18.116.160   SIGN REGULATIONS.
   The purpose of this section is to recognize the function of signs in this Zone, to provide for their inclusion under this section of the Anaheim Municipal Code, and to regulate and control all matters relating to such signs, except the construction thereof. All definitions in Chapter 18.44 (Signs) shall apply except as listed below.
   .010   Definitions Pertaining to Signs. For the purpose of this chapter, the following abbreviations, terms, phrases and words shall be construed as specified below:
      .0101   “Animated Sign.” Any sign that uses movement or change of lighting to depict or simulate movement, action or to otherwise create a special effect or scene.
      .0102   “Area of Sign.” The area of a sign shall include the entire area within any type of perimeter or border which may enclose the outer limits of any writing, representation, emblem, logo, figure or character. The area of the sign having no such perimeter or border shall be computed by enclosing the entire area constituting the advertising message within the smallest polygon required to enclose all typographic/graphic elements, in compliance with the Design Plan.
      .0103   “Area of Sign Face.” Refers to the permitted sign copy area as shown on the Anaheim Resort Sign Standard Details on file in the Planning Department.
      .0104   “Beacon.” Any light with one or more beams directed into the atmosphere or directed at one or more points not on the same parcel as the light source; also, any light with one or more beams that rotate or move.
      .0105   “Business Information Sign.” Any informational sign (not a project identification sign) on the project premises that relates to the principal business or use of the premises upon which the sign is erected. This sign type may include signs which direct attention to a business commodity, service, or other activity which is sold, offered, or conducted on the premises upon which the sign is located, or to which it is affixed.
      .0106   “Can-Type Sign.” A box-shaped sign which has copy on the outside of its surface and is internally illuminated.
      .0107   “Canopy Sign.” Any sign that is a part of or attached to an awning, canopy, or other fabric, plastic, or structural protective cover over a door, entrance, window, or outdoor service area. A marquee sign as defined herein is not a canopy sign.
      .0108   “Cornice.” Any prominent, continuous horizontally projecting feature extending from a wall or other structure.
      .0109   “Dual-Lit Channel Letters.” Individual letters formed as a sign can structure, composed of opaque sides and transparent acrylic plastic on both the front and back of the letter. Lighting from within the sign can structure creates an illuminated face and a halo around the letterform.
      .0110   “Emitting Sign.” Any sign that releases smoke, steam, water, bubbles or other solids, liquids or gases as a device for advertising.
      .0111   “Entrance/Exit Sign.” A sign located at a driveway entrance displaying a directional symbol and/or directional copy and which may include the name and/or symbol/logo of the business.
      .0112   “Exposed Neon Sign.” A sign where the neon or argon/mercury illuminated glass tubing is visible and not shielded from view by any material or sign structure.
      .0113   “Flag.” Any fabric attached to a flagpole and containing distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols, and used as a symbol of a government or other entity.
      .0114   “Informational, Regulatory and Directional Sign System (IRD Sign System).” Any group of signs that are intentionally designed to be a unified family of signs through a consistent use of color, typography, graphics, design detailing and structural detailing.
      .0115   “Landscape Sign.” An arrangement of any plant type (flowers, shrubs, etc.), which spells out words or resembles a symbol or a figure.
      .0116   “Magnetic Sign.” A sign which is magnetically attached to a surface.
      .0117   “Noncommercial Message Sign.” A sign displaying political or social (public information) messages.
      .0118   “On-Site Directional Guidance Sign.” Any sign located on-site and not visible from the public right-of-way, giving direction for on-site pedestrian or vehicular circulation.
      .0119   “On-Site Directory Sign.” Any on-site sign exhibiting the names and locations of on-site uses and/or facilities, and intended to facilitate the movement of patrons or visitors throughout the site. The sign may display a site map.
      .0120   “Open Pan Channel Letters With Interior Neon Illumination.” Individual channel letters formed as a sign can structure with neon tubing molded to fit the interior wall of the sign can and fitted with a clear transparent face panel allowing the halo from the neon tubing to be visible through the transparent face panel.
      .0121   “Outdoor Advertising.” Advertising on any board, fence, sign device, structure or building, or the placing thereon of any poster, bill, printing, painting, device or any advertising matter of any kind whatsoever; and the pasting, posting, printing, painting, nailing or tacking or otherwise fastening of any handbill, card, banner, sign, poster, advertisement or notice of any kind upon any property or place. Said term shall not include any signs or notices posted or displayed by any public officer in the performance of a public duty or a private person in giving a legal notice.
      .0122   “Parapet Sign.” A sign attached to a vertical wall extending from and above the actual roof line and intended to visually heighten the building.
      .0123   “Pole Sign.” A sign which is affixed to one or more poles attached to the ground and which is constructed in a manner which does not fully obstruct the view of the area between the sign and the ground.
      .0124   “Raceway.” A metal box containing wiring, transformers and housings for a sign.
      .0125   “Restaurant Menu Board.” An illuminated or non-illuminated glass case which is used to display a restaurant menu. Said case may be built-in, visible through a window or affixed to the exterior building wall and shall be located immediately adjacent to the main entrance to the restaurant.
      .0126   “Reverse Pan Channel Letters with Neon Halo Illumination.” Individual letters formed as a sign can structure where the front surface is opaque and the back is open. Neon tubing is molded to fit the form of the can structure and is placed inside the can structure. The light from the neon shines out the opening in the back of the letter and reflects off the surface of the building or structure where the letter is mounted. At night, this reflection appears to be a halo around the opaque letterform.
      .0127   “Storefront.” A wall of a business containing display windows and a public entry.
      .0128   “Structure.” The supports, uprights, bracing, guy rods, cables and framework of a sign or outdoor advertising display.
      .0129   “Typeface.” The general form, structure, style, or character common to all elements comprising an alphabet.
      .0130   “Window Identification Sign.” Any sign bearing only the name and/or logo and/or address of the business occupying the premises; and, consisting of letters and/or numbers permanently affixed to the window, and made of gold leaf, paint, stencil, or other such material.
