Susanville council orders clearer sign rules after businesses raise concerns

Acting Public Works Director Ed Perrin Gethalmar reviewed Susanville’s sign regulations, citing Chapter 17.128 of the Susanville Municipal Code, and told the council the rules aim to let businesses identify themselves while maintaining a consistent visual environment.

The presentation described how most commercial signs require a building permit, noted size and height limits (examples: freestanding signs up to 100–150 sq. ft. depending on district; ground signs typically about 50 sq. ft.; freestanding height limit 15 feet), and explained exemptions (sandwich-board signs generally exempt if 2-by-3 feet; painted window decals were noted as not requiring a permit). Perrin Gethalmar also said temporary banners are not well addressed in the current code and that staff can work with businesses on placement and design to prevent wasted purchases: “the signage code is it’s not complex, but there’s a lot,” he said.

Several business owners told the council that courtesy notices and enforcement timing caused confusion and financial strain. Brian Haines of Barlow and Brush said his shop installed a sign four years ago, had permits only for the lighting, and called late notices “tough on businesses.” Another owner said staff approved a change and that being able to review designs first prevented needless expense.

Councilmembers pressed staff on permit costs and recordkeeping. Staff said change-out or banner permits are typically about $125, new sign permits roughly $2,450, and electrical work can add $120–$198 depending on scope. Staff also said permit records are searchable in permit software for the past eight years but acknowledged older paper-era inconsistencies.

Several councilmembers urged balancing enforcement with small-business needs. One suggested creating a lower-cost “minor” sign permit for temporary or small items; another recommended expanding the code’s definitions to explicitly cover flags, decals, and temporary banners.

Council directed staff to return with recommended ordinance language and fee-schedule options and to engage the business community for input before any formal ordinance change. The council did not take immediate action on the code at the meeting; staff will prepare an action item for a future agenda.