Chapter 130.36 — SIGNS — El Dorado County Zoning Code

Sec. 130.36.010 - Content and Applicability.

Content. This Chapter pertains to the regulation of signs and supersedes all previously adopted standards and ordinances regarding signs and applies prospectively only. The purpose of this Chapter is to establish sign regulations that are consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the El Dorado County General Plan and the County's visual and aesthetic goals and provide adequate identification for establishments. Specifically, this Chapter regulates the size, quantity, and location of signs to maintain and enhance the visual appearance of the County (Goal 2.7), regulates the location, number and size of highway signs and, to the extent allowable by law, eliminates billboards along identified scenic and historic routes (Objective 2.7.1). The Sign Ordinance shall include design review for signs within the foreground and background of the designated scenic corridors commensurate with the goal of scenic corridor viewshed protection (Policy 2.7.1.1).

Applicability. This Chapter applies only to the unincorporated areas of the County; within such areas, this Chapter applies to signs located or mounted on private property, as well as County owned properties and land owned by public entities over which the County has land use regulatory authority. For lands subject to the regulatory authority of the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA), signs shall meet TRPA design standards and permitting regulations or any superseding standards and regulations applicable to unincorporated lands within the Lake Tahoe Basin. Where a standard is missing for a proposed sign (such as a billboard), design standards and permitting regulations will be set by the regulations in this Chapter. For the purposes of this Chapter, Community Region sign regulations established herein shall apply to those areas designated in the County General Plan Land Use Diagram as Community Regions.

The County recognizes that signs are an essential element of a community's visual appearance and provide a means to identify communities and promote commerce, provide useful information to the public, and should not become visual distractions along public roadways.

These regulations are intended to protect the public health, safety, and welfare and provide for the integrity of the County's aesthetics.

In addition, these regulations are intended to:

Promote economically stable and visually attractive communities within the County;

B.

Promote signs that are attractive, pleasing, and harmonized with the physical character of the structure and environment of surrounding properties;

C.

Recognize the distinct signage needs and applications in the County's designated Community Regions and rural areas through distinct sign regulations;

D.

Prevent an inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message;

E.

Protect viewsheds in designated scenic corridors;

F.

Encourage individuality among communities and businesses through signage;

G.

Encourage consolidation of signs to reduce visual clutter;

H.

Improve traffic safety and the smooth and efficient flow of pedestrians, bicyclist and vehicles to their destinations;

I.

Direct persons to various activities and enterprises, in order to provide for maximum public convenience;

J.

Regulate signs in a constitutional manner, including required content-neutrality; and

K.

Respect and protect the right of free speech by sign display, while reasonably regulating the structural, locational and other noncommunicative aspects of signs, generally, for the public health, safety, welfare, and specifically, to serve the public interests in community aesthetics and traffic and pedestrian safety.

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

Sec. 130.36.020 - General Sign Requirements.

Except as otherwise specifically noted herein, the following requirements shall apply to all signage in the unincorporated Community Regions and rural areas of the County.

A.

Regulatory Interpretations. The requirements of this Chapter shall not be interpreted to nullify any easements, covenants, or other private agreements that provide for more restrictive sign regulations than are required by this Chapter.

Message Neutrality. In adopting this Chapter, the County intends to regulate signs within the scope of this Chapter in a way that does not favor commercial speech over noncommercial speech and does not regulate noncommercial speech based on message content. The message of any sign shall not be reviewed except to the minimum extent necessary to identify the type of sign.

C.

Message Substitution. Subject to the property owner's consent, a constitutionally protected noncommercial message of any type may be substituted in whole or in part for the message displayed on any sign for which the sign structure or mounting device is authorized in compliance with this Chapter, without consideration of message content. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting. This provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech or favoring of any particular protected noncommercial message over any other protected noncommercial message. In addition, any on-site commercial message may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any other on-site commercial message, provided that the sign structure or mounting device is authorized in compliance with this Chapter, without consideration of message content.

This provision does not create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel, lot, or land use; does not affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted; does not allow a change in the physical structure of a sign or its mounting device or location; does not allow for the substitution of an off-site commercial message in the place of an on-site commercial or noncommercial message, and does not authorize the conversion of an existing sign to general advertising for hire.

D.

On-Site/Off-Site Distinction. Within this Chapter, the distinction between on-site and off-site signs applies only to commercial messages.

E.

Community Region/Rural Distinction. Within this Chapter, Community Region sign regulations shall apply to those areas designated as Community Regions on the County General Plan Land Use Diagram. Rural sign regulations shall apply to areas in the unincorporated County not otherwise designated as Community Region in the County General Plan Land Use Diagram. Unless otherwise noted, sign regulations in this Chapter shall apply to both Community Regions and rural areas equally.

F.

General Prohibition. Permanent signs not expressly allowed by this Chapter are prohibited.

G.

Exceptions to Limitations. Any exception to the limitations and/or sign development standards stated or shown within this Chapter shall require a Variance in compliance with Government Code Section 65906 (Variance) or a Development Plan Permit in compliance with Section 130.52.040 (Development Plan Permit) in Article 5 (Planning Permit Processing) of this Title. However, consideration of the Variance request or Development Plan Permit shall not evaluate the message or graphic design of the sign.

H.

Severability. If any Section, Subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or part of this Chapter is for any reason found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Chapter, which shall be in full force and effect. The Board hereby declares that it would have adopted this Chapter with each Section, Subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or part thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more Sections, Subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases or parts be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

Sec. 130.36.030 - Exemptions.

The following sign types are expressly exempted from the Planning Sign Permit requirements of this Chapter but must satisfy all other applicable permit requirements when applicable (e.g., Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Grading, Encroachment). Except as otherwise specifically noted herein, these exemptions shall apply in all unincorporated Community Regions and rural areas of the County.

A.

Exempt Signs Without Limitations. The following signs are exempt from Sign Permit requirements with no specific limitations:

1.

Conforming signs that change messages, but do not alter the size, location, or illumination. This provision does not authorize the conversion of an existing legal sign to a general advertising for hire use or to a digital display.

2.

All devices which are excluded from the definition of a "sign" as set forth in this Chapter.

3.

Official traffic signs or other municipal governmental signs, legal notices, advertisements and notices prescribed by law and placed by governmental entities, and signs indicating the location of buried utility lines or any notice posted by a governmental officer in the scope of his or her duties.

4.

Direction, warning, or information signs or structures required or authorized by law, or by federal, state, county, or county authority, including, but not limited to, traffic control signs (e.g., stop, yield), highway route number signs, and construction zone or site signs. Such signs may include electronic (digital) message signs, as defined in this Chapter and are not limited to 50 percent display area.

5.

Noncommercial utility company signs identifying cables, conduits, and dangerous situations.

6.

Street address signs on structures and building identification signs consistent with the County-adopted building code or relevant provisions of the County Municipal Code. Notwithstanding anything in this Section, street address signs may be illuminated and may contain reflective paint or material.

7.

Tablets and plaques installed by the County, or by a state, federal, or county recognized historical organization exempt from federal taxation under Section 501 of USC Title 26 (IRS Code), or signs authorized and installed by county, state or federal agencies on public owned lands.

8.

Vehicle signs on currently registered and operable vehicles and vessels, including license plates, license plate frames, registration insignia, noncommercial messages, messages relating to the establishment for which the vehicle or vessel is an instrument or tool (not including general advertising, such as mobile billboards), and messages relating to the proposed sale, lease, or exchange of the vehicle or vessel.

9.

Signs and advertising located upon the buses, vehicles and bus shelters of the El Dorado Transit Authority.

Signs on California State Park Lands in conformance with the standards enforced by the State of California as set forth in the Department of Parks and Recreation Sign Handbook, 1973, as amended.

11.

Signs on National Forest lands, including sites permitted for private use, in conformance with the standards enforced by the U.S. Forest Service as set forth in the Forest Service Catalog of Posters and Signs, EM-7100-15, as amended.

12.

Relocation or Digital Conversion of Off-Site Billboards. Notwithstanding the prohibition on billboards in Subsection 130.36.090.B.2 (Prohibited Signs) the Board may, at its sole discretion, enter into written agreements for 1) relocation of existing off-site general advertising for hire signs (e.g. billboards) to County owned land, and such relocation may, in the County's sole discretion, allow conversion of a relocated non-digital sign to a digital sign and/or 2) conversion of existing nondigital billboard signs to digital signs on private property, both in accordance with Business and Professions Code Section 5412. The display area of such signs shall not be limited to 50 percent.

B.

Exempt Signs With Limitations. The following signs are exempt from Sign Permit requirements, provided that they meet the size, height, duration, and/or maximum number limitations listed below. Exempt signs that do not meet the limitations listed may be allowed only by Variance or Development Plan Permit as outlined in Section 130.36.020.G (Variance) or in Section 130.52.040 (Development Plan Permit) in Article 5 (Planning Permit Processing) of this Title.

1.

No more than 25 percent of total window area shall be obscured by signs. Window signs do not count toward cumulative allowable sign area. Window signage shall be placed so that law enforcement personnel have a clear and unobstructed view of the interior of the establishment, including any cash registers.

2.

Temporary signs in conformity with Section 130.36.050 (Temporary Signs) below in this Chapter.

3.

Flags, not subject to the standards set forth in Table 130.36.050.1 (Allowed Temporary On-Site Sign Standards) below in this Chapter, shall meet the following requirements:

a.

Flag poles shall be located outside of the public right-of-way.

b.

The maximum height for flag poles is 30 feet.

c.

The maximum size for any one flag is 30 square feet.

4.

