HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 23 - Public Hearing - Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-02 Regarding A-Frame Signs Planning and Building Agency
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Item # 23
City of Santa Ana
20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Staff Report
August 19, 2025
TOPIC: Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-02 to Amend Portions of Chapter 41
(Zoning) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code Relating to A-Frame Signs.
AGENDA TITLE
Public Hearing - Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-02 to Amend Portions of
Chapter 41 (Zoning) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code Relating to A-Frame Signs
Legal notice published in the OC Reporter on August 8, 2025.
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt an ordinance approving Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-02 to amend
several sections of Chapter 41 (Zoning) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code (SAMC) relating
to A-frame signs.
ORDINANCE NO. NS-XXXX entitled ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO. 2025-
02 — AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA
AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 41 (ZONING) OF THE SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL
CODE RELATING TO A-FRAME SIGNS AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT
FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) UNDER STATE
CEQA GUIDELINES 15060(C)(2), 15060(c)(3) AND 15061(b)(3)
GOVERNMENT CODE §84308 APPLIES: No
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
At its May 6, 2025, regular meeting, the City Council, with unanimous support, directed
the City Manager to present an ordinance for City Council consideration to permit the use
of A-frame signs as commercial advertising for businesses within the City in order to allow
additional marketing opportunities while addressing concerns related to public safety,
pedestrian access, and the visual character of the community. The proposed ordinance
will permit the use of A-frame signs by businesses while establishing regulations on
location, size, materials, and quantity.
ZOA No. 2025-02 to Amend Portions of Chapter 41 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code
Relating to A-Frame Signs
August 19, 2025
Page 2
5
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Planning Commission Action – July 14, 2025
On July 14, 2025, the Planning Commission held a public hearing for the project and
voted 7:0 to recommend that the City Council approve Zoning Ordinance Amendment
(ZOA) No. 2025-02 as drafted.
DISCUSSION
The City of Santa Ana is proposing revisions to Chapter 41 (Zoning) of the Santa Ana
Municipal Code (SAMC) in order to establish a regulatory framework for A-frame signs,
which would apply Citywide. This framework is designed in accordance with established
industry standards.
The proposed ordinance, ZOA No. 2025-02, attached to this report (Exhibit 1) includes
amendments to Chapter 41 of the SAMC. Table 1 below of this report illustrates key
provisions of the proposed amendments to Chapter 41.
Table 1: ZOA No. 2025-02 Current and Proposed Text Regulations
Item Existing Zoning
Code Regulations
Proposed Zoning Code Amendment
A-frame Sign
Regulations
Prohibited.1. Remove reference to A-frame signs being
prohibited in Sec.41-861.
2. Allow A-frame signs without permits.
Number None.Allow one (1) A-frame sign per business
establishment.
Definitions None.Add definition for A-frame signs in Sec. 41-1000.
Location None.Proposed Sec. 869(b) proposes:
1. A-frame signs shall be placed within fifty (50)
feet of a business entrance when located on
private property.
2. A-frame signs in the public right-of-way shall
only be placed directly in front of a business
and within five feet of the business entrance.
3. Cannot be placed in any manner that obstructs
or impedes pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
a. Shall maintain four (4) feet clearance
on pedestrian paths at all times.
b. May not be placed within twenty-four
(24) inches of a curb face.
c. Must not be placed in measured areas
that obstruct the vision of motorists.
Size None.An A-frame sign shall not exceed thirty-six (36) inches
in height and twenty-four (24) inches in width (Sec. 41-
869(c)).
Design None.An A-frame sign shall be constructed of durable
weather resistant materials and maintained in good
condition (Sec. 41-869(d)).
ZOA No. 2025-02 to Amend Portions of Chapter 41 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code
Relating to A-Frame Signs
August 19, 2025
Page 3
5
2
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8
Item Existing Zoning
Code Regulations
Proposed Zoning Code Amendment
Time of Placement None.An A-frame sign shall only be displayed during
operating hours of the business and must be removed
and stored when business is closed (Sec. 41-869(e)).
The Public Works Agency has drafted A-Frame Guidelines (Exhibit 3) that outline the
rules and requirements for placing A-frame signs to maintain pedestrian, cyclist, and
motorist safety. The guidelines are based on sections of the SAMC and are intended to
ensure that A-frames do not obstruct pathways or public infrastructure in the right-of-way.
