HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-06-2006 ITEM VIII-A-2CITY OF �*
n WASHINGTON
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject:
Date: January 31,
Proposed Sign Code ACC Chapter 18.56
2006
Department: Planning/
Attachments:
Budget Impact:
Building and Community
Ordinance No. 5993; Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee
Goals and Outcomes; Comment Letters; January 3,
2006 staff memo to Planning Commission; SEPA
DNS
Administrative Recommendation:
City Council introduce and adopt Ordinance No. 5993.
Background Summary:
In October 2002 the City began working with a Mayor appointed Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee to develop
a new sign code for the City of Auburn. This Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee consisted of individuals
representing various interest groups/committees including, but not limited to, a representative of the
Auburn Planning Commission (Commissioner Dave Peace), Auburn City Council (Councilmember Sue
Singer), sign company (Mike Harbin Jr.), Auburn Downtown Association (Al Rossi), Auburn Area
Chamber of Commerce (former President Mike Morrisette), real estate industry (Sam Pace), and
representatives from other city boards and commissions.
The Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee concluded its work by developing a proposed new sign code in the
summer of 2004. About that same time (June 2004), a federal district court issued a decision relating to
distinctions in content in regulating signs.
On January 4, 2006 Planning Commission meeting held a public hearing on the proposed sign code.
Following the public hearing, the Planning Commission made a recommendation to the City Council.
Since the time of the January 4, 2006 Planning Commission public hearing, staff has received comments
from councilmembers. Amendments to address those comments have been developed and are
incorporated in the attached draft ordinance. This includes additional language to the revision to the
approval process (from hearing examiner to administrative) for off-site real estate signs (Page 5),
additional language to the Master Sign Plan provision to provide for more flexibility (Page 8), and a
revision to the deviation percentage and criteria (Page 13 and 14).
On January 23, 2006, the proposed sign code was reviewed by the Public Works Committee and also
recommended for approval to the City Council by the Planning and Community Development: Committee.
L0206-3 03.4.1.1.2
Reviewed by Council & Committees:
Reviewed by Departments & Divisions:
❑ Arts Commission COUNCIL COMMITTEES:
❑ Building ❑ M&O
❑ Airport ® Finance
❑ Cemetery ❑ Mayor
❑ Hearing Examiner ® Municipal Serv.
❑ Finance ❑ Parks
❑ Human Services ❑ Planning & CD
❑ Fire ❑ Planning
❑ Park Board ❑Public Works
❑ Legal ❑ Police
❑ Planning Comm. ❑ Other
❑ Public Works ❑ Human Resources
❑ Information Services
Action:
Committee Approval: ❑Yes ❑No
Council Approval: ❑Yes []No Call for Public Hearing
Referred to Until —/—/
Tabled Until
Councilmember: Norman Staff: Krauss
Meeting Date: February 6, 2006 Item Number: VIII.A.2
AUBURN * MORE THAN YOU IMAGINED
Agenda Subject: Date:
Proposed Sign Code (ACC Chapter 18.56) January 31, 2006
FACTS AND FINDINGS
1. Title 18 of the Auburn City Code (ACC), related to zoning, includes Chapter 18.56 entitled "Signs".
ACC Chapter 18.56 provides for the regulation of signage in the City of Auburn.
2. In 2002, an Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee was appointed by the Mayor to review the City of Auburn's
existing sign code regulations and to propose updates/changes. The Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee
was comprised of representatives of various interest groups/committees.
3. In preparing an updated sign code for eventual consideration by the Planning Commission and City
Council, the Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee developed certain goals and outcomes (attached) it hoped
to achieve with new sign regulations. Included amongst those goals and objectives was a sign code
that:
• Recognizes that the function of signage is to effectively communicate information to
targeted audiences;
• Recognizes the importance of commercial signage, both for the current and future
economic vitality of the city, municipal revenues, and the success of businesses that
make important investments in such commercial signage;
Ensures (without unduly compromising the purpose or function of commercial
signage) that signs in the city to not unreasonably degrade the aesthetic character of
the city;
• Provides for reasonable visibility for businesses;
Encourages improved quality of signage design and materials in the city;
• Provides consistent, clear guidelines for all sign types;
Is easily explained and interpreted for both staff and applicants;
• Incorporates tables and graphics in addition to code text;
Recognizes different signage needs for different districts and special developments;
Balances corporate architecture with local character and context; and
Includes mechanisms for administrative interpretation and flexibility.
4. The Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee finalized its recommendation on a sign code update in the summer
of 2004. At about that same time (June 2004), a federal district trial court decision ruled that the
different treatment of signs based on a sign's content in the absence of a rational reason for such a
distinction and in the absence of a relationship between the content -based distinction and safety and
aesthetic goals is unconstitutional. This decision required that the City to review the Ad Hoc Sign
Code Committee's proposal and delayed the proposed sign code's consideration.
5. The Federal District Trial Court decision is now on appeal at the United States Ninth District Court but
has not yet been heard. The outcome of the appeal has implications for how signs are regulated,
including signage that has traditionally been regulated by content such as real estate signs.
6. On January 4, 2006 the Planning Commission held a public hearing to take public testimony on the
proposed sign code. Following the public hearing the Planning Commission forwarded a
recommendation to the City Council.
7. Pending an outcome of the Federal District Trial Court appeal (finding #5), a reasonable response
would be for the City to maintain the City's existing sign code regulations related to real estate signs
so that the City's regulation are no more content based than they are currently and then to reevaluate
those regulations based upon the outcome of the appeal currently in process. Proposed Ordinance
No. 5993 reflects this approach.
