Case PC-2026-00071 - Adopt an Ordinance amending Chapter 19.623 of the Riverside Municipal Code regarding Billboard Signs Relocation and Replacement Provisions and amending Table 19.650.020 regarding approving and appeal authority - Waive further reading (Intro. on 3-24-26, All Wards)

The City Council is considering an ordinance to amend Chapter 19.623 of the Riverside Municipal Code regarding billboard signs, specifically focusing on relocation, replacement, and modernization provisions. The ordinance also amends Table 19.650.020 to clarify approving and appeal authorities for billboard relocation permits.

Key Provisions:

• Applicant-Initiated Relocation: The proposed changes would allow billboard owners to initiate requests for relocation, replacement, or modernization, which is currently prohibited. Previously, only City-initiated requests were permitted, and only for billboards on parcels annexed into the City.
• City Council Approval: The City Council will be the sole authority to approve or deny any Billboard Relocation Agreement and will have discretion in negotiating its terms.
• Negotiable Terms: Agreements can specify sign dimensions, type (static, digital, single/double-sided), location (freeway-oriented, major arterials, regional gateways), and may include "takedown" ratios (requiring removal of existing billboards for new installations).
• Public Benefits: Agreements may also incorporate public benefit provisions such as site improvements, public art, infrastructure improvements, public messaging, annual fees, or revenue-sharing.
• Permit Process: A Billboard Relocation Permit may be issued after a Billboard Relocation Agreement is approved by the City Council. The Community and Economic Development Director will be the approving authority for the permit, with the City Council serving as the final approving authority on appeal.

Background:

• The proposal stems from an unsolicited proposal by Lamar Advertising to relocate and replace billboards. Current policy restricts relocation to specific circumstances and prohibits applicant-initiated requests.
• Federal and state laws (Federal Highway Beautification Act of 1965 and California Outdoor Advertising Act) regulate billboards visible from the National Highway System.
• Approximately 85% of Riverside's freeways are designated Classified Landscaped Freeways, which have stricter regulations.

Fiscal Impact:

• There is no direct fiscal impact associated with this report.