Chapter 15.80
NONCONFORMING SIGNS
Sections:
15.80.010 Pre-existing nonconforming signs.
15.80.010 Pre-existing nonconforming signs.
A. Pre-Existing Permanent Nonconforming Signs. All permanent signs and sign structures which were erected and in existence prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title, and which were, at the time of such erection or establishment, in compliance with all the applicable statutes and ordinances, but which do not meet the requirements of this title, are considered pre-existing nonconforming signs. Such signs may remain on the premises upon which they are located for up to five years; provided, that such signs and sign structures are in full compliance with the safety and maintenance provisions of Sections 15.60.020 and 15.60.030; and provided, that the pre-existing nonconforming sign is not altered, modified, or changed in any way that would either require a sign permit under this code or that would be prohibited under this code. Pre-existing nonconforming signs shall either be brought into conformance with this code or shall be completely removed from the premises upon which they are located within five years from the effective date of the ordinances codified in this title. All signs which exist within the city which were nonconforming under this code and any previous sign and advertising codes must be removed immediately.
B. Pre-Existing Permanent Nonconforming Signs--Special Circumstances. No legal pre-existing permanent nonconforming sign shall be required to be removed on the sole basis of its height or size if special topographic circumstances would result in a material impairment of visibility of the sign or the owner’s or user’s ability to adequately and effectively continue to communicate to the public through the use of the sign. The owner or user may maintain the sign at the business premises and at a location necessary for continued public visibility at the height or size at which the sign was previously erected pursuant to all applicable codes, regulations and permits. Such signs shall be deemed to be in conformance with this title.
C. Pre-Existing Temporary Nonconforming Signs. All temporary signs and temporary sign structures which were erected and in existence prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title, but which do not meet the requirements of this title, shall be permitted to remain in existence notwithstanding their nonconforming character for a period of thirty days from the effective and official date of the ordinance codified in this title. Thereafter, all such signs and sign structures shall be in violation of this title, and subject to removal as in the case of any other illegal structure or use, subject to the exceptions set forth in this title.
D. Changes to Nonconforming Signs. Any changes to any pre-existing nonconforming sign or sign structure in terms of location, orientation, size, height, or use may only be made in conformance with the provisions of this title. (Ord. C-2013-04 §9(part), 2013; Ord. C-3-10 §1(Exh. A(part)), 2010. Formerly 15.11.010).
15.80.020 Abatement of signs.
Any sign that is not in conformance with this title shall be removed or brought into conformity. Abatement of signs that are not in conformance with this title shall occur consistent with Title 1. (Ord. C-2013-04 §9(part), 2013; Ord. C-3-10 §1(Exh. A(part)), 2010. Formerly 15.11.020).
15.80.030 Zoning changes.
Signs or sign structures that are made nonconforming with the provisions of this title due to a change in zoning initiated by the city, property owner or sign owner, are subject to review by the planning commission. (Ord. C-2013-04 §9(part), 2013; Ord. C-3-10 §1(Exh. A(part)), 2010. Formerly 15.11.030).