HomeMy WebLinkAbout6406ORDINANCE NO. 6 4 0 6
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF AUBURN, WASHINGTON, EXTENDING
AND AMENDING CHAPTER 18.56 OF THE
AUBURN CITY CODE, RELATING TO THE
REGULATION OF THE ALLOWANCE, DIMENSIONS
AND LOCATION OF SIGNS
WHEREAS, on February 6, 2006, the Auburn City Council adopted
Ordinance No. 5993, revising and amending the City of Auburn Sign Code; and
WHEREAS, on April 18, 2011, the Auburn City Council passed Ordinance
No. 6360 that established one (1) year interim zoning controls pertaining to the
allowance, dimensions, and location of real estate signs not currently permitted
by existing sign regulations in the public right -of -way or on private property relate
to the sale, lease, or rent of residential and non - residential development
properties; and
WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 6360 was developed in response to multiple
requests from developers and owners of residential and non - residential real
property in the City seeking authorization for the placement of real estate signs
on public and private properties in locations, numbers and of a size than is
currently allowable under existing City regulations. The Ordinance's key purpose
was to assist in local economic development associated with the sale and
development of residential and non - residential property in the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council continues to find that current economic
situations warrants reconsideration of existing regulations related to residential
and non - residential real estate signs and that the nature and impact of the
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 1 of 26
current economic situations necessitate the temporary allowance of residential
and non - residential real estate signs not currently allowed under existing City
Code subject to compliance with standards and procedures specified herein;
and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed work
study session on January 4, 2012 and February 7, 2012 in order to fully consider
all the options and alternatives for such regulations, and to fully investigate and
review all of the factors involved in developing appropriate regulation of different
sizes and types of residential and non - residential real estate signs; and
WHEREAS, following proper notice, the City of Auburn Planning
Commission held a public hearing on March 6, 2012, on the proposed code
amendments to regulate the allowance, dimensions, and location of real estate
signs; and
WHEREAS, after fully considering the testimony and information
presented at the public hearing, the Planning Commission made its
recommendations for code amendments to the City of Auburn City Council; and
WHEREAS, in its deliberations of the proposed text amendments to the
Auburn Sign Code, the City of Auburn Planning Commission considered and
recommended to the City Council that, the provisions of the Interim Sign Code
remain in effect until April 22, 2013, and thereafter the interim sign code be
superseded and replaced with the Sign Code it replaced as adopted by
Ordinance No. 5993 and 6403; and
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 2 of 26
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed and considered the Planning
Commission recommendations.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUBURN,
WASHINGTON, DO ORDAIN as follows:
Section 1. EXTENSION OF INTERIM SIGN CODE. That Chapter
18.56 of the Auburn City Code, the City of Auburn "Interim" Sign Code, as
adopted in Ordinance No. 6360 on April 18, 2011, as amended by Ordinance No.
6403, adopted on February 21, 2012, be and the same hereby is extended and
shall remain in full force and effect until April 22, 2013, reading as follows:
Chapter 18.56
SIGNS
Sections:
18.56.010 Intent.
18.56.020 Definitions.
18.56.025 Real estate signs.
18.56.030 General provisions, all districts.
18.56.040 Regulation by district.
18.56.050 Administrative provisions.
18.56.060 Deviations, variances and appeals.
18.56.070 Liability.
18.56.080 Conflicts repealed.
18.56.010 Intent.
The overall purpose of this chapter is to enhance and maintain the
aesthetic character, to promote the public health, safety and general
welfare, and to increase the effectiveness of visual communication in the
city. This chapter is also intended to avoid visual clutter that may
adversely impact traffic and pedestrian safety, or be adverse to property
values, business opportunities and the city's appearance and to prevent
and abate public nuisances. The purpose of this chapter is implemented
by controlling the construction, location, use and maintenance of all signs
and sign structures. It is also the intent of this chapter to afford
noncommercial speech the same or greater protection afforded
commercial speech and to not regulate noncommercial speech to a
stricter standard than commercial speech. This chapter is further intended
to support local businesses in the city and the city's overall economy by
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 3 of 26
providing additional and increased opportunities for the use and siting of
temporary and portable signage subject to conditions, including but not
limited to time, size, location and placement. (Ord. 6403 § 1, 2012, Ord.
6353 § 1, 2011; Ord. 6327 § 1, 2010; Ord. 6263 § 1, 2009; Ord. 5993 § 1,
2006; Ord. 4773 § 1, 1995; Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
18.56.020 Definitions.
The following definitions are specific to this chapter and are to be
used only for the implementation of this chapter:
A. "Animated sign" means any sign that flashes or simulates
motion with an electronic or manufactured source of supply or contains
wind - actuated motion (except for flags and banners). An animated sign
may also be a sign that meets the definition of "changing message
center" or "revolving sign."
B. "Banner" means a temporary sign constructed of fabric,
vinyl, or other durable material; which is not the primary identification for
the organization, event or product advertised; and which is primarily
promotional in nature.
C. "Billboard" means a large outdoor advertising sign
containing a message, commercial or otherwise, unrelated to the use or
activity on the property on which the sign is located and /or to any use or
activity in the immediate area (such as is the case with an off - premises
sign) and which is customarily leased for commercial purposes. The
approximate size of the billboard faces range from 12 to 14 feet in height
and 24 to 48 feet in width.
D. "Changing message center" means an electronically
controlled message center that displays different copy changes on the
same Tamp bank.
E. "Directional sign" means a sign which is located to guide or
direct pedestrian or vehicular traffic to parking entrances, exits, and
service areas, and may not exceed six square feet in area or 10 feet in
height. For projects that have parking lots in excess of 500 spaces, the
sign area may be 10 square feet and the sign height 15 feet.
F. "Double -faced sign" means a sign with two faces.
G. "Electrical sign" means a sign or sign structure in which
electrical wiring, connections, and /or fixtures are used as part of the sign
proper.
H. "Facade" means the entire building front, or street wall
face, including grade to the top of the parapet or eaves, and the entire
width of the building elevation.
I. "Flashing sign" means an electrical sign or a portion
thereof which changes light intensity in a sudden transitory burst, or which
switches on and off in a constant pattern in which more than one -third of
the nonconstant light source is off at any one time.
J. "Freestanding sign" means a sign that meets the definition
of "ground sign" (also commonly referred to as a monument sign), or
"pole sign." Signs attached to fences or other structures that are not
defined as buildings will be considered freestanding signs.
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 4 of 26
K. "Frontage" means the measurement, in linear feet, of the
length of the property line for a single- tenant building or length of leased
building frontage for multitenant buildings or multibuilding complexes.
