HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-060 ZOASignReg02-14-2003 AGENDA STATEMENT
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING DATE: JANUARY 14, 2003
SUBJECT:
PA 02-060 City of Dublin, Zoning Ordinance Amendment - Amendment
to Chapter 8.84, Sign Regulations of the Dublin Municipal Code (Zoning
Ordinance)
Prepared by Andy Byde, Senior Planner
ATTACHMENTS:
2.
3.
4.
December 3, 2002, City Council Agenda Statement;
December 3, 2002, City Council minutes on Report on Apartment
Temporary Signage;
Resolution recommending the City Council adopt the ordinance
amending the Dublin Municipal Code (Zoning Ordinance);
Ordinance amending the Dublin Municipal Code.
RECOMMENDATION:
2.
3.
4.
5.
Open Public Hearing and receive Staff presentation;
Take testimony from the Applicant and the Public;
Question Staff, Applicant and the Public;
Close Public Hearing and deliberate;
Adopt resolution (Attachment 3) recommending the City Council
adopt the Ordinance (Attachment 4) to amend the Dublin Municipal
Code.
BACKGROUND:
At the October 1, 2002, City Council meeting, the City Council directed Staff to meet with the owners and
managers of the apartment communities within the City, to discuss the current sign regulations in respect to
temporary signage and bring this issue back to the City Council for direction.
Currently, the City Zoning Ordinance (Sign Regulations-Section 8.84.030) does not permit temporary
banners for any uses within a residential zoning district, including apartment communities. Temporary
banners are allowed for business within commercial zoning districts for a period of 15-days through the
approval of a zoning clearance, which consists of an over the counter permit and a $25 fee (the banner then
must be down for 30-days before reapplying for a new zoning clearance). The maximum allowed size for
temporary banners is 30" wide by 24 feet long (60 square feet). Additionally, apartments (and other not for
sale housing) are not allowed to utilize off-site open-house signs, as are for-sale housing (Section 8.84.050).
Staff met with the apartment owners and managers of apartment projects to discuss their concerns with the
existing sign regulations and also discussed options for changing the ordinance (a synopsis of those
discussions are included in Attachment 1, December 3, 2002, City Council Agenda Statement).
CITY COUNCIL DIRECTION:
At the December 3, 2002, City Council meeting, the Council listened to the concerns of the owners and
managers of the apartment communities and evaluated the adjacent cities and regulations they impose on
COPIES TO: In House Distribution
G:\PA#X2002\02-060\PC staff report. DOC
temporary banners for apartment communities. The City Council directed Staff to prepare an ordinance that
modified the Sign Ordinance to be consistent with the City of San Ramon, in respect to temporary banners
for apartment communities. Listed below is a table of adjacent cities their regulations in respect to
temporary banners for apartment communities:
Allow
City Banner How Large How Long
Danville Yes 20 sq ft 15-day consecutive (45-day max per year)
< 1 ac=4 sq ft;
> 1 ac-9.9ac=32 st
ft; 10+ac=128 sq
Livermore Yes ft !30-days per quarter
Pleasanton No N/A N/A
San Ramon Yes 12 sq ft 90-days per year
5-days consecutive (4-times per year for a total of 20-
Walnut Creek Yes Not regulated days)
Specifically, the City Council decided the appropriate square footage for temporary banners would be limited
to 12-square feet maximum with the duration of 15-days up and 45-days down which equates to 90-days per
year maximum (as opposed to the 15-days up and 30-days down and 60-square feet allowed for
commercially zoned uses under the Zoning Ordinance), the same zoning clearance requirement and $25-fee
would apply to the new banner permits. In addition, the City Council directed Staff to evaluate amending
the Zoning Ordinance to allow vacancy/no vacancy sign additions to Apartment Communities' monument
sign. Staff has evaluated the existing Ordinance and the existing Ordinance allows additions to monuments
either by a slot (vacancy/no vacancy sign inserted) or hooks (vacancy/no vacancy sign hung from the
bottom). Additions to existing monuments signs are consistent with the existing Ordinance, as long as the
addition to the monument sign is of a permanent nature and not made of fabric, therefore Staff does not
recommend an amendment to the Ordinance.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
The proposed change to the Municipal Code listed above would not create environmental impacts. These
changes are also exempt from CEQA because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that
such amendments would have a significant effect on the environment (CEQA Guidelines, Section
15061(b)(3)).
CONCLUSION:
The Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 8.120), requires that all zoning ordinance amendments (such as this
proposed amendment to the Sign Regulations) be heard by the Planning Commission and following a public
hearing, the Planning Commission shall make a written recommendation to the City Council whether to
approve, approve with modifications or disapprove the amendment.