Signs on property undergoing construction or remodeling not exceeding 32 square feet each in area and limited to one sign for each street frontage. Such signs shall not be illuminated. Such signs shall be removed within 30 days of the earliest of the following events: final building inspection approval, issuance of a valid certificate of occupancy, opening for business to the public, or expiration of the Building Permit.

Signs warning against trespass, hunting or shooting as described in Section 602 of the California Penal Code not to exceed two square feet per sign and spaced in accordance with the requirements of state law.

6.

Signs on property that is currently offered for sale, lease, or rental [also referred to as "real estate signs" as defined in 130.36.120 (Definitions)]:

a.

On single-family home and improved multi-family property for two to four units, one sign not exceeding eight square feet and not exceeding a height of five feet. Up to four signs to direct traffic to the subject property are allowed, provided each sign does not exceed eight square feet in area and three and one-half feet in height. A sign shall not be placed on a sidewalk or street or public right-of-way. A sign shall not create a safety hazard. Such signs shall not be illuminated.

b.

On nonresidential and residential property suitable for investment and development, and agricultural and resource-zoned property, one sign per street or road frontage, not exceeding 32 square feet in area and 12 feet in height. The sign shall not be illuminated.

7.

Signs on private property where there is a garage, yard, or estate sale taking place. Such signs may be posted for no more than 48 hours and must be removed at the end of the sale. A maximum of six square feet is allowed per sign.

8.

On-site directional signs, such as exit, entrance, or other on-site traffic directional signs, the maximum height of any directional sign shall not exceed three and one-half feet and the maximum size shall not exceed six square feet within designated Community Regions under 3,000-foot elevation of the County. Within the designated rural areas, the maximum height of any on-site directional sign shall not exceed 12 feet and the maximum size shall not exceed 32 square feet. Within Community Regions above 3,000-foot elevation, rural area height limit shall apply. In both Community Regions and rural areas of the County, no advertising or message other than for traffic direction shall be displayed on the signs authorized by this subsection.

9.

Off-site commercial directional signs on private property within the designated rural areas of the County, for establishments that are not directly abutting County roads. For establishments that solely derive access from a private road, each establishment is allowed one non-illuminated commercial directional sign with a maximum sign area of 16 square feet and a maximum height of 12 feet at the intersection of the private road with the county road. Additional commercial directional signs are allowed for the establishment at other intersecting points along the private road to provide guidance to the establishment. Each additional commercial directional sign shall have a maximum allowed area of 12 square feet and a maximum height of 12 feet. Such signs may be permanent or temporary and require property owner consent. This provision does not allow general advertising for hire.

10.

Temporary signs displaying noncommercial messages subject to:

a.

Six square feet of signage, set back at least five feet from the public right-of-way and not projecting above the roofline of any structure.

During the time period beginning 60-days before a special, general, or primary election and ending two weeks after such election, the total allowed sign area for noncommercial messages may be 32 square feet in area. The same setback and height restrictions listed above shall apply to this additional area. Such signs shall be non-illuminated.

11.

Home Occupation signs identifying authorized home business activities on site. All signs shall be non-illuminated, compatible in design with existing residential structures, and consistent with the sign development and design standards as listed on Table 130.36.070.3 (Sign Standards for Home Occupation Signs) below in this Chapter.

12.

Motor vehicle fuel pricing signs, as required by state law, which identify the brand, types, octane rating, etc., of motor vehicle fuel for sale within the County (Section 13531 of the Business and Professional Code as it may be amended). Motor vehicle fuel pricing signs are limited to one sign per establishment, in addition to the business identification sign provided for in this Chapter, and shall have a maximum sign area (including the area for all brands, types, octane rating, price, and the service station name) of 60 square feet.

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

Sec. 130.36.040 - Permanent Signs.

A.

Permanent On-Site Signs. Permanent on-site signs allowed in the County's zoning districts include the following sign types:

1.

Building-Attached Signs. Allowed permanent on-site signs attached to a structure include wall signs, projecting signs, awning or canopy signs, under canopy signs, and roof signs on non-residential structures within the designated rural areas of the County, consistent with the standards listed in Table 130.36.070.2 (Rural Area Signage Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs) below in this Chapter.

2.

Freestanding Signs. Allowed permanent freestanding signs include monument and pylon signs. Permanent on-site signs shall be consistent with the sign design and developments standards as described in this Chapter and shown on Tables 130.36.070.1 and 130.36.070.2 (Signage Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs, Community Region and Rural Area, respectively) below in this Chapter.

3.

Signs for Drive-In and Drive-Through Uses. Signage shall be consistent with the sign design and developments standards as described in this Chapter. No alterations or additions (e.g., rider signs) along the exterior of the sign are allowed.

4.

U.S. Highway 50-Oriented Signs. Signs on properties within 100 feet of the edge of the right-of-way or designed to be visible from U.S. Highway 50 that are outside of the designated State Scenic Highway Corridor. (Note: Designated State Scenic Highway Corridors in El Dorado County shall be subject to special sign regulations under the reserved Section 130.27.070 (Design Review—Scenic Corridor (-DS) Combining Zone) in Article 2 (Zones, Allowed Uses, and Zoning Standards) of this Title.)

Permanent on-site signs shall not be used as general advertising for hire.

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

Sec. 130.36.050 - Temporary Signs.

Temporary signs may include, but are not limited to, commercial signs (including sign twirlers) for grand openings, products/services, sales, special events, and new apartments/multi-family units. All temporary signs must comply with the standards listed in Table 130.36.050.1 (Allowed Temporary On-Site Sign Standards) below in this Section and are subject to the conditions herein.

A.

Time Duration. Display periods for temporary on-site signs shall be limited to a cumulative maximum of 90 days per establishment per calendar year, unless otherwise specified below.

1.

Apartment Signs. Signs at new or substantially renovated apartments shall be removed six months from opening.

2.

Banner Signs. All banner signs (including feather banners) utilized for grand opening events shall be limited to a maximum of 30 consecutive days per establishment per calendar year.

3.

Feather Banners and Sign Twirlers. Feather banners and sign twirlers shall be allowed only on-site during daylight hours and shall be removed from dusk to dawn and during all times when the establishment is closed or event is completed.

4.

A-Frame Signs. A-frame signs are not subject to the 90-day display period and shall be allowed year-round. A-Frame signs shall be allowed only on-site during daylight hours and shall be removed from dusk to dawn and during all times when the establishment is closed or event is completed. A-frame signs must be located outside the public right-of-way and allow sufficient access to doors/pathways and not impede pedestrian access or movement allowing for at least five feet clearance.

B.

Illumination. Temporary signs shall not be illuminated.

C.

Message. Temporary signs displaying a commercial message shall be limited to on-site signage only. Off-site signage displaying a commercial message shall not be allowed, except as noted in Section 130.36.030.B.9 (Exempt Signs With Limitations) above in this Chapter.

D.

Illegal Signs. Illegal temporary signs shall be removed immediately.

Table 130.36.050.1—Allowed Temporary On-Site Sign Standards

Sign Type	Number Allowed	Max. Area	Max. Height	Minimum Setback from Right- of-Way1
	On-Site Subdivision and Apartment Signs1
Banner	3	30 sf each	Roofine	5 feet
Feather Banner	1 per subdivision	30 sf	12 feet	5 feet
Entrance	1 per subdivision entrance	80 sf each	15 feet	5 feet

Model Home	1 per model home	8 sf	2 feet	5 feet
Flags	5 poles per street frontage, max 15 poles per subdivision	20 sf per pole	25 feet	5 feet
Sign Twirler	1 per subdivision entrance; on legal parcel of subdivision	12 sf	8 feet	5 feet
	All Other Uses1
Banner	1 sign (any type) per establishment per street frontage	50 sf	Roofine	5 feet behind face of curb, outside of right-of-way
Feather Banner		30 sf	12 feet
A-Frame		8 sf	4 feet
Sign Twirler	1 per establishment; on legal parcel of establishment	12 sf	8 feet	5 feet
Notes 1Must be located outside of the required cross visibility area as defned in the Design Improvement Standards Manual.

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

Sec. 130.36.060 - Community Sign Programs. ¶

In addition to the sign permits required by this Chapter, a Community Sign Program shall be required for all new or modified community directional, identity, event, and industry association signs located on private property or County-maintained roads or rights-of-way [per Section 130.36.110 (Signs on County Property)] that are part of a County-authorized and coordinated program to provide the public with information and guidance concerning public accommodations, facilities, commercial services, events, and points of scenic, cultural, historic, educational, recreational, religious interest, and other local community destinations. For existing community signs without a community sign program in place, the purpose of this provision is to bring eligible signs under the program into conformance with the development code, while allowing existing legal signage to remain until new signage is proposed. Signs under this program shall be permitted in any zone district by a Design Review Permit (DR) and be subject to review and approval by the approval authority as shown on Table 130.36.080.1. At a minimum, community sign programs applications should include the program type (directional, identity, event, industry association), the number of signs, sign area, height, and location of signs, and should include plans illustrating sign type, size, color, materials. Program descriptions and standards for each sign type are outlined below.

A.

Community Directional. Community directional sign programs generally include, but are not limited to, signs to direct residents and visitors to points of interest, recreational areas, and tourist industries in the County. Application for community directional signs shall clearly identify the intent of the proposed sign program (e.g. points of interest, recreational areas, tourist industries, historical structures). Community directional signs shall be limited to freestanding signs. Freestanding direction signage shall be limited to six square feet in total sign area, set back at least five feet from the public right-of-way, and not projecting above the roofline of any structure.

B.

Community Identity. Community identity sign programs shall establish a means for individual communities within the County to designate their name at main point(s) of entry to their community. Such signage shall be unique in design as a means to define each community's character, quality, or historic contribution to the County. Community identity signs are limited to a maximum of two signs per community. Community identity signs shall conform to the following standards:

1.