   .020   Signs - General.
      .0201   Application. Sign standards and regulations contained within this section apply to properties within the Specific Plan area.
      .0202   Administrative Provisions - Sign Regulations. The location, size, type, construction and all other matters relating to signs in the Specific Plan area shall be regulated and controlled exclusively by the provisions of this chapter except to the extent reference is expressly made in this chapter to any other provision of the Anaheim Municipal Code. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this chapter and any other provisions of the Anaheim Municipal Code so referenced herein, the provisions of this chapter shall govern and prevail. All signs and all applications therefore shall be exclusively administered by the Planning Director except those signs which may be sought in conjunction with a conditional use permit or a zone variance.
      .0203   Coordinated Sign Program. All signs on a property shall be designed as part of a coordinated architectural, informational, regulatory and directional sign system with a consistent design detailing, typeface and color system. The capital letter height of all tenant identification copy shall be the same on a single multi-tenant sign face. Multi-tenant wall signs shall either be all wall signs or all canopy signs except as provided elsewhere in this chapter for hotel/motel accessory uses. While not required, all multi-tenant signs are encouraged to consist of one consistent typeface for all tenants or one color for all sign copy
      .0204   Resolution of Inconsistent Provisions. Notwithstanding any other provision of this code to the contrary, all provisions governing signs or advertising structures of any type in this Zone shall be contained within this chapter; provided, however, the provisions of Section 18.44.170 (Temporary Signs - Special Event Permit) and Chapters 4.04 (Outdoor Advertising Signs and Structures - General) and 4.09 (Advertising of Motel and Hotel Rental Rates) of the Anaheim Municipal Code shall apply to signs and advertising structures in this Zone to the extent such provisions are not inconsistent with this chapter.
      .0205   Variances From Sign Requirements. No person shall install or maintain any sign in this zone, except as permitted herein; provided, however, that any requirements or restrictions may be waived, in whole or in part, upon such conditions as may be imposed by the Planning Commission or the City Council, by a zone variance processed and approved in accordance with all procedures, requirements and restrictions established for variances pursuant to Chapters 18.60 (Procedures) of the Anaheim Municipal Code.
      .0206   Signs Approved in Conjunction with Conditional Use Permits. Approval of any conditional use permit shall be deemed to constitute approval of any on-site signs which are otherwise permitted in the Specific Plan area unless, as part of the action approving the conditional use permit, more restrictive sign requirements are imposed.
      .0207   Legal Nonconforming Signs - General. Any sign or other advertising display or structure of whatever type or nature, other than an illegal sign, which violates or otherwise does not comply with the applicable requirements of this chapter shall be subject to compliance with the regulations prescribed herein in the time and manner hereinafter set forth.
         .01   Legal Nonconforming Signs - Continuation and Termination. Any legal nonconforming sign or sign structure in existence on the effective date of this chapter which violates or otherwise does not conform to the provisions hereof shall be removed, altered or replaced so as to conform to the requirements of this chapter (hereinafter the "abatement") in accordance with the following:
            (a)   For signage on properties adjacent to Harbor Boulevard between Interstate-5 and Orangewood Avenue and Katella Avenue between Walnut Street and Interstate-5, the signage shall be removed, altered or replaced within five (5) years after the date said sign first becomes nonconforming to the provisions of this chapter, or on or before December 31, 1999, whichever is later;
            (b)   For signage on properties other than those adjacent to Harbor Boulevard between I-5 and Orangewood Avenue and Katella Avenue between Walnut Street and I-5, or identified in Table 116-M (Real Estate Signs), the signage shall be removed, altered or replaced within eight (8) years after the date said sign first becomes nonconforming to the provisions of this chapter, or on or before December 31, 2002, whichever is later;
            (c)   For signage on properties adjacent to the south side of Orangewood Avenue; adjacent to Harbor Boulevard, south of Orangewood Avenue; adjacent to Wilken Way; and, adjacent to Chapman Avenue, the signage shall be removed, altered or replaced within fifteen (15) years after the date said sign first becomes nonconforming to the provisions or this chapter, or on or before December 31, 2019, whichever is later;
            (d)   Provided, however, in no event shall such abatement be required unless and until the owner of said sign has received not less than one (1) year's advance written notice from the Planning Director requiring the removal or alteration of sign.
         .02   Notwithstanding the foregoing:
            (a)   Any advertising display which was lawfully erected which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, but whose use has ceased, or the structure upon which the display exists has been abandoned by its owner, for a period of not less than ninety (90) days, shall be removed, altered or replaced so as to conform to the provisions of this chapter within six (6) months from the date of receipt of a written order of abatement from the Planning Director requiring such abatement. Costs incurred by the city in removing an abandoned display shall be borne by or charged to the legal owner of the real property upon which said sign is located.
            (b)   Any advertising display structure which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter which has been more than fifty percent (50%) destroyed, and the destruction is other than facial copy replacement, and said structure cannot be repaired within thirty (30) days of the date of its destruction shall be removed, altered or replaced so as to conform to the provisions of this chapter within six (6) months from the date of receipt of a written order of abatement from the Planning Director requiring such abatement.
            (c)   Any advertising display which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, whose owner, outside of a change of copy, requests permission to remodel and remodels that advertising display, or expands or enlarges the building or intensifies the land use upon which the advertising display is located, and the display is affected by the construction, enlargement, or remodeling, or the cost of construction, enlargement or remodeling of the advertising display exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the cost of reconstruction of the building, shall remove, alter or replace such sign so as to conform to the requirements of this chapter in conjunction with said project.