Background
A-Frame signs, also known as sandwich board signs or sidewalk signs, are portable, self-
supporting signs shaped like the letter “A,” typically consisting of two panels joined at the
top and designed to stand freely on the ground. These signs are widely used by businesses
such as restaurants, retail stores, and service providers to display information such as daily
specials, promotions, or directional information. These signs are highly visible and easy to
update.
The City has prohibited A-frame signs in the past due to concerns about blocking pedestrian
pathways, damaging landscaping, and visual clutter in the streetscape. However, many
municipalities now allow such signage subject to objective standards because they boost
business visibility, contribute toward increasing foot traffic, and offer an affordable, flexible
display solution that can be easily modified, moved, or removed as needed.
Analysis
By implementing clear guidelines on size, placement, and materials, the proposed A-frame
ordinance ensures signs enhance, rather than detract from, the local urban environment.
Provisions for minimum setbacks from curbs, adequate pedestrian clear zones, and
prohibited display areas prevent obstructions and maintain accessibility. The ordinance also
has requirements for durable, high-quality materials and regular maintenance that
collectively work to prevent visual clutter and ensure aesthetic cohesion with and integration
into Santa Ana's streetscape. The City’s team of Planning and Building and Public Works
agencies staff worked together to define the permissible size, design standards, and
materials to ensure visual harmony with the city's streetscape, address potential
obstructions, promote safe pedestrian flow, and protect city infrastructure from damage.
The A-frame sign ordinance is consistent with the Supreme Court's ruling in Reed v. Town
of Gilbert. Rather than imposing restrictions based on the message displayed, which
Reed declared unconstitutional, this ordinance focuses on content-neutral regulations.
Specifically, it establishes clear guidelines for size, materials, portability, and placement,
ensuring that the rules apply to all A-frame signs, regardless of whether they advertise a
daily special, promote a local event, or convey a specific message. This approach allows
the City to manage visual clutter, maintain pedestrian safety, and protect the aesthetic
integrity of the public realm.
ZOA No. 2025-02 to Amend Portions of Chapter 41 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code
Relating to A-Frame Signs
August 19, 2025
Page 4
5
2
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General Plan Consistency
The Economic Prosperity (EP) Element of the General Plan is designed to ensure the
city’s economy grows, diversifies, and provides broad benefits, such as job creation,
business retention, and increased public revenues. The General Plan emphasizes a
business-friendly approach and updates to the zoning code to clarify development
standards. The amendment to Chapter 41 of the SAMC to permit and regulate A-frame
signs provides marketing and advertising opportunities for businesses, supporting
business development and entrepreneurship, which are key priorities. By enabling
businesses to better attract customers and increase visibility, such signage opportunities
foster a dynamic local economy, promote the commercial environment, and contribute to
goals of job creation, business retention, and maintaining a thriving, business-friendly
community. Specifically, this action advances Goal EP-1: Job Creation and Retention by
supporting businesses (Policy EP-1.2 and EP-1.3), and Goal EP-2: Economic Base
Diversity by encouraging small business development and entrepreneurship (Policy EP-
2.6). Additionally, it aligns with Goal EP-3: Business-Friendly Environment by promoting
a regulatory environment where businesses can thrive (Policy EP-3.1), and Goal EP-4:
Economic Development Strategies by supporting the City’s commitment to economic
growth through supportive policies and customer service (Policy EP-4.1).
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) and the CEQA Guidelines,
the adoption of this Ordinance (“Project”) is exempt from CEQA review pursuant to
Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because it will not result
in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment. The
Project is also exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA
Guidelines as it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility the ordinance will
have a significant effect on the environment. The proposed ordinance allows certain
temporary signage, only providing standards to regulate such signage and does not
authorize any new development or cause changes in density or intensity of land use.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no direct fiscal impact associated with this action.
