seal Beach Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of December 7, 2005 1 1 Staff Report 2 3 Mr. Whittenberg delivered the staff report. (Staff Report is on file for inspection in the 4 Planning Department.) He provided some background information on this item and 5 noted that the proposed sign standards would apply specifically to the Main Street _6 Specific Plan (MSSP) Zone, but a number of amendments have also been added to add 7 new definitions that will apply citywide, as well as a number of maintenance and 8 construction standards that will also apply citywide. He indicated that what is before the 9 PC tonight is for approval of a recommendation to City Council (CC) to amend the City 10 sign standards as set forth in Resolution 05 -54 as well as Resolution 05 -64 11 recommending adoption of a City Council Policy Statement on "General Design 12 Guidelines for Signs - Main Street Specific Plan Area," to help address some of the 13 issues discussed during the study sessions, but that the PC felt were not appropriate to 14 attempt to codify into the ordinance itself. He noted that the Policy Statement would be 15 provided to sign designers and property owners for their use in considering new sign 16 plans and programs. 17 18 Mr. Abbe stated that attorneys state wide have been presenting law suits against city 19 sign ordinances, and because freedom of speech is a "fundamental right," when the 20 attorneys sue they receive a fee, so it is important to carefully review this document to 21 ensure that the City is protected. He referred to Page 21, Paragraph g. of the Staff 22 Report and recommended changing the text from "Restaurant Menu Signs" to 23 'Restaurant Menu and Similar Display Box Signs," as this cannot be limited to menus. 24 He then referred to sub - division (2) under this same paragraph and recommended that 25 the following text be eliminated: 26 27 " .. of the menu utilized by the establishment." 28 29 In subdivision (3), Mr. Abbe recommended deleting the word "restaurant." 30 31 Commissioner Roberts referred to the section of the Staff Report regarding standards 32 for the political aspects of commercial and non - commercial signs, with one of the 33 recommendations proposing that the sign be replaced every 60 days, recognizing that 34 these types of signs being constructed of cardboard type materials would deteriorate 35 over a period of time. He asked if this were appropriate. Mr. Abbe stated that the City 36 does have the authority to condition the "quality and appearance" of the signs. 37 38 Public Hearinq 39 40 Chairperson Shanks opened the public hearing. 41 42 Jeff Davis stated that signage is about light and he does not believe that Old Town 43 should look like a circus or carnival. He discouraged garish, bright lighting and 44 indicated that he does. not expect existing merchants to change their signage, but this 45 should be done over a period of time as new merchants come into the city. He 46 disagreed with the reports determination that lighting on a sign of up to 45 candelas is a Page 18 of 21 City of Seal Beach Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of December 7, 2005 1 low level of light. He said he has no objection to neon but objects to fluorescent lighting, 2 and standard for candelas should range from 15 -20 maximum. 3 4 There being no one else wishing to speak, Chairperson Shanks closed the public 5 hearing. 6 7 Commissioner Comments 8 9 Commissioner Deaton stated that she has had a lot of input from the community on this 10 matter and the general opinion is that the main problem is the. use of bright channel 11 lettering on signage. She proposed lowering the maximum candelas to 20 per square 12 foot rather than the proposed 35, as this would minimize the amount of glare even when 13 neon is used. 14 15 Commissioner Roberts stated that he could agree with limiting the candelas to 20 per 16 square foot. He added that although the policy statement notes this, he would like to 17 see a ban on flashing or blinking lights included in the City ordinance. Mr. Whittenberg 18 explained that currently the Sign Code does not allow these types of signs. Mr. Abbe 19 quoted from Section 28 -1801 of the City Code, which states "The following signs shall 20 not be permitted in the City: 1. Signs which incorporate any manner of flashing, 21 moving, or intermittent lighting." The Commission was in agreement that the above - 22 noted text in the Code should be replaced with the text used in the Policy Statement. 23 Mr. Abbe recommended adding the following text rather than replacing the existing text: 24 25 " "Moreover, sign illumination shall not blink, flutter, or change light 26 intensity, brightness, or color." 27 28 Commissioner Deaton asked if window signs would also be limited to the candela level 29 as proposed. Mr. Whittenberg confirmed that they would. Commissioner Deaton stated 30 that if a business has a lighted fagade sign of 20 candelas and a window sign of 20 31 candelas, this would equal 40 candelas. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the light intensity 32 level of signs would not be cumulative. Commissioner Deaton countered that this would 33 still create more light and she proposed that something should be done to limit window 34 signs if the business already has a lighted fagade sign. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the 35 policy could be changed, if the PC determined to do so. Commissioner O'Malley 36 suggested including a maximum restriction of candelas per building. Mr. Whittenberg 37 stated that Staff would have to discuss this with the lighting consultant. He then 38 explained that the Code is not constructed to deal with the volume of light, but with the 39 intensity of light from a sign. Chairperson Shanks added that Commissioner Deaton 40 has made some good recommendations; however, the difficulty is that the building and 41 signage at Main Street Square has changed, and problems arise when you break a 42 building up into smaller business units. He noted that the Ordinance states that any 43 future projects of this kind will have to receive approval of a sign program from the PC. 44 Mr. Whittenberg noted that permanent window signs cannot be illuminated; however, 45 permanent illuminated neon signs with a transparent background are allowed in a 46 window area within 5 -feet of the storefront window. He indicated that a separate lumen Page 19 of 21 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 City of Seal Beach Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of December 7, 2005 standard could be set for window neon signs and a separate standard for building signs. Commissioner Roberts recommended limiting the lumens to 10 or 15 for window neon signs. Commissioner Deaton stated that since the neon signs can be reostated, she would agree with limiting these signs to 10; however, she does believes that the neon "Open" signs should continue to be allowed. Commissioner Roberts stated that 10 might be too dim. Commissioner Deaton conceded to leave the policy as is, except for decreasing the maximum candelas to 20 per square foot. Mr. Abbe asked if this would also apply to the signage along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Commissioner Deaton asked if the 70- candela maximum for PCH applied to the building sign only or also to signs on the street line. Mr. Whittenberg clarified that this level would apply to building signs oriented toward PCH. MOTION by Deaton; SECOND by O'Malley to recommend to the City Council approval of Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 and adoption of Resolution 05 -54 as amended. MOTION CARRIED: 4-0-1 AYES: Shanks, Deaton, O'Malley, and Roberts NOES: None ABSENT: Ladner Chairperson Shanks commented that the policy statement was an excellent idea and would be very useful in representing what people want to see in Old Town and along Main Street. Commissioner Deaton complimented Staff on the work done on this issue and thanked Staff for hiring the lighting consultant to complete the study on Main Street signs. Commissioners Roberts and O'Malley stated that they were happy with the Policy Statement as written. MOTION by Deaton; SECOND by Roberts to recommend to the City Council adoption of a City Council Policy Statement on "General Design guidelines for Signs - Main Street Specific Plan Area," and adoption of Resolution 05 -64 as amended. MOTION CARRIED: 4-0-1 AYES: Shanks, NOES: None ABSENT: Ladner STAFF CONCERNS Deaton, O'Malley, and Roberts Mr. Whittenberg wished the members of the Planning Commission a Happy Holiday Season. Page 20 of 21 Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 - Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code and Adoption of Design Guidelines City Council Staff Report January 23, 2006 ATTACHMENT 6 PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT RE: ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT 05 -3, DATED NOVEMBER 9, 2005 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.CC Staff Report 55 November 9, 2005 STAFF REPORT To: Honorable Chairman and Planning Commission From: Lee Whittenberg, Director Department of Development Services Subject: ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT 05 - 3 ADOPTION OF NEW DEFINITIONS RELATING TO SIGNS; ADOPTION OF NEW, GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALL SIGNS; ADOPTION OF NEW ON- PREMISE SIGN STANDARDS WITHIN THE MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA; AND ADOPTION OF CITY COUNCIL POLICY STATEMENT ON "GENERAL DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS — MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA" REQUEST To consider various amendments to the general standards for commercial signs within the community and specific amendments to sign standards for the Main Street Specific Plan Area. This amendment proposes the following amendments: ❑ Amend Article 2, Definitions, to add new definitions regarding signs; ❑ Amend Article 18, Sign Provisions, as follows: ❑ Amend Section 28- 1801.D., Calculation of Sign Area; ❑ Delete existing Section 28- 1802.E, Maintenance of Signs, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.E., Maintenance and Administrative Removal; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.F., Legibility of Signs; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.G., Material; and ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.H., Changeable Copy. ❑ Revise Section 28 -1804, Permitted Signs, Sub- Section C. to delete all provisions regarding the "C -SP" zone provisions (Main Street Specific Plan Area); ❑ Add a new Sub - Section D, "C -SP Zone" with new sign standards for the Main Street Specific Plan Area that will; ❑ 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.); ZAMy Documents\ZTA\ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report.doc\Lw\09 -26 -05 Planning Commission Staf'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of 30% of the allowable sign area (Section 28- 1804.D.5.b.); ❑ Allow for courtyard signs when businesses do not face Main Street and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.d.) . ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow restaurant menu signs not larger than 6 square feet and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.g.); ❑ Allow permanent window signs and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ Establish standards for use of neon lighting (Section 28- 1804.D.5.i.); ❑ 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 j.); ❑ Allow the future use of interior - illuminated channel letters and prohibit the future use of interior - illuminated "can signs" (Section 28- 1804.D.5 j); ❑ 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.k.); ❑ Establish a "Minor Plan Review" or "Planned Sign Program" requirements for certain multi -tenant buildings and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.1.); and ❑ Establishes standards for "Temporary Window Signs (Section 28- 1804.D.6.). ❑ Recommend that the City Council adopt a Policy Statement regarding "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area" to establish the following items for consideration prior to developing a sign plan within the Main Street Specific Plan Area: ❑ Color; ❑ Materials; ❑ Sign Legibility/Negative Space; and ❑ Sign Illumination. Provided as Attachments 1 and 2 are the proposed Planning Commission Resolutions that would need to be adopted to forward these matters to the City Council for final consideration. These resolutions contain the language of the recommended amendments to the Zoning Code and the proposed Policy Statement on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area ": ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 2 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 BACKGROUND Overview of Earlier Planning Commission Study Sessions: The Planning Commission has held five study sessions regarding these issues. Provided below is a summary of those previous study sessions: September 22, 2004 Study Session: The Planning Commission conducts its first study session on the issue at the direction of the City Council. An overview of the current signage requirements and standards for Main Street was presented. Copies of sign regulations from Hercules, Novato, and Huntington Beach were provided for review by the Planning Commission. Please refer to Attachment 3 to review the Minute excerpt of this Planning Commission meeting. November 3, 2004 Study Session: Based on the discussion of the Commission at the September 22, 2004 Study Session, staff identified the following areas of concern to investigate regarding future Zoning Code amendments: ❑ Development of a standard for free - standing signs for businesses not built up to the sidewalk — the Planning Commission was requested to provide direction as to the circumstances when such signs may be considered, such as: ❑ Minimum distance from front property line to the building to qualify for such a sign; ❑ Determination of appropriate height and size of such signs ❑ Development on standards for the use and intensity of lighting for signs, both building and interior, window signs. Provided as attachments to this staff report for the information of the Commission were the following documents related to light intensity issues: ❑ Chapter 17.34, Outdoor Lighting, Town of Mammoth Lakes Zoning Ordinance Excerpt ❑ Chapter G -34, Sign Design Guidelines, City of West Hollywood ❑ International Dark -Sky Association — various documents ❑ Development of standards to require a "Planned Sign Program" to be approved for multi - tenant properties or single -use properties of a certain minimum street frontage or square footage threshold. ❑ Development of regulations on the nature, type and extent of interior, window signs. ❑ Development of maintenance standards for signs. Please refer to Attachment 4 to review the Minute excerpt of this Planning Commission meeting. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 3 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 February 23, 2005 Study Session: Based on the direction of the Planning Commission at the September 22, 2004 and November 3, 2004 Study Sessions, staff identified, and the Commission concurred that the following areas of concern should be investigated regarding future Zoning Code amendments regarding signage issues along Main Street: ❑ Development of a standard for free - standing signs for businesses not built up to the sidewalk: ❑ Minimum distance from front property line to the building to qualify for such a sign; ❑ Determination of appropriate height and size of such signs ❑ Development on standards for the use and intensity of lighting for signs, both building and interior, window signs. Provided as Attachments for the information of the Commission were the following documents related to light intensity issues: ❑ Chapter 17.34, Outdoor Lighting, Town of Mammoth Lakes Zoning Ordinance Excerpt ❑ Chapter G -34, Sign Design Guidelines, City of West Hollywood ❑ International Dark -Sky Association — various documents Note: The Planning Commission is only proposing illumination standards for the Main Street Specific Plan area at this time. To develop citywide illumination standards would entail significant staff time and resources, and that task cannot be undertaken given the current workload of the Planning Department. If the Planning Commission would wish to continue to pursue this issue, it is recommended that a request be forwarded to the City Council to seek direction as to proceeding with such a task. At that time further information regarding time, costs, and staff abilities to complete such a study would be presented. ❑ Development of standards to require a "Planned Sign Program" to be approved for multi - tenant properties or single -use properties of a certain minimum street frontage or square footage threshold. ❑ Development of regulations on the nature, type and extent of interior, window signs. ❑ Development of maintenance standards for signs. Staff also prepared as an attachment a document titled "Main Street Sign Provisions — Ordinance Provisions from other Jurisdictions" (Please see Attachment 8). This document provides an overview of provisions of other jurisdictions regarding the issues identified above. Information from the following jurisdictions and documents is summarized in this Attachment: ❑ Newport Beach Zoning Ordinance ❑ Balboa Sign Overlay Program — Newport Beach ❑ Central Balboa (Specific Plan District # 8) - Newport Beach: ❑ Santa Ana Heights (Specific Plan District # 7) - Newport Beach ❑ Huntington Beach Zoning Ordinance ❑ Huntington Beach Design Guidelines, Chapter 5 — Downtown/Main Street Commercial ❑ Pasadena zoning Ordinance ❑ Dana Point Zoning Ordinance ❑ Novato Zoning Ordinance ❑ San Diego Municipal Code ❑ San Diego Municipal Code — La Jolla Commercial and Industrial Sign Control District ❑ Long Beach Zoning Ordinance ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 4 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 At the February 23, 2005 study session the Planning Commission gave direction to staff to proceed with the development of draft ordinance language for several revisions to the sign provisions for the Main Street Specific Plan area. Those general areas of revision were identified as follows: ❑ Development of a standard for free - standing signs for businesses not built up to the sidewalk; ❑ Monument Signs; ❑ Courtyard Signs. ❑ Development of standards to require a "Planned Sign Program" to be approved for multi - tenant properties; ❑ Development of regulations on the nature, type and extent of interior, window signs; ❑ Permanent window signs; ❑ Temporary window signs ❑ Development of sign area measurement standards (proposed to apply to all sign regulations); ❑ Development of sign legibility standards (proposed to apply to all sign regulations); ❑ Development of maintenance standards for signs (proposed to apply to all sign regulations); and ❑ Development on standards for the use and intensity of lighting for signs, both building and interior, window signs Please refer to Attachment 5 to review the Minute excerpt of this Planning Commission meeting. May 4, 2005 Study Session: On May 4, 2005 the Planning Commission received a presentation from Downtown Solutions and Konsortuml regarding existing illumination levels of various sign along Main Street to assist the Commission in determining whether to establish an illumination level for business signs. Staff also presented draft ordinance language for Commission consideration on the other matters that the Commission discussed on February 23, 2005. A copy of the Planning Commission Minute excerpt of this meeting is provided as Attachment 6 and the presentation by Downtown Solutions and Konsortum 1 is provided as Attachment 9 for the information of the Planning Commission. Provided below is a summary of the results of that study for the sign locations that were included in the study. Also provided is a comparison to the current City of Newport Beach "Recommended Sign Luminances" provisions for the information of the Commission. It is noted that only one sign location, Comer Drug at 302 Main Street would be in the "Medium" category under the Newport Beach regulations; all of the other signs subject to the study would be in the "Low" category (actually 5 of the 13 measured_ locations illuminance levels are less than the "Low" level). ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 5 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 MAIN STREET SIGN ILLUMINANCE STUDY — SUMMARY OF ILLUMINACE LEVELS ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report Maximum Business Internal/ candelas/ Newport Beach Ambient Business Sign Address External square Light Environment Illumination foot Classification Clancy's 111 Main Internal 11.96 Low: 10 -45 candelas/square foot Up Up & Away 139%2 Main External 14.65 Low: 10-45 candelas /square Kites foot O'Malley's on 130 Main External 1.98 Low: 10 -45 candelas /square Main (50% of light foot fixtures non- operational Hennessey's 143 Main External 4.15 Low: 10 -45 candelas/square foot Javatini's 148A Main Internal 23.21 Low: 10 -45 candelas /square Espresso foot Razmataz 148C Main Internal 29.09 Low: 10 -45 candelas /square foot Walt's Wharf 201 Main External 8.60 Low: 10 -45 candelas /square (50% of foot fixtures not aimed correctly) Grandma's 210 Main Internal 14.49 Low: 10 -45 candelas/square foot Bay Hardware 215 Main Non- NA NA illuminated Tiffany's Nails 250 Main Non- NA NA illuminated Corner Drug 302 Main Internal 47.74 - Sign Medium: 45 -70 candelas/ 50.52 - Letters square foot ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 MAIN STREET SIGN ILLUMINANCE STUDY — SUMMARY OF ILLUMINACE LEVELS (Continued) Newport Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 20.67.025.I.3 — Illuminated Signs): "Unless otherwise prohibited by this chapter, signs may be illuminated provided such illumination does not interfere with the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties or create any public safety hazards. Exterior light sources shall be shielded from view and directed away from adjacent properties. The Planning Director may order the dimming of any illumination found to be excessively bright, based on the following guidelines: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 7 Maximum Business Internal/ candelas/ Newport Beach Ambient Business Sign Address External square Light Environment Illumination foot Classification Furnace 308 Main Non- NA NA illuminated Harbour 329 Main External 3.84 Low: 10 -45 candelas/square Surfboards (50% of light foot fixtures non- operational Alternative Surf 330B Main Internal 20.54 Low: 10 -45 candelas /square foot Cafe Lafayette 330C Main Internal 21.56 Low: 10 -45 candelas/square foot Charo Chicken 333 Main Internal 21.84 Yellow Low: 10 -45 candelas/square 34.89 Red foot Bay Theater 334 Main Internal — NA NA Turned Off Bogart's Coffee 905 Ocean Internal 7.72 Low: 10 -45 candelas/square foot Newport Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 20.67.025.I.3 — Illuminated Signs): "Unless otherwise prohibited by this chapter, signs may be illuminated provided such illumination does not interfere with the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties or create any public safety hazards. Exterior light sources shall be shielded from view and directed away from adjacent properties. The Planning Director may order the dimming of any illumination found to be excessively bright, based on the following guidelines: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 7 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Recommended Sign Luminances Range of Sign Luminance Ambient Light Environment (candelas /square foot) LOW — Areas with no or little exterior lighting, 10 to 45 other than street lighting. Such areas include most residential areas, Newport Bay and the Pacific Ocean. MEDIUM — Areas where signs are relatively 45 to 70 isolated or areas adjacent to "low" ambient light areas. HIGH — Central business districts, highly 70 to 100 lighted streets or parking areas. VERY HIGH — High rise signs and signs in 100 to 140 areas of high sign competition. The consultants also provided information from the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) regarding guidelines for acceptable brightness levels for commercial sign installations, and that information is provided as Attachment 10 for the information of the Commission. In reviewing the IES information, it appears that illumination levels in the range of 7 to 50 candelas /square foot are reasonable for lighted fascia and wall signs, both on individual business locations and within shopping centers. Based on the discussions between the Planning Commission, the consultants and staff, the following summary of proposed final revisions to the Main Street Specific Plan Sign Standards are summarized: ❑ Promote 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; ❑ 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. ❑ Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of 30% of the allowable sign area; ❑ Allow the future use of interior - illuminated channel letters and prohibit the use of interior - illuminated "can signs"; ❑ 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 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 8 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 September 21, 2005 Study Session: On September 21, 2005 the Planning Commission conducted their final study session, and provided direction to staff to schedule the necessary public hearings to proceed with consideration of the proposed revisions as summarized above, and as discussed in further detail in the following sections of the Staff Report. Please refer to Attachment 7 to review the Minute Excerpt of this meeting. DISCUSSION As indicated above, the Planning Commission has considered these matters over a period of twelve months at five separate study sessions. Provided below is a general overview of the issues discussed at those study sessions. For additional information please refer to the appropriate Planning Commission Staff Report for each of the study sessions. These staff reports are available at the Department of Development Services for review and have not been provided with this Staff Report due to the length of the reports. They will also be available for review at the public hearing. September 22, 2004 Study Session Information: As an outgrowth to a code enforcement matter regarding the construction of a non - permitted sign within the Main Street Specific Plan area, staff was requested by the City Council to conduct study sessions with the Planning Commission to consider any applicable amendments to the sign requirements for businesses within the Main Street Specific Plan area. The Main Street Specific Plan was adopted by the City Council in July 1996. The Specific Plan includes provisions regarding `Building and Design Provisions ", and includes sign provisions under Policy 4, Signs. A copy of the complete Main Street Specific Plan is provided as Attachment 11 for the information of the Planning Commission. The provisions of the development standards set forth in the Main Street Specific Plan have also been incorporated into the Zoning Code of the City as the "Main Street Specific Plan Zone ". The provisions in the Zoning Code are consistent with the policy direction and land use controls as set forth in the adopted Main Street Specific Plan. A copy of the "Main Street Specific Plan Zone" provisions is provided as Attachment 12 for the information of the Planning Commission. Provided below is a general summary of the major sign requirements within the Main Street Specific Plan area, as set forth in Article 18 of the Zoning Code: ❑ Shopping Centers ❑ 1 free standing sign —15 foot maximum height and 60 square foot maximum sign area ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 9 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ monument signs not exceeding 4 feet in height and 10 square feet in area, one at each traffic entrance to the shopping center; maximum of 4 monument signs permitted ❑ Each Commercial Activity: ❑ 1 fascia or wall sign per building face visible from a street or parking lot area: ❑ allowable area of 1 square foot per lineal foot of building face; not to exceed 100 square feet per sign; ❑ minimum of 25 square foot fascia or wall sign; ❑ if speed limit on street fronting the store is over 35 miles per hour, fascia and wall signs are allowed at 1.5 square foot per lineal feet of building face, up to an additional 80 square feet of sign area; maximum sign area of 100 square feet does not apply (Provision only applies to buildings that face Pacific Coast Highway in the Main Street Specific Plan area); ❑ freestanding or pole signs are prohibited for an individual commercial activity. ❑ Projecting signs: ❑ 1 sign per ground level occupancy is allowed; ❑ 4 square foot maximum sign area; ❑ maximum projection from business wall of 3 feet; ❑ located at least 7 feet and no more than 12 feet above the sidewalk or lot grade ❑ only illuminated by external lighting; ❑ projecting signs over public sidewalk must obtain encroachment permit from Department of Public Works. ❑ Properties having a "Planned Sign Program" are not subject to above provisions. Attachment 13 provides the current language of the Municipal Code regarding sign provisions for the Main Street Specific Plan Area. November 3, 2004 Study Session: The basic items discussed at this Study Session have previously been described above and are not repeated here. February 23, 2005 Study Session: The basic items discussed at this Study Session have previously been described above and are not repeated here. May 4, 2005 Study Session: In addition to the items discussed above regarding this Study Session, the Planning Commission also received information from staff on the following topics: ❑ Deletion of Existing Code Standards regarding Sign Content — the Commission determined to revise portions of the Code to change references to "political signs" to "temporary noncommercial signs" in the proposed sign revisions. The reason for the change is that although cities can distinguish between commercial and noncommercial ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 10 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 signs, they cannot distinguish between types of noncommercial signs. Further, the City cannot enact a durational limit on political signs. Every federal court that has considered durational bans on political signs has found them to be unconstitutional. Staff is suggesting imposing a durational limit, such as 60 days, but then giving the option of removing or REPLACING the signs. Someone posting a temporary sign would be able to put up a new sign as soon as he took down the old one, but at least signs would not be able to become as severely weathered as signs that have no time limit on them. Staff will propose conforming amendments to make similar changes to the other political sign provisions of Article 18 (Sign Provisions). More information on this issue is provided in Attachment 14. ❑ Discussion Regarding Abatement Procedures for Signs that become Legal Non - Conforming if New Standards are Adopted — The commission determined to not establish any abatement procedures for legal, existing signs that would become non- conforming if new sign provisions are adopted, and that the new standards would only apply to new or replacement signs proposed by a project applicant. More information on this issue is provided in Attachment 15. September 21, 2005 Study Session: The basic items discussed at this Study Session have previously been described above and are not repeated here. PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS Provided below are the proposed amendments to the Zoning Code regarding this Zone Text Amendment. The amendments are broken into three separate sections for discussion and consideration by the Planning Commission: Proposed Definitions to be Added PROPOSED DEFINITIONS TO BE ADDED TO ARTICLE 2, DEFINITIONS, OF THE SEAL BEACH ZONING ORDINANCE "Section 28 -216.5 Candela. "Candela" means a measure of light intensity. A candela is equal to 1/60 of the luminous intensity per square centimeter of a blackbody radiating at the temperature of solidification of platinum (2.046 degrees Kelvin)." "Section 28 -217.1 Channel Letter. "Channel Letter" means three - dimensional, individually cut letters or figures, illuminated or non - illuminated, attached to a structure." ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards.PC Staff Report 11 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 "Section 28 -217.3 Channel Logo. "Channel Logo" means three - dimensional, individually cut trademark or symbol identifying a product or use, illuminated or non - illuminated, attached to a structure." "Section 28 -246.5 Logo. "Logo" means an established trademark or symbol identifying a product or use." "Section 28 -261 Negative Space. "Negative Space" means the open space surrounding the sign copy area of a sign area." "Section 28 -271.2 Sign Area. "Sign Area" means the entire area within a single continuous perimeter of not more than eight straight lines that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags." "Section 28 -271.3 Sign Copy. "Sign Copy" means the any graphic, word, numeral, symbol, insignia, text, sample, model, device or combination thereof which is primarily intended to advertise, identify, or notify." "Section 28 -271.4 Sian Copy Area. "Sign Copy Area" means the sign area occupied by copy. It is computed by measuring the area enclosed by straight lines drawn to enclose the extremities of the letters or numbers contained within said sign area." "Section 28 -271.5 Sian, Direct Illumination. "Sign, Direct Illumination" means a sign illuminated primarily by light whose source is located in the interior of the sign so that the rays of the light source are transmitted through a translucent material." "Section 28 -271.6 Sian, Indirect Illumination. "Sign, Indirect Illumination" means a sign illuminated primarily by light directed toward or across it by backlighting from a source not within it. Sources of illumination for such signs may be in the form of gooseneck lamps, spotlights, or luminous tubing." "Section 28 -271.7 Sign, Neon. "Sign, Neon" means an illuminated sign affected by a colorless, odorless light source consisting of a neon or gas tube that is bent to form letters, symbols, or other shapes." "Section 28 -271.8 Sian, Restaurant Menu. "Sign, Restaurant Menu" means a sign used to inform the public of the list of entrees, dishes, and foods available in a restaurant." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 12 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Proposed Sign Revisions To Apply I All Signage Regulations ❑ Section 28- 1801.1) is deleted in its entirety and replaced as follows: "D. Calculation of Sign Area. The area of an individual sign shall be calculated as follows. Single -faced Signs. Sign area shall include the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight lines that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags. The calculation of sign area for various types of single -faced signs is illustrated in Figure 1. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 13 Planning Commission StaffReport Zoning Text Amendment 05-3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of zoning Code November 9, 2005 Figure I Sign Area = Height x Width FRAMED SIGN I- Width ----------------- ---------------- 7: low X 1 --- ----------------- L Width I -------------- — ------------------ Y Emblem or CIE= ----------------- ------------- Width -T! ------------- Odd Shape Width ----------- Angled ZTA 05-3.Sip Standards.PC Staff Report 14 I - Width I r------------ ----------------- -- ------ -- -- -; C���1�1I�1CsEI: x I 1 f 25) -j- I L- 1-1-a --- tt ---- ----------------------------------- --------- 7;Multiple jElements ----------------------- - - ------ I--- Width ---------- ------------------------------ lJ X ----------------- ----------- I— Width -1 --------------------------- AP x Odd Shape It Width Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 2. Double -faced Signs. Where two faces of a double -faced sign are located two feet or less from one another at all points, or located at an interior angle of 45 degrees or less from one another, the sign area shall be computed as the area of one face. Where the two faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face shall be used. Where two faces of a double -faced sign are located more than two feet or 45 degrees from one another, both sign faces shall be counted toward sign area. See Figure 2. Ui I M I A Figure 2 Where distance between faces does not exceed 2 feet and interior angle does not exceed 45', total sign area = Face A or Face B, whichever is larger. Multi -faced Signs. On a three -faced sign, where at least one interior angle is 45 degrees or less, the area of two faces (the largest and smallest face) shall be summed to determine sign area. In all other situations involving a sign with three or more sides, sign area shall be calculated as the sum of all faces. 4. Three - Dimensional Signs. Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three - dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue -like trademarks), shall have a sign area of the sum of all areas using the four vertical sides of the smallest cube that will encompass the sign. See Figure 3. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 15 I�eq eB.ceD e:� 1 1 1 / I 1 1 i 1 1 � I 1 ' 1 1 . • 3 I 1 I , I Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Figure 3 Total sign area = Sum of all vertical sign faces of smallest cube encompassing the sign. 5. Sign area measurement. The measurement of sign area to determine compliance with the sign area limitations of this Chapter shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all framing, emblem, logo, representation, writing, or other display within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight lines. See Figure 4. Figure 4 2' 5' r IJOES-` ' 1 2 1 R DRYCIIANER1, ltY .5 _ 7' ;�LEANEBS � JOES 4• DRY CLEANERS s• �� Sign Area - 20.5 sq, ft. Sign Area -17.5 sq. ft. Sign Area - 32 sq. ft. ❑ Section 28- 1802.D, Abatement of Signs Relating to Inoperative Activities is deleted in its entirety, See Proposed Section 28- 1802.E.2, below for similar provisions. ❑ Section 28- 1802.E., Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signing is revised to read: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 16 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 "Section 28- 1802.E. Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signing. or- other 60-F-F-Mi—I d-- &e.6 md-Faalfidaetie I !iii•Y- s she -I L. a1 ' r ..� � 1. Maintenance of Signs. All signs, together with all of their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be properly maintained with respect to appearance, structural and electrical features. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times. All signs shall be subject to maintenance provisions as follows: a. Any location where business goods are no longer sold or produced or where services are no longer provided shall have 90 days to remove any remaining or derelict signs following notification by the City and at the expense of said property. Where the written notification has been given by the City and compliance has not been met within the required 90 day period, the City may cause the removal of such signs with the cost for such removal to be attached to the property. b. All signs shall be refinished to remove rust or other corrosion due to the elements and any cracked or broken faces and malfunctioning lamps shall be replaced within 90 days following notification to the City. c. Signs erected, installed, located or maintained in the city must comply with all applicable structural provisions of the most recently adopted versions of the Uniform Sign Code, California Building Code, and California Electrical Code adopted by the City. d. When a sign is replaced or removed, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that supported the sign shall also be removed. Affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the adjacent portion of the structure within 30 days of said replacement or removal. 2. Administrative Removal. Signs may be removed by the City in accordance with the following procedures: .a.. Illegal or Dilapidated Signs. If the Director of Development Services, or his designee, finds that a permanent sign is in violation of this Chapter, or is in disrepair, deteriorated, including peeling paint, prohibited, abandoned, illegal, or is in violation of the Building Code or any other laws and ordinances, he shall seek correction of the violations as provided for in the Municipal Code. The Director of Development Services shall inform the sign owner by a written notice that the sign is to be removed. b. Safety Hazard or on Public Right -Of -Way. The City Engineer, or his designee, without giving notice, shall have the authority to authorize removal of any sign which: (1) Poses an immediate threat to public safety; or (2) Is displayed in violation of the provisions of this Chapter or other City ordinances on or over any public right -of- way." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 17 Planning Commission Stafj`'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ Proposed New Section 1802.F., Legibility of Signs, to be added to read: "F. Legibility of Signs. Lettering on signs should be legible. Preferred character sizes for signs are as follows: Minimum Character Size (inches) Intended Reading Distance (feet) 3.5 60 4.0 70 4.5 80 5.0 90 5.5 100 or more ❑ Proposed New Section 1802.G, Materials, to be added to read: "G. Materials. Paper, cardboard, or other material subject to rapid deterioration shall be limited to signs displayed for no more than 60 days. Fabric signs shall be restricted to City Banners, Awning Signs, and Temporary Signs permitted pursuant to Section 28- 1801.C." ❑ Proposed New Section 28- 1802.H, Changeable Copy, to be added to read: "H. Changeable Copy. Changeable copy shall cover no more than 20 percent of the total sign area, except for the following uses which are allowed up to 75 percent of sign area to be changeable copy: all public and civic uses, indoor theaters, other public assembly uses, and fuel price signs." Proposed Sign Revisions To Apply To Main Street Specific Plan Area ❑ Amend Section 28- 1804.C, LC/RMD, C -O, C -SP, C -1 and C -2 Zones to delete all references to the C -SP Zone and to delete subsection 5.g, which sets forth projecting sign regulations in the C -SP Zone. The C -SP Zone is the Main Street Specific Plan Zone. ❑ Add Section 1804.D, C -SP Zone, to read: "D. C -SP Zone. The following signs are permitted in the C -SP zone: 1. One unlighted sign pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of the property on which the sign is displayed. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 18 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Parcel Size Lots of record and parcels not exceeding: 10,000 square feet ..... ............................... 10,000 square feet to 1 acre ..................... More than 1 acre ....... ............................... Sign Size .......... ............................... 6 sq. ft. ........ ............................... 25 sq. ft. ........ ............................... 50 sq. ft. 2. Temporary Noncommercial signs that do not exceed an aggregate surface area of 25 square feet per lot, up to 4 per lot. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed thirty-six inches by forty-eight inches. Said Temporary Noncommercial signs shall be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement. 3. Construction signs under the same restrictions as Section 28- 1804.A.4. 4. Except as otherwise provided in subparagraph 5.1 below, for each shopping center, identification signs are permitted as follows: a. One free - standing or pole identification sign containing the name and logo of the center. Sign not to exceed fifteen feet in overall height and not to exceed sixty square feet on one face of a double - faced sign. b. One monument sign not to exceed ten square feet in area and not to exceed four feet in height at each traffic entrance to the center, in no case shall more than four monument signs be placed in any shopping center. 5. Each commercial activity may have signing identifying the activity on the premises as follows: a. One sign per building face which is visible from streets or parking lot area. Said sign to be fascia or wall sign. b. Except as otherwise provided below, the maximum size of the fascia or wall sign shall be one square foot per lineal foot of building face, or one hundred square feet per sign, whichever is smaller. (1) Fascia or wall signs that utilize neon lighting exclusively shall be reduced in size by 25 %. (2) A fascia or wall sign may utilize neon lighting on not mare than 30% of the sign copy area and not be required to reduce the allowable sign area, C. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where buildings have less than 25 linear feet of frontage on a street, 25 square feet of signing will be permitted. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 19 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 d. Courtyard Signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Where businesses face a courtyard, and do not directly face Main Street, one single -faced or double -faced freestanding courtyard sign is permitted for tenant identification only, in addition to those on the building. (2) No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 7 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. (3) The total area of the courtyard sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of site street frontage or 20 square feet, whichever is smaller. (4) Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 2 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. (5) Each courtyard sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right -of -way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. e. Projecting signs shall be allowed subject to the following conditions: (1) "Projecting sign" means an attached sign (other than a flat - mounted sign) which projects out from a building or structure and usually has two message surfaces. (2) Projecting signs shall be allowed that: ❑ do not exceed four (4) square feet in area per side; ❑ project no more than three (3) feet from the wall to which attached; ❑ are located at least seven (7) feet but not more than twelve (12) feet above grade; ❑ reflect the business by incorporating symbols or logos of the business; ❑ have supports and brackets that are compatible with the design and scale of the sign; and ❑ are not internally or externally illuminated. (3) Each ground -level occupancy frontage may have one (1) such projecting sign if such sign is located near its primary entryway. Such sign shall be in addition to other signs allowed in Section 28- 1804.E.5. (4) No sign shall project into any public right -of -way unless the Director of Public Works shall have first issued an encroachment permit therefor. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 20 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 f. A monument sign is permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Where the face of the building sets back from the property line more than 15 feet, one single -faced or double -faced freestanding monument sign is permitted, in addition to those on the building, in accordance with the following: ❑ No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 5 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. ❑ The total area of the sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of street frontage or 40 square feet, whichever is smaller. ❑ Signs shall be located in a landscape planter a minimum of 2 feet wider than the sign itself, with a minimum 2- foot wide base for the monument sign itself. ❑ Placement shall conform. with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 3 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. ❑ Landscaping with automatic sprinklers shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign or 75 square feet, whichever is greater. ❑ If the sign is to be lit, all lighting shall be from internal illumination. ❑ Each monument sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right -of -way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. g. Restaurant Menu Signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Shall be located in a permanently mounted display box on the surface of the building adjacent to the entry. (2) The allowable area shall be a maximum of 6 square feet and shall be limited to the size of two pages of the menu utilized by the establishment. (3) Such sign shall be compatible with the scale, colors, and materials of the restaurant storefront. (4) Such sign shall not be used for additional business identification or additional signage. (5) Such sign shall not be included in the sign area calculation for the business. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 21 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 h. Permanent Window signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Permanent window signs shall not exceed 20% of the area of each window. (2) No window sign shall be displayed above the second story. (3) Permanent window signs shall be limited to individual letters placed on the interior surface of the window and intended to be viewed from the outside. White, black or gold leaf paint are the recommended colors. Glass- mounted graphic logos may be applied by silk screening or pre- spaced vinyl die -cut forms. (4) Interior Permanent signs within three feet of a storefront window shall be counted as a permanent window sign. (5) Permanent Window signs shall be allowed in addition to the aggregate sign area allowed for wall and projecting signs. i. Neon signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Neon signs and linear tubing shall be UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listed with a maximum 30 milliamps per circuit and shall be designed to accommodate a dimmer in order to reduce the brightness of the neon. (2) The neon manufacturer shall be registered with Underwriters Laboratories. (3) Neon tubing shall not exceed one half inch in diameter. (4) Neon lighting adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed one half footcandle measured at the property line. (5) Neon tubing shall not be combined with any reflective materials (e.g., highly- glazed tiles, mirrors, polished metal), or other similar material. (6) Interior neon signs placed within five feet of a storefront window shall have a transparent background and shall be counted as a permanent window sign. j. Sign illumination is subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Internal illumination is permitted on monument signs, channel letters and channel logos only. (2) Signs without channel letters and channel logos shall only be externally illuminated. (3) The permitted range of sign luminance shall be between 5 and 35 candelas per square foot of sign area, except for business properties that have property frontage on Pacific Coast Highway were a maximum of 70 cadelas /square foot is permitted. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 22 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 (4) Lighting shall be energy efficient, and shielded or recessed so that direct glare and reflections are confined to the maximum extent feasible within the boundaries of the site, and shall be directed downward and away from adjoining properties and public rights -of way. No lighting on private property shall produce an illumination level greater than one footcandle on any property within a residential zoning district except on the site of the light source. (5) A luminance report shall be prepared by a licensed engineer and submitted to the Director of Development Services within 90 days of the installation of any internal or external illuminated sign indicating compliance with subsections (3) and (4), above. Such report shall include the method of measurement, results of said measurement, and, if the measurement exceeded the provisions of subsection (3) above, the actions taken and resulting measurement information to achieve compliance with said subsection (3). k. Outlining of buildings or components of buildings (i.e., doorways, windows, rooflines, architectural features, etc.) by string lighting shall not be considered sign illumination, but shall be approved through the Minor Plan Review process. 1. Additional Review. (1) A Minor Plan Review approval by the Planning Commission shall be required for the signage for a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 2 or 3 separate tenant spaces. In making its determination, the Planning Commission shall consider such factors as the size, location and design of the proposed signs; the type of businesses to which the signs will pertain; the architectural character of the site and surrounding buildings; and the type of other permitted signage in the vicinity of the site. (2) A Planned Sign Program shall be required for the signage of a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 4 or more separate tenant spaces, pursuant to subsections C and D of Section 28 -1803. When property falls under an adopted planned sign program, the above subparagraphs a through 1 and Section 1804.D.4 do not apply. 6: Temporary Window Signs: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 23 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 a. Combinations of permanent and temporary window signs shall not cover more than 30 percent of any window (50% during December). b. No more than one temporary window sign is allowed per window; C. Commercial temporary window signs shall not be posted more than 3 times per calendar year, d. Commercial temporary window signs shall not be posted more than 30 days for each period; e. A Temporary Sign Permit approval is required to post commercial temporary window signs. Proposed City Council Policy Statement on "General Design Guidelines For Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area" Staff is also propo m sing that the Planning Commission recommend adoption of a City Council Policy Statement on "General Design Guidelines For Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area ". Staff has prepared the proposed Policy Statement and a copy is provided as "Exhibit A" of Attachment 2. This 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: ❑ Color; ❑ Materials; ❑ Sign Legibility/Negative Space; and ❑ Sign Illumination. 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 Zoning Code provisions. The policy statement and the proposed "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. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 24 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Commission, after receiving both written and oral testimony presented during the public hearing, recommend approval of ZTA 05 -3 to the City Council and the adoption of the proposed City Council Policy Statement on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area" to the City Council, as may be revised by the Commission after consideration of all public testimony. Should the Commission disagree, it has the option of recommending no change to the existing provisions of the Zoning Code relating to Main Street sign regulations. Should the Commission follow staff's recommendation, staff has prepared proposed resolutions recommending approval of ZTA 05 -3 and the adoption of the proposed City Council Policy Statement on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area" to the City Council. e Whittenberg, Director Department of Development S ices Attachments: (15) Attachment 1: Resolution Number 05 -54, A Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Seal Beach Recommending to the City Council Approval of Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3, Adopting New Definitions Relating to Signs; Adopting New General Provisions for All Signs; and Adopting New On- Premise Sign Standards within the Main Street Specific Plan Area Attachment 2: 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" Attachment 3: September 22, 2004 Planning Commission Study Session Minute Excerpt ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 25 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text-Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Attachment 4: November 3, 2004 Planning Commission Study Session Minute Excerpt Attachment 5: February 23, 2005 Planning Commission Study Session Minute Excerpt Attachment 6: May 4, 2005 Planning Commission Study Session Minute Excerpt Attachment 7: September 21, 2005 Planning Commission Study Session Minute Excerpt Attachment 8: "Main Street Sign Provisions — Ordinance Provisions from other Jurisdictions" Attachment 9: Main .Street Sign Illuminance Study Information, prepared by Downtown Solutions and Konsortuml, presented to the Planning Commission on May 4, 2005 Attachment 10: Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) Information, Provided by Konsortuml and Presented to the Planning Commission on May 4, 2005 Attachment 11: Main Street Specific Plan, adopted July 8, 1996 Attachment 12: Main Street Specific Plan Zoning Standards - Section 28 -1250 to 28 -1257 Attachment 13: Current Main Street Specific Plan Sign Standards"— Section 28- 1804.0 Attachment 14: Discussion Re: Deletion of Existing Code Standards Regarding Sign Content Attachment 15: Discussion Re: Abatement Procedures for Signs that Become Legal Non - Conforming if New Standards are Adopted ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 26 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 1 RESOLUTION NUMBER 05 -54, A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH RECOMMENDING TO THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT 05 -39 ADOPTING NEW DEFINITIONS RELATING TO SIGNS; ADOPTING NEW, GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALL SIGNS; AND ADOPTING NEW ON- PREMISE SIGN STANDARDS WITHIN THE MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 27 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 RESOLUTION NUMBER 05 -54 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH RECOMNIENDING TO THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT 05 -3, ADOPTING NEW DEFINITIONS RELATING TO SIGNS; ADOPTING NEW, GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALL SIGNS; AND ADOPTING NEW ON- PREMISE SIGN STANDARDS WITHIN THE 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: ❑ Amend Article 2, Definitions, to add new definitions regarding signs; ❑ Amend Article 18, Sign Provisions, as follows: ❑ Amend Section 28- 1801.D., Calculation of Sign Area; ❑ Delete existing Section 28- 1802.E, Maintenance of Signs, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.E., Maintenance and Administrative Removal; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.F., Legibility of Signs; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.G., Material; and ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.H., Changeable Copy. ❑ Revise Section 28 -1804, Permitted Signs, Sub - Section C. to delete all provisions regarding the "C -SP" zone provisions (Main Street Specific Plan Area); ❑ Add a new Sub - Section D, "C -SP Zone" with new sign standards for the Main Street Specific Plan Area that will; ❑ 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.); ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 28 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of 30% of the allowable sign area (Section 28- 1804.D.5.b.); ❑ Allow for courtyard signs when businesses do not face Main Street and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.d.) ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow restaurant menu signs not larger than 6 square feet and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.g.); ❑ Allow permanent window signs and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ Establish standards for use of neon lighting (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ 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.); ❑ 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.); ❑ 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.); ❑ Establish a "Planned Sign Program" requirements for certain multi -tenant buildings and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.k.); and ❑ Establishes standards for "Temporary Window Signs (Section 28- 1804.D.6.). Section 3. Pursuant to 14 Calif. Code of Regs. § 15305, staff has determined as follows: The application for Zoning Text. Amendment 05 -3 is categorically exempt from review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to 14 Calif. Code of Regs. § 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; § 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; § 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 § 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 4. A duly noticed public hearing was held by the Planning Commission on November 9, 2005 to consider Zone Text Amendment 05 -3. Section 5. The record of the hearing of November 9, 2005 indicates the following: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 29 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 (a) At said public hearing there was oral and written testimony and evidence received by the Planning Commission. (b) The proposed text amendment will revise the City's zoning ordinance and enhance the ability of the City to ensure orderly and planned development in the City through an amendment of the zoning requirements for on- premise signs throughout the community and particularly within the main Street Specific Plan area. (c) The proposed amendments are summarized above in Section 2 of this Resolution. Section 6. Based upon the facts contained in the record, including those stated in §4 of this resolution and pursuant to §§ 28 -2600 of the City's Code, the Planning Commission makes the following findings: (a) Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 is consistent with the provisions of the various elements of the City's General Plan. Accordingly, the proposed new sign regulations are consistent with the General Plan. The proposed amendment will not result in changes inconsistent with the existing provisions of the General Plan. (b) The proposed text amendment will revise the City's zoning ordinance and enhance the ability of the City to ensure orderly and planned development in the City through an amendment of the zoning requirements for on- premise signs throughout the community and particularly within the main Street Specific Plan area. Section 7. Based upon the foregoing, the Planning Commission hereby recommends approval of Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 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 day of , 2005, by the following vote. AYES: Commissioners ___ NOES: Commissioners ABSENT: Commissioners ABSTAIN: Commissioners ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 30 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Gordon Shanks Chairman of the Planning Commission Lee Whittenberg Secretary of the Planning Commission ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 31 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 "EXHIBIT A" A. PROPOSED DEFINITIONS TO BE ADDED TO ARTICLE 2, DEFINITIONS, OF THE SEAL BEACH ZONING ORDINANCE "Section 28 -216.5 Candela. "Candela" means a measure of light intensity. A candela is equal to 1/60 of the luminous intensity per square centimeter of a blackbody radiating at the temperature of solidification of platinum (2.046 degrees Kelvin)." "Section 28 -217.1 Channel Letter. "Channel Letter" means three - dimensional, individually cut letters or figures, illuminated or non - illuminated, attached to a structure." "Section 28 -217.3 Channel Logo. "Channel Logo" means three - dimensional, individually cut trademark or symbol identifying a product or use, illuminated or non - illuminated, attached to a structure." "Section 28 -246.5 Logo. "Logo" means an established trademark or symbol identifying a product or use." "Section 28 -261 Negative Space. "Negative space"' means the open space surrounding the sign copy area of a sign area." "Section 28 -271.2 Sign Area. "Sign Area" means the entire area within a single continuous perimeter of not more than eight straight lines that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags." "Section 28 -271.3 Sign Copy. "Sign Copy" means the any graphic, word, numeral, symbol, insignia, text, sample, model, device or combination thereof which is primarily intended to advertise, identify, or notify." "Section 28 -271.4 Sign Copy Area. "Sign Copy Area" means the sign area occupied by copy. It is computed by measuring the area enclosed by straight lines drawn to enclose the extremities of the letters or numbers contained within said sign area." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 32 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 "Section 28 -271.5 Sign, Direct Illumination. "Sign, Direct Illumination" means a sign illuminated primarily by light whose source is located in the interior of the sign so that the rays of the light source are transmitted through a translucent material." "Section 28 -271.6 Sign, Indirect Illumination. "Sign, Indirect Illumination" means a sign illuminated primarily by light directed toward or across it by backlighting from a source not within it. Sources of illumination for such signs may be in the form of gooseneck lamps, spotlights, or luminous tubing." "Section 28 -271.7 Sign, Neon. "Sign, Neon" means an illuminated sign affected by a colorless, odorless light source consisting of a neon or gas tube that is bent to form letters, symbols, or other shapes." "Section 28 -271.8 Sign, Restaurant Menu. "Sign, Restaurant Menu" means a sign used to inform the public of the list of entrees, dishes, and foods available in a restaurant." B. PROPOSED SIGN REVISIONS TO APPLY TO ALL SIGNAGE REGULATIONS ❑ Section 28- 1801.D is deleted in its entirety and replaced as follows: "D. Calculation of Sign Area. The area of an individual sign shall be calculated as follows. 1. Single -faced Signs. Sign area shall include the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight lines that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags. The calculation of sign area for various types of single -faced signs is illustrated in Figure 1. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 1 33 ON "D. Calculation of Sign Area. The area of an individual sign shall be calculated as follows. 1. Single -faced Signs. Sign area shall include the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight lines that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags. The calculation of sign area for various types of single -faced signs is illustrated in Figure 1. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 1 33 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05-3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Figure I Sip Area = Height x Width FRAMED SIGN 1� Width ------------------ ---------------- low ----- ----------------- Width r— ------------------- ---------------- Emblem or X Decal ------------ -- ----------- I— Width ----------- ------------ Odd Shape ___________J Width - I Angled ZTA 05-3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 34 I Width I _ r___________ _______________________________ : --- IDS I-0- ----- I ----------------------------------- --------- :Multiple OJ :c I.Elements ------------- -------- I-- Width --d Width ------------- T - - ------------------------------ ape 4-to-is Width --------------------------- X Odd Shape I I Width �I Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 2. Double -faced Signs. Where two faces of a double -faced sign are located two feet or less from one another at all points, or located at an interior angle of 45 degrees or less from one another, the sign area shall be computed as the area of one face. Where the two faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face shall be used. Where two faces of a double -faced sign are located more than two feet or 45 degrees from one another, both sign faces shall be counted toward sign area. See Figure 2. i Q� m U v IL x e Figure 2 Where distance between faces does not exceed 2 feet and interior angle does not exceed 45 °, total sign area = Face A or Face B. whichever is larger. 3. Multi -faced Signs. On a three -faced sign, where at least one interior angle is 45 degrees or less, the area of two faces (the largest and smallest face) shall be summed to determine sign area. In all other situations involving a sign with three or more sides, sign area shall be calculated as the sum of all faces. 4. Three- Dimensional Signs. Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three- dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue -like trademarks), shall have a sign area of the sum of all areas using the four vertical sides of the smallest cube that will encompass the sign. See Figure 3. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 35 Face B ---- Nc -;A ,pace_ ` -- �r- 1 1 1 1 1 1 � 1 1 1 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Figure 3 Total sign area = Sum of all vertical sign faces of smallest cube encompassing the sign. Sign area measurement. The measurement of sign area to determine compliance with the sign area limitations of this Chapter shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all framing, emblem, logo, representation, writing, or other display within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight lines. See Figure 4. I AN JUEST ORYCIFANER11.5' 7' Sign Area - 20.5 sq. ft. Figure 4 21 'DRY S CLEANERS 1+5� 15. , . Sign Area -17.5 sq. ft. JOES 41 DRY CLEANERS Sign Area - 32 sq. ft. ❑ Section 28- 1802.D, Abatement of Signs Relating to Inoperative Activities is deleted in its entirety. See Proposed Section 28- 1802.E.2, below for similar provisions. ❑ Section 28- 1802.E., Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signing is revised to read: "Section 28- 1802.E. Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signing. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 36 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning TextAmendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 1. Maintenance of Signs. All signs, together with all of their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be properly maintained with respect to appearance, structural and electrical features. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times. All signs shall be subject to maintenance provisions as follows: a. Any location where business goods are no longer sold or produced or where services are no longer provided shall have 90 days to remove any remaining or derelict signs following notification by the City and at the expense of said property. Where the written notification has been given by the City and compliance has not been met within the required 90 day period, the City may cause the removal of such signs with the cost for such removal to be attached to the property. b. All signs shall be refinished to remove rust or other corrosion due to the elements and any cracked or broken faces and malfunctioning lamps shall be replaced within 90 days following notification to the City. c. Signs erected, installed, located or maintained in the city must comply with all applicable structural provisions of the most recently adopted versions of the Uniform Sign Code, California Building Code, and California Electrical Code adopted by the City. d. When a sign is replaced or removed, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that supported the sign shall also be removed. Affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the adjacent portion of the structure within 30 days of said replacement or removal. 2. Administrative Removal. Signs may be removed by the City in accordance with the following procedures: a. Illegal or Dilapidated Signs. If the Director of Development Services, or his designee, finds that a permanent sign is in violation of this Chapter, or is in disrepair, deteriorated, including peeling paint, prohibited, abandoned, illegal, or is in violation of the Building Code or any other laws and ordinances, he shall seek correction of the violations as provided for in the Municipal Code. The Director of Development Services shall inform the sign owner by a written notice that the sign is to be removed. b. Safety Hazard or on Public Right -Of -Way. The City Engineer, or his designee, without giving notice, shall have the authority to authorize removal of any sign which: (1) Poses an immediate threat to public safety; or (2) Is displayed in violation of the provisions of this Chapter or other City ordinances on or over any public right -of- way." ❑ Proposed New Section 1802.F., Legibility of Signs, to be added to read: "F. Legibility of Signs. Lettering on signs should be legible. Preferred character sizes for signs are as follows: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 37 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Minimum Character Size (inches) Intended Reading Distance (feet) 3.5 60 4.0 70 4.5 80 5.0 90 5.5 100 or more ❑ Proposed New Section 1802.G, Materials, to be added to read: "G. Materials. Paper, cardboard, or other material subject to rapid deterioration shall be limited to signs displayed for no more than 60 days. Fabric signs shall be restricted to City Banners, Awning Signs, and Temporary Signs permitted pursuant to Section 28- 1801.C." ❑ Proposed New Section 28- 1802.H, Changeable Copy, to be added to read: "H. Changeable Copy. Changeable copy shall cover no more than 20 percent of the total sign area, except for the following uses which are allowed up to 75 percent of sign area to be changeable copy: all public and civic uses, indoor theaters, other public assembly uses, and fuel price signs." C. PROPOSED SIGN REVISIONS TO APPLY TO MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA ❑ Section 28- 1804..C, LC/RMD, C -O, C -SP, C -1 and C -2 Zones, is amended to delete all references to the C -SP Zone and to delete subsection 5.g, which sets forth projecting sign regulations in the C -SP Zone, and is amended to read: "C. LC/RMD, C -O, C -1 and C -2 Zones. The following signs are permitted in the LC /RMD, C -O, C -1 and C -2 zones: 1. One unlighted sign pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of the property on which the sign is displayed. ParcelSize ........................................................ ............................... Sign Size Lots of record and parcels not exceeding: 10,000 square feet ............................................... ............................... 6 sq. ft. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 38 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 10,000 square feet to 1 acre .............................. ............................... 25 sq. ft. Morethan 1 acre ............................................... ............................... 50 sq. ft. 2. Temporary Noncommercial signs that do not exceed an aggregate surface area of 25 square feet per lot, up to 4 per lot. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed thirty-six inches by forty-eight inches. Said Temporary Noncommercial signs shall be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement. 3. Construction signs under the same restrictions as Section 28- 1804(1)(d). 4. For each shopping center, identification signs are permitted as follows: a. One free - standing or pole identification sign containing the name and logo of the center. Sign not to exceed fifteen feet in overall height and not to exceed sixty square feet on one face of a double - faced sign. b. One monument sign not to exceed ten square feet in area and not to exceed four feet in height at each traffic entrance to the center, in no case shall more than four monument signs be placed in any shopping center. 5. Each commercial activity may have signing identifying the activity on the premises as follows: a. One sign per building face which is visible from streets or parking lot area. Said sign to be fascia or wall sign. b. Size of fascia or wall sign shall be one square foot per lineal foot of building face, not to exceed one hundred square feet per sign. C. In lieu of one or more fascia or wall signs, one free - standing or pole sign not to exceed fifteen feet in overall height may be erected on the parcel or building site on which the building is located. Maximum size of sign shall not exceed sixty square feet per face of a double faced sign. d. In case of buildings having less than twenty -five linear feet of frontage on a street, twenty -five square feet of signing will be permitted. e. In cases where a business is located on a street with a speed limit of thirty-five mph or more, a free standing sign or larger fascia or ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 39 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 wall sign will be permitted. The larger may be an additional one- half square foot per lineal foot of building frontage not to exceed eighty additional square feet. (See subparagraphs 1, 2, 3, above). The maximum sign area per sign of one hundred square feet does not apply in this case. f. No more than two items of information will be permitted per sign. An example of one item of information would be the name of the business, specialty item, unique service, etc. 6. When property falls under an adopted planned sign program the above provisions do not apply." ❑ Section 1804.D, C -SP Zone, is added to read: "D. C -SP Zone. The following signs are permitted in the C -SP zone: 1. One unlighted sign pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of the property on which the sign is displayed. Parcel Size Sign Size Lots of record and parcels not exceeding: 10,000 square feet ............................................... ............................... 6 sq. ft. 10,000 square feet to 1 acre .............................. ............................... 25 sq. ft. More than 1 acre ............................................... ............................... 50 sq. ft. 2. Temporary Noncommercial signs that do not exceed an aggregate surface area of 25 square feet per lot, up to 4 per lot. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed thirty-six inches by forty-eight inches. Said Temporary Noncommercial signs shall be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement. 3. Construction signs under the same restrictions as Section 28- 1804.A.4. 4. Except as otherwise provided in subparagraph 5.k below, for each shopping center, identification signs are permitted as follows: a. One free - standing or pole identification sign containing the name and logo of the center. Sign not to exceed fifteen feet in overall height and not to exceed sixty square feet on one face of a double - faced sign. b. One monument sign not to exceed ten square feet in area and not to exceed four feet in height at each traffic entrance to the center, in ZTA 05 -3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 40 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 no case shall more than four monument signs be placed in any shopping center. 5. Each commercial activity may have signing identifying the activity on the premises as follows: a. One sign per building face which is visible from streets or parking lot area. Said sign to be fascia or wall sign. b. Except as otherwise provided below, the maximum size of the fascia or wall sign shall be one square foot per lineal foot of building face, or one hundred square feet per sign, whichever is smaller. (1) Fascia or wall signs that utilize neon lighting exclusively shall be reduced in size by 25 %. (2) A fascia or wall sign may utilize neon lighting on not mare than 30% of the sign copy area and not be required to reduce the allowable sign area, C. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where buildings have less than 25 linear feet of frontage on a street, 25 square feet of signing will be permitted. d. Courtyard Signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Where businesses face a courtyard, and do not directly face Main Street, one single -faced or double -faced freestanding courtyard sign is permitted for tenant identification only, in addition to those on the building. (2) No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 7 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. (3) The total area of the courtyard sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of site street frontage or 20 square feet, whichever is smaller. (4) Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 2 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. (5) Each courtyard sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right -of -way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. e. Projecting signs shall be allowed subject to the following conditions: (1) "Projecting sign" means an attached sign (other than a flat - mounted sign) which projects out from a building or structure and usually has two message surfaces. . ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 41 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 (2) Projecting signs shall be allowed that: ❑ do not exceed four (4) square feet in area per side; ❑ project no more than three (3) feet from the wall to which attached; ❑ are located at least seven (7) feet but not more than twelve (12) feet above grade; ❑ reflect the business by incorporating symbols or logos of the business; ❑ have supports and brackets that are compatible with the design and scale of the sign; and ❑ are not internally or externally illuminated. (3) Each ground -level occupancy frontage may have one (1) such projecting sign if such sign is located near its primary entryway. Such sign shall be in addition to other signs allowed in Section 28- 1804.E.5. (4) No sign shall project into any public right -of -way unless the Director of Public Works shall have first issued an encroachment permit therefor. f. A monument sign is permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Where the face of the building sets back from the property line more than 15 feet, one single -faced or double -faced freestanding monument sign is permitted, in addition to those on the building, in accordance with the following: ❑ No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 5 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. ❑ The total area of the sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of street frontage or 40 square feet, whichever is smaller. ❑ Signs shall be located in a landscape planter a minimum of 2 feet wider than the sign itself, with a minimum 2- foot wide base for the monument sign itself. ❑ Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 3 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. ❑ Landscaping with automatic sprinklers shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign or 75 square feet, whichever is greater. ❑ If the sign is to be lit, all lighting shall be from internal illumination. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 42 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 43 ❑ Each monument sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right -of -way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. g. Restaurant Menu Signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Shall be located in a permanently mounted display box on the surface of the building adjacent to the entry. (2) The allowable area shall be a maximum of 6 square feet and shall be limited to the size of two pages of the menu utilized by the establishment. (3) Such sign shall be compatible with the scale, colors, and materials of the restaurant storefront. (4) Such sign shall not be used for additional business identification or additional signage. (5) Such sign shall not be included in the sign area calculation for the business. h. Permanent Window signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Permanent window signs shall not exceed 20% of the area of each window. (2) No window sign shall be displayed above the second story. (3) Permanent window signs shall be limited to individual letters placed on the interior surface of the window and intended to be viewed from the outside. White, black or gold leaf paint are the recommended colors. Glass - mounted graphic logos may be applied by silk screening or pre- spaced vinyl die -cut forms. (4) Interior Permanent' signs within three feet of a storefront window shall be counted as a permanent window sign. (5) Permanent Window signs shall be allowed in addition to the aggregate sign area allowed for wall and projecting signs. i. Neon signs are permitted subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Neon signs and linear tubing shall be UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listed with a maximum 30 milliamps per circuit and shall be designed to accommodate a dimmer in order to reduce the brightness of the neon. (2) The neon manufacturer shall be registered with Underwriters Laboratories. (3) Neon tubing shall not exceed one half inch in diameter. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 43 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 (4) Neon lighting adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed one half footcandle measured at the property line. (5) Neon tubing shall not be combined with any reflective materials (e.g., highly - glazed tiles, mirrors, polished metal), or other similar material. (6) Interior neon signs placed within five feet of a storefront window shall have a transparent background and shall be counted as a permanent window sign. j. Sign illumination is subject to the following requirements and conditions: (1) Internal illumination is permitted on monument signs, channel letters and channel logos only. (2) Signs without channel letters and channel logos shall only be externally illuminated. (3) The permitted range of sign luminance shall be between 5 and 35 candelas per square foot of sign area, except for business properties that have property frontage on Pacific Coast Highway were a maximum of 70 cadelas /square foot is permitted. (4) Lighting shall be energy efficient, and shielded or recessed so that direct glare and reflections are confined to the maximum extent feasible within the boundaries of the site, and shall be directed downward and away from adjoining properties and - public rights -of way. No lighting on private property shall produce an illumination level greater than one footcandle on any property within a residential zoning district except on the site of the light source. (5) A luminance report shall be prepared by a licensed engineer and submitted to the Director of Development Services within 90 days of the installation of any internal or external illuminated sign indicating compliance with subsections (3) and (4), above. Such report shall include the method of measurement, results of said measurement, and, if the measurement exceeded the provisions of subsection (3) above, the actions taken and resulting measurement information to achieve compliance with said subsection (3). k. Outlining of buildings or components of buildings (i.e., doorways, windows, rooflines, architectural features, etc.) by string lighting shall not be considered sign illumination, but shall be approved through the Minor Plan Review process. 1. Additional Review. (1) A Minor Plan Review approval by the Planning Commission shall be required for the signage for a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 44 Planning Commission Stafj`'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 2 or 3 separate tenant spaces. In making its determination, the Planning Commission shall consider such factors as the size, location and design of the proposed signs; the type of businesses to which the signs will pertain; the architectural character of the site and surrounding buildings; and the type of other permitted signage in the vicinity of the site. (2) A Planned Sign Program shall be required for the signage of a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 4 or more separate tenant spaces, pursuant to subsections C and D of Section 28 -1803. When property falls under an adopted planned sign program, the above subparagraphs a through 1 and Section 1804.D.4 do not apply. 6. Temporary Window Signs: a. Combinations of permanent and temporary window signs shall not cover more than 30 percent of any window (50% during December). b. No more than one temporary window sign is allowed per window; C. Commercial temporary window signs shall not be posted more than 3 times per calendar year, d. Commercial temporary window signs shall not be posted more than 30 days for each period; e. A Temporary Sign Permit approval is required to post commercial temporary window signs." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 45 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 2 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" ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 46 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 RESOLUTION NUMBER 05 -64 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH RECOMNIENDING 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: ❑ Amend Article 2, Definitions, to add new definitions regarding signs; ❑ Amend Article 18, Sign Provisions, as follows: ❑ Amend Section 28- 1801.D., Calculation of Sign Area; ❑ Delete existing Section 28- 1802.E, Maintenance of Signs, entirely and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.E., Maintenance and Administrative Removal; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.F., Legibility of Signs; ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.G., Material; and ❑ Add new Section 28- 1802.H., Changeable Copy. ❑ Revise Section 28 -1804, Permitted Signs, Sub - Section C. to delete all provisions regarding the "C -SP" zone provisions (Main Street Specific Plan Area); ❑ Add a new Sub - Section D, "C -SP Zone" with new sign standards for the Main ' Street Specific Plan Area that will; ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow the use of neon lighting as an accent rather than the primary illumination source, such use of neon to not illuminate in excess of 30% of the allowable sign area (Section 28- 1804.D.5.b.); ❑ Allow for courtyard signs when businesses do not face Main Street and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.d.) ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 47 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ 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.); ❑ Allow restaurant menu signs not larger than 6 square feet and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.g.); ❑ Allow permanent window signs and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ Establish standards for use of neon lighting (Section 28- 1804.D.5.h.); ❑ 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.); ❑ 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.); ❑ 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.); ❑ Establish a "Planned Sign Program" requirements for certain multi -tenant buildings and establish standards (Section 28- 1804.13.51.); and ❑ 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. § 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. § 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; § 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; § 1531 L(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 § 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 November 9, 2005 to consider Zone Text Amendment 05 -3 and the proposed "Policy Statement" on "General Design Guidelines for Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area'. Section 6. The record of the hearing of November 9, 2005 indicates the following: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 48 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 (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: ❑ Color; ❑ Materials; ❑ Sign Legibility/Negative Space; and ❑ 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 § § 1 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 of the 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 Signs — Main Street Specific Plan Area" to the City Council as set forth on Exhibit A, attached to this resolution and incorporated herein. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Stmdards.PC Staff Report 49 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the Planning Commission of the City of Seal Beach at a meeting thereof held on the day of , 2005, by the following vote. AYES: Commissioners ... NOES: Commissioners ABSENT: Commissioners ABSTAIN: Commissioners Gordon Shanks Chairman of the Planning Commission Lee Whittenberg Secretary of the Planning Commission ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 50 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 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 12 -13 -05 12 -12 -05 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: ❑ Color; ❑ Materials; ❑ Sign Legibility /Negative Space; and ❑ Sign Illumination. The "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. 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 planned ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards. PC Staff Report 51 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 development in the City regarding designs for on- premise signs within the Main Street Specific Plan area 4. ISSUANCE Approved by City Council December 12, 2005. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 52 Planning Commission Stafj`'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 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 any one 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). B. Materials. 1. - The following materials are recommended for signs: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 53 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 (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 facade 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. Sign Legibility/Ne_-gative 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 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. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 54 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 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. OM-en tr Mediui n F`611116 Ex1Ir4bold Franklin Got - KI -C. Eurastfle Bela +rl Sa.n:s a .I Appropriate Fonts RE A. KIM. , r/r'�) itM-Ai,lKV 7 & &V H I lek- Inappropriate Fonts Intricate logos, inappropriate for signage s Simple and appropriate logos for signage 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. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff keport 55 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 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. Relationship Between Sign Copy Area And Negative Space �i AMERICAN DISCOUNT CENTER 40% Sign Copy Area and 60% Negative Space 60% A Sign Illumination. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 56 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 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 fagade. 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. Unacceptable Acceptable � h� AcaFa i6� h� 3 sii •Hm&dtryelloadligtrs =ill • _ R+Nim .WJPR idmin; to Fieftn1 9106 &A 11FAL 110PI 9 ' - ' ", r aiming is squired In prn mi gi- and lilt t froF . i Flowd Itght adm hang i ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 57 Planning Commission Staff Report Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 F— Unacceptable ! Acceptable - r— f wain - t . •.s: ;•fir L 4M • S�ed� fi�ro myr 1!C Iv�� IrsaQanlyk-9-rw bur" (=AffI;0000ww). SWI:34.059.e. uecored �J711 — I .° . M�O Opaq— ran.acar •'[hrse LImms my6ea wAlk iragnq -Li. —u Le M2, See +III Strer_t f iFfi'in+z ID ParknaR I.et UoWne I ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 58 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Unacceptable ! Acceptable 1 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. Signs comprised of individual letters mounted directly on a structure can often use a distinctive element of the structure's fagade 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 fagade, 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. Sign illumination shall not blink, flash, flutter, or change light intensity, brightness, or color. 8. 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. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 59 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 3 SEPTEMBER 22, 2004 PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION MINUTE EXCERPT ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 60 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 SEPTEMBER 22, 2004 PLANNING COMIAUSSION STUDY SESSION MINUTE EXCERPT "STUDY SESSION 6. Sign Requirements for Main Street Specific Plan Area Staff Report Mr. Whittenberg delivered the staff report. (Staff Report is on file for inspection in the Planning Department.) He provided some background information on this item and noted that attached to the Staff Report is a copy of the Main Street Specific Plan (MSSP), which was adopted in 1996 after a two -year work effort within the community. He said that based upon the provisions of the adopted MSSP, part of this plan fully incorporated into the Zoning Ordinance a number of standards specific to the Main Street area. He noted that the issue has come up based on a currently existing illegal sign in the Main Street area, and one of the Council Members has requested that the PC reconsider this issue. He said that Commissioner Deaton has presented some additional thoughts based upon concerns she has been hearing from neighboring residents regarding signs on Main Street. He then provided a PowerPoint visual presentation of signs along Main Street. Mr. Whittenberg noted that the Sign Provisions in the Code allow 1 square foot of signage for each linear foot of building street frontage up to a maximum of 100 square feet of sign area. He noted that most of the signs are fairly small, with some of the larger establishments having 50 -75 feet of street frontage, in which case, they may display larger signs. Commissioner Deaton asked is Bogart's is using all of its allowable signage space. Mr. Whittenberg stated that he did not know specifically if this was the case. He indicated that most of the time businesses get very close to the maximum sign space allowed. In viewing the signage for Seal Beach Liquor, Mr. Whittenberg commented that this is a style of signs popular in the 1940s and 50s. He stated that Seal Beach does not prohibit neon signs, but some cities do prohibit them because they don't like the way they look, primarily at night. Commissioner Deaton stated that although this might be categorized as a historic sign, it looks like it is no longer operational. In viewing the signage for The Old Town Gallery Mr. Whittenberg noted the sign projecting outward from the face of the building over the sidewalk and stated that the Sign Provisions for Main Street actually encourage this type of sign to allow pedestrians to easily identify the business as they walk along the sidewalk. He indicated that many businesses on Main Street have overhanging awnings with their signage painted on the awning. He said that these awnings are allowed subject to an encroachment permit issued by the Public Works Department. Chairperson Ladner asked if the trees along the sidewalk interfered with the visibility of the signage. Mr. Whittenberg stated that shade is needed on the streets and the trees are needed to make the area pedestrian friendly. Commissioner Deaton asked if the window signs on Cinnamon Productions are restricted to the same square footage requirements. Mr. Whittenberg stated that they are and window signs cannot cover more than 40 percent of the window area. Commissioner Roberts asked if A -frame signs are permitted. Mr. Whittenberg stated that they are not permitted, but if this were to be considered as a permitted use the City would have to look at this type of sign not interfering with handicapped accessibility, particularly on narrow sidewalks. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 61 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning TextAmendment 0-3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 He noted that many cities have pre- approved designs that can be used for signs placed in the public right -of -way. He indicated that although A -frame signs are not allowed, this is not strictly enforced unless the sign becomes a hazard to pedestrian using the sidewalks. Mr. Whittenberg stated that some businesses also place merchandise out on the sidewalk for display.. He noted that stricter enforcement is planned once replacement of newspaper racks is complete. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the old racks, which are scheduled for removal beginning October 1, 2004, are to be replaced with the new, approved racks. Commissioner Deaton inquired about banners. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the Code does make provision for banners. He noted that banners could be displayed for 30 days at a time for a maximum of 90 days during any year, with a 30 -day break between banner displays. Commissioner Sharp stated that the PC had previously conducted a study session on banners. Mr. Whittenberg stated that this had occurred approximately 4 -5 years ago, and as a result the City had adopted the ordinance provisions for banners. Commissioner Shanks asked if the City is responsible for putting banners across Main Street. Mr. Whittenberg stated that for a fee, the requesting organization could have City crews put up the banners. Mr. Whittenberg then pointed out a freestanding sign for Baytown Realty, which was constructed in the public right -of -way without having received permits from the City. He noted that because there is only one business on the property, a freestanding sign is not allowed. He indicated that City Council has asked that the Planning Commission look at whether it makes sense to allow a sign out on the sidewalk area to identify the businesses in buildings that are set back from the street. Commissioner Shanks asked if the freestanding sign would be allowed if it were constructed on the business owner's property. The Director of Development Services indicated that this type of sign would only be allowed in a shopping center, which is defined as "two or more businesses located on a lot." Commissioner Deaton asked if business owners had to apply for sign permits prior to putting up their signs. Mr. Whittenberg stated that a permit is required to place a sign on a building or to paint a sign on a structure or to paint window signs. He noted that hanging a sign inside the window does not require a permit. Commissioner Roberts stated that the section of the MSSP that deals with signs states that only one sign per commercial business is allowed. Mr. Whittenberg stated that this would be for the main sign, but there is also a provision for projecting signs and window signs. After the presentation, Mr. Whittenberg, noted that this would serve as introductory information on the issue of signs on Main Street. He stated that the PC could direct Staff to develop standards for allowance of freestanding signs on the sidewalk area for buildings that are set back from the public right -of -way on Main Street. Commissioner Deaton stated that the City already has an excellent sign program, and the projecting signs would allow traffic on Main Street to identify the businesses. Commissioner Roberts was in agreement. He said that the problem he has with Baytown Realty is that they incidentally put their name on the sign for advertisement along with the real estate listings that are displayed. Mr. Whittenberg stated that this is not unusual for a real estate business operation in a walkable downtown area, and Bayside probably would have placed a sign in the storefront if their building were closer to the front of the street. Commissioner Deaton noted that this is true, but she does not see why Baytown cannot have a similar sign on the business owner's property and not in the pubic right -of -way. Mr. Whittenberg stated that currently City Code states that a pole sign or a freestanding sign is not allowed unless there are multiple tenants on the property, so Baytown cannot have a sign like this as it is the only tenant on the property. He noted that the attorney office next door could do this as they have multiple tenants on ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 62 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 that property. Commissioner Deaton commented that she believes this determination should be based on square footage and not on the number of tenants. Mr. Whittenberg indicated that this is probably more an issue of visibility to drivers on the street more than it is for pedestrians walking on the street. Commissioner Shanks noted that the moving van that is frequently parked on the property also provides advertising with the name of the business painted on its side panels. He stated that the PowerPoint presentation shows that the City has done a good job of regulating signage as Main Street reflects an eclectic selection of storefronts and signs. He said that replacing the newspaper racks would be one of the biggest improvements in the looks of Main Street. He indicated that he does not really see a major problem with the Baytown sign, unless the owner wishes that the PC address this. He stated that the attorney's offices and the real estate office are not like an eating establishment or antique store where visitors stop at random, but customers /clients are usually there by appointment. Commissioner Deaton stated that when she visits a business for the first time, it can be difficult if there are no projecting signs to direct you. She said that the main complaint of the community is regarding Main Street Square downtown because the projecting sign is very bright, the other signage is all neon, and where before there was one business there are now seven, each one having its own signage displayed on a narrow storefront. She stated that there was no planning of signage for the whole building and its tenants, making this a very garish looking corner. She said she would like to look into restricting lumens rather than restricting neon signs, or restricting how much neon can be used, or rule out the use of neon altogether. Mr. Whittenberg stated that all of these issues could be considered, but ultimately whatever is put in place will be there for a long time, and does the PC wants to go back and have business owners change signage that was legally allowed by Code when the business first opened, as in his experience this can become a very contentious process. Commissioner Deaton suggested that when there is a large turnover of square footage, a ratio should be established to determine the size and number of signs that would be allowed. Mr. Whittenberg reiterated that for businesses on Main Street signage is currently based on the square feet of the building frontage with freestanding signs limited to a maximum of 60 square feet. He noted that because The Coffee Bean, Quizno's etc., face Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), these business are allowed 1.5 square feet of sign area per linear foot of building frontage. He cited a Code provision that states if a building fronts a street with a speed limit over 35 miles per hour, additional signage space is allowed. Commissioner Deaton argued that the freestanding sign for The Coffee Bean center does provide good visibility to vehicles on PCH, but the signage on the front of the building itself does not. She questioned why all of this extra signage is necessary. She stated that her Council member is concerned with a number of sign issues in town, one of which is illegal signs and the other is the signage at Main Street Square. She said her Council member was also concerned with businesses located to the rear of a property and how they could provide signage for them. Commissioner Deaton noted that the projecting signs are very effective in providing visibility. She recommended restricting the lumens or eliminating fluorescent lighting or minimizing the number of fluorescent lights allowed. Commissioner Shanks asked what the limit was for neon lights. Mr. Whittenberg stated there is no limit or prohibition to the use of neon signs. Commissioner Shanks noted that neon lights are not as light as the fluorescent lights, although with time they do fade. Mr. Whittenberg confirmed that these lights do fade. He noted that the issue of lumens is not currently addressed in the Code and this is something that Staff could look into. He cautioned that any changes in the Code would have to apply to new tenant signage only and not to any existing signs. He indicated that a Planned Sign ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 63 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning TextAmendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Program (PSP) could be applicable to Main Street Square; however, at this point this is a discretionary request by the property owner and is not imposed by the City. He stated that James Watson's property at 101 Main Street, which is currently undergoing a remodel, has a draft PSP currently under review by Staff, which will later come before the PC for review. He suggested that the PC might wish to consider restricting the lumens or the signage for large multi-tenant buildings on Main Street. Commissioner Deaton agreed and also suggested having a sign review committee that could be a part of the Commission meeting on an as needed basis. Commissioner Sharp asked if the City sign program was the same for the entire city. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the criteria are generally the same. He explained that for businesses on Main Street and throughout the city, the sign area allowed is 1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage up to a maximum of 100 square feet, and outside Main Street it is 300 square feet. He indicated that for buildings that front a street with a speed limit over 35 miles per hour the allowed sign area is 1.5 square feet per linear foot of building up to a maximum of 300 square feet. He noted that the larger businesses like Target, Kohl's, or Ralph's would have the larger 300 -foot signs, but most of the business buildings in town are not this large. Commissioner Sharp asked if there were restrictions as far as the location of a freestanding sign within a shopping center. Mr. Whittenberg stated that, generally, the shopping center is a single property, so the sign is usually placed in the parking lot area. He noted that most of the large shopping centers in town now have PSPs approved by the PC. Commissioner Shanks inquired about establishing guidelines for remodels ' on Main Street that create multiple units out of one building, as with Main Street Square. Mr. Whittenberg stated that provisions could be made to require a minimum number of tenants and set specific limitations on signage. Commissioner Shanks noted that the remodel of James Watson's building would be a good example. Mr. Whittenberg noted that once you have a PSP in place, depending upon the nature of the remodel, it might become necessary to totally amend the PSP to accommodate the remodel. Mr. Whittenberg then asked if the Code were changed, would the PC want Staff to require that all nonconforming signs be brought into conformance with the new standards within a certain period of time. He noted that the City Attorney would probably state this would be a difficult issue to deal with and would cause many. difficulties. He indicated that when a new tenant moves into a building, the new sign standards could be enforced. Chairperson Ladner asked if the PC had reviewed a PSP for Main Street Square. Mr. Whittenberg responded that the PC had not done so. Chairperson Ladner asked if the original plan had included the two neon "Open" signs in Javatini's window. Mr. Whittenberg stated that these are window signs that are not regulated by the City. Commissioner Roberts asked if the business owner has been approached and asked to reduce the lumens, which he believes would be the best approach. He stated that he likes the idea of creating new standards for newly established businesses, and favors approaching existing businesses with nonconforming signage in an attempt to reach a compromise in getting them to conform to the existing sign standards. He noted that he is not as concerned about how Main Street looks today, but about how it may look in the future. He stated that he is concerned about bicycles being placed on the roof of buildings, about overloading window space with signs, reducing the brightness of signs, regulating A -frame signs, and general maintenance of signs. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the PC must keep in mind that the City of Seal Beach has intentionally not developed theme standards for buildings on the street or for signs, as ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 64 Planning Commission Stafj`'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 when the MSSP was drafted the concept of a theme was rejected, opting instead for allowing individuality. He explained that this can lead to things that some people like and others that they do not care for, and this will be the case regardless of what the standards may be. Commissioner Deaton stated that she believes Main Street Square needs a PSP and she asked who approves them. Mr. Whittenberg responded that the PC does; however, these are by voluntary request by a property owner, and there is nothing in City Code that mandates them. Commissioner Deaton stated that she believes that buildings with 3 or more tenants should be required to have a PSP, particularly since many of the buildings on Main Street have the same owner, who could conceivably decide to consolidate two properties to create a larger, multi -tenant structure. Mr. Whittenberg stated that he probably would not have any new information on this issue for the PC until the October 20'' or November 3rd meeting. Commissioner Deaton asked if the PC would be meeting twice in October and November. Mr. Whittenberg stated that there would be two meetings in October, but traditionally the second meeting in November and December is usually canceled due to the holidays. Mr. Abbe asked if the PC had provided direction on whether they wanted an amortization period on existing nonconforming signs. Commissioner Deaton stated that she is not interested in doing this. Commissioner Roberts reiterated that this should not prevent Staff from approaching the businesses to see if they are willing to bring their signage into conformance and/or decrease the lumens in their signs." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 65 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 4 NOVEMBER 3, 2004 PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION MINUTE EXCERPT ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 66 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 NOVEMBER 3, 2004 PLANNING COMIVIISSION STUDY SESSION MINUTE EXCERPT "STUDY SESSION Vice - Chairperson Shanks commented that the information on recommendations for signs in West Hollywood that was provided with the Staff Report is exceedingly good. He indicated that although they are interrelated, he believes that the study session should separate city sign problems from lighting problems. Commissioner Deaton countered that when signs are illuminated, this would entail addressing lighting for signs. She stated that general illumination could be addressed separately, but illuminated signs should be looked at as a package. Vice - Chairperson Shanks stated that it appears that the two major questions regarding signs are related to: 1. Signage in the public right -of -way for buildings that are set back from the street. (Baytown Realty sign) 2. A -frame signs being placed along the sidewalk. He noted that the only area where there appears to be a serious problem with illuminated signs is at Main Street Square. He recommended first addressing the two issues noted above, and then addressing the problem of lighting. Commissioner Deaton noted that the Baytown Realty sign is a very brightly illuminated sign. She said that if the determination is made that this sign must be moved back, then a review of the intensity of the lighting would have to be conducted. She indicated that both the signs and their illumination should be looked at together. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the Staff Report attempts to summarize the main issues related to signs as previously discussed by the Planning Commission (PC). He said that at this point, Staff is seeking direction as to the specific issues the PC wishes to pursue. He indicated that one of the issues- discussed in the Staff Report is the minimum setback distance from the street for free- standing signs for buildings that are set back from the street, and the issue of the appropriate height and size of signs that would still allow them to be visible to drivers along the street. He noted that Staff does have access to a number of sign studies completed throughout the nation that can be presented to the PC for consideration. He explained that the height and size of most signs is determined by the speed limit on the street. The Director of Development Services then noted that the PC had also discussed the illumination of signs and how bright is "too bright," which would also impact the size of the signs, since no illumination would call for larger lettering. He commented that in his opinion both signs and illumination are closely tied together. Mr. Whittenberg then indicated that the main issues upon which Staff could focus are sign ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 67 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 lettering and illumination, a Planned Sign Program for properties with multiple tenants, regulation of interior window signs, and maintenance standards for signs. He suggested that Staff return with a draft of the guidelines by late January or early February 2005. Commissioner Deaton commented that Mr. Whittenberg had done an excellent job in preparing the Staff Report. She expressed her appreciation for the work put into this document. Commissioner Roberts also commented on the high quality of the report. He said he would like Staff to review the issue of signs for businesses that are set back from the street. He indicated that for businesses with an outside approach from a sidewalk along the side of the building, a marquee -type sign might be appropriate, as opposed to a freestanding sign, as this might be too cumbersome. He noted that a freestanding sign would be appropriate for a business with a street setback like that of Baytown Realty. Commissioner Deaton asked for the name of the signs that the Director of Development Services had mentioned at the last Study Session as not being frequently utilized by business owners. Mr. Whittenberg noted that these were called "projecting signs" that project outward from the building over the sidewalk to identify the business. He stated that the way the Ordinance is written this is only to identify those businesses that actually front a street, and businesses that are down a pedestrian sidewalk or courtyard area would not be able to utilize this type of signage. Commissioner Sharp stated that when composing a sign ordinance that covers so many different types of business and locations, you would almost have to consider each one on an individual basis. He noted that it would be very difficult to come up with a sign ordinance that everyone will be happy with. Vice - Chairperson Shanks said that he thinks what makes Main Street so interesting is the fact that the signs are all unique. He stated that it is a good idea to have a Planned Sign Program for larger, multiple tenant properties. He said that in reading the information provided about lighting, he did not see any information on how to handle illuminated signs inside businesses. Mr. Whittenberg said that Staff would conduct more research on this issue. The PC then authorized Staff to proceed as outlined with the items as discussed." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 68 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 5 FEBRUARY 23, 2005 PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION MINUTE EXCERPT ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 69 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 FEBRUARY 23, 2005 PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION MINUTE EXCERPT "STUDY SESSION 5. Main Street Specific Plan Sign Standards Staff Report Mr. Whittenberg delivered the staff report. (Staff Report is on file for inspection in the Planning Department.) He provided some background information on this item and stated that the Staff Reports on this issue have attempted to address a number of areas that the Planning Commission (PC) had requested Staff investigate, on ways to deal with the issue of signage along the Main Street area. He indicated that he would like to walk through each of these areas of concern so that Staff might receive clear direction on the proposed changes the PC would like to see included in the ordinance language. Mr. Whittenberg began with the development of standards for freestanding signs for business not built up to the sidewalk. He referred to the proposed basic design standards for monument and courtyard signs on Pages 3 and 4 of the Staff Report. He explained that a monument sign would be ground- mounted and is usually no more than 4 -6 feet high with no exposed pole supporting the sign. A courtyard sign would be a pole - mounted sign located either on the public sidewalk area or within a courtyard of a multiple -tenant building that is adjacent to Main Street. He noted that a courtyard sign provides signage for business complexes or a business that is, set back off the street. He indicated that currently City Code does not address these types of signs, and Staff feels that these proposed standards would be fairly compatible with the current signage along Main Street. He then proceeded to review the criteria for monument and courtyard signs. With regard to monument signs, Commissioner Deaton inquired about the sign for Baytown Realty, located at 321 Main Street, and noted that if the sign were located behind the sidewalk, it would not be. located on public property. Mr. Whittenberg reported that for this property and for some other properties along Main Street, the sidewalk does not end at the property line. He stated that in most cases the sidewalk does go right to the property line, but for the Baytown building and the building north of it, the sidewalk does not end at the property line. He noted that the buildings on both of these lots are set back quite a ways from the street, while most of the other buildings along Main Street are built right up to the front property line. He stated that-for the Baytown lot, the actual property line sits 6 -8 inches behind the sidewalk. Commissioner Deaton confirmed that for the Baytown lot, the sign would have to be 9 feet back from the sidewalk. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the sign must be set back 3 feet from the front property line. He noted that the measurement from the curb to the property line is usually 10 feet, and this would include all of the public sidewalk area. Commissioner Deaton asked the Director of Development Services what his estimate would be for the relocation of the sign in order to comply with these standards. Mr. Whittenberg estimated that the Baytown building is set back ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards.PC Staff Report 70 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 approximately 45 feet from the street with parking spaces in front of the building. He explained that Baytown might have to re- stripe the parking lot to put in a compact parking space in order to accommodate the monument sign in front of one parking space, as when the sign is re- located it would probably encroach into the parking space. Commissioner Deaton asked how far back from the sidewalk the sign would be when relocated. Mr. Whittenberg stated it would probably be 3.5 feet back from the sidewalk. He also noted that Staff has taken the measurements of the monument sign, and it is higher than the 5 -foot high standard proposed for monument signs, but it should not be a concern of the PC, as the Commission should consider what a reasonable sized sign would be for pre - existing signs and for any future requests for monument signs on properties that are set back a substantial distance from the sidewalk area. Commissioner Deaton asked how large the Baytown sign is. Mr. Whittenberg stated that it is 6 feet high from the ground to the top of the sign, and the sign itself measures 48 inches by 66 inches. He indicated that the PC would make a final determination on whether a sign of this height would be permissible if moved back 3 feet from the property line, or whether another maximum height would be more appropriate, and whether Baytown should comply with this standard. Commissioner Roberts asked if the PC should be discussing standards for information that is placed on a sign, or whether there are other sections of the City Code that address this. He noted that a 40 square foot sign could contain a lot of information that might create "clutter." Mr. Whittenberg indicated that the PC could require that monument sign be approved under the Minor Plan Review (MPR) process. He cautioned that there are many legal issues involved related to trying to restrict sign content. Mr. Abbe added that generally, you can make distinctions between commercial speech and non - commercial speech, but beyond this it is very difficult -to impose any type of content restrictions, which are almost universally struck down by the court. He explained that if a Code Enforcement Officer would have to look at and read a sign to determine whether or not it complies with the ordinance, except to determine whether it is commercial or non - commercial, would be a content -based restriction and would be struck down. Commissioner Roberts asked if regulating the size of lettering could mitigate this. Mr. Abbe stated that restrictions on the size of the sign and the letters could be imposed. Commissioner Deaton asked if telephone numbers must be allowed on signs. She indicated that when sitting on a former Planning Commission in another city, telephone numbers were not allowed because it was a safety hazard. Mr. Abbe stated that he would have to research this, but, if challenged, virtually all sign ordinances in the state of California would be found to be unconstitutional. Mr. Whittenberg referred to Page 9 of the Staff Report and explained that this begins a listing of how other cities within California have handled sign issues. Commissioner Deaton stated that under the proposed standards for monument signs there is no minimum frontage listed. Mr. Whittenberg stated that including a minimum standard should be discussed further and included as one of the sign standards. Commissioner Deaton asked if Staff had any idea of the number of businesses having monument signs. She noted that these would have to be businesses that are set back from the street 15 feet or more, but most of the businesses along Main Street are adjacent to the sidewalk. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the only ones he can think of are Baytown Realty and the attorney's office to the north of Baytown, with any others being located in a courtyard setting. Commissioner Deaton pointed out that for multi -tenant buildings, she could foresee the need for partitioning signs to allow a sign for each of the tenants. She asked if there were a way of ZTA 05-3 Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 71 Planning Commission Staf'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 restricting the signage to one tenant only. Mr. Whittenberg stated that this would be difficult to do with multiple -tenant buildings. He explained that generally the property would be allowed so many square feet of sign space and the owner would have to determine how the signage is to be divided and designated. He emphasized that this is why Staff recommends the NOR process, as this would allow the PC to see the signs and approve them before they are put in place. Commissioner Deaton expressed her concern with safety issues with drivers attempting to read or copy telephone numbers from signs while driving and having difficulty locating a business if lettering is too small or if signs are too cluttered with information. Mr. Whittenberg commented that in most cases people already know where the businesses are located. Commissioner Deaton countered that out of town visitors would not have the same familiarity with the town, and having clear, non - cluttered signs would make it easier to locate a specific business. The Commission was in agreement with Staff that the MPR process would provide the means for reviewing proposed signs for Main Street businesses. Commissioner Deaton stated that she concurred with Commissioner Roberts's suggestions for looking at the proportion of sign lettering, to ensure that signs are easily visible and to prevent clutter. Chairperson Ladner suggested that a sans serif type font for lettering might better lend itself to ease of reading. Mr. Whittenberg stated that Staff could provide information on methods for providing clarity in the style and type of text. Commissioner Deaton stated that she would like this concept carried into the all of the other signage concepts under review. Mr. Whittenberg then proceeded to the discussion on courtyard signs by stating that these signs are used for businesses that do not front Main Street, but have an interior courtyard within the building development. He cited the property across the street from Baytown Realty as an example of this type of design, and noted that this property has a pole - mounted sign that identifies the tenants. He stated that there is another location on Main Street with the businesses located along an alley -like pedestrian walkway with a sign that was permitted many years ago, but that today is not legally permitted under the current Main Street sign standards. He indicated that this sign is legal nonconforming and can remain since it was legal when originally constructed under the pre- existing sign standards. He noted that this sign is 86 inches tall with the sign area measuring 1.5 — 2 feet. He stated that Staff is recommending that the Code be amended to allow this type of sign in situations where business tenants do not have sign visibility to Main Street. The Director of Development Services then referred to Page 3 -4 of the Staff Report and reviewed the standards for courtyard signs. He indicated that if the Commission is in general agreement with the basic standard as presented, Staff would proceed with the formal text language to return to the PC for review at a future public hearing. Commissioner Deaton asked if businesses with pole signs could use planter boxes to meet the landscape requirement. Mr. Whittenberg explained that using planter boxes could lead to the problem of the boxes being taken and also present problems with water drainage from the planter boxes onto the city sidewalks. He suggested that the landscaped area not be required around small pole signs. Commissioner 'Shanks asked about the A -Frame signs that are placed on the sidewalk. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the sign standards do not permit these signs on public property. Commissioner Shanks asked if there were any intention of doing anything about this. Mr. Whittenberg said that there is no intention of allowing A -frame signs on public property. ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards.PC Staff Report 72 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Commissioner Shanks asked if they could be disallowed on cut ins on the business property. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the PC could decide to prohibit them. Commissioner Deaton stated that although many of these signs are initially placed on private property, they eventually make their way out to the public sidewalk. Mr. Whittenberg stated that many cities prohibit these signs outright, and others will allow them on a temporary basis, while others allow these signs for menu boards for daily specials for restaurants, but will usually designate a specific design for the boards. He noted that this could lead to conflict with other business owners who may feel that they should be allowed the same privilege. Commissioner Deaton stated that she believes these signs can contribute to the Old Town feel, but they can be a safety hazard when placed in the public right -of -way. She commented that some of these signs could be really "crummy looking." Chairperson Ladner asked how many of these signs are currently out on Main Street. Mr. Whittenberg stated that there are a few of these signs on Main Street; some very nicely painted and others that are simply hand scrawled writing on paper pasted to a piece of plywood and are not very attractive. Chairperson Ladner noted that if there are so few, why not prohibit them altogether. Mr. Whittenberg stated that this is essentially what the Code states; however, the signs are still permissible on private property. Commissioner Roberts suggested that Staff investigate to see how other cities have handled this issue. Commissioner Shanks referred to the issue of lighting and asked what the difference was between luminance and intensity. Mr. Whittenberg stated that he had attempted to get a clear response to this from a number of sign company professionals and none could provide a good answer. He said that he was not successful in attempting to schedule representatives from a sign company to present samples of illuminated signs to the PC. He then referred to Page 4 of the Staff Report to the Maximum Night -Time Intensity and Illuminance tables acquired from the City of Huntington Beach and indicated that Staff is not able to adequately demonstrate how bright lumens or foot candles would be at the designated levels of intensity of illuminance shown on the tables. Commissioner Roberts asked whether the City has an intensity meter. Mr. Whittenberg stated that it does not. Mr. Whittenberg suggested that further discussion on the issue of lighting be delayed until he can have a lighting professional present to provide this information and respond to questions from the Commission. Commissioner Roberts stated that he is concerned with the number of illuminated signs at one property. He noted that having more than one light source of the same intensity level creates twice the amount of light. Mr. Whittenberg pointed out that businesses on Main Street are very narrow (25 feet wide) and the signs for them are very close together, making this a very difficult issue to address. Commissioner Roberts asked if the PC should be concerned with a continuous light source sign or would it be all right to have blinking lights. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the City ordinance prohibits flashing or blinking signs. Commissioner Deaton asked about signs that change color. Mr. Whittenberg said that this would be considered to be flashing or blinking. He noted that Main Street is a pedestrian- oriented area; so lighted signs should be continuously lit. Commissioner Roberts stated that he would be uncomfortable in making any recommendations without a demonstration of what the light intensity values are. Commissioner Deaton asked how wide the Main Street Square . businesses are. Mr. Whittenberg said that the businesses along Main Street are approximately 20 -25 feet wide, and the ones along Central Avenue are 25 -30 feet wide, but their sign area is based upon the width of their building at one square foot of sign area ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 73 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 for each foot of building frontage, with a minimum of a 25- square foot sign. Commissioner Deaton stated that the signs for this building are really running together with no unifying theme. She asked why these internally illuminated signs are so much brighter than the other lighted signs on Main Street. Mr. Whittenberg stated that this was probably because these signs are new and the colors have not yet begun to fade. Commissioner Deaton stated that this was probably also due to the fact that there are so many of them in a row. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the brightness and colors for this type of sign would usually mute with time and exposure to the elements. He then recommended that the discussion on illumination and neon lights be deferred until a lighting professional is available to make a presentation before the PC. Commissioner Deaton stated that this was fine as long as this issue be revisited as soon as possible, as many of the business owners along Main Street are concerned that the sign standards may be inequitable. Chairperson Ladner asked what the minimum width is for businesses along Main Street. Mr. Whittenberg stated that there really is no minimum.. He explained that many of these buildings were constructed in the 1930's and a few businesses only measure 12.5 linear feet of frontage on the street, which is probably the minimum. He noted that Walt's Wharf is probably the widest building on Main Street measuring approximately 75 -80 feet in width. Mr. Whittenberg then referred to Page 5 of the Staff Report and the proposal for requiring a Planned Sign Program (PSP) for multi -tenant properties or single -use properties of a certain minimum street frontage or square footage threshold. He indicated that for a major rehabilitation on properties with 4 or more tenants wishing to redo their signage or the fagade of the building, they would have to apply for approval of a PSP. Commissioner Deaton asked if this would apply to new tenants coming into the Main Street Square spaces. Mr. Whittenberg stated that it would apply if this requirement were in place at that point. Commissioner Deaton stated that she would prefer that the requirement be based. upon number of tenants and linear footage of less than 25 feet. She noted that using the 4 tenant requirement could still ' lead to problems, as a small building that is divided up into 3 smaller parcels would then have too many signs too close together. The same would apply to two -story buildings having 2 businesses downstairs and one upstairs. She explained that under the proposed requirement, these buildings would not require a PSP, as they would be under the 4 -tenant requirement. She stated that requiring a PSP would provide for better coordination of signage for businesses along Main Street. Commissioner Roberts stated that the PC might be getting too restrictive with regard to sign requirements for Main Street, but he said he would prefer limiting the number of businesses allowed per building to two and adding the requirement for a PSP for any subdivision of a building into two or more businesses. Commissioner Deaton stated that she did not see this as restrictive, but requiring a PSP would prevent having a "hodge podge" of signs as buildings get subdivided. Mr. Whittenberg stated that when business have been in town for a long time, like Walt's Wharf, Ace Hardware, or Bank of America, the public gets used to seeing them and when something happens that creates a change in the building, as with John's Food King, it can create issues like this. He explained that Staff is attempting to come up with the best way to deal with these issues. He said that the PSP could be used for multiple tenant properties of 4 or more tenants, but the PC might still wish to ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 74 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 require a MPR for subdivisions of existing buildings to less than 4 tenants. He indicated that the PSP process is much more involved than a MPR, as it is similar to the process for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) requiring a $750 application fee and mailing of public notices to all resident/occupants within 300 feet. Commissioner Deaton stated that she was not aware that the PSP would be so involved, and as such, the PC would have to look more closely at whether or not this should be required. She indicated that the biggest problem with Main Street Square was the issue of the illuminated signs and the signage not remaining consistent with an Old Town concept. Mr. Whittenberg noted that Staff has received a number of calls from the public stating that they believe the Main Street Square "looks absolutely great now." Commissioner Deaton stated that although it is a beautiful building, it is not in keeping with Old Town and the historic signs. Mr. Whittenberg explained that currently there is nothing in the City's sign ordinances that deals with requiring specific sign styles. Commissioner Deaton stated that this was not what she was advocating. Mr. Whittenberg noted that it would be difficult to define a specific style for signage, and to address this to everyone's satisfaction. Commissioner Deaton stated that the main concern was with the lumens and intensity of lighted signs. The Director of Development Services stated that Staff would prepare language for multiple -tenant properties of 4 or more tenants, and for the MPR process for existing buildings with less than 4 tenants that are subdivided. He then recommended that the Commission recess for 5 minutes. The meeting was recessed at 8:45 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 8:50 p.m. Mr. Whittenberg referred to Pages 5 -6 of the Staff Report regarding standards on sign area for permanent and temporary window signs. He clarified that permanent signs identifying the business or product cannot exceed 20 percent of the window area, cannot be displayed above the second floor, and must be limited to individual letters that are painted or stenciled on. With regard to the tent content, the Director of Development Services deferred to the City Attorney who added that regulating text and content could be accomplished through size limitation or letter size requirements. Mr. Whittenberg stated that some of the sample sign ordinances provided include specific standards for letter or object size. He commented that window signs are not really designed to be easily read by motorists, but by pedestrians. He noted that any sign within 3 feet of a storefront would be counted as a permanent window sign and would be included as part of the 20 percent limit for window coverage, and window signs would be in addition to the aggregate sign area allowed for wall and projecting signs. Commissioner Roberts asked if the 20 percent would include signs showing store hours and "in case of emergency" notices. Mr. Whittenberg stated that it would, but the emergency contact information could be excluded. Mr. Whittenberg continued by stating that temporary window signs in combination with the permanent window signs could not exceed 30 percent of the window area, except at Christmastime when 50 percent coverage will be allowed. He noted that temporary signs could only be used 3 times a year, for 30 days at a time, with approval of a Temporary Sign Permit. Commissioner Deaton inquired about canvas banners. Mr. Whittenberg stated that if they have a ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 75 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Banner Permit, this would be allowed. Commissioner Deaton inquired about painting on windows. Mr. Whittenberg stated that this would be categorized as temporary signage, and since this type of painting usually occurs during the month of December, it would fall under the 50 percent allowance. The Director of Development Services then reviewed the maintenance standards for signs, as shown on Page 6. Commissioner Shanks asked if this would include backlit signs where some of the lights have gone out. Mr. Whittenberg confirmed that this would fall within the maintenance standards. He commented that with regard to neon signs, there is a wide range of opinion on this type of sign. He stated that neon signs are regaining popularity and in many cases can be quite attractive and beneficial to the community. He indicated that neon signs are not prohibited, as long as they meet the size standards. Commissioner Deaton suggested that for businesses with both an outside sign and window signs, only one of the signs could be lit. Commissioner Roberts stated that he does not favor neon signs, but noted that the City of Pasadena has done of good job of regulating neon signs by limiting the tube diameter used, which provides some control over the illumination or intensity of the lighting. He said he agreed with Commissioner Deaton's suggestion of limiting the number of neon signs a business can have. He also commented on businesses having Christmas lights in their windows during the holiday season, which can also create a lot of added light. Mr. Whittenberg noted that some businesses do put up the clear Christmas lights and leave them up all year, which can add a certain flavor to a building while providing some light to the community. He recommended reviewing decorative lighting separately. Commissioner Deaton stated that she does like the clear Christmas lights in store windows, as long as the illumination is not too bright. Commissioner Shanks asked about controlling businesses that paint signs on vehicles that advertise their business and then park these vehicles in front of the business or on another main thoroughfare. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the City cannot control signs on the vehicles; only how long the vehicle is parked on a street. Mr. Abbe confirmed that this was correct, and that the best way to control this was by limiting the parking time. Commissioner Deaton referred to the Pasadena Zoning Ordinance for the use of neon signs, as listed on Page 16 of the Staff Report, and said that this was an interesting concept. Mr. Whittenberg stated that one of the ordinances actually prohibits clear, neon window signs, and this would be something that the City of Seal Beach could incorporate into the sign ordinance. Commissioner Deaton then referred to the Balboa Sign Overlay Program as shown at the bottom of Page 10 and asked if this were what Staff is proposing. Mr. Whittenberg confirmed that this was correct. Commissioner Deaton then confirmed that color or light intensity cannot be changed, with the exception of neon and fiber optic sign light sources. She stated that this type of lighting would not be desirable along Main Street. She then referred to Page 7 of the Staff Report under the Dana Point Zoning Ordinance and asked if monument signs within Seal Beach are to be internally illuminated. Mr. Whittenberg stated that because monument signs are usually close to the sidewalk, for safety reasons they should be internally illuminated. ZTA 05 -3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 76 Planning Commission Staff'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Mr. Whittenberg stated that he would attempt to have sign company representatives in attendance at the next meeting on Main Street signs to discuss illumination, and Staff would also prepare the draft language for the sign standards. He indicated that all business and property owners along Main Street would receive notice of the proposed changes. Commissioner Roberts asked if any of the standards are to be retroactively enforced. Mr. Whittenberg stated that this is another issue that must be discussed prior to making a recommendation to City Council." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 77 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 6 MAY 49 2005 PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION MINUTE EXCERPT ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 78 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 MAY 49 2005 PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION MINUTE EXCERPT "STUDY SESSION 6. Main Street Specific Plan Sign Standards Staff Report Mr. Whittenberg delivered the staff report. (Staff Report is on file for inspection in the Planning Department.) He provided some background information on this item noting that at the last Study Session the Commission had requested that Staff return with draft language for some issues the PC felt needed to be addressed. He referred to Attachment 1, the initial draft of the ordinance language to amend the provisions for the Main Street Specific Plan (MSSP) Area. He briefly described the MSSP area as being the area from Ocean Avenue to Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), which includes the businesses on Central Avenue between the alleyways; on the 8ffi Street side, it includes the businesses all the way over to 8t' Street, including City Hall, the Fire Station property, and the 8ffi Street parking lot. He noted that generally the sign issue is related to the businesses directly on Main Street, and is a result of concerns expressed by the Commissioners and members of the public regarding the signage installed on the new Main Street Square building. He indicated that in looking at this issue the discussion expanded to include monument signs, courtyard signs, and neon signs, etc. Mr. Whittenberg then stated that at this point Staff proposes that a section be separated from the overall City commercial sign standards that deal specifically with Main Street signs, which differ significantly from sign standards for Seal Beach Boulevard (SBB) and PCH. He briefly reviewed the previous discussion on monument and courtyard signs, and noted that other major changes would be provision of standards for: 1. Permanent window signs. 2. Neon signs 3. Illumination of signs 4. Additional review of proposed new signage -or conversion of existing signage for multi - tenant buildings on Main Street using the Minor Plan Review process with all business owners, residents, and property owners within a 100 -foot radius receiving notice of the Consent Calendar item. A Planned Sign Program is to be required of all new or conversions to multi-tenant structures of 4 or more tenants. 5. Temporary window signs. He then referred to Page 18, which presents a second set of standards for Proposed Sign Provisions with Revisions To Apply To All Signage Regulations, which presents the proposal for the calculation of sign area. He noted that on Pages 19 -20 picture examples show how this is done, with Maintenance and Administrative Removal of Signs, Legibility of Signs, Materials, and Changeable Copy addressed on Pages 22 -23. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 79 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 The Director of Development Services then introduced the lighting Consultant for Downtown Solutions (DS), Mr. Mark Brodeur, who provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Seal Beach Sign Illumination Study. (Presentation is on file for inspection in the Planning Department.) Mr. Brodeur introduced Ray Swartz, of Konsortuml, an electrical engineering firm that assisted with the illumination study, and explained that on the night of April 19, 2005, between the hours of 8:00 — 9:30 p.m. Mr. Swartz had used a luminance meter, which accurately measures the sign area by eliminating light from outside of the measurement area. He noted that neither distance from the sign nor the size of the sign would make a difference in the luminance measurement levels. He indicated that many times the perception is that a sign is bright, but many times it is the type of illumination that is used that makes the sign appear brighter than it might actually be. He stated that internally illuminated "can signs" are being prohibited in many downtown areas because they are not in keeping with an Old Town type of environment. An example of this would be the City of Carmel that allows signs with illumination from a lamp source and not a fluorescent light source. He explained that DS looked at how other cities codify sign illumination by luminances. Mr. Swartz added that DS is providing recommendations that were done by the Luminating Engineering Society of North America, which is a body of people who get together to make recommendations for things that many cities adopt and that engineers use for design. He referred to the Recommended Sign Luminances Table and Mr. Brodeur then proceeded to provide a presentation of the luminance measurements taken for various signs along Main Street, noting that higher readings resulted with the internally illuminated signs. Mr. Brodeur then reviewed the Newport Beach Zoning Ordinance, Section 20.67.025.1.3, which presents the ranges of acceptable sign luminance and the categories of measurements limits for an acceptable ambient light environment within that city. He then followed with a comparison of the luminance readings in Seal Beach with the ambient light environment standards for Newport Beach. He commented that he was surprised to find how low the luminance for Seal Beach Main Street signs was relative to the Newport Beach Ordinance, which reflects the low category readings to fall between 10 -45 candelas /square foot. He noted that these types of low luminance signs would be allowed within residential areas of Newport Beach. He then indicated that the highest reading in Seal Beach was for the Corner Drug Store, which reflected a maximum candelas /square foot reading of 50.52. Mr. Brodeur stated that he was not certain that the issue was brightness or luminance, but rather the type of signage and illumination and whether it appears to have "hot spots" on it, or it may be that there is a proliferation of signs on a building. Mr. Whittenberg stated that Mr. Brodeur's presentation had helped Staff get a better feel for the definition of luminance levels and for the signage currently on Main Street. He said that it also helped in preparing the proposed language for the section of the ordinance on sign illumination, as it appears on Pages 15 -16 of the Staff Report. He reviewed the proposed standards and noted that anything under consideration for a future Zone Text Amendment (ZTA) should not be for the purpose of imposing these new standards on existing business signs, but would apply only when there is a change in ownership and the new owner applies for a new sign. He indicated that what the PC must agree on is whether it wants to allow only externally illuminated signs, like the signs at Walt's Wharf, Hennessey's, and O'Malley's, and whether signs without channel letters or channel logos should be externally illuminated. He stated that based upon the analysis provided for illumination levels, and looking at the Newport Beach and Huntington Beach illumination ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 80 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 standards, Staff suggests that the PC establish a standard of between 5 and 55 candelas/square foot, excluding those properties that front PCH. He noted that this is only slightly brighter than the brightest sign currently on Main Street. Mr. Whittenberg then explained that Staff is also recommending that a luminance analysis of all installed neon signs must be completed by a licensed engineer and submitted to Staff to ensure that the sign does meet the standards. He stated that if the PC wishes to have a final study session, Staff would provide notice of this to all Main Street business operators and property owners, or if the- PC wishes to direct Staff to proceed with preparation of the Zone Text Amendment (ZTA), this can be done and formal notice will be provided to all Main Street business operators and property owners and also to all residents within 300 feet of the Main Street area. Commissioner Questions Commissioner Shanks questioned the use of the term "shopping center" as shown on Page 11, Item 4 of the Staff Report. Mr. - Whittenberg stated that a property with 4 or more tenants would be categorized as a "shopping center." Commissioner Deaton asked if public input could be taken during a Study Session. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the PC could allow this. Commissioner Roberts stated that there is a delicate balance between the varieties of intensities in lighting along Main Street. He noted that the quantitative data does show that there is a good mixture of lighting. He asked if the consultants could provide suggestions for language to attempt to solicit the cooperation of businesses in using a variety of candela levels for lighting on signs. Mr. Brodeur stated that this is the first time a City has asked this question. He said that most cities that limit neon lighting have already done a lot of the things that are proposed in the Staff Report. He noted that if the PC were to allow only externally illuminated signs, like the City of Carmel, then it wouldn't have to be concerned about candelas/square foot. He stated that experience has shown him that as soon as someone knows what the limits are, they will usually go right to that limit. He indicated that by implementing some of the recommendations made by Staff, this would probably result in all signs safely falling below 25 candelas/square foot and helping preserve the Old Town atmosphere. Commissioner Shanks noted that the analysis has shown that all of the neon signs in Old Town are very mild. He asked if this could be maintained or the intensity of the neon lights lowered. He commented that he enjoys the variety that the existing neon provides, but brighter neon would not be good. Mr: Brodeur stated that the great thing about luminance is that it does give you a true measurement of how bright something is regardless of the size or color. He said that that he was very surprised to find that all of the neon signage in Old Town measured in at very low levels. He noted that neon could be dimmed very inexpensively to help lower its intensity. Commissioner Roberts noted that Staff is recommending %2 -inch diameter tubing for neon, and asked if this is the dimension of most of the neon signs in Old Town. Mr. Brodeur stated that this is a pretty standard size. Mr. Swartz interjected that some cities will prohibit neon altogether and ZTA 05 -3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 81 Planning Commission Stafj`'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 others will limit the percentage of the overall sign package that can be neon. Mr. Brodeur stated that many signs will use neon as an indirect source, where the neon tube cannot be seen. Commissioner Roberts noted that the light bulbs on the Hennessey's sign appear to be facing the street rather than facing and illuminating the sign. Mr. Brodeur explained that the sign has a piece of plexiglass, so what you see is a reflection of the lights that are actually facing towards the building. Commissioner Deaton stated that it appears that the biggest problem is that what the eyes see and the measurements taken don't seem to line up. Mr. Brodeur stated that this is why the measurements were taken from across the street, as sometimes when you are up close to a sign the brightness can be misleading. He noted that when seen in context with the other signs around it, the contrast in the brightness could be seen. Commissioner Deaton noted that from Walt's Wharf, Main Street Square looks like Las Vegas, yet none of the luminance readings would indicate that the signs are this bright. She said that she would be opposed to making the maximum limit 55 candelas /square foot. She stated that comments from the community and from City Council favor the use of externally illuminated signs. Mr. Brodeur stated that he would highly recommend setting some sort of upper limit that people could go to, because if there is nothing specific, it will be difficult to enforce. Commissioner Deaton stated that the City could go to all externally lit signs. Mr. Brodeur stated that this may help, but brightness on externally lit signs is also a result of how the sign is designed. Commissioner Shanks stated that he is an optometrist and once the eye adapts to the darkness lights can appear to be much brighter. He noted that there is a huge human adaptability to what appears to be bright or not bright, and the lower measurements would make it look like some of the signs would not be very clear, but if it has been dark for half an hour, the chances are people could read these signs very well. Mr. Brodeur stated that this is another reason why cities have a "level of competition" for signs, and if the levels are lowered for everyone, no sign stands out as being brighter than the other. Public Comments Chairperson Ladner opened for the public comment period. David Rosenman stated that although this was a nice technical study, if Mr. Brodeur had used Laguna Beach instead of Newport Beach, the comparisons about how bright or dark things were would have been totally different. He noted that he used to live in Laguna Beach and they have a Carmel type ordinance prohibiting plastic signs, and all lighting is external, which gives the town a very different feel. He said that this would be another option. He referred to the planning sessions for the Main Street Specific Plan (MSSP) and noted that there were approximately six different vendors who presented their concepts, but it was Mr. Dave Zucker from San Diego who encouraged cleaning up Main Street a little, but basically leaving it as is, which the community agreed with. The MSSP reflects the sense of City Council, the PC, at that time, and of the community. He said that he has heard comments from the community saying that although they appreciate the problem of amortizing, looking ahead 5 -7 years, at which point many of the signs ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 82 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 would be due for replacement anyway, it might be worthwhile to look at a phase -in of the new and phase -out of older signs. He encouraged visiting Laguna Beach to see what they have done. There being no one else wishing to speak, Chairperson Ladner closed the public comment period. Commissioner Comments Commissioner Deaton referred to Page 12, Item c. of the Staff Report and stated that allowing each business in a multi -tenant building to have internally lit signs creates a huge impact on the environment. She said that although every business needs signage, the PC must find a way to get away from such an impact. She then referred to Page 15 and stated that although she was not in favor of neon, it does provide a nice relief from everything else, but what sold her on the neon is learning of its adjustability. She suggested allowing the neon, but making sure that a low rating is assigned to it so that it stays soft and warm, not garish like the channel letters. She favors getting rid of the channel letters and the internally illuminated can signs, as this opens the area up for creativity and a little bit of an eclectic feel, but does away with the Vegas look that Main Street Square has. Mr. Whittenberg stated that the 25 square foot minimum is an existing provision of the Code, and would apply to all businesses. He said the way to address the concerns regarding multi - tenant buildings is through the MPR process or a Planned Sign Program (PSP) or by additional review by the PC. Commissioner Deaton stated that this is all right because businesses do need signage, but although the MSSP was designed to help keep the Old Town feel, the sign ordinances were not specific enough. She said that she favors going to exterior lighting for signs only on Main Street, with a provision for the neon as long as it calibrated to the number determined by the PC. Mr. Whittenberg confirmed that what he is hearing is that for new signs on Main Street the PC prefers the external illumination or neon. He suggested a maximum level of neon lighting similar to Cafe Lafayette and Alternative Surf. Mr. Whittenberg polled the Commissioners to see if they were in agreement. There being no objections or added comments, the Director of Development Services stated that Staff would return with the final ordinance language with maximum illumination levels of about 25 candelas for both types of signs and the prohibition of channel letters. He noted that language related to reflectivity of the external signs would also be included to prevent the use of plexiglass to reflect the lighting. Commissioner Deaton inquired about temporary signs that are left up permanently. Mr. Whittenberg stated that there has been nothing regulating these types of signs. He referred to Page 14 where the proposed standards for permanent window signs are listed and to Page 17 for the proposed standards for temporary window signs. Commissioner Deaton asked that a prohibition of illuminated window signs be added. Commissioner Roberts asked about the stringed lights around windows. Commissioner Deaton stated that this had previously been discussed as being permissible during the holidays. She noted that the PC had discussed leaving the stringed lights up year round if they were clear lights. Mr. Whittenberg stated that this could be added. Commissioner Deaton asked if the stringed lights were used as an architectural element, would this take away from the allowed signage. Mr. Abbe interjected that the PC had previously determined that this would count toward the total amount of signage permitted. He referred to Item h(5) on Page 15. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 83 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Commissioner Roberts asked if it were possible to install a dimmer on a neon sign. Mr. Brodeur stated that this is very easy to do. Commissioner Roberts asked if this would extend or diminish the life of the neon tube. Mr. Brodeur stated that it would extend it and does save energy as well. Commissioner Roberts stated that he would like to consider limiting the amount of neon allowed on a business frontage. Commissioner Deaton asked if an externally lit sign uses all of the square footage allowed could it then be outlined with neon. Mr. Whittenberg stated that this would not be permissible. Mr. Abbe added that when re- drafting the sign measurement standards the size and spacing between lettering was considered, but the width of neon tubes was not. Commissioner Roberts stated that in looking at the sign presentation he is not certain that softness and lumens is the same thing. He said it is less bright, but the softness of the colors used would also determine the brightness. Commissioner Deaton stated that if the lumens are kept lower, this should help alleviate the perception of brightness. Mr. Whittenberg added that he has never seen a sign ordinance that regulates the colors permissible in signage. He stated that eliminating the channel letters and can signs would probably address 80 percent of the issues related to sign brightness and glare. He said that Staff has never had complaints about the signs at Cafd Lafayette or Bogart's. Commissioner Deaton stated that she believes people are confused about the difference between neon and channel letters, as she was. She said that after the presentation tonight and her participation in the study sessions, she has become more aware of the differences. Commissioner Roberts stated that neon for neon's sake does not take us out of the 1930's, but there is certain neon that puts us into the 21St century, and differentiating between the two is an issue. Mr. Whittenberg stated that Staff could develop a standard that limits the overall amount of neon used to a certain percentage on a particular block face. Commissioner Deaton questioned whether this might create issues of prejudice, and stated that if it appears easier to eliminate all internally lit neon and can signs and channel letters, this would be fine. Mr. Abbe referred to the Charo Chicken sign and asked if the Commission had any preference regarding how close together the neon tubes should be. Mr. Brodeur suggested limiting neon to a single strand of tubing per letter. He noted that in working with cities on neon sign ordinances, the PC should proceed cautiously. He said that experience has shown him that if sign standards require all externally illuminated signs, then the City will begin to see more neon signs on Main Street than what currently exists. He stated that when cities have considered allowing neon with externally illuminated signs, they reduce the size of the allowable sign in neon versus the incandescent sign. He noted that many signs will have a reflective background as shown in the Alternative Surf signage to make the sign stand out as opposed to a dark, non- reflective background as shown on the Bogart's sign. He commented that if the community ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 84 Planning Commission StafJ`'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 wishes to maintain the Old Town flavor, the PC should promote incandescent, external lighting, and use neon as an accent rather than seeing a proliferation of it. He noted that limiting the size of neon signs could do this. Commissioner Roberts stated that he was in agreement with Mr. Brodeur's suggestions. Mr. Abbe asked if the non - reflective background on the Bogart's sign is what contributed to the 7.72 candelas /square foot reading. Mr. Brodeur stated that this is probably related more to sign uniformity and the neon on this sign is dimmer than that used at other locations. Commissioner Sharp stated that the discussion was becoming redundant and suggested that another study session be scheduled to continue this discussion. Mr. Whittenberg stated that Staff would return at a future study session with more revised ordinance language. Commissioner Deaton stated that she would like to meet with the merchants and residents together to prevent this becoming a factious discussion. Mr. Whittenberg noted that Staff would provide notice to both merchants and residents at the same time." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 85 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 7 SEPTEMBER 21, 2005 PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION MINUTE EXCERPT ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 86 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 SEPTEMBER 21, 2005 PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION MINUTE EXCERPT "STUDY SESSION 8. Sign Requirements for Main Street Specific Plan Area Chairperson Shanks commended Staff for the outstanding work done on the Staff Report. He stated that the report is so complete that he has no questions to add. Commissioner Roberts was in agreement. He said all issues were adequately addressed. Commissioner O'Malley stated that the report is very comprehensive and he would concur with the recommendation of Staff. Commissioner Deaton asked if the Main Street merchants were aware of what the PC is doing. Mr. Whittenberg stated that unless they have been watching the meetings, no notice has been given. He asked if the PC would prefer a noticed Study Session or if the public hearing should be noticed. Commissioner Deaton stated that notice of the public hearing would be adequate. Mr. Whittenberg indicated that notice would be published in the newspaper and provided by mail to all property owners and business occupants along Main Street. Commissioner Roberts asked if the proposed text would be included in the public notice. Mr. Whittenberg noted that a reduced size text could be used to accommodate this. MOTION by Deaton; SECOND by Roberts to proceed with the public hearing notice for a proposed Zone Text Amendment for the Main Street Specific Plan. MOTION CARRIED: 4 — 0 —1 AYES: Shanks, Deaton, O'Malley, and Roberts NOES: None ABSENT: Ladner" ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 87 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 8 "MAIN STREET SIGN PROVISIONS - ORDINANCE PROVISIONS FROM OTHER JURISDICTIONS" ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 88 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 MAIN STREET SIGN PROVISIONS - ORDINANCE PROVISIONS FROM OTHER JURISDICTIONS City of Seal Beach Concern: ❑ Development of a standard for free- standing signs for businesses not built out to the sidewalk. ❑ Minimum distance from front property line to the building to qualify for such a sign; ❑ Determination of appropriate height and size of such signs ❑ Newport Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 20.67.030.C.1): ❑ Ground and Pole Signs permitted only on building sites with a minimum 50 -foot frontage. ❑ Area not to exceed 200 square feet; height not.to exceed 25 feet. ❑ Balboa Sign Overlay Program — Newport Beach ❑ 1 per parcel having over 100 feet of frontage; ❑ 50 square feet maximum sign area plus 10 bonus square feet for signs having an opaque background and internal illumination for items of information only; 7 -foot maximum sign height plus 1 bonus foot in height for same features. ❑ Central Balboa (Specific Plan District # 8) - Newport Beach: ❑ All signs shall comply with the provisions of the Balboa Sign Overlay adopted by Ordinance 2000 -22 on November 14, 2000. ❑ Santa Ana Heights (Specific Plan District # 7) - Newport Beach: ❑ One business or identification monument sign, including the foundation, not exceeding 50 square feet in area or four feet in height may be permitted on each additional street frontage that is in excess of 99 feet in length. ❑ Larger business or identification monument signs may be permitted subject to use permit approval by the Planning Commission per Chapter 20.91. ❑ Huntington Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 233.06.A.2): ❑ 1 per parcel having less than 400 feet of street frontage; ❑ 1 square foot of sign per for each 2 feet of primary business frontage, not to exceed 150 square feet maximum sign area; 8 -foot maximum sign height. ❑ Signs shall be located in a landscape planter a minimum of 2 feet wider than the sign itself. Square poles or other architectural treatment shall be required, except if ZTA 05 -3.Sip Standards.PC Staff Report 89 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 a sign is 8 feet or less in height, it shall be of a monument type, with a minimum 2 foot base. Placement shall conform with Diagram A. ❑ Huntington Beach Design Guidelines, Chapter 5 — Downtown/Main Street Commercial: ❑ 1 per site provided the structure on the site is setback a minimum of 20 feet and that the site has a minimum of 100 feet of frontage. ❑ Maximum sign area is 15 square feet or 40 square feet for wooden sandblasted signs. ❑ Maximum height — 6 feet and be a monument type sign. ❑ Located in a landscaped planter with no portion of the sign extending beyond the perimeter of the planter. ❑ Pasadena Zoning Ordinance (Section 17.48. 090 — Sign Standards by Zoning District): ❑ Commercial Downtown Zone: ❑ 1 monument sign for each 200 feet of street frontage; ❑ 0.5 square feet of sign area per foot of property frontage, 40 square feet maximum; ❑ 8 -foot maximum height. ❑ Setback minimum 5 feet from a street property line, 5 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway. ❑ Landscaping with automatic sprinklers shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign or 75 square feet, whichever is greater. ❑ Shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right -of -way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area. ❑ Dana Point Zoning Ordinance (Section 9.37.130 — Location and Height): 1. The maximum height of permanent detached signs is 6 feet. The Community Development Director has the discretion to grant up to a 25% increase in allowable height; if the Director finds the sign design to be extraordinarily creative and significantly contributing to the character of Dana Point and that the site characteristics warrant the additional height. ❑ Novato Zoning Ordinance (Section 19.32.070.B — Freestanding Signs): 1. Sign height shall not exceed 6 feet. 2. The sign shall not project over public property, vehicular easements, or rights -of- ways. Signs shall not obstruct traffic safety sight areas, as determined by the director. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 90 Planning Commission Stafj`'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ San Diego Municipal Code (Section 142.1220.c — Permitted Primary Signs): 1. Permitted in lieu of projecting signs. The area is based on street wall, public right - of -way width, and street speed limit, with a maximum display area limitation. 2. Example from Table 142 -12H: ❑ Public right -of -way less than 60 feet; speed limit 25 -30 MPH — 50 square feet. ❑ Public right -of -way more than 60 feet; speed limit 15 -20 MPH — 50 square feet. ❑ Public right -of -way more than 60 feet; speed limit 25 -30 MPH — 100 square feet. ❑ Maximum height either 8 or 15 feet, depending on sign category designation (different areas within the City). ❑ San Diego Municipal Code (Section 142.1290.d.3 — La Jolla Commercial and Industrial Sign Control District — On Premise Sign Regulations — Freestanding Ground Signs): 1. Where the face of the building sets back from the property line more than 20 feet, one single -faced or double -faced freestanding ground sign is permitted, in addition to those on the building, in accordance with the following: ❑ No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 20 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. In the Coastal Overlay Zone, however, no part of the sign shall exceed 8 feet in height. ❑ The total area of the signs shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of street frontage or 40 square feet, whichever is smaller. ❑ Long Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 21.44.110 Freestanding/monument Signs): ❑ Any individual business or a shopping center may display one freestanding sign on a property. For each length of street frontage in excess of three hundred feet (300'), a business or group of businesses may display one additional freestanding sign for each additional three hundred feet (300'), or portion thereof, of street frontage abutting the developed portion of the property occupied by the businesses. ❑ Area: The permitted area of freestanding signs shall be as provided in Table 44 -3. No sign shall be permitted to exceed the maximum area indicated, regardless of street frontage. ❑ Height. The maximum permitted height of a freestanding sign shall not exceed the limits set forth in Table 44 -3. The height of a freestanding sign is measured from grade to the highest point of the sign, except that the height of the freeway - oriented freestanding signs, where the freeway elevation is greater than the base of the sign, may be measured from the grade of the freeway lane nearest the sign not including on and off ramps to the highest point of the sign, as illustrated in Figure 44 -1. ❑ Copy. Sign copy on each face of a freestanding sign shall be limited to the identification of a business and a total of two (2) principal products or services sold on the premises. A freestanding sign that identifies a group of businesses or ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 91 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 shopping center may include only the name of the business area or the name of the principal tenant of the business area on any one freestanding sign. However, automobile service stations may also include on each freestanding sign face the price of fuel being sold on the premises. Fuel price displays may contain fifteen (15) square feet of sign area per street frontage in addition to that otherwise permitted. ❑ Location. ❑ No freestanding sign shall be located closer to any interior side property line than twenty -five feet (25'). Lots smaller than seventy -five feet (75') wide shall place a freestanding sign no closer to any interior side property line than one- third (1/3) the width of the property measured at the street frontage, as indicated in Figure 44 -2. Lots adjoining freeway or railroad rights -of -way may locate a freestanding sign on the property line adjoining such right -of -way. ❑ Where more than one freestanding sign is used for one business or group of businesses, the minimum distance between two (2) freestanding signs shall be one hundred feet (100'). ❑ Projection. ❑ No freestanding sign shall overhang the property line adjoining a public right - of -way unless approval has been granted by the Department of Public Works. ❑ The vertical clearance from grade to the lowest point of the sign is eight feet (8') for pedestrian use and fourteen feet (14') for vehicular use. ❑ Supporting Device. Any angle iron or secondary support shall be enclosed in a form constructed of impermeable material, such that the angle iron or secondary support is not visible. City of Long Beach Zoning Ordinance Table 44 -3 Permitted Dimensions of Freestanding Signs Type of Freestanding Permitted Area Maximum Area 1 Maximum Sign (sq. ft.) (a) (sq. ft.) I Height (feet) iIFreeway oriented 3/L.F. 300 - 40 Regional corridor 2/L.F. 150 I 25 Major arterial frontage 2/L.F. 150 25 Minor arterial, residential, 2/L.F. 100 25 local, collector street I frontage l/L.F. ; 100 ! 8 F nument ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 92 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 City of Long Beach Zoning Ordinance Table 44 -3 (Continued) Permitted Dimensions of Freestanding Signs Type of Freestanding Permitted Area Maximum Area Maximum Sign (sq. ft.) (a) (sq. ft.) i Height (feet) i Automobile service station 15 (b) i 15 (b) 12 (a) Square feet of sign area permitted per linear foot of frontage along the abutting, street. 1 i(b) In addition to the permitted freestanding sign, a price sign is also permitted. City of Seal Beach Concern: ❑ Development of standards for the use and intensity of lighting for signs, both building and interior, window signs. ❑ Newport Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 20.67.025.I.3 — Illuminated Signs): 1. Unless otherwise prohibited by this chapter, signs may be illuminated provided such illumination does not interfere with the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties or create any public safety hazards. Exterior light sources shall be shielded from view and directed away from adjacent properties. The Planning Director may order the dimming of any illumination found to be excessively bright, based on the following guidelines: ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 93 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 Recommended Sign Lumininances Range of Sign Luminance Ambient Light Environment (candelas /square foot) LOW — Areas with no or little exterior 10 to 45 lighting, other than street lighting. Such areas include most residential areas, Newport Bay and the Pacific Ocean. MEDIUM — Areas where signs are 45 to 70 relatively isolated or areas adjacent to "low" ambient light areas. HIGH — Central business districts, 70 to 100 highly lighted streets or parking areas. VERY HIGH — High rise signs and 100 to 140 signs in areas of high sign competition. ❑ Balboa Sign Overlay Program — Newport Beach ❑ No specific illumination standard. ❑ If a 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 building face as well. Indirect lighting emphasizes the continuity of the structure's surface and signs become an integral part of the fagade. ❑ 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 mixed -use or residential areas and any public right -of -way. Sign should be lighted only to the minimum level required for nighttime readability. ❑ Individually illuminated letters, either internally illuminated or back - lighted solid letters (reverse channel), are a preferred alternative to internally illuminated plastic cabinet signs. Signs comprised of individual letters mounted directly on a structure can often use a distinctive element of the structure's fagade as a backdrop, thereby providing a better integration with the structure. ❑ The most appropriate type of sign illumination on the Peninsula is indirect lighting. Again, indirect lighting helps the sign appear as an integral part of the fagade, not something that was added later. Indirect lighting is generally more appropriate for historic districts and smaller single buildings. In addition, indirect lighting produces a more intimate ambiance on the street. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 94 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ Huntington Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 233.14.0 — Electronic Readerboards): 1. The maximum night time intensity and illuminance shall conform to the following: MAXIMUM NIGHT -TIME INTENSITY Height from 5 10 20 30 50 70 85 Ground (in feet) Maximum 125 130 145 170 250 370 490 Intensity (x 1000 lumens) MAXIlVI[JM NIGHT -TIME ILLUMINANCE Land Use at Receptor Site Residential Commercial Other Maximum Illuminance (foot - candles) 0.3 2.0 1.0 The maximum night time illuminance shall be measured at the receptor site, at ground level, by a direct reading, portable light meter. Measurements shall not be made within one hour after sunset or before sunrise. Illuminance shall be determined by the difference between a reading taken with the sign on and another reading taken within three (3) minutes with the sign off. An illuminance chart shall be prepared by a licensed engineer and submitted to the Director for approval prior to installation. Conformance with this ordinance shall be verified by actual measurements made, as specified herein, after installation. The method of measurement and results shall be subject to approval of the Director. ❑ Huntington Beach Design Guidelines, Chapter 5 — Downtown/Main Street Commercial: 1. Lighting should create a festive atmosphere and encourage nighttime use by pedestrians. 2. There are two methods of illuminating signs: internal with the light source inside the sign and external with an outside light directed at the sign. 3. Internal illumination is permitted on channel letters only. 4. Signs without channel letters must be illuminated externally. 5. Signs must be lighted with continuous light sources. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 95 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ Pasadena Zoning Ordinance (Section 17.40.080 — Outdoor Lighting): 1. Exterior lighting on private property shall comply with the following requirements. Parking lot lighting shall comply with Section 17.46.222 (outdoor Parking Area Lighting). ❑ Lighting shall be energy efficient and shielded. Lighting shall be energy efficient, and shielded or recessed so that direct glare and reflections are confined to the maximum extent feasible within the boundaries of the site, and shall be directed downward and away from adjoining properties and public rights -of way. No lighting on private property shall produce an illumination level greater than one footcandle on any property within a residential zoning district except on the site of the light source. ❑ Dana Point Zoning Ordinance (Section 9.37.140.f and k): 1. Signs may be externally illuminated. Signs, with the exception of monument signs, may be internally illuminated. Letter and logos may be internally lit but the sign background shall be opaque where only the portion of the sign that is illuminated is the actual letterings and/or a registered trademark or logo. Monument signs are permitted to be externally illuminated only. Illumination shall be considered excessive when it prevents the normal perception of buildings or structures beyond or in the vicinity of the sign or when it is disruptive to residential zones or any public or private right -of -way. 2. Light sources shall utilize energy - efficient fixtures to the greatest extent possible. ❑ Novato Zoning Ordinance (Section 19.32.050.F — Illumination of Signs): 1. The artificial illumination of signs, either from an internal or external source, shall be designed to minimize light and glare on surrounding rights -of -way and properties. ❑ External light sources shall be directed and shielded to limit direct illumination on any object other than the sign. ❑ The light from an illuminated sign shall not be of an intensity or brightness that will interfere with the reasonable enjoyment of residential properties. In areas with low ambient nighttime illumination levels (e.g., residential neighborhoods or business districts with little or no illuminated signage) applicants shall be encouraged to use light, illuminated copy against dark or opaque backgrounds. ❑ Reflective -type bulbs and incandescent lamps that exceed 15 watts shall not be used on the exterior surface of signs so as to expose the face of the bulb or lamp to a public right -of -way or adjacent property. ❑ Light sources shall utilize energy efficient fixtures to the greatest extent possible. ❑ Novato Downtown Specific Plan (Section 11.8 — Lighting): 1. Specific lighting guidelines are listed below: ❑ In designated commercial districts, accent lighting for buildings and landscaping shall be designed to enhance the night time atmosphere. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 96 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ Parking and walkway areas shall be illuminated by 1 foot candle minimum lighting to avoid dark spots and excessive dark/light ratios. ❑ Only low level indirect lighting shall be used adjacent to residential properties. The level of lighting and location of light source shall not result in glare toward residential areas. ❑ The approved lighting standard with modular add -on options for hanging flower baskets and public signage is VISCO #VI- C- C3- S/l2' -0 ", 100 WHPS. ❑ Any light source over 10 feet high shall incorporate a cut -off shield to prevent the light source from being directly visible from off site areas. ❑ Long Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 21.44.080.F Unlawful Illumination): ❑ No sign illumination system shall contain or use any beacon, spot, or stroboscopic light, or reflector which is visible from any public right -of -way or adjacent property. Signs in amusement parks are exempt from this regulation. ❑ Generally, illuminated signs shall not be allowed to change color or light intensity. The exception being neon and/or fiber optic sign light sources, which are permitted to gradually change color. Light intensity for any illuminated sign shall not be allowed to change. Signs in amusement parks are exempt from this regulation. ❑ No floodlight shall be used which is not hooded or shielded so that the light source is not visible from any public right -of -way or adjacent property. City of Seal Beach Concern: ❑ Development of standards to require a "Planned Sign Program" to be approved for multi - tenant properties or single -use properties of a certain minimum street frontage or square footage threshold. ❑ Balboa Sign Overlay Program — Newport Beach: ❑ Whenever three or more separate tenant spaces are created on the same parcel; ❑ Whenever five or more non - exempt signs are requested for a new or existing development. ❑ Santa Ana Heights (Specific Plan District # 7) - Newport Beach: ❑ Multiple building sites that share a common access may develop a sign program subject to approval of a sign exception permit by the Planning Commission per Section 20.67.045. ❑ Huntington Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 233.04B): ❑ A site with five or more non - residential businesses or uses; ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 97 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ Commercial properties with 1,300 feet or more on one street frontage requesting more freestanding signs than allowed pursuant to Section 233.06. ❑ Wall signs for second floor businesses with exterior access. ❑ Pasadena Zoning Ordinance (Section 17.48.060 — Master Sign Plan): ❑ Whenever six or more separate nonresidential tenant spaces are created on the same parcel; ❑ Whenever six or more permanent-non-exempt signs are proposed for a single use; and ❑ Whenever the Director determines that a Master Sign Plan is needed because of special project characteristics (e.g., the size of the proposed signs, limited site visibility, a business within a business, the location of the site relative to major transportation routes, etc.) or when unique, creatively designed signs are being proposed and certain aspects of the sign's design (e.g., animation) might not otherwise be allowed. ❑ Dana Point Zoning Ordinance (Section 9.37.070 — Sign Programs): ❑ For a new nonresidential project with four or more tenants; ❑ For major rehabilitation work on an existing nonresidential project with 4 or more tenants, that involves exterior remodeling, and/or application requests to modify 50 percent or more of the existing signs on the site within a one year period. For the purposes of this division, major rehabilitation means adding more than 50 percent to the gross floor area of the building/buildings, or exterior redesign of more than 50 percent of the length of any fagade within_ the project. ❑ Novato Zoning Ordinance (Section 19.32.030 — Master Sign Plan): ❑ For any new or upgrading center with two or more tenants on a site; ❑ For any new or upgrading single enterprise which proposes 3 or more signs on a site; and ❑ For any sign proposal deemed necessary by the Director of Community Development and in the interest of the public health, safety and general welfare ❑ Long Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 21.44.035.B —Sign Program): ❑ A sign program is defined as any sign application submittal for five (5) or more new signs (not including exempt or temporary signs) intended to be placed on a new or existing development. To qualify as a sign program, all signs on the property (existing and new) must be designed in such a manner so as to be internally consistent, coordinated, and whole within themselves and to bolster the architectural theme of the subject property. A waiver from the sign development standards may be granted for a sign program pursuant to the procedures established in Division V of Chapter 21.25 - Specific Procedures. However, prohibited signs, listed in Section 21.44.080, shall not be approved through this process. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 98 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 City of Seal Beach Concern: ❑J Development of regulations on the nature, type and extent of interior, window signs. ❑ Balboa Sign Overlay Program — Newport Beach ❑ Permanent window signs not to exceed 20% of the area of each window; ❑ Limited to individual letters placed on the interior surface of the window and intended to be viewed from the outside. White, black or gold leaf paint are the recommended colors. Glass - mounted graphic logos may be applied by silk screening or pre- spaced vinyl die -cut forms. ❑ The text or sign copy of a window sign should be limited to the business name and brief messages identifying the type of product or service (e.g., "maternity wear" or "surf accessories ") or pertinent information (e.g., "reservations required). ❑ Huntington Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 233.08.11 — Exempt Signs): 1. Signs within a building not visible from a public street and window signs not exceeding 20 percent of the visible area of a window (50% during December). No window sign shall be displayed above the second story. ❑ Huntington Beach Design Guidelines, Chapter 5 — Downtown/Main Street Commercial: 1. 1 window sign allowed per business; maximum sign area of 12 square feet. 2. Maximum 15% of window area utilized for window sign. 3. Sign copy limited to business name, address and phone number. 4. Letters may be vinyl or painted. ❑ Pasadena Zoning Ordinance (Section 17.48.110.I — Window signs, permanent and temporary): 1. Signs shall be allowed only on windows located on the ground floor and second story of a building frontage. 2. Signs shall be permanently painted on the inside of windows and doors except for allowed temporary signs. 3. Signs within three feet of a storefront window shall be counted as a window sign. 4. Window signs shall be allowed in addition to the aggregate sign area allowed for wall and projecting signs. 5. Combinations of permanent and temporary window signs shall not cover more than 25 percent of any window. (Section 17.48.120.B — Standards for Temporary Signs) 6. Temporary Signs (Section 17.48.120.0 — Standards for Temporary Signs) ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 99 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ Promotional Signs — one sign per window; 25% of window area; 3 times per calendar year, 30 days for each period; Temporary Sign Permit approval required. ❑ Event Sign — no restriction on umber of signs; 4.5 square feet maximum size; removed 10 days after the event. ❑ Dana Point Zoning Ordinance (Section 9.37.150.d): 1. 1 sign allowed for each street frontage, parking lot frontage, or interior courtyard frontage. 2. 1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage on a public right -of -way, parking lot, or interior courtyard. ❑ Novato Zoning Ordinance (Section 19.32.070.G — Window Signs): 1. * The following standards shall apply to window signs in all zoning districts where allowed: 1. Maximum Sign Area. Permanent and temporary window signs shall not occupy more than 20 percent of the total window area. 2. Permanent Window Signs. A. Signs shall only be allowed on windows located on the ground level and second story of a building frontage. B. Signage shall consist of individual letters, logos, or symbols applied to the glass surface; however, neon signs with transparent backgrounds may be hung inside the window glass line. 3. Temporary Window Signs. A. May be displayed inside a window for a maximum of 10 days. B. Shall be located within the ground -floor windows of the structure. ❑ San Diego Municipal Code (Section 142.1250.a — Permanent Secondary Signs): 1. Permanent window signs shall be permanently affixed to the exterior window. 2. Not to exceed 30 percent of the window area. Letters may not be greater than 6 inches in average height, and logos may not exceed 16 inches in any dimension. ❑ San Diego Municipal Code (Section 142.1255.c — Temporary Secondary Signs): 1. Signs may be painted on the interior of a window, or constructed of cloth or paper and attached to the interior of a window or interior building wall. 2. Signs may not be attached or affixed in any manner to the exterior surface of any window or building. 3. Not to exceed 30 percent of the window area. Letters may not be greater than 6 inches in average height, and logos may not exceed 16 inches in any dimension. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 100 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ Long Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 21.44.070 — Exempt Signs): City of Seal Beach Concern: ❑ Development of maintenance standards for signs. ❑ Newport Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 20.67.025G): 1. All signs, together with all of their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be properly maintained with respect to appearance, structural and electrical features. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times. All signs shall be subject to maintenance provisions as follows: 1. Any location where business goods are no longer sold or produced or where services are no longer provided shall have 90 days to remove any remaining or derelict signs following notification by the City and at the expense of said property. Where the written notification has been given by the City and compliance has not been met within the required 90 day period, the City may cause the removal of such signs with the cost for such removal to be attached to the property. 2. All signs shall be refinished to remove rust or other corrosion due to the elements and any cracked or broken faces and malfunctioning lamps shall be replaced within 90 days following notification to the City. ❑ Balboa Sign Overlay Program — Newport Beach ❑ Signs and supporting hardware, including temporary signs and time /temperature signs shall be structurally safe, clean, free of visible defects, and functioning ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 101 2. Interior signs Area of sign must ! No Must be located between be less than 25% maximum 1 foot to 6 feet to the of total area of i limit interior of any window window through i ''` from which sign is visible which it is i -Sign may not flash, exhibited rotate or exhibit any other prohibited characteristics 6. Window signs Total of all signs No Must be placed in such a displayed in any ! maximum j manner so as to not one window may limit obstruct visibility into not cover more i j business than 10% of total i window area City of Seal Beach Concern: ❑ Development of maintenance standards for signs. ❑ Newport Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 20.67.025G): 1. All signs, together with all of their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be properly maintained with respect to appearance, structural and electrical features. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times. All signs shall be subject to maintenance provisions as follows: 1. Any location where business goods are no longer sold or produced or where services are no longer provided shall have 90 days to remove any remaining or derelict signs following notification by the City and at the expense of said property. Where the written notification has been given by the City and compliance has not been met within the required 90 day period, the City may cause the removal of such signs with the cost for such removal to be attached to the property. 2. All signs shall be refinished to remove rust or other corrosion due to the elements and any cracked or broken faces and malfunctioning lamps shall be replaced within 90 days following notification to the City. ❑ Balboa Sign Overlay Program — Newport Beach ❑ Signs and supporting hardware, including temporary signs and time /temperature signs shall be structurally safe, clean, free of visible defects, and functioning ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 101 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 properly at all times. Repairs to signs shall be equal to or better in quality of materials and design than the original sign. ❑ Pasadena Zoning Ordinance (Section 17.48.100.E — Maintenance, alteration and removal): 1. All signs and sign structures including those otherwise specifically exempt from the provisions of this Chapter, including all parts, portions, and materials, shall be maintained in good repair, and structurally sound. The display surface of all signs shall be kept clean, neatly painted, and free from rust and corrosion. Any cracks, broken surfaces, malfunctioning lights, missing sign copy, or other unmaintained or damaged portion of a sign shall be repaired or replaced within 30 calendar days following notification by the City. Noncompliance with the notification shall constitute a public nuisance. 2. When a sign is replaced or removed, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that supported the sign shall also be removed. Affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the adjacent portion of the structure. ❑ Dana Point Zoning Ordinance (Section 9.37.150.d): 1. All signs shall be maintained in good repair and functioning properly to the satisfaction of the Director of Community Development. Signs shall be free from all defects including but not limited to cracking, peeling, and rusting. Signs that are not properly maintained shall be deemed a public nuisance and may be abated upon proper notice. ❑ Novato Zoning Ordinance (Section 19.32.050.G — Maintenance of Signs): 1. Signs and supporting hardware, including temporary signs, shall be maintained in good repair and functioning properly at all times. Repairs to signs shall be equal or better in quality of materials and design as the original sign. Signs which are not properly maintained and are dilapidated shall be deemed to be a public nuisance, and may be abated in compliance with Municipal Code Section 1.6. 2. When existing signs are removed or replaced, all brackets, poles, and other supports that are no longer required shall be removed. Unpainted areas shall be painted to match the adjacent portion of the building or sign support structure. ❑ San Diego Municipal Code (Section 142.1210.d — Sign Maintenance Regulations): 1. All signs shall comply with the following maintenance regulations whether or not a Sign permit is required. 1. All signs and sign supports, including decorative covers, shall be maintained in a clean and safe condition. 2. Signs shall be maintained in a graffiti -free condition. 3. The owner shall keep the display area of all painted signs neatly painted or posted at all times and shall correct any painting, fading, chipping, peeling, or flaking paint or plastic and mechanical or structural defect. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 102 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 . 