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission Open the Public Hearing and receive Staff presentation
close the Public Hearing, deliberate and adopt resolution (Attachmem 4) recommending that the City
Council adopt the Ordinance (Attachment 3) to amend the Dublin Municipal Code (Zoning Ordinance-Sign
Regulations).
GENERAL INFORMATION
APPLICANT:
LOCATION:
ASSESSOR PARCELS:
GENERAL PLAN/
SPECIFIC PLAN
DESIGNATION:
EXISTING ZON1NG
AND LAND USE:
City of Dublin
100 Civic Plaza
Dublin, CA 94568
Citywide
Various
Various
Various
CITY CLERK
AGENDA STATEMENT
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: December 3, 2002
SUBJECT:
ATTACHMENTS:
2.
3.
4.
Report on Apartment Temporary Signage. Report Prepared by:
Andy Byde, Senior Planner Q~.
City Council Minutes fi.om October 1, 2002;
List of Apartment Comm~inities;
Notice sent out to Apas[ment Owners/Managers;
Agenda for meeting with Apartment Managers and Owners
Receive Staff presentation;
Provide direction to Staff regarding developing an ordinance
dealing with temporary signage for Apartment Communities;
FINANCIAL STATEMENT: No fmancial impact.
DESCRIPTION:
At the October 1, 2002, City Council meeting, the City Council directed Staffto meet with the owners and
managers of the apartment communities within the City, to discuss the current sign regulations in respect
to temporary signage and bring this issue back to the City Council for direction. On October 22, 2002,
City Staff sent out a notice to all the known apartment owners and managers of apartment projects (larger
than 10-units), that there would be a meeting held to discuss temporary apartment signage (see
Attachment 2 for a list of known apartments and Attachment 3 for the notice).
Current Signage Regulations
Currently, the City Zoning Ordinance (Section 8.84.030) does not permit temporary banners for any uses
within a residential zoning district, including apartment communities. Temporary banners are allowed for
business within commercial zoning districts for a period of 15-days through .the approval of a zoning
clearance, which consists of an over the counter permit and a $25 fee (the banner then must be down for
30-days before reapplying for a new zoning clearance). The maximum allowed size for temporary
banners is 30" wide by 24 feet long (60 square feet). Additionally, apartments (and other not for sale
· housing) are not allowed to utilize off-site open-house signs, as are for-sale housing (Section 8.84.050).
However, on-site temporary for lease signs (Section 8.84.140.1) are allowed subject to the following
regulations:
1. Not exceed a maximum area of 16 square feet per side (i.e. 4-feet by 4-feet).
COPIES TO: Apartment Owners/Managers
G:\PAg~2002\02-060\CC Staff Report for direction.doc ' ITEM NO. ~
ATTACHMENT
2. Be limited to one sign place for each 100-feet of street frontage, up to a maximum of 2-signs per
parcel.
3. Have a maximum height of 8-feet.
4. State that the property is for sale, lease or exchange by the owner, or his agent with the address and
phone number and directions.
5. Be constructed of wood, plywood, metal or other rigid material.
6. Not be placed on a private or public fight-of-way.
Meeting with Apartment Managers and Owners
On November 7, 2002, City Staff held a meeting with apartment managers and owners, in which
approximately 15-people attended, to discuss temporary signage for apartments. During the meeting,
apartment managers and owners stated the following concerns with the existing regulations:
· Concerned that Banners are not allowed for Apartments.
· Concerned that A-frame signs are not allowed.
· Apartment Communities in Dublin have a higher reported average vacancy rate than other Tri-
valley Cities, and they feel existing signage regulations have exacerbated the vacancy rate.
· Holiday times are especially difficult with Iow foot traffic and Iow leasing rates.
· Some apartment communities within the City have limited visibility and need special marketing
tools to attract potential tenants. ~
· Concerned that apartments are treated differently than other commercially zoned business within
City (i.e. no banners allowed for apartments) and different than for-sale housing (i.e. no open.
house signs allowed for apartments).
· Apartments need a variety of temporary sign types to meet individual site needs.
· Request uniform enforcement of regulations (i.e. apartment managers feel when an apartment
project is utilizing advertising methods that is not in compliance with City regulations, then that
apartment project has an unfair advantage over other apartment projects complying with the
regulations).
At the same meeting, apartment managers and owners requested the following possible solutions to their
concerns with the existing temporary signage regulations:
· Allow temporary signage similar to commercially zoned business.
· Request no regulation as it relates to the text or color of the banner (color and text is currently not
regulated for commercial business).
· Do not limit time limit allow the use of banners or other temporary signage as needed (i.e. when
there are vacancies).