Area. Community identity signs shall not exceed 96 square feet in sign area.

2.

Height. Signs shall not exceed 12 feet in height.

Illumination. Signs may be internally or externally illuminated.

4.

Sign Spacing. Community identity signs shall be located a minimum of 250 feet apart.

5.

Architectural Compatibility. Signs shall be compatible in architectural scale and bulk with the architectural style of one or more visually prominent structures within the identified community. The applicant shall incorporate construction materials, color, letter style, and other design details in designing an architecturally compatible sign. It is not the intent of this provision to regulate creative aspects of signage, but only to regulate the size, height, placement, and physical characteristics of signs in order to protect the public health, safety and welfare and to avoid incompatibility with the surrounding local neighborhood or community.

C.

Community Events. Community event sign programs are limited to identified sites for the display of event signs as shown on a new or modified application, as appropriate. Signs may be allowed to be displayed up to 30-days prior to the event and shall be removed within three days after the event has ended. The following standards shall apply. Community event signs shall be limited to banners, feather banners, and A-frame signs and shall conform to the standards in Section 130.36.050 (Temporary Signs).

D.

Industry Association Signs. Industry association sign programs shall establish directional and identifying agricultural industry association signs such as those offered by the El Dorado County Farm Bureau, Farm Trails, Apple Hill Growers Association, El Dorado Winery Association and similar groups. The intent of this Section is not to duplicate requirements outlined in Section 130.36.060.A (Community Directional). Industry association signs shall be limited to pylon and pole signs with a maximum sign area of 12 square feet, a maximum height of eight feet, non-illuminated, and set back at least five feet from the public right-ofway.

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

Sec. 130.36.070 - Sign Development and Design Standards.

This Section establishes standards for sign development and design, including, but not limited to, methods for measuring sign size, area and height, sign placement, construction, design, illumination, maintenance, and removal. Unless otherwise specified in this Section, sign development and design standards shall apply to all signs within the unincorporated Community Regions and rural areas of the County.

A.

General Sign Design Requirements for Permanent Signs. Permanent Signs shall comply with the following general design requirements as well as design standards applicable to specific types of signs listed herein in Subsection 130.36.070.K (Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs) below in this Section.

1.

Design Compatibility with Structure. Signs shall be compatible in architectural scale and bulk with the architectural style of the main structure or structures on the site where the sign is located. The applicant shall incorporate construction materials, color, letter style, and other design details in designing an architecturally compatible sign. Multiple signs on any structure, or on structures within the same development, shall have the same primary type of building-attached sign. It is not the intent of this provision to regulate creative aspects of signage, but only to regulate the size, height, placement, and physical characteristics

of signs in order to protect the public health, safety and welfare and to avoid incompatibility with the surrounding local neighborhood or community.

2.

Sign Illumination. The artificial illumination of signs, from either an internal or external source, shall be designed to prevent the casting of stray light on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. All illuminated signs shall comply with the following:

a.

External light sources shall be directed toward the sign and fully shielded to limit direct illumination of any object other than the sign.

b.

The light from an illuminated sign shall not be of an intensity or brightness that creates glare or other negative impacts on residential properties in direct line of sight to the sign.

c.

Unless otherwise allowed by another provision of this Chapter, signs shall not have blinking, flashing, or intermittent lights or other illumination devices that have a changing light intensity, brightness, or color.

d.

Colored lights shall not be used at a location or in a manner so as to be confused or interpreted as traffic control devices.

e.

Light sources shall utilize energy-efficient fixtures compliant with Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations.

B.

Sign Area Measurement Procedures. The sign area is determined by the shape of the sign. For signs that are not four-sided, the sign area is the available display area. For example, for the star-shaped logo sign shown in Figure 130.36.070.A (Star Shaped Sign Area) below in this Section, the sign area is the shaded area within the star shape. For irregularly shaped signs or signs with cursive individual letters, the area of the sign may be calculated by using multiple geometric shapes (see Figure 130.36.070.B (Irregularly Shaped Sign Area) below in this Section. In determining the area of an individual sign that has more than one face (e.g., a monument or projecting sign), the single sign face with the greatest area shall be used.

1.

Sign Area Examples.

Figure 130.36.070.A Star Shaped Sign Area

==> picture [150 x 93] intentionally omitted <==

Figure 130.36.070.B Irregularly Shaped Sign Area

==> picture [197 x 123] intentionally omitted <==

2.

Awning, Canopy, Push Pin, and Channel Letter Sign Area. Sign area for copy, which is applied to an awning, canopy, or as separate lettering onto the building facade shall be computed at 100 percent of the area within a single parallelogram enveloping the sign copy.

3.

Freestanding Sign Area. Freestanding sign area is to be computed as total height by the total length of the sign face for one side regardless if it is single- or double-face, excluding structural or architectural framework with no sign copy. See Figure 130.36.070.C (Freestanding Sign Area) below in this Section.

Figure 130.36.070.C Freestanding Sign Area

==> picture [241 x 124] intentionally omitted <==

4.

Three-Dimensional Objects. Where a sign consists of one or more three-dimensional objects (e.g., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculptures, or statue-like trademarks or symbols), the sign area shall be measured as their maximum visible surface area from any vantage point. See Figure 130.36.070.D (Area of Three-Dimensional Objects) below in this Section.

Figure 130.36.070.D Area of Three-Dimensional Objects

==> picture [163 x 62] intentionally omitted <==

Sign Height Measurement. Sign height shall be measured from the ground, adjacent to the sign, to the top of the sign and support structure. If the ground under the sign slopes, the height shall be measured from the average grade under the sign itself.

Construction Requirements. Every sign and all parts, portions, and materials thereof shall be manufactured, assembled, and erected in compliance with all applicable state, federal, and county laws and regulations, including the locally adopted building code. All signs shall comply with the following criteria:

1.

All transformers, equipment, programmers, and other related items shall be screened and/or painted to match the structure or shall be concealed within the sign.

2.

All permanent signs shall be constructed of quality materials such as metal, concrete, natural stone, wood, glass, and acrylics. Techniques shall be incorporated during construction to reduce fading and damage caused by exposure to sunlight or degradation due to other elements.

3.

All freestanding signs that incorporate lighting shall have underground utility service.

4.

All temporary signs and banners shall be maintained in good condition for as long as the sign is displayed.

E.

Sign Placement.

1.

Location of Building-Attached Signs. Building-attached signs may be located along any frontage of a building that faces directly onto a public right-of-way or an internal circulation path of the site. Orientation of signs that face directly onto residential property is allowed only when there is no practical alternative, the visibility of the sign from the residence is minimized and the sign is not illuminated.

2.

Clearance from Public Utility Facilities. The person erecting a sign and the owner of the premises shall maintain any legally required clearance from communications and electric facilities. A sign may not be constructed, erected, installed, maintained, or repaired in any manner that conflicts with a rule, regulation, or order of the California Public Utilities Commission pertaining to the construction, operation, and maintenance of public utilities facilities.

3.

Interference with Motorist Field of Vision.

a.

No sign shall be located in a manner that obstructs the view of traffic or safety signs, encroaches into a cross-visibility area as described in the County Design Improvement Standards Manual (DISM) or otherwise poses a traffic or safety hazard.

b.

Any landscaping shall be trimmed as needed to provide clear visibility of the sign or signs.

c.

Signs shall not be located within the "cross visibility area," as defined in the Design Improvement Standards Manual.

Setback and Spacing of Freestanding Signs. Setback and spacing standards for freestanding signs are as follows:

I.

Standards for Off-Site Subdivision Signs. The purpose of subdivision signs is to direct the traffic related to new residential subdivisions in a manner that minimizes visual clutter, reduces unnecessary traffic through established neighborhoods, and provides an orderly, attractive, high-quality image of the County.

1.

Subdivision signs shall not exceed 60 square feet in sign area, 12 feet in height, and the display area shall be at least two feet off the ground.

All subdivision signs require approval of a Subdivision Sign Permit as required under Section 130.36.080.D (Subdivision Sign Permit) below in this Chapter and their locations approved within or outside of the County's right-of-way.

3.

Subdivision signs listing multiple subdivisions shall include removable sign panels with no more than one panel per residential subdivision.

4.

No subdivision sign may be located within 1,000 feet of another subdivision sign except in the case of signs on different corners of an intersection.

5.

All subdivision signs placed on private property require written consent of the property owner and require an Administrative Permit. All subdivision signs placed within County right-of-way require an Encroachment Permit issued by the County Department of Transportation.

6.

Subdivision signs may only be located in a manner that does not obstruct the view of traffic or safety signs, encroach within the cross-visibility area described in the County DISM, or otherwise pose a traffic or safety hazard.

7.

There shall be no additions, tag signs, streamers, balloons, flags, riders, devices, display boards, or appurtenances added to the subdivision signs as approved.

8.

Structures and panels on subdivision signs may not be displayed after a subdivision developer has completed the sale of all units in the development. Each developer shall be responsible for sign removal.

9.

All signs for housing subdivisions shall be removed within 30 days after all lots in the subdivision are sold.

10.

Security Deposit. The County shall require the developer to submit a performance deposit or other form of security to ensure compliance with the standards of this Section. The form, amount and term of the security instrument shall be specified by the permit issuing body and approved by County Counsel.

J.

Standards for U.S. Highway 50-Oriented Signs. Proposed on-site signs designed for visibility from U.S. Highway 50, including signs within 100 feet of the edge of the right-of-way, but outside of the officially designated scenic corridor, are subject to a Design Review Permit. U.S. Highway 50-oriented signs shall be consistent with the standards provided below, and as required in other provisions of this Chapter. U.S. Highway 50-oriented signs shall not be used as general advertising for hire.