EXHIBIT(S)
1. Ordinance for ZOA No. 2025-02
2. Copy of Public Notice
3. Public Works Agency A-Frame Sign Guidelines
Submitted By: Ali Pezeshkpour, AICP, Executive Director of Planning and Building
Agency
Approved By: Alvaro Nuñez, City Manager
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 1 of 11
ORDINANCE NO. NS-XXXX
ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO. 2025-02— AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SANTA ANA AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 41
(ZONING) OF THE SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO A-FRAME SIGNS AND FINDING THE
ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) UNDER STATE
CEQA GUIDELINES 15060(C)(2), 15060(c)(3) AND
15061(b)(3)
WHEREAS, the City recognizes the value of local businesses and their need for
effective advertising to attract customers and support economic vitality; and
WHEREAS, A-frame signs, when properly regulated, can provide beneficial
information to the public and enhance the character of commercial districts; and
WHEREAS, on May 6, 2025, the City Council directed City staff to prepare an
ordinance to permit the use of A-frame signs as commercial advertising for businesses
within the City in order to allow additional marketing opportunities while addressing
concerns related to public safety, pedestrian access, and the visual character of the
community; and
WHEREAS, Zoning Ordinance Amendment (ZOA) No. 2025-02 is consistent with
the various goals and policies of the General Plan. Specifically, th is action is consistent
with Economic Prosperity (EP) Goal EP-1: Job Creation and Retention by supporting
business attraction and retention (Policy EP-1.2 and EP-1.3), and Goal EP-2: Economic
Base Diversity by encouraging small business development and entrepreneurship (Policy
EP-2.6). Additionally, it aligns with Goal EP-3: Business-Friendly Environment by
promoting a regulatory environment where businesses can thrive (Policy EP-3.1), and
Goal EP-4: Economic Development Strategies by supporting the City’s commitment to
economic growth through supportive policies and customer service (Policy EP -4.1); and
WHEREAS, on July 14, 2025, the Planning Commission held a duly-noticed public
hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public tes timony
concerning ZOA No. 2025-02, at which time the Planning Commission recommended that
the City Council adopt the proposed ordinance; and
WHEREAS, on August 19, 2025, the City Council held a duly-noticed public
hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public tes timony
concerning the proposed ordinance.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA HEREBY ORDAINS AS
FOLLOWS:
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 2 of 11
Section 1. The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted
as findings by the City Council.
Section 2. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) and
the CEQA Guidelines, the adoption of this Ordinance (“Project”) is exempt from CEQA
review pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines
because it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in
the environment. The Project is also exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3)
of the CEQA Guidelines as it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility the
ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The proposed ordinance
allows certain temporary signage, only providing standards to regulate such signage and
does not authorize any new development or cause changes in density or intensity of land
use.
Section 3. Section 41-861 (Additional Regulations) of Chapter 41 of the SAMC
is hereby amended to read as follows:
Sec. 41-861. Additional regulations.
No sign is permitted that:
1. Is an A-frame, sandwich board or other portable, temporary advertising display.
2.1. Is temporary or special event flags, banners, festoon s, flag canopies or other
displays, except as permitted by a special event sign permit.
3.2. Is a sculptured, molded or otherwise fabricated representational object used for
the purpose of visually conveying business identification or product advertising,
except as approved by a planned sign program.
4.3. Is an aerial or balloon type of sign, exc ept as approved by a Regional Planned
Sign Program pursuant to section 41-885 of this chapter.
5.4. Conflicts with standards established by resolution of the city council pertaining
to the colors and materials of signs adopted for the purpose of promoting
signage which is visually attractive and harmonious with its surroundings.
6.5. Duplicates or repeats copy on the same sign.
7.6. Is a graphic of paint or other material on a building for the purpose of amplifying
or directing attention to a sign, unless approved by the planning director.
Section 4. Section 41-869 (Reserved) of Chapter 41 of the SAMC is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 41-869. –Reserved A-frame signs.
A-frame signs shall comply with all of the following standards and, when located in areas
allowed within the public right-of-way, said signs shall also comply with the A-Frame Sign
Guidelines established by the Director of the Public Works Agency:
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 3 of 11
(a) Number. No more than one (1) A-frame sign that advertises or identifies the
business activity shall be permitted for each business establishment.
(b) Location.
(1) A-frame signs shall be placed within fifty (50) feet of the business
establishment entrance when the A-frame sign is located on private
property.
(2) A-frame signs may only be placed in the public right-of-way when
advertising a business establishment that occupies a building directly
abutting the public right-of-way and there is no private property setback
available to place the A-frame sign.
(3) A-frame signs in the public right-of-way shall be placed directly in front of
the structure containing, and within five feet, or as close as practicable, of
the primary entrance of the business establishment to which the sign
pertains.
