SIGNAGE MATTERS: SPECIAL EDITION
April 27, 2011
By Jeff Aran, Esq

Read More...

State Legislation

As most are aware, in addition to the stock market roller-coaster and the national debt ceiling fiasco, the big news this past summer at the State Capitol was that a state budget passed on time. Hopefully, now our elected officials can get to work this fall rebuilding California's economy. As to signage legislation, this past session has been pleasantly quiet (as of Sept 12), except for local cities. One noteworthy bill we've been tracking is AB 607 which allows EMC’s on buses in Santa Monica on a pilot project basis (now pending in the Assembly). Other bills we’re monitoring include:

AB 49 --Would establish the State Office of Permit Assistance to assist local agencies in streamlining the permit process. Bill would authorize the OPA to call a conference of parties to resolve questions or mediate disputes arising from a development or construction permit application. Would also require the OPA to develop guidelines and provide grant money for expedited permitting (if funded). Bill is on Hold.

SB 454--Measure would give the Energy Commission authority to prosecute those who fail to comply with California’s energy efficiency standards. Amended to redirect enforcement authority to CSLB and to focus efforts on unlicensed contractors and those that are purposefully avoiding the permitting process and Title 24. Last amended July 12, pending in Appropriations.

SB 469--(now pending in Appropriations) (requires economic impact report for superstore approvals)

AB 994--(retains “on-premise” sign designation for signs that might be deemed “off-premise” upon dissolution of a redevelopment zone) (no action taken).