Southern California Sign Blog

Los Angeles Signs | Sign Variance - Will I need one?

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Mon, Feb 7, 2011 @ 07:02 AM

SIGN VARIANCE - What is that? Why do I need a Sign Variance?

It is important to work with your sign professional and local zoning department when designing your business signage. A quick check on the zoning/building code will give you a guideline to use when developing your signage.

Sign Variance Picture

Sign variances become necessary when unique circumstances exist for a property that do not allow for adequate identification of the business. Most sign variances are requested for the purpose of exceeding a municipality's square footage or setback allowances. A quasi-judicial board of elected community members will hear your case and make a decision based on the characteristics of your specific request. Many communities request that you consider and provide answers to the Duncan Factors (used for consideration of area requests).

These are seven factors which the board must answer before approving your variance request. Please find these factors, summarized below:

1). Will the property provide a reasonable return without the variance?
2). Is the variance substantial?
3). Will the surrounding properties be adversely effected by the variance?
4). Will the variance inhibit government services (fire, police, ems)?
5). Is the hardship self-inflicted?
6). Is there a reasonable alternative to this variance?
7). Does the variance follow with the keeping of the zoning code? (Minimum amount needed)

If you have any further questions or need any information, please contact The Sign Studio at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.

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Topics: Sign Permits, Sign Variance, Sign Codes, Zoning Sign Codes, Building Sign Codes

Los Angeles Signs | Signage Development For Large Institutions

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Fri, Jan 21, 2011 @ 08:01 AM

SIGN PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT FOR LARGE INSTITUTIONS

Large institutions such as libraries, college campuses, hospitals and the like, will typically go beyond the traditional aspects of building construction or renovation and work with a sign consultant or fabricator to develop a specific sign program. This will consist of analyzing the floor plan to understand exactly how the building is being used, not only by the building owner and inhabitants, but by visitors who are able bodied and those with disabilities. A survey that includes way finding and accessibility will be taken into account, the types of signs required and their placement throughout the building must be considered. Many details go into this process which should be a collaborative one between the building owner, architect, builder and sign consultant.

The basics will include a complete site plan with tabular legend showing address, zoning, owner and tenant information, contractor, lot particulars and type and quantity of the proposed signs. Property lines, location of utilities, landscaping, parking stalls, street lines, utility poles, fencing, as well as existing signage, etc. must all be identified. Scaled elevation drawings will show the existing location of signs (whether being retained or removed) and will include the locations of the proposed signs.

Architectural elements will include:

• Compatibility of the signs with the design motif of the building
• Incorporating common design elements such as sign materials, colors, lettering style, etc.
• Consistency of the design to promote unity, continuity to prevent disarray and/or clashing features
• Compliance with local zoning and planning departments
• Public safety and regulatory concerns

If you have any further questions or need more information, please call us at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.

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Topics: Architectural Signs, Sign Consultants, Sign Permits, Custom Signs, Commercial Signs

Los Angeles Signs | Elevation Plans for Sign Permits in Burbank

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Tue, Jul 6, 2010 @ 06:07 AM

Sample Elevation 1

Elevation Plans for Sign Permits in Burbank

The first step is to prepare elevations of your sign plans along with a method of attachment and site plan.  Obtain an application from the City of Burbank and fill it out.  Take everything down to the City and start with the Planning Department. 

Once you have sign-off from all the Departments, you pay for your permit(s) and you are ready for production.  Once all the signage has been installed, you must call the number on the Permit and have the City come out and inspect the sign/installation and give you a final sign-off.  

If you have any questions or would like further information, please give us a call at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.

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Topics: Sign Permits, City of Burbank Sign Permits, Burbank Sign Information