(4) A-frame signs shall not be placed in a manner that obstructs or impedes
pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or impedes visibility of travelers, or blocks
access to building entrances, fire hydrants, utility boxes, bus stops, or any
other public amenity.
i. A minimum width of four (4) feet of a clear pedestrian path shall be
maintained on walkways, sidewalks, or other required pedestrian paths
of travel, at all times, measured from the closest edge of the A-frame
sign to any obstruction (e.g., building, planter, utility, street furniture,
wheelchair ramp, driveway).
ii. A-frame signs shall not be placed within twenty-four (24) inches of a
curb face.
iii. A-frame signs shall not be placed in any portion of a roadway intended
for use or access by automobiles or bicycles, including vehicle travel
lanes, bicycle lanes, parking spaces, driveways, loading zones, or
alleys.
iv. A-frame signs shall not be placed in a location which would restrict or
inhibit passengers entering or exiting from any vehicle, including a fixed
rail streetcar, bus or passenger automobile.
v. A-frame signs on private property shall not be placed in triangular
area(s) measured fifteen (15) feet by fifteen (15) feet where a driveway
enters onto a street, or in any other area which may reduce the visibility
of motorists.
vi. On corner lots, A-frame signs on private property shall not be placed
closer than twenty-five (25) feet from the point of the intersection of the
two property lines that abut the public right -of-way; or in the case of
rounded corners, the point of intersection shall be measured from the
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 4 of 11
intersection of the tangents to the curve. The tangents referred to are
those at the beginning and at the end of the curve at the corners.
vii. A-frame signs within the public right-of-way exceeding thirty (30) inches
in height shall not be placed within the Limited Use Area of the
Intersection Sight Distance standard plan as regulated by Section 33 -
27 of this Code or prohibited areas as depicted in A-Frame Sign
Guidelines established by the Director of the Public Works Agency, or
related exhibits.
(5) A-frame signs shall not be placed in a landscaped planter or parkways.
(c) Size.
(1) The height of an A-frame sign shall not be less than twenty-four (24)
inches, and shall not be taller than thirty-six (36) inches.
(2) The width of an A-frame sign (edge to edge) shall not exceed twenty-four
(24) inches.
(d) Design.
(1) A-frame signs shall be constructed of durable, weather resistant
materials (e.g., wood, metal) and maintained in good condition, free from
peeling paint, rust, fading, or other damage.
(2) A-frame signs shall be stable and weighted to prevent tipping, but shall
not be permanently secured or affixed to the ground, sidewalk, walkway,
facilities, or buildings.
(3) A-frame signs shall not mimic or otherwise resemble any type of traffic
control device, including but not limited to, in color, shape, symbol,
reflectivity, or message.
(4) A-frame signs shall not be, retroreflective, illuminated or supplied with
power.
(e) Time of Placement.
(1) A-frame signs shall only be displayed during operating hours of the
business establishment to which they pertain.
(2) A-frame signs shall be removed and stored out of public view when the
business is closed.
(3) A-frame signs within the public right-of-way shall be removed upon
request of City staff, contractors or permittee pursuant to Sec 33-30.5, as
required to clean, maintain, excavate, repair or replace the sidewalk or
other improvements.
Section 5. Section 41-872 (Other signs) of Chapter 41 of the SAMC is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 5 of 11
Sec. 41-872. - Other Signs
(a) Directional signs. Directional signs not exceeding four (4) square feet in area
and, if freestanding, a height of four (4) feet shall be allowed. Such directional
sign shall contain only that information necessary for on -site circulation, parking
and site information without any advertising.
(b) Menu boards. Menu boards on the interior driveways of drive -through facilities
shall not exceed seven (7) feet in height and sixty (60) square feet in area.
Speakers shall face away from residential property. No more than two (2) men u
boards per drive-through shall be permitted.
(c) Window signs. No permanent sign affixed to or incorporated into an exterior
window shall exceed twenty-five (25) per cent of each window area.
(d) Awning signs. No sign affixed to or incorporated into an awning shall exceed ten
(10) per cent of the awning elevation.
(e) Construction signs. One (1) unlighted construction sign is permitted per street
frontage per job site and shall not exceed six (6) square feet in any residential
zone or thirty-two (32) square feet in all other zones, and shall contain no more
than the name of the project and the names and addresses of the contractors,
architects, engineers, landscape architect, financing company or developer.
Such sign shall be removed within thirty (30) days of building permit final approval
or issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the project.
(f) Service station signs. Signs for service stations shall comply with the provisions
of this article for freestanding and wall signage and shall include signs required
by law, but shall not exceed the minimums set by law subject to sign placement
requirements and review as set forth in this part. In addition, the following signage
is permitted:
(1) Island canopies. One (1) sign per street frontage shall be permitted. Canopy
signage shall not exceed twenty (20) square feet in area. Canopy sign copy
shall be limited to business name and logo only. Signage may be internally
illuminated.