8. Another principal reflected in the proposed sign code is that non-commercial speech is generally
afforded greater protection that commercial speech. The City must therefore carefully weigh
regulations related to non-commercial speech including, as examples, political signs and signs
Page 2 of 3
Agenda Subject: Date:
Proposed Sign Code (ACC Chapter 18.56) January 31, 2006
related to religious institutions. This concept is reflected in the sign code's intent statement (proposed
ACC section 18.56.010) which now proposes language as follows:
"...It is also the intent of this chapter to afford non-commercial speech the same or greater
protection afforded commercial speech and to not regulate non-commercial speech to a
stricter standard than commercial speech."
Other revisions to the sign code proposed by the Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee have been made to
reflect this concept.
9. Although revisions to the Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee's work have been made in response to court
decisions, the significant proportion of the Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee's recommendations remain
intact, including sign regulations by zoning district (proposed ACC section 18.56.040). Proposed ACC
section 18.56.040 regulates the size and height of signs by zoning district.
10. The proposed sign code introduces an administrative deviation process that does not presently exist
for signs in the current City Code. As recommended by the Planning Commission, proposed ACC
section 18.56.060 allows the Planning, Building and Community Director to grant up to a 25 percent
deviation to the provisions of the proposed sign code related to sign height and sign area provided
that the applicant can demonstrate certain findings of fact are met.
Based on City Council comments to date, the attached draft ordinance has revised the administrative
deviation allowed from 25 percent to 50 percent.
11. In addition, staff has identified and incorporated additional amendments including:
• Proposed ACC 18.56.030(A). Add language specifying a right of way use permit may also
be required for "Civic Signs" in the right-of-way; and,
• Amending the Planning Commission recommendation deleting ACC section 18.56.030(C)
"Civic Events" by adding language stating that such "Civic Event" signs on Main Street are
permitted subject to Public Works Department policy/standards. This clarifies that such signs
on Main Street are permitted, whereas deleting the entire reference to "Civic Event" signs
might imply that they are not.
12. A Final SEPA Determination of Non -Significance (DNS) was issued on the proposed sign code
(attached) on April 13, 2005 with no appeal having been filed.
13. The proposed sign code was transmitted to the Washington State Department of Community, Trade
and Economic Development (DCTED) and other State agencies in February 10, 2005 for the 60 day
state agency review period. No comments were received from State agencies during that comment
period.
14. On January 23, 2006, the proposed sign code was reviewed by the Public Works Committee and also
recommended for approval to the City Council by the Planning and Community Development
Committee.
Page 3 of 3
ORDINANCE NO. 5 9 9 3
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF AUBURN, WASHINGTON AMENDING CHAPTER 18.56
OF THE AUBURN CITY CODE RELATING TO SIGNS
WHEREAS, in 2002, Auburn Mayor, Peter B. Lewis, designated an Ad Hoc Sign
Code Committee to review the City's existing sign code regulations and to suggest
amendments, as warranted; and,
WHEREAS, the Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee represented a wide range of
community interests including, as examples, a representative from the Chamber of
Commerce, Auburn Downtown Association, City Council, Planning Commission, sign
company, real estate industry and other city boards and commissions; and,
WHEREAS, the Ad Hoc Sign Code committee established purposes for its work
including,
Providing community input on the then existing sign code's strengths and
weaknesses;
• Serving as representatives of respective professions and/or community
affiliations in addressing the sign code;
• Reviewing the size, number, types, and area of signs that are currently
allowed; and
• Reviewing and suggesting improvements to the sign code to meet the certain
goals; and,
WHEREAS the Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee identified desired outcomes for its
work on a sign code including,
Recognizing that the function of signage is to effectively communicate
information to targeted audiences;
• Recognizing the importance of commercial signage, both for the current and
future economic vitality of the city, municipal revenues, and the success of
businesses that make important investments in such commercial signage;
• Ensuring (without unduly compromising the purpose or function of
commercial signage) that signs in the city to not unreasonably degrade the
aesthetic character of the city;
• Providing for reasonable visibility for businesses;
• Encouraging improved quality of signage design and materials in the city;
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Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 1 of 33
• Providing consistent, clear guidelines for all sign types;
• Requirements that are easily explained and interpreted for both staff and
applicants;
• Incorporating tables and graphics in addition to code text;
• Recognizing different signage needs for different districts and special
developments;
• Balancing corporate architecture with local character and context; and
• Including mechanisms for administrative interpretation and flexibility; and,
WHEREAS, the Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee sought to recommend
amendments that,
• Support the above outcomes;
• Are supported by their respective constituent groups; and
• Meet the needs of both city staff and the community as a whole to the
greatest extent possible; and,
WHEREAS, the Ad Hoc Sign Code Committee finalized its recommendation on a
sign code update in the summer of 2004; and,
WHEREAS, at about that same time, in June 2004 a federal district trial court
decision ruled that the different treatment of signs based on a sign's content in the
absence of a rational reason for such a distinction and in the absence of a relationship
between the content -based distinction and the safety and aesthetic goals is
unconstitutional; and,
WHEREAS, that decision is now on appeal at the United States Ninth District
Court but has not yet been heard; and,
WHEREAS, the outcome of the appeal has implications for how signs are
regulated, including signage that has traditionally been regulated by content such as
real estate signs; and,
WHEREAS, pending an outcome of the case on appeal, a reasonable response
would be for the City to maintain the City's existing sign code regulations related to real
estate signs so that the City's regulation are no more content based than they are
currently and then to reevaluate those regulations based upon the outcome of the
appeal currently in process;
WHEREAS, this response is reflected in this ordinance; and,
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Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 2 of 33
WHEREAS, numerous study sessions were held with Planning Commission in
the development of the updated and revised sign code; and
WHEREAS, after proper notice published in the City's official newspaper at least
ten (10) days prior to the date of hearings, the City of Auburn Planning Commission on
Wednesday January 4, 2006, conducted a public hearing on the proposed new sign
regulations; and,
WHEREAS, at the public hearings the City of Auburn Planning Commission
heard public testimony and took evidence and exhibits into consideration; and,
WHEREAS, on January 23, 2006 the Planning and Community Development
Committee of the Auburn City Council made a recommendation to the Auburn City
Council; and,
WHEREAS, SEPA review (City SEPA file SEP05-0005) was conducted on the
proposed sign amendments with a Determination of Non -Significance issued April 13,
2005, a final DNS issued with no appeals having been filed; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed sign amendments was sent to the State Department
of Community, Trade and Economic Development and other State agencies for the 60 -
day review process in accordance with RCW 36.70A.106 and received by DCTED on
February 10, 2005.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUBURN
WASHINGTON, DO ORDAIN as follows:
Section 1. AMENDMENT TO CITY CODE. That Chapter 18.56 of the Auburn
City Code, entitled "Signs" is amended to read as follows:
Chapter 18.56
SIGNS
Sections:
18.56.010 PUFPeseintent.
18.56.020 Definitions.
18.56.025 Real Estate Signs
18.56.030 General Provisions, all districts
18.56.040 SpeGial sig Regulation by District.
18.56.050 GenefatAdministrative provisions.
18.56.060 €xeFnpt#eR &.-Deviations, variances and appeals
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Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 3 of 33
18.66.100 Appeals and YaFiaRraes.
18.56.44-9070 Liability.
18.56.0080 Conflicts repealed.
18.56.010 RUFpeselntent.
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 sifjr-'-scity's appearance and to prevent
and abate public nuisances. The purpose of this chapter is implemented by controlling
the design, quality of rnateFials, construction, location, use and maintenance of all signs
and sign structures. It is also the intent of this chapter to afford non-commercial speech
the same or greater protection with at least the same privileges that afforded
commercial speech is afforded and to not regulate non-commercial speech to a stricter
standard than commercial speech. (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. "Abandonedsign" Us or exerts
"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. relied --puffs
ere-di#erePt
OR the same
lampbank"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.
ie 9r direst
7G--pf—GTrG'VT
RGt eXGeed six squaFe feet in aFea oF 10 feet iR height. Fer pFejeGts that have FneFe
feet and the
s+gn—height -deet"Bill board" 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 -premise sign) and which is customarily leased for commercial
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Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 4 of 33
purposes. The approximate sizes of the billboard faces range from twelve (12) to
fourteen (14) feet in height and twenty-four (24) to forty-eight (48) feet in width.
D. "Changing message
center" means an electronically controlled public service time and temperature sign;
message center; or signs that display different copy changes of a public service or
commercial nature on the same lamp bank. For purposes of the sign code, a changing
message center shall mean a "read erboard sign".
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 (6) square feet in area or ten (10) feet in height. For proie!cts that have
parking lots in excess of 500 spaces, then the sign area may be ten (10) square feet
and the sign height fifteen (15) feet.
F. "Double-faced sign" means a sign with two (2) 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.
F- 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 buildincelevation.
G. 1. "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 attaGhed-to-that meets the definition of
"ground and suppGFted by UpFffight6 oF bFaGes plaGed en GF i 4dsign„ (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.
fK. "Frontage" means the measurement, in linear feet, of the length of the
property line of-for a single tenant building #ceptor length of leased building frontage for
multi-tenant buildings or multi-building complexes.
JL. "Grade" means the relative existing ground level in the immediate vicinity
of the sign.
KM. "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 small sign that is generally informational and of
a noncommercial nature w4heut adYeFtisiRg intended primarily for the convenience of
the public and having a maximum area of two square feet. wed-aFelncidental signs
include, but are not limited to: signs designating restrooms, hours of operations,
entrances and exits to buildings and parking lots, help wanted, public telephones, etc.
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Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 5 of 33
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.
LP. "Mansard roof' means a sloped roof or roof -like facade architecturally able
to be treated as a building wall.
MQ. "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 +sla d2gnopy, will
also be considered a marquee. The term "marquee" also includes canopy.
NR. "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.
QS. "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.
RU. "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.
QV. "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 at, services rendered, goods sold or produced on the premises,
name of the person, firm or corporation occupying the premises.
RW. "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.
SX. "Parapet" means a false front or wall extension above the roof -line.
TY. "Perimeter' means a square or rectangle required to enclose the sign
area.
pending
VZ. "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.
WAA. "Premises" means the real estate as a unit, which is involved by the sign
or signs mentioned in this chapter.
s
upon. if !et, the sig -
r
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Ordinance.
------------------Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 6 of 33
based -u pE) n
Y. "PFO ecting sign" Fneanis a isign, etheF than a wall sign, whiGh IS-a##nf9
fare. -
Z -1313. "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 sixteen (16) inches
beyond the surface of said structure or wall but does not extend more than five (5) feet
beyond the property line, extends no more than six (6) 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 "proiecting sign."
CC. "Real estate sign" means a portable sign erected by the owner, or Wsthe
owner's agent, advertising the real estate upon which the sign is located for rent, lease
or sal _
AADD. "Revolving sign" means any sign wN&that rotates or turns in
motion by electrical or mechanical means in a circular patternee6 RGt 9XGebuildiRg e�
silhouette.
GLEE. "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 (5) feet in height above the roof.
BBFF."Sign" means any visual communication device, structure, or fixture which
is visible from any right-of-way intended to aid the business establishmen i on questiena
land use in promoting the sale or identification of a product, goods 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. 4 -The total area of a sign visible from any one viewpoint or direction,
excluding the sign support structure, architectural embellishments, or framework
w#iG4that contains no written copy, and includes only one side of a double-faced sign.