· In lieu of no time limits, allow either: 30-days up and 30-days down or if that is not acceptable
allow 15-days up and 30-days down, identical to temporary signage regulations of commercially
zoned business.
· Allow, "stick signs" in landscaping (paper/cardboard signs on thin metal wire placed in
landscaping).
· Allow balloons larger than 15" in diameter (18"-20" diameter range).
Adjacent Cities and Temporar3, Banner Regulations
City Staff has conducted research regarding which nearby jurisdictions allow temporary signage,
specifically temporary banners. The following is a list of cities and regulations they impose on temporary
banners for apartment communities:
City Allow Banner How Large How Long
Danville Yes 20 sq ft 15-day consecutive (45-day max per year)
<1 ac=4 sq ft;
>l ac-9.gac=32 sq ft;
Livermore Yes 10+ac=128 sq ft 30-days per quarter
Pleasanton No NIA N/A
:San Ramon Yes 12 scI ft ~)0-days per year
Walnut Creek Yes Not recjulated 5-days consecutive (4-times Der year for a total of 20-days)
City Staff has contacted the nearby cities to survey how each city regulates temporary banners for
apartment communities, of those cities contacted, one city does not allow temporary banners (Pleasanton)
and two cities allow them for 45-days and less, per year (Danville and Walnut Creek respectively).
Currently, the Dublin Zoning Ordinance does not allow temporary banners for any use within a residential
zoning district (which includes all apartment communities), however for commercially zoned business,
Dublin allows temporary banners to be displayed for 15 consecutive days (then down for 30-days). The
Zoning Ordinance allows a maximum size for temporary banners of 30" wide by 24 feet long or 60 square
feet. The provision which, allows banners to be up for 15-days and requires them down for 30-days,
allows temporary banners to be displayed up to approximately 120 days per year.
Process
If the City Council determines that modifications should be made to the existing Sign ordinance, Staff will
prepare an agenda statement and ordinance and bring them before the Planning Commission for review
and will then return to the City Council for two public hearings. The new ordinance would then be in
effect 30-days after adoption.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Council: 1) receive Staff presentation; and (2) provide direction to Staff
regarding modifying the Temporary Signage regulations for apartment communities of the Zoning
Ordinance.
PUBLIC HEARING
PINN BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION~ INC., SILVERIA/HAIGHT/NIELSF, N .PROPERTIES
PLANNED DEV~OPMENT PREZONING (STAGE I DEVELOPMENT PLAN) PA 02-024
8:01 p.m. 6.2 '(4S0-$0)
Mayor Lockhart opened the public hearing.
Senior Planner Janet Harbin presented the Staff Report.
This is the second reading of an ordinance which would approve a Planned
Development Prezoning (Stage 1 Development Plan) for 2S9 multi-family and single~
family homes on approximately 107.7 acres on the Silveria, I-Iaight and Nielsen
properties located south and east of the intersection of Tassajara Road and Fallon Road in
the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan area.
Andrea Ehresman, Quartz Circle, stated she felt there are still the same issues as the Iron
Horse Trail with this project. Is there going to be new schools built?. She stated she has
concerns about the development of Dublin and the diminishing open space available
and the quality of life.
Mayor lx>ckhart briefly discussed new schools, which are proposed to be built as
additional homes are built in the east.
Mayor Lockhart closed the public hearing.
On motion of Cm. Oravetz, seconded by Cm. Zika, and by unanimous vote, the Council
waived the reading and adopted
ORDINANCE NO. 15- 02
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP TO PREZONE PROPERTY
AND APPROVING A RELATED STAGE I DEVELOPMENT PLAN
FOR t07.7 ACRES WEST OF TASSAJARA ROAD
AND AT THE INTERSECTION OF FALLON ROAD PA 02-024 .
PUBLIC HEARING
crry OF DUBLIN ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS PA 02-040
8:06 p.m. 6.3 (450-20
Mayor Lockhart opened the public hearing.
Senior Planner Janet Harbin presented the Stuff Report.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME g I
REGULAR MEKHNG
October l, 2002
PAGE 498
ATTACHMENT'
This is the second reading of an Ordinance mending various Chapters of the Dublin
Municipal Code (Zoning Ordinance) including Chapter 8.08 Definitions: Chapter 8.12
Zoning Districts and Permitted Use of Land; Chapter 8.36 Development Regulations;
Chapter 8.40 Accessory Structures and Uses.Regulations; Chapter 8.64 Home
Occupations Regulations; Chapter 8.76 Off-Street Parking and Loading Regulations;
Chapter 8.84 Sign Regulations; Chapter 8.104 Site Development Review Regulations;
Chapter 8.108 Temporary Use permit Regulations; and Chapter 8.lid Enforcement
Regulations to provide consistency and clarify minor land regulatory issues.
