2014/01/23 Planning Commission Resolution (2)PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2014-04
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT
PARK, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING ADOPTION OF A NEGATIVE
DECLARATION AND APPROVAL OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER
17.04 (DEFINITIONS) AND CHAPTER 17.27 (SIGNS) OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE
WHEREAS, the applicant, City of Rohnert Park, filed Planning Application No.
PL2013-029MC proposing to amend the Rohnert Park Municipal Code ("RPMC") by amending
Chapter 17.04 (Definitions) and Chapter 17.27 (Signs) of the City of Rohnert Park Zoning
Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments to Chapter 17.04 (Definitions) and Chapter
17.27 (Signs) would update the sign regulations of the Zoning Ordinance and definitions related
to signage to clarify, simplify and streamline the regulations where possible, and strengthen
provisions where needed; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of the revisions are to better address new sign types and
technologies that have emerged over the past several years, provide more enforceable sign code
provisions, create a more user-friendly code that is more readable and easier to understand and
interpret; and
WHEREAS, the proposed changes to Chapter 17.04 (Definitions) are attached hereto as
Exhibit A and changes to Chapter 17.27 (Signs) are attached hereto as Exhibit B; and
WHEREAS, by separate action and resolution, the Planning Commission reviewed the
Negative Declaration, Exhibit C, prepared for the Project, recommended its certification by the
City Council; and has otherwise carried out all requirements for the Project pursuant to CEQA;
and
WHEREAS; pursuant to California State Law and the RPMC, public notice was
published in the Community Voice for a minimum of 20 days prior to the first public hearing and
a copy of the Negative Declaration and proposed code amendment have been available for public
review at City Hall; and
WHEREAS; on November 14, 2013 and January 23, 2014 the Planning Commission
held public hearings at which times interested persons has an opportunity to testify either in
support or opposition to the proposal; and
WHEREAS; the Planning Commission reviewed and considered the information
contained in Planning Application No. PL2013-029MC for the proposed amendments to Chapter
17.04 (Definitions) and to Chapter 17.27 (Signs) of the Zoning Ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Planning Commission of the City
of Rohnert Park makes the following findings, determinations and recommendations with respect
to the proposed amendments to Chapters 17.04 and 17.27 of the Zoning Ordinance;
Section 1. The above recitations are true and correct.
Section 2. The Planning Commission has recommended City Council approval of the
Negative Declaration for this Project.
Section 3. Findinis for Enactment of Amendments to Zoning Ordinance. The
Planning Commission hereby makes the following findings concerning amendments to Chapters
17.04 (Definitions) and 17.27 (Signs) of the Zoning Ordinance:
1. That the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance are consistent with the
General Plan 2020.
Criteria Satisfied. The proposed amendments are consistent with three specific
provisions related to signage contained within General Plan 2020.
1. Goal CD -J relating to Neighborhoods and Focus areas, states a goal to,
"Maintain the character of existing neighborhoods while undertaking
streetscape and signage improvements in selected areas."
2. Policy CD -56 relating to commercial centers, states that, "As part of the
Zoning Ordinance, maintain development standards for all development
within commercial districts that include, but are not limited to ... Signage
Requirements..."
Goal TR -A relating to the Street System, states a goal to, "Promote safe and
efficient vehicular circulation throughout Rohnert Park."
In part, the intent of the proposed amendments is to improve the appearance and
upkeep of signage used throughout the community. Sign provisions should also help
reduce visually clutter that could result from the placement of numerous unregulated
signs throughout the community. The proposed sign provisions help implement the
General Plan and specifically implement the Goals and Policies listed above.
2. That the proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance will be beneficial to the
public health, safety or welfare.
Criteria Satisfied. The proposed amendments will benefit the public by create a
more streamlined sign review process, reducing visual clutter from unregulated signs
and improving the appearance of signs installed within the community, and allowing
for appropriate directional signs to be placed on private property and, in limited cases,
on public property and rights-of-way to assist the public with way -finding. The
proposed amendment will not have any detrimental impacts and will have some
positive impacts to the public health, safety or welfare.
Section 4. Environmental Clearance.
I. An Initial Study was prepared for the project, and on the basis of substantial
evidence in the whole record before the Planning Commission, there is no substantial
evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment, therefore it is
recommended that the City Council adopt a Negative Declaration which reflects the lead
agency's independent judgment and analysis. The City of Rohnert Park Planning
Division shall maintain the record of the proceeding on which this decision is based.
2. The project will not result in an impact to endangered, threatened or rare species
or their habitats, including but not limited to plants, fish, insects, animals and birds.
There are no native species or plants, no unique, rare, threatened, or endangered species
of plants, no sensitive native vegetation on or adjacent to the site. A no effect
determination has been made by the Department of Fish and Game for a fee exemption
because the project will have no impact on wild life.
Section 5. A duly noticed public hearing concerning the proposed amendments was
held by the Planning Commission on November 14, 2013 and a second duly notice public
hearing was held on January 23, 2014.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Planning Commission
does hereby recommend that the City Council adopt Findings stated hereinabove and adopt an
ordinance amending the RPMC to amend Chapter 17.04 (Definitions) and Chapter 17.27 (Signs)
of the Zoning Ordinance, in the form provided in Exhibit A and Exhibit B.
DULY AND REGULARLY ADOPTED on this 23 t day of January, 2014 by the City
of Rohnert Park Planning Commission by the following vote:
E : NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN:
ADAMS N(/I<L NQ IE _ -1 BOVR" t4" LUDICE 1 HAYDON
CDairperson, Rohnert Park Planning Commission
ng ecru y
Exhibit A
Amendments to Chapter 17.04 (Definitions) of the Zoning Ordinance
Sign Code Definitions
17.04.030 Definitions of words and terms.
"Sign" means a device, display, figure, message, placard or structure, including its component
parts, situated indoors or outdoors, which is constructed, designed, intended or used to advertise
or otherwise attract or direct attention, provide information, to a business, event or location,
institution, person, product or service, or promotes the interests of any person, by any means
including, but not limited to, color, design, figures, illumination, letters, projected images or
words, and is visible from any public street, road, highway, right-of-way, or parking area.
Signage terminology used in this code includes the following:
1. "Abandoned" means any sign that advertises a business, lessor, owner, product, service or
activity that is no longer located on premises where the sign is displayed.
2. "Address" means a sign identifying the position of a land use in relationship to a public or
private street.
3. "Alteration" means any change of copy, sign face, color, size, shape, illumination,
position, location, construction, or supporting structure of any sign.
4. Area. See "Sign area."
5. "Attention attracting device" means animated or moving signs, including signs held by
mechanical mannequin or other devices, balloons, banners, beacons, blinking or traveling
lights, flashing messages, inflatable signs (and figures), pennants, search lights, spinners
and streamers, but excluding approved temporary banners, time/temperature devices, and
electronic message boards.