(2) Spandrel signs or canopy support signs. The signs shall not exceed twenty
(20) per cent of the spandrel area. The spandrel sign copy shall be limited to
business name and logo only. Spandrel signage may be internally
illuminated.
(3) Pump or dispenser signs. Pump or dispenser signs shall be limited to
business or fuel identification, operational instructions, and state required
information.
(4) Convenience signs. Signage designated to assist customers, such as
"Please Pull to Forward Pumps" or "Please Pay Cashier Before Pumping
Gas" shall be architecturally integrated with the structure to which it is being
applied and not exceed four (4) square feet in sign area.
(g) Signs over public right-of-way. No sign, except A-frame signs consistent with and
regulated by Section 41-869 of this Chapter, shall extend over the public right-
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 6 of 11
of-way, except signs on a marquee, canopy or awning which shall project no
closer than two (2) feet from a curb.
(h) Exterior telephones.
(1) To maintain an image of professionalism, side panels on pay phones must
relate solely to phone identification and/or the business name or logo of the
pay phone company provider. No advertising of products, services or special
events are allowed. Side panels must be composed of materials which allow
for cleaning and removal of graffiti without deterioration of color or surface
appearance of the enclosure. Service providers will be responsible for
keeping side panels clean and free of graffiti. All enclosures at a location
must be of the same type with side panels of the same color. All enclosures
must be U.L. listed and all light fixtures operational if units are wired for
lighting. Vandalized enclosures/side panels requiring repairs must be
replaced within one (1) business day of notification to the service provider.
(2) Signage indicating the location of a pay phone may not be placed on the site
or extend above the phone cabinet unless deemed necessary due to public
safety concerns as determined by the chief of police. In such instances, said
signage is limited to the international telephone symbol.
(3) Phone identification attached to a building or structure is not permitted.
(4) Phones may not be used to advertise on - or off-site business activities.
Section 6. Section 41-1000 (General) of Chapter 41 of the SAMC is hereby
amended to read as follows:
The words and phrases used in this article shall be construed as defined in this
division, unless the context clearly required otherwise. Unless specifically defined in this
article, the definitions set forth in other provisions of this Code shall likewise apply to this
article.
(1) A-frame sign: A portable, self-supporting sign, also known as a sandwich board sign,
typically constructed in an "A" or inverted "V" shape and consists of two flat surfaces
joined at the top, designed to be placed on the ground and capable of being easily
moved or relocated.
(12) Aerial sign: A free floating balloon, kite, or similar object not directly secured to
property within the city.
(23) Alter: To change the copy, color, size, shape, illumination, position, location,
construction or supporting structure of a sign, not including ordinary maintenance.
(34) Area of a sign: The entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of
squares or rectangles that enclose the extreme limits of writing, representation, logo,
or any figure of similar character, together with any frame, background area,
structural trim, or other material or color forming an integral part of the display or used
to differentiate such sign from the background against which it is placed. The
supports or uprights on which any such sign is supported shall not be included in
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 7 of 11
determining the sign area. The area of signs with two (2) faces shall be considered
to be the area of the largest face. The area of signs with three (3) or more faces shall
be considered to be the area of the largest face or one-half (½) the area of all of the
faces, whichever is less.
(45) Awning sign: A sign affixed to or imprinted on a temporary shelter composed of
nonrigid material on a supporting framework, affixed to the exterior wall of a building.
(56) Business activity: An enterprise offering goods, services, or other consideration to
the public, in legal occupancy of a site or of a specific portio n of a site and under
separate and distinct management from any other enterprise located on the same
site.
(67) Business frontage: The horizontal dimension of a building or individual business
elevation measured at ground level.
(78) Canopy sign: A sign affixed to any permanent architectural projection extending over
a door, entrance, window, or outdoor service area.
(89) Changeable copy sign: A sign or portion thereof which copy is changed manually or
electrically, such as readerboards and electronic message boards, without altering
the face or surface.
(910) Construction sign: A sign at the site of a construction project which identifies the
project and/or the persons or firms involved in it.
(1011) Directional sign: A sign erected for the purpose of facilitating or controlling the
efficient and safe movement of pedestrians or vehicles on private property and
containing only directional information and no advertising.
(1112) Elevation: The visible vertical plane of the side of a building from g round level to
the roof line.
(1213) Elevation, primary: The side of a building directly abutting either a street or a
parking area. A business owner may choose which elevation is considered the
primary elevation, except that in a multitenant building the elevation which is
contiguous to other businesses shall be the primary elevation.