2. 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.
3. 3. Module signs consisting of more than one sign cabinet shall be
computed by adding together the total area of each module.
4. 4. Perimeter er--of sign area shall be established by the smallest
rectangle enclosing the extreme limits of the letter module or advertising message
being measured.
€-FHH."Sign height" means the vertical distance measured from the adjacent
grade to the highest point of the sign.
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Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 7 of 33
6611. "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.
„
,
s flan-w+adew
KK. d
"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 very short-term promotional periods.
LL. " axdeiciding-r not
attaGhed-and
plane of said wall OF "Suspended sign" means a sign that is attached to and
suspended from a marquee or canopy, and subiect to right-of-way and clearance
regulations.
MM. WORUmenVmedian sign"
elepmeet-ef
50 aGFes OF rnE)Fe. The sign shall ORIY have twe faGeS, be Ro higheF than six feet
IeRgeF than 19 feet. QRlY the name ef the develepment andIeF lege shall be allow
with Re pFedUGt adveFtising. Th enly allowed at iRteffieGtiRg streets with e
sigR plaGed iR the Fight of way of Tthe R-breet. that Is the 8RtFaRGe to the evelepFneFA
Only eiqe sign peF inteFsecAien is allowed and only thFee sIgns peF 3lopment aFe
sign with eithei; 6()d, annuals, gFGUndGE)veF, IOW gFE)WiRg shFubs, or a GGFnbinati
d6FeGtiGR from the sign. A Fight of way use pewnit is required that addFesses insuFanGe,
-engeneef.
"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.
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Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 8 of 33
00. "Wall sign" means a sign attached or erected parallel to and extending not
more than sixteen (16) inches from the facade or face of any building -to which it is
attached and supported through its entire length, with the exposed fads 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. (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 below. 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
(1) sign per street frontage not to exceed five (5) square feet in sign area per side,
placed entirely on the property for sale, and not to exceed a height of seven 7 feet.
B. Residential directional "open house" signs: such signs shall be limited to
one (1) sign per street frontage on the premises for sale and three (3) off -premises
signs. However, if a broker/agent has more than one (1) house open for inspection in a
single development or subdivision, he/she is limited to four (4) 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 (5) 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 (1) 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 thirty-two (32) square feet in sign area per side and eight (8)
feet in height.
D. Developed commercial and industrial property "for sale or rent" signs: One
(1) 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 ten 0 0) feet from the building line, the sign shall be placed on the buildinq
or in a window. The sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height, if freestanding, it shall
be located more than fifteen 0 5) feet from any abutting Property line and a public ri-ght-
of-way line. Said sign shall not exceed thirty-two (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 thirty-two (32) square feet in area per side, nor exceeding a height of eight
(8) feet. If the sign is -greater than five (5) square feet in area, it must be placed more
than thirty (30) feet from the abutting property line.
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Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 9 of 33
F. Additional signs: The Planninq, Building and Community Director may
grant a special permit to allow temporary off -premises signs in addition to those
permitted above, not to exceed five (5) square feet in size per side, or lforty-two (42)
inches in height. Notice of adjacent property owners shall not be required. Such
additional signs may be used to advertise open houses, to provide directions to new
developments, or similar purposes. Such signs may be placed along the-peripher�of
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. The Planning, Building and
Community Director shall determine the number and locations of such signs, and the
period during which they may be displayed. The Planning, Building and Community
Director shall take into account the number of existing signs in any proposed location,
and shall limit or prohibit new ones so as to prevent a traffic safety hazard or a
detrimental effect on neighboring property.
18.56.030Regulatmen by . General Provisions, all districts.
Ne sign of any type shall be peFFnitted to be GE)RStFUGted, eFeGtE)d, 9F plaG
as an exeFnpt;E)R in AGG 18.56.064D,
A. Remitted-s+gflr on R o R c LHRS,-1,and L lRI-zones, Community
Signs.
;
;
fetal-aFea;
ad-SA-sgeaFe
feet IR aFea and 10 feet on height;
fFentage-with
tG BXGBed 60 6quaFe feet per faGee and 10 feet in height;
►et toecseed
50 squaFe feet tetal fGF all wall 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.
B. PWFni dyne, 8R R ,u�,R-3, and-LHR3-zone�TemporarY Signs.
;
;
•. JAI
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 10 of 33
are feet--'crnc
Wt
d+ RermeReRt de elepment Si_ nnn�nrn�n_npr_eRtF square
feet in area aR d 12 feet in height; -
6.
P` '-'�`r
s
6 Greece Rding (nenrec idential u es nnly\•
vr-rca� �rTmrr��rrvrrrc,�rucTrrra r�rs�s c -rrr�
i
eiCvicecd-vv
6quare feet ger fane and 17 feet in height
r 6treet
Lr
frontage with a maxim ia GaIGUlated at ORe 6qLiaFe feet peF eaGh
�n;
frontage, 9tto eXGeed 75 squaFe feet -p a and 12feet OR heijl;f
7 Wall /ngnresidential uses nnlvl• '
RS'gR aFFea
50Square
feet total fOF all wall SigRS,
y be
allowed outside wall sigRage with R 6'gR aFea--Ga'GLI!ated at 9Re sqUaFe fee
peF "Real feet of lea6ed fFentage RE)t to eXGeed 50 squaFe feet of total U�-sigRS-peF
e WRer/ ager 6hall he reSPGR ihl rent of the
ea6 eased-s�as�T-k�e-eT�rr�R�aR��,�„�-�-r��por„s,n,e--fe�t�-plaseF,-,�rr�-o,-�ti
1. Special Event signage may be allowed subiect to the following
a. Use of such signage is limited to ten (10) days per display, not to exceed
ten (10) days in any ninety (90) day period;
b. The area of any single sign shall not exceed thirty (30) square feet
2. Banners may be allowed subiect to the following;
a. No more than two such signs may be used per site at any given time;
b. Use of such signs is limited to ninety (90) consecutive days and may not
exceed ninety (90) days in any 120 -day period;
C. The area of any single banner shall not exceed 120 square feet.
3. Signs which are placed upon or within a window and which are intended
to be viewed from the right of way shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the window
area;
4. Permits are not required, except that signs exceeding the allowable size
and time duration must receive a permit issued by the Planning Buiilding and
Community Director if special circumstances exist that warrant the additional Signage.