6. "Awning" means a sign attached to a roof -like projection from the wall of a building that
serves to shield a doorway or window from the weather and is often constructed of
weather resistant fabric.
7. Banner. See "Flags, banners or pennants."
8. "Campaign" means a temporary sign that is designed to support the passage or defeat of
any measure on a ballot or to influence voters with respect to the nomination, election,
defeat, or removal of a candidate from public office at any national, state, or local
election.
9. "City entry" means a public sign located at specific entry points to the city of Rohnert
Park.
10. "Commemorative" means a sign which commemorates the historical status and/or date of
erection.
26. Height, sign. See "Sign height."
27. "Illegal sign" means: (a) any sign originally erected or installed without first complying
with all structural, locational, design, building, and electrical regulations in effect at the
time of its construction or installation; (b) any commercial sign that is not maintained, or
is not used to identify or advertise an ongoing business, occupancy, product, good or
service available on the site of the sign for more than 90 days; (c) any unsafe sign; (d)
any legal nonconforming sign that has not been removed following the expiration of any
applicable amortization period provided in this code; and (e) any sign that is in violation
of the provisions of Chapter 17.27(Signs).
28. "Inflatable device" means an object that is filled with a gas, including CO2.
29. "Internal illumination" means the lighting of an object from within the interior so that
light rays go through the face of the sign. This does not include a sign with a light source
that is attached to the face of the sign and is perceived as a design element of the sign.
30. "Live/work" means a sign that identifies the location of a live/work unit within a mixed-
use or similar type development.
31. "Maintenance, normal" means the painting and cleaning of signs and/or the replacement
of like parts of a nonstructural nature e.g., lights, panels, trim pieces and other similar
items.
32. Marquee. See "Theatre, marquee."
33. "Mural" means a two dimensional piece of art which is applied to the flat surface or wall
of a building.
34. "Neon" means a light source that is generated by inserting electrical energy into a
chemically inert gas.
35. "Noncommercial message" means any wording, logo or other representation that does not
directly or indirectly, name, advertise or calls attention to a commercial or industrial
business, product, good, service or other commercial or industrial activity.
36. "Noncommercial sign" means a sign that does not name, advertise or call attention to a
commercial or industrial business, commodity, product, good, service or other
commercial or industrial activity for a commercial or industrial purpose.
37. "Nonconforming" means an advertising structure or sign which was lawfully erected and
maintained in conformance with the requirements in effect at the time, and which has
subsequently come under new amended requirements and no longer complies with the
requirements.
51. "Sign face" means that portion of a sign intended to be viewed from one direction at a
time.
52. "Sign height" means the vertical distance from the lowest point of the base of the sign to
the highest point of the structure, where the lowest point of the base of the sign structure
does not include fill, planters or other materials that artificially increase the sign height.
53. "Sign program" means a process for reviewing and approving nonresidential or mixed
use signage for larger sites and buildings, and for properties with multiple tenants for the
purpose of ensuring aesthetic compatibility and equitable signage area.
54. "Sign structure" means the supporting framework or bracing of a sign and incidental to
the sign display.
55. "Subdivision" means a sign that identifies a subdivision project with units for sale.
56. "Temporary" means a sign intended to be displayed for a limited period of time and
capable of being viewed at a building frontage, including but not limited to: construction
and subdivision signs, campaign signs, , real estate signs, and special event signs.
57. "Theatre marquee"means a sign that is attached to or otherwise made part of a permanent
roof -like structure and projects beyond the building wall in the form of a large canopy to
provide protection from the weather.
58. "Three-dimensional" means a sign that has a relief image on its surface that exceeds six
inches.
59. "Time/temperature" means the area of any time and/or temperature device incorporated
into a sign shall not be included in the calculation of total sign area.
60. "Unsafe sign" means a sign posing an immediate peril or reasonably foreseeable threat of
injury or damage to persons or property on account of the condition of the sign structure
or its mounting mechanism.
61. "Vehicle" means a sign that is used or intended for use as a portable sign and is towed or
affixed to a vehicle and used to display commercial or noncommercial messages
primarily for advertising purposes unrelated to the principal use of the vehicle.
62. "Wall" means a sign that is attached or painted on the exterior wall of a structure with the
display surface of the sign approximately parallel to the building wall.
63. "Window" means a sign posted, painted, placed, or affixed on the interior or exterior of a
window exposed to public view, and includes an interior sign that faces a window
exposed to public view and is located within two feet of the window. This definition
Exhibit B
Amendments to Chapter 17.27 (Signs) of the Zoning Ordinance
Chapter 17.27 - SIGNS
Sections:
17.27.010 - Purpose..
The eeune4purposes of the eity of Reline ft Dark establis e these sign standards that are intended
teand regulations include:
A. Protect the public safety and welfare by avoiding hazardous distractions or
conditions to pedestrian and vehicle traffic through careful placement, orientation,
design and maintenance of signage_
R Ensure that signage is clearly stated, appropriately scaled, and in harmony with
the character and appearance of the building or use that is being identified—,a-nd.
C=Apply;a FaW standard equally amengsign awam and these whe wish to U
C. Maintain and enhance the city's appearance by regulating the design, character,
location,number, type quality of materials, size, illumination and maintenance of
signs.
D. Protect residential districts and adioining nonresidential districts from adverse
impacts of excessive numbers or sizes of nearby sif�s.
E. Gencrally limit commercial signage to on-site locations in order to protect the
aesthetic environment from the visual clutter associated with the unrestricted
proliferation of signs, while providing channels of communication to the public.
F. Limit the number and size of signs to levels that reasonable allow for the
identification of institutional or commercial locations and the nature of the use,
husiness or services provided at such location.
G. Regulate the number and size's- ofsipans accor_ dineio standgrd.i consistent_ with the
Wipes of establishments in each zoning- district or in different portions of a zoning
district.
1-1. Avoid unnecessary and time consuming approval requirements for certain minor
or temporary signs that do not require review for compliance with the City's
building and electrical codes while_ limiting the size and number of such sibls so
as to minimize visual clutter.
Respect and protect the right of Free speech by sign display, while reasonahly
regulating the structural locational and other aspects of signs not related to
communication, generally for the public-health, safety, welfare and sl3eeifically to
B. Owner's. Consent required. The consent of the nroj}erty owner, designated ageni
or person in control or passession of the property is required be#'ore any sign may
be erected on any private property within the city,
C. Noncommercial Signs. Nancommercial signs are allowed wherever commercial
sigpagc is permitted and are subject to the same standards and total maximum
allowances per site r building of each sign type specified in this chapter. A sign
permit or sign program approval is required for apermanent noncommerc_ial_s'
only when a permanent commercial sign has not been Previously 4pproved. For
purposes of this chanter-all noncommercial messages are deemed to be "an-site."
regardless of location.
