20.16.105 Coordinated Sign Design Programs.
A. Purpose.
1. To create a streamlined sign review process for development projects, projects with multiple signs, and projects with multiple tenants.
2. To ensure consistent design, quality and display of signs.
B. Applicability. The following projects are eligible for a Coordinated Sign Design Program:
1. Four or more contiguous non-residential tenant spaces.
2. Four or more permanent non-exempt signs associated with one development project, business or Use Permit.
3. Projects with unique characteristics, including but not limited to site visibility and site location, as determined by the Director of Planning and Development or their designee.
C. Approval and Appeal Authority.
1. A Coordinated Sign Design Program may be part of preliminary or final Design Review and shall be decided upon by the Design Review Committee or Landmark Preservation Commission, according to their jurisdiction. Appeals shall be heard by the Zoning Adjustment Board whose decision is final.
2. The Building Official shall determine if a sign allowed under a Coordinated Sign Design Program requires a Building Permit or Electrical Permit to meet the requirements of the Berkeley Building Code.
D. Regulations.
1. A Coordinated Sign Design Program shall outline regulations including, but not limited to, sign area, number of signs, maximum height, and location.
2. A Coordinated Sign Design Program may include exceptions to the regulations established in this Chapter when deemed necessary or desirable.
E. Application Requirements. A Coordinated Sign Design Program shall include all information and materials required in administrative guidelines published by the Planning Department, including the Coordinated Sign Design Program fee in the Fee Schedule.
F. Findings. In order to approve a Coordinated Sign Design Program, the following findings shall be made:
1. The Coordinated Sign Design Program complies with the purpose of this Chapter;
2. The Coordinated Sign Design Program ensures proposed signs enhance the overall project;
3. The Coordinated Sign Design Program ensures proposed signs are in harmony with other signs and structures included in the project;
4. The Coordinated Sign Design Program ensures proposed signs are in harmony with surrounding development;
5. The Coordinated Sign Design Program contains provisions to accommodate Change in Use or new tenants; and
6. The Coordinated Sign Design Program complies with the standards of this Chapter and/or includes specific exceptions as deemed necessary or desirable.
G. Revisions to Coordinated Sign Design Programs. Revisions to Coordinated Sign Design Programs shall be considered by the original decision-maker.
H. Binding Effect.
1. A Coordinated Sign Design Program, once adopted, shall be adhered to unless amended.
2. A Coordinated Sign Design Program shall be enforced in accordance with this Chapter. (Ord. 7847-NS § 2, 2022)