Mayor Loclchart explained that there was a first reading on this when the whole process
was reviewed and discussed. The second reading is generally a formality.
Mayor Loclchart read a statement submitted by Ki Hwang, North Lake Drive,
though my business is catego~xt as a multi-family dwelling and our rules &
msula~bns are the same as any otber home owne~, }ye should be cnO'tled to have
oppo~n~t'~'es as a ~business~ to promot~ ourselves by ~ray of mmpozaty promo~'onal
s~gns. The regulations wem s~'ct enough as it }vas. It arould hinder ~businesses~ to take
away that pn'viledg¢ (sic). It helps to promofe grow~h ~ spendin g in Dublin ~ brir~.s in
mom tax payeas to our city. ZTirnina~ this p~i~ledge (sic) will hu~ our opportum't.y to
~ laeople to Dublin. EvezTr oppo~'~ to marlre! our business will help. ~
Lisa Hirschhorn, 7100 San Ramon Road, stated she is Community Director of the Springs
Apartments and has been them for I 0 months. They have made an obvious
improvement. She requested that the Council consider mending the current signage
regulations to all multi-family housing units. They can't ufiliTg banners, flags or
balloons in temporary advertising aids. Surrounding communities allow this, but
Dublin does not. They should be afforded the same rights as other businesses. The City
should treat them as a business, just like McDonalds, Safeway and other businesses.
They help promote growth in Dublin.
Mayor Lockhart closed the public hearing.
Cm. Zika stated he did not realize they were excluded. He asked ff a task force could be
set up to meet with apartment owners to study advertising opporttmities.
Cm. McCormick stated she frequently passes apartment buildings with huge "-now
leasing" banners all over them. What is going on with this?
Ms. Harbin stated most are not in compliance and they end up getting cited. It could be
that their master sign program addresses banners.
CITY COUNCIL MINLFFES
VOLUME ~.1
REGULAR MEETING
October 1,2002
PAGE 499
Mayor Lockhart reopened the public hearin$.
Ms. Hirschhorn stated other communities do not follow the. regulations. She feels
discriminated against because of her location, close to thc Chamber of Commerce. All
she is askin$ for is the ability to temporarily put up a banner that's in $ood taste. She
would come in with itand the City could approve it. Because she follows the rules, her
apartments have a lower occupancy than any other apartment complex in Dublin.
Mayor Locldaart again closed the public hearing.
Cm. Sbranti stated he felt they should get the opportunity to advertise within the same
guidelines as other businesses with temporary signage.
Cm. Zika stated he would also like to get more information about a master sign program.
Mayor Lockhart stated she felt it should be consistent and if some can and some can't do
it, this doesn't seem fair. Maybe we could have some criteria.
Ms. Harbin stated they could approve the Zordng Ordinance Amendments as they are
now and if they want to allow bamaers in multi-family or areas with I 0 traits or more~
Chapter 8.84 could be amended. It currently prohibits this, but it could be changed and
allowed with zoning clearance.
Mayor Ix~ckhart stated her concern is we do this fairly for everybody. Make it as simple
as possible. We see people violating this every weekend. Can we simplify this? We
need to hear from people who have multi-family businesses. While it may be a business
for someone who oTM or manages, this is someone's home and this also needs to be
taken into consideration.
Cm. Oravetz made a motion to adopt the Ordinance without this section, and to get a
task force of business and staff together to discuss multi-family signage.
Cm. Sbranti stated he felt this is a specialized area that needs flzrther study,
Planning Manager Jeri Ram stated Staff could send out notices and go over this with
propert3r owners and then bring this issue back to the City Council.
Cm. Oravetz withdrew his motion
On motion of Cm. Oravetz, seconded by Cm. Zika, and by unanimous vote, the Council
waived the reading and adopted
CITY COUNCIL MINUTF3
VOLUME 2I
REGULAR MEETING
October 1, 2002
PAGE 500
CITY OF DUBLIN
100 Civic Plaza, Dublin, California 94568
Website: http://www.ci.du blin.ca.us
October 22, 2002
Dear Apartment Owner/Manager,
Re: Temporary $ignage for Apartment Communities
At the Octol~er 1, 2002, City Council meeting, the City Council directed Staff to meet with the
owners and managers of the apartment communities within the City to discuss the current sign
regulations in respect to temporary banners. Currently the City Zoning Ordinance does not
permit temporary banners for apartment communities. The purpose of the meeting would be to
discuss current regulations and evaluate different options for temporary signage. The options
will then be presented to the City Council for review and further direction.