            (d)   Any advertising display which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, whose owner seeks relocation thereof and relocates the advertising display shall be required to conform said relocated advertising display to the provisions of this chapter within six (6) months from the date of receipt of a written order of abatement from the Planning Director requiring such abatement.
            (e)   Any advertising display which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter for which there has been an agreement between the advertising display owner and the city for its removal as of any given date shall remove such sign in accordance with the provisions of said agreement.
            (f)   Any temporary advertising display erected pursuant to a special events permit issued by the city shall be removed as specified under Section 18.44.170 (Temporary Signs - Special Event Permit) or within such other time as expressly authorized by the city.
            (g)   Any advertising display which may become a danger to the public or is unsafe shall be removed, altered or replaced so as to conform to the requirements of this chapter within thirty (30) days from the date of receipt of a written order of abatement from the Planning Director requiring such removal or alteration. Any advertising display which poses an immediate danger to public health or safety, shall be abated as provided in the written order of abatement from the Planning Director.
            (h)   Any advertising display which is determined by the City Engineer to constitute a traffic hazard not created by the relocation of streets or highways or by acts of the city shall be removed, altered or replaced so as to conform to the requirements of this chapter as provided in the written order of abatement from the Planning Director requiring such removal or alteration.
            (i)   Any other advertising display which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter for which the city is exempt from the payment of compensation in conjunction with requiring its removal as specified in Chapter 2.5 of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code of the State of California, or any successor provisions thereto shall be subject to removal as specified in said code.
            (j)   Illegal Signs. “Illegal Signs” as defined in Section 18.44.030 (Definitions) shall be removed, altered or replaced so as to conform to the requirements of this chapter within six (6) months following the effective date of this chapter.
      .0208   Minimum Sight Distance Requirements for Freestanding Signs. A line-of-sight triangle is hereby established at each corner of every intersection of two streets. Two legs of the triangle shall extend twenty-five (25) feet along the ultimate right-of-way line of each street right-of-way (except at the intersection of Harbor Boulevard and Katella Avenue where the legs of the triangle shall extend twenty-five (25) feet along the back of the sidewalk) and the third leg shall connect the termini of each of the other two legs. No sign above twenty-four (24) inches in height (as measured from the finished grade of the adjacent sidewalk) shall be permitted within the line-of-sight triangle. Any freestanding sign installation located within fifty (50) feet of any driveway, including driveways on adjacent properties, shall meet the provisions of engineering standards on file in the City.
      .0209   Lighted Signs. No artificial light of whatever type or nature used in conjunction with, or for the purpose of, lighting any sign shall be so erected or constructed or placed, nor shall any substance or material capable of reflecting light be so placed, as to result in directing such artificial light into any structure used exclusively for residential purposes. For the purpose of this provision, structures devoted to hotel and motel use are not to be construed as structures used exclusively for residential purposes.
         .01   Indirect Lighting. No sign lighted by any type of indirect lighting shall have any such lighting which exceeds eight hundred (800) milliamps rated capacity nor shall any sign lighted by neon or similar materials have any such neon or similar material which exceeds thirty (30) milliamps rated capacity.
         .02   Intensity of Illumination. The approval of any illuminated sign shall not be final until thirty (30) days after installation, during which period the Planning Director may order the dimming of any illumination found to be excessively brilliant and no sign permit shall be valid until such order has been carried out to an extent satisfactory to the Planning Director. For purposes of this section, illumination shall be considered excessively brilliant when it prevents normal perception of objects or buildings beyond or in the vicinity of the sign, or when it shines directly onto any residentially developed property.
       .0210   Signs Required By Law. Nothing contained in this chapter shall prevent the erection, location or construction of any sign on private property where such erection, location or construction of said sign is required by any law; provided, however, no such sign erected, placed or maintained pursuant to this provision shall exceed four (4) square feet in area except to the extent a greater sign area is expressly required by law.
      .0211   Signs in the Public Rights-of-Way. Signs shall be prohibited in any public rights-of-way as provided in Section 4.04.130 (Prohibition of Signs in the Public Right-of-Way) of the Anaheim Municipal Code except signs and gateways as described in the Design Plan and private Anaheim Resort business identification freestanding monument signs within the ultimate public right-of-way along Katella Avenue, provided an Encroachment License is approved for such signs by the Public Works Department.
      .0212   Address Identification. Identify the address of each building and each tenant with an exterior public entrance in six-inch (6") high numbers, a maximum of three (3) feet above the main entry doorway or within three (3) feet from either side of the main entry.
   .030   Permitted, Conditionally Permitted and Prohibited Signs. Table 116-J contains permitted and prohibited sign types. It also includes sign types permitted subject to the approval of a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to and in accordance with the applicable provisions of Chapters 18.60 (Procedures), 18.66 (Conditional Use Permits) and this chapter. This section is not intended to conditionally allow signs prohibited by this chapter or to change the standards contained herein, but is intended to provide a mechanism to address special circumstances. Business and identification signs shall consist of permanent non-changeable copy except as provided for changeable copy signs as set forth in Table 116-K.
Table 116-K
Permitted, Conditionally Permitted and Prohibited Signs
P   Permitted by Right
C   Conditional Use Permit
N   Prohibited
Sign Type
C-R District
Special Provisions
Table 116-K
Permitted, Conditionally Permitted and Prohibited Signs
P   Permitted by Right
C   Conditional Use Permit
N   Prohibited
Sign Type
C-R District
Special Provisions
A-frame or “sandwich board” signs
N
 
