§ 17.48.130. Prohibited Signs

The following signs are inconsistent with the purposes and standards of this Chapter and are prohibited in all zoning districts except where noted.

A.

Awnings that are back-lit (internally illuminated) so that the awning radiates light.

B.

Cabinet (can) signs that are mounted flush against a building wall, except for corporate logos. Cabinet signs with opaque backgrounds and illuminated letters are allowed as projecting signs only.

C.

Electronic message signs except time and/or temperature signs.

D.

Signs containing statements, words, pictures, or other representations that violate Section 311 et seq. of the Penal Code of the State.

E.

Signs that imitate an official traffic sign or signal, or contain the words "stop," "go," "slow," "caution," "danger," "warning," or similar words, excepting construction signs and barricades, and except when the words are incorporated in the permanent name of a business.

F.

Signs that advertise an activity, business, service, or product no longer conducted or sold on the premises 45 days after the discontinuance or abandonment, except signs listed on, or eligible for, the City's historic sign inventory.

G.

Signs that are oriented towards the freeway.

H.

Signs that blink, flash, or move in any manner, have any portions that move, or have the appearance of moving, except for signs listed in the historic sign inventory, clocks, time and temperature displays, public service signs, and unique/creative signs allowed through the approval of a Master Sign Plan.

I.

Balloons, lighter-than-air devices, inflatable signs and objects, except as may be allowed through a Temporary Sign Permit.

J.

Banners, pennants, ribbons, spinners, streamers, or other similar devices, except as specifically allowed through a Temporary Sign Permit.

K.

Portable, folding, or similar signs, except as allowed in Title 12 of the Municipal Code.

L.

Signs mounted on the roof of a building, including mansard roofs, and similar architectural roof-like elements.

M.

Signs that are displayed on the exterior of a building and are made of materials that are impermanent and will not stand exposure to the weather.

N.

Advertisings, banners, bills, cards, notices, placards, posters, signs, stickers, or other devices designed to attract the attention of the public that are posted or otherwise affixed upon any street, street furniture, right-of-way, public sidewalk, crosswalk, curb, lamppost, fencing, hydrant, tree, alley, telephone pole, public telephone, lighting system, or other public alarm or communication system.

O.

Off-site outdoor advertising signs (billboards).

P.

Signs erected so that any portion of its surface or supports interfere with the free use of a fire escape, exit, or standpipe, or obstruct a required door, stairway, ventilator, or window.

Q.

Signs emitting audible sounds, odors, or visible matter.