L. "Grade" means the relative existing ground level in the
immediate vicinity of the sign.
M. "Ground sign" means a sign attached to the ground and
supported by the ground or a built -up landscaped area such that the sign
appears solid with the ground. The height of a ground sign shall be
measured from the surrounding grade. Also commonly referred to as a
monument sign.
N. "Identification sign" means a sign containing the name of
the business establishment, occupant of the building or tenant space
and /or address of the premises.
O. "Incidental sign" means a sign that is generally
informational and of a noncommercial nature intended primarily for the
convenience of the public and having a maximum area of two square feet.
Incidental signs include, but are not limited to: signs designating
restrooms, hours of operation, entrances and exits to buildings and
parking lots, help wanted, public telephones, etc. Also included are
property control and warning signs such as "no trespassing," "no
dumping," etc., and plaques, tablets or inscriptions which are an integral
part of a building.
P. "Mansard roof" means a sloped roof or roof -like facade
architecturally able to be treated as a building wall. Q. "Marquee"
means a permanent structure attached to, supported by, and projecting
from a building and providing protection from the weather elements. For
the purpose of this chapter, a freestanding, permanent roof -like structure
providing protection from the elements, such as a service station gas
pump canopy, will also be considered a marquee. The term "marquee"
also includes canopy.
R. "Marquee sign" means any sign which forms part of or is
integrated into a marquee and which does not extend horizontally beyond
the limits of such marquee. For the purpose of this chapter, a marquee
sign will be considered as a wall sign.
S. "Median sign" means a sign that is placed within the
median of a public street.
T. "Multiple- building complex" means a group of commercial
or industrial structures, developed as a group either simultaneously or in
phases, with more than one building per parcel.
U. "Multiple- tenant building" means a single structure housing
more than one retail business, office or commercial venture but not
including residential apartment buildings, which share the same lot,
access and /or parking facilities.
V. "On- premises sign" means a sign which carries
advertisements incidental to a lawful use of the premises on which it is
located, including signs indicating the business transacted, services
rendered, goods sold or produced on the premises, name of the person,
firm or corporation occupying the premises.
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 5 of 26
W. "Off- premises sign" means any sign which advertises an
establishment, merchandise, service, goods, or entertainment which is
sold, produced, and manufactured, or furnished at a place other than on
the property on which said sign is located.
X. "Parapet" means a false front or wall extension above the
roofline.
Y. "Perimeter" means a square or rectangle required to
enclose the sign area.
Z. "Portable sign" means any sign made of any material,
including paper, cardboard, wood or metal, which is capable of being
moved easily and is not permanently affixed to the ground, structure or
building. This also includes sidewalk or sandwich board signs, except
those worn by a person.
AA. "Premises" means the real estate as a unit, which is
involved by the sign or signs mentioned in this chapter.
BB. "Projecting sign" means a sign which is attached to a
structure or building wall in such a manner that the leading edge extends
more than 16 inches beyond the surface of said structure or wall but does
not extend more than five feet beyond the property line, extends no more
than six inches above any roofline, and meets all standards for ground
clearance. Signs that meet the definition of "marquee sign" or "suspended
sign" will not be considered a "projecting sign."
CC. "Real estate sign" means a portable sign erected by the
owner, or the owner's agent, advertising the real estate upon which the
sign is located for rent, lease or sale.
DD. "Revolving sign" means any sign that rotates or turns in
motion by electrical or mechanical means in a circular pattern.
EE. "Roof sign" means a sign erected upon or above a roof or
parapet of a building or structure. Mansard roof signs shall be considered
as wall signs. Roof signs may not extend more than five feet in height
above the roof.
FF. "Sign" means any visual communication device, structure,
or fixture which is visible from any right -of -way intended to aid a land use
in promoting the sale or identification of a product, good or service using
graphics, symbols, or written copy. For the purpose of this chapter, a sign
shall not be considered to be building or structural design. It shall be
restricted solely to graphics, symbols, or written copy that is meant to be
used in the aforementioned way. This definition shall include inflatable
signs, balloons or other similar devices.
GG. "Sign area" means:
1. The total area of a sign visible from any one viewpoint or
direction, excluding the sign support structure, architectural
embellishments, or framework that contains no written copy, and includes
only one side of a double -faced sign.
2. Individual letter signs using a wall as the background
without added decoration or change in wall color shall be calculated by
measuring the perimeter enclosing each letter. The combined total area
of each individual letter shall be considered the total area of the sign.
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 6 of 26
3. Module signs consisting of more than one sign cabinet
shall be computed by adding together the total area of each module.
4. Perimeter of sign area shall be established by the smallest
rectangle enclosing the extreme limits of the letter module or advertising
message being measured.
HH. "Sign height" means the vertical distance measured from
the adjacent grade to the highest point of the sign.
II. "Sign structure" means any structure that supports or is
capable of supporting any sign as defined in this chapter. A sign structure
may be a single pole or may or may not be an integral part of the building
or structure.
JJ. "Single- tenant building" means a commercial building or
structure that contains one enterprise or occupant. Buildings within a
multibuilding complex may not be considered a single- tenant building.
KK. "Special event signage" means temporary signs including
posters, flags, pennants, and inflatable materials; which are not the
primary identification for the organization, event or product advertised;
and which are primarily intended for short-term promotional periods.
LL. "Suspended sign" means a sign that is attached to and
suspended from a marquee or canopy, and subject to right -of -way and
clearance regulations.
MM. "Temporary sign" means any sign or advertising display
constructed of wood, vinyl, cloth, canvas, light fabric, paper, cardboard, or
other light materials, with or without frames, intended to be displayed for a
limited time only. This definition shall include inflatable signs.
NN. "Traffic hazard" means any sign which does not meet city
standards for clear zone or sight distance or which does not meet the
requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
00. 'Wall sign" means a sign attached or erected parallel to
and extending not more than 16 inches from the facade or face of any
building to which it is attached and supported through its entire length,
with the exposed face of the sign parallel to the plane of said wall or
facade. 'Window signs" which do not meet the definition of a "temporary
sign" shall be considered as wall signs.
PP. 'Window sign" means a sign located inside or affixed to
windows of a building, whether temporary or permanent, lighted or
unlighted, which may be viewed from the exterior of the building.
QQ. "Feather banner or sign" means a fabric sign with printed
advertisement on one or two faces that is either stationary or rotates and
is attached on one side to a metal pole or stake that is placed in the
ground or attached to a secure object.