Animated signs
N
 
Attachments or “riders” to signs
N
 
Automotive Service Station Signs
C
Subject to Table 116-K of Section 18.116.160.040.0401 (Automotive Service Station Signs) and Planning Standard Detail No. 7.
Awning (Canopy Signs)
P
Canopy signs on awning valances are considered wall signs and are subject to the provisions of wall signs as provided in Section 18.116.160 Table 116-S; Table 116-T; and Table 116-U; and, the following provisions:
   (a)   Such signs shall be permitted on awning valances, provided awnings shall not be permitted to project over or into a public right-of-way and the awnings shall be an integral part of the building design.
   (b)   Said signs shall be pedestrian oriented;
   (c)   Said signs shall not be internally illuminated;
   (d)   Only fifteen percent (15%) of the entire surface of the awning may be utilized for the sign;
   (e)   Said sign may include the company name and/or company symbol/logo; and,
   (f)   Up to one canopy/awning may have “The Anaheim ResortTM” logo located on the canopy/awning in a size and location approved by the Planning Director.
Beacon lights or beacon signs, when the intent of such signs is advertising and not entertainment, which shall not have adverse glare on adjoining properties.
N
 
Billboards
N
 
Business information signs
N
 
Can-type signs which incorporate translucent copy and translucent background.
N
 
Changeable copy signs
C
Including electronic message boards for a theater, entertainment facility, convention center, amusement park; for hotel complexes and recreational vehicle or campsite parks provided the site on which the use is located is a minimum of four (4) acres in area; or, for hotel complexes when the sign is not visible from any public right-of-way, as may be seen from a point six (6) feet above ground level. In addition, the following provisions shall apply to such signs:
   (a)   In addition to the permitted business identification wall signs, changeable copy signs shall be wall signs provided the top of such sign is below the cornice of the building or twenty-five (25) feet, whichever is lower, except theaters or entertainment facilities, which may have a changeable copy sign which displays identification and program information, the name of the theater or auditorium and it may be a marquee sign. Changeable copy signs for hotel complexes which are not visible from any public right-of-way, as may be seen from a point six (6) feet above ground level may exceed the twenty-five (25) foot height limitation subject to compliance with applicable height standards.
   (b)   Such signs shall not be visible from residentially developed properties.
   (c)   The design of such signs shall be integrated with the architecture of the building.
   (d)   Animation and bare bulbs are allowed as they pertain to bulb matrix technology (a technology used for reader board changeable message signs).
Except under the above provisions, no other changeable copy signs are otherwise permitted.
“Come-on” signs (e.g., “Sale Today,” “Stop,” “Look,” “Going out of Business,” etc.).
N
 
“Closed and Open” Signs
P
Subject to Table 116-O of this Section.
Dual-Lit Channel Letters
N
 
Emitting signs
N
 
Exposed neon signs.
N
 
Flashing or traveling light signs.
N
 
Fluorescent colors on signs except for colors on company symbols.
N
 
Freestanding Monument Signs.
P
Subject to Table 116-P of Section 18.116.160.040 and Planning Standard Detail Nos. 5, 6, 7 or 8.
Inflatable advertising display
N
 
Informational, Regulatory and Directional (IRD) signs NOT visible from the Public Right-of-Way.
P
Subject to Table 116-R of Section 18.116.160.050.0405 (Informational, Regulatory and Directional (IRD) signs NOT visible from the Public Right-of-Way).
Informational, Regulatory and Directional (IRD) signs VISIBLE from the Public Right-of-Way
P
Subject to Section 18.116.050.0508 (Informational, Regulatory and Directional (IRD) signs VISIBLE from the Public Right-of-Way).
Landscape signs.
N
 
Magnetic signs.
N
 
Off-premises or off-site directional signs.
N
 
On-site directional guidance and on-site directory signs which are not part of a coordinated architectural, informational, directional and regulatory sign system.
N
 
Paper, cloth and plastic streamer signs, and flags, banners and fixed balloons except as otherwise permitted pursuant to Section 18.44.170 (Temporary Signs – Special Event Permit).
N
 
Painted signs on exterior walls.
N
 
Parapet signs
N
Except as otherwise permitted for automotive service stations pursuant to section 18.116.160.040.0401 (Automotive Service Station).
Pennants or pennant-type banners
N
Where visible from a public right-of-way and/or adjacent property, except as otherwise permitted pursuant to Section 18.44.170 (Temporary Signs – Special Event Permit).
Pole signs
N
 
Political Campaign signs
P
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, political campaign signs shall be permitted on private property subject to 18.44.210.030 (Political Signs) with the exception that such signs shall comply with the following:
   (a)   Sight Distance. Such signs shall comply with the minimum sight distance requirements set forth in paragraph 18.116.160.020.0208 (Minimum Sight Distance Requirements for Freestanding Signs);
   (b)   Code Compliance. Such signs shall comply with the provisions of Section 4.04.130 (Prohibition of Signs in the Public Right-of-Way); and
   (c)   Compliance with Title 15. Any structure to which a political sign is attached shall comply with all applicable provisions of Title 15 “Building and Housing” of the Anaheim Municipal Code, except that no building permit shall be required for a temporary political campaign sign having a surface area of thirty-five (35) square feet or less and which structure is removed within one hundred and twenty (120) days of its erection or placement, or within thirty (30) days after the election to which the sign relates, whichever occurs first.
Portable signs
N
 
Product advertising signs (e.g., soft drinks, cigarettes, etc.).
N
 
Projecting signs
C
As defined in subsection 18.44.030 (Signs) and subject to the following provisions:
   (a)   A maximum sign area of four (4) square feet;
   (b)   One (1) per business or store front
   (c)   Limited to the business name and/or logo
   (d)   Lowest point of sign shall be eight (8) feet above ground level directly below sign.
   (e)   Maximum height to be determined by Conditional Use Permit.
   (f)   Sixteen(16)-foot minimum distance between signs on the same parcel.
   (g)   Thirty (30) inch maximum projection from building face.
   (h)   Externally illuminated signs only.
Replicas of official traffic control signs or signs so similar as to be confusing or hazardous to traffic.
N
 
Restaurant Menu Board
P
Subject to the following provisions:
   (a)   One (1) per main entrance to restaurant;
   (b)   Limited to display of restaurant menu only;
   (c)   Shall be permanently affixed to building wall adjacent to main entrance;
   (d)   A maximum sign area per face of 4 square feet;
   (e)   A maximum 3-inch projection from building face;
   (f)   May be internally illuminated.
Roof signs
N
 
Rotating or revolving signs
N
 
Signs attached to trees or landscaping
N
 
Signs neither otherwise expressly permitted nor otherwise expressly prohibited in this Zone.
C
 
Signs projecting over or into the public right-of-way except as otherwise expressly permitted herein.
N
 
Statues utilized for advertising purposes.
N
 
Temporary signs except as otherwise expressly permitted herein.
N
 
Vehicle entrance or exit signs which incorporate business name(s) or other advertising not in compliance with Section 18.116.160.050.0304 and Table 116-N “Informational, Regulatory and Directional (IRD) Signs Visible from the Public Right-of-Way.”
N
 