4. Paint or debris associated with signs shall not litter public property or public rights -of -way. ❑ Long Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 21.44.040 through 21.44.060 — Administrative Removal of Signs through Sign Maintenance): 1. Section 21.44.040 Administrative Removal. Signs may be removed by the City in accordance with the following procedures: A. Illegal Or Dilapidated Signs. If the Director of Planning and Building, or his designee, finds that a permanent sign is in violation of this Chapter, or is in disrepair, deteriorated, including peeling paint, prohibited, abandoned, illegal, or is in violation of the Building Code or any other laws and ordinances, he shall seek correction of the violations as provided for in the Municipal Code. The Director of Planning and Building shall inform the sign owner by a written notice that the sign is to be removed. B. Safety Hazard Or On Public Right -Of -Way. The City Engineer, or his designee, without giving notice, shall have the authority to authorize removal of any sign which: (1) Poses an immediate threat to public safety; or (2) Is displayed in violation of the provisions of this Chapter or other City ordinances on or over any public right -of -way. ❑ Section 21.44.050 Restoration of building face. Within thirty (30) days of the removal of a sign from a building, the wall of the building shall be repaired to remove any blemish left by the removal. ❑ Section 21.44.060 Sign maintenance. All signs shall be kept in a well maintained condition. No sign shall be displayed which, in the judgment of the Director of Planning and Building, or his designee, is not in good repair and maintained in a safe condition. All signs must be kept free from deterioration, free from defective parts, free from burned out lamps and peeling paint, and must be able to withstand the wind pressure for which it was originally designed. City of Seal Beach Concern: ❑ Use of Neon for signs. ❑ Pasadena Zoning Ordinance (Section 17.48.110.D — Neon signs and architectural lighting): 1. The use of neon tubes for signs or architectural elements shall be allowed in commercial zoning districts only subject to the following requirements: ❑ Neon signs and linear tubing shall be UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listed with a maximum 30 milliamps per circuit and be designed to accommodate a dimmer in order to reduce the brightness of the neon. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 103 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ❑ Neon tubing shall not exceed one half inch in diameter. ❑ Neon lighting adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed one half footcandle measured at the property line. ❑ Neon tubing shall not be combined with any reflective materials (e.g., highly - glazed tiles, mirrors, polished metal), or other similar material. ❑ When used as an architectural element, neon tubing shall be used only to reinforce specific architectural elements of the structure and shall be concealed from view whenever possible through the use of cornices, ledges, or parapets. ❑ Neon signs placed within five feet of a storefront window shall not occupy more than 25 percent of the window area. ❑ Neon lighting that completely surrounds a door, window, or similar element is not allowed. ❑ Dana Point Zoning Ordinance (Section 9.37.060 — Neon Sign Review): 1. Prior to the issuance of a sign permit, neon signs shall be subject to review and approval by the Director of Community Development. The Director shall assure the neon sign is an aesthetic enhancement to the site signage, site design and surrounding area, and does not create visual incompatibility. Pursuant to this title, the Director's decision may be appealed to the Planning Commission. ❑ Novato Zoning Ordinance (Section 19.32.070.G — Window Signs): ❑ Maximum Sign Area. Permanent and temporary window signs shall not occupy more than 20 percent of the total window area. ❑ Signs shall only be allowed on windows located on the ground level and second story of a building frontage. ❑ Singage shall consist of individual letters, logos, or symbols applied to the glass surface; however, neon signs with transparent backgrounds may be hung inside the window glass line. ❑ Long Beach Zoning Ordinance (Section 21.44.100.B Neon Outlining of Buildings): ❑ Neon tubing lighting and stringed lighting used to outline buildings or emphasize architectural elements of a building shall not be considered sign illumination but rather an architectural element subject to review and approval through the site plan review process as specified in Division V of Chapter 21.25 - Specific Procedures. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 104 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 9 MAIN STREET SIGN ILLUMINANCE STUDY INFORMATION, PREPARED BY DOWNTOWN SOLUTIONS AND KONSORTUM1, PRESENTED TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION ON MAY 49 2005 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 105 x. �...:....: .��§ ����� \�.�d; /���. � \ : %d 2 » ©� \ d� � � \ « 2 :y \ : \ :/ � § � � � � . _ ... :� z . :�, � � . � � � � � � � � � � � � � ^\ 9� / ««« � %« � � i .� � ; � � � � � � � � � � /�� � � � � � � � � � \� f �������������������..�/ . . � > .. .� . � � � � :� � � \�� � 2� � � � � � � � � f; � � z 41 ii� �' 41 .......... non A TWA 1-41 41 .......... m ri" V,J -Y S jqv Fi t 1� / U^ : �:• -� .Y} �4 -r !3 fit' !.._ � _ d y y� 1 Y YY win At f y�yL jqv Fi d y 4:' in- 44 z\ � q \\ .� - y w «: .. .. ..� x� » »� � �� � � �� � ? 12S1�i11TM . .... .... . ZOO Ail- ONMIM m '1 m I 0 ra Q. 11 ��} 0 lot 1 .,.t i� t _D 5 Q i� t _D 0 ri "C' j, Y�2 J Al 7 ID it It v Ali fq, fr p;j sl WE it . -s 4W zirtz, v, i4� � " 4,7.;4 w;� 44 A� a ej \ � � \ � ! ��� /� � � � \ K \dam \���������������� ���������� \ ' � � � © 2`' � /� � � � � �� � � � � � � � \ :� < >,g: � . �� » »� °.� . �� «. 2y .yy . �.._ . « .�� w� . . . . : .� x� e� � � :w <� � »� <���� � d' � m� � ��.� x� � � *.. ?��<7�c����- s, i F,y. �^ i i .1 its '_r i�,l�'�I C an�i .'� 9 ' i, ,t;, 1i �i r �s� AIRWI§l R* 3.- ..PI r i r :r r / Y. - ' _ 1 l , i Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 10 ILLUMINATING ENGINEERING SOCIETY (IES) INFORMATION, PROVIDED BY KONSORTUM1 AND PRESENTED TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION ON MAY 49 2005 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 106 t - r- - -- -- - - - - -- 1 -1_'12 Luminance and Readability of Sign Face. The bright- ness of the sign face has a significant influence on the read- ability of the sign. A sign that is too bright can suffer loss of readability from a halo effect around the letters. Insufficient lighting reduces the legibility distance. The recommenda- tions for sign luminance in given applications, shown in Fig- ure 17 -35, are suitable guides. In some cases, where high background brightness is required, elimination of the halo effect is achieved by applying a stripe of opaque black paint, 13 mm (0.5 in) wide, around the outline of the letter. This applies particularly to those signs employing flat cut -out, formed, or fabricated letters attached to light- colored back- grounds. In signs using dark backgrounds with light letters, debossing, or forming depressed areas rather than the con- ventional raised letter areas, eliminates halation. LUMINOUS BUILDING FRONTS OR FACADES The same basic data for design of luminous elements ap- plies, in general, to luminous portions of building fronts. However, the surface luminances need not be designed for more than 350 cd/m2. In an area of low -level environmental lighting, 85 ed/m2 of surface luminance is adequate. . Building Fascia (Belt) Signs.Lamps may be placed at ei- ther the top, bottom, or both the top and bottom of long fas- cia or belt signs installed on the face of a building. It is nec- essary to locate the lamps in such a way that they can be serviced. By selecting the dimensions of the sign carefully, it is possible to produce acceptable luminous uniformity over the entire face of the sign with lamps located in any of the above configurations. These configurations produce a low but acceptable sign luminance. This system produces a front surface luminance in the range of 70 to 350 cd /m2. A double row raises the surface luminance to between 250 and 500 cd/m2. Major . design considerations in systems for obtaining face are: • The depth of the sign cabinet (from the face of the sign to the back of the cabinet) • Specially shaped sign enclosures with sloping, para- bolic, or elliptical contoured backs that do not im- prove the light distribution over the straight -back sign cabinet • Luminous uniformity can be improved with special reflectors at the light source (in a shallow sign cabi- net, for example, a parabolic - reflector fluorescent - lamp lurninaire can provide more uniform illumina- tion on the fascia than bare lamps alone) • The luminance uniformity ratio of the sign face medium maximum to minimum, which can be deter- mined from the following formula: CPR- :)A -VMRS 11:71 r i- -uu- - iu r•� RETAIL LIGHTING highest sign face luminance uniformity ratio = lowest sign face luminance (29-8) A ratio of 1 is best. A ratio of 2 may be tolerated in some installations but should be considered the maxi- mum allowable. Ratios of 13 to 1.5 are satisfactory for most installations. • Very high output fluorescent lamps that are as effi- cient in obtaining uniform light distribution as aper- ture lamps Examples of fascia signs may be found on automobile dealerships, food chain stores, and discount stores. Luminous Fascia Colors Other Than White. The infor- mation shown above is for signs using integrally pigmented sign face media, 3.2 mm (0.125 in.) thick, having a 40% transmittance. Whites and other colors with lower transmit- tance values produce surface luminance values below those shown, When using colors other than white, it is necessary to apply a spray coating of white paint to the inside surface of the sign cabinet in order to obtain comparable light distri- butioa qualities, - FLOODLIGHTED SIGNS" Lighting Poster Panels, Painted Bulletins, and Vertical Surface Signs There 'are no hard rules in creating an outdoor advertise- ment Since outdoor messages are viewed at distances rang- ing from 30 to 120 m (100 to 400 ft) by people in motion, logic dictates the need for brevity, simplicity, and clarity. In general, fewer words, larger illustrations, bolder colors, sim- pler backgrounds, and clearer product identification produce better outdoor advertisements. The most important factors contributing to the con- sRicuity of an illuminated sign are area'and brightness. However, several relatively complex factors affect legibil- ity of signs, many of which are psychological as well as physical. See the section "Sign Characteristics" earlier in this chapter. General Guides for Lighting Signs The following is a list of recommendations to be considered in designing floodlighting of signs. The brightness of the sign panel should be sufficient forat to stand out from its surroundings. Figure 17 -37 lists recommended illumi- nances. • The luminance should be sufficiently uniform to provide equal legibility over the message area. A maximum -to- minimum luminance ratio of 4:1 is de- 714AAA471 A 9S /_ P. 01 mpr ca uo it:tea FLOODLIGHM SIGNS Kaymana w. Swartz Figure 17 -37. Recommended Illuminances for Poster Panels, Painted Bulletins, and Other Advertising Signs Average Reflectance Recommended Illuminance in Lux of Advertising Copy [Footcandles] Bright Dark Surrounds Surrounds Low 1000 [100] 500 [501 High Soo [50] 200 [20] sirable. Sharp shadows should be avoided on the sign face. Uneven brightnesses detract from the communication impact of the sign. • The lighting should cause neither direct nor re- flected glare at the normal viewing positions. • The lighting equipment should not obstruct the read- ing of the sign from normal viewing positions, nor produce daytime shadows on the sign. • The lighting equipment should require minimal maintenance and have low annual operating cost. • The system should be maintained'to achieve the de- signed illuminances_ Location of Lighting Equipment Some of the. factors to be considered when determining whether luminaires should be mounted across the top or bot- tom of a sign are: 1. For top - mounted units: Advantages • The luminaire cover may collect less•dirt, snow, and debris. • Luminaires do not hide the message. • The sign usually shields a direct view of lamps from opposing traffic. Disadvantages • Reflected glare is more apparent:. • Luminaires may produce daytime shadows. • Luminaires may bt: more difficult to service. • The sign is more difficult to post (poster panels). • The panels are more difficult to change (painted bulletins). 9 For bottom - mounted units: Advantages • Reflected glare is minimized. • No daytime shadows are produced. • Luminaires may be easier to service. • Posting and message changing are more simply accomplished. 71466842117 Disadvantages 17 -29 • The luminaire cover may collect more dirt, snow, or debris. • Luminaires may hide the message from some viewing angles. • Shielding may be necessary to hide direct view of the lamp or luminaire optical system from oppos- ing traffic. Light Sources for Floodlighted Signs p•P There is no single type of source that can be described as best for sign floodlighting. Most lamps, regardless of type, can be used with different reflector and lens combinations to realize various beam patterns that may be required. Therefore, choices of light source for a given sign generally are made for reasons of initial cost, operating cost (including maintenance), desired end result, color, or novelty. Chapter 6, Light Sources, contains a detailed discussion of available light sources. The following lamp types are used in sign floodlighting: Metal Halide. Advantages are good lamp life, efficacy, and color rendering capability, as well as low operating cost. One disadvantage is the high initial cost. High- Pressure Sodium. Advantages are good lamp life and efficacy, but color rendering is poor. - Incandescent. Advantages include good color rendering, small size, accurate. beam control, and good cold - weather operation. Disadvantages are low efficacy, short lamp life, and high.operating costs. ` Mercury. Advantages include long lamp life, high efficacy, and low operating cost. Disadvantages are high initial cost, fair beam control, and color rendering capability below that of incandescent or tungsten- halogen laiaps. Tungsten- Halogen. Advantages include good color render- ing, high lumen maintenance, and good cold - weather opera tion Disadvantages are low efficacy, medium lamp life, and high operating costs. Fluorescent. Advantages are long life, high efficacy, and low operating cost. Disadvantages are high initial cost, lack of beam control, and variable output due to changing tem- peratures. Lighting Systems for Floodlighted Signs Concurrent with consideration of a particular light source, there should be an evaluation of other elements such as lamp housing, mounting arrangements, and auxiliary equipment - Due to improved lamp performance, metal halide lamp sys- tems are becoming more prevalent. Many existing signs are still lighted by fluorescent equipment, however. Incandes- cent and tungsten - halogen lamps with their associated hous- ings are generally less expensive to install, since they do not _. LUMINOUS- ELEMENT SIGNS Fig. 29-8. Luminous sign for attraction both day (left) and night (right). . importance, as with rental car return signs, very light letters on dark backgrounds are generally specified. Light Sources. Selection of the light source is based on the brightness required, size and shape of the sign, desired color effects, flashing or dimming require- ments, environmental temperature conditions, and ser- vice access requirements. Linear sources, such as fluo- rescent lamps, luminous tubing or custom sign tubing, may be used as the lighting element. Special diffusing materials should be used with spot sources, such as incandescent or high- intensity discharge lamps, to pre- vent "hot spots" of brightness on sign faces. Specially designed HID luminaires are available for internally illuminated signs which do not require diffusing screens because of a refractor designed specifically for this application. These luminaires effectively distribute the light from a single HID lamp across the entire face of such signs. Their use leads to cost- and energy - efficient signs. Sign Brightness. Adequate sign brightness should be provided, but it is important that it should not be Fig. 29.9. Recommended Luminous Background Sign Luminances mange of sign Luminance Candelas/ Candelas/ square meter square foot 70 to 350 7 to 35 250 to 500 25 10 so 45C to 700 45 to 70 7D0 to1000 70 to 100 1000 to 1400 100 to 140 1400 to 1700 140 to 170 Potential Areas of Application Lighted facades and fascia signs Bright fascia signs as in shop- ping centers "Low" brightness areas where signs are relatively Isolated or have dark surrounds Average commercial sign such as for gas station identification High rise signs and signs in areas of high sign competition l--or emergency traffic control conditions where communica- tion is critical 841 overdone. The best brightness depends primarily upon the desired sign visibility, its use and the environment in which it is to be seen. See figure 29 -9. Calculating the Number of Linear Lamps Needed. When white, yellow or ivory backgrounds are used, a formula for estimating the spacing of linear lighting elements (usually fluorescent lamps) in millimeters (in- ches) is as follows: d = Kr L 0/1 (29 -4) where K = 250 when 1 is in meters, 9.4 when 1 is in feet (a constant for the combined inter - reflectance characteristics of the sign en- closure), 1 = length of the lamp in meters (feet) L = luminance required (from figure 29 -9), r = transmittance of the medium (from manu- facturer's literature or measurement), = number of lumens per meter (foot) of lamp to be used. This is obtained by dividing the manufacturer's initial lumen output for the lamp by the Iength in meters (feet). (This formula may be modified for maintained lumens by including an appropriate factor z for lamp lumen depreciation [LLD] in the numerator.) This spacing is based on providing a clearance between the lighting elements and the sign face material equal to the center -to- center spacing value. However, with both internally pigmented media and with lacquer coat- ings, it is possible to obtain satisfactory diffusion in many cases with a smaller clearance. There is, of course, a minimum clearance distance, whereby an RPR -28 -2005 11:33 7146684210 96% P.03 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 11 MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN, ADOPTED JULY 85 1996 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 107 tr LOO i 0A OD5 mum -icm v:,x?: OV 4w MZ lx- Sw �,II .4s MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN CITY OF SEAL BEACH July 8, 1996 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS City Council Mayor Gwen Forsythe Mayor Pro Tem Marilyn Hastings Councilman George E. Brown Councilman Bill Doane Councilman Frank Laszlo* Councilwoman Patti Campbell City Staff Joanne Yeo, City Clerk Jerry Bankston, City Manager ** Keith R. Till, City Manager Lee Whittenberg, Director of Development Services Barry Curtis, Assistant Planner Dept. of Development Services Joan Fillmann, Executive Secretary, Dept. of Development Services * Former Member of City Council * *Formerly with City Planning Commission Chairperson Patti Campbell Vice- Chairman Brian Brown Commissioner Anton Dahlman Commissioner Mary Law Commissioner Jim Sharp Consultants Zucker Systems, San Diego Paul C. Zucker, President Laurie Price, Planner Ryan McAweeney, Graphic Designer Amy Becker, Administrative Assistant Linscott, Law & Greenspan, Costa Mesa Jack Greenspan, P.E. Jay Nelson Main Street Specific Plan Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION ...... ............................... 1 A. Vision ........... ..............................1 B. Statutory Authority .. ............................... 3 C. Relation to the General Plan ........................... 3 D. Relation to the Zoning Code and Other City Ordinances .......... 4 2. LAND USE .......... ..............................5 3. BUILDING AND DESIGN PROVISIONS .................... 13 4. PARKING AND TRAFFIC .............................. 21 A. Parking ........ ............................... 21 B. Traffic ......... ............................... 23 5. PUBLIC FACILITIES .. ............................... 33 A. Street Trees ..... ............................... 33 B. Utility Lines and Poles .............................. 35 C. Benches ........ ............................... 35 D. Street Lighting ................................... 36 E. Bicycle Facilities .. ............................... 36 F. Landscaping ..... ............................... 36 Main Street Specific Plan i Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 G. Signs on Public Sidewalks ........................... 37 H. Other Public Facilities .............................. 37 6. SCREENING OF PRIVATE PARKING LOTS ................. 38 7. DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT .......................... 40 8. RELATION OF THE SPECIFIC PLAN TO THE GENERAL PLAN .... ............................... 42 Main Street Specific Plan ii Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 APPENDIX BACKGROUND STUDIES ....................... (Separate Document) LIST OF TABLES 1. 1994 Street Level Land Use by Type and Number of Businesses within Specific Boundary ....................... 6 2. Establishments Serving Alcohol'by Type of License ................ 8 3. Parking Inventory ..... ............................... 21 LIST OF FIGURES 1. Main Street Specific Plan Boundary .......................... 2 2. Street Trees ........ ............................... 34 3. Parking Lot Screening .. ............................... 39 Main Street Specific Plan iii Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 1. INTRODUCTION A. Vision The Main Street Specific Plan has been prepared by the City of Seal Beach to provide a long range "vision" and implementing actions for the preservation and enhancement of downtown Seal Beach. The Plan applies to the approximately 21 acres shown on Figure 1. It includes the previous C -1 zoning district surrounding Main Street, the previous C -2 zone at the corner of Main Street and Pacific Coast Highway and related public uses. The regulatory portions of the Specific Plan are implemented through the creation of a new Main Street Specific Plan Zone (C -SP Zone) in the City's Zoning Code. This Plan revises a Main Street Specific Plan adopted by the City Council in January 1976. It builds on a report prepared by the Downtown Parking and Urban Design Task Force in 1984. The current Plan is the result of studies conducted in 1994 and 1995. The study included numerous interviews, an opinion survey sent to 1,200 residents and businesses with a 50% return, detailed parking counts, an up -to -date land use survey, and various other field studies. The Plan is based on the following vision: VISION The Main Street area is particularly important because it is a cohesive agent for a city that is geographically fragmented. The vision for Mai' Street is small town America. Important features include a family town with friendly people who care for each other. A pedestrian oriented area where people walk and feel safe on the street at night. An area with both architectural and economic diversity with a mix of offices and businesses. Main Street is surrounded by an area of mixed housing types and institutions, creating a complete small town community. Although it is recognized that the area will have businesses that serve both residents and visitors, the goal is to not have visitor serving uses overwhehn the area at the expense of the small town character. It is also recognized that when the weather and beach conditions are attractive, the demand for parking may exceed the supply. Main Street Specific Plan 1 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 ��r: r..� ■■�z >�� ■►roc : c 1� �.>� i[�•a■rs �t�s•►'o= 11� /ttt.1 =aa �_ >t7 ■■C� �71� 1a ='11!•11@ •� fe w per �t Nor-.v MMKJM Owen s ■roc � �\ L JU • JMNIPt ■■� INOW a r ■ MMKJW - f ■ MILANO VIC Ni D. ■ ■■LIB � "...�: ,.. � ♦.� Q• � , ■ �� 11111M, • Morle- ■ Q ■Q �ts ■ O Q ■ ■� a .mss �.0 ■ ■■cs av:. a ����o MO�a • ■ . s�t*t �•�.•f� ■ t- ■ 16 , il XEM ffilft fle-li M 9oo��ae 9� FIGURE: I (C -SP Zone) MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN BOUNDRY r-4 ZiMM5157D5 Main Street Specific Plate ' 2 . Zucker Systems ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS City Council Mayor Gwen Forsythe Mayor Pro Tem Marilyn Hastings Councilman George E. Brown Councilman Bill Doane Councilman Frank Laszlo* Councilwoman Patti Campbell City Staff Joanne Yeo, City Clerk Jerry Bankston, City Manager ** Keith R. Till, City Manager Lee Whittenberg, Director of Development Services Barry Curtis, Assistant Planner Dept. of Development Services Joan Fillmann, Executive Secretary, Dept. of Development Services * Former Member of City Council * *Formerly with City PlanninE Commission Chairperson Patti Campbell Vice- Chairman Brian Brown Commissioner Anton Dahlman Commissioner Mary Law Commissioner Jim Sharp Consultants Zucker Systems, San Diego Paul C. Zucker, President Laurie Price, Planner Ryan McAweeney, Graphic Designer Amy Becker, Administrative Assistant Linscott, Law & Greenspan, Costa Mesa Jack Greenspan, P.E. Jay Nelson Main Street Specific Plan Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, .1.796 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION ....... ....................... "......1 A. Vision ........... ..............................1 B. Statutory Authority .. ............................... 3 C. Relation to the General Plan ........................... 3 D. Relation to the Zoning Code and Other City Ordinances .......... 4 2. LAND USE .......... ..............................5 3. BUILDING AND DESIGN PROVISIONS .................... 13 4. PARKING AND TRAFFIC .............................. 21 A. Parking ........ ............................... 21 B. Traffic ......... ............................... 23 5. PUBLIC FACILITIES .. ............................... 33 A. Street Trees ..... ............................... 33 B. Utility Lines and Poles .............................. 35 C. Benches ........ ............................... 35 D. Street Lighting ......................... ........ 36 E. Bicycle Facilities .. ............................... 36 F. Landscaping ..... ............................... 36 Main Street Specific Plan i Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 G. Signs on Public Sidewalks ........................... 37 H. Other Public Facilities .............................. 37 6. SCREENING OF PRIVATE PARKING LOTS ................. 38 7. DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT .......................... 40 8. RELATION OF THE SPECIFIC PLAN TO THE GENERAL PLAN .... ............................... 42 Main Street Specific Plan ii Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 APPENDIX BACKGROUND STUDIES ....................... (Separate Document) LIST OF TABLES 1. 1994 Street Level Land Use by Type and Number of Businesses within Specific Boundary ....................... 6 2. Establishments Serving Alcohol'by Type of License ................ 8 3. Parking Inventory ..... ............................... 21 LIST OF FIGURES 1. Main Street Specific Plan Boundary .......................... 2 2. Street Trees ........ ............................... 34 3. Parking Lot Screening .. ............................... 39 Main Street Specific Plan iii Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 The differential standards used in the Main Street Specific Plan may seem to some as unfair in relation to the rest of the City. However, the VISION clearly establishes the' importance of Main Street and justifies its differential treatment. What would Seal Beach be like without Main Street? The Plan recognizes Main Street as the heart and soul of Seal Beach. What makes a community special is often the very same factor that causes pressure for change. The more charming a town appears, the greater the demand upon the community from the outside. The need to serve the visitor brings with it new businesses that can change the character of the town. Main streets like Seal Beach's have disappeared all over the .country. Typical issues include: If they become very tourist popular, tourist uses and chain stores out bid local uses, driving up the rents and driving out local uses. Traditional small one -of -a -kind stores have trouble competing with the big box retailers and chain stores. The Main Street Specific Plan is designed to address these issues. B. Statutory Authority The Specific Plan is authorized by Article 8 of the California Government Code (Section 65450 et. seq.) and this document meets the requirements as specified in Section 65451. C. Relation to the General Plan The Specific Plan carries out the objectives of the Seal Beach General Plan. It provides the detailed criteria for development of specific sites and public improvements. The Specific Plan is relatively high in the land use hierarchy, coming just below the General Plan. Zoning, subdivisions, public works projects and development agreements all must be consistent with the adopted Specific Plan. Main Street Specific Plan 3 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 The Plan creates a bridge between General Plan policies and individual development proposals. Specific language relating the Specific Plan to the General Plan is included in Chapter 8. D. Relation to the Zoning Code and Other City Ordinances The regulatory portions of the Specific Plan have been incorporated into the City's Zoning Code and are also repeated in this Specific Plan document. Therefore, the City's Zoning Code or other City ordinances, including those ordinances amended or enacted as part of this adoption of this Specific Plan, continue to apply to the Main Street Specific Plan area. Main Street Specific Plan 4 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 2. LAND USE The small town village charm of Seal Beach's Main Street area comes from a variety of factors including the eclectic mix of architecture, constrained area (only three blocks long), and relation to the ocean. However, of major importance, if not the single most important element, is the mix of uses in close proximity to one another. - Within the area there are 107 commercial parcels. Along Main Street and immediately adjacent to Ocean, Central and Electric Avenues there are 121 existing businesses located at street level. 38 office suites are situated on the second and third floors above Main Street. The 1994 land use is shown in a separate Background Studies report. The commercial uses are the key to the area's special character. The commercial center - has been able to retain its small town character due to those businesses that depend on and support the adjoining residential development. These uses are traditionally found in a small town, village center. It is important that they be retained and other similar uses be encouraged to establish on Main Street whenever possible. In Seal Beach these uses include: grocery store, financial institution, hardware store, Post Office, drug store, movie theater, and nursery. Additional land uses such as bookstores, video rentals, newspaper, cafes, doctor's offices, barber shops etc. are also essential to a small town character. Table 1 summarizes the 1994 land use. •r Main Street Specific Plan 5 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 TABLE 1 1994 Street Level Land Use by Type and Number of Businesses Within Specific Plan Boundary Use TvDe dumber of Businesses Food and Beverage Food Service w/o Liquor 9 Food Service w/ liquor 14 Bar 2 Total 25 Retail Antiques 5 Books 2 Clothing 17 Flowers 2 Food & Sundries 3 Art Gallery 7 Gas 2 Gift 5 Jewelry 3 liquor 2 Sporting Equipment 3 Drug Store 2 Home- Decorating & Improvement 1 Other 1 Total 55 �i,'! Financial 2 Law 4 Medical 2 Real Estate 2 Travel 2 Other 6 Total 18 Services Beauty Salon 14 Dry Cleaners 2 Printing 2 Other 5 Total 23 Main Street Specific Plan 6 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 Businesses that serve the residential community of Seal Beach also receive a percentage of their business from the visitors to the community, and in some cases without the visitors' business, they might not be able to survive. Part of Seal Beach's old town charm is the close proximity of its residential development to the commercial establishments. This arrangement is highly desirable. Frequently, the biggest conflict between a commercial center and an adjoining residential neighborhood is between the residents and the nearby eating and drinking establishments. In the Main Street area of Seal Beach there are 23 restaurants of which 14 serve liquor, see Table 2. Also there are two bars which serve no food and three other businesses licensed to sell liquor for off - premise consumption. Table 2 also indicates which eating establishments serve alcoholic beverages and their closing hours. A majority of the establishments are licensed to sell only beer and wine, and generally close between ten and eleven o'clock in the evening. The two bars and four restaurants with general liquor licenses (permitted to sell distilled alcohol as well as beer and wine) are allowed to stay open later. All establishments are closed by 2:00 am. The Main Street business area is located in Census Tract 995.05, which is identified by the State Department of Alcoholic'Beverage Control (ABC) as being "overconcentrated ". Overconcentration is a guideline utilized by the ABC to determine if additional alcoholic beverage licenses should be issued in that area. Seal Beach requires a "conditional use permit" for any alcoholic beverage type of sale, and the City can consider the potential impact of an "overconcentration" of ABC licenses during the public hearing process. Without a conditional use permit approval from the City, ABC will not issue a new alcoholic beverage sales license within the City. Based on 1990 U.S. Census population information, Census Tract 995.05 would support a total of 13 on- and off - premise licenses, with the tract currently having 33 licensed location, 20 of which are within the Main Street Specific Plan area. Those alcohol serving businesses with the Main Street Specific Plan area are set forth in Table 2, following. Main Street Specific Plan 7 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 TABLE 2 Establishments Serving Alcohol By Type of License * *Sun. -11:00 POLICY 1. Create A New Main Street Specific Plan Zone (Article 12.5, Section 28 -1250 and 28 -1251, C -SP Zone) Section 28 -1250. Permitted Uses. A. Permitted Uses 1) Barbershops and beauty parlors; 2) Coffee houses, dessert shops and similar establishments provided there is seating for no more than 10 customers and the gross square footage of the establishment does not exceed 1,000 sq. ft; Main Street Specific Plan 8 Zucker Systems Beer/ General Entertain- Closing Hours Establishment Wine meat Su -Th F -Sa Food and Beverage Seaside Grill X 10:00 11:00 Taco Surf X 10:00 10:00 Pasta Grotto X 10:00 11:00 Don Juan's Taco X 9:00 9:00 Hennessey's X X 1:30 1:300 Papillon X X X 1:00 ** 1:00 Walt's Wharf X X 11:00 12:00 BJ's Pizzeria X 10:00 11:00 Main St. Cafe & Grille X 10:00 10:00 Mandarin Garden X Bayou St. John X 10:30 10:30 Cafe IBfeyette X 9:00 10:00 Ruby's X 10:00 10:00 Kinda I shins X X 11:00 12:00 El Burrito Jr. X 10:00 12:00 Beverage Clancy's X X 2:00 2:00 Irisher X X 2:00 2:00 Off Site Consumption Seal Beach Liquor X X 11:00 12:00 Johns Food King X 10:00 11:00 Nip 'n Stuff X X 2:00 2:00 * *Sun. -11:00 POLICY 1. Create A New Main Street Specific Plan Zone (Article 12.5, Section 28 -1250 and 28 -1251, C -SP Zone) Section 28 -1250. Permitted Uses. A. Permitted Uses 1) Barbershops and beauty parlors; 2) Coffee houses, dessert shops and similar establishments provided there is seating for no more than 10 customers and the gross square footage of the establishment does not exceed 1,000 sq. ft; Main Street Specific Plan 8 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Friday, Saturday, and holidays. Any such establishments which qualify for temporary on -sale or off -sale licenses under the provisions of California Business and Professions Code Sections 24045.1, 24045.2, 24045.3, 24045.4, 24045.6, 24045.7, 24045.8, and 24045.9, as may be amended, shall be exempt from this requirement for a Conditional Use Permit; 9) Medical offices and laboratories facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue (1st floor); 10) Movie Theaters; 11) Parking garage; 12) Pet shop; 13) Private parking lots; 14) Professional offices facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue (1 st floor); 15) Recycling facilities as defined in Section 28 -2321 and as follows: a) Reverse vending machines; b) Small collection recycling facilities within a convenience zone; and c) Mobile recycling units within a convenience zone; 16) Restaurant, with or without alcohol sales (not including drive -in restaurants). Permitted operating hours of such restaurants shall be 7:00 a.m, to 10:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Friday, Saturday, and holidays ; 17) Similar retail or service establishments catering directly to consumers when interpreted by the Planning Commission as meeting the intent of service commercial uses and the General Plan; and 18) Veterinary out - patient clinic. . Section 28 -1251. Limitations on Permitted Uses. Every use permitted shall be subject to the following conditions and limitations: A. All uses shall be conducted wholly within an enclosed building except such uses as: 1) Growing stock, only when in connection with horticultural nurseries; 2) Parking lots; Main Street Specific Plan 10 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 3) Financial institutions; 4) General retail businesses such as grocery store, furniture store, etc.; 5) Horticultural Nursery; 6) Medical offices and laboratories facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue (2nd floor or above only); 7) Medical offices and laboratories not facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue; 8) Prescription pharmacies; 9) Professional offices facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue (2nd floor and above only); 10) Professional offices not facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue; 11) Service businesses dealing directly with consumers (dressmaker, nail shop, tailor, etc); 12) Accessory buildings and structures; and 13) Other similar uses when determined by the Planning Commission to be consistent with the Main Street Specific Plan and compatible with other permitted uses within the zone. B. Uses Subject to Issuance of a Conditional Use Permit 1) Automatic ice vending machines; 2) Coffee houses, dessert shops and similar establishments with seating for more than 10 customers and the gross square footage of the establishment exceeds 1,000 sq. ft.; 3) Coin operated amusement machines as a secondary use; 4) Commercial activities operating between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.; 5) Entertainment cafes; 6) Gas Stations located on a major arterial, subject to compliance with the performance and development standards imposed by Section 23- 2318; 7) Horticultural Nursery; 8) Liquor establishments, if part of a grocery store, provided that the number of such establishments permitted in the Main Street Specific Plan Zone shall not exceed two (2) at any one time. Permitted operating hours for such establishments shall be 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 Main Street Specific Plan 9 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 3) Restaurant, semi - enclosed. B. Storage shall be limited to accessory storage of commodities sold at retail on the premises. C. All operations conducted on the premises shall not be objectionable by reason of noise, odor, dust, mud, smoke, steam, vibration or other similar causes. D. Where any property used for commercial purposes has a common property line with property zoned for residential purposes, no commercial use shall be established thereon unless there is first erected a solid masonry or concrete block wall not less than eight feet in - height at such property line, except where a wall of a building is on such property line, no separate block wall need be provided. E. Findings required for Conditional Use Permits within the Main Street Specific Plan boundaries: 1) Additional Findings Required. In reviewing applications for Conditional Use Permits for the Main Street area, the Planning Commission shall evaluate each proposed use in order to consider its impact on the City. No Conditional Use Permit shall be granted within the Main Street Specific Plan boundaries unless the Planning Commission makes, in addition to those findings required in the Zoning Code, Section 28 -2503 and 28 -2504, all of the following findings: a) The proposed use is consistent with the intent and purpose and Vision established for the Main Street Specific Plan. b) The proposed use does not conflict with the Specific Plan's goal to establish and maintain a balanced mix of uses that serve the needs of both local and non -local populations. Main Street Specific Plan 11 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach Jul v, 1996 c) The use will contribute to the unique character of Main Street and the qualities that provide the Main Street a sense of identity. d) The proposed use complies with all applicable City Council policies, such as the policies the Council has adopted concerning alcohol serving uses. Main Street Specific Plan 12 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 3. BUILDING AND DESIGN PROVISIONS In preparing the Specific Plan, an urban design analysis of the Main Street area was conducted. This study suggested that the following factors are important ingredients in maintaining the small town village charm and a pedestrian scale: ✓ Transparent storefronts with views into shops, offices and restaurants. ✓ Building facades located near the street property line. ✓ Continuous street side facades from side lot line to side lot line. ✓ Screening of parking lots from the pedestrians' way. ✓ Building facades limited to 35 -50 feet in width. ✓ Eclectic architecture without national trademark buildings. ✓ Low one and two story buildings. ✓ Signs in keeping with the pedestrian scale and atmosphere. Although many communities would use these factors to establish a design review process, the Main Street Specific Plan takes a different approach. Specific design criteria are established to be implemented as part of a ministerial permit process. Main Street Specific Plan ' 13 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 POLICY 2. Create New General Provisions for Lot Size, Open Space, Bulk and Yards (C -SP Zone, Section 28 -1253) Section 28 -1253. General Provisions. Lot Size. Open Space and Yards. 