Regulations for Illuminated Signs in the City of Concord

Illuminated signs are permitted within the City of Concord, provided they comply with specific design and location requirements intended to prevent light trespass and glare. While general permanent signage may be illuminated, restrictions apply to certain types of signs, such as those in residential districts or specific temporary sign categories, and electronic changeable copy signs are generally prohibited.

General Requirements for Illuminated Signs

All illuminated signs must be designed and installed in compliance with Chapter 18.180 of the Concord Development Code. Key requirements for all permanent signs include:

Glare and Light Trespass: All illumination must be designed so as not to cast stray light on surrounding rights-of-way and properties [Section 18.180.140(D)].
Intensity: The light from an illuminated sign must not be of an intensity or brightness that creates glare or other negative impacts on residential properties or streets in the direct line of sight to the sign [Section 18.180.140(D)(2)].
Energy Efficiency: Light sources must utilize energy-efficient fixtures to the greatest extent possible and comply with Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations [Section 18.180.140(D)(4)].
Prohibited Lighting: Colored lights shall not be used in a manner that could be confused with traffic control devices [Section 18.180.140(D)(3)].
Decorative Lighting: Permanently installed illuminated panels, visible tubing, and strings of lights outlining all or a portion of a structure are considered "signs" and must be counted toward the allowed sign area [Section 18.180.090(A)(5)].

Zoning District and Sign Type Restrictions

Specific regulations apply to different zoning districts and sign types regarding their ability to be illuminated:

Prohibited Sign Types

Electronic Signs: Electronic changeable copy signs (e.g., electronic reader boards) are prohibited in the City of Concord, except for community service signs [Section 18.180.130(D)(2)].
Freeway-Oriented Pylon Signs: Electronic message display signs are generally prohibited, except to the extent permitted in connection with a freeway-oriented pylon sign that is part of an approved master sign program [Section 18.180.080(C)].
Awning Signs: Awnings may not be illuminated unless they are the main sign for the establishment, and only direct exterior lighting is permitted; internal illumination of awnings is prohibited [Section 18.180.130(C)(2)].
Temporary Signs: Temporary signs shall not be illuminated [Section 18.180.120(A)(6)].

Design Standards for Lighting

For signs in the Business Park and Industrial Districts, all freestanding signs that incorporate lighting must have underground utility service [Section 18.180.140(E)(3)]. Additionally, all transformers, equipment, and other related lighting components for permanent signs must be screened or concealed [Section 18.180.140(E)(1)].

Summary of Lighting Standards

Lighting Standard	Requirement
General Illumination	Must not cast stray light on rights-of-way or properties
Brightness/Glare	Must not create negative impacts on residents or motorists
Awning Illumination	Internal illumination prohibited; only direct exterior lighting allowed
Electronic Signs	Prohibited (except for community service signs or specific pylon signs)
Temporary Signs	Illumination is strictly prohibited

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