C. mitten 6i
n in R��R4 R(1 R MHP I HR11/IHP R LJR� anrd
�eFiTrrm�--oTgT,e-„TT � LHR4, T[�Tj 1'C'Tnl"fl j LT7TCfPTrZ7T�Tj- 7T- , ,Z7TTC7
I I -d I�g�S
�.
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 11 of 33
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 11 of 33
•i
.. -
'Mill,
ROM
Rim
-- eaGh !eased spaGe. The owneF� manager shall be •� .. ..
--• c
8. ARY SigR may beEvents.- banners
approved and installed in accordance with rules and Procedures established—bv-lbg Cltx/
D. PeFmitted sipsin RG
9 MFUTAM
i
• •F, IFATA
..
LA
01,11
. .... �-
•
.. ..
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 12 of 33
,;paGe rRay be
@-&safe--#AAt
PeF 14Real feet of lea6ed frontage net to eneed 126 squaFe feet of total Afar -Sig R S -Pef
gement of the
10. Marquee.- Eme double faGe under Fn not eXGe
"� ""`
fe
eight feet Of GleaFaRGe betweeR the grade and_the s;gp,•
r
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 twenty-five (25)
watts,
b. Any exposed incandescent lamp 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 for changing
message center signs;
2. The provisions of section D.1, above, 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. Permi#ed-s+gR6 lR G 1, LHG, r 2, „d -BP z ^e :
;
2. PGI*tlGal; see AGG ;
3. ;
4. a; feet ifs
total-afe
5. Te idew. see AGG 18.56.040 ;
6. Y, e)deFnal to a building., see AGG , this-pfev+s+ef}
dee6 not allow peRRants-,
8. FFBestand;Rg;
aiffr�-sigf}
-exceed-59
. -peF str8et
eet-peFeaGh
loneal feet E)f fFentage not. 17-5 squaFe feet peF faGe and 35 feet in height;
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 13 of 33
9. Walk.
a. S*ngle tenant bueld;Rg: F:nGFe than one allowed with a m uFn sign aFea
8
b. Muffitenant building and FnultibuildiRg GOFnp'eX; --^' leased spaGe may -be
allowed euts4de wall signage with GaiGulated at ened- -7 faf
quam feet peF Meal feet of leased fFentage Ao6o exr-eed 160 squaF8 fe A of total wa-4
,_
dewed i- lieu
at
TZe7'fe Rd
e
fe
ez
illuminated;
14—tL4eRumenUmed sign6-,Construction Provisions, Sight Distance,
Exposed Angle Iron and Wire.
1. Each sign shall be adequately constructed in accordance with the
requirement of the International Building Codes as amended;
2. Signs containing electrical circuitry shall meet the reguirernents 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 ACC 18.48.020(8)
4. When a proiectinq sign is used no an 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. Permitted signs ^-C 3 nn Inn 2, F -zones-.
�orr-rar-ca
9.56.040(G;
3. ;
tetal-afea=-a re -flet +n
,
7. PeFtabl-m see AGC' *1 ;
8. F=Feestanding:
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 14 of 33
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 15 of 33
The holder of a permit, for the duration thereof, shall have the right i:o change the
advertising copy on the structure or sign for which the permit was issued without being
required to pay any additional fees.
G. Exemptions
Unless otherwise specified or unless expressly prohibited it is not the intent of
this Chapter to regulate the following signs.
a. The flap of a government or noncommercial institutions such as schools,
with the poles treated as structures;
b. Official public notices, official court notices;
C. Incidental signs (see ACC 18.56.020(0), Definitions);
d. Signs not visible from public right-of-way;
e. Lettering or symbols painted directly onto or flush -mounted magnetically
onto an operable vehicle.
f. Painting, repainting, cleaning, repairing, and other normal maintenance
unless structural or electrical changes are made;
g. Religious symbols not attached to a permitted sign;
h. Memorial signs or tablets, names of building, dates of erection and the
like, which are incorporated into the building material and facade;
L Signs required by law, traffic or pedestrian control signs sigins 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,
i. Sculptures, fountains, mosaics, and design features which do not
incorporate advertising or identification.
k. Temporary signs limited exclusively to non-commercial speech.
H. Prohibited signs.
From and after the effective date of 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 1'Real Estate
Signs) and ACC 18.56.040(E) (C2 District
3. Banners, pennants, ribbons, streamers spinners rotating or blinking
lights, strings of lights, or similar devices except as permitted by ACC 18.56.030(B)
(Temporary Signs);
4. Flashing signs, except as permitted in ACC 18 56 030(D) (Lighting
Provisions);
5. 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;
6. Private signs placed in or on a public right-of-way' except for as expressly
permitted by this chapter,
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 16 of 33
7. 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 si n shall
be erected so that it obstructs the vision of pedestrians by glare or method of
illumination 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 traffici
8. Any sign or advertising structure or supporting structure that is torn,
damaged, defaced or destroyed;
9. Siqns attached to poles installed by governmental agencies, utility Poles,
trees, rocks or other natural features;
10. Signs attached to benches, -garbage cans, or other street furniture located
within the public right -of way.