Vehicle signs (signs mounted or displayed on a vehicle for advertising purposes) or the parking or storing of advertising vehicles on public or private property.
N
 
Wall Signs
P
Walls located below the third (3rd) floor level of a building and which signs are located on a property adjacent to and visible from residentially developed properties are not permitted.
Subject to Table 116-Q, Table 116-R and Table 116-S of Section 18.116.160.050 (Regulation of Specific Types of Signs)
Window Identification Signs
P
Subject to the following provisions:
   (a)   A maximum sign area of ten percent (10%) of the area of the largest glass windowpane or four (4) square feet, whichever is less, positioned so that views into the premises are not obstructed;
   (b)   The maximum number of signs per lot is subject to the provisions for wall signs indicated in Tables 116-Q, 116-R and 116-S;
   (c)   Sign copy is limited to the business name and/or logo;
   (d)   Painted, screen-printed or leafed letters/symbol on to interior surface of glass.
Window Signs
N
Including neon signs and plaques of signs suspended behind the glass and signs painted on display windows with day-glo, or temporary paint (other than permitted window identification signs as defined above (Window Identification Sign)).
 
      .0301   Automotive Service Station Signs. All Automotive Service Station Signs shall comply with Table 116-L:
Table 116-L
Automotive Service Station Signs
Sign Type
Provisions
Table 116-L
Automotive Service Station Signs
Sign Type
Provisions
Business Identification Freestanding Monument Sign
(a)   The sign design and materials shall be subject to Planning Standard Detail No. 7.
(b)   Information on the sign shall include only the company symbol or logo, company name, special services (such as car wash) and pricing information.
(c)   If the automotive service station is located on a corner lot, either one of the following shall be permitted: one (1) double-faced freestanding monument sign located at the corner or one (1) double-faced freestanding monument sign per street frontage with each sign located at least seventy-five (75) feet from any intersection.
(d)   If the automotive service station is not located upon a corner lot, one (1) double-faced freestanding monument sign shall be permitted, located in the approximate middle forty (40) percent of the street frontage of said lot.
(e)   Pricing signs shall conform to the provisions of Division 5, Chapter 14, Article 12, Code Sections 13530-13540, of the Business and Professions Code of the State of California, or any successor provisions thereto. The height of any pricing numbers shall be a minimum of six (6) inches and a maximum of ten (10) inches provided the height is less than the height of the company name and shall be either manually or electronically changeable.
(f)   Said signs shall be illuminated internally; however, the permanent background portion shall be opaque, with only the message portion being illuminated.
(g)   Said signs shall be constructed of materials
Canopy, Wall, and Parapet Signs
(a)   Signs shall consist of individually fabricated letters and/or company symbol or logo.
(b)   Lighted signs may be internally illuminated only.
(c)   All signs shall be attached to the building or pump island canopy face without the use of visible supports or raceways.
(d)   Letter height shall be a maximum of eighteen (18) inches. Company symbol or logo height shall be a maximum of twenty-four (24) inches.
(e)   Signs shall be limited to one (1) exposure for each direction of traffic flow, up to a maximum of four (4) exposures.
Lighter Box Gasoline Service Station Signs
Lighter box gasoline services station signs, as defined in Section 18.44.030 (Definitions), shall be permitted in service stations; provided, that said signs shall be subject to the following provisions:
(a)   Shall only be internally illuminated;
(b)   Shall be either single-faced or double-faced;
(c)   Advertising thereon shall be limited to the company name or company symbol or logo;
(d)   Such signs have dimensions not exceeding four (4) feet in height and the span of the working area or thirteen (13) feet, whichever is; and
(e)   Said name or logo shall not exceed twenty (20) percent of the total area of each face of said sign.
Pump Top and Pump Face Signs
No signs other than instructional or operational signs (e.g., “Self Service,” “Pay Cashier First”) shall be permitted on the pump top or pump island canopy, unless they are part of an overall, designed corporate identity program for signage.
 
      .0302   Future Establishment Signs. The future establishment of a business or other activity on a parcel or lot may be advertised by means of on-site signage, which shall comply with Table 116-M.
Table 116-M
Future Establishment Signs
Sign Type
Provisions
Table 116-M
Future Establishment Signs
Sign Type
Provisions
Maximum Sign Area Per Sign Face
Sixty (60) square feet
Maximum Height
Four (4) feet with a two (2) foot berm, for a maximum total height of six (6) feet.
Maximum Number of Signs
One single-faced or double-faced freestanding sign per each street or highway frontage.
Location
All future establishment signs shall be located in the middle thirty (30) percent of the street frontage except for corner lot locations where said sign may be located at the corner.
Time Limit
One (1) year from date of construction or erection unless prior to expiration, approved by the Planning Director for an additional period not to exceed one (1) year.
Names and Dates Required on Signs
The name of the sign owner, property owner or sign builder along with a phone number, as well as the date the sign is erected, shall be securely placed on each sign.
Ownership of Property
The subject property upon which the sign is located must be owned in fee interest, or must be under lease for a minimum ten (10) year period (from the date of issuance of the sign permit), by, or for the purpose of, the future business or establishment referred to upon the copy of said sign. Proof of compliance with this subsection shall be submitted to the Building Division of the Planning Department prior to issuance of a permit.
Sign Permit Fees and Deposits
For each and every on-site future establishment sign, a sign permit fee and cash deposit to guarantee removal of each sign shall be paid to the Building Division of the Planning Department. The amount of said fees and deposits shall be as specified by City Council Resolution. Further, all such signs shall be subject to the following conditions:
(a)   Return of Deposit. If said sign is removed within thirty (30) days following the expiration date, the removal deposit shall be refunded to the depositor in full.
(b)   Failure to Remove. If said sign is not removed prior to or upon the permit expiration date, the city or its agents may enter upon subject property and remove the sign, the cost of the removal to be deducted from the removal deposit, and the remainder of the removal deposit, if any, to be returned to the depositor. The sign owner, property owner or sign builder whose name appears on the sign (collectively "person") shall be notified of the city's intent to remove the sign not less than fourteen (14) days prior to removal by the city. Following removal by the city, said person shall be notified of the removal and said sign shall be retained for a minimum of ten (10) days following the date of such notice after which said sign may be disposed of by the city.
Authority
Before a permit for such a sign is issued, the owners of record of the premises and the person proposing to erect the sign must furnish the Building Division written authority granting the City of Anaheim or any of its agents or employees irrevocable permission to enter upon the premises and irrevocably appointing the Chief Building Official as the agent of the owners with permission and authority to remove such sign pursuant to the provisions of this section.
 