The meeting will be held on Wednesday November 6, 2002, at 2:00 p.m. in the Regional
Meeting Room at City of Dublin, Civic Center, 100 Civic Plaza.
What:
Where:
When:
Who:
Why:
Temporary Signage for Apartment Communities
Regional Room, First Floor of Dublin City Hall at 100 Civic Plaza
Wednesday, November 6 from 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Apartment Owners and Managers and City Staff
To evaluate different options for signage
ATTACHMENT
Area Code (925) · City Manager 833-6650 - City Council 833-6650- Personnel 8334605 ' Economic Development 833-6650
Finance 833-6640- Public Works/Engineering 833-6630- Parks & Community Services 833-6645 · Police 833-6670
Planning/Code Enforcement 833-6610 · Building Inspection 833-6620' Fire Prevention Bureau 833-6606
Apartment Signage: Property Owner/Manager notification
October 22, 2002
If you are unable to attend the meeting but would like to submit your comments on this issue,
please send them to us no later than November 8, 2002. If you have any questions regarding this
matter, please do not hesitate to contact me at (925) 833-6610. We hope to see you on
November 6th.
Sincerely,
Andy Byde
Senior Planner
Encl ·
Dublin Apartment List
Richard Ambrose, City Manager
Eddie Peabody, Jr., Community Development Director
Jeri Ram, Planning Manager
Chris Foss, Economic Development Director
ATTACHMENT_
CITY OF DUBLIN
100 Civic Plaza, Dublin, Califomia 94568
Website: http://www.ci.du blin.ca.us
AGENDA
Meeting with Apartment Managers and Owners
Temporary Signage for Apartment Communities
Dublin Civic Center, Regional Meeting Room (downstairs)
Wednesday November 6, 2002
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
1. Review existing sign regulations
2. Examine concerns with current regulations
3. Identify possible solutions
4. Discuss next course of action and timeline
5. Adjourn
ATTACHMENT
City Attorney Silver explained that for public works contracts we have to follow state
provisions and go to lowest responsible bidder. The City Council adopted a purchasing
Ordinance which applies to purchase of goods and contracts for services which are not
public works projects. Basically~ it is similar to state law, which says it should be
awarded to the lowest responsible bidder.
City Manager Ambrose stated there are exceptions to the Purchasing Ordinance, but this
does not fall under one of the exceptions such as specific designs, etc. Previous City
Councils had discussions about local preference and this was when we included sales
tax as part of the award. We adjust bids received from Dublin businesses to indicate the
1% sales tax that we receive.
Cm. Oravetz stated he would also like to see us buy local.
Cm. Zika pointed out they have a responsibility to see that taxpayer money is wisely
spent.
On motion of Cm. McCormick, seconded by Cm. Zika, and by majority vote, the Council
awarded the purchase order of $21,$10.77 to Toyota Walnut Creek. Cm. Oravetz voted
in opposition to the motion.
REPORT ON APARTMENT TEMPORARY SIGNAGE
8:$0 p.m. 7.$ (400-$0)
Senior Planner Andy Byde presented the Staff Report, which was an informational report
concerning existing regulations related to apartment temporary signage and also
reported on the discussions with apartment owners and'managers on the subject of
temporary signage for apartment communities.
Mr. Byde also discussed adjacent cities and temporary banner regulations.
Mr. Byde advised that if the City Council determines that modifications should be made
to the existing Sign Ordinance, Staff will prepare an agenda statement and Ordinance
and bring them before the Planning Commission for review and will then return to the
City Council for two public hearings. The new Ordinance would then be in effect $0
days after adoption.
CITY COUNCIL MINUI'I~S
VOLUME 21
REGULAR MEETING
December 3, 2002
PAGE t508
Mayor Lockhart asked him to address the comment that some places in the community
have special permits.
Mr. Byde stated under the sign ordinance an applicant can request a master signage
plan. In researching this, we found them were no apartments that had master signage
plans allowing temporary banners. Once we discovered this, we no longer issue
permits. Any banners up are illegal.
Timothy May, Executive Director of the Rental Housing Association~ offered
congratulations to those m-elected, and thanked the City Council for sending this back
to Staff. He thanked Staff for the great job they did in discussing this with apartment
owners. Dublin has one of the lowest occupancy rates in the Valley; lower than
Pleasanton or Livermore. They believe that because the signage Ordinance in Dublin is
so restrictive, they am finding it very difficult to bring their volume back up to what they
feel is acceptable; 95% is a great equilibrium. We are not selling widgets here. Banners
are one of the primary uses for advertising in their industry. One of the most crucial
ways they contact their customers is when they are driving through the neighborhood
and see banners and stop. He agreed that banners should be used within boundaries
established by City. Use wisdom to make sure them is flexibility to accommodate areas
that have different needs. Please consider fact that there is a real need to promote and
provide flexibility. Assured City Council that apartment community is not interested in
creating apartment graffiti. He gave his phone number as (510) 557~0540.
