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Sonoma planning commission continues overhaul of sign code, weighs stricter Plaza rules and streamlined approvals
Summary
At a study session the commission reviewed a draft sign ordinance that updates incidental and temporary sign rules, addresses internal/external illumination (including a proposed 30% evening dimming), considers objective standards for the Plaza Retail Overlay and a two‑track administrative/discretionary review system, and discussed sign programs and monument signs to reduce visual clutter.
The Sonoma City Planning Commission held a study session Nov. 20 on a comprehensive draft amendment to the sign code (Title 18). Associate Planner Jake Dunn presented changes intended to clarify definitions and create clearer procedures for the city, including updates to incidental and noncommercial residential signs, exemptions, multi‑phase sign measurement, fluorescent-color language and illumination controls.
Dunn told the commission and the public that staff is exploring a two‑track system: an objective, administrator‑reviewable track with narrow, predictable standards (size, palette, placement) to speed approval of routine signs, and a discretionary track for signs that fall outside those standards or require subjective evaluation in the Plaza/Retail Overlay area.
Key items discussed:
- Incidental signs and temporary banners: staff proposed clearer size limits (currently 3 sq ft; an industry participant suggested 5 sq ft) and time limits for temporary signs and banners.
- Illumination and dimming: the draft adds dimming requirements for external and internal illumination; staff mentioned a potential 30% reduction in brightness in evening hours as an option.
- Historic/Plaza area standards: commissioners debated whether the Plaza Retail Overlay should rely on subjective findings to protect character or whether objective standards (materials, colors, prohibited types) could be added to speed predictable approvals. Several commissioners and public commenters favored a hybrid approach: objective baseline standards plus discretionary review for exceptions.
- Sign programs/monument signs: staff proposed sign programs to coordinate signage for multi‑tenant properties and discussed thresholds that would trigger a sign program or monument sign (two versus three or more businesses), who must coordinate the program and whether aggregate allowances should change for multi‑tenant sites.
Business and sign‑industry participants urged clearer application timelines and predictable paths to approval; commissioners asked staff to return with draft objective standards for the Plaza overlay, clearer triggers for administrative vs discretionary review, and sign‑program options for multi‑tenant parcels.
No final action was taken; staff will return with revised language implementing the commission’s direction.