      .0303   Real Estate Signs. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, temporary real estate signs advertising property for sale, lease, rental or for inspection by the public shall be permitted on the property on which such sign is located subject to the following limitations in Table 116-N. Any such sign(s) may also include the name, address, and phone number of the person, firm, entity or agent offering said premises for sale, lease, rental or other disposition.
Table 116-N
Real Estate Signs
Parcel Size
Sign Size Provisions
Table 116-N
Real Estate Signs
Parcel Size
Sign Size Provisions
Parcels less than twenty-two thousand (22,000) square feet in area.
One (1) unlighted, single-faced or double-faced freestanding sign per each lot or parcel.
Maximum sign area shall not exceed ten (10) square feet per sign face.
Maximum height, as installed, shall not exceed four (4) feet.
Parcels of between twenty-two thousand (22,000) and forty-three thousand (43,000) square feet in area.
One (1) unlighted, single-faced or double-faced freestanding sign per each street or highway frontage of the lot or parcel.
Maximum sign area shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet per sign face.
Maximum height, as installed, shall not exceed four (4) feet.
Parcels forty-three thousand (43,000) square feet or more in area.
One (1) unlighted, single-faced or double-faced freestanding sign per each street or highway frontage of the lot or parcel.
Maximum sign area shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet per sign face.
Maximum heigh, as installed, shall not exceed four (4) feet.
 
      .0304   Informational, Regulatory and Directional (IRD) Signs. All IRD Signs shall comply with Table 116-O:
 
Table 116-O
Informational, Regulatory and Directional Signs
Sign Requirement
Signs Visible from the Public Right-of-Way
Signs Not Visible from the Public Right-of-Way
Maximum Sign Area Per Face
Eight (8) square feet
Not applicable
Sign Copy Limitations
Be designed as a coordinated architectural, information, directional and regulatory sign system for the project with consistent design detailing and color scheme.
Be designed to direct pedestrians and/or vehicular traffic while said traffic is on the parcel on which said signage is located.
Limited to the directional symbol or directional copy and may include the business name and/or logo.
Be designed as a coordinated, architectural, informational, directional and regulatory sign system for the project with consistent design detailing and color scheme.
If a company symbol or logo is part of the sign copy, it may occupy up to a maximum of twenty-five percent (25%) of the sign area.
If a company symbol or logo is part of the sign copy, it may occupy up to a maximum of fifty percent (50%) of the sign copy area.
 
 
Table 116-O
Informational, Regulatory and Directional Signs
Sign Requirement
Signs Visible from the Public Right-of-Way
Signs Not Visible from the Public Right-of-Way
Maximum Height
As required by local, state or national code.
As required by state or national code.
Illumination
Sign cabinets with letters/symbols routed from opaque background with internally illuminated copy.
Not applicable
Other Limitations
No more than two (2) directional (entrance/exit) signs per driveway.
Signs shall be located outside any required setback area.
May be designed per Planning Standard Detail No. 8.
May be designed per Planning Standard Detail No. 8.
On-site directional (entrance/exit) signs located within the setback area adjacent to a public street shall comply with the minimum setback requirements for monument signs and shall comply with vehicular line-of-site requirements; all other on-site directional, informational or regulatory signs visible from the public right-of-way shall not be located within the setback area adjacent to a public street.
 
      .0305   Open and Closed Signs. All Open and Closed signs shall comply with Table 116-P.
Table 116-P
Open and Closed Signs
Sign Requirements
Provisions
Table 116-P
Open and Closed Signs
Sign Requirements
Provisions
Maximum Sign Area Per Face
Two (2) square feet
Maximum Number of Signs Per Lot
One (1) per main entrance
Sign Copy Limitations
Message limited to “open” and/or “closed” only
Illumination
May be internally illuminated or exposed neon
No bare bulbs or flashing signs
No can signs with translucent back-lit panels.
Other Limitations
Placed inside the building adjacent to the main entrance.
 
   .040   Freestanding Monument Signs. Freestanding signs shall be monument signs except as provided elsewhere in this chapter and shall comply with Table 116-Q.
Table 116-Q
Freestanding Monument Signs
Street Frontage
0-60 ft.
>60-150 ft.
>150-300 ft.
>300 ft.
Maximum Sign Area Per Sign Face
None
See Planning Standard Detail Nos. 5, 6 and 7 on file in the Planning Department.
Maximum Number of Signs Per Lot
None
One (1) per street frontage. (A)
One (1) per six hundred and sixty (660) feet of street frontage. (B)
Minimum Setback From Public Right-of-Way
Not Applicable
Two (2) feet
Except adjacent to Harbor Boulevard between Orangewood Avenue and Interstate-5 Freeway and adjacent to Katella Avenue between Walnut Street and Interstate-5 Freeway where it shall be zero (0) feet.
Maximum Height to Top (C)
Not Applicable
Nine (9) feet oriented on a horizontal format.
Eleven and one half (11.5) feet oriented on a vertical format.
Sign Copy
Not Applicable
Name and/or logo of the development and/or name and/or logo of up to three (3) tenants/accessory uses. (D)
Total area for sign copy shall not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of total sign face and shall not be closer than ten (10) inches to any edge.
Illumination
Not Applicable
Illumination Limitations
No bare bulbs, exposed neon, animated or flashing signs.
Allowable illumination
Letters/symbols routed from painted opaque background with internally illuminated push-through copy.
Ground mounted spotlights screed from public view by landscaping.
Other Limitations (E), (F)
Not Applicable
All signs to be mounted on the standard Anaheim Resort sign base which is not included in the area calculation of the sign.
Standard sign base shall be precast colored concrete as specified in the Anaheim Resort Identity Program.
An Anaheim Resort logo shall appear on three sides of each column on the standard sign base.
Signs shall identify development address in the location specified on sign details on file in the Planning Department, using the typeface consistent with the identity sign elements for the street address.
All signs except corner locations shall be located in the middle 40% of the street frontage. For corner locations signs may be located at the corner.
Any attachments or “riders” to signs shall be prohibited.
All signs shall be placed perpendicular to the street.
 