Mayor Lockhart asked how do you equate the fact that Pleasanton allows no banners.
Mr. May stated in spite of this, we have a greater vacancy rate. The price has a lot to do
with it, obviously. The need is also a factor. A lot of other communities have a slow
growth approach. People coming into this community need to find housing.
Cm. McCormick asked about vacancy rates in general in thc industry. Is it uncommon
to have a full house all the time? A sign could go up and stay up all the time, as
vacancies occur.
Mr. May clarified vacancy/occupancy rates. At 05% occupancy, rates will stabilize.
Cm. McCormick asked if with a 95% occupancy, a sign would ideally stay up all the
time.
Mr. May stated not necessarily. They would operate within the guide.fines established.
There is a need to promote that apartment to people looking for a place to live. This is
not something that his industry has actually had to address in a long long time.
CITY COUNCIL MINIYr~s
VOLUME 21
REGULAR MEETING
December 3, 2002
PAGF_ 609
Cm. Sbranti asked about vacancy rates over the last few quarters. Numerically how
have vacancy rates shifted?
Mr. May stated occupancy has declined slightly in Dublin, when you factor in new
properties which have come on line. When you compare this with what has happened
with rents, they have dropped. Some folks have dropped their rents so drastically, they
are losing money and are unable to recoup their investment.
Cm. Sbranti asked about percentage of rent drops.
Mr. May stated in the last 4 quarters, about 15%. They understand the laws of supply
and demand. There needs to be a level playing field and a way to advertise. Signs drive
prices down.
Mayor Lockhart commented on what our neighboring cities do, and what we legally
allow.
Cm. Zika stated he liked the San Ramon idea. They allow 12 square feet signs and a
maximum of 90 days per year. We spent a lot of time going over the Sign Ordinance
and have made a concerted effort to try and get the junk out of our community. He
stated this is as far as he would be willing to go and we should require strong
enforcement. He stated he did not realize apartment owners weren't allowed to have
any signs whatsoever because they are considered residential. Again, he stated he likes
San Ramon's requirements.
Cm. Sbranti indicated he liked the idea of 15 days on and 45 days off and this actually
comes out to about the same per year. Every two months, they can make a push. 12' is
not too big. They do need to be able to advertise their product.
Cm. Sbranti stated he supports 15 on and 45 off.
Bruce Fiedler stated he manages apartments and hopes as we go forward and he agreed
that every business needs to be able to advertise their product~ and the way they do it is
important. Flimsy signs look bad. A rigid background sign has a better chance of being
neat in our community. We should have some planning here so this goes through the
process. Staff expertise could be brought into play. We live here and what we see on
the streets has a direct effect on our homes.
Mayor Lockhart asked if there are specific standards with temporary signs or is a banner
considered the same thing?
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 2 I
REGULAR MEETING
December 3, 2002
PAGE 610
Mr. Byde discussed temporary promotional signs, balloons and banners. Within
banners, there is no regulation on color or placement. There is also an allowance for a
temporary onsite for lease sign. A 16 sq ft sign is limited to 1 sign per I O0 feet of
frontage and has other stipulations such as text and phone numbers, etc.
The City Council discussed rigid signs, promotional signs, banners, etc. If it is a
temporary sign, these are easy to come down.
Mr. Byde talked about some special allowance with design criteria to amend monument
signs. One complex has added to their sign - vacancies. Staff could come up with some
design criteria to fit within standards and expedite the process. It could be slipped into a
slot.
Cm. Oravetz suggested adopting San Ramon's idea and send it along to the Planning
Commission and also incorporate Mr. Byde's suggestions.
Mr. Byde stated they could have hooks and have a sign which could be permanent as
part of their sign.
Mayor Lockhart stated she felt we also need to offer some kind of temporary signage
during the year.
Cm. Sbranti stated he has seen banners done with class. This is something the Planning
Commission could look at.
Mayor Lockhart stated we are actually offering them a combination.
On motion of Cm. Oravetz, seconded by Cm. Sbranti, and by unanimous vote, the
Council recommended that Staff take a report to the Planning Commission for
consideration and study, which looks at San Ramon's ordinance on monuments, (15
days on and 4 5 days off and allow 12 square feet), and then bring it back to the City
Council. ,
LICENSE AGREEMENT BE'r3NEEN
THE CITY OF DUBLIN AND ALAMEDA COUNTY TO MAINTAIN THE PORTION
OF THE IRON HORSE TRAIl. ON FROFEKTY OWNED BY ALAMEDA COUNTY
9:08 p.m. 8.1 (600-40)
Public Works Director Lee Thompson presented the Staff Report.