D. Substitution of Noncommercial Messages. Subject to the consent of the pro=M
owner or person in control or possession of the property, a noncoin.mercial
message of anv type may be substituted for all or Part of the commercial or
noncommercial message on any sign allowed under this chap(er. No s ecial or
additional perinit is required to substitute a noncommercial message for anoY ther
message on a permitted sign, provided the sign structure is already approved or
exempt from the sign permit requirement and no structural or electrical chane is
made. When a noncommercial messaec is substituted for any other message,
however, the sien is still sujb ect to the satne design, locational and structural
relations (e-g., color, materials, size, height, illumination, maintenance,
duration of display, etc.) as well as all building and electrical code requirements,
as would apply if the sign were used to display a commercial message. In the
event of any_perc_eived or actual conflict between the general provisions of this
subsection and any otheu- specific provisions in this chapter. the provisions of this
subsection will prevail.
E. Substitution of Commercial Messages. The substitution of one commercial
message for another commercial messase is not automatically allowed nor is the
free substitution of a_commercial message in a place where only a noncommercial
message is allowed. In addition, no off-site commercial messages may be
substituted for on-site commercial messages...
F. Legal Nature of Sign Rigbts and Duties. All ri hts, duties and responsibilities
related to permanent signs attach to the land on which the sign is. erected or
displaved and run with the land or personal property. The city may demand
compliance with this chapter and with the terms of any sign permit from the s
permit holder, the owner of the sign, the property owner or person in control or
possession of thepertytor the person erecting the sign.
17.27.040 Sign permit and sign program requirements.
A. General. Unless specifically exempted ingest '
a° ''.,�, 'gym' Section 17.27.050
stall be installed o oato,l altered less
(Exempi)�-r}fr Si ns a sign ep rmit or �si�n
program approval ismust be secured for all signs, in accordance with this chapter.
b. Detailed elevations showing the proposed signage, including the
dimensions and locations;
c. A detailed plan of the proposed signage, including dimensions,
proposed illumination and method of attachment or mounting;
d. Samples and descriptions of the proposed sign copy, colors and
materials;
1—Rtaatat raphs si a4i exf sti p si�flage ar}d uildir�gi sa F ssi a areas w kaere pr {tesed-signa"i"e
e. A completed construction permit application, as needed, in
conformance with Rehn^•t Park Mun,, pal Code, TOtIe 5Title 15
(Buildings and Construction- of tliis municipal_ code..
f. Such additional information requested by the department as may he
necessary to make aiully informed decision, process the application
and make the required findings.
3. The manager will initially determine whether the application contains all Elle
information and items required by this chapter and may be deemed complete.
4. All notices required by this chapter are deemed giyen upon the date any such
notice is either ddeposited in the United State mail, the date upon which
personal service of such notice is provided or the date that the notice is
electronically transmitted (ifapplicab le).
5. No application will be accepted if:
a. The applicant has installed a sign in violation of the provisions of this
chapter and, the time of submission of the application, each illegal
sign has not been le-Ralized, removed or included in the applicatioat.
b. The apptication is substantially the same as an application previously_
denied, unless: (i) 12 months have elapsed since the elate of the last
application, or (iia new evidence or proof of chap ed conditions is
furnished in the new application.
c. The applicant has not submitted for processing or obtained anyr
applicable permit for the underlying; use of the property.
G. Findings. A sign permit or sign program that is reviewed in compliance with this
chapter shallmay be approved only after the following findings and
determinations are made by the appropriate review authority:
1. That the proposed location of the use is in accordance with the objectives of
the zoning ordinance and the purposes of the district in which the sign is
located;
2. That the proposed location of the sign and the conditions under which the sign
would be operated and maintained will not be detrimental to the public health,
safety or welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the
vicinity;_
3. The--prepesed-iign-is in sc+krt�t tie,I- a,e witij t#re- tri t tl��
Zefling ede
EH. Approval Period, Expiration and Time Extensions. A sign permit or sign program
approval shallwill expire one Myear from itsthe date of issuance unless the sign
or at least one sign in an approved sign program has been installed in
accordance with the conditions of approval. If the sign permit or sign program is
for a building or shopping center under construction, the one year approval period
will commence on the date of issuance of the fust Certil"icaie of Occupancy for
the project.
1. Prior to expiration; of a sign permit or program the applicant may apply for an
extension of up to one additional year. The extension shArequest will be
reviewed by the review authority that acted on the original request.
2. The permit or approval sha-ltwill be null and void if the zoning ordinance
changes significantly prior to the installation of the sign to a point that given
the new regulations in the zoning ordinance such a sign would not be
permitted.
1. Revocation. The initial reviewing authority may revoke any sign permit or sib
approval according to the process outlined in Section 17.25.140 through
17.25.1448 upon refusal of tateern mit or approval holder to comply with the
provisions of this chapter after written notice of noncompfianee and at least 15
days opportunity to cure.
17.27.040050 - Exempt signs.
The following signs are allowed without a sign permit or sign approval provided that they
otherwise comply with the city's design guidelines and this chapter. A sign which is considered
exempt in accordance with this chapter in no way eliminates the need to otherwise obtain a
construetiertbuilding or encroachment permit when required.
I. 4lteA single flag that does not exceed one-fourth the height of the flag pole;
and two or more flags combined that do not exceed one-half the height of the
flag pole.
2.—Residentit#1•Properties in residential zoning districts sha44may have no liege
than one flag per property and the flirt pole shallthat does not exceed
twelvel2 feet in height, and.
3. 4Nenr iEleatia-1 Properties in nonresidential tonin districts shallmay have
no more than three flags per property and the flag pole shallmay not
exceed thirty LZfeet in height.
R. if taller than twelve (12) feet in height, the flagpole must be constructed
oF metal, fiberglass or carbon liber. Wood flag, poles taller than twelve 11.21
feet are not permitted.
5_ According to federal fltig guidelines, the United States_ flag should only be
d%s2laved from sunrise to sunset unless properly illuminated for nighttinle
visibility. If illuminatccl,_Ilxg, lightittg shall be directed and/or shielded to
avoid off-site glare.
G. Smaller flags displayed during daylight_ hours for Federal holidays fe.g.
Veterans Day, Memorial My, etc.) are permitted without limitation..
G. Live/Work. Signs that ;eloeation-of-a#-eeet#pwien in -1 velwork-t#rtit
pravided-tl+e-sign tmet ne-Such signs s may not exceed two (2) -,square
feet, sfeet and must be attached to the wall of the building in which the use is
housed and is-nonil-lutni-hated-may not be illuminated. For building groups that
involve €etAhree 3 or more live/work units, an integrated sign program shall
beis required in accordance with( -134 Section 17.27.040.0 (Sign Programs).