 
   (A)   For corner lots, one freestanding monument sign is permitted on each street frontage (up to two (2) signs per lot), provided that if two (2) signs are installed, each sign shall be located a minimum distance of seventy-five (75) feet from the intersection and the sign copy of both signs is not legible at the same time from any point on the adjacent rights-of-way. If one sign is installed, it is permitted to be installed at the corner or along either street frontage.
   (B)   Maximum of two (2) signs per street frontage with a minimum distance of three hundred (300) feet between signs.
   (C)   Signs located adjacent to Harbor Boulevard, between Orangewood Avenue and Interstate 5 Freeway; Orangewood Avenue; Walnut Street; and, West Street, south of Katella Avenue shall be oriented on a horizontal format, signs on all other streets in the District shall be oriented on a vertical format.
   (D)   Multi-tenant signs are encouraged to use one consistent typeface for all tenants or one color for all sign copy. The capital letter height and logo of all tenant identification copy shall be the same on a single sign face. If a retail business within the Hotel/Motel is identified on the sign, the sign shall be considered a multi-tenant sign.
   (E)   A special district has been created on Convention Way and Disneyland Drive between Katella Avenue and Ball Road. Hotels/Motels developed in this district may integrate the allowable sign area specified for freestanding monument signs into a feature landscape element, such as a wall or other landscape feature that expresses the architecture or thematic character of the development or establishment. This sign area shall be defined according to Code Section 18.116.160.010.0102 “Area of Sign” in the Sign Code. This feature landscape element shall be used for identity signage in lieu of the standard monument sign base and can include the street address, professional affiliations, and vacancy information. These feature landscape elements are to frame the entry drive of each major hotel and can occur on one or both sides of the main driveway entrance to the hotel. The landscape element can extend into the required landscape setback, with the provision that: (a) a minimum 7-ft. setback from the public right-of-way be maintained; (b) that the landscape element does not violate the City's vehicle sight distance standards; and, (c) that it does not create a continuous wall along the Convention Way or the Disneyland Drive frontage. The maximum height of the landscape element within the required landscape shall not exceed 10 ft. and there shall not be more than two sign faces per hotel entry drive, consistent with the Design Plan sign standards. The type of sign illumination permitted shall be the same as those permitted under FREESTANDING MONUMENT SIGN listed above.
   (F)   For development located within the Harbor Boulevard/Katella Avenue Central Core Intersection Area as depicted on Exhibit 3.3-6 (Central Core Plan) of the Specific Plan, Multi-Tenant Signs integrated with the building architecture may be permitted in lieu of a Freestanding Monument Sign subject to approval of a conditional use permit. The sign(s) must be integrated into the design of the building, consistent with project architecture and designed in accordance with the following:
      (i)   One sign is permitted on each street frontage (up to two (2) signs per lot), provided that if two (2) signs are installed, each sign shall be located a minimum distance of seventy-five (75) feet from the intersection. If one sign is installed, it may be installed at the corner or along either street frontage.
      (ii)   Unless installed at the corner, the sign must be oriented perpendicular to the adjacent street.
      (iii)   The maximum permitted height is fourteen (14) feet and maximum permitted width is 11 feet.
      (iv)   The sign may be single or double sided.
      (v)   The total area of tenant copy may not exceed 135 square feet per side. Up to four tenants may be advertised.
   .050   Business Identification Wall Signs - General. Business Identification Wall Signs shall comply with Table 116-R except for Hotel/Motel Business Identification Wall Signs which shall comply with Table 116-S.
 
Table 116-R
Business Identification Wall Sign
Street Frontage
0-30 ft.
>30-60 ft.
>60-100 ft.
>100-150 ft.
>150 ft.
Maximum Sign Area per Sign Face
30 square feet
60 square feet
100 square feet
140 square feet
160 square feet
Maximum Number of Signs per Lot
Mid-block Locations
One (1) per building or store front.
Corner Lots
One (1) per building or store front; or, one (1) per building per each street frontage as long as only one sign is legible at any time from any point on the adjacent public right-of-way.
 
Sign Copy
Number of Stories
Maximum Letter/
Symbol Height
Symbol Only Maximum Height
 
1 - 2
24 inches
36 inches
 
Over 2
36 inches
48 inches
 
Sign copy limited to building name and/or logo, individual business name and/or logo, or generic name (i.e., Pizza, Gift Shop) and/or logo.
 
Sign copy shall be located no closer than one-half the size of the largest letter/symbol to the top and sides of the building wall.
 
Sign copy shall be located at the cornice line or twenty-five (25) feet from the ground, whichever is lower.
Illumination
Illumination Limitations
No bare bulbs, exposed neon, animated or flashing signs.
No internally illuminated canopies/awnings.
No white or light colored translucent back lit panels.
All raceways shall be concealed.
No dual-lit signs.
Allowable Illumination
For symbols only, sign cabinet with letters/symbol routed from opaque background with internally illuminated copy.
Reverse metal pan channel letters/symbol with neon halo illumination.
Internally illuminated channel letters/symbol with translucent face panels.
Open pan channel letters/symbol with clear translucent face panels.
Other Limitations
12 inch maximum projection from building face.
Projection over the public right-of-way is prohibited.
There must be a minimum distance of 16 feet between signs on the same parcel.
Canopy and awning sign design must be an integral part of the building design and are in lieu or permitted wall signs.
Wall signs located below the third (3) floor level of a building and which signs are located on a properly adjacent to and visible from residentially developed properties are not permitted.
 