This License Agreement will give the City of Dublin a license over the 507 wide property
of the County for maintenance of the Iron Horse Trail and will allow assignment of the
rights of the license to the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD).
CITY COUNCIL MINLrrES
VOLUME 21
REGULAR MEETING
December B, 2002
PAGE 6 ] ]
RESOLUTION NO. 03-xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT
CHAPTER 8.84, SIGN REGULATIONS OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE)
WHEREAS, the comprehensive revision to the Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance 20-97) was
adopted by the City Council on September 2, 1997; and
WHEREAS, Staff has prepared a Staff report dated January 14, 2003, analyzing the
amendment to the Municipal Code (Zoning Ordinance); and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on said amendments to the
Municipal Code (Zoning Ordinance), on January 14, 2003, for which proper notice was given in
accordance with California State Law; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission at its January 14, 2003, meeting considered all written
and oral testimony submitted at the public hearing.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Dublin Planning Commission does hereby
recommend that the City Council find that the proposed amendment to Chapter 8.84, Sign Regulations
(PA 02-060), have no possibility for a significant effect on the environment (CEQA, Section
1506 l(b)(3)), that the amendments are consistent with the General Plan and any applicable Specific
Plan, and does recommend that the City Council amend said chapters of the Municipal Code (Zoning
Ordinance) as shown in Attachment 3 to the January 14, 2003, Planning Commission Staff report for
PA 02-060.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 14th Day Of January 2003.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
Planning Commission Chairperson
Planning Manager
G:\PA#\2002\02-060\PC reso 1-6-03.DOC
ATTACHMENT 3
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
AMENDING CHAPTER 8.84 SIGN REGULATIONS (ZONING ORDINANCE)
PA 02-060
WHEREAS, the City of Dublin has determined that the Sign Regulations of the Dublin
Municipal Code (Chapter 8.84) must be revised to more effectively regulate development within the
City; and
WHEREAS, On August 18, 1997, the City Council adopted Resolution 103-97 finding that the
Comprehensive Revision to the Zoning Ordinance was exempt from CEQA. Various changes to the
Municipal Code listed above would also not create environmental impacts. These changes are also
exempt from CEQA because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that such amendments
would have a significant effect on the environment (CEQA Guidelines, Section 15061(b)(3)); and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did hold a properly noticed pubic hearing on this project
on January 14, 2003, and did adopt Resolution 03-xx recommending that the City Council approve
amendments to Title 8 (Zoning Ordinance) of the Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, a properly noticed public hearing was held by the City Council on __; and
WHEREAS, a Staff Report was submitted recommending that the City Council approve the
Ordinance Amendment; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to section 8.120.050.B of the Dublin Municipal Code, the City Council
finds that the Ordinance Amendment is consistent with the Dublin General Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City Council did hear and use its independent judgment and consider all said
reports, recommendations and testimony hereinabove set forth.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Dublin does ordain as follows:
Section 1.
Section 8.84.020.B~ Sign Development Regulations Definitions, of the Dublin Municipal Code is
hereby added to read as follows and shall be re-lettered as necessary to accommodate the foregoing
amendments:
B. Apartment Cominunih'. The term Apartment Community shall mean an apartment project which
consists ora minimum of 8-apartment units located on the same lot, which are for rent only.
ATTACHMENT
Section 2.
Section 8.84.040~ Matrix A, Sign Development Regulations, Temporary Promotional,
MATRIX A
SIGN APPROVALS AND DECISIONMAKER AUTHORITY BY ZONING DISTRICT *
Sign Type A R-l, R-2, R- C-N C-O C-1 C-2 /VI-P, M-l,/Vi-2
M
Awning Z X BP BP BP BP BP
Bulletin Board BP BP BP BP BP BP BP
Coming Soon X X BP BP BP BP BP
Community ID X ZC ZC ZC ZC ZC ZC
Electronic Readerboard X X CUP(PC) CUP(PC) CUP(PC) CUP(PC) CUP(PC)
Freestanding 20' or less in Z X ZC X BP BP BP
bt.