1. Location.

a.

Zone District	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Community Regions	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Community Regions
	Building- Attached	Freestanding

		Number Allowed	Max. Area	Max. Height	Specifc Reg.
	Residential and Agricultural Zone Districts
R1 R20K R1A R2A R3A RE (-5 or -10)	Not allowed	1 non-illuminated sign per subdivision or neighborhood	12 sf	8 feet
R2 RM	Not allowed	1 non-illuminated sign per subdivision or neighborhood	12 sf	8 feet	See Section
RT	Not allowed	1 sign per development	12 sf	8 feet	130.36.070
MP	Not allowed	1 sign per park	12 sf	8 feet
PA	Not allowed	1 non-illuminated sign per parcel	16 sf	12 feet
AG	Not allowed	2 non-illuminated signs per parcel	32 sf	12 feet

Table 130.36.070.1b—Community Region Area Signage Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs

Zone	Allowed Signs and Development	Standards in Community Regions
District	Building-Attached	Freestanding
	Commercial Zone Districts
CC CG CR	1 or more signs per establishment not exceeding a maximum sign area of 150 sf. Roofine is max height	Individual Establishment: No more than 1 sign per public street frontage as follows: ▷60 sf max area. 12 ft max height
		Integrated Development: 1 multi-tenant sign per public street frontage as follows: ▷80 sf max area, 20 ft max height
CL CM CPO	1 or more signs not exceeding a combined total of 60 sf per establishment; Roofine is max height	Individual Establishment: No more than 1 sign per public street frontage as follows: ▷60 sf max area, 12 ft max height
		Integrated Development: 1 multi-tenant sign per public street frontage as follows: ▷80 sf max area, 20 ft max height

Table 130.36.070.1c—Community Region Area Signage Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs

Zone	Allowed Signs and Development	Standards in Community Regions
District	Building-Attached	Freestanding
	Industrial Zone Districts
I (-H or -L)	1 or more signs not exceeding a combined total of 50 sf per establishment; Roofine is max height	Individual Establishment: No more than 1 sign per public street frontage as follows: ▷50 sf max area, 12 ft max height
		Integrated Development: 1 multi-tenant sign per public street frontage as follows: ▷80 sf max area, 20 ft max height
R&D	2 signs per establishment, 80 sf max area; Roofine is max height	No more than 1 sign per public street frontage for individual establishment or integrated development: ▷50 sf max area, 12 ft max height

Table 130.36.070.1d—Community Region Area Signage Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs

Zone	Allowed Signs and Development	Standards in Community Regions
District	Building-Attached	Freestanding
	Miscellaneous Zone Districts
TPZ	Not allowed	2 non-illuminated signs per parcel: ▷32 sf max area each, 12 ft max height
RF (-H or -L)	1 or more signs not exceeding a combined total of 50 sf per structure; Roofine is max height	No more than 1 sign per public street frontage as follows: ▷60 sf max area, 12 ft max height
OS, TC	Not allowed	Not allowed
Specifc Plan (SP) Zones	Specifc Plan (SP) sign standards or 1 or more signs per establishment not exceeding a maximum sign area of 50 sf (roofine is max height), whichever is stricter.	Specifc Plan (SP) sign standards or not more than 1 sign per public street frontage as follows: ▷60 sf max area, 12 ft max height, whichever is stricter.

Table 130.36.070.2a—Rural Area Signage Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs

Zone District	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas
	Building- Attached		Freestanding
		Number Allowed	Max. Area	Max. Height	Specifc Reg.
	Residential	and Agricultural Zone Districts
R1 R20K R1A R2A R3A RE (-5 or -10)	Not allowed (Except in RE-10 in rural areas)	1 non-illuminated sign per subdivision or neighborhood	12 sf	8 feet	See Section 130.36.070
RM	Not allowed	1 non-illuminated sign per subdivision or neighborhood	12 sf	8 feet
RL (10-160)	1 or more signs not exceeding a combined total of 50 sf per establishment; Max height is 6 feet above the roofine	1 non-illuminated sign per parcel	12 sf	12 feet

LA	Not allowed	1 non-illuminated sign per parcel	12 sf	12 feet
PA	1 or more signs not exceeding a combined total of 50 sf, per establishment; Max height is 6 feet above the roofine	1 non-illuminated sign per parcel	16 sf	12 feet
AG	1 or more signs not exceeding a combined total of 50 sf, per establishment; Max height is 6 feet above the roofine	2 non-illuminated signs per parcel	32 sf	12 feet

Table 130.36.070.2b—Rural Area Signage Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs

==> picture [531 x 369] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas
Zone
District Building- Freestanding
Attached
Commercial Zone Districts
Individual Establishment:
No more than 1 sign per public street frontage as
follows:
▷ First street frontage: 50 sf max area, 12 ft max
height
CC 1 or more signs per establishment based on floor ▷ Other street frontage(s): 30 sf max area, 8 ft max
CG area as follows: height
CL • < 10,000 sf floor area = 50 sf max sign area
CM • 10,001—25,000 sf floor area = 75 sf max sign area Integrated Development:
CRU • > 25,001 sf floor area = 100 sf max sign area 1 multi-tenant sign per public street frontage as
follows:
▷ First street frontage: 80 sf max area, 20 ft max
height
▷ Other street frontage(s): 40 sf max area, 10 ft
height limit
Individual Establishment:
No more than 1 sign per public street frontage as
follows:
▷ First street frontage: 50 sf max area, 12 ft max
height
▷ Other street frontage(s): 30 sf max area, 8 ft max
1 or more signs not exceeding a combined total of 50 height
CPO sf per establishment;
Roofline is max height Integrated Development:
1 multi-tenant sign per public street frontage as
follows:
▷ First street frontage: 80 sf max area, 20 ft max
height
▷ Other street frontage(s): 40 sf max area, 10 ft max
height
----- End of picture text -----

Table 130.36.070.2c—Rural Area Signage Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs

Zone	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas
District	Building-Attached	Freestanding
	Industrial Zone Districts
I (-H or -L)	1 or more signs not exceeding a combined total of 50 sf per establishment; Roofine is max height	Individual Establishment: No more than 1 sign per public street frontage: ▷50 sf max area, 12 ft max height
		Integrated Development: 1 multi-tenant sign per public street frontage: ▷80 sf max area, 20 ft max height

2 signs per establishment; No more than 1 sign per public street frontage for 80 sf max area; individual establishment or integrated development: Roofline is max height ▷ 50 sf max area, 12 ft max height

R&D

Table 130.36.070.2d—Rural Area Signage Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs

Zone	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas
District	Building-Attached	Freestanding
	Miscellaneous Zone Districts
FR TPZ	Not allowed	2 non-illuminated signs per parcel: ▷32 sf max area each, 12 ft max height
RF (-H or -L)	1 or more signs not exceeding a combined total of 50 sf per establishment; Max height is 6 feet above the roofine	1 non-illuminated sign per parcel: ▷16 sf max area, 12 ft max height
OS TC	Not allowed	Not allowed

Table 130.36.070.3—Sign Standards for Home Occupation Signs

Zone District	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas	Allowed Signs and Development Standards in Rural Areas
	Building-Attached Signs				Freestanding Signs
	Number Allowed	Max. Area	Max. Height	Location	Number Allowed	Max. Area	Max. Height	Location
R1 R20K R1A R2A R3A RM	1 sign per home occupation	2 sf	N/A	Adjacent to front entrance		Not allowed
RE (-5 or-10) RM Agricul- ture and Resource Zones	1 sign per home occupation	2 sf	N/A	Adjacent to front entrance	2 signs	12 sf each	6 feet	1 adjacent to residence, 1 within front setback

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

Sec. 130.36.080 - Permit Requirements and Review Procedures.

This Section describes permit requirements and review procedures applicable to all signage in the unincorporated Community Regions, Rural Centers and Rural Regions of the County. Signs proposed within a Community Region or Rural Center with County adopted local sign standards shall conform to those standards.

Sign Permit Required. Planning Sign Permits shall be required for specified types of permanent signs prior to erection, relocation, alteration, or replacement, as listed in Table 130.36.080.1 (Planning Sign Permits and Review Authority) below in this Section, unless otherwise exempted by this Chapter. Planning Sign Permits shall be processed in accordance with Chapter 130.52 (Permit Requirements, Procedures, Decisions, and Appeals) in Article 5 (Planning Permit Processing) of this Title.

No planning approvals shall be required for general maintenance of existing conforming signs or replacement of a conforming sign face (including message) when the area of the sign is not being changed, subject to Section 130.36.020 (General Sign Requirements) above in this Chapter.

2.

Sign Permit(s) shall be required as part of the review of any discretionary application that includes proposed signage. The Sign Permit shall be in addition to the discretionary application or permit.

3.

Sign Permits are not required for the display of temporary signs. However, temporary signs shall be consistent with the development standards and time duration limits established in this Chapter.

B.

Uniform Sign Program Required. A Development Plan Permit (PD) shall be required for all new or modified Uniform Sign Programs as shown on Table 130.36.080.1 (Planning Sign Permits and Review Authority). A Uniform Sign Program shall be required for all new multi-tenant shopping centers, office parks, and other multi-tenant, mixed-use, or otherwise integrated developments of three or more separate tenants/uses that share structures, public spaces, landscape, and/or parking facilities where deviations from the development standards of this Chapter are requested. A Uniform Sign Program provides a process for the County's review of, and decisions related to, requests for signs for multi-tenant projects. The Uniform Sign Program allows for the integration of a project's signs with the design of the structures to achieve a unified architectural statement and to approve common sign regulations for multi-tenant projects. The Zoning Administrator is typically the decision-making authority for Uniform Sign Programs. However, if part of an application is reviewed and decided by the Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors, the Uniform Sign Program shall be decided by same higher-level Review Authority in conjunction with other entitlements. Deviations from the sign standards in Section 130.36.070 (Sign Development and Design Standards) above in this Chapter are allowed through the Uniform Sign Program. Standard procedures for application submittal, review, decision, and appeal are outlined in Chapter 130.52 (Permit Requirements, Procedures, Decisions, and Appeals) in Article 5 (Planning Permit Processing) of this Title.