(1314) Elevation, secondary: Any elevation of a building not determined to be a primary
elevation.
(1415) Flag canopy: A line of flags, or a series of lines of flags, suspended above a site.
(1516) Freestanding sign: A sign standing directly on the ground that is independent from
any building or other structure.
(1617) Frontage: The length of a property line along the street that forms its boundary.
(1718) Frontage, primary: A frontage which is either abutting a major arterial or is longer
than other frontages on lots having two (2) or more frontages.
(1819) Frontage, secondary: On a lot with frontage on two (2) or more streets, all frontages
except that frontage designated as the primary frontage.
(1920) Gross leasable space: A single leasable space regardless of number of tenants or
leases within the space.
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 8 of 11
(2021) Height of sign: The overall height of the sign above the top of the curb grade.
(2122) Illegal sign: A sign which does not conform to the requirements and standards of
this article and which is not a nonconforming sign as hereinbelow defined.
(2223) Implied sign program: The predominant pattern of signs within a commercial center
which does not have an adopted sign program.
(2324) Incidental sign: A sign conveying information that includes, but is not limited to,
hours of operation, delivery information, credit cards accepted, and open/closed
signs.
(2425) Integrated development site: Any commercial site, regardless of the number of lots
or individual tenants, that is developed with common parking, layout, architecture or
design features.
(2526) Item of information: A word, figure, logo, abbreviation, or other symbolic
representation.
(2627) Logo: A design of letters or symbols used as a trademark or for identification in lieu
of, or in conjunction with, other signs.
(2728) Lot line: A line that separates two (2) lots.
(2829) Marquee sign: A sign affixed to a permanent projection extending from the building
or beyond the wall of the building.
(2930) Monument sign: A freestanding low profile sign with the sign width greater than the
sign height and designed with a solid base and background.
(3031) Multitenant development: A development consisting of three (3) or more leasable
spaces.
(3132) Noncommercial sign: A sign which is not any of the following:
a. A sign which is designed to promote the sale, lease, or exchange of goods,
services, or property.
b. A sign which is designed to identify or attract attention to any place which sells,
leases, or exchanges goods, services, or property.
c. A sign which is designed to identify or attract attention to any church or other
place of worship, club, nonprofit facility, governmental office or facility, or other
such place where a person, group of persons or organization is engaged in any
activity involving interaction with the general public or a significant portion
thereof, whether for income purposes or not.
d. A directional sign.
e. A construction sign.
(3233) Nonconforming sign: Any sign which at one time conformed to all applicable
requirements and standards of this chapter, including all applicable permit
requirements, but which subsequently ceased to so conform due to changes in such
requirements and standards.
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 9 of 11
(3334) Painted sign: A sign painted directly on a building or on material which is then
attached to a building.
(3435) Parapet: A protective wall or barrier projecting above any canopy, balcony, or roof.
(3536) Permanent sign: A sign constructed of weather-resistant material and intended for
permanent use.
(3637) Projecting sign: A sign attached to a building with the face not parallel to the vertical
surface of the building.
(3738) Raceway: A conduit to house electrical wires for signs and used to support and/or
affix signage on a wall.
(3839) Real estate sign: A temporary sign pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of land
and/or buildings.
(3940) Roof line: The uppermost edge of the roof or the top of the parapet, excluding
mechanical equipment screens, whichever is highest. Where a building has several
roof levels, the roof line shall be the one belonging to that portion of the building on
which the sign is located.
(4041) Roof sign: A sign which has a point of attachment to the roof of a building.
Architectural projections, including mechanical equipment screens, above any
parapet or roof line whose sole function is a background for signs shall be considered
a sign structure. A sign on such an architectural projection shall be considered a roof
sign.
(4142) Sign: Letters, figures, symbols, trademarks, or logos, with or without illumination,
intended to identify any place, subject, person, firm, business, product, article, or
merchandise. A sign includes all parts, materials, frames, and backgrounds.
(4243) Signable area: The area of the largest rectangular portion of a face of a building to
which a sign is affixed or proposed to be affixed, which can be included within
parallel, vertical and horizontal lines uninterrupted by significant architectural
features of the building.
(4344) Site: A unit of land, together with all improvements thereon, determined as follows:
a. A unit of land which may be conveyed separately from any and all adjacent land
without the requirement of approval of a tentative map pursuant to the
Subdivision Map Act and Chapter 34 of this Code.
b. Two (2) or more buildings or business activities that are or will be related to each
other physically or architecturally, such as by sharing off-street parking facilities,
so as to form an integrated development, such as a shopping center, industrial
park or office complex.
