HomeMy WebLinkAboutReg 2005-06-20 Item 5 - Public Hearing - TMC Title 19 Certain Types of Signage COUNCIL AGENDA S1'NoPsIs
,r s 'S�'S Lrrtials ITEM No.
.,101t! 1W, A•Ieeting Date 1 Pupated by 1 Mayor's remery 1 Council remew
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1908 ITEM INFORMATION
CAS NUMBER: REF. #04-144 05-080 I ORIGINAL AGENDA DATE. NOVEMBER 22, 2004) April 11, 200E
AGENDA ITEM TITLE Proposed changes to TMC Title 19, regarding certain types of signage within the City.
CATEGORY Discussion Motion Resolution Ordinance Bid Award Public Hearing Other
Mtg Date
Mtg Date Mtg Date Mtg Date Mtg Date Mtg Date 6 -20 -05 Mtg Date
SPONSOR Council Mayor Human Services
Adm Svcs DCD Finance 111 Fire Legal P&R Police PIV
SPONSOR'S The proposed changes to TMC Title 19 would permit scoreboards at facilities in the LDR zone
SUMMARY with a public recreation overlay and allow some scoreboards to have a video display.
REVIEWED BY COW Mtg. 4/ 11/05, CA &P Cmte F &S Cmte Transportation Cmte
5/23/05 4/26/05,5/10/05
Utilities Cmte Arts Comm. Parks Comm. Planning Comm. 4/11/05
DATE: 5 -16 -05
RECOMMENDATIONS:
SPONSOR /ADMIN. Forward item to next regular meeting for public hearing.
CO M1IITEE Same as sponsor.
'COST IMPACT FUND SOURCE'
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED AMOUNT BUDGETED APPROPRIATION REQUIRED
$N /A $N /A $N /A
Fund Source:
Comments.
1 MTG. DATE 1 RECORD OF COUNCIL ACTION
May 16, 2005 COW considered the items and sent them back to CAP for more information
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MTd. DATE k t Prat' i s t c C'� `"'ATTACHMENTS L Jt
6 -20 -05 Memorandum from S. Lancaster dated June 14, 2005
Excerpted minutes COW Meeting May 23, 2005
Draft Ordinance
City of Tukwila
Steven M. Mullet, Mayor
Department of Community Development
Steve Lancaster, Director
MEMO
RE:
City Council
. ~
Steve Lancaster, Director DCD ~
Sign Code Amendments
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
June 14, 2005
Background
At the May 16,2005 COW meeting, the Council considered vanous changes to the City's
Sign Code.
The proposed changes will allow certain types of SIgnS III the LDR zones, c1anfy which
signs are regulated under the sign code, and expand temporary sIgnage for museums.
Additionally, staff has used this opportunity to do some minor house keeping to the sign
code by deleting all references to the Unifonn Building Code.
Attached you will fmd a draft copy of the proposed ordmance that will make the changes
that the council has considered.
Tonight's meeting also includes a public heanng. Notification was provided in the Seattle
Times and interested parties were also notIfied.
Next Step
Forward the proposed changes to the next regular meeting for adoptIon.
Altemative( s)
Send the proposed changes back to the COW for more review and research.
6300 Southcenter Boulevard, Suite #100 · Tukwila, Washington 98188 · Phone: 206-431-3670 · Fax: 206-431-3665
EXCERPTED MINUTES
TUKWILA cm COUNCIL
May 23[ 2005
COMMITTEE OF WHOLE MEETING
SPECIAL ISSUES
c Proposed chanqes to TMC Title 19 - Siqnaqe
Councilmember Duffie noted review and recommendation of the proposed amendments at the April 26
Community Affairs and Parks Committee meeting.