4s.^y.�Yanel--A�'Faiattertant�-a+�d—AlonaE€�uctur�#E--+Ulcrclifie#iticaF�'FI�e--f�lforvirtg
ma4vtenan r madifications-are t##ltw,�c4-Fa#�less Sestion
Pemk and Sign Progfain Requirements) as fbllows�
i. tetlifleatiE�t tc �igF# try c�F�r f Fri#tg sigt or eha#ages-terf�G e4ee-of-eop"I"
eenferming „ 1,., able
2.
ravtrt#eft#+tleeliFieatiaems a€tlaeaeeer eep5`e€�##astingeoFrrFFertai+Ftg sir
3. Aler##F#1 FaF_'w' euoltFear#tt�F#g#gtaF#d ;Fg#t avpy.
1=1:-P-rivate-Signs. SSigns-regtiired•bylaw; or -signs dislrlayetl en-privnte-propet-ty-which
are-direeteEl to va e al
weli`are--&x€ mples inelude, but afe no! 'mike, •e. beware --e _g siign"O
iii. Removal is required within fifteen 15 days after the noticed public
hearing.
e. Verification. On or before the required date of posting, the applicant or
applicant's representative sh"must submit to the department a signed
affidavit of the installation of an on-sitepublic bearing sign.
Temporary Signs.
1. _Construction and Subdivision Identification Signs. dist iet t
irCen tfy a ac�ngtr-tietivrs or-s �bclivi ie�r l�ra�eet mite Sucb si gs are permitted in
all zoning districts subject to the following:
a. "*m4easi-en_-00ne sign eom* ting-tltWy! venot exceeding 32 square feet
per site. For each site larger than ten acres, one additional thirty 32
square foot sign per ten acre increment is allowed;
b. One sign eenutining-t+ennot exceeding six (6 square feet for each model
home and located on the site of each model home in the subdivision;
c."—,+; at� One fl) offsite directional signs not exceeding ten 00)
square feet. Any off-site directional sign eentain ng ten square feet is
allewed.may be required to be large enough to accommodate more than
one (1 ) constructions or subdivision proiect. The location and number of
direction signs shallwill be determined by the $ening
administrater.manager
2. Campaign afA-Eleetion Signs. Signs thatSuch signs are related to public
sult'ee_t to the following:
cion nl�iial_l _bl 7.^
�,. 1>le eanaigttoeles��rsi^� a. Campaign signs are not
permitted on any public property or within any public right-of-way. In
order to assist the public in locating public property, the city sha-4will
make available, through the ^FA^o of the Rohne.+ Park city manager, a
map showing publicly owned real property within the cityt44kohneo
-park. As to those areas of right-of-way or other small parcels wherein it is
difficult to determine the line of demarcation between public and private
property, the city sign enforcement authority, as designated by the city
manager, shallwill inquire of the nearest adjacent private property owner
or owners as to whether they have given permission to the posting of the
sign. If the owner or owners reply in the negative it shallwill be
conclusively presumed that the sign was posted in violation of this section.
If the nearest owner or owners indicate that permission was given to post
the sign then the city shallwill ascertain by survey or other accurate
method as to whether the sign is posted on public or private property-and
11
b. Residential Open House Signs. Signs directing customers to an open
house may not exeeedingexceed two square feet which may contain
the words "Open House" together with an arrow indicating the direction to
the open house between the hours of eight a,m. and eight p.m. No more
than one sign per direction may be placed at any intersection.
c. "Open House" Real Estate Sign. One (1) sign not exceeding sixes square
feet may be placed on the property coinciding with the hours of open
viewing. The sign may also contain the name of the selling firmsales
person or firm sponsoring the open house.
d. Nonresidential Real Estate Signs. One (1) sign not exceeding Ewertty20
square feet per frontage that is located on a nonresidential property being
advertised. There shall be a maximum of one (I), two (2) foot by three (3)
foot window sign allowed for each vacancy. All signs shall be non-
illumjnated. Clue (1) sign shall be allowed per fipntagc. Sighs exceeding
these limitations may be administratively approved by the Development
Services Manager. All signs and sign structures shall be maintained in
good condition and free of graffiti.
5. Seasonal Decorations. Decorations and displays related to locally recognized
holidays including, but not limited to: Christmas, Thanksgiving and Fourth of
July. The decorations may be installed up to thirty days prior to the holiday
and shall be removed no later than ten days after the holiday.
6. Special Event Signs. Signs or banners that advertise and publicize special
events, including, but not limited to civic events, special events for non-profit
organizations (must be Rohnert Park basedeivie , or the
event must be in Rohnert Park), grand openings, religious services and athletic
sign -trpsgD upss are permitted in accordance with the following standards or
guidelines:
a. A maximum of two special event signs eentaining „ to twenty fiYa)lot
exceeding thirty two (32) square feet each, located on the property where
the event is taking place. Except that one banner for eivieVecial events
may stretch across City Center Drive and/or Lynne Conde Way; and up to
feurthree3 banners not exceeded thirty two (32) square Feet each and no
more than- one (1) at each location for eivieV cial events may be placed
at the following locations:
i.►— (:; 60
thr gh 5050 Ce ffiflieree Boulevard); ;;i. Southwest corner of
Redwood Drive and Wilfred Avenue I" 0s 4)5.4=iii;
13
C-C:. Flags unless considered exempt under Section 17.27.040 (Exempt Signs). F
(Flags and Flag Poles) or pecificaIly permitted as part of a sign program or a site
plan anti architectural review entitlement.
D. Internally illuminated cabinet signs, except where a dark, opaque background is
used in conjunction with light, translucent lettering.
ED. Obscene Signs. Si-hat ihielkide material • t}��apt��k��rwinsr3�4y i�tk
ptufien4-interesi iro se t+�l cc tset-tlel k c� l ser+lae seacctal s rteivaE its a patea�Ely
offensive way. aqd lack Serivu~+-Iiterai=y ar�i�#ic ;poli#lest o��;ei�>t+lse valtt�
FE. Off -Site Signs (Billboards). si n-idanti#yang a;Fse laaili€y;-serviee-or product
fhttt t r3et lu; l si�ltl er rtaarn rre�t�ndie sarne premises ai the si
GF. Portable Signs. °fie sigp-eF�tlaer Yig att�tc3kec# to tevic u to at w t#e
sib "o 13c+ rolled oredetrnnd �rceept-as ®tt erwise atte�ett-H� tkt et�aapte
HG. Roof !h 47-� excestl when
approved in conjunction with site plan and architectural review for a building-,-me
sign tzal4 lye it :Eaticct- ikltave tt r for os� z +r{ lie pa3tt € gat a hui4ding-
114. Signs in the Public Right-of-Way.- Signs that are placed in a street right-of-way
without a valid encroachment permit, except as otherwise allowed in this chapter.
This includeS temporary signs displayed can public property, in the public right-of-
way, utility pole- fence, tree or other vegetation.
