Vista Eases Up on Signage Regulations

The Vista Planning Commission approved an amendment to the city’s sign ordinance on April 19 that would regulate sign-spinners and commercial signs on city sports fields.

In October, the city council approved a version that would ban sign-spinners, electronic signs, and marquees. But after receiving complaints from business owners and officials from the Vista Chamber of Commerce, council members agreed to implement more lenient regulations.

Under the updated amendment, electronic signs smaller than six square feet will be allowed in store windows in commercial areas; existing marquee signs at Rayne Water Systems and Kenny’s Kar Klinic will be allowed to remain; and sign-spinners will be allowed to twirl signs smaller than six square feet during daylight hours as long as they don’t impede traffic or pedestrians.

The proposal also allows youth sports leagues to post commercial signs on their playing fields to raise revenue. Those signs must not exceed 32 square feet and must be professionally prepared, durable, waterproof, and mounted in a safe manner.

Patsy Chow, the city planner for Vista, said that league signs will be reviewed to make sure they conform to the regulatory agreement between the leagues and the city. “They will be reviewed by recreation services and planning as well, to see what’s being professionally prepared and as to the size and placement,” she said. The proposal goes back to the city council for approval next month.