RR. "Off- premises directional sign" means a sign located on
private property or in the public right -of -way as authorized that directs or
guides persons to an establishment, merchandise, service, goods, or
entertainment which is sold, produced, and manufactured, or furnished at
a place other than on the property or public right -of -way on which said
sign is located. (Ord. 6403 § 3, 2012, Ord. 6353 § 3, 2011; Ord. 6327 § 3,
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 7 of 26
2010; Ord. 6263 § 3, 2009; Ord. 6166 § 1, 2008; Ord. 5993 § 1, 2006;
Ord. 4705 § 2, 1994; Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
18.56.025 Real estate signs.
No sign permit is required, except as provided in subsection F of
this section. All exterior real estate signs must be of wood or plastic or
other durable material.
The permitted signs are as follows:
A. Residential "for sale" and "sold" signs: such signs shall be
limited to one sign per street frontage not to exceed five square feet in
sign area per side, placed entirely on the property for sale, and not to
exceed a height of seven feet.
B. Residential directional "open house" signs: such signs shall be
limited to one sign per street frontage on the premises for sale and three
off - premises signs. However, if a broker /agent has more than one house
open for inspection in a single development or subdivision, he /she is
limited to four off - premises "open house" signs in the entire development
or subdivision. Such signs are permitted only during daylight hours and
when the broker /agent or seller or an agent is in attendance at the
property for sale. No such sign shall exceed five square feet in sign area
per side. The sign may be placed along the periphery of a public right -of-
way, provided it does not interfere with traffic safety, but it may not be
attached to a utility pole or traffic safety device.
C. Undeveloped commercial and industrial property "for sale or
rent" signs: one sign per street frontage advertising undeveloped
commercial and industrial property for sale or for rent is permitted while
the property is actually for sale or rent. The sign shall not exceed 32
square feet in sign area per side and eight feet in height.
D. Developed commercial and industrial property "for sale or rent"
signs: one sign per street frontage advertising a commercial or industrial
building for rent or sale is permitted while the building is actually for rent
or sale. If one face of the building is less than 10 feet from the building
line, the sign shall be placed on the building or in a window. The sign
shall not exceed eight feet in height; if freestanding, it shall be located
more than 15 feet from any abutting property line and a public right -of-
way line. Said sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in sign area per side.
E. Undeveloped residential property "for sale" signs: one sign per
street frontage advertising undeveloped residential property for sale is
permitted not exceeding 32 square feet in area per side, nor exceeding a
height of eight feet.
F. Additional signs: the planning and development director may
grant written authorization to allow temporary off - premises signs in
addition to those permitted above. The size of these signs shall be
determined by the planning and development director based on factors
including but not limited to surrounding land uses, sight distance and
traffic safety, but in no instances shall the height of the sign exceed eight
(8) feet and the total sign face area exceed sixty -four (64) square feet.
Notice of adjacent property owners shall not be required. Such additional
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 8 of 26
signs may be used to advertise open houses, to advertise properties for
sale, lease or rent, to provide directions to new developments, or similar
purposes. Such signs may be placed within the public right -of -way,
provided they do not interfere with traffic safety, but they may not be
attached to utility poles or traffic safety devices. For the placement of
signs within the public right -of -way, the planning and development
director shall consult with the City Engineer, Police Chief, Risk Manager
and other staff as appropriate regarding the placement, size and number
of signs that may be permissible within the public right -of -way and may
require hold harmless agreements or similar legal instrument prior to sign
placement as a condition of authorization. The planning and development
director shall determine the number and locations of such signs, and the
period during which they may be displayed. The planning and
development director shall take into account the number of existing signs
in any proposed location, and may limit or prohibit new ones so as to
prevent a traffic safety hazard or a detrimental effect on neighboring
property. (Ord. 6360 § 2, 2010; Ord. 5993 § 1, 2006.)
18.56.030 General provisions, all districts.
A. Community Signs. The planning, building and community
director may approve and permit to be erected entrance signs, at or near
the city limits, on city public right -of -way or on privately owned parcels
with the owner's permission, on which may be listed institutional names,
service clubs or organizations or points of interest or similar public
information. Right -of -way use permits may be required for signs located in
the public right -of -way, except as permitted by subsections (B)(1), (B)(2),
I or J of this section.
B. Temporary Signs.
1. Special event signage may be allowed in the RO, RO -H,
CN, C -1, C -2, C -3, DUC, BP, LF, M -1, M -2, EP and the nonresidential
used properties in the Terrace View District and the PUD- Lakeland Hills
South subject to obtainment of temporary sign permit authorization from
the city and compliance with the following as applicable:
a. The area of any single sign shall not exceed 30 square
feet;
b. Special event signs as authorized herein shall not have the
following:
i. Illumination of any kind;
ii. Strobing or blinking or flashing lights;
Electrical animation;
iv. Changeable reader copy, electronic or manual;
c. Special event signage shall not exceed the maximum
height limitations of the underlying zoning district;
d. Special event signs may have spinning elements attached
to them including but not limited to flags or pennants or balloons or
windsocks attached to them; provided, that they do not at any time
constitute a traffic safety or pedestrian safety hazard;
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 9 of 26
e. Balloons and windsock special event signage shall not be
authorized to be placed in the public rights -of -way or on -site landscape
areas or off -site on another private parcel of land that does not contain
the business or service being advertised;
f. Flag and pennant special event signage may be
authorized to be placed in the public rights -of -way; provided, that
placement in the public rights -of -way does not constitute a traffic safety or
pedestrian safety hazard and does not create nonconformance to the
Americans with Disabilities Act;
g. Flag and pennant special event signage may be
authorized to be placed in on -site landscape areas and off -site on another
private parcel of land that does not contain the business or service being
advertised; provided, that placement in on -site landscape areas does not
impede sight distance and that off -site placement on another property has
received prior property owner authorization.