H. Signs located in a vision triangle as described in Section 17.14.040 (Clear Vision
Triangle).
KC Vehicle Signs. This includes any vehicle sign parked within the public right-of-
way or in a location on private property that is visible from a public thoroughfare.
K. Signs which resemble any official marker erected by the city, state, or any
governmental agency, or which, by reason of position shape. color or
illumination would conflict with the proper functioning of any_tratiiic Si al or
would be a hazard to vehicular or pedestrian traffic_
L. Signs which produce odor, sound smoke or fire or other emissions.
M. A vehicle or ettuipment with mast arms or booms in an elevated position with
intent to advertise.
N. Signs painted on fences, walls and roofs.
0. Statuary or representative lures 1kspd• Fear ndve isin u o eti.
P Handheld si
15
Development or Specific Plan may not he illuminated between 10 p.m. and 7
a.m.
5. No movement or apparent movement or change in intensity of illumination is
permitted. Rapidly flashina,or stroboscopic lip
lttingis also prohibited.
D. Sign Location.
1. All signs shal-lmust be located on the same site as the subject of the sign-i.e.
on site), except as otherwise allowed by this chapter.
2. No sign shallmay be located in the public right-of-way, except as otherwise
allowed by this chapter and the f llo ing.
a-siap-�+ig�-ire;Stu#l�eci�V-a--}3t+blic-tt`ntsr.it-ean�atty;
b.-1~ rgeF3e�r-wa�irrg-tiigliffierected�y-a-�ersxnent�ageney�x+lri�-t�ti��
saert�-nr-�ac��rastc�-dei+tg-r�i+ti��ized-+voFk-witliitrtk�e-public-rib`s
e tien-sigwofa publieor eetili�y coca r r!` regart4i gl it ripe poles
.,the,- f ilia;
such asd:i^o .iigm;i a -aeted 1'y or d.i3--hallal-l= -1{-- klV@f°nFll{'}1t-+a ,@i Q"f-i1p
eenvey public information, identify lattl ep ty post leg noflees or
direec�regtalate�edetilrianer,fel�irlt�-tre€Fi dens°
3 The loe tion of all sigiisshall Signs must_ be installed in a €ashienlocation
and manner that ensures that:
a. They do not block the sight lines of existing signs on adjacent properties;
and
b. Pedestrian and vehicular safety is maximized: arid,
o---�albacl�atx�a-are-aptzr�te+-fi3� .,.�1-��e�tanFli+�gmF fxtrjec�Eiag�i�nr-
17.27.080 - S. Sign Maintenanee, Constrtdetien and Design. design, materials,
construction, and maintenance standards
All signs shalimust be maintaixeddesigned, constructed and desipedmaintained in compliance
with the following standards:
17
H. Every sign and all parts, portions and materials must be main[ained in good repair.
The display surface of all signs must be kept clean, neativnainted. and free from rust,
cracking, peeling, corrosion or other slates of disrepair. This maintenance obligation
tion
includes the replacement of_malfunctioning or burned out lambs or lighting,
replacement of broken faces, repainting of rust, chipped or peeling structures or faces
within 15 da s followin x written notification by the city. When there is a change or
discontinuance of a business or occupancy such that a sin no longer represents a
place of business or cu ancy, the sign must he removed or the name of the _nriar
business or occupant either removed. or the sig_ n face covered in a manner that blends
with the Building or supporting structure.
1• Within 30 days of the removal ora sign from a building wall or from the grounds of
the premises if a freestandLng sign, the wall of the building or the grounds of the
premises must be repaired and restored to remove any visible damage or blemish lett
by the removal of the sign.
17.27.070090 - Zoning district sign standards.
Each sign shallmust comply with the sign area, height and number provided by this section
except as otherwise provided.
Table 17.27-2: Standards for Signage in R -L*, R -M, R -H, R-M/M-H and P-1 Districts
Sign Type Maximum Maximum Number Maximum Sign Area
Allowed Height
Wall mount Below edge of 1 of either sign type per, 16 St' MIt' imLH-.3. each sign; 32
roof street frontages square-€eetsf. total for all signs.
Freestanding 6 feetft. entfanee'
Applies to m,u+y,attached single family, public and quasi -public land uses only in an R -L
zoning district—+-_
Table 17.27-3: Standards for Signage in C -N, C -O, M -U and OS -EC Districts
Sign Type Allowed Maximum
Maximum Maximum Sig
dHeight
Number Area i
f'red.Stt�.I1S l.11' '�il'[3ki31Ei-i tk3it�fi---iHiEl—cGreu d-
g ft.
I per street 5 sf.
�.1 2. per linear -ft.-
Formatted: space Before: Auto, After: Auto
Roof
frontage.
of property Lille '
Inserted Cells
i
adjoiningstreet. reet.
Deleted Cells
Building Mounted (ground floor)
1 4"--tx#gw -3 of
sf ems;
s
Deleted Cells
_15,
Formatted: Space Before: Auto, After: Auto
Deleted Cells
19
Suspended Below eave
or
canopy; and
at least 8 ft.
above a
walking
surface.
Wall Below edge
of roof.
rTemporary/Portable 1'7z'7.nAA-1 �errlP—S-ignoSection
17.27.050 (H) (Exempt Signs)
Windowc ,-, 3708%Section 17.27.100 (J) (Special
Sign Type Requirements)
S1Buildinl2 Mounted (second floor and ahorre) — —
Awning Below edge 1 sign per tenant 12 sf for each
Projecting of roof. space. tenanted. plus 1
directory sign not to
'Wall exceed 12 sf per
floor to identify
upper floor
occupants.
Window
(Special
Sign Type Requirements)
Table 17.27-4 Standards for Signage in C-R, I -L, and l-L/O Districts
Sign Type Allowed Maximum
Height
Ground ed and 8 ft.
(Ground
#loerFreestanding
Building Mounted .
(&round floor)Awning r
Maximum Number I Maximum Sign Area
.1 11er sweet Ysf for each linear ft of ,..- Inserted Cells
property line adjoining inserted Cells
street.
iar Deleted Cells
newel s y a building frontage; 0.5 sf ` Deleted Cells
~«: ~.nry street fre~tage -Froer eaeh linear ft of ,-------
Deleted Cells
!:«
case e tr.„~ , property line —adjoining
sign) street, street hieheve_ le...
1 of an), allewed-4gn the maximum total—,ignat-e
21
See-ondBuilding Mounted [ _Ccoial floor and abov i
I- - -
Awning Below edge of 1 sign per tenant space.
Projecting roof.
Wall
J Window
- -- gectien 1-7.2-7:080(JSection 17.27.100
Requirements)
((art;-76+2-(part)�-2006)
17.27.0MI00 - Special sign type requirements.
12 sf for each tenant-aod-.
dus
1 directory sign not to
exceed 12 sf per floor to
identify upper floor
occupants.
