Security devices, including gate, bars, grille or other such physical barrier intended to protect and secure a building, structure or storefront from unauthorized intrusion, shall be located and designed in compliance with the following standards.
(A) Residential Zones and residential uses. Security devices on doors and windows, are prohibited in all Residential Zones and on all residential uses. Those security devices installed prior to March 21, 2016 are considered legal nonconforming, provided they were installed in compliance with Fire Code then in effect, and may remain until such time as changes, modifications, alterations or improvements which require city approval are made to the structure.
(B) Non-residential Zones. Security devices are allowed in non-residential zoning districts. Security devices on building openings which face public streets shall comply with the following standards.
(1) Interior mounted security devices. Interior mounted security devices are allowed in compliance with the following standards.
(a) The security devices shall be interior mounted, retractable or openable, and concealed from public view during business hours.
(b) Any associated mechanical equipment or housing shall be concealed from public view.
(c) The security devices shall be architecturally integrated with the design of the building.
(2) Exterior mounted or fixed, non-retractable or non-openable security devices. Exterior mounted or fixed, non-retractable or non-openable security devices are allowed pursuant to Design Review Board approval and the following standards.
(a) Security devices, bars and decorative wrought iron grillwork may be permitted for windows or other building openings.
(b) Decorative wrought iron grillwork or gates may also be permitted for doors, porches, breezeways and other building openings. Such grill-work must be openable or retractable and concealed from view during business hours.
(c) Exterior mounted security shutters are also permitted provided that such devices are retractable and are concealed from view during business hours.
(d) Security devices shall be architecturally integrated with the design of the building, shall be aesthetically attractive and shall not overwhelm or dominate the building.
(C) Installation. Security devices shall be installed in compliance with all applicable regulations of the Fire and Police Departments and the Building Division.
(D) Nonconforming security devices. Immediately upon any change, modification, alteration in the building, a new use requiring a new business license (excepting change of ownership), or discontinuation of use of the premises for more than 14 consecutive days, to which any existing nonconforming security devices relate, all such devices shall become unlawful and shall be removed or abated as provided in § 23.24.150 and the Alhambra Municipal Code.
(Ord. 4823, passed 1-22-24)