2. Banners may be allowed in the RO, RO -H, CN, C -1, C -2,
C -3, DUC, BP, LF, M -1, M -2, EP and the nonresidential used properties
in the Terrace View District and the PUD- Lakeland Hills South, subject to
obtainment of temporary sign permit authorization from the city and
compliance with the following:
a. The area of any single banner used by a single business
on a site shall not exceed 32 square feet; provided, that banners crossing
roadways as approved by the city shall not exceed 120 square feet.
b. For multitenant buildings and /or multibusiness complexes,
each business shall be authorized to have a banner; provided, that the
size of each banner shall be limited to maximum of 32 square feet;
provided, that banners crossing roadways as approved by the city shall
not exceed 120 square feet.
c. Banners as authorized herein shall not have the following:
i. Illumination of any kind;
ii. Strobing or blinking or flashing lights;
iii. Electrical animation;
iv. Changeable reader copy, electronic or manual.
d. Banner signage shall not exceed the maximum height
limitations of the underlying zoning district.
e. Banners may have spinning elements attached to them
including but not limited to flags or pennants or balloons or windsocks
attached to them; provided, that they do not at any time constitute a traffic
safety or pedestrian safety hazard.
f. Banners may be authorized to be placed in the public
rights -of -way; provided, that placement in the public rights -of -way does
not constitute a traffic safety or pedestrian safety hazard or does not
create nonconformance to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
g. Banners may be authorized to be placed in on -site
landscape areas and off -site on another private parcel of land that does
not contain the business or service being advertised; provided, that
placement in on -site landscape areas does not impede sight distance and
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 10 of 26
that off -site placement on another property has received prior property
owner authorization.
C. Civic Events. Street banners may be permitted subject to
approval and installation in accordance with rules and procedures
established by the city of Auburn public works department.
D. Sign Lighting Provisions.
1. All lighting shall be arranged to reflect away from any
residential zone. No person shall construct, establish, create or maintain
any stationary exterior lighting or illumination system or any interior
system which is intended to be viewed from a street, highway or other
public thoroughfare used for vehicular traffic which system contains or
utilizes:
a. Any exposed incandescent lamp with wattage in excess of
25 watts;
b. Any exposed incandescent Tamp with a metallic reflector;
c. Any exposed incandescent lamp with an external reflector;
d. Any revolving beacon light;
e. Any continuous or sequential flashing operation, except as
allowed for changing message center signs in subsection F of this
section.
2. The provisions of subsection (D)(1) of this section shall not
apply to:
a. Lighting systems owned or controlled by any public agency
for the purpose of directing or controlling navigation, traffic, or highway or
street illumination;
b. Aircraft warning lights.
E. Construction Provisions, Sight Distance, Exposed Angle
Iron and Wire.
1. Each sign shall be adequately constructed in accordance
with the requirements of the International Building Code, as amended;
2. Signs containing electrical circuitry shall meet the
requirements of the National Electrical Code and all state laws, and shall
include an approved testing lab sticker;
3. Signs must meet vehicular sight distance requirements
established by the city engineer pursuant to the city of Auburn
engineering design standards;
4. When a projecting sign is used, no angle irons, guy wires
or braces shall be visible, except those that are an integral part of the
overall design, such as decorative metals or woods, or unless they are
required for safety.
F. Changing Message Center Signs. Where permitted under
this chapter, changing message center signs shall comply with the
following requirements; provided, that changing message center signs
that only display time and temperature or similar public service
information shall be exempt from these requirements.
1. Where Allowed. Changing message center signs shall only
be allowed in the I, P -1, C -1, C -2, DUC, C -3, M -1 and M -2 zones.
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 11 of 26
a. In the 1 and C -1 zones, changing message center signs
shall only be allowed on frontages along a collector, minor or principal
arterial street.
b. In the I zone, no changing message center sign shall
operate between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
c. In the DUC zone, changing message center signs shall
only be allowed when located adjacent and oriented to Auburn Way
North /Auburn Way South street frontages. (For other sign standards for
the DUC zone, see ACC 18.29.060(1)).
2. Number. No more than one changing message center sign
per street frontage shall be permitted on each property.
3. Sign Face Area. Except in the 1 and P -1 zones, the
changing message center shall not constitute more than 75 percent of a
sign's total sign face area.
4. Display.
a. The display of the sign shall not change more rapidly than
once every one and one -half seconds.
b. No scrolling message shall require more than five seconds
to be displayed in its entirety.
5. Light Levels.
a. Changing message center signs shall have installed
ambient light monitors and shall at all times allow such monitors to
automatically adjust the brightness level of the sign based on ambient
light conditions.
b. At no time shall a changing message center sign be
operated at a brightness level greater than the manufacturer's
recommended levels.
c. All lighting shall be arranged to reflect away from any
residential zone. The director shall have the authority to require a sign
permit application to include information to ensure the intent of this
requirement is met.
d. The brightness level shall not exceed 8,000 nits when
measured from the sign's face at its maximum brightness during daylight
hours and 500 nits when measured from the sign's face at its maximum
brightness between dusk and dawn.
6. On- Premises Advertising Only. Changing message center
signs shall only advertise on- premises products and services, or display
public service messages or messages on behalf of not - for - profit
organizations.
7. Additional Requirements. A copy of the manufacturer's
operating manual shall be provided to the city upon request.
8. Amortization. All changing message center signs that do
not comply with the requirements of subsections (F)(4) and (5) of this
section shall be brought into compliance with those requirements by April
1, 2009.
G. Change of Copy. The holder of a permit, for the duration
thereof, shall have the right to change the advertising copy on the
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 12 of 26
structure or sign for which the permit was issued without being required to
pay any additional fees.
H. Exemptions. Unless otherwise specified or unless
expressly prohibited, it is not the intent of this chapter to regulate the
following signs:
1. The flag of government or noncommercial institutions such
as schools, with the poles treated as structures;
2. Official public notices, official court notices;
3. Incidental signs (see ACC 18.56.020(0), Definitions);
4. Signs not visible from public right -of -way;
5. Lettering or symbols painted directly onto or flush- mounted
magnetically onto an operable vehicle;
6. Painting, repainting, cleaning, repairing, and other normal
maintenance unless structural or electrical changes are made;
7. Religious symbols not attached to a permitted sign;
8. Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings, dates of
erection and the like, which are incorporated into the building material and
facade;
9. Signs required by law, traffic or pedestrian control signs,
signs indicating scenic or historic points of interest, which are erected by
or on the order of a public officer in the performance of his or her public
duty;
10. Sculptures, fountains, mosaics, and design features which
do not incorporate advertising or identification;
11. Temporary signs limited exclusively to noncommercial
speech.
I. Portable signs shall be allowed in the RO, RO -H, CN, C -1,
C -3, BP, LF, M -1, M -2, EP and the nonresidential used properties in the
Terrace View District and the PUD- Lakeland Hills South subject to
obtainment of temporary sign permit authorization from the city and
compliance with the following as applicable:
1. For single- tenant buildings and /or sites, one portable sign
shall be allowed per building or property frontage, as applicable.
2. Each business in a multitenant building and /or
multibuilding complex shall be limited to a maximum of one portable sign.
3. For multitenant buildings and /or multibuilding complexes
that propose to place one or more portable signs within the on -site
landscaped area at the intersection of two public or private streets or at a
driveway intersection with a public or private street, compliance to the
city's minimum sight distance requirements shall be maintained at all
times.