L} (Special Sign Type
This section is intended to be used in conjunction with other standards contained in this chapter.
F6 znning admefaistetor-or tlesigr►ee 1'ltemanatrer is authorized to issue a sign permit for the
following signs consistent with the regulations of this chapter, the city's design guidelines and
any required building permit is obtained.
A. Awning Signs.
1. Area. Not more than twenty-five 25 percent of the awning face or twenty-
five Z5hsquare feet whichever is less. Sig width on the !:loncd Face ur
valance is limited to eighty five (S5)percent of the awning width, an the
sloped awning surface the maximum size of logos limited to two sguare feet.
2. Height. Below edge of roof.
3. Illumination. External lighting only. Back -lit or translucent awnings are not
allowed.
4. Location. One or two story buildings only.
5. Information limited to the name. loco, and tvne of business.
G. On the valance the heir -ht of the letters should be limited to 80 Percent of the
valance height.
B. Directory Signs.
23
2. Height. Determined by conditional use permit.
3. Illumination. Determined by conditional use permit.
4. Location. Determined by conditional use permit.
G. Neon Signs and Tubing. Notwithstanding neon signs and tubing that are approved
in conjunction with site plan and architectural review for a building, neon signs
and tubing Rmy he used in hinited qklantkiesare subject to a cond'u_ianal use permit
in the C-R, C -N, l-L/O and M -U zoning districts.
1. Area. Determined by conditional use permit.
2. Height. Determined by conditional use permit.
3. Illumination. Determined by conditional use permit.
4. Location. Determined by conditional use permit.
H. Projecting and Suspended Signs.
1. Area. No more than nine square feet.
2. Height. Below the edge of roof and not to exceed the top plate of the first
floor of a multistoried building. Minimum clearance of ei&ten 10 feet
between the bottom of the sign and the finished grade below. The clearance
may he reduced to eight (8)iI the sjn is suspended below an awningjyortico
or other roof overhang.
3. Illumination. Internal or external lighting allowed subject to review.
4. Location. No more than thirty-six inches of sign may project over a public
right-of-way or easement. Signs which project over a public right-of-way or
easement will need to secure an encroachment permit.
I. Theatre Marquee Signs. In addition to the signage allowed in Section
17.27.07W90 (Zoning District Standards) a sign with changeable copy that does
not exceed sixty-flrveO square feet may be permitted upon approval of a
conditional use permit.
J. Time and Temperature Devices. In addition to the signage allowed in Section
17.27,670090 (Zoning District Standards) a time and temperature device that does
not exceed eight square feet may be permitted.
K. Wall Signs.
25
4. U,„es-s�The sign is amortized as noted in accordance with the Amortization
Schedule Table.
Table 17.27-5: Amortization Schedule
200% Original Value (dollars)
Amortization Period (years)
< 500
Two
500 to < 1,000 Three
1,000 to < 3,000
Five
3,000 to < 6,000
Eight
6,000 and above
Ten
B. Multiple Signs. For the purpose of determining value when more than one
nonconforming sign is located on a site, the original values shall bewillbe
aggregated.
C. Value Determination. The original value of a sign shall be determined by any one
of the following methods:
1. Appraisal in writing by a sign manufacturer;
2. Bill of sale; or
3. Description schedule from federal or state income tax return.
17.27.4•0G--laadortearient:120- Removal ofsian,
A.—A-peFsorr wl vio-lates tory seaEb t� flf tf is eh:�I3te shall be gtril€y of arrirtfraecic�r�
andA. Unsafe Signs. Anv unsafe sian may be removed by the city without prior
notice. Alternatively, the manager may issue a notice of violation and Live the
Permit holder, propert_v__owner ors7et tion in possession and control of the property
15 days to cure the violation. In the case of an unsafe sign removcd by the city.
the costs of such removal and storage will be borne by the permit holder, property
owner, or person in possession and control of the property, as applicable, and may
be collected by the city in the same manner as it collects any other debt or
obbgation. No unsafe sigg that has been removed and stored by the city may be
released until the costs of_removal-and storage have been paid. if an unsafe sin
remains unclaimed for a period of 30 days after notice of removal is sent to the
permit holder, property owner, or person in possession and control of the
pro rty, it will be deemed to be unclaimed personal properly and may be
disposed of in accordance with applicable law.
27
Exhibit C
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
ICJ
QpKNERT p,4k
-A LI FOR14!��
62
INITIAL STUDY & NEGATIVE DECLARATION
SOURCES
The following documents are referenced information sources utilized by this analysis: N/A
2 ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project,
involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact." A more detailed
assessment may be found on the following pages.
❑ Aesthetics
❑ Biological Resources
❑ Greenhouse Gases
❑ Land Use & Planning
❑ Population & Housing
❑ Transportation & Circulation
1 DETERMINATION
On the basis of this initial study:
❑ Agriculture ❑ Air Quality
❑ Cultural Resources ❑ Geology/Soils
❑ Hazards & Hazardous Materials ❑ Hydrology/Water Quality
❑ Energy & Mineral Resources
❑ Public Services
❑ Utilities/Service Systems
❑ Noise
❑ Recreation
❑ Mandatory Findings of
Significance
X I find that the Proposed Project COULD NOT has a significant effect on the environment,
and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that although the Proposed Project could have a significant effect on the
environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the
project have been made by or agreed to by the applicant. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION will be prepared.
❑ I find that the Proposed Project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
❑ I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact' or
"potentially significant unless mitigated" on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has
been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards,
and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as
described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required,
but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.
❑ I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately
in an earlier General Plan EIR pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided
9
2 BACKGROUND AND INTRODUCTION
Regulations relating to signs within the City of Rohnert Park are included within Chapter 17.27
Signs of the Zoning Ordinance (Title 17 of the Municipal Code). These provisions apply to all
signs within the City unless listed as exempt by this chapter. The purpose of the revisions are
to better address new sign types and technologies that have emerged over the past several
years, provide more enforceable sign code provisions, create a more user-friendly code that is
more readable and easier to understand and interpret.
3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposal is to revise portions of Chapter 17.27 Signs of the Zoning Ordinance. The
following changes are proposed within each section of the chapter.
• 17.27.010 (Purpose). Purpose statements have been added to clarify that the
regulations are intended protect residential districts, allow for reasonable advertising
opportunities and that regulations are variable based on the applicable zoning district.
17.27.020 (Applicability). The current code "exempts" sign copy from regulation.
The proposed code language eliminates this reference to "sign copy," since the sign
regulation do, in fact, apply directly or indirectly to sign copy in several instances.