   .060   Business Identification Wall Signs –Hotel/Motel. Hotel/Motel Business Identification Wall Signs shall comply with Table 116-S.
Table 116-S
Business Identification Wall Sign –Hotel/Motel
Number of Stories
1 - 2
3 - 4
5 - 7
8 or more
Table 116-S
Business Identification Wall Sign –Hotel/Motel
Number of Stories
1 - 2
3 - 4
5 - 7
8 or more
Maximum Sign Area per Sign Face
160 square feet
200 square feet
250 square feet
300 square feet
Maximum Letter/Symbol Height
2 feet
4 feet
4 feet, 6 inches
5 feet, 6 inches
Symbol Only Maximum Height
3 feet
7 feet
8 feet
10 feet
Maximum Number of Signs per Building
Two (2), except that for hotels or motels located on a corner property, up to four (4) signs may be permitted.
For buildings at mid-block locations, signs shall be located on non-adjacent building elevations; provided that for buildings over five (5) stories in height, the two wall signs may be located on adjacent building elevations as long as only one sign is legible at any time from any point on the adjacent public right-of-way.
Buildings over five (5) stories may have one additional wall sign located on the porte-cochere with a maximum letter/symbol height of twenty-four (24) inches and one additional wall sign located above the main lobby pedestrian entrance with a maximum letter/symbol height of twenty-four (24) inches.
Sign Copy
Sign copy limited to hotel/motel name and/or logo.
Sign copy shall be located no closer than one-half the size of the largest letter/symbol to the top and sides of the building wall or fascia or to the closest window line adjacent to the sign.
Sign copy shall be located below the top of the building eave line or roof line, whichever is lower.
Illumination
Illumination Limitations
No bare bulbs, exposed neon, animated or flashing signs.
No internally illuminated can signs displaying corporate hotel/motel affiliations.
No internally illuminated canopies/awnings.
All raceways shall be concealed.
No dual-lit signs.
Allowable Illumination
For symbols only, sign cabinet with letters/symbol routed from opaque background with internally illuminated copy.
Reverse metal pan channel letters/symbol with neon halo illumination.
Internally illuminated channel letters/symbol with translucent face panels.
Open pan channel letters/symbol with clear translucent face panels.
Other Limitations
12 inch maximum projection from building face or from architectural projection.
Projection over the public right-of-way is prohibited.
Signs shall be attached without visible supports or raceways.
Canopy and awning sign design must be an integral part of the building design and are in lieu of permitted wall signs.
Wall signs located below the third (3) floor level of a building and which signs are located on a property adjacent to and visible from residentially developed properties are not permitted.
 
   .070   Accessory Business Wall Sign –Hotel/Motel. Hotel/Motel Accessory Walls signs shall comply with Table 116-T.
 
Table 116-T
Accessory Business Wall Sign – Hotel/Motel
Maximum Length of Sign
Up to eighty percent (80%) of the tenant storefront length.
Maximum Number of Signs Per Business
One (1) sign that is visible from the public right-of-way per business. If a business has frontage on two streets, two (2) signs may be permitted, one facing each street. An additional sign may be permitted on the corner, if the main entrance to the business is located on the corner.
Sign Copy Limitations
Limited to business name and/or logo.
Shall be located below the second floor line.
Maximum Letter Height: thirty-six (36) inches for the first letters, twenty-four (24) inches for copy.
Maximum Symbol Height (when used with a company name or logo): thirty-six (36) inches
Symbol Only Maximum Height: thirty-six (36) inches
Other Limitations
No flashing signs, exposed neon or bare bulbs.
Signs shall be attached without visible supports or raceways.
Signs shall be installed directly above or adjacent to the main entrance of the business.
Wall signs are permitted for restaurant or retail shops with a GFA of less than 10,000 square feet when it has a separate entrance other than through hotel/motel lobby; businesses with a GFA of 10,000 square feet or more may have one wall sign per street frontage whether or not it has a separate entrance other than through the hotel/motel lobby.
Accessory business wall signs not visible from the public right-of-way are exempt, provided they are part of a coordinated sign program.
 
   .080   Anaheim Resort Nonconforming Signage Program – Replacement Signs. Notwithstanding the foregoing, for participants in the Anaheim Resort Nonconforming Signage Program, modifications (size, location, design) to freestanding monument signs and wall signs may be permitted subject to the approval of the Planning Director to comply with the Anaheim Resort Nonconforming Signage Program adopted by resolution of the City Council concurrently with adoption of SP92-2. The Planning Director’s decision shall be final unless appealed to the City Council within ten (10) days from the date of such decision.
   .090   Sign Materials. All signs, with the exception of Canopy and Window Signs shall be constructed as follows:
      .0901   Construct street number and main identity sign boxes of fiberglass or aluminum materials. All other materials, including wood and steel are not allowed.
      .0902   The sign face shall read as a single surface with sign copy applied by silk screening or push through acrylic flush to the surface.
      .0903   Fiberglass signs shall be constructed of fiberglass reinforced plastic with a smooth surface prior to painting. Coloring integral to the fiberglass material is also acceptable.
      .0904   Aluminum signs shall be of an appropriate thickness to avoid oil canning or buckling. A 1/8 inch minimum thickness is required. All seams shall be filled and ground smooth. There shall be no visible fasteners and all edges shall be eased.
      .0905   All surfaces shall be thoroughly prepared and appropriately primed and painted conforming to industry standards to prevent oxidation, pitting or rust.
      .0906   Identification of sign fabricator credits shall be hidden from public view.
      .0907   Construct signs of permanent exterior sign materials. (Ord. 5453 § 1 (part); September 27, 1994: Ord. 5920 1 (part); June 8, 2004: Ord. 6031 § 64 (part); August 22, 2006: Ord. 6141 §§ 5 - 7; April 14, 2009: Ord. 6156 § 47; September 22, 2009: Ord. 6265 §§ 25 - 32; January 15, 2013: Ord. 6274 §§ 2, 3; May 14, 2013: Ord. 6506 §§ 64 - 67; February 9, 2021.)