Important Information about Real Estate Signs in Hermosa Beach
SBAOR has learned that Hermosa Beach city officials are stepping up enforcement of signage laws. A number of Open House and lead-in signs have recently been confiscated from areas where we understand that signs have been placed in the past. In fact, we are told that over the weekend of May 3-4, 2014 nearly two dozen signs were taken by code enforcement.
Our conversations this week with city officials indicate that Hermosa Beach has added new code enforcement resources and is enforcing existing codes more rigorously. We have expressed concerns to the City and we plan to work closely with the City Council and code enforcement officials in order to remedy the current situation.
Please read carefully this document of Frequently Asked Questions and share it with REALTORS® in your offices and in your community. If you have any questions, please call SBAOR Government Affairs at (310)326-3010 ext. 715.
Has the city passed a new law on signs? Why is there more enforcement now?
The City of Hermosa Beach has passed no new signage laws leading up to the increased enforcement. Rather, the City is using new resources to enforce existing signage laws only. Signs are not permitted on any public property; this includes sidewalks, medians, and the Greenbelt which runs in parallel between Ardmore Ave. and Valley Dr. While this has been the case for some time, the City has not always had sufficient resources to enforce it.
Are only real estate signs being confiscated?
No. Code enforcement officials tell SBAOR that all signs – including REALTOR® signs – are being subject to enforcement and are being removed if found to be illegally placed.
I believe that my sign has been confiscated. How can I get it back? Will there be a fine?
Go to the Department of Code Enforcement at Hermosa Beach City Hall, 1315 Valley Dr. You should show your business card to claim your signs. While the City has the authority to impose fines up to $100, we understand that officials are in an “education” period and are not currently imposing fines.
Where are my signs permitted and not permitted in the city?
Signs are not permitted on public property and public rights-of-way, including sidewalks and medians. They are permitted on your listing and also on any private property as long as you secure that property owner’s permission. Code enforcement has assured SBAOR that they will not confiscate signs from private property. The Hermosa Beach Municipal Code discusses signage here (HBMC Chapter 17.50 "Signs"). If you believe that your sign was confiscated from private property, then contact Code Enforcement at (310)318-0235 or SBAOR Government Affairs at (310)326-3010.
If I cannot place my signs on certain sidewalks and on the Greenbelt, then there is no practical place to put them and I cannot market my listing. What I can do?
SBAOR has heard from REALTORS® like you who tell us that it is impractical or impossible in many areas of the City to put Open House or lead-in signs on any place other than public property. It is important to REALTORS® and to SBAOR that your listings find qualified buyers in the most efficient and effective manner possible while preserving the community’s quality of life. In the way that other cities in California permit limited placement of signs on some parts of public property, so too we plan to approach the leaders of Hermosa Beach in order to craft a solution that is it fit for all parties involved.
How can I get more information about real estate signs in Hermosa Beach?
You may contact David Kissinger at SBAOR Government Affairs at (310)326-3010 ext. 725 or david@southbayaor.com. Watch this space for more updates as they become available. In addition, you may review information available at the Hermosa Beach website, and in particular in the Department of Code Enforcement or by calling (310)318-0235.