C.

U.S. Highway 50-Oriented Signs. A Design Review Permit shall be required for all proposed new or remodeled signs within 100 feet of the right-of-way or designed for visibility from U.S. Highway 50. The approval of a Design Review Permit is a ministerial project pursuant to CEQA when in compliance with adopted standards set forth in Section 130.36.070.J (Standards for U.S. Highway 50-Oriented Signs) above in this Chapter. If part of an application is reviewed and decided by the Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors, the Design Review Permit shall be decided by the same higher-level Review Authority in conjunction with other entitlements. Standard procedures for application submittal, review, decision, and appeal are outlined Chapter 130.52 (Permit Requirements, Procedures, Decisions, and Appeals) in Article 5 (Planning Permit Processing) of this Title.

D.

Subdivision Sign Permit. Off-site subdivision signs are subject to approval of an Administrative Permit. The applicant shall submit, as a requirement of the application, a map identifying the proposed location of the sign. Site Plans shall illustrate sign type, number, location, size, colors and materials, and type of illumination (if any) for all off-site subdivision signs. As part of the permitting process, all off-site subdivision signs shall be reviewed by the County to ensure their locations are approved within or outside the County's right-of-way and that they are consistent with the standards under Section 130.36.070.I (Standards for Off-Site Subdivision Signs) above in this Chapter.

E.

Variances. Requests for individual signs not associated with an approved Uniform Sign Program that deviate from the development standards of this Chapter shall require processing of a variance application as detailed in Section 130.36.020.G.

F.

Community Sign Program Required. A Design Review Permit shall be required for all new or modified Community Sign Programs. A Community Sign Program shall be required for all new or modified community directional, identity, event, and industry association signs located on private property or County-maintained roads or rights-of-way (per Section 130.36.110 (Signs on County Property) in this Chapter) that are part of a County-authorized and coordinated program to provide the public with information and guidance on topics including, but not limited to, public accommodations, facilities, commercial services, events, and points of scenic, cultural, historic, educational, recreational, religious interest, and other local community destinations.

G.

Review Procedures.

1.

Method of Application. An application for a Sign Permit, Uniform Sign Program, Community Sign Program, U.S. Highway 50Oriented Sign Permit, or Variance shall be made on the form(s) prescribed by the Planning Division. The application shall be accompanied by any fees as specified by Board resolution.

2.

Application Review Procedures, Decisions, and Appeals. The application review procedures, decisions, and appeals of decisions for Sign Permit, Uniform Sign Programs, Community Sign Program, U.S. Highway 50-Oriented Sign Permits, or Variances shall be as provided in Chapter 130.52 (Permit Requirements, Procedures, Decisions, and Appeals) in Article 5 (Planning Permit Processing) of this Title.

Table 130.36.080.1—Planning Sign Permits and Review Authority

Planning Permit Required: A: Administrative Permit DR: Design Review Permit V: Variance PD: Development Plan Permit	P: Allowed Use—No Planning Permit Required1	D: Planning and Building Department Director ZA: Zoning Administrator PC: Planning Commission BOS: Board of Supervisors	D: Planning and Building Department Director ZA: Zoning Administrator PC: Planning Commission BOS: Board of Supervisors	D: Planning and Building Department Director ZA: Zoning Administrator PC: Planning Commission BOS: Board of Supervisors
SIGN TYPE1		REVIEW AUTHORITY
		D	ZA	PC	BOS
Replacement2	P
Freestanding or Building—Attached Signs		A
Temporary On-Site Signs including, but not limited to: New Apartments, Grand Opening Banners, Products/Services, Special Events	P
Of-Site Signs:4 New Subdivisions		A
U.S. Hwy 50-Oriented Signs		DR
Exempt Signs3	P
Home Occupation Signs	P
Individual Signs Exceeding Development Standards but Not Part of New or Amended PD Permit or Uniform Sign Program			V
Signs on Public Property		A
Uniform Sign Programs:

New or Modifed Uniform Sign Program		PD
• Construction of new or replacement signs as part of an approved program	P
Community Sign Programs: (Directional, Identity, Event, Industry Association)
• New or Modifed Community Sign Program		DR
• Construction of new or replacement signs as part of an approved program	P
Sign(s) Proposed as Part of a Discretionary Project	Permitted with Discretionary Project
NOTES: 1 All allowed signs may be subject to a Building Permit, as required by current Building Code. All signs requiring a Building Permit shall be consistent with the requirements of this Chapter. 2 No planning approvals shall be required for general maintenance of existing conforming signs or replacement of a legal, nonconforming sign face. 3 Signs exempt from a Planning Sign Permit as specifcally listed or described in Section 130.36.030.All signage shall be consistent with the requirements of this Chapter. 4 All other of-site commercial signage is prohibited, unless expressly allowed in Chapter 130.36.

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

Sec. 130.36.090 - Prohibited Signs.

A.

General Prohibition. All off-site commercial signage on private property is prohibited unless as otherwise allowed in this Chapter. Existing off-site signs (e.g., billboards) are considered nonconforming signs as regulated by Section 130.36.100 (Illegal, Abandoned, and Nonconforming Signs) below in this Chapter. Off-site signs on County property are regulated by Section 130.36.110 (Signs on County Property) below in this Chapter.

B.

The signs listed in this Section are prohibited in all zones. Except as otherwise specifically noted herein, these prohibitions apply in all unincorporated Community Regions and rural areas of the County.

1.

Any sign not specifically allowed by this Chapter.

2.

Electronic (digital) message signs as defined herein, with the following exceptions:

a.

Motor vehicle fuel pricing signs as defined in Section 130.36.030.B.12;

b.

Signs displaying time, date, temperature, or weather information;

c.

Public service message signs on property leased or owned by a Community Services District established under Title 3, Division 6 of the Government Code.

d.

Relocation or digital conversion of off-site billboards in accordance with Business and Professions Code Section 5412.

Billboards as defined herein. This does not prohibit relocation agreements as authorized by state law (California Business and Professions Code Section 5412).

4.

Roof signs or signs placed above the roofline in Community Regions.

5.

Animated, flashing, scrolling, digital or video screen signs where the message is displayed for less than eight seconds (dwell time) before changing to a different message.

6.

Pennants, banners, balloons, or other paraphernalia composed of paper, cloth, or other flexible material, except as otherwise allowed.

7.

Pole signs except where permitted within designated rural areas of the County, consistent with standards listed in Table 130.36.070.2 (Rural Area Signage Standards for Permanent On-Site Signs) above in this Chapter.

8.

Signs placed on the public right-of-way or affixed to an element or structure on the public right-of-way, or located on a publicly owned tree, fence, or utility pole or otherwise posted on public property, except where required by a governmental agency.

9.

Inflatable balloon signs, including, but not limited to, individual balloons, balloon strings, and other inflatable objects made of a flexible material and inflated so as to be lighter than air.

10.

Signs painted upon a fence or freestanding wall.

11.

Mobile billboard advertising displays traversing upon or parked on a public right-of-way for the primary purpose of general advertising for hire.

12.

Movable signs with a commercial message.

13.

Signs attached to light standards (poles), traffic control devices, or utility poles.

14.

Signs affixed to a structure or property not owned by the person or entity installing the signs, unless authorized by the written consent of the owner of the structure or property. For purposes of this provision, "owner" means any person or entity holding the immediate right of possession and control.

Signs that are dilapidated, abandoned, or in disrepair or dangerous condition.

16.

Window signs that exceed 25 percent of any window.

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

Sec. 130.36.100 - Illegal, Abandoned, and Nonconforming Permanent Signs.

A.

Illegal Permanent Signs. Illegal permanent signs shall be abated by the property owner or person responsible for installing or maintaining the sign. Should the property owner or responsible person not abate the illegal sign, the sign may be abated via any remedy authorized under this Code.

1.

The duty to abate arises upon notice by the Planning Director. Such notice shall give such parties a 30-day opportunity to cure by conformance to current law and/or current permit, to abate by removal or other remedial action.

2.

Such notices may be appealed in the same manner as any other sign-related decision. However, when a sign poses a serious and immediate threat to public health or safety by virtue of its physical condition, without consideration of the message thereon, then the threat may be summarily abated by court order, or an emergency abatement may be summarily abated by the County with the reasonable cost of abatement chargeable to the sign owner and/or property owner.

Official notices required or authorized by law.

3.

Signs placed by the County in furtherance of its governmental functions, including the dissemination of its own speech and information to the public.

4.

Signs allowable under Subsections E and F below in this Section.

5.

Off-site digital general advertising for hire signs; such signs are only allowed by written agreement with the County.

D.

Temporary Signs Displaying Noncommercial Message. In areas qualifying as traditional public forums, private persons may display noncommercial message signs thereon, provided that such signs conform to all of the following:

1.

The signs must be personally held by a person or personally attended by one or more persons. "Personally attended" means that a person is physically present within five feet of the sign at all times.

2.

The maximum aggregate size of all signs held or personally attended by a single person is six square feet. For purposes of this rule, apparel and other aspects of personal appearance do not count toward the maximum aggregate sign area.

3.

The maximum size of any one sign which is held or personally attended by two or more persons acting in concert is 50 square feet.

4.