• 17.27.030 (Sign permit and sign program requirements). A number of changes are
proposed to this chapter to increase the effectiveness of sign regulations:
o The cases where a sign program (versus a sign permit) will be required are
increased in the proposed ordinance. The proposed language will require a
sign program to all non-residential projects with three or more tenants (instead
of four) and any commercial building over 20,000 square feet or occupying two
or more acres.
o Additional findings have been added which will need to be made by the
approval authority related to the following topics: the appropriate amount of
information that can be included on a sign; the graphic composition and the
appropriate use of color; and compatibility of signs with building architecture.
o The requirement for photographs of the existing condition has been removed.
o Code language has been clarified about when an "approval period" begins and
when an extension may be requested. This will start a one-year clock upon the
issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.
• 17.27.040 (Exempt signs). A number of clarifications have been made to this section
and some additional exempt signs have been added, including:
o Limitations have been added on directional signs: one permitted per entrance,
four square feet in area; and five feet in height. If a directional sign is setback
more than 100 feet from a public way, then the area can be increased to ten
square feet in area.
5
separate out free-standing signs from building mounted signs. As a result the amount
of signage permitted per parcel has increased slightly and the number of signs
permitted per parcel has increased by one (since free-standing signs are now separate
from building mounted signs). A clarification has been added to building mounted
signs on the second floor or above. The existing code only assumes two story
buildings and does not address multi -story structures. The change will allow a larger,
building mounted directory sign for each floor.
• 17.27.080 (Special sign type requirements). This section includes provisions that
apply to specific sign types. Only a few changes are proposed. Additional limits have
been placed on the size of awning signs (e.g. logos, graphics and lettering). This sign
is limited to the business name, logo and business type.
4 DISCRETIONARY ACTION
Implementation of the proposed project would require the following discretionary actions by
the City of Rohnert Park Planning Commission and City Council:
• Adoption of a resolution by the Planning Commission to recommend that the City
Council adopt this negative declaration along with the sign code text amendments; and
• Adoption of this negative declaration by the City Council; and
• Adoption of the sign code text amendments.
5 ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
The following section adapts and completes the environmental checklist form presented in
Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines. The checklist is used to describe the impacts of the
proposed project.
For this checklist, the following designations are used:
Potentially Significant Impact: An impact that could be significant, and for which no
mitigation has been identified. If any potentially significant impacts are identified, an EIR must
be prepared.
Potentially Significant With Mitigation Incorporated: An impact that requires mitigation to
reduce the impact to a less -than -significant level.
Less -Than -Significant Impact: Any impact that would not be considered significant under
CEQA relative to existing standards.
No Impact: The project would not have any impact.
I. AESTHETICS
Would the project:
7
Issues
a. Convert Prime Farmland, Unique
Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide
Importance (Farmland), as shown on
the maps prepared pursuant to the
Farmland Mapping Program of the
California Resources Agency, to non-
agricultural use?
b. Conflict with existing zoning for
agricultural use, or a Williamson Act
contract?
c. Involve other changes in the existing
environment which, due to their
location or nature, could individually
or cumulatively result in loss of
Farmland to non-agricultural use?
Potentially
Potentially Significant With
Significant Mitigation
Impact Incorporated
FE]
Less -Than -
Significant No
Impact Impact
El X
X
X
a -c There is very little land in Rohnert Park under agricultural use. Any that does exist
would be developed under a Specific Plan with CEQA documentation for the Specific plan.
III. AIR QUALITY
Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management
or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations.
Would the project:
Issues
a. Conflict with or obstruct
implementation of the applicable
air quality plan?
b. Violate any air quality standard
or contribute substantially to an
existing or projected air quality
violation?
c. Result in a cumulatively
considerable net increase of any
criteria pollutant for which the
project region is non -attainment
under an applicable federal or
State ambient air quality
standard (including releasing
Potentially
Potentially Significant Less -Than -
Significant With Mitigation Significant
Impact Incorporated Impact
R1
■❑
No Impact
X
X
X
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Potentially
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less -Than -
Significant No
Impact Impact
c. Have a substantial adverse effect on
federally protected wetlands as defined by
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
(including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal
❑
Q
r] x
pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal,
filling, hydrological interruption, or other
means?
d. Interfere substantially with the movement of
any resident or migratory fish or wildlife
species or with established resident or
x
migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the
use of wildlife nursery sites?
e. Conflict with any local policies or
ordinances protecting biological resources,
such as a tree preservation policy or
x
ordinance?
f. Conflict with the provisions of an adopted
Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural
Conservation Community Plan, or other
_.
!__I x
approved local, regional, or State habitat
conservation plan?
a -f This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs and
no impact to Biological Resources is expected. The construction of an on -premise sign
will generally be exempt from CEQA under Categorical Exemption Class 11 Section
15311 Accessory Structures. A new off -premise sign is typically not exempt, but any
potential impact would be addressed at the time of sign construction. New copy on an
off -premise or on -premise sign is typically exempt from CEQA under Categorical
Exemption Class 1 Section 15301 Existing Facilities.
V. CULTURAL RESOURCES
Would the project:
Potentially
Potentially Significant With Less -Than -
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
a. Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a historical resource as L ❑
defined in Section 15064.5?
b. Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a unique archaeological
resource pursuant to Section 15064.5?
11
X
X
Potentially
Significant
Potentially With Less -Than -
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or
collapse?
e. Be located on expansive soil, as defined in
Table 18-1B of the Uniform Building
Code?
f. Have soils incapable of adequately
supporting the use of septic tanks or
alternative wastewater disposal systems
where sewers are not available for the
disposal of wastewater?
0 d x
L! i...? 13 X
a -f This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs. The
construction of an on -premise sign will generally be exempt from CEQA under
Categorical Exemption Class 11 Section 15311 Accessory Structures. A new off -
premise sign is typically not exempt, but any potential impacts on Geology and Soil
would be evaluated prior to construction. New copy on an off -premise or on -premise
sign is typically exempt from CEQA under Categorical Exemption Class 1 Section
15301 Existing Facilities.
VII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Potentially
With Less -Than -
Significant
Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact
Incorporated Impact Impact
a. Generate greenhouse gas emissions,
either directly or indirectly, that may
have a significant impact on the
X
atmosphere?
b. Conflict with any applicable plan,
policy, or regulation of an agency
adopted for the purpose of reducing the
! 1 X
emissions of greenhouse gases?
13
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Potentially With Less -Than -
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
b.
Create a significant hazard to the public or
the environment through reasonably
foreseeable upset and accident conditions
f-] i_i i X
involving the likely release of hazardous
materials into the environment?
c.
Emit hazardous emissions or handle
hazardous or acutely hazardous materials,
w-1 0 ]
substances, or waste within one-quarter mile
X
of an existing or proposed school?
d.
Be located on a site which is included on a
list of hazardous materials sites compiled
pursuant to Government Code Section
u X
65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a
significant hazard to the public or the
environment?
e.
