What is a Sign Permit (SIGN)?
Sign Permits are a necessary method used by the City to regulate signage for the protection of the health, safety and general welfare of Larkspur residents. This process acknowledges that the size, number, location, design and illumination of signs could pose hazards or confusion to motorists and other viewers, and therefore is a way to ensure that new signage will not unduly cause any dangers nor negatively affect the unique character of Larkspur or diminish property values. Generally, signs of 6 or fewer square feet are subject to the approval of the Planning Director, whereas signs larger than 6 square feet are subject to the review of the Zoning Administrator (ZA). Certain signs, as listed in Section 18.60.050 of the Larkspur Municipal Code, are exempt from the Sign Permit requirements.
What are the steps to apply for a Sign Permit?
1) Consult with the Planning Department Staff: File an application form and the required fee at the Customer Service Counter (2nd Floor) of the Larkspur City Hall. The application form should describe the requested proposal and it must be signed by the property owner and representative, if different. The fee is required to cover the city's time and expenses involved in processing the Fence Height Exception. Three copies of plans must be submitted for review along with the required materials listed on the opposite side of this page. Further, the applicant should consider any possible impacts of the proposed fence and provide a written description of how they would be mitigated.
2) Staff Review: Within 30 days of submittal of an application, the City will evaluate it for completeness. If it is found to be complete, processing will begin; if it is incomplete, you will be so notified in writing and provided with a list of the items needed to render it complete. During processing, the property will be visited at least twice by City staff, once to investigate the site and once to post a public notice.
3) Noticing & Staff Report: Local law requires that public notice be given of Fence Height Exception hearings. At least 10 days before the hearing, a notice will be posted on the property, mailed to all property owners within 300 feet, and posted on three official bulletin boards.
4) Public Hearing: The Zoning Administrator (ZA) hearing begins with a staff presentation, then the applicant's presentation and subsequent public comment. The decision of the ZA is based on the required findings from Section 18.16.090(d), which are listed below:
Can the public or applicant appeal the decision of the Zoning
Administrator?
Yes, anyone disagreeing with the ZA decision may file an appeal with the City Clerk within 15 calendar days of the date of the meeting at which the decision was made. A filing fee is charged. The City Council then will hold a new hearing.
When does a Sign Permit expire?
The Sign Permit must be acted upon (commencement or construction) within one year of the approval or the Sign Permit would be rendered invalid. Applicants unable to meet this schedule should apply for an extension before the one-year period expires.
NOTE: The City strongly encourages the applicant/property owner to consult with the neighboring property owners regarding the proposed sign before submittal.
What are the Submittal Requirements for a Sign Permit Application?
For information regarding the steps related to a Sign Permit application and the submittal requirements, click this link: Sign Permit Submittal Requirements.