(4445) Special event sign or display: Signs or advertising displays or combination thereof
which advertise or attract public attention to a special one -time event, the opening of
a building or business activity, the sale or goods or services at discounted or
otherwise specially advantageous prices, or similar event; but excluding signs
pertaining to the sale, lease or rental of real estate.
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 10 of 11
(4546) Temporary sign: Any sign that is used only temporarily and is not permanently
mounted.
(4647) Under-canopy sign: A sign that is suspended below a canopy or marquee
perpendicular to the nearest elevation.
(4748) Unshielded lighting: An external illumination source which is exposed to view.
(4849) Wall sign: A sign which is attached parallel to or painted on a wall, including
parapet or canopy fascia, or a building.
(4950) Width of sign: The total horizontal dimension of a sign, including all frames or
structures.
(5051) Window sign: A sign that is attached to or is intended to be seen in, on, or through
a window and is visible from the exterior of the window.
Section 7. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this
ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any
court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining
portions of this ordinance. The City Council of the City of Santa Ana hereby declares that
it would have adopted this ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause,
phrase or portion thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections,
subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or
unconstitutional.
Section 8. This ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after its
adoption.
Section 9. The City Clerk shall certify the adoption of this ordinance and shall
cause the same to be published as required by law.
ADOPTED this _______ day of ___________, 2025.
_________________________
Valerie Amezcua
Mayor
Ordinance No. NS-XXX
Page 11 of 11
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Sonia R. Carvalho, City Attorney
By:_________________________
Melissa M. Crosthwaite
Senior Assistant City Attorney
AYES: Councilmembers ______________________________________
NOES: Councilmembers _______________________________________
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers _______________________________________
NOT PRESENT: Councilmembers _______________________________________
CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTATION AND ORIGINALITY
I, ______________, City Clerk, do hereby attest to and certify the attached Ordinance
No. NS-____________ to be the original ordinance adopted by the City Council of the
City of Santa Ana on _______________, and that said ordinance was published in
accordance with the Charter of the City of Santa Ana.
Date: ________________ ____________________________________
City Clerk
City of Santa Ana
CITY OF SANTA ANA
Planning and Building Agency
20 Civic Center Plaza ● P.O. Box 1988
Santa Ana, California 92702
www.santa-ana.org/pba
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
BEFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA, CA
The City of Santa Ana encourages the public to participate in the decision-making process. The
following notice is being provided so that you can ask questions, make comments, and stay
informed about projects that might be important to you. We encourage you to contact us prior
to the Public Hearing if you have any questions.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN - The City Council of the City of Santa Ana will hold a public hearing to
receive public testimony and will take action on the item described below.
Project Location: Citywide
Project Applicant: City of Santa Ana
Proposed Project: The City of Santa Ana is requesting the adoption of the Zoning Ordinance
Amendment (ZOA) No. 2025-02 to amend Chapter 41 (Zoning) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code to
establish regulations as it relates to A-Frame signs.
Environmental Impact: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) and the CEQA
Guidelines, the adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from CEQA review pursuant to sections
15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because it will not result in a direct or reasonably
foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment. The project is also exempt from CEQA
pursuant to section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because it can be seen with certainty that
there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. As
a result, a Notice of Exemption, Environmental Review No. 2025-49, will be filed upon adoption of this
ordinance.
Action Taken by the Planning Commission on July 14, 2025: Recommended City Council adopt
ordinance approving Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2025-02. VOTE: 7:0 (Ayes: Commissioners
Benninger, Escamilla, Oliva, Pham, and Woo, Leo and Ramos).
Meeting Details: This public hearing will be held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., or as
soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, in the City Council Chamber, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa
Ana, CA 92701. Members of the public may attend this meeting in-person or join via Zoom. For
the most up to date information on how to participate virtually in this meeting, please visit
https://www.santa-ana.org/agendas-and-minutes/
Written Comments: If you are unable to participate in the meeting, you may send written comments
by e-mail to eComment@santa-ana.org (reference the Agenda Item # in the subject line) or mail to
Jennifer L. Hall, City Clerk, City of Santa Ana, 20 Civic Center Plaza – M30, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
Deadline to submit written comments is 4:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Comments received after
the deadline may not be distributed to the City Council but will be made part of the record.