4. For multitenant buildings and /or multibuilding complexes
that propose to place one or more portable signs along the property street
frontage of a public or private street, the total number of allowable
portable signs along said frontage shall be limited as follows to reduce the
visual and aesthetic impact to the city:
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 13 of 26
a. Zero through 25 lineal feet of public or private street
frontage equals one portable sign every three lineal feet of street frontage
up to a maximum of three signs at any given time.
b. Twenty -six through 50 lineal feet of public or private street
frontage equals one portable sign every three lineal feet of street frontage
up to a maximum of four signs at any given time.
c. Fifty -one through 75 lineal feet of public or private street
frontage equals one portable sign every three lineal feet of street frontage
up to a maximum of five signs at any given time.
d. Seventy -six through 100 lineal feet of public or private
street frontage equals one portable sign every three lineal feet of street
frontage up to a maximum of six signs at any given time.
e. One hundred through 125 lineal feet of public or private
street frontage equals one portable sign every three lineal feet of street
frontage up to a maximum of seven signs at any given time.
f. One hundred twenty -six through 150 lineal feet of public or
private street frontage equals one portable sign every three lineal feet of
street frontage up to a maximum of eight signs at any given time.
g. One hundred fifty -one through 175 lineal feet of public or
private street frontage equals one portable sign every three lineal feet of
street frontage up to a maximum of nine signs at any given time.
h. One hundred seventy -six lineal feet and greater of public
or private street frontage equals one portable sign every three lineal feet
of street frontage up to a maximum of 10 signs at any given time.
i. The planning director shall have the discretionary authority
to authorize additional portable signs along a public or private street
frontage when in his or her determination such allowance will not
substantively impact the visual and /or aesthetic impact to the city and
such allowance is warranted by physical site conditions or economic or
business considerations or other factors as deemed reasonable by the
planning director.
5. Portable signs shall not be located in one or more existing
parking spaces on a development site.
6. Portable signs as authorized herein shall not have the
following:
a. Illumination of any kind;
b. Strobing or blinking or flashing lights;
c. Electrical animation;
d. Changeable reader copy, electronic or manual.
7. Portable signs may have spinning elements including but
not limited to flags or pennants or balloons or windsocks attached to
them; provided, that they do not at any time constitute a traffic safety or
pedestrian safety hazard.
8. Portable signs advertising a business or service not
located on the same site shall be allowed to be located off -site from the
business or service being advertised; provided, that prior property owner
authorization has been obtained by said business operator or service
provider.
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 14 of 26
9. Each portable sign shall have a maximum total sign size of
36 inches in height and 30 inches in width and be limited to two faces.
10. Portable signs shall be allowed in the public right -of -way;
provided, that any and all signs are not placed within vehicle travel lanes
or improved /unimproved vehicle shoulder areas or bicycle lanes, are not
placed in front of or block access to marked bus transit stops, do not
interfere with or impede pedestrian traffic or crossings and do not create
nonconformance to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
J. Off - premises directional signs shall be allowed in the RO,
RO -H, CN, C -1, C -2, C -3, DUC, BP, LF, M -1, M -2, EP, and the
nonresidential used properties in the Terrace View District and the PUD-
Lakeland Hills South subject to obtainment of temporary sign permit
authorization from the city and compliance with the following as
applicable:
1. Off - premises directional signs as authorized herein shall
not have the following:
a. Illumination of any kind;
b. Strobing or blinking or flashing lights;
c. Electrical animation;
d. Changeable reader copy, electronic or manual.
2. Off - premises directional signs may have spinning elements
including but not limited to flags or pennants or balloons or windsocks
attached to them; provided, that they do not at any time constitute a traffic
safety or pedestrian safety hazard.
3. Off - premises directional signs may be authorized to be
placed in the public rights -of -way; provided, that placement in the public
rights -of -way does not constitute a traffic safety or pedestrian safety
hazard and does not create nonconformance to the Americans with
Disabilities Act.
4. Off - premises directional signs may be authorized to be
placed in on -site landscape areas, or off -site on another private parcel of
land that does not contain the business or service being advertised;
provided, that placement in on -site landscape areas does not impede
sight distance and that off -site placement on another property has
received prior property owner authorization.
5. Off - premises directional signs shall not be located in one
or more existing parking spaces on a development site.
6. Off - premises directional signs shall have a maximum sign
face area of 12 inches by 24 inches and a total height of 42 inches
inclusive of any wood, metal, plastic or other support and a maximum of
two sign faces.
K. Prohibited Signs. From and after the effective date of the
ordinance codified in this chapter, it shall be unlawful for any person to
erect or place within the city, except as otherwise authorized:
1. A swinging projecting sign;
2. Portable signs, except as permitted by ACC 18.56.025
(Real estate signs), 18.56.040(E) (C -2 District) and subsections (I)(1)
through (10) of this section;
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 15 of 26
3. Banners, pennants, ribbons, streamers, spinners, rotating
or blinking lights, strings of lights, or similar devices, except as permitted
by subsection B of this section (Temporary Signs);
4. Flashing signs, except as permitted in subsection D of this
section (Sign Lighting Provisions);
5. Changing message center signs, except as allowed in the
I, P -1, C -1, C -2, C -3, M -1 and M -2 zones;
6. Signs attached to, or placed on, a vehicle or trailer parked
on private or public property that is not associated with the business
advertised on said sign(s). This provision is not to be construed as
prohibiting the identification of a firm or its principal products on a vehicle
used in the normal course of business. This does not include automobile
for sale signs or signs attached to franchised buses or taxis;
7. Private signs placed in or on a public right -of -way, except
for as expressly permitted by this chapter;
8. Any sign which constitutes a traffic hazard or detriment to
traffic safety by reason of its size, location, movement, coloring, or
method of illumination, or by obstructing the vision of drivers, or detracting
from the visibility of any official traffic control device by diverting or
tending to divert the attention of drivers of moving vehicles from traffic
movement on streets, roads, intersections, or access facilities. No sign
shall be erected so that it obstructs the vision of pedestrians by glare or
method of illumination or constitutes a hazard to traffic. No sign may use
words, phrases, symbols or characters in such a manner as to interfere
with, mislead, or confuse traffic;
9. Any sign or advertising structure or supporting structure
that is torn, damaged, defaced or destroyed;
10. Signs attached to poles installed by governmental
agencies, utility poles, trees, rocks or other natural features;
11. Signs attached to benches, garbage cans, or other street
furniture located within the public right -of -way;
12. Rotating signs;
13. Billboards;
14. Any sign which does not structurally or materially conform
to the requirements of the city's adopted International Building Code.