11. Rotating signs.
12. Billboards.
13. Any sign which does not structurally or materially conform to the
requirements of the City's adopted International Building Code.
I. Nonconforming signs.
Permanent signs established legally prior to the adoption of 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 twenty-five (2Q
percent or more (including the cumulative increase of previous expansions after the
effective date of the ordinance amending this section).
3. Whenever a non -conforming use is replaced by a conforming use, the
requirements of this section shall apply in full to the 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
Ion-ger 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 ninety (90)
days after written notification from the building official
J. 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
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 17 of 33
plans shall be recorded. (Ord. 5342 § 2, 2000; Ord. 4705 § 2, 1994; Ord. 4229 § 2,
1987.)
18.56.040 Spesiat-s+ Regulation by District
A.
ama Gf. 631-IGh sign shall net eXGeed 24 square feet per faGe 9F 12 feet ORaheight. -S u
sign shall Rat be plaGed so as to Gause a tFaffiG hazard, and shall be a ipreyed as te,
plaGerneRt by the Gity R -R, R -S, LHRS, R-1, LHR -1, R-2, LHR -2, R-3, LHR -3,
R-4, LHR -4, R -MHP, LHRMHP Zoning districts (non-residential uses, except as noted)
1. Residential entry monument: A cumulative area of fifty (50) siguare feet or
ten (10) feet in height (highest point of sign structure) not to exceed two (2) per
entrance provide that no sign exceeds thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
2. Maximum sign area of all signs is forty (40) square feet per fn:)ntage.
3. Freestanding signs
a. Total number permitted: One (1) per frontage not to exceed two (2) total
freestanding signs per property.
b. Maximum height: Ten 00 feet.
C. Maximum area: Thirty-two (32) square feet per face, calculated at a rate
of one (1) square foot of sign area for every three (3) lineal feet of frontage. The
minimum entitlement for freestanding signs shall be one (1) sixteen (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 (1) per frontage not to exceed two (2) total
wall signs per building
b. Maximum area: Thirty-two (32) square feet, calculated at a rate of one (1)
square foot of sign area for every three (3) lineal feet of frontage. The minimum
entitlement for wall signs shall be one (1) sixteen (16) square foot sign for those sites
with frontages less than 48 feet.
5. Signs may be indirectly illuminated only.
B. Pelitical Signs.
-- ". 3,
.highways, or rights of way within the r.GFPGFate limits of the Gity. Signs pla ed-en-pri�+a#e
property require permission of property owner.
2. PGlitiGal sigRs shall be removed within 14 days after the sties -except
.,,al signs tit+{
14 days after the general
3. R0'itiGal signs less thaR 16 squaFe feet shall net be reqi Irl to have a
pefr''rrF or para fee. other F atien� anal» evnnr�+ a n„+lined in „h;eGt4E)RjRlla
of this seGtiGR-.
4. P0litiGal SigRs, 16 -square feet or larger shall be limited to-9fl$- 'sal pLf
Gandadate or issue, on a private let and shall be regulated as fGIIGWES� FIG person,
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 18 of 33
i-aRy Ya6&fFt
Mess a-peF
a. Number ef 6*gw,
b. ;
G. Written pwmissioR fFeFn property ;
d. Size of Sips
a
hQ-pFeVirsI9fls
)tR-O, RO-H,
C -N, C-1, LHC -1, B -P Zoning districts (non-residential uses)
1. Maximum sign area of all signs is 150 square feet per frontage.
2. Freestanding signs:
a. Total number permitted: One (1) per frontage not to exceed two (2) total.
b. Maximum height: Twenty-two (22) feet, ten (10) feet in the RO zone.
C. Maximum area: 100 square feet per face, 75 square feet PE?r face in the
RO zone, calculated at a rate of one (1) square foot of sign area for every two (2) lineal
feet of frontage. Minimum entitlement for freestanding signs shall be one (1) sign at
thirty two (32) square feet for those sites with less than sixty-four (64) feet of frontage.
d. If permitted, the 2nd freestanding sign shall not exceed fifty'(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 (1) per frontage.
b. Maximum area: 100 square feet, calculated at a rate of one (1) square
foot of sign area for every 1.5 lineal feet of frontage. For multi -tenant buildings where
free-standing signage contains the name of not more than one (1) tenant business
(e.g., a prime tenant name or a shopping center name), an additional twenty-five (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 (1) sign at
sixteen (16) square feet.
C. Signs may be directly or indirectly illuminated.
4. Suspended signs:
a. Total number permitted: One (1) per entrance.
b. Maximum area: Six (6) square feet per face.
C. Minimum clearance is eight (8) feet from sign to -grade.
5. Projecting signs:
a. (Not permitted in, C -N, R -O or RO-H.)
b. Total number permitted: One (1) in lieu of a permitted freestanding sign.
C. Maximum height: Height requirement of the zoning district.
d. Maximum area: Fifty (50) percent of the area allowed for single
freestanding sign.
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 19 of 33
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 20 of 33
R-fleiQhb6Fi n
prep .AAP -1, LHP -1, "I", LHI zones
1. Freestanding signs
a. Total number permitted: One (1) per frontage not to exceed two (2) total.
b. Maximum height: Eighteen (18) feet.
C. Maximum area: Eighty (80) square feet per face, calculated at a rate of
one (1) square foot of sign area for every two (2) lineal feet of frontage. 'the minimum
entitlement for freestanding signs is one (1) sign at thirty two (32) square feet.
d. If permitted, the 2nd freestanding siqn shall not exceed fifty (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 (2) signs per frontage subject to the following:
L Only one (1) changing message center is provided.
ii. Multiple signs are separated by at least 150 feet.
iii. The combined area of the two (2) signs does not exceed 120 square feet
in size and neither sign is greater than eighty (80) square feet in size.