Where To Get More Information: All staff reports regarding any item on this agenda are available for
public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office during regular business hours and posted on the City’s website
the Tuesday before a Council meeting at: https://www.santa-ana.org/agendas-and-minutes/
Who To Contact For Questions: Should you have any questions, please contact Holli Safran with the
Planning and Building Agency at Hsafran@santa-ana.org or (714) 667-2746.
Note: If you challenge the decision on the above matter in court, you may be limited to raising only
those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written
correspondence delivered to the City Council of the City of Santa Ana at, or prior to, the public hearing.
Si tiene preguntas en español, favor de llamar a Gema Zapien (714) 667-2732.
Nếu cần liên lạc bằng tiếng Việt, xin điện thoại cho Kristie Ha (714) 667-2206.
City of Santa Ana
Public Works Agency
Phone: (714) 647-5039
A-Frame Guidelines
Santa Ana Municipal Code Chapter 41; Sections: 41-861, 41-869, 41-872, 41-1000 and Ordinance No.
NS-XXXX establish guidelines for the placement of A-frames within the City.
Public Works Agency’s Right-of-Way A-Frame Guidelines
These Guidelines combine the City of Santa Ana’s Municipal Code Section 41-869 (“SAMC”) with the Public Works Agency’s (PWA’s)
requirements for A-Frame sandwich boards (“A-frames”) placed on public sidewalks (see Example 1). A permit is not required for A-
frames that meet all SAMC and PWA’s requirements as combined into these Guidelines and presented in this information document.
1. A-Frames shall be no taller than three* (3*) feet and no wider than two (2) feet and may only be placed:
a. On streets with four or fewer regular vehicular through lanes and a posted speed of 35 mph or less and where the public sidewalk
is at least *eight (*8) feet wide. (*If the public sidewalk is at least six (6) feet wide, the maximum A-Frame height shall be thirty
(30) inches and all other requirements in these guidelines and the ordinance shall be met .)
b. Directly adjacent to and within the sidewalk fronting the business establishment a minimum distance “X” (Table 1) away from
the corner of the building as shown in Figure 1, *and if A-Frames are no taller than thirty (30) inches, they may be placed in
either the green or yellow (limited use) areas shown in Figure 1.
c. Within five (5’) or as close as practicable to the primary, front entry of the business establishment.
d. Where there will be a minimum four (4’) foot wide pedestrian travel path between the edge of the A-frame and any other existing
obstruction or street furniture, including, but not limited to poles/posts, cabinets, benches, shelters, railings, kiosks, etc.
e. Where the business establishment does not have a private property setback without a practical building recess or alcove area
to place an A-Frame.
f. During business operational hours and shall be remo ved immediately after business hours to a location no longer in public view.
Figure 1 Table 1 Example 1
2. A- Frames shall:
a. Be constructed of durable, weather-resistant materials (e.g. wood, metal), and maintained in good condition, free from flaking
paint, rust, fading, or other damage.
b. Be stable and weighted to prevent tipping.
c. Not mimic or otherwise resemble any type of traffic control device, including, but not limited to, in color, shape, symbol, r eflectivity,
or message.
d. Not be retroreflective, illuminated or supplied with power.
3. A-frames shall not be placed where:
a. Prohibited in these Guidelines or SAMC Section 41-869.
b. Placing the A-frame would result in a less than a four (4) foot accessible and clear pathway at all times.
c. Within two (2) feet of the street’s curb face.
d. Where the visibility of travelers is obstructed.
e. Any landscaped public parkway, planter, tree-well, divider, or street median.
f. Any alley, driveway/driveway approach, bikeway, railway line, loading zone, street vehicular travel or parking lane
g. It could obstruct or impede pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or block access to building entrances, fire hydrants, utility boxes,
streetcar or bus stops, or any other public amenity.
4. Additional guidelines:
a. An individual business establishment shall not place no more than one A-frame within the public right-of-way frontage.
b. A-frames shall not be attached to any existing facility, surface, utility, or building and shall be removable at all times and shall be
removed at the end of each business day.
c. A-Frames within the public right-of-way shall be removed upon the request of City staff, contractors or permittee pursuant to
Chapter 33 of the SAMC, as required to clean, maintain, excavate, repair, or replace the sidewalk or other improvements.
5. Hold Harmless Clause:
By placing an A-frame, the business owner promises and agrees to comply with all applicable regulations , guidelines and that the
City, it’s employees, agents and volunteers shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims resulting from A-frame placements.
Posted
Speed
(MPH)
X
Distance
25 20
30 25
35 35
Allowable A-Frame