The sign must have no more than two display faces and may not be inflatable, inflated or air-activated.

5.

In order to serve the County's interests in traffic flow and safety, persons displaying signs under this Section may not stand in any vehicular traffic or bicycle lane, and persons displaying signs on public sidewalks must give at least five feet width clearance for pedestrians to pass by. Persons holding signs may not obstruct the "cross visibility area," as defined in the Design Improvement Standards Manual.

6.

The message substitution policy as described in Section 130.36.020 (General Sign Requirements) above in this Chapter, applies only to traditional public forum areas.

E.

Off-Site Signage in Designated Rural Areas. Within designated rural areas of the County, off-site commercial signs are allowed with limitations listed or approved by the Board or Planning Commission as outlined below.

1.

Board approved Industry Association Sign as part of Community Sign Programs, as listed in Section 130.36.060 (Community Sign Programs) above in this Chapter.

a.

Signs located on County property along the street shall be located so as not to obscure vision or create other public safety hazards as determined by the Director of the Department of Transportation based on the requirements of the County DISM; and

b.

Signs located on County property may shall be subject to an encroachment permit issued by the County Department of Transportation.

F.

Relocation of Off-Site Billboards. Notwithstanding the prohibition on billboards in Subsection 130.36.090.B.2 (Prohibited Signs) above in this Chapter, pursuant to state law, the Board may approve agreements for relocation of existing off-site general advertising for hire (e.g., billboards) to County-owned land.

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

Sec. 130.36.120 - Definitions.

As used in this Chapter, the terms below are defined as follows:

"Abandoned Sign" means any display or sign remaining in place or not maintained which no longer identifies an ongoing business, product, or service available on the premises where the display or sign is located or where the structure or establishment to which the display or sign is related has ceased operation, or have not been updated upon occupancy of a new establishment.

"A-Frame Sign" means a portable sign capable of standing without support or attachment and sometimes referred to as a "sandwich board." Such signs typically resemble the letter "A" but may also resemble the letters "T" (upright or inverted) or "U" or "H" and are hinged or designed to fold up for easy moving by hand. See Figure 130.36.120.A (A-Frame Sign) in this Section.

Figure 130.36.120.A A-Frame Sign

==> picture [106 x 124] intentionally omitted <==

"Air-Activated Sign" means an attention attracting device that is activated by wind or forced air, portions of which flutter or flap in the air; examples are known by commercial names such as sky puppet, air puppets, air crows, air dancers and wind

dancers; the definition includes functionally similar devices.

"Animated Sign" means any sign that uses movement or change of lighting to depict action or movement of visual elements.

"Banner" means any sign made of cloth, lightweight fabric, bunting, plastic, vinyl, paper or similar material that is permanently or temporarily placed on, or affixed to, real property in a location where the message or image displayed is visible to the public from outside of the building or structure. A flag, as defined, shall not be considered a banner.

"Billboard" means a sign which meets any one or more of the following criteria:

1.

A sign structure which is used for the display of off-site commercial messages;

2.

A sign structure which constitutes a principal, separate, or secondary use, as opposed to an accessory use, of the parcel on which it is located;

3.

An outdoor sign used as general advertising for hire, e.g., on which display space is made available to parties other than the owner or operator of the sign or occupant of the parcel (not including those who rent space from the sign owner, when such space is on the same parcel or is the same development as the sign), in exchange for a rent, fee, or other consideration; or

4.

An off-site outdoor advertising sign on which space is leased or rented.

"Blade/Bracket Sign" means a small, pedestrian-oriented sign that projects perpendicular from a structure (including fences, posts, and railings).

"Building-Attached Sign" means a sign placed on a wall or canopy, projecting from a wall, or hung underneath a canopy or overhang structure, or placed in a window. This sign category includes wall signs, canopy signs, projecting signs, under canopy signs, and window signs as defined herein. See Figure 130.36.120.B (Building-Attached Signs) below in this Section.

Figure 130.36.120.B Building-Attached Signs

==> picture [346 x 124] intentionally omitted <==

"Building Facade" means all walls, or portions thereof, of a building's exterior which is exposed to public view, excepting alleys.

"Can Sign" means a type of sign which contains all the text and/or logo symbols within a single enclosed cabinet that is mounted to a wall or other surface. Such sign structures typically use slide in panels to display the message to the public. See Figure 130.36.120.C (Can Sign) in this Section.

Figure 130.36.120.C Can Sign

==> picture [122 x 103] intentionally omitted <==

"Canopy Sign" means any sign that is a part of or attached to an awning, canopy, or other fabric, plastic, or structural protective cover (excluding a marquee) over an actual or faux door, entrance, window, or outdoor service area. See Figure 130.36.120.B (Building-Attached Signs) above in this Section.

"Changeable Copy Sign" means a sign or portion thereof with characters, letters, or illustrations that can be changed or rearranged manually without altering the face or surface of the sign. See Figure 130.36.120.D (Changeable Copy Sign) in this Section.

Figure 130.36.120.D Changeable Copy Sign

==> picture [124 x 104] intentionally omitted <==

"Channel Letter Sign" means a type of sign comprising individual letters that are independently mounted to a wall or other surface with a covered face. The "air space" between the letters is the building facade. A logo may also be considered a channel letter provided it is clearly distinguishable from other sign elements. See Figure 130.36.120.E (Channel Letter Sign) in this Section.

Figure 130.36.120.E Channel Letter Sign

==> picture [121 x 103] intentionally omitted <==

"Commercial Directional Sign" means a sign whose primary function is to provide directional information for an establishment offering retail sales to the general public, when the establishment does not have access through frontage on a county road.

"Commercial Message" means any sign, wording, logo, or other representation that names or advertises an establishment, product, service, or other commercial activity, primarily concerns the economic interest of the message sponsor or audience, or which proposes a commercial transaction.

"Community Sign" means a sign located on private property or County-maintained roads or rights-of-way (per Section 130.36.110 (Signs on County Property) above in this Chapter) that is part of a County-authorized and coordinated program to provide the public with information and guidance on topics including, but not limited to, public accommodations, facilities, commercial services, events, and points of scenic, cultural, historic, educational, recreational, religious interest, and other local community destinations as designated and recognized by a Community Sign Program.

"Construction Site Sign" means a temporary sign mounted or displayed on the site of a construction project during the time when actual physical construction is ongoing.

"Copy" means the words, letters, numbers, figures, designs, or other symbolic representations incorporated into the visually communicative elements of a sign.

"Design and Improvement Standards Manual (DISM)" means the County document adopted on May 27, 1986, by Resolution No. 128-90, including subsequent revisions, that contains development standards for specified land use and transportationrelated improvements on public and private lands for purposes of public safety and consistency with generally accepted engineering practices.

"Digital Display" means display methods utilizing Light Emitting Diode (LED), Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), Plasma, projected images, or any functionally equivalent technology, and which is capable of automated remote or computer control to change the image, either in a "slide show" manner (series of still images), or full motion animation, or flashing, blinking or intermittent light, or any combination of them. Also known as dynamic signs, Electronic Message Center (EMC) and Commercial Electronic Variable Message Signs (CEVMS).

"Digital Sign." See "Electronic (Digital) Message Sign."

"Directional Sign" means any sign (building-attached or freestanding) intended to be permanently affixed and utilized only for the purpose of indicating the direction of any object, place, or area.

"Directory Sign" means a pedestrian-oriented sign that identifies or lists the names and locations of tenants at a multi-tenant site.

"Display Face." See "Sign Face."

"Dwell Time" means the number of seconds an electronic (digital) message is displayed before changing to a different message.

"Electronic (Digital) Message Sign" means an electronic sign, typically comprising a liquid crystal diode (LCD), light-emitting diode (LED), plasma, or other digital illuminated display that contains one or more messages. An electronic message sign is different from an illuminated sign in that the illumination of the display creates the message, rather than an internal or external light source illuminating the message. Also known as Electronic Message Center (EMC). See Figure 130.36.120.F (Electronic (Digital) Message Sign).

Figure 130.36.120.F Electronic (Digital) Message Sign

==> picture [124 x 103] intentionally omitted <==

"Establishment" means any legal use of land, other than long-term residential, which involves the use of structures subject to the Building Code. By way of example and not limitation, this definition includes businesses, tenants and or lessees, factories, farms, schools, hospitals, hotels, and motels, offices and libraries, but does not include single-family homes, mobile homes, residential apartments, or residential condominiums. Multi-units housing developments are considered establishments during the time of construction; individual units are not within the meaning of establishment once a certificate of occupancy has been issued or full-time residency begins.

"Exempt Sign" means a sign that is not subject to a plan check approval or a sign that is not subject to a sign permit.

"Feather Banner" means a pole (typically flexible) with an attachment generally made of fabric and in the shape of a feather or quill, used to attract attention and/or present some visually communicative image to public view. Also known as feather flag, quill flag and similar names.

"Flag" means any fabric, banner, or bunting containing distinctive colors, patterns, or design that displays the symbol(s) of a nation, state, local government, company, organization, belief system, idea, or other meaning.

"Freestanding Sign" means a permanent sign that is self-supporting in a fixed location and not attached to a building. A freestanding sign can be connected or attached to a sign structure, fence, or wall that is not an integral part of a building. Freestanding signs include, but are not limited to, monument/pylon signs and pole signs as described in this Section.

"General Advertising for Hire" means the enterprise of advertising or promoting other businesses, establishments or causes using methods of advertising, in contrast to self-promotion or on-site advertising. The term applies regardless of whether a given message is commercial, noncommercial, or "public service" in nature. Also known as general advertising.

