Case PC-2026-00071 - Zoning Code Text Amendments to amend Billboard Relocation and Replacement Provisions - Determine project is exempt from further California Environmental Quality Review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (General Rule), as it can be seen with certainty that project will not have a significant effect on environment - Introduce an Ordinance amending Chapter 19.623 of the Riverside Municipal Code regarding Billboard Signs and amending Table 19.650.020 regarding approving and appeal authority (Community and Economic Development) (All Wards) (10-minute presentation)

The City Council is considering amendments to the Riverside Municipal Code (RMC) Chapter 19.623 concerning billboard signs. The proposed changes aim to clarify and expand provisions for the relocation, replacement, and modernization of existing off-site advertising signs (billboards).

Key Changes:

• Applicant-Initiated Requests: The amendments will allow billboard operators or property owners to initiate requests for relocation, replacement, or modernization, subject to City Council approval and negotiation of a Billboard Relocation Agreement. Previously, only City-initiated requests were permitted under very narrow circumstances.
• Negotiable Terms: The City Council will have sole discretion to negotiate terms of the agreement, which can include revenue sharing, community benefits, takedown/removal ratios (requiring removal of existing billboards in exchange for new ones), billboard sign type (static or digital), dimensions, and location.
• Permit Process: A new section (19.623.040) establishes a process for issuing a Billboard Relocation Permit, which will be administratively approved by the Community and Economic Development Director after a Billboard Relocation Agreement is approved by the City Council.
• Approving Authority: Table 19.650.020 will be amended to designate the Community and Economic Development Director as the approving authority for the Billboard Relocation Permit, with the City Council serving as the final approving authority on appeal.

The proposal stems from an unsolicited proposal by Lamar Advertising Company to relocate and replace existing billboards. The amendments are intended to provide more flexibility than the current policy, which prohibits new billboards and has very limited relocation provisions.

The City Council has determined that the project is exempt from further California Environmental Quality Review (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (General Rule), as it is certain that the project will not have a significant effect on the environment. Both the Economic Development Committee and the Planning Commission have recommended approval of these amendments.