For a project located within an airport land
use plan or, where such a plan has not been
adopted, within two miles of a public airport
-.i 0
or public use airport, would the project result
x
in a safety hazard for people residing or
working in the project area?
f
For a project within the vicinity of a private
airstrip, would the project result in a safety
❑ ❑ i�
hazard for people residing or working in the
X
project area?
g.
Impair implementation of or physically
interfere with an adopted emergency
i X
response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
h. Expose people or structures to the risk of
loss, injury or death involving wildland fires,
including where wildlands are adjacent to
urbanized areas or where residences are E ❑ `J X
intermixed with wildlands?
a -h This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs.
The construction of an on -premise sign will generally be exempt from CEQA under
Categorical Exemption Class 11 Section 15311 Accessory Structures. A new off -
premise sign is typically not exempt and any new Hazards or Hazardous Materials
would be addressed prior to sign construction. New copy on an off -premise or on -
premise sign is typically exempt from CEQA under Categorical Exemption Class 1
Section 15301 Existing Facilities.
15
a -j This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs. The
construction of an on -premise sign will generally be exempt from CEQA under
Categorical Exemption Class 11 Section 15311 Accessory Structures. A new off -
premise sign is typically not exempt and any changes to site hydrology or impact on
water quality that may result from construction activities would be addressed prior to
those activities. New copy on an off -premise or on -premise sign is typically exempt
from CEQA under Categorical Exemption Class 1 Section 15301 Existing Facilities.
X. LAND USE AND PLANNING
Would the project:
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Potentially
Less -Than -
Significant No
Impact Impact
a. Physically divide an established
Significant
community?
Potentially
With
Less -Than -
b. Conflict with any applicable land use plans,
Significant
Mitigation
Significant No
Issues
Impact
Incorporated
Impact Impact
i. Expose people or structures to a significant
risk of loss, injury or death involving
_I
flooding, including flooding as a result of the
x
failure of a levee or dam.
j. Expose people or structures to a significant
risk of loss, injury, or death involving
x
inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow?
a -j This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs. The
construction of an on -premise sign will generally be exempt from CEQA under
Categorical Exemption Class 11 Section 15311 Accessory Structures. A new off -
premise sign is typically not exempt and any changes to site hydrology or impact on
water quality that may result from construction activities would be addressed prior to
those activities. New copy on an off -premise or on -premise sign is typically exempt
from CEQA under Categorical Exemption Class 1 Section 15301 Existing Facilities.
X. LAND USE AND PLANNING
Would the project:
Issues
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Potentially
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less -Than -
Significant No
Impact Impact
a. Physically divide an established
community?
x
b. Conflict with any applicable land use plans,
policies, or regulations of an agency with
jurisdiction over the project (including, but
not limited to the general plan, specific
F-1
plan, local coastal program, or zoning
x
ordinance) adopted for the purpose of
avoiding or mitigating on environmental
effect?
c. Conflict with any applicable habitat
conservation plan or natural community's
i x
conservation plan?
17
a -f This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs. Noise
from signs is prohibited by the sign ordinance. Noise from construction activities would
be addressed at the time of sign construction and most sign construction activities are
exempt from CEQA (except for off-site signage).
XIII. POPULATION AND HOUSING
Would the project:
Issues
a. Induce substantial population growth in an
area, either directly (for example, by
proposing new homes and businesses) or
indirectly (e.g., through projects in an
undeveloped area or extension of major
infrastructure)?
b. Displace substantial numbers of existing
housing, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
c. Displace substantial numbers of people,
necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
Potentially
Significant
Potentially With Less -Than -
Significant Mitigation Significant
Impact Incorporated Impact
F� ❑ [
L7
No
Impact
X
X
X
a -c This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs. The
proposed amendment do not have any impact on Population and Housing.
19
Potentially
Significant
Potentially
With
Less -Than -
Significant
Mitigation
Significant No
Issues
Impact
Incorporated
Impact Impact
use plan or, where such a plan has not been
adopted, within two miles of a public airport
or public use airport, would the project
expose people residing or working in the
project area to excessive noise levels?
f. For a project within the vicinity of a private
airstrip, would the project expose people
Ll
❑
(0
residing or working in the project area to
%
excessive noise levels?
a -f This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs. Noise
from signs is prohibited by the sign ordinance. Noise from construction activities would
be addressed at the time of sign construction and most sign construction activities are
exempt from CEQA (except for off-site signage).
XIII. POPULATION AND HOUSING
Would the project:
Issues
a. Induce substantial population growth in an
area, either directly (for example, by
proposing new homes and businesses) or
indirectly (e.g., through projects in an
undeveloped area or extension of major
infrastructure)?
b. Displace substantial numbers of existing
housing, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
c. Displace substantial numbers of people,
necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
Potentially
Significant
Potentially With Less -Than -
Significant Mitigation Significant
Impact Incorporated Impact
F� ❑ [
L7
No
Impact
X
X
X
a -c This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs. The
proposed amendment do not have any impact on Population and Housing.
19
XVI. TRANSPORTATION AND CIRCULATION
Would the project:
Issues
a. Cause an increase in traffic which is
substantial in relation to the existing traffic
load and capacity of the street system (i.e.,
result in a substantial increase in either the
number of vehicle trips, the volume to
capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at
intersections)?
b. Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a
level of service standard established by the
county congestion management agency for
designated roads or highways?
c. Result in a change in air traffic patterns,
including either an increase in traffic levels or
a change in location that results in substantial
safety risks?
d. Substantially increase hazards due to a design
features (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous
intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?
e. Result in inadequate emergency access?
f. Result in inadequate parking capacity?
a. Conflicts with adopted policies
supporting alternative transportation
(e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)
Potentially
Significant
Potentially With Less -Than -
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
0 ❑ L4 X
❑ ❑
❑ x
❑ ❑
❑ x
❑ ❑
❑ x
❑ ❑
❑ X
a -f This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs and would
have no negative impact on transportation and circulation. Provisions have been added to the
sign code to clarify what can be placed within the public right-of-way, such will reduce visual
clutter and create a safer driving environment.
XVII. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Potentially With Less -Than -
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Issues Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
a. Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of X
the applicable Regional Water Quality
21
Issues
the number or restrict the range of a rare or
endangered plant or animal or eliminate
important examples of the major periods of
California history or prehistory?
b. Does the project have the potential to achieve
short-term, to the disadvantage of long-term,
environmental goals?
c. Does the project have impacts that are
individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable"
means that the incremental effects of a project
are considerable when viewed in connection
with the effects of past projects, the effects of
other current projects, and the effects of
probable future projects)?
d. Does the project have environmental effects
which will cause substantial adverse effects on
human beings, either directly or indirectly?
Potentially
Significant
Potentially With Less -Than -
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Impact Incorporated Impact Impact
4� X
X
6 ? X
a -d This amendment would apply to all signs within Rohnert Park, but only signs. All of
the Mandatory Findings of Significant do not apply, since the proposed sign code text will
have no impact on the environment.
23