"Highway-Oriented (U.S. Highway 50 only) Sign" means an on-site freestanding sign structure (single or multi-tenant identification) located on property within 100 feet of the edge of the right-of-way or otherwise designed to be visible from U.S. Highway 50 that is outside of the officially designated scenic corridor for which a U.S. Highway 50-Oriented Sign Permit is issued.

"Home Occupation Sign" means a sign located at a residence advertising a business or profession legally conducted in the residence.

"Illegal Sign" means a sign which is not lawfully permitted in accordance with current adopted regulations.

"Illuminated Sign" means a sign with an artificial light source incorporated internally or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign; includes signs made from neon or other gas tube(s) that are bent to form letters, symbols, or other shapes. An illuminated sign excludes electronic (digital) message signs, which are separately defined.

"Inflatable Balloon Sign" means a sign consisting of balloons and inflatables made of latex, metallic and/or cloth material, regardless of the size that is used, for the purpose of attracting attention.

"Integrated Development" means a property or combination of properties containing three or more separate tenants and which share common parking, driveway, and access areas.

"Legal Nonconforming Sign" means a sign that was lawfully erected but that does not comply with the provisions of this Chapter.

"Marquee" means any permanent roofed structure projecting over public property or right-of-way attached to and supported by a building.

"Mobile Billboard" means a vehicle which parks upon public land or traverses upon public roads for the primary purpose of displaying general advertising for hire.

"Monument Sign" means a freestanding sign detached from a building and having a support structure with a base that appears to be solid and is constructed of permanent material, such as concrete block or brick. This sign type also includes multi-tenant signs. See Figure 130.36.120.G (Monument Sign) in this Section.

Figure 130.36.120.G Monument Sign

==> picture [102 x 185] intentionally omitted <==

"Motor Vehicle Fuel Pricing Signs" means signs identifying the brand, type, octane rating, etc., of motor vehicle fuel for sale, as required by state law.

"Movable Sign" means a sign that can easily be moved from one place to another, typically by mounting it on a vehicle or trailer, or by attaching wheels to it.

"Mural" means a painted or otherwise attached or adhered image or representation on the exterior of a structure that is visible from a public right-of-way or neighboring property, does not contain commercial advertisement (is noncommercial in nature), and is designed in a manner so as to serve as public art, to enhance public space, and to provide inspiration.

"Noncommercial Message" means a message that addresses topics of public debate and concern. By way of example and not limitation, such messages often express opinions and views on subjects such as religion, politics, commentary on the arts or sports, or protests.

"Off-Site Sign" means any sign not located on the premises of the establishment indicated or advertised by such sign. This definition shall include, but not be limited to, billboards, poster panels, painted bulletins, and other similar advertising displays.

"On-Site Sign" means a sign directing attention to an establishment, commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold, or offered upon the same property as that upon which the sign is maintained.

"Painted Sign" means a sign that comprises only paint applied on a structure.

"Pennant" means any lightweight plastic, fabric, or other material, whether or not containing a message of any kind, attached to a rope, wire, or string, usually in a series, designed to move in the wind and attract attention.

"Permanent Sign" means a sign that is entirely constructed out of durable materials, is fixed in place, and is intended to exist for more than 120 days.

"Pole Sign" means a freestanding sign detached from a building and supported by one or more structural elements that are either: (a) architecturally dissimilar to the design of the sign; or (b) less than one-quarter the width of the sign face. Pole signs do not include traffic signs (as defined in Section 130.36.030—Exemptions) or monument signs. See Figure 130.36.120.H (Pole Sign) in this Section. (Freestanding signs constructed with poles as the substructure where the poles are encased to incorporate design features are not considered pole signs.)

Figure 130.36.120.H Pole Sign

==> picture [108 x 175] intentionally omitted <==

"Portable Sign" means any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent structure, or a sign designed to be transported. Portable signs include, but are not limited to, signs designed to be transported by means of wheels, A-frame signs, menu and sandwich board signs, and umbrellas used for advertising. Clothing or other aspects of personal appearance are not within this definition.

"Projecting Sign" means a sign attached to and extending outward from the face of a structure. Includes, but is not limited to, a blade/bracket sign, hanging or projecting sign, or marquee sign. See Figure 130.36.120.B (Building-Attached Signs) above in this Section.

"Pushpin Letter Sign" means a type of sign comprising individual letters that are independently mounted to a wall or other surface. Such sign may be illuminated by an external light source, such as pendant lighting. The "air space" between the letters is the building facade. See Figure 130.36.120.I (Pushpin Sign) in this Section.

Figure 130.36.120.I Pushpin Sign

==> picture [121 x 104] intentionally omitted <==

"Pylon Sign" means a freestanding sign detached from a building and having a support structure with a base that appears to be solid and is constructed of permanent material, such as concrete block or brick. See Figure 130.36.120.J (Pylon Sign) in this Section.

Figure 130.36.120.J Pylon Sign

==> picture [102 x 175] intentionally omitted <==

"Raceway (Sign)" means a sign channel for protecting and holding electrical wires and cables, especially a metal rectangular tube used for such purposes.

"Real Estate Sign" means a temporary sign advertising the sale or lease or other economic transaction involving real property. All signs described in Civil Code Section 713 are within this definition.

"Roof Sign" means a sign erected, constructed, painted, or placed upon or over a roof or parapet wall of a building and which is wholly or partly supported by the building or roof structure.

"Sign" means any device, structure, fixture, or placard displaying graphics, symbols, and/or written copy for the primary purpose of communicating with the public. The following do not fall within the definition of a "sign" for purposes of this Chapter:

a.

Architectural or decorative features of buildings (not including lettering, trademarks, or moving parts).

b.

Fireworks, candles, and artificial lighting. The legal use of fireworks, candles, and artificial lighting not otherwise regulated by this Chapter.

c.

Graphic images that are visible only from above, such as those visible only from airplanes or helicopters, but only if not visible from the street surface or public right-of-way.

d.

Gravestones and grave markers.

e.

Holiday and cultural observance decorations that are on display for not more than 45 calendar days per year (per parcel or use) and which do not include commercial advertising messages.

f.

Interior signs or other visual communicative devices that are located entirely within a building or other enclosed structure and are not visible from the exterior thereof or located at least three feet from the window on the interior of the structure.

Manufacturers' marks on tangible products that identify the maker, seller, provider, or product and which customarily remain attached to the product even after sale.

h.

Mass transit graphic images mounted on trains or duly licensed mass transit vehicles that legally pass through the County.

i.

Murals, painted or otherwise attached or adhered image or representation on the exterior of a structure that is visible from a public right-of-way or neighboring property, does not contain commercial advertisement (is noncommercial in nature), and is designed in a manner so as to serve as public art, to enhance public space, and to provide inspiration.

j.

News racks and newsstands.

k.

Personal appearance items or devices of personal apparel, decoration, or appearance, including, but not limited to, tattoos, makeup, wigs, costumes, and masks.

l.

Shopping carts, golf carts, and horse-drawn carriages.

m.

Symbols embedded in architecture such as symbols of noncommercial organizations or concepts including, but not limited to, religious or political symbols, when such are permanently integrated into the structure of a building; the definition also includes foundation stones and cornerstones.

n.

Vehicle and vessel insignia as shown on street-legal vehicles and properly licensed watercraft including, but not limited to, license plates, license plate frames, registration insignia, noncommercial messages, messages relating to the business of which the vehicle or vessel is an instrument or tool (not including general advertising for hire), and messages relating to the proposed sale, lease, or exchange of the vehicle or vessel.

o.

Vending machines that do not display off-site commercial messages or general advertising messages.

"Sign Face" means that area or portion of a sign on which copy is intended to be placed.

"Sign for Drive In/Drive Through Uses" means a sign installed in a drive-through facility and oriented so as to be visible primarily by drive-through customers.

"Sign Twirler" means a human being, or a robotic imitation of a human being, displaying signs visible from the public right-ofway by holding the physical sign and twirling or spinning for the purpose of attracting public attention. Also known as sign spinner.

"Subdivision Sign" means a temporary or otherwise limited-term sign for the purpose of providing direction for vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic to the new home sale of multiple lots or dwelling units with a single builder within a master planned community, including both single-family and multi-family for-sale products. All other home sales signs are included within the definition of real estate sign.

"Temporary Promotional Sign" means any sign displaying a commercial/promotional message, pennant, streamer, banner, beacon, bunting material, or other similar nonpermanent sign made of paper, cloth, canvas, lightweight fabric, or other non-

rigid material, with or without frames, whether displayed as freestanding, wall-mounted, pole-mounted, window-mounted, or painted, or any other method of attachment, or beacon, which is intended to be displayed for a limited period of time.

"Temporary Sign" means a sign used for the public display of visual messages or images, which is easily installed with or without common hand tools, and which is not intended or suitable for long-term or permanent display (e.g., less than 120 days), due to lightweight or flimsy construction materials. Examples include, but are not limited to, A-frame signs, banners, pennants, streamers, or similar nonpermanent signs made of paper, cloth, canvas, lightweight fabric, or other non-rigid material, with or without frames. Any device that meets the definition of a "structure" in the building code is not within this definition.

"Tourist Industry" means commercial businesses that provide goods and/or services (such as attractions and recreation; accommodations; restaurants and retail; transportation, travel and rental car services) for people traveling for pleasure (e.g., vacation, recreation, sightseeing).

"Under Canopy Sign" means a pedestrian-oriented sign hung from underneath an awning, canopy or overhang structure/breezeway. See Figure 130.36.120.B (Building-Attached Signs) above in this Section.

"Vehicle Sign" means a sign mounted upon a vehicle which may legally be parked on or move on public roads as well as a sign mounted upon a water vessel which may legally move upon the waters.

"Wall Sign" means a sign attached to or erected against the wall of a building or structure with the exposed face of the sign parallel to the plane of such wall. See Figure 130.36.120.B (Building-Attached Signs) above in this Section.