Freestanding greater than X X X X SDR SDR SDR
20' in height
Grand-Opening X X ZC ZC ZC ZC ZC
Identification ** ZC/SDR ZC/SDR ZC/SDR ZC/SDR ZC/SDR ZC/SDR ZC/SDR
Master Sign Program SDR(ZA) X SDR(ZA) SDR(ZA) SDR(ZA) SDR(ZA) SDR(ZA)
Office Building Master 1D X X ZC ZC ZC ZC ZC
Off-Site Residential BP BP BP BP BP BP BP
Development Directional
Off-Site Temporary For Sale Z X ZC ZC ZC ZC ZC
or Lease
Open -House X Permitted X X X X X
Permanent Banner Sign X X X X SDR(ZA) SDR(ZA) SDR(ZA)
Projecting Y X BP BP BP BP BP
Service Station Display X X ZC X ZC ZC ZC
Structure
Service Station Price Sign X X ZC X ZC ZC ZC
Special Easement Z X ZC ZC ZC ZC ZC
Temporary Promotional ( 15- X X~_(.:'~*_ _*_*_ ZC ZC ZC ZC ZC I
Day)
Tenant Directory X X BP BP BP BP BP
Wall Z X BP BP BP BP BP
Window X X BP BP BP BP BP
Notes for Matrix A:
Z
BP
CUP
SDR
PC
ZA
ZC
X
Business Signs not exceeding an area of ten (l 0) square feet per side are permitted per Section
8.84.090. and subject to Building Permit
Permitted and subject to Building Permit
Conditional Use Permit Approval Required and subject to Building Permit
Site Development Review Approval by Staff Required and subject to Building Permit
Planning Commission is decisionmaker authority
Zoning Administrator is decisionmaker authority
Zoning Clearance by Staff Required and subject to Building Permit
Not Permitted
Matrix A does not reflect Exempt Signs in Section 8.84.140
A sign of up to 24 square feet on a side is allowed with a Zoning Clearance and a sign of up to 36
square feet on a side is allowed with a Site Development Review.
Only 'l"emporarv Banners. not exceeding 12-square feet, are allowed for apartment cmmnunities (see Section 8.84.020.B for
definition). All other temporary promolional signs are not allowed this zonimz district.
Planned Development signage is permitted by Section 8.84.100.
A Sign Exception to a regulation in this Chapter may be applied for per Section 8.84.200.
Section 3.
Section 8.84.040~ Matrix B, Sign Development Regulations, Temporary Promotional, of the Dublin
Municipal Code is amended to read as follows:
"Sign Type' Maximum Maximum Maximum Location Copy Additional
Section No. Number of Height Area per side ReqUirements Restrictions * Regulations *
signs in sq. ft. *
Temporary Per Zoning Per Zoning Per Zoning Only on site on Per Zoning Maximum of
Promotional Clearance. Clearance. Clearance. which business Clearance. 15-consecutive
Sec. 8.84.050.T Banner signs is located, calendar days
shall not be per permit; 30
larger than 30 consecutive
inches by 24 calendar day
feet. waiting period
between
Temporary One (1) Temporary permits.
Promotional Banner for
Sec. Apartment lemporary
8.84.050.T: Comnmnities Banners for
lemporary which shall Apartment
Banuer for not exceed 12 Communities
Apartment square feet. shall be
allowed 15
consecutive
calendar days
per permit~ 45
consecutive
calendar day
waiting period
bem'een
permits.
Section 4.
Section 8.84.050.T, Temporary Promotional Signs, of the Dublin Municipal Code is amended to read
as follows:
Temporary Promotional Signs. Temporary Promotional Signs permitted pursuant to a
Zoning Clearance may be placed on site for a maximum of fifteen (15) consecutive calendar
days per permit when used for special promotional events or needs. A minimum waiting
period of thirty (30) consecutive calendar days between permits is required, with the exception
of balloons as defined herein and temporary banners for apartment communities. A Banner
Sign shall not be larger than 30 inches by 24 feet in size.
()ne (1) temporary banner lbr apartment communities is permitted pursuant to a Zoning
Clearance and may be placed on site for a maximum of fifteen (15) consecutive calendar days
per permit when used for special promotional events or needs. A minimum waiting period of
3
forty-five (45) consecutive calendar days between permits is required. A temporary banner
sign for apartment communities shall not be larger than 12-square feet (see Section 8.84.020.B
for definition of apartment communities).
Any tethered or un-tethered balloon of greater than 15 inches in diameter shall be permitted
only as a temporary promotional sign and subject to a permit. All balloons shall be tethered to
the ground only with the bottom of the balloon on the ground and shall not be permitted to be
attached to any structure or vehicle. No permit(s) singularly or cumulative shall be issued that
allows any temporary promotional signs that include balloons for more than 21 days per
calendar year. Zoning clearance(s) may be issued for periods less than 15 days."
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
on this __ day of__, 2003, by the following votes:
Ayes.'
Noes:
Absent:
Abstain:
Attest:
City Clerk
Mayor
G:\PA#X2002\02-060\ORD-strikeout-underline 2.DOC
4