L. Nonconforming Signs. Permanent signs established legally
prior to the adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter that do not
conform to the regulations of this chapter with regard to number, size,
height or location shall be allowed to remain as legal nonconforming signs
except as follows:
1. Whenever a new building replaces the principal building.
2. When there is an expansion of an existing building, the
requirements of this section shall apply only if there is an increase in floor
area of 25 percent or more (including the cumulative increase of previous
expansions after the effective date of the ordinance amending this
section).
3. Whenever a nonconforming use is replaced by a
conforming use, the requirements of this section shall apply in full to the
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 16 of 26
new use if and only if there is a change in required signage due to the
zoning district.
4. Any sign, including the sign structure, now or hereafter
existing which no longer advertises a bona fide business conducted or a
product sold. Such sign(s) shall be taken down and removed by the
owner, agent or person having the beneficial use of the land, building or
structure upon which such sign may be found within 90 days after written
notification from the building official.
M. Master Sign Plans Authorized. The planning, building and
community director has the authority to require a master sign plan to
ensure a consistent and coordinated signage scheme for development
proposals. In approving master sign plans under the provisions of this
subsection, the director has the authority to approve signage schemes
that allow for signs greater in area and height than allowed in the
particular zone in which the development is located when a coordinated
signage scheme is used. Master signage plans shall be recorded.
N. Maintenance and Safety. All permanent, temporary and
portable signs and components thereof must be maintained in good repair
and in a safe, neat, clean and attractive condition. Failure to maintain a
sign(s) in accordance with this subsection shall be subject to the code
compliance provisions of the Auburn City Code. (Ord. 6403 § 5, 2012,
Ord. 6353 § 5, 2011; Ord. 6327 § 5, 2010; Ord. 6287 § 2, 2010; Ord.
6263 § 5, 2009; Ord. 6166 § 2, 2008; Ord. 5993 § 1, 2006; Ord. 5342 § 2,
2000; Ord. 4705 § 2, 1994; Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
18.56.040 Regulation by district.
A. R -R, R -S, LHRS, R -1, LHR1, R -2, LHR2, R -3, LHR3, R-4,
LHR4, R -MHP, LHRMHP Zoning Districts (Nonresidential Uses, Except
as Noted).
1. Residential entry monument: A cumulative area of 50
square feet or 10 feet in height (highest point of sign structure) not to
exceed two per entrance; provided, that no sign exceeds 32 square feet
in area.
2. Maximum sign area of all signs is 40 square feet per
frontage.
3. Freestanding Signs.
a. Total number permitted: one per frontage not to exceed
two total freestanding signs per property.
b. Maximum height: 10 feet.
c. Maximum area: 32 square feet per face, calculated at a
rate of one square foot of sign area for every three lineal feet of frontage.
The minimum entitlement for freestanding signs shall be one 16- square-
foot sign for those sites with frontages less than 48 feet.
4. Wall Signs (for Building or Tenant Space).
a. Total number permitted: one per frontage not to exceed
two total wall signs per building.
b. Maximum area: 32 square feet, calculated at a rate of one
square foot of sign area for every three lineal feet of frontage. The
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 17 of 26
minimum entitlement for wall signs shall be one 16- square -foot sign for
those sites with frontages less than 48 feet.
5. Signs may be indirectly illuminated only.
B. RO, RO -H, C -N, C -1, LHC1, BP Zoning Districts
(Nonresidential Uses).
1. Maximum sign area of all signs is 150 square feet per
frontage.
2. Freestanding Signs.
a. Total number permitted: one per frontage not to exceed
two total.
b. Maximum height: 22 feet, 10 feet in the RO zone.
c. Maximum area: 100 square feet per face, 75 square feet
per face in the RO zone, calculated at a rate of one square foot of sign
area for every two lineal feet of frontage. Minimum entitlement for
freestanding signs shall be one sign at 32 square feet for those sites with
less than 64 feet of frontage.
d. If permitted, the second freestanding sign shall not exceed
50 percent of the area allowed for a single freestanding sign and 150 feet
measured in a straight -line distance must separate multiple pole signs.
3. Wall Signs (for Building or Tenant Space).
a. Total number permitted: One per frontage.
b. Maximum area: 100 square feet, calculated at a rate of one
square foot of sign area for every 1.5 lineal feet of frontage. For
multitenant buildings where freestanding signage contains the name of
not more than one tenant business (e.g., a prime tenant name or a
shopping center name), an additional 25 percent of wall signage per
tenant space shall be allowed. This increase in signage shall not apply to
minimum entitlement for wall signs, which shall be one sign at 16 square
feet.
c. Signs may be directly or indirectly illuminated.
4. Suspended Signs.
a. Total number permitted: one per entrance.
b. Maximum area: six square feet per face.
c. Minimum clearance is eight feet from sign to grade.
5. Projecting Signs.
a. Not permitted in C -N, RO or RO -H.
b. Total number permitted: one in lieu of a permitted
freestanding sign.
c. Maximum height: height requirement of the zoning district.
d. Maximum area: 50 percent of the area allowed for single
freestanding signs.
C P -1, LHP1, I, LHI Zones.
1. Freestanding Signs.
a. Total number permitted: one per frontage not to exceed
two total.
b. Maximum height: 18 feet.
c. Maximum area: 80 square feet per face, calculated at a
rate of one square foot of sign area for every two lineal feet of frontage.
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 18 of 26
The minimum entitlement for freestanding signs is one sign at 32 square
feet.
d. If permitted, the second freestanding sign shall not exceed 50
percent of the area allowed for a single freestanding sign and 150 feet
measured in a straight -line distance must separate multiple pole signs.
e. For projects, parcels or complexes that have a single street
frontage and more than 300 feet of street frontage, a changing message
center sign may be permitted for a total of two signs per frontage subject
to the following:
i. Only one changing message center is provided.
ii. Multiple signs are separated by at least 150 feet.
iii. The combined area of the two signs does not exceed 120
square feet in size and neither sign is greater than 80 square feet in size.
2. Wall Signs (for Building or Tenant Space).
a. Total number permitted: two per street frontage.
b. Maximum area: 50 square feet for total of all wall signs per
frontage.
c. Signs may be directly or indirectly illuminated.
D LF, M -1, M -2 Zoning Districts.
1. Maximum sign area of all signs is 150 square feet/frontage.
2. Freestanding Signs.
a. Total number permitted: two per frontage not to exceed
four total.
b. Maximum height: 30 feet.
c. Maximum area: 125 square feet per face, calculated at a
rate of one square foot of sign area for every two lineal feet of frontage.