2. Wall signs for building or tenant space):
a. Total number permitted: Two (2) per street frontage.
b. Maximum area: Fifty (50) square feet for total of all wall signs per
frontage.
C. Signs may be directly or indirectly illuminated
D.
with
Fe faces;
reyisiees—wi4
have eRe yeaF, fFGFn the adoption date of , teGemply with these.3ray+sie+}s;
L -F, 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 (2) per frontage not to exceed four (4) total.
b. Maximum height: Thirty (30) feet.
C. Maximum area: 125 square feet per face calculated at a rate of one (1)
square foot of sign area for every o (2) lineal feet of frontage Minimum entitlement
for freestanding signs is thirty two (32) square feet for those sites without sixty four (64)
feet of frontage.
d. The total area of freestanding signs on any given frontage shall not
exceed the area allowed for a single freestandinq sign
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 21 of 33
e. The maximum height of signs located on a second or third frontage shall
be twenty (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 (1) per frontage.
b. Maximum area: 100 square feet, calculated at a rate of one (1) square
foot of sign area for every 1.5 lineal feet of frontage.
4. Projecting signs:
a. Total number permitted: One (1) in lieu of a permitted freestanding sign.
b. Maximum height: Height requirement of the zoning district.
C. Maximum area: Fifty (50) percent of the area allowed for single
freestanding sign.
E. Temp signs.
1 Tens, banners,
posters, flags, pennantsj and 3a"1fT1�nn71InTSQlAlhiGh
afe-fReef}}d- A -- Ann
8tFF1EP the)f a new business, Gelebr'3te bu inems
by be allowa. No more than four suGh signs may be allowed PeF 8�
G }, ,,, yM } -•+r and them
must be 60 days between the pla$e�r eRt of signs -,
days,
G. The total sign aFea shall not eXGeed 30 square e
ri PermitsXGen} a6 of �+liner! in s b en}inn /D 1/11/el of thio
Gt,.�cr—T+a"�0.1'iffs. d—eicvv-pr�av^y crcrrrr�m—.�vv-�c v crvTrtL
r,e
8. Signs WhiGh eXGeed the allowable size and time duFation ust-Fesefve--a
PeRnit issued by the hearing examineF of speGial G4FGLIFnstaRGes exist that -a1-Ft-tY'fc
additional
�� ♦�E�awed c i shier•}
to the following-.
a. The total sigR aFea shall net eXGeed 50 p9FGent of the Fdew-aFeafour times rpleF yeaF and theFe must be a minimum ef 60 days between the -fR
be a time "m4tation of 15 days f9F SUGh sips. These s4gRS shall GGGUF RG FneFe thai4
plaGeFReRt Of
seGtiGR ,
d. SigRS whiGh eXGeed the allowable size and time duration ist-reGeWe a
additional
's tiPQRS$%ed
iwithin the -200
Requests to
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 22 of 33
hall have t
;hall be ma
)Rnit- shall -tae
cements, and
C-2 Zonina District
1. Maximum sign area of all signs is 200 square feet
2. Hanging signs that are designed to display the availability of a specific
product in a business, limited to three (3) square feet and no more than two (2) 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 (1)per frontage not to exceed bNo (2) total.
C. Maximum height: Twenty (20) feet
d. Maximum area: Seventy-five (75) square feet per face calculated at a
rate of one (1) square foot of sign area for each lineal foot of frontage. Minimum
entitlement for freestanding signs shall be one (1) sign at 32 square feet
4. Wall signs:
a. Total number permitted: One (1) per frontage.
b. Maximum area: 150 square feet, calculated at a rate of one (1) square
foot of sign area for every one (1) lineal foot of frontage. For multi -tenant buildings
where freestandinq signage contains the name of not more than one (1) tenant
business (e.g., a prime tenant name or a shopping center name) an additional twenty-
five (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 (1)
sign at sixteen (16) square feet.
5. Suspended Sign: One (1) double -face Suspended sign not exceeding
three (3) square feet per face may be allowed for each business entrance. There shall
be a minimum of eight (8) feet of clearance between the grade and the sign_
6. Portable Signs. One (1) portable sign may be allowed for each business
entrance, not to exceed one (1) 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, Building and Community 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 thirty-six (36) inches in height and this (3-0) 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
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 23 of 33
f. Shall meet applicable supplemental design requirements of the Auburn
Downtown Association.
7. Supplemental Sign Standards, C2 Zone
a. Sian design and construction
L All signs, other than temporary signs shall be made of professional,
durable materials such as wood metal and/or glass
H. 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
L Signs shall be oriented toward pedestrian visibility and shall be positioned
at such a height as to be readable by pedestrians
ii. Externallv 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 (2) per frontage not to exceed four (4) total.
b. Maximum height: Thirty (30) feet.
C. Maximum area: 200 square feet calculated at a rate of one (1) square
foot of sign area for every two (2) lineal feet of frontage PROVIDED That the maximum
size of anv sign does not exceed 125 square foot per face The minimurn entitlement
for freestanding signs is thirty-two (32) square feet for those sites without sixty-four (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 twenty (20) feet.
2. Wall signs for building or tenant space):
Maximum area: 125 sguare feet calculated at a rate of one (1) square foot of
sign area for every 1.5 lineal feet of frontage
3. Proiecting signs:
a. Total number permitted: One (1) in lieu of a permitted freestanding sign.
b. Maximum height: Height requirement of the zoning district
C. Maximum area: Fifty (50) percent of the area allowed for single
freestanding sign.