1) Minimum Lot Size: Width :..... ............................... 25 feet Depth :..... ............................... 110 feet Area: .............................. 2,750 square feet 2) 3) 4) 5) Yard Dimension (minimums): Abutting Front Street: ............................. Abutting Side Street: .......... Abutting Rear Street:......... . Abutting Side Alley: ......... . Abutting Rear Alley: .......... Not Abutting Street or Alley on Side: Not Abutting Street or Alley on Rear: 0* 0* 0* .................. 4feet ................. 22 feet ................... 0* ........... 10% lot width; 5 ft. min. /10 ft. max.* * Where a property has a front, side or rear yard on a block face with residentially zoned properties, the minimum dimensions for required front, side, or rear yards for the property shall be the same minimum dimensions as required in the residential zone. Notwithstanding the foregoing, uses with loading zone requirements do not have to provide the minimum dimensions required for residential zone rear yards where such loading zone conflicts with such minimum requirements. Lot Coverage: .. ............................... 75% Maximum Height, Main Building: ............. 30 feet maximum Any portion of structure greater than 20 feet in height must be set back from street facade a minimum of 10 feet. Maximum Height, Accessory Building: ............... 15 feet Main Street Specific Plan 14 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 6) Minimum Required Landscape:... 0% of the site, plus one (1) tree for each five (5) parking stalls distributed throughout any on -grade parking lot area. If parking area abuts the front or side street(s), a landscape area averaging 3 feet in width shall be required between such parking area and sidewalk(s) subject to the approval of the Director of Development Services. Such area shall include a minimum of one tree for each 30 ft. of linear landscape area plus landscaping and /or wall to a height of 2.5 feet designed to screen the automobiles from the sidewalk. In no case shall the landscape area be less than 1 foot in width. 7) Lot Area Standards: . . . Smaller parcels shall not be merged for development purposes into a parcel that exceeds 6,000 square feet. Notwithstanding the foregoing, development may be permitted on parcels that exceed 6,000 square feet as of the effective date of this Article. Main Street Specific Pfau 15 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 POLICY 3. Building and Design Provisions Section 28 -1254. Design Provisions. 1) All buildings shall meet the following design criteria: a) Transparency: At sidewalk level, buildings shall be primarily transparent. A minimum of 50% of all first floor facades with street frontage shall consist of pedestrian entrances, display windows or windows affording views into retail, offices, gallery or lobby space. The building wall subject to transparency requirements shall include the portion between three feet and ten feet above the sidewalk. Blank walls should be avoided and lively facades encouraged. b) Glass: All glass in windows and doorways shall be clear for maximizing visibility into stores. A minimal amount of neutral tinting of glass to achieve some sun control is acceptable if the glass appears essentially transparent when viewed from the outside. Opaque and reflecting glass shall not be used. c) Window Security Bars: Window security bars shall only be allowed if installed on the interior of the window area. d) Facade Set -Back: Buildings shall be located on or within 4 feet of the.street property line. Exceptions shall be: a) outdoor restaurant seating areas or b) areas where abutting buildings are, as of the effective date of this Article, set back creating in effect continuous store frontages with a Main Street Specific Phan 16 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 wider sidewalk. In the latter case, the abutting buildings' set back shall be considered the equivalent of the property line. e) Facade Continuity: Building street facades shall be continuous from lot line to lot line. Parking or loading areas shall not abut Main Street or Ocean Avenue frontages. f) Facade Width: Facades of interconnecting buildings should retain their individual identity. Buildings should not be remodeled or painted to give the appearance of a single building. Any street side building facade exceeding 50 feet in width shall be segmented into individual designs not exceeding 50 feet in width. g) Trademark Buildings: Trademark buildings used to house a franchise operation shall be prohibited. 2) All new sidewalks or sidewalk replacements shall be constructed utilizing a textured sidewalk material in a pattern or design representing no less than 50% of the sidewalk surface. Section 28 -1258. Roof - Mounted Mechanical Equipment Roof - mounted mechanical equipment shall be architecturally screened to the satisfaction of the Director of Development Services. Main Street Specific Plan 17 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 POLICY 4. Signs Section 28 -1804, Subsection 3. Permitted Signs 3. C -0, C -SP, C -1 and C -2 Zones. The following signs are permitted in the C -0, C -SP, C -1 and C -2 zones: a) One unlighted sign pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of the property on which the sign is displayed. Parcel Size Sign Size Lots of record and parcels not exceeding: 10,000 square feet ............................ 6 sq. ft. 10,000 square feet to 1 acre ..................... 25 sq. ft. More than 1 acre ............................ 50 sq. ft. b) Political signs, when they pertain to an election, shall be placed no earlier than thirty days prior to the election to which they pertain. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed thirty-six inches by forty-eight inches. Said signs shall be removed within seven days after the election. c) Construction signs under the same restrictions as Section 28 -1804 (1) (d); d) For each shopping center, identification signs are permitted as follows: 1) One free - standing or pole identification sign containing the name and logo of the center. Sign not to exceed fifteen feet in. overall height and not to exceed sixty square feet on one face of a double -faced sign; Main Street Spec Plan 18 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 2) One monument sign not to exceed ten square feet in area and not to exceed four feet in height at each traffic entrance to the center, in no case shall more than four monument signs be placed in any shopping center. e) Each commercial activity may have signing identifying the activity on the premises as follows: 1) One sign per building face which is visible from streets or parking lot area. Said sign to be fascia or wall sign. 2) Size of fascia or wall sign shall be one square foot per lineal foot of building face, not to exceed-one hundred square feet per sign. 3) In lieu of one or more fascia or wall signs, one free - standing or pole sign not to exceed fifteen feet in overall height may be erected on the parcel or building site on which the building is located. Maximum size of sign shall not exceed sixty square feet per face of a double faced sign. Free standing or pole signs are prohibited in the C -SP zone. 4) In case of buildings having less than twenty -five linear feet of frontage on a street, twenty -five square feet of signing will be permitted. 5) In cases where a business is located on a street with a speed limit of thirty -five mph or more, a free standing sign or larger fascia or wall sign will be permitted. The larger may be an additional one -half square foot per lineal foot of building frontage not to exceed eighty additional square feet. (See subparagraphs 1, 2, 3, above). The maximum sign area per sign of one hundred square feet does not apply in this case. Main Street Specific Plan 19 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 6) No more than two items of information will be permitted per sign. An example of one item of information would be the name of the business, specialty item, unique service, etc. 7) Projecting signs shall be allowed in the C -SP zone subject to the following conditions: a. "Projecting sign" means an attached sign (other than a flat - mounted sign) which projects out from a building or structure and usually has two message surfaces. If such sign projects over a public right -of -way, it is subject to Paragraph 7d. b. Projecting signs shall be allowed that: • do not exceed four (4) square feet in area per side; • project no more than three (3) feet from the wall to which attached; a are located at least seven (7) feet but not more than twelve (12) feet above grade; and • are not illuminated or illuminated by external lighting. C. Each ground -level occupancy frontage may have one (1) such projecting sign if such sign is located near its primary entry way. Such sign shall be in addition to signs allowed in Section 28 -1804 3e. d. No sign shall project into any public right -of -way unless the Director of Public Works shall have first issued an encroachment permit therefor. f) When property falls under an adopted planned sign program the above provisions do not apply." Main Street Specific Plan 20 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 4. PARKING AND TRAFFIC A. Parking In 1994 there were 751 parking spaces as shown in Table 3 generally available for commercial uses within the Specific Plan area. TABLE 3 Parking Inventory Summary On Street (Public) Main Street 163 Ocean, Central & Electric (between 8th and 10th) 94 Off Street and Alleys parallel to Main St. (private) 415 Off Street (public) Electric Avenue 37 Main Street 42 Total 751 In addition to this, there are 425 spaces in the beach lots and 58 spaces in the City employee lot on 8th Street. Parking demand in 1994 was calculated in two ways. Based on the zoning, the 223,600 square feet of commercial activities would theoretically require 1,258 spaces. The second method was to look at actual parking demand. Parking counts were completed each hour during the mid -day (noon to 2:00 PM) and evening (6:00 PM to 9:00 PM) peak periods on April 9, 1994 (Saturday, Main Street Specific Plan 21 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 non -peak season) and on July 2, 1994 (Saturday, peak season, July 4th weekend). These counts are shown in the Appendix of the Background Report. The parking counts- indicate that the majority of the on -street parking spaces in the study area, as well as the parking in the public parking lots adjacent to Main Street are occupied during peak periods. However, parking in the beach lot is generally under utilized, with 48 percent of the parking spaces vacant at 1:00 PM on Saturday, July 2, 1994, which was when the peak parking demand for the beach lot was observed. After 6:00 p.m., 77% of the parking spaces in the beach lots were vacant. Additionally, parking spaces in the alleys are generally under - utilized. There are 36 short-term (24 Minute) parking spaces designated at key resident serving commercial locations on Main Street, with a two hour time limit for the remainder of the parking on Main Street. On the surrounding residential streets there is typically a one hour time limit on one side of the street, with no parking restrictions on the other side. However, there is a one hour parking time limit on both sides of Tenth Street and on both sides of Eighth Street south of Electric Avenue. In light of their proximity to and support of area businesses, the curb spaces on Main Street, and in the 800 and 900 blocks along Ocean Avenue, Central Avenue, and Electric Avenue are primarily commercial parking spaces. The remainder of the on -street parking in the residential areas primarily supports the adjacent residential uses. Annual parking passes for the beach lot are sold to Seal Beach Residents and non - residents. Further, Unocal (off -shore oil) uses the beach lot and pays via a key card. A sports fishing boat operating off the end of the pier also has a key card to use this lot. Automobile parking fees for the beach lot vary between summer and winter, and weekends and holidays. The City's residential parking permit program allows residents to purchase a permit that allows their vehicle to park more than one hour on residential streets with one hour parking restrictions. The permit also allows them to park in the municipal parking lots on Main Street and on Eighth Street at Central Avenue Main Street Specific Plan 22 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 between the hours of 12:00 AM and 6:00 AM, only. The City also issues guest parking permits with the same parking regulations. Merchants and - employees in the Old Town area can buy an annual parking permit that allows them to park in the City parking lots. The permit is to be permanently affixed to the outside of the vehicle on the left rear window or bumper. The merchant permits are not resalable or transferable. In 1984, the City began an "interim in -lieu parking program" in connection with a variety of zoning variances along Main Street. Participants were required to pay $100 /year /space on an interim basis pending development of a more detailed program. According to the approval conditions these in -lieu fees may be increased. In 1994 this fund was generating $19,600 a year in funds to the City. More recent permits have been negotiated as part of development agreements. These have been fixed fees based on $3,500 /parking space, generally paid over several years. Additionally, the California Coastal Commission has required four businesses to lease 72 other non - commercial spaces for commercial use. Based on the parking analysis, the 1994 parking demand and supply is considered in relative balance. however, there is a need to provide additional conveniently located parking to serve Main Street and to provide a base for future parking need. Most significantly, the parking analysis indicates that the primary parking problem in the Specific Plan area is the location and management of the existing parking supply and not an overall shortage of parking. However, as existing buildings are expanded, or new uses are established which would require more parking than existing uses, there will be an increased demand for parking. Since the existing commercial lots on Main Street have inadequate room for new parking, the only likely solution to parking needs is a City in -lieu parking program. B. Traffic Roadways in the Specific Plan are typically two -way with a single travel lane plus a parking lane in each direction. Main Street has diagonal parking along most of Main Street Specific Plan 23 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1 m its length, except for some parallel spaces in the 300 block, which provides enough width for two lanes for traffic traveling northeast on the approach to the traffic signal at Pacific Coast Highway. A traffic signal also exists at the southwest end of Main Street at Ocean Avenue, and four -way stops are posted at the intersections with Central and Electric Avenues. Mid -block pedestrian crosswalks have been striped in all three Main Street blocks. Electric Avenue has a broad, linear landscaped median, resulting in two one -way roadbeds. The two roadways merge at Main Street to form a single intersection. Each roadbed provides a single travel lane and a bike lane, plus parking at the right curb. The majority of the traffic entering the study area travels southwest on Main Street from Pacific Coast Highway. Generally, if a motorist can not find a parking space near their desired destination as they travel along Main Street, they will turn at Ocean Avenue and travel up Eight or Tenth Street and then re- circulate down Main Street. September, 1993 traffic counts indicated average daily traffic in the vicinity of Main Street as 9317 on Main Street, Ocean 4070, Central 3018, and Electric 3660. Using these counts, all streets would be operating at a high Level of Service with the exception of Main Street. However, Main Street is considered a combination parking and traffic street and a high level of traffic service is not anticipated. Traffic flow and traffic control is not perceived to be a problem in the Specific Plan area. POLICY 5. Parking Standards Section 28 -1255. Parking and Loading Space Requirements. 1) Off -street parking spaces shall be a minimum of nine feet by twenty feet. A minimum driver aisle width shall be provided as follows: Main Street Specific Plan 24 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 90 degree Right Angle Parking ..................... 24 feet 60 degree Angle One -Way Traffic ................... 18 feet 45 degree Angle One -Way Traffic ........... ...... 12 feet 0 degree Parallel One -Way Traffic 12 feet 2) All parking areas shall be paved with portland cement concrete or asphaltic concrete. 3) Parking requirements shall be satisfied in one or more of the following ways: (a) By providing required off -street parking spaces on the property on which the building is located; (b) By providing required off -street parking spaces within three hundred feet of such building. (c) Through participation in the City's in -lieu parking program as established in Section 28 -1257. 4) No use shall be established unless there is full compliance with the off - street parking requirements set forth herein or the in -lieu parking program set forth in Section 28 -1257. 5) No onsite loading area is required. Section 28 -1256. Number of Off - Street Parking Spaces Required. 1) Beauty salon; Nail shop ............. 2 spaces per each operator. 2) Business Offices ...... 1 space for every 300 sq. ft. gross floor area. 3) Coffee houses; Dessert shops ......... 1 space for each 500 sq. ft. gross floor area or part thereof. Main Street Specific Plan 25 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 4) Financial Institutions; Professional Offices .............. 1 space for every 250 sq. ft. gross floor area. 5) Furniture Stores ...... 1 space for every 1000 sq. ft.gross floor area. 6) Grocery stores ................. . 1 space for each 1000 sq. ft. gross floor area or part thereof. 7) Hardware Stores ................. 1 space for each 1000 sq. ft. gross floor area or part thereof. 8) Horticultural Nursery ............. 1 space for every 2500 sq. ft. of lot area. 9) Medical Offices ...... 1 space for every 200 sq. ft. gross floor area. 10) Movie Theaters ................... 1 space for every 6 seats. 11) Offices Not Providing Customer Service on the Premises ......... 1 space for every four employees or 1 space for every 500 sq. ft. gross floor area (whichever is greater). 12) Pharmacy; Drug stores ............. 1 space for each 1000 sq. ft. gross floor area or part thereof. 13) Restaurants . ......... 1 space for every 100 sq. ft. gross floor area. 14) Retail stores ................... 1 space for each 500 sq. ft. gross floor area or part thereof. Main Street Specific Plan 26 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 Section 28 -1257. In -Lieu Parking Pro am. A. Participation in Program Required: In the event a use cannot provide the off -street parking spaces required by Section 28 -1255 and Section 28 -1256, such use shall not be established unless there is full compliance with all the requirements of the Main Street In -Lieu Parking Program as established in this Section. All or part of off -street parking space requirements may be satisfied by compliance with this Section. B. In Lieu Parkin Fee: The In -Lieu Parking Fee and the formula for calculating said fee shall be established by Resolution of the City Council. C. Existing Uses - Parking Deficiencies: Any use which pre - exists the effective date of this ordinance and which is presently operating under the authority of a discretionary land use entitlement and /or development agreement shall remain subject to the terms and conditions of said approval and agreement. As a condition to those entitlements, the applicants agreed to participate in any in -lieu program established by the City Council. This Article constitutes the in -lieu parking program referenced in the resolutions conferring those entitlements and in those certain development agreements. D. Processing In -Lieu Parking Program pplications: 1. Eligible persons or businesses desiring to participate in the In -Lieu Parking Program established herein shall submit a written application for participation to the Director of Development Services on a form prescribed by the City. If the Director determines that such application meets the requirements set forth in Sections 28 -1255, et sew. of this Code, the Director shall, within thirty (30) days of the completion of such application, calculate the applicable in -lieu fee and grant permission to participate in the program, if the Director makes the following findings: (a) Participation in the In -Lieu Parking Program will not create any significant adverse traffic safety impacts, pedestrian - vehicle conflicts, or parking impacts. Main Street Specific Plan 27 . Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, ]996 (b). Participation in the In -Lieu Parking Program will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, and welfare. 2. The Director may deny the request to participate in the program, if the Director is unable to make the findings set forth in subsection 1. 3. The Director may restrict the applicant's participation in the program, if the Director determines that such restriction is necessary to make the findings set forth in subsection 1. 4. The Director's decision shall be in writing, and shall be served upon the applicant by certified mail, return receipt requested. E. eals: The decision of the Director may be appealed to the Planning Commission by any aggrieved person, in the time and manner provided in Article 29.4 of Chapter 28 of the Code. F. Payments and Deposits: 1. Payments of In -Lieu Parking Program Fees shall be made pursuant to the schedule adopted by Resolution of the City Council. In no event shall a certificate of occupancy be issued for any participating use in the Main Street Specific Plan Zone prior to the receipt by the City of the first installment or, if applicable, full payment of the In- Lieu Parking Fee. 2. Funds collected from the In -Lieu Parking Program shall be deposited in a segregated City In -Lieu Parking Program fund. Such fund shall be used exclusively for the purpose of promoting, managing, operating, increasing and maintaining the availability of parking spaces in the immediate vicinity of Main Street. G. Transferability: In -Lieu Parking space payments paid for pursuant to the provisions of this ordinance shall be credited only to the use for which participation was granted, and shall not be assigned or otherwise transferred for use on any other property. Main Street Specific Plan 28 Zucker Systems PROOF OF PUBLICATION (2015.5 C.C.P.) STATE OF CALIFORNIA, County of Orange I am a citizen of the United States and a resident of the county afore- said; I am over the age of eighteen years, and not a party to or inter- ested in the above - entitled matter. I am the principal clerk of the printer of the SEAL BEACH SUN, a newspaper of general circulation, printed and published weekly in the City of Seal Beach, County of Orange and which newspaper has been adjudged a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of the County of Orange, State of California, under the date of 2/24/75. Case Number A82583; that the notice of which the annexed is a printed copy (set in type not smaller than nonpareil), has been published in each regular and entire issue of said newspaper and not in any supplement thereof on the following dates, to -wit: �t 4a Y w a- all in the year 2006. I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Dated at Seal Beach CA, this o'Z day of -, 2006. SignaturdF PUBLICATION PROCESSED BY: THE SEAL BEACH SUN 216 Main Street Seal Beach, CA 90740 (562) 430 -7555 This space is for the County Clerk's Filing Stamp Proof of Publication of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . ..... . . . . . . SUMMARY ORDINANCE NUMBER 1543 AMENDING MUNICIPAL CODE / MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN /SIGN PROVISIONS /ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT 05-03 Ordinance Number 1543 of the City of Seal Beach (Zone Text Amendment 05-03) would amend the general standards for com- mercial signs within the commu- nity and specific amendments to sign standards for the Main Street Speafic Plan Ala by adopting new definitions relating to signs, new general provisions for all signs, and on-premise siggn standards. Ordinance IQumber 1543 was introduced at the regular City Council meeting of January 23, 2006 and anticipated considera- tion for second reading and adop- tion at the regular meeting of February 13, 2006. First reading of ordinance Number 1543 was approved by the following vote: AYES: Antos, Larson, Levitt, Ybaben, Yost NOES: None, Motion carried Copies of Ordinance Number 1543 are available from the office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 211 - 8th Street, Seal Beach; telephone '562' 431-2527 ext. 305. DATED THIS 24th day of January 2006. Linda Devine, City Clerk City of Seat Beach SB -029 Published in the Seal Beach Sun 02/0212006 - PROOF OF PUBLICATION (2015.5 C.C.P.) STATE OF CALIFORNIA, County of Orange I am a citizen of the United States and a resident of the county afore- said; I am over the age of eighteen years, and not a party to or inter- ested in the above - entitled matter. I am the principal clerk of the printer of the SEAL BEACH SUN, a newspaper of general circulation, printed and published weekly in the City of Seal Beach, County of Orange and which newspaper has been adjudged a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of the County of Orange, State of California, under the date of 2/24/75. Case Number A82583; that the notice of which the annexed is a printed copy (set in type not smaller than nonpareil), has been published in each regular and entire issue of said newspaper and not in any supplement thereof on the following dates, to -wit: M all in the ye r 2006. I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Dated at Seal Beach, CA, %�day of .tit _ X / 1 Signature PUBLICATION PROCESSED THE SEAL BEACH SUN 216 Main Street Seal Beach, CA 90740 (562) 430 -7555 This space is for the County Clerk's Filing Stamp Proof of Publication of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Environmental Review: This the City Council of the City of Seal Beach will hold a public project is categorically exempt from CEQA review. hearing on Monday, January 23, ' Code Sections: Seal Beach 2006, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 211 Eighth ' Municipal Code, Sections 28- 200,28-1801.,28-1802,28-1804. Street, Seal Beach, California, 28 -2600 n 28 -2614 to consider the following item: Applicant: City of Seal Beach ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT 05 - At the above time and place -3 all interested persons may be ADOPTION OF NEW DEFINI- heard If so desired. If you challenge TIONS RELATING TO SIGNS; the proposed actions in court, ADOPTION OF NEW, GEN- You may be limited to raising only. ERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALL SIGNS; those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing ADOPTION OF NEW ON- PREMISE SIGN STANDARDS described in this notice, or in writ - ten correspondence delivered to WITHIN THE MAIN STREET the City of Seal Beach at, or prior SPECIFIC PLAN AREA; AND ADOPTION OF "GENERAL to, the public hearing. DATED this 3rd day of January, DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR 12006 Linda Devine, City SIGNS . Clerk City of Seal Beach — MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN AREA" ZTA,05- 3.Main Street Sign Revisions.CC Hearing Notice Request: To amend Article 2, Definitions, to add new defini- SB -025 Published in the Seal Beach Sun tions regarding signs; to amend Article 18, Sign Provisions, to 01/12/2006. amend Section 28- 1801.D' Calculation of Sign Area; delete existing Section 28- 1802.E, Maintenance of Signs, entirety and replace with a new Section 28- 1802.E. Maintenance and Administrative Removal; add new Section 28- 1802.F, Legibility of Signs; add new Section 28- 1802.G, Material; add new Section 28- 1802.H, Changeable Copy. To revise Section 28 -1804, Permitted Signs, Sub - Section C. to delete all provisions regard - ing the iCSPi zone provisions and add a new Sub - Section D, 'C- 1 SP Zonei with new sign stan- dards for the Main Street Specific Plan Area. To adopt }General Design Guidelines for Signs n Main Street Specific Plan Area! to establish the following items for consideration prior to developing a sign plan with- in the Main Street Specific Plan Area: • Color; • Materials; • Sign Legibility /Negative Space; and • Sign Illumination. Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 DISCUSSION RE: ABATEMENT PROCEDURES FOR SIGNS THAT BECOME LEGAL NON- CONFORMING IYNEW STANDARDS ARE ADOPTED As discussed in previous Staff Reports, should the City adopt any provision regulating existing, legally non - conforming signs, State law requires that the City inventory all illegal and abandoned signs. The California Business and Professions Code §§ 5490 - 5499 requires that any city adopting or modifying any ordinance or regulation which regulates or prohibits the use of on -site signs must include provisions for the inventory and identification of illegal or abandoned signs. within its jurisdiction. The inventory and identification program must commence within six (6) months from the date of adoption of the ordinance. Furthermore, within sixty (60) days after the six - month period, the city must commence abatement of the .identified illegal and abandoned onsite signs. This requirement does not apply to an ordinance which is limited to regulating new onsite signs. Should the City adopt a provision applying the proposed standards to existing illuminated signs, the City would be required to embark on a program of inventorying and abating all illegal and abandoned signs. Developing and implementing such a program within the time limits mandated by the State, would require a significant amount of staff time and resources. As a result, some planning projects and code enforcement functions may have to be suspended. The Business and Professions Code also requires the City to provide compensation if any existing sign is compelled to be removed or if the sign's use is limited by any ordinance or regulation. The "useful life" of every sign is set at 15 years from the date of adoption of the ordinance or regulation. If the sign is required to be removed during that 15 year period, the City must pay compensation equal to 1/15 of the duplication cost of the subject sign multiplied by the number of years of useful life remaining. Applying the proposed standards to an existing illuminated sign could be considered as limiting that signs use. Therefore, the City may be required to provide compensation to the owner of the sign, should the standard be applied in less than 15 years. The level of compensation is not known at this time. However, staff believes that any such compensation would be minimal, since the proposed sign luminances are based on industry guidelines and the sign should remain readable. Based on the above discussion Staff is recommending that any modifications to the sign provisions not deal with the existing non - conforming signs that would be created; and that the standards would only apply to new or replacement signs proposed by a Rroject applicant. ZTA 05 -3.S ign Standards.PC Staff Report 117 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 15 DISCUSSION RE: ABATEMENT PROCEDURES FOR SIGNS THAT BECOME' LEGAL NON- CONFORMING IF NEW STANDARDS ARE ADOPTED ZTA 05- 3.Sign Stmdards.PC Staff Report 116 Planning Commission Stafj`'Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 agree with the district court's assessment that regarding both traffic safety and aesthetics, the city could regulate the construction of the signs, amount of signage and the duration of time a temporary political sign can remain before the candidate or committee must remove or replace the sign, measures which adequately address the ills sought to be suppressed and are less restrictive means of doing so. "). Staff is proposing a 60 day maximum before signs must be removed, but then the signs can be replaced. Staff will propose conforming amendments to make similar changes to the other political sign provisions of Article 18 (Sign Provisions) to the City Council at the time these amendments are scheduled for City Council consideration. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 115 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 DISCUSSION RE: DELETION OF EXISTING CODE STANDARDS REGARDING SIGN CONTENT As indicated in the previous staff reports, staff has changed "political signs" to "temporary noncommercial signs" in the proposed sign revisions. The reason for the change is that although cities can distinguish between commercial and noncommercial signs, we cannot distinguish between types of noncommercial signs. A code enforcement officer would have to read the sign to determine whether it qualified as a political sign, and that would be an impermissible content - based distinction. See, e.g., Desert Outdoor Advertising v. City of Moreno Valley, 103 F.3d 814, 820 (9th Cir. 1996) ( "Because the exemptions require City officials to examine the content of noncommercial ... signs to determine whether the exemption applies, the City's regulation of noncommercial speech is content-based."). Accordingly, staff is recommending that the language of be revised to apply to all noncommercial signs, whether "political" or not. Staff is not aware of any case law regarding a limit on the number of these signs that can be placed on particular commercial properties, although a court struck down an ordinance limiting residential properties to 2 signs. Staff is suggesting a limit of four signs and an aggregate of 25 square feet of sign area, as that is the minimum sign area allowed within the Main Street Specific Plan Area. The Planning Commission may, wish to provide additional direction to staff on the number and aggregate size limitations that are proposed. Further, the City cannot enact a durational limit on political signs. Every federal court that has considered durational bans on political signs has found them to be unconstitutional. The seminal case addressing durational limits for political signs is City of Antioch v. Candidates' Outdoor Graphic Service, 557 F. Supp. 52 (N.D. Cal. 1982). In that case, a city ordinance prohibited the posting of political signs more than 60 days prior to an election. The court struck down the ordinance as a violation of the First Amendment, because the restriction was too severe; it was equivalent to a year -round ban on political signs, temporarily suspended for 60 days prior to an election. As a prior restraint on speech, even if a regulation is content - neutral, it must be substantially related to a significant governmental interest, and the restriction must be narrowly tailored to accomplishing that interest. In Antioch, there were less drastic means of accomplishing City's goal of keeping streets, sidewalks, parks, and commercial/residential districts attractive, clean, and visually uncluttered, and so the ordinance did not withstand scrutiny. At least two courts have also struck down POST - election removal requirements. Whitton v. City of Gladstone, 54 F.3d 1400, 1403 -04 (8th Cir. 1995); Curry v. Prince George's County, 33 F. Supp. 2d 447 (D. Md. 1999). Staff is suggesting imposing a durational limit, such as 60 days, but then giving the option of removing or replacing the signs. Someone posting a temporary sign would be able to put up a new sign as soon as he took down the old one, but at least signs would not be able to become as severely weathered as signs that have no time limit on them. Whitton, 54 F.3d at 1409 ( "We ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 114 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 14 DISCUSSION RE: DELETION OF EXISTING CODE STANDARDS REGARDING SIGN CONTENT ZTA 05 -3.Sign Stmdards.PC Staff Report 113 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 (4) No sign shall project into any public right -of -way unless the Director of Public Works shall have first issued an encroachment permit therefor. 6. When property falls under an adopted planned sign program the above provisions do not apply." ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 112 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 C. In lieu of one or more fascia or wall signs, one free - standing or pole sign not to exceed fifteen feet in overall height may be erected on the parcel or building site on which the building is located. Maximum size of sign shall not exceed sixty square feet per face of a double faced sign. Free standing or pole signs are prohibited in the C -SP zone. d. In case of buildings having less than twenty -five linear feet of frontage on a street, twenty -five square feet of signing will be permitted. e. In cases where a business is located on a street with a speed limit of thirty -five mph or more, a free standing sign or larger fascia or wall sign will be permitted. The larger may be an additional one - half square foot per lineal foot of building frontage not to exceed eighty additional square feet. (See subparagraphs 1, 2, 3, above). The maximum sign area per sign of one hundred square feet does not apply in this case. f. No more than two items of information will be permitted per sign. An example of one item of information would be the name of the business, specialty item, unique service, etc. g. Projecting signs shall be allowed in the C -SP zone subject to the following conditions: (1) "Projecting sign" means an attached sign (other than a flat - mounted sign) which projects out from a building or structure and usually has two message surfaces. If such sign projects over a public right -of -way, it is subject to Paragraph 7d. (2) Projecting signs shall be allowed that: ❑ do not exceed four (4) square feet in area per side; ❑ project no more than three (3) feet from the wall to which attached; ❑ are located at least seven (7) feet but not more than twelve (12) feet above grade; and ❑ are not illuminated or illuminated by external lighting. (3) Each ground -level occupancy frontage may have one (1) such projecting sign if such sign is located near its primary entry way. Such sign shall be in addition to signs allowed in Section 28- 1804.3(e). ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 111 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 "Section 28 -1804. Permitted Signs. C. LC /RMD, C -O, C -SP, C -1 and C -2 Zones. The following signs are permitted in the C -O, C -SP, C -1 and C -2 zones: 1. One unlighted sign pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of the property on which the sign is displayed. ParcelSize ................................................................. ............................... Sign Size Lots of record and parcels not exceeding: 10,000 square feet ....................................................... ............................... 6 sq. ft. 10,000 square feet to 1 acre ...................................... ............................... 25 sq. ft. Morethan 1 acre ........................................................ ............................... 50 sq. ft. 2. Political signs, when they pertain to an election, shall be placed no earlier than thirty days prior to the election to which they pertain. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed thirty -six inches by forty -eight inches. Said signs shall be removed within seven days after the election. 3. Construction signs under the same'restrictions as Section 28- 1804(1)(d). 4. For each shopping center, identification signs are permitted as follows: a. One free - standing or pole identification sign containing the name and logo of the center. Sign not to exceed fifteen feet in overall height and not to exceed sixty square feet on one face of a double - faced sign. b. One monument sign not to exceed ten square feet in area and not to exceed four feet in height at each traffic entrance to the center, in no case shall more than four monument signs be placed in any shopping center. 