Article III — Nonconforming Signs — Menlo Park Zoning Code

§ 16.92.130. Defined—Application. ¶

For the purpose of this chapter a "nonconforming sign" is one which does not conform with the provisions of this chapter but which was lawfully existing and maintained within the city prior to and at the time the ordinance codified in this section became effective, or was lawfully in existence and in use on property outside of the city on the date upon which the annexation of such property to the city was completed.

The provisions of Sections 16.92.130 through 16.92.150 apply to any lawfully existing sign which becomes nonconforming by reason of the following:

(1) The amendment of the precise zoning plan for the property on which the sign is located;
(2) The amendment of this chapter; or
(3) The annexation to the city of the property on which the sign is located. (Ord. 517 Art. I (part), 1971; Prior code § 22.6(a))

§ 16.92.140. Replacement, alteration or relocation. ¶

A nonconforming signs shall not be replaced, altered, redesigned, reconstructed or relocated unless and until the sign is made to conform with the provisions of this chapter. Ordinary maintenance and minor repairs which will not increase the normal life of the sign and which are required for safety purposes will be permitted.

(Ord. 517 Art. I (part), 1971; Prior code § 22.6(b))

§ 16.92.150. Deemed nuisance—Action. ¶

Each such nonconforming sign shall be considered a public nuisance and shall be removed or made to conform to all requirements of this chapter upon the order of the planning commission within the time specified by the planning commission. The planning commission shall make such order at or after a hearing held only after reasonable notice thereof is given to the owner of the sign and the occupant or the owner of the real property on which said sign is located. The planning commission shall fix a period within which such sign shall be removed or made to conform. Such period shall be fixed with due regard for:

(1) The original cost of such sign;
(2) The date of construction thereof;
(3) The estimated life of said sign.

Provided, however, that no such period shall exceed five years from the date of the hearing. (Ord. 517 Art. I (part), 1971; Prior code § 22.6(c))

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City of Menlo Park, CA