4. Suspended signs:
a. Total number permitted: One (1)
b. Maximum placement height: Twenty-five (25) feet
C. Maximum area: Six (6) square feet per face
d. Minimum clearance is eight (8) feet from sign to grade
5. Off -premises signs:
a. Total number permitted- One (1) per business and one per parcel.
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Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 24 of 33
b. Location: off -premises sign must be located in zone than permits off -
premises signs.
C. Maximum height: Twenty (20) feet.
d. Maximum area: Fifty (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
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 (2) faces.
h. Signs may be directly or indirectly illuminated. (Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
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Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 25 of 33
. is used; provided, that all otheF GeGtiGRE; of this GhapteF aFe GGmplied with.
feet, ftem the publiG Fight of way, the footage of wall signs may be6F�f--At�£i�A
8. FGF developments that have sub6tantial building setbaGksT at least I GO
-iesFeaeed-by
' glut: -of -way. The
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 supportinq
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 ap Aication 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
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
L Electrical load with name of electrical contractor responsible for
installation of service feed wires if other than sign contractor.
i. 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 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 Auburn City Code Title 14 "Project Review"
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 26 of 33
B. PmjeGtien, GleaFaRGe and Sight Di6taRG9.
.
ypr-epeFty line
a - Sip -Code.
3. All pFqjeGtiRg i the publmG Fight of way must be -a Fn'RIMUFiq Of
Err
eight feet above the sidAlAgpik �wnept wheR IGGated *R aR alley oF OR an aF9 w#eFe-metef
3- the -Fee€.
. Interpretation. In all applications for permits
where a matter of interpretation arises, the most restrictive definition shall prevail.
angle 3 OF bFaGeS shall be visible, eXGGPt thG6e that aFe an 0 4994 paFt of
safety.
D Lighting PFevic ions
fltmal ZORe-a$
i nafy-e)deFiGf
Faff
iG Who
rttT
thmFd of ��,µ}}�,�,,ff neFe than 26
wa#r, i
2. The l6shall not apply to:
1 oF highway OF stFeet illmFmination,
b. A iFGFaft waFRinn lights,
ub';GseFV*Ge
;t of the Uniform BuildiRg and Sign 1 as amended,
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 27 of 33
GtlGker.
fGF Whl6h-fie
fees. (Ord. 4705 § 2,
1994; Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
18.56.060 Exempti„Deviations, variances and appeals.
A. Painting, , ,
d
OR pFivate,
ltiep--and--�the
_IRG iRdig
i6
with the poles tFeated as stFuGtures,
;
I. IRGideRtal signs.,
m ag n et+6all-y
eRte an operable yehi-le-.
A. The Planning, Building and Community Director may grant up to a 50%
deviation to the provisions of this sign code related to sign height and sign area. In a
petition for a deviation, the Planning, Building and Community Director shall have the
power and duty to review, decide,r��grant with conditions or deny the requested
deviation. The Building and Community Director may grant a deviation from the
provisions of this chapter only when the deviation is within 50% 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
2. The granting of the requested deviation would not be materially detrimental to
the public welfare or incurious 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
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 28 of 33
B. An applicant requesting an administrative deviation under the provisions
of this chapter shall submit the following along with the required filing fee
C. A letter in memorandum format outlining how the request is consistent
with the criteria of this subsection.
D. A site plan that accurately drawn to an engineered scale of one (1) inch
equals forty (40) feet, one (1) inch equals twenty (20) feet one (1) inch equals ten (10)
feet that includes the following information:
1. Boundaries and dimensions of the site.
2. Location of buildings, parking areas and adjacent streets
3. Graphic representations of all existing signs including their size, height and
placement on the site.
4. Graphic representation of the proposed sign(s) subject to the request,
5. Building elevation showing the placement of the sign on that: elevation, if
applicable.
E. The action of the Planning, Building and Community Director resecting,
approving or modifying any decision or application is a final administrative decision
subiect 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 of this
Title.
F. The Planning, Building and Community Director shall render a written
decision on the requested deviation request within seven (7) business days of submittal
of all required elements and filing fee.
G. Requests that exceed the 50% 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 of this Title.
H. The Planning, Building and Community Director may allow for the repair or
replacement of non -conforming signs that have a significant historical or cultural
element or are integral components of a building roof or fagade that has a significant
historical or cultural element to which the sign is a contributing component _(Ord. 4229 §
2, 1987. )
. . •
MIN
=MMIMMIT
_
_-
-
_ . ..
F.W.M.FIRNME1.
ft,
Orl
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 29 of 33
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 30 of 33
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-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 30 of 33
--------------- - - - -
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 31 of 33
Washingtond.
height,
G9py, StFUGtUFal
and feeting
details,
and-
'
9.
desGFipt2Gn
Of
weFk-
- FFned
and type
of 6ign-
2.
ReVGGatien
of
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building
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--------------- - - - -
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 31 of 33
18.56.44-0070 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
by the city or any of its agents. (Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
18.56.4-28080 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. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
Section 2. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this ordinance are declared to be
separate and severable. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion
of this Ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any Court of
competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and
independent provision, and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining
portions thereof.
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.
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 32 of 33
7=7.
18.56.44-0070 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
by the city or any of its agents. (Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
18.56.4-28080 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. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
Section 2. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this ordinance are declared to be
separate and severable. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion
of this Ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any Court of
competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and
independent provision, and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining
portions thereof.
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.
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 32 of 33
Section 4. 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.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
APPROVED:
ATTEST:
Danielle E. Daskam,
City Clerk
APP W -VEDAS TO FORM:
O'aniel B. H6
City Attorney
-------------------
Ordinance. No. 5993
January 30, 2006
Page 33 of 33
PETER B. LEWIS
MAYOR