Minimum entitlement for freestanding signs is 32 square feet for those
sites without 64 feet of frontage.
d. The total area of freestanding signs on any given frontage
shall not exceed the area allowed for a single freestanding sign.
e. The maximum height of signs located on a second or third
frontage shall be 20 feet.
f. Multiple freestanding signs must be separated by 150 feet
measured in a straight -line distance.
3. Wall Signs (for Building or Tenant Space).
a. Total number permitted: one per frontage.
b. Maximum area: 100 square feet, calculated at a rate of one
square foot of sign area for every 1.5 lineal feet of frontage.
4. Projecting Signs.
a. Total number permitted: one in lieu of a permitted
freestanding
b.
c.
freestanding
E.
1.
2.
of a specific
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 19 of 26
sign.
Maximum height: height requirement of the zoning district.
Maximum area: 50 percent of the area allowed for single
sign.
C -2 Zoning District.
Maximum sign area of all signs is 200 square feet.
Hanging signs that are designed to display the availability
product in a business, limited to three square feet and no
more than two such signs per business, shall be considered permanent
signs, but shall not be calculated as part of the maximum allowed
signage.
3. Freestanding Signs.
a. Freestanding signs are not allowed on properties abutting
or oriented toward Main Street.
b. Total number permitted: one per frontage not to exceed
two total.
c. Maximum height: 20 feet.
d. Maximum area: 75 square feet per face, calculated at a
rate of one square foot of sign area for each lineal foot of frontage.
Minimum entitlement for freestanding signs shall be one sign at 32 square
feet.
4. Wall Signs.
a. Total number permitted: one per frontage.
b. Maximum area: 150 square feet, calculated at a rate of one
square foot of sign area for every one lineal foot of frontage. For
multitenant buildings where freestanding signage contains the name of
not more than one tenant business (e.g., a prime tenant name or a
shopping center name), an additional 25 percent of wall signage per
tenant space shall be allowed. This increase in signage shall not apply to
minimum entitlement for walls signs, which shall be one sign at 16 square
feet.
5. Suspended Signs. One double -faced suspended sign, not
exceeding three square feet per face, may be allowed for each business
entrance. There shall be a minimum of eight feet of clearance between
the grade and the sign.
6. Portable Signs. One portable sign may be allowed for each
business entrance, not to exceed one portable sign per building frontage,
subject to the following:
a. May be placed within public right -of -way subject to the
guidelines provided by the planning and development director in
consultation with the city engineer such that sign does not interfere with
pedestrian or vehicular traffic and conforms to the requirements of the
Americans with Disabilities Act.
b. May not exceed 36 inches in height and 30 inches in width
and be limited to two faces.
c. May be displayed during business hours only.
d. Must be constructed of either wood or another sturdy
material to ensure stability in the wind.
e. May not move, spin, flash, or otherwise be animated.
f. Shall meet applicable supplemental design requirements
of the Auburn downtown association.
7. Supplemental Sign Standards, C -2 Zone.
a. Sign Design and Construction.
i. All signs, other than temporary signs, shall be made of
professional, durable materials such as wood, metal, and /or glass.
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 20 of 26
ii. Signs that are indirectly illuminated shall have their light
sources shielded from view.
iii. Internally illuminated signs are not permitted abutting or
oriented toward Main Street.
b. Sign Placement.
i. Signs shall be oriented toward pedestrian visibility and
shall be positioned at such a height as to be readable by pedestrians.
ii. Externally mounted wall signs shall not be mounted so as
to block building windows.
F. C -3 Zoning District.
1. Freestanding Signs.
a. Total number permitted: two per frontage not to exceed
four total.
b. Maximum height: 30 feet.
c. Maximum area: 200 square feet, calculated at a rate of one
square foot of sign area for every two lineal feet of frontage; provided,
that the maximum size of any sign does not exceed 125 square foot per
face. The minimum entitlement for freestanding signs is 32 square feet for
those sites without 64 feet of frontage.
d. The total area of freestanding signs on any given frontage
shall not exceed the area allowed for a single freestanding sign.
e. The maximum height of signs located on a second or third
frontage shall be 20 feet.
2. Wall Signs (for Building or Tenant Space).
a. Maximum area: 125 square feet, calculated at a rate of one
square foot of sign area for every 1.5 lineal feet of frontage.
3. Projecting Signs.
a. Total number permitted: one in lieu of a permitted
freestanding sign.
b. Maximum height: height requirement of the zoning district.
c. Maximum area: 50 percent of the area allowed for single
freestanding sign.
4. Suspended Signs.
a. Total number permitted: one.
b. Maximum placement height: 25 feet.
c. Maximum area: six square feet per face.
d. Minimum clearance is eight feet from sign to grade.
5. Off - Premises Signs.
a. Total number permitted: one per business and one per
parcel.
b. Location: Off - premises sign must be located in a zone that
permits off - premises signs.
c. Maximum height: 20 feet.
d. Maximum area: 50 percent of the area allowed for single
freestanding sign, calculated using the feet of frontage of the site where
the sign is located.
e. Must be within 750 feet of the business being advertised.
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 21 of 26
f. Must be separated from any existing pole sign a minimum
distance of 150 feet measured in a straight -line distance.
g. Sign can be no more than two faces.
h. Signs may be directly or indirectly illuminated.
G. EP Zoning District.
1. Maximum sign area of all signs is 150 square feet per
street frontage.
2. Freestanding Signs.
a. Freestanding signs shall be limited to ground signs.
b. Total number permitted: one per frontage not to exceed
two total.
c. Maximum height: 10 feet.
d. Maximum area: 100 square feet per face, calculated at a
rate of one square foot of sign area for every two lineal feet of frontage.
Minimum entitlement for freestanding signs is 32 square feet for those
sites with Tess than 64 feet of frontage.
e. Multiple freestanding signs must be separated by 150 feet
measured in a straight -line distance.
f. Minimum Yard Setbacks.
i. Directly illuminated signs: 10 feet;
ii. Indirectly illuminated signs: five feet.
3. Wall Signs (for Building or Tenant Space).
a. Total number permitted: one per frontage.
b. Maximum area: 100 square feet, calculated at a rate of one
square foot of sign area for every 1.5 lineal feet of frontage. For
multitenant buildings where freestanding signage contains the name of
not more than one tenant business (e.g., a prime tenant name), an
additional 25 percent of wall signage per tenant space shall be allowed.