"Window Sign" means any permanent or temporary sign, picture, letter, character, or combination thereof, designed to communicate information about an activity, business, commodity, event, sale, or service that is placed upon and/or inside and/or within three feet of a window for the purpose of being visible from the exterior of the window. See Figure 130.36.120.B (Building-Attached Signs) above in this Section.

(Ord. No. 5242, § 1, 9-16-2025)

CHAPTER 130.37. - NOISE STANDARDS

Sec. 130.37.010 - Content.

This Chapter complies with General Plan Goal 6.5 (Acceptable Noise Levels), and supplements County Code Chapter 9.16 (Noise) by establishing standards concerning acceptable noise levels for both noise-sensitive land uses and for noisegenerating land uses.

Sec. 130.37.020 - Exemptions.

The following noise sources shall be exempt from the standards of this Chapter:

A.

Activities conducted in public parks, public playgrounds, and public or private school grounds, including but not limited to school athletic and school entertainment events, providing an amplified sound system is not required or used.

B.

The use of any mechanical device, apparatus, or equipment related to or connected with emergency activities or emergency work to protect life or property.

C.

Safety signals, warning devices, and emergency pressure relief valves properly operated and in good working order.

Noise sources associated with property maintenance, such as lawn mowers, trimmers, snow blowers, power tools in good working order, and cutting of firewood for non-commercial personal use, provided that the activities take place between the hours of eight a.m. and nine p.m. on weekdays and nine a.m. to nine p.m. on weekends and federal holidays.

E.

Noise sources associated with agricultural uses listed in Section 130.21.020 (Agricultural Zones: Matrix of Allowed Uses) in Article 2 (Zones, Allowed Uses, and Zoning Standards) of this Title that are performed consistent with the standards and practices of the agricultural industry.

F.

Noise sources associated with work performed by public or private utilities in the maintenance or modification of its facilities.

G.

Noise sources associated with public holidays, or other commonly celebrated occasions.

H.

Traffic on public roadways, railroad line operations, aircraft in flight, and any other activity where regulation thereof has been preempted by state or federal law.

I.

Construction (e.g., construction, alteration or repair activities) during daylight hours provided that all construction equipment shall be fitted with factory installed muffling devices and maintained in good working order.

Sec. 130.37.030 - Applicability.

Subject to the exemptions in Section 130.37.020 (Noise Standards, Exemptions) above in this Chapter, noise standards established in this Chapter shall apply to all noise generating uses requiring discretionary review or ministerial permits, with the exception of existing and new single-unit residential dwellings on legal lots that are not within areas governed by an Airport Comprehensive Land Use Plan. (General Plan Policy 6.5.1.4, Acceptable Noise Levels, Protection of Noise-Sensitive Development).

Sec. 130.37.040 - Definitions.

The following definitions shall apply to this Chapter:

"Acoustic Specialist" means a person trained in acoustic sampling that is qualified to measure sound levels consistent with criteria contained within this article.

"Ambient Sound Level" means the composite of normal or existing sound from all sources, measured at a given location for a specified time of the day or night.

"A-weighting" means the scale for measuring sound that de-emphasizes low and high frequencies in order to simulate human hearing; indicated as dBA.

"Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL)" means a weighted average hourly noise level over a 24 hour day used specifically for airport and aircraft noise assessment.

"Day-Night Average Sound Level (Ldn)" means the dBA for a given area during a 24-hour day with a 10dB weighting applied to nighttime sound levels.

"Decibel" means a unit of relative loudness on a logarithmic scale that runs from zero for the least perceptible sound to 140 for sound that causes pain.

"Equivalent Noise Level (Leq)" means the average energy noise level determined by averaging the cumulative noise event levels during a specific period of time and expressing it in A-weighted decibels, or dBA.

"Fixed Sound Source" means a device or machine which creates sounds while fixed or stationary, including but not limited to residential, agricultural, industrial, and commercial machinery and equipment, pumps, fans, compressors, air conditioners and refrigeration equipment, and motor vehicles operated on private property.

"Maximum Sound Level (Lmax)" means the maximum instantaneous noise level measured on a sound level meter.

"Non-Transportation Noise Source" means industrial operations, commercial land uses, outdoor recreation activities and facilities, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) units, schools, hospitals, and other outdoor land use.

"Sensitive Receptor" means a land use in which there is a reasonable degree of sensitivity to noise. Such uses include singleand multi-unit residential dwellings including frequently inhabited outbuildings, schools, hospitals, churches, rest homes, cemeteries, public libraries, and other sensitive uses as determined by the Director.

"Sound Level Meter" means an instrument meeting American National Standard Institute (ANSI) Standard S1.4A-1985 for Type 1 or Type 2 sound level meters, or an instrument and associated recording and analyzing equipment that will provide equivalent data.

"Transportation Noise Source" means traffic on public or private (non-county maintained) roadways, railroad line operations, and aircraft in flight.

Sec. 130.37.050 - Acoustic Analysis Requirements.

An acoustic analysis prepared by an acoustic specialist shall be required prior to discretionary authorization or permit approval for the following uses:

A.

New noise-generating land uses likely to exceed the performance thresholds in the Tables in Section 130.37.060 (Noise Standards) below in this Chapter when proposed in areas adjacent to sensitive receptors. Noise sources may include industrial operations, outdoor recreation facilities, outdoor concerts and events utilizing amplified sound systems, commercial land uses, fixed sound sources, and other similar uses; or

B.

New noise-sensitive land uses proposed in areas exposed to existing or projected exterior noise levels likely to exceed the thresholds in the Tables in Section 130.37.060 (Noise Standards) below in this Chapter.

Sec. 130.37.060 - Noise Standards.

The following standards shall apply to all development projects for which an acoustic analysis is required:

A.

Noise sensitive land uses affected by non-transportation noise sources shall not exceed standards set forth in Table 130.37.060.1 (Noise Level Performance Standards for Noise Sensitive Land Uses Affected by Non-Transportation Sources) below in this Section:

Table 130.37.060.1—Noise Level Performance Standards for Noise Sensitive Land Uses Affected by Non-Transportation Sources

NOISE LEVEL PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR NOISE SENSITIVE LAND USES AFFECTED BY NON-TRANSPORTATION SOURCES Noise Daytime Evening Night Level 7 a.m.—7 p.m. 7 p.m.—10 p.m. 10 p.m.—7 a.m. Descriptor

	Community/ Rural Centers	Rural Regions	Community/ Rural Centers	Rural Regions	Community/ Rural Centers	Rural Regions
Hourly Leq, dBA	55	50	50	45	45	40
Maximum level, dBA	70	60	60	55	55	50

1.

Each of the noise levels specified above shall be lowered by five dBA for simple tone noises, noises consisting primarily of unamplified speech or music, or for recurring impulsive noises. These noise level standards do not apply to residential units established in conjunction with industrial or commercial uses, such as caretaker dwellings.

2.

The Director can impose noise level standards which are up to five dBA less than those specified above, based upon a determination of existing low ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project site.

3.

The exterior noise level standard shall be applied as follows:

a.

In Community Regions, at the property line of the receiving property;

b.

In Rural Centers and Regions, at a point 100 feet away from a sensitive receptor or, if the sensitive receptor is within the Platted Lands Overlay (-PL) where the underlying land use designation is consistent with Community Region densities, at the property line of the receiving property or 100 feet away from the sensitive receptor, whichever is less; or

c.

In all areas, at the boundary of a recorded noise easement between affected properties.

B.

Transportation noise shall not exceed thresholds set forth in Table 130.37.060.2 (Noise Level Standards for Noise-Sensitive Land Uses Affected by Transportation Noise Sources) below in this Section:

Table 130.37.060.2—Noise Level Standards for Noise-Sensitive Land Uses Affected by Transportation Noise Sources

NOISE LEVEL STANDARDS FOR NOISE-SENSITIVE LAND USES AFFECTED BY TRANSPORTATION NOISE SOURCES
	Outdoor Activity Areas	Interior Spaces
Sensitive Receptor	Ldn/CNEL, dB	Ldn/CNEL, dB	Leq, dB1
Residential	60	45	-
Transient Lodging	60	45	-
Hospitals, Nursing Homes	60	45	-
Theaters, Auditoriums, Music Halls	-	-	35
Churches, Meeting Halls, Schools	60	-	40
Ofce Buildings	-	-	45
Libraries, Museums	-	-	45

Playgrounds, Neighborhood Parks 70 - -

Notes 1 As determined for a typical worst-case hour during periods of use.

1.

In Community Regions and Rural Centers:

(a)

Where the location of outdoor activity areas is not clearly defined, the exterior noise level standard shall be applied at the property line of the sensitive receptor.

(b)

For residential uses with front yards facing the identified noise source, an exterior noise level threshold of 65 dBA Ldn shall be applied at the dwelling facade in addition to the required threshold at the outdoor activity area.

2.

In Rural Regions: An exterior noise level threshold of 60 dBA Ldn shall be applied at a 100-foot radius from the dwelling on lots five acres and larger. Those lots less than five acres shall have the noise level standards applied at the property line.

3.

Where it is not possible to reduce noise levels in those outdoor activity areas limited to 60 dBA Ldn/CNEL thresholds using a practical application of the best-available noise reduction measures, an exterior noise threshold of up to 65 dBA Ldn/CNEL may be allowed provided that available exterior noise level reduction measures have been implemented and interior noise levels are in compliance with this table.

C.

Construction-related noise shall allow for exceptions to the evening and night time standards or other temporary exceedances of noise standards as may be approved by the Director, where necessary to alleviate traffic congestion and safety hazards, or where authorized by an approved permit.