LAGUNA HILLS

The City Council ruled against Shurgard Storage Centers Inc. last week, limiting its wall signs and closing its outdoor storage area.

Shurgard must empty its outdoor lot of recreational vehicles and plant at least 15 trees along its building, at Alicia Parkway and Costeau, before it can install new signs, the council decided.

The city’s standards allow a maximum of 150 square feet of signs, but Shurgard was proposing 512 square feet. The council agreed to allow the company 291 square feet of signs, which can include a painted lighthouse logo and three smaller signs.

Construction Manager Tony Kippes said the company bought the building with the outdoor storage area in use and was under the impression that vehicles could continue to be stored there.

In June, residents complained to the council about the vehicle storage and bright security lights that shine in their windows. Shurgard representatives said they have “blacked out” lights facing homes.