5. Each commercial activity may have signing identifying the activity on the premises as follows: a. One sign per building face which is visible from streets or parking lot area. Said sign to be fascia or wall sign. b. Size of fascia or wall.sign shall be one square foot per lineal foot of building face, not to exceed one hundred square feet per sign. ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 110 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 13 CURRENT MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN SIGN STANDARDS - SECTION 28- 1804.0 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standazds.PC Staff Report 109 Violators Punishable by Fine and Imprisonment. Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this article is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable by a fine of not more than $500 or by imprisonment in the county jail for a period of not more than 6 months, or both such fine and imprisonment. Section 28 -1257. Roof - Mounted Mechanical Equipment. Roof - mounted mechanical equipment shall be architecturally screened to the satisfaction of the Director of Development Services. (Ord. No. 1406) Article 12.5 — page 10 City of Seal Beach Municipal Code December 2004 3. The Director may restrict the applicant's participation in the program, if the Director 'determines that such restriction is necessary to make the findings set forth in subsection 1. 4. The Director's decision shall be in writing, and shall be served upon the applicant by certified mail, return receipt requested. E. Appeals: The decision of the Director may be appealed to the Planning Commission by any aggrieved person, in the time and manner provided in Article 29.4 of Chapter 28 of the Code. F. Payments and Deposits: Payments of In -Lieu Parking Program Fees shall be made pursuant to the schedule adopted by Resolution of the City Council. In no event shall a certificate of occupancy be issued for any participating use in the Main Street Specific Plan Zone prior to the receipt by the City of the first installment or, if applicable, full payment of the In- Lieu Parking Fee. 2. Funds collected from the In -Lieu Parking Program shall be deposited in a segregated City In -Lieu Parking Program fund. Such fund shall be used exclusively for the purpose of promoting, managing, operating, increasing and maintaining the availability of parking spaces in the immediate vicinity of Main Street. G. Transferability: In -Lieu Parking space payments paid for pursuant to the provisions of this ordinance shall be credited only to the use for which participation was granted, and shall not be assigned or otherwise transferred for use on any other property. H. Expansion. Intensification or Change in Use to a Use which Requires Additional Off - Street Parking Spaces: Should the use of any property within the Main Street Specific Plan Zoning be proposed for expansion, enlargement, structural alterations, intensification or conversion to a new use which requires. additional off - street parking spaces_, the owner, lessee or sublessee of the property shall provide the required the off - street parking, either on -site, within 300 feet of the property on which the building is located, or through payment of in -lieu parking program fees, or additional in -lieu parking program fees, as required by this Article. I. Acceptance of Terms and Provisions: An applicant's participation in the program shall not become effective, and a certificate of occupancy shall not be issued, unless and until the participant first executes and submits for recording on the title to the property a covenant accepting the terms of the approval, in a form to be provided by the City Attorney. Said covenant shall be recorded in the office of the Orange County Recorder and shall also be maintained in the office of the City Clerk. Article 12.5 — page 9 City of Seal Beach Municipal Code December 2004 M. Restaurants ........................ ..............................1 space for every 100 sq. ft. gross floor area. N. Retail stores ........................ ..............................1 space for each 500 sq. ft. gross floor area or part thereof. Section 28 -1256. In -Lieu Parking Program. A. Participation in Program Required: In the event a use cannot provide the off - street parking spaces required by Section 28 -1255 and Section 28- 1256, such use shall not be established unless there is full compliance with all the requirements of the Main Street In -Lieu Parking Program as established in this Section. All or part of off - street parking space requirements may be satisfied by compliance with this Section. B. In -Lieu Parking Fee. The In -Lieu Parking Fee and the formula for calculating said fee shall be established by Resolution of the City Council. C. Existing Uses - Parking Deficiencies: Any use which pre- exists the effective date of this ordinance and which is presently operating under the authority of a discretionary land use entitlement and /or development agreement shall remain subject to the terms and conditions of said approval and agreement. As a condition to those entitlements, the applicants agreed to participate in any in -lieu program established by the City Council. This Article constitutes the in -lieu parking program referenced in the resolutions conferring those entitlements and in those certain development agreements. D. Processing In -Lieu Parking Program Applications: Eligible persons or businesses desiring to participate in the In -Lieu Parking Program established herein shall submit a written application for participation to the Director of Development Services on a form prescribed by the City. If the Director determines that such application meets the requirements set forth in Sections 28- 1255, et seq. of this Code, the Director shall, within 30 days of the completion of such application, calculate the applicable in -lieu fee and grant permission to participate in the program, if the Director makes the following findings: a. Participation in the In -Lieu Parking Program will not create any significant adverse traffic safety impacts, pedestrian - vehicle conflicts, or parking impacts. b. Participation in the In -Lieu Parking Program will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, and welfare. 2. The Director may deny the request to participate in the program, if the Director is unable to make the findings set forth in subsection 1. Article 12.5 —page 8 City of Seal Beach Municipal Code December 2004 2. By providing required off - street parking spaces within 300 feet of such building. 3. Through participation in the City's in -lieu parking program as established in Section 28 -1257. D. No use shall be established unless there is full compliance with the off - street parking requirements set forth herein or the in -lieu parking program set forth in Section 28 -1257. E. No on -site loading area is required. Section 28 -1255. Number of Off - Street Parkino Spaces Reauired. A. Beauty salon; Nail shop .... ............................... 2 spaces per each operator. B. Business Offices ................ ..............................1 space for every 300 sq. ft. gross floor area. C. Coffee houses; Dessert shops .................................... 1 -space for each 500 sq. ft. gross floor area or part thereof. D. Financial institution; Professional Offices ....................1 space for each 250 sq. ft. gross floor area. E. Furniture stores ................ ..............................1 space for every 1000 sq. ft. gross floor area. F. Grocery stores .................... ..............................1 space for each 1000 sq. ft gross floor area or part thereof. G. Hardware stores ................ ..............................1 space for each 1000 sq. ft. gross floor area or part thereof. H. Horticultural Nursery ........ ..............................1 space for every 2500 sq. ft. of lot area. I. Medical offices ................... ..............................1 space for every 200 sq. ft. gross floor area. J. Movie Theaters ..................... ..............................1 space for every 6 seats. K. Offices Not Providing Customer Service on the Premises ................ ............................... 1 space for every 4 employees or one space for every 500 sq. ft. gross floor area (whichever is greater). L. Pharmacy; Drug stores ..... ..............................1 space for each 1000 sq. ft. gross floor area or part thereof. Article 12.5 —page 7 City of Seal Beach Municipal Code December 2004 4. Facade Set -Back: Buildings shall be located on or within 4 feet of the street property line. Exceptions shall be: a) outdoor restaurant seating areas or b) areas where abutting buildings are, as of the effective date of this Article, set back creating in effect continuous store frontages with a wider sidewalk. In the latter case, the abutting buildings' set back shall be considered the equivalent of the property line. 5. Facade Continuity: Building street facades shall be continuous from lot line to lot line. Parking or loading areas shall not abut Main Street or Ocean Avenue frontages. 6. Facade Width: Facades of interconnecting buildings should retain their individual identity. Buildings- should not be remodeled or painted to give the appearance of a single building. Any street side building facade exceeding 50 feet in width shall be segmented into individual designs not exceeding 50 feet in width. 7. Trademark Buildings: Trademark buildings used to house a franchise operation shall be prohibited. B. All new sidewalks or sidewalk replacements shall be constructed utilizing a textured sidewalk material in a pattern or design representing no less than 50% of the sidewalk surface. Section 28 -1254. Parking and Loading Space Requirements. A. Off - street parking spaces shall be a minimum of 9 feet by 20 feet. A minimum driver aisle width shall be provided as follows: 90 degree Right Angle Parking ............................. ............................... 24 ft. 60 degree Angle One -Way Traffic .:......................... .............................18 ft. 45 degree Angle One -Way Traffic .............:............. .............................12 ft. 0 degree Parallel One -Way Traffic .......................... .............................12 ft. B. All parking areas shall be paved with portland cement concrete or asphaltic concrete. C. Parking requirements shall be satisfied in one or more of the following ways: 1. By providing required off-street parking spaces on the property on which the building is located. Article 12.5 —page 6 City of Seal Beach Municipal Code December 2004 F. Minimum Required Landscape: ............................................. 0% of the site, plus one tree for each 5 parking stalls distributed throughout any on -grade parking lot area. If parking area abuts the front or side street(s), a landscape area averaging 3 feet in width shall be required between such parking area and sidewalk(s) subject to the approval of the Director of Development Services. Such area shall include a minimum of one tree for each 30 ft. of linear landscape area plus landscaping and /or wall to a height of 2.5 feet designed to screen the automobiles from the sidewalk. In no case shall the landscape area be less than one foot in width. G. Lot Area Standards: .............................................. Smaller parcels shall not be merged for development purposes into a parcel that exceeds 6,000 sq. ft. Notwithstanding the foregoing,'development may be permitted on parcels that exceed 6,000 sq. ft. as of the effective date of this Article. (Ord. No. 1406; Ord. No. 1446) Section 28 -1253. Design Provisions. A. All buildings shall meet the following design criteria: 1. Transparency:. At sidewalk level, buildings shall be primarily transparent. A minimum of 50% of all first floor facades with street frontage shall consist of pedestrian entrances, display windows or windows affording views into retail, offices, gallery or lobby space. The building wall subject to transparency requirements shall include the portion between 3 feet and 10 feet above the sidewalk. Blank walls should be avoided and lively facades encouraged. 2. Glass: All glass in windows and doorways shall be clear for maximizing visibility into stores. A minimal amount of neutral tinting of glass to achieve some sun control is acceptable if the glass appears essentially transparent when viewed from the outside. Opaque and reflecting glass shall not be used. 3. Window Security Bars: Window security bars shall only be allowed if installed on the interior of the window area. Article 92.5 — page 5 City of Seal Beach Municipal Code December 2004 2. The proposed use does not conflict with the Specific Plan's goal to establish and maintain a balanced mix of uses that serve the needs of both local and non -local populations. 3. The use will contribute to the unique character of Main Street and the qualities that provide the Main Street sense of identity. 4. The proposed use complies with all applicable City Council policies, such as the policies the Council has adopted concerning alcohol serving uses. Section 28 -1252. General Provisions, Lot Size, Open Space and Yards. A. Minimum Lot Size: Width: .................................................................................................. 25 ft. Depth: ................................................................................................ 110 ft. Area: . .. ......................... .... ............................... .......................... 2,750 sq. ft. B. Yard Dimension (minimums): Abutting Front Street: * Abutting Side Street: ................................................................................ 0* Abutting Rear Street: ................................................................................ 0* AbuttingSide Alley: ................................................................................. 4 ft. AbuttingRear Alley: ............................................................................. 22 ft. Not Abutting Street or Alley on Side * Not Abutting Street or Alley on Rear .......... ............................10% lot width; 5 ft.min. /10 ft. max.* * Where a property has a front, side or rear yard on a block face with residentially zoned properties, the minimum dimensions for required front, side, or rear yards for the property shall be the same minimum dimensions as required in the residential zone. Notwithstanding the foregoing, uses with loading zone requirements do not have to provide the minimum dimensions required for residential zone rear yards where such loading zone conflicts with such minimum requirements. C. Lot Coverage: ........................................................................................ 75% D. Maximum Height, Main Building: ................................................. 30 ft. max. Any portion of structure greater than 20 feet in height must be set back from street facade a minimum of 10 feet. No structure shall exceed 2 stories in height and Section 507 of the Uniform Building Code shall not be applied within this zoning designation. E. Maximum Height, Accessory Building: ................................................. 15 ft. Article 12.5 — page 4 City of Seal Beach Municipal Code December 2004 be 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Friday, Saturday, and holidays; 17. Similar retail or service establishments catering directly to consumers when interpreted by the Planning Commission as meeting the intent of service commercial uses and the General Plan; and 18. Veterinary out - patient clinic. Section 28 -1251. Limitations on Permitted Uses. Every use permitted shall be subject to the following conditions and limitations: A. All uses shall be conducted wholly within an enclosed building except such uses as: 1. Growing stock, only when in connection with horticultural nurseries; 2. Parking lots; 3. Restaurant, semi - enclosed. B. Storage shall be limited to accessory storage of commodities sold at retail on the premises. C. All operations conducted on the premises shall not be objectionable by reason of noise, odor, dust, mud, smoke, steam, vibration or other similar causes. D. Where any property used for commercial .purposes has a common property line with property zoned for residential purposes, no commercial use shall be established thereon unless there is first erected a solid masonry or concrete block wall not less than eight feet in height at such property line, except where a wall of a building is on such property line, no separate block wall need be provided. E. Findings required for Conditional Use Permits within the Main Street Specific Plan boundaries: Additional Findings Required: In reviewing applications for Conditional Use Permits for the Main Street area, the Planning Commission shall evaluate each proposed use in order to consider its impact on the City. No Conditional Use Permit shall be granted within the Main Street Specific Plan boundaries unless the Planning Commission makes, in addition to those findings required in the Zoning Code, Section 28 -2503 and 28 -2504, all of the following findings: 1. The proposed use is consistent with the intent and purpose and vision established for the Main Street Specific Plan. Article 12.5 — page 3 City of Seal Beach Municipal Code December 2004 3. Coin operated amusement machines as a 'secondary use; 4. Commercial activities operating between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.; 5. Entertainment cafes; 6. Gas Stations located on a major arterial, subject to compliance with the performance and development standards imposed by Section 28 -2318; 7. Horticultural Nursery; 8. Liquor establishments, if part of a grocery store, provided that the number of such establishments permitted in the Main Street Specific Plan Zone shall not exceed 2 at any one time. Permitted operating hours for such establishments shall be 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Friday, Saturday, and holidays. Any such establishments which qualify for temporary on -sale or off -sale licenses under the provisions of California Business and Professions Code Sections 24045.1, 24045.2, 24045.3, 24045.4, 24045.6, 24045.7, 24045.8, and 24045.9, as may be amended, shall be exempt from this requirement for a Conditional Use Permit; 9. Medical offices and laboratories facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue (first floor); 10. Movie Theaters; 11. Parking garage; 12.. Pet shop; 13. Private parking lots; 14. Professional offices facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue (first floor); 15. Recycling facilities as defined in Section 28 -2321 and as follows: a. Reverse vending machines; b. Small collection recycling facilities within a convenience zone; and c. Mobile recycling units within a convenience zone; 16. Restaurant, with or without alcohol sales (not including drive -in restaurants). Permitted operating hours of such restaurants shall Article 12.5 — page 2 City of Seal Beach Municipal Code December 2004 Chapter 28 - ZONING Article 12.5. Main Street Specific Plan Zone Section .28 -1250. Permitted Uses. A. Permitted Uses. 1. Barbershops and beauty parlors; 2. Coffee houses, dessert shops and similar establishments provided there is seating for no more than 10 customers and the gross square footage of the establishment does not exceed 1,000 sq. ft.; 3. Financial institutions; 4. General retail businesses such as grocery store, furniture store, etc.; 5. Horticultural Nursery; 6. Medical offices and laboratories facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue (second floor or above only); 7. Medical offices and laboratories not facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue; 8. Prescription pharmacies; 9. Professional offices facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue (second floor and above only); 10. Professional offices not facing Main Street or Ocean Avenue; 11. Service businesses dealing directly with consumers (dressmaker, nail shop, tailor, etc.); 12. Accessory buildings and structures; and 13. Other similar uses when determined by the Planning Commission to be consistent with the Main Street Specific Plan and compatible with other permitted uses within the zone. B. Uses Subject to Issuance of a Conditional Use Permit. 1. Automatic ice vending machines; 2. Coffee houses, dessert shops and similar establishments with seating for more than 10 customers and the gross square footage of the establishment exceeds 1,000 sq. ft.; Article 12.5—page 1 City of Seal Beach Municipal Code December2004 Planning Commission Staff Report Zoning Text Amendment 05 -3 Proposed Revisions to Sign Provisions of Zoning Code November 9, 2005 ATTACHMENT 12 MAIN STREET SPECIFIC PLAN ZONING STANDARDS - SECTION 28 -1250 TO 28 -1257 ZTA 05- 3.Sign Standards.PC Staff Report 108 Main Street Specific Man City of Seal Beach July, 1996 fishing and pleasure walking to enjoy ocean amenities. Any needed repairs for the pier should be carried out so that the present use can be continued and enhanced." The Main Street Specific Plan is consistent with the importance of maintaining the Seal Beach Pier. The Plan does not specifically make any changes to the Pier. j. 1.3 Central Business Commercial Area Along Main Street; Land Use Element, Page 8 The language in this section concerning Main Street is the same as the Main Street Specific Plan Vision Statement, see Page 1 of the Specific Plan. Main Street Specific Plan 46 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Pion City of Seal Beach July, 1996 amenities. Any needed repairs for the pier should be carried out so that the present use can be continued and enhanced." The retention of the Administrative Offices and a Fire Station on Eighth Street along with the Electric Avenue Park and the Pier are all key ingredients for the Main Street area. The Administrative Offices, Fire Station, Pier and portions of Green Belt Park are included within the Specific Plan Boundary (see Figure 1). g. Scenic Highway Element Ocean Avenue is shown as a Local Scenic Highway and Pacific Coast Highway is shown as a Proposed Scenic Highway in the Scenic Highway Element. The Main Street Specific Plan design guidelines in Policies 2, 3 and 4 are consistent with these designations and implement scenic features. h. 3.1d Beach Parking; Land Use Element "Additional Coastal Area land should not be committed to beach visitor parking; instead the concept of periphery parking in the outlying areas with a transport system should be explored. The advantage of periphery parking is that beach visitors from inland Orange County could be intercepted and then transported to the beach via a tram /minibus system, thus alleviating traffic congestion directly adjacent to the beach." The Main Street Specific Plan is consistent with this language. No new beach parking is proposed within the Specific Plan area. Better use of existing parking is proposed in Policy 6 through a parking management plan. i. 3.1e Seal Beach Pier; Land Use Element, Page 33 "The Seal Beach Pier, one of the very few piers in use today along the California coastline, should be maintained as its present use to allow for both Main Street Specific Plan 45 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 The Specific Plan is consistent with this language. The Specific Plan establishes special design standards for the Main Street area in Policies 2, 3 and 4 and Policies 7 through 16. f. 3.1, 3.1c, 3.1e Civic Center Functions, Pacific Electric Right -of -Way, and Seal Beach Pier, Pages 32 and 33 113.1 Civic Center Functions Civic Center functions are divided into four main categories: Administration, Police, Fire and Public Works. It is envisioned that the Administration offices will remain in the Coastal District at Eighth Street and Central Avenue, in the City Administration Building which was constructed in 1969. Fire Department services will continue to be administered from Fire Station No. 3 located on Beverly Manor Road and Fire Station No. 1 will continue to serve the portion of the City nearest to the beach." "3.1c Pacific Electric Right -of -Way The Pacific Electric Right -of -Way has been developed as a park allowing for uses such as open space, recreation, public facilities (e.g., library, senior citizens' center, Red Car Museum, etc.). Development was through the Specific Plan Process." 3.1e Seal Beach Pier The Seal Beach Pier, one of the very few piers in use today along the California coastline, should be maintained as its present use to allow for both fishing and pleasure walking to enjoy ocean Main Street Specific Plan 44 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 d. Commercial Land Use, Page 22 "The Main Street commercial serves both local residents and, to some extent, beach going people from other areas. The diversity in market attraction of the various commercial areas indicates that each area should be treated differently than any of the others due to the particular clientele of each." This item is carried out in the Specific Plan by recognizing Main Street as a unique area. Specific unique land use tables are included in Policy 1, special design features are included in Policies 2, 3 and 4, and new commercial parking and loading requirements in Policies 5 and 6. e. 3.2 Proposed Service Commercial Uses "The proposed Land Use Element would continue the Seal Beach Shopping Center and the Leisure World Shopping Center as functioning service commercial uses. Main Street commercial is also proposed to be designated a service commercial use. As pointed out earlier, the proposed new land use designation would be a name change only, because the present existing uses are of a service commercial nature. Main Street commercial, with the attraction of the beach and the proximity of relatively high density residential, has the potential to become a unique shopping area. With strong attraction for beach users, this commercial area can and should turn to a more pedestrian - oriented environment through the design application of textured walkways, street furniture, sign graphics, landscaping, lighting, and other design features." Main Street Specific Plan 43 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 8. RELATION OF THE SPECIFIC PLAN TO THE GENERAL PLAN The Main Street Specific Plan carries out the objectives of the Seal Beach General Plan. It specifically carries out the following: a. Goal 3. Parks, Recreation and Community Beautification; Land Use Element, Page 4 "A master plan should be developed for street tree planting and other community beautification programs with emphasis on major arterials entering the City." This item is carried out through the Specific Plan's street tree program as described in Policies 7, 8 and 9. b. Goal 6. Commercial; Land Use Element, Page 5 (as amended) "A precise specific plan should be developed for the coastal business district." This Specific Plan includes the coastal business district and thus implements this goal. c. Goal 9. Circulation; Land Use Element, Page 6 "Efforts should be made to improve traffic circulation in the Coastal section of the City." The Specific Plan land use and parking proposals should assist traffic circulation. More specifically, the land use policies coupled with the parking and traffic policies set appropriate parking standards for various uses. Where parking standards cannot be met, they are mitigated through a fee program. Main Street Specific Plan 42 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 POLICY 18. Bi- Annual Main Street Review Every two years the City should prepare a Main Street review. Said review should include-an analysis of: a. Sales tax trends b. Store vacancies C. Store turnovers d. Parking as per Policy 6 e. Report from the Main Street business community Based on an analysis of this report, the City should determine what, if any, additional actions are appropriate to carry out the intent of the Specific Plan. This review should be presented before the City Council at a noticed hearing. Main Street Specific Pian 41 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 7. DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT The goal of the Main Street Specific Plan is to set clear standards for Main Street. Under these standards, merchants and property owners can proceed with improvements in a timely fashion and residents can feel comfortable about Main Street development. Nevertheless, it is unrealistic to assume, that standards, once set, can remain the same for all time. Since circumstances can change, it is important to monitor Main Street's evolution over time. The adoption and implementation of the Main Street Specific Plan can provide a major impetus for downtown revitalization. However, most communities involved with downtown revitalization have found that focusing on land use, circulation and design can be most effective when coupled with an additional emphasis on organization, promotion and economic restructuring. Such activities are strongly encouraged by the City to be undertaken by the local business community on a voluntary basis. POLICY 17. Business Improvement Activities The local business community may wish to develop on a voluntary basis additional organizational, promotional, economic restructuring, and improvement programs. Such voluntary activities of the local business community could include: Organization: Building consensus for action. Seeking cooperation from all parties. Providing long -term management and planning. Promotion: Advertising downtown as a place to shop, invest and live. Economic Recruiting businesses or developers to fulfill Restructuring: specific downtown needs and assisting existing businesses through business seminars and the like. Improvements: Trees, lighting, sidewalks, undergrounding utilities, and signs. Main Street Specific Plan 40 Zucker Systems • ■ `.� - � , ice,_ IME Main Street Specific Plan Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 LEGEND ® PARKING LOTS THAT NEED SCREENING FROM PEDESTRIAN WAY SCALE 0 100 IM sw M 39 Zucker Systems U Main Street Specific Plan . City of Seal Beach July, 1996 6. SCREENING OF PRIVATE PARKING LOTS When creating a pedestrian atmosphere, it is generally useful to screen parking lots from pedestrians. Screening can be accomplished by a low wall or hedge or a landscape strip and trees between the pedestrian way and the parking area. Where space is particularly tight, bollards can also be used to separate parking areas from pedestrian sidewalk areas. Eight parking lots on Main Street, as shown in Figure 3, lack the appropriate screening feature. POLICY 16. Screening of Parking Lots The City should develop a program to encourage owners of parking lots located on Main Street to screen their parking lots from the pedestrian ways. The City should also explore the possibility for design assistance grants or low cost loans as an incentive for owners to improve their lots. Main Street Specific Plan 38 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 G. Signs on Public Sidewalks Some businesses along Main Street currently have sidewalk signs for business identification and advertising purposes. Properly controlled and designed, these types of signs can be beneficial to both the local business community, visitors to Main Street and the City. However, the current City Code prohibits such signs. POLICY 15. Signs on Public Sidewalks The City should amend the City Code to allow selected sidewalk signs within the Main Street Specific Plan area. All such signs shall be approved by the City and the appropriate encroachment permit shall be obtained from the City. H. Other Public Facilities Since no extensive new construction is contemplated by this Specific Plan, the City will continue to utilize existing services for sewage, water, drainage, solid waste disposal and energy. Main Street Specific Plan 37 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 D. Street Lighting Street lighting on Main Street is supplied by Southern California Edison. The lighting level as of 1994 is considered adequate. Decorative lights are placed in the trees during the Christmas holidays. POLICY 12. Street Lighting Year round lights in the Main Street trees should be undertaken as a joint project of the Main Street merchants and the City. E. Bicycle Facilities In 1995 there was an eclectic mix of bicycle racks on Main Street; some located next to buildings, some next to the curb. The eclectic mix of bicycle racks adds to the small town flavor of Main Street. POLICY 13. Bicycle Facilities Merchants shall be encouraged to add additional bicycle racks along Main Street: All bicycle rack designs and locations shall be approved by the City, and the appropriate encroachment permit shall be obtained from the City. F. Landscaping Parking lots should be landscaped and also be separated from the sidewalks by landscaping. In 1994, the City's Electric Avenue parking lots met this standard, but the lot in the 100 block of Main Street and the 8th Street lot did not. POLICY 14. Parking Lot Landscaping The City should landscape the lot in the 100 block of Main Street and 8th Street parking lots. Main Street Specific Plan 36 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 B. Utility Lines and Poles Most of the electric utilities in the area are either underground or located in alleys. There are two areas where overhead utilities are particularly noticeable. One is a series of poles and lines leading off the 100 block of Main Street, another is along Electric Avenue. POLICY 10. Undergrounding of Utilities The City should adopt a long term plan to underground utilities in the Specific Plan area. Priorities should be: 1st -- Poles and lines in the 100 block 2nd -- Poles and lines along Electric Avenue 3rd — Other poles and lines in the area C. Benches In 1994 there was an eclectic mix of bench designs on Main Street; some located next to buildings, some next to the curb. The eclectic mix of bench designs adds to the small town flavor of Main Street. The City issues permits fot benches but the merchants buy their own benches and the City approves the bench design. POLICY 11. Benches Merchants shall be encouraged to add additional benches to Main Street since they add to the pedestrian scale and atmosphere. All bench designs shall be approved by the City and the appropriate encroachment permit shall be obtained from the City. Main Street Specific P&n 35 Zucker Systems J-1 manc COAST hwy. ;; N Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 FF' LEGEND #E E?=NG STREET TREES AREA W NEED OF. STREET TREE AL t', SCALE we M AM FIGURE: 2 STREET TREES // -_'UQ<FR - j Main Street Specific Plan 34 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 5. PUBLIC FACILITIES A. Street Trees A key feature of pedestrian oriented streets and sidewalks are street trees. The three blocks of Main Street have 50 street trees which provide an appropriate atmosphere for much of the street. However, there are important gaps on both sides of the street. In addition to trees missing in front of commercial establishments, there is a lack of continuity of street trees on both sides of Main Street as it crosses Electric Avenue. The trees being used on Main Street were not planted with root barriers and the type of tree being used has invasive roots that creates problems with the sidewalks. POLICY 7. Tree Types The City should hire a landscape architect to recommend a tree type and planting methods for Main Street. The trees selected should grow to have substantial canopies, equal to or greater than the existing mature trees on Main Street. POLICY 8. Missing Trees The City and /or private interest should plant an additional 18 trees as shown in Figure 2. POLICY 9. Tree Replacement When existing trees need to be replaced due to damage or sidewalk problems, trees should be replaced consistent with the findings of Policy 7 and 12. Main Street Specific Plan 33 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 of Conduct a license plate analysis to determine the number of curb -side parkers who move their cars every two hours or rub off the chalk. If this is a problem, adopt a computerized system that records license plate numbers for enforcement. of Improve pedestrian amenities, access and directional signs to the beach lots. of Consider parking meters in the public parking lots located in the 100 and 300 blocks of Main Street. d) Third Phase -- Management Improvements ✓ Construct a two level depressed parking structure on the 8th Street lot adjacent to the Fire Station. ✓ Look for opportunities to purchase land between 8th and 10th Streets between Ocean Avenue and Electric Avenue for future surface parking. The target cost should be less than $15,000 / space. ✓ Consider parking meters for curbside spaces on Main Street. Main Street Specific Plan 32 Zucker Systems Main Street Specific Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 ✓ Limit the 24 minute parking restrictions to the 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. period except for spaces serving resident oriented businesses that stay open past 6:00 p.m. ✓ Change the merchants' parking permit program to only allow parking in the beach lots. If Increase enforcement of the parking restrictions for all parkers to emphasize a consistent and fair enforcement program. of Work with the merchants to conduct a program so that employees do not park in street curb spaces. ✓ Allow public parking in the 8th Street lot after 5:00 p.m. and on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays and post appropriate signs to this effect. ✓ Analyze City employee parking needs at the 8th Street lot and open any non - needed spaces to the public. of Change the beach lots from a flat fee to an hourly fee, offer a merchant validation program, and explore use of the lots for a merchant valet program. of Improve signage to the beach lots. ✓ Formalize the in -lieu parking program in conformance to AB 1600 requirements. c) Second Phase — Management Improvements: ✓ Adjust beach parking lot rates depending upon the result of parking surveys. If usage remains low, lower the rates. If usage reaches an average occupancy of 85 %, raise the rates. Main Street Specific Plan 31 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 Section 28 -2408. Nonconforming Nonresidential Buildings and Uses May Not Be Enlarged or Structurally C. Where a building or buildings located within the Main Street Specific Plan area are nonconforming only by reason of an inadequate number of parking spaces, the provisions of this chapter prohibiting enlargements, structural alteration or expansion shall not apply, provided: 1. that any enlargements, structural alterations, or expansion shall not further reduce the existing number of parking spaces, and 2. new parking spaces shall be supplied to meet the parking requirements for the difference in building area between the existing building and new building, and 3. new parking spaces shall be supplied to meet the difference in parking requirements for the existing building between the prior use and the new use. Where property owners cannot meet off -street parking requirements, permits may be granted if said owners instead pay an in -lieu parking fee pursuant to the provisions of Section 28 -1257. POLICY 6. Parking Management Plan Although parking studies can establish theoretical demand, the actual demand for parking. and behavior habits of parkers cannot be totally determined and changes over time. Therefore, the City shall establish a parking management plan. Such a plan should include, but not be limited to: a) Conducting and analyzing an annual parking count for the Specific Plan area, similar to the one prepared for the Specific Plan; b) First Phase — Management Improvements: Main Street Specific Plan 30 Zucker Systems Main Street Speck Plan City of Seal Beach July, 1996 H. Expansion. Intensification or Change in Use to a Use which Requires Additional Off - Street Parking Spaces: Should the use .of any property within the Main Street Specific Plan Zoning be proposed for expansion, enlargement, - structural alterations, intensification or conversion to a new use which requires additional off - street parking spaces, the owner, lessee or sublessee of the property shall provide the required additional off -street parking, either on -site, within 300 feet of the property on which the building is located, or through payment of in -lieu parking program fees, or additional in -lieu parking program fees, as required by this Article. I. Acceptance of Terms and Provisions: An applicant's participation in the program shall not become effective, and a certificate of occupancy shall not be issued, unless and until the participant first executes and submits for recording on the title to the property a covenant accepting the terms of the approval, in a form to be provided by the City Attorney. Said covenant shall be recorded in the office of the Orange County Recorder and shall also be maintained in the office of the City Clerk. I Violators Punishable by Fine and Imprisonment: Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this article is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars or by imprisonment in the county jail for a period of not more than six months, or both such fine and imprisonment. Main Street Specific Plan 29 Zucker Systems