This increase in signage shall not apply to minimum entitlement for wall
signs, which shall be one sign at 16 square feet. (Ord. 6287 § 2, 2010;
Ord. 6036 § 4, 2006; Ord. 5993 § 1, 2006; Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
18.56.050 Administrative provisions.
A. Permits Required. Except as provided in subsection B of
this section, no signs shall hereafter be erected, re- erected, constructed,
altered, or maintained, except as provided by this chapter and, when
required, a building permit for the same has been issued by the building
official. A separate permit shall be required for a sign or signs for each
business entity and /or a separate permit shall be required for each group
of signs on a single supporting structure.
1. Application for Permits. Application for sign permits shall
be made to the building official on a form as provided by the building
division. Such application shall require:
a. Name of business and address where work is to be
performed.
b. Name and address of property owner.
c. Name and title of the person completing the application.
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 22 of 26
d. Name and address, telephone number of the person or
firm doing the work and preferably the owner of said establishment.
e. Washington contractor's registration number, industrial use
permit number, sales tax number.
f. A site plan showing location of the sign in relation to
buildings, property lines and street right -of -way including the size and
location of all existing signs on the property.
g. A scale drawing of the proposed sign or sign revision
showing size, height, copy, structural and footing details, and material
specifications.
h. A description of work to be performed and type of sign.
i. Electrical Toad with name of electrical contractor
responsible for installation of service feed wires if other than sign
contractor.
j. Structural engineer's stamp required on those signs and
sign structures subject to wind and seismic forces.
2. Revocation of Permit. The building official may, in writing,
suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this chapter
whenever the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect
information supplied, or in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any
of the provisions of this chapter.
3. Permit Fee Schedule. The fees prescribed in the city's fee
schedule must be paid to the city for each sign installation for which a
permit is required by this chapter and must be paid before any such
permit is issued by the building official. Fees for building permits for each
sign erected, installed, affixed, structurally altered, relocated, or created
by painting shall be set in accordance with the city's fee schedule.
4. Sign permits shall be processed in accordance with the
relevant timelines and procedures identified in ACC Title 14, Project
Review.
B. Interpretation. In all applications for permits where a matter
of interpretation arises, the most restrictive definition shall prevail. (Ord.
5993 § 1, 2006; Ord. 4705 § 2, 1994; Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
18.56.060 Deviations, variances and appeals.
A. The planning and development director may grant up to a
50 percent deviation to the provisions of this sign code related to sign
height and sign area. In a petition for a deviation, the planning and
development director shall have the power and duty to review, decide,
grant, grant with conditions or deny the requested deviation. The planning
and development director may grant a deviation from the provisions of
this chapter only when the deviation is within 50 percent of the entitlement
and all of the following findings of fact are met:
1. The literal interpretation and strict application of the
provisions and requirements would cause undue and unnecessary
hardship because of unique or unusual conditions pertaining to the
specific building, parcel or property in question; and
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 23 of 26
2. The granting of the requested deviation would not be
materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property or
property owners in the vicinity; and
3. The granting of the deviation would not be contrary to the
general objective and intent of this chapter, this title, or the
comprehensive plan.
B. An applicant requesting an administrative deviation under
the provisions of this chapter shall submit the following, along with the
required filing fee:
1. A letter in memorandum format outlining how the request is
consistent with the criteria of this subsection.
2. A site plan that is accurately drawn to an engineered scale
of one inch equals 40 feet, one inch equals 20 feet, one inch equals 10
feet that includes the following information:
a. Boundaries and dimensions of the site,
b. Location of buildings, parking areas and adjacent streets,
c. Graphic representations of all existing signs including their
size, height and placement on the site,
d. Graphic representation of the proposed sign(s) subject to
the request,
e. Building elevation showing the placement of the sign on
that elevation, if applicable.
C. The action of the planning and development director
rejecting, approving or modifying any decision or application is a final
administrative decision subject to appeal to the city's hearing examiner.
Appeals of administrative decisions with regard to this chapter shall be
processed consistent with ACC 18.70.050.
D. The planning and development director shall render a
written decision on the requested deviation request within seven business
days of submittal of all required elements and filing fee.
E. Requests that exceed the 50 percent deviation or those
not related to allowable sign height or sign area shall be processed as a
variance in accordance with ACC 18.70.010.
F. The planning and development director may allow for the
repair or replacement of nonconforming signs that have a significant
historical or cultural element or are integral components of a building roof
or facade that has a significant historical or cultural element to which the
sign is a contributing component. (Ord. 6287 § 2, 2010; Ord. 5993 § 1,
2006; Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
18.56.070 Liability.
This chapter shall not be constituted to relieve from or lessen the
responsibility of any person owning, building, altering, constructing,
removing or moving any sign in the city for damages to anyone injured or
damaged either in person or property by any defect therein; nor shall the
city, or any agent thereof, be held as assuming such liability by reason of
permit or inspection authorized herein or a certificate of inspection issued
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 24 of 26
by the city or any of its agents. (Ord. 5993 § 1, 2006; Ord. 4229 § 2,
1987. Formerly 18.56.110.)
18.56.080 Conflicts repealed.
All sections or parts of sections of the municipal code, all
ordinances and all resolutions or parts of resolutions, in conflict herewith,
be and the same, are repealed to the extent of such conflict. (Ord. 5993 §
1, 2006; Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987. Formerly 18.56.120.)
Section 2. REVERSION OF PRIOR SIGN CODE. That effective on
April 22, 2013, Chapter 18.56 of the Auburn City Code, shall revert to the
language of the City of Auburn Sign Code as adopted in Ordinance No. 5993 on
February 6, 2006, as amended by Ordinance No. 6403, adopted on February 21,
2012, or as otherwise provided by City Ordinance.
Section 3. Implementation. The Mayor is hereby authorized to
implement such administrative procedures as may be necessary to carry out the
directions of this legislation.
Section 4. Severability. The provisions of this ordinance are
declared to be separate and severable. The invalidity of any clause, sentence,
paragraph, subdivision, section or portion of this ordinance, or the invalidity of the
application thereof to any person or circumstance shall not affect the validity of
the remainder of this ordinance, or the validity of its application to other persons
or circumstances.
///
///
///
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 25 of 26
Section 5. Effective date. This Ordinance shall take effect and be
in force five days from and after its passage, approval and publication as
provided by law, and as provided herein.
ATTEST:
INTRODUCED: r1PR 16 2012
PASSED: APR 162jfl
APPROVED:
PETER B. L IS, MAYOR
Dan %Ile E. Daskam, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
•
Dail B. Heid, City ' orn:
Published:
Ordinance No. 6406
March 21, 2012
Page 26 of 26