Brandon Miles, Assistant Planner, Department of Community Development, noted Council was briefed on
these issues in March at a Committee of Whole meeting Originally presented as six proposed
amendments, Council bifurcated them and two were remanded back to the Community Affairs and Parks
Committee for additional r.eview Since being remanded, staff has re-worked the issues and created the
proposed changes presented in writing for this meeting
Mr Miles noted proposed grammar changes and edits for the items and answered Council inquiries
relative to the scoreboards being permitted at sports fields located in the LOR zone with a public
recreation overlay and video displays (on scoreboards) being permitted at sports stadiums with a seating
capacity of greater than 2,000 people
As the original four items (presented in March) have not yet come back to Council for adoption, Mr Miles
noted all six will be encapsulated into one ordinance and returned to Council for public hearing (at an
unspecified June, 2005 date)
On an unrelated issue, Councilmember Duffie raised the legality and use of (human) A-board signs and
large, tall signs in the City's business district. He finds them disturbing and potentially dangerous to
passersby
Both Steve Lancaster, Director of Community Development and Mr Miles reported recent legal
challenges opposing allowance of "human signs" have been lost by the City of Redmond and Kitsap
County Citing "first amendment" rights, the use of such signs are typically permitted Both agreed legal
decisions are against cities in regulating such signs.
In another unrelated issue, it was suggested that Code Enforcement Officers be allowed to retrieve
illegally posted signs and requiring businesses to pay for their return Council agreed that paying to
retrieve signs "sounds like a good idea." Finally, Mr Lancaster noted the use of illegal signs often occurs
on the weekends when Code Enforcement personnel do not work. If staff numbers are increased in that
division, he would anticipate/expect them to rotate and work proactive patrol of various (not all)
weekends.
FOR ACTION/CONSIDERATION, CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS TO THE NEXT
REGULAR MEETING.
I, Robert H Baker, Deputy City Clerk, for the City of Tukwila, hereby certify the above to be a true
and correct excerpt of the City Council Committee of Whole meeting minutes from Monday, May 23,
2005
DATED this
il?
daYOf~' 2005
KoLtVt0:.I H 0(1 lQ/l
Robert H Baker, CMC
Deputy City Clerk
CITY OF TUKWILA
Office of the City Clerk
6200 Southcenter Boulevard
Tukwila, WA 98188
(206) 433-1800
DRAFT
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, AMENDING VARIOUS TUKWILA
MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS RELATING TO SIGN CODE AND
ANIMATED SIGNS; AMENDING PARTS OF ORDINANCE NO.
####, AS CODIFIED IN TMC SECTION ####; AMENDING PARTS
OF ORDINANCE NO. #### AND #### AS CODIFIED IN TMC
SECTION ####; AMENDING PARTS OF ORDINANCE #### AND
#### CODIFIED IN TMC SECTION ####; ADDING NEW
SECTIONS RELATED TO DEFINITION OF COMMERCIAL ZONES,
INDUSTRIAL ZONES, RESIDENTIAL ZONES, AND MUSEUMS OF
THE "TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 19; PROVIDING
FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City of Tukwila realizes that certain uses in the City have special signage
needs that are not addressed in the City's existing sign code;
WHEREAS, the City of Tukwila wants to provide clarification regarding which types of
signs are regulated under the City's sign code;
WHEREAS, the City of Tukwila desires to increase safety and minimize driver distractions,
and
WHEREAS, the City of Tubvila wishes to regulate certain types of signage in the LDR
zones, Public Recreation Overlay Zones, and at Museums, to enhance the visual environment of
the city;
WHEREAS, on November 18, 2004 the Tukwila Planning Commission, following adequate
public notice, held a public hearing to receive testimony concerning amending the sign code and
on November 18, 2004 adopted a motion recommending the proposed changes;
WHEREAS, on June 20, 2005, the Tukwila City Council, following adequate public notice,
held a public hearing to receive a testimony concerning the recommendations of the Planning
Commission,
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Chapter 19.08
DEFINITIONS
Sections:
19.08.01OGeneraIly
19 08.020Access Road
19.08.030Animated Sign
19.08.040Area and Background Area
19.08.50 Billboard
19.08.051 Commercial Zones
19.08.055 Electronic Sign
19.08.060Exposed Building Face
19.08.070Freestanding Sign
19.08.080Freeway Interchange Business Sign
1908.090Glare
19.08.100 Height
19 08.105 Holographic Display
19.08.1 10 Hotel
19.08.115Industrial Zones
1
19 08. I 20Intemal Information Sign
19.08.125 Museums
19 08.1300ff-Premises Sign
I 9.08. I 400n-Premises Sign
19 08. 150Pennanent Sign
19 08.160Planned Shopping Center (Mall)
19 08.170Portable Sign
19 08. I 72 Premises
1908 175Public Facility
19 08.180Real Estate Sign
19 08.190Real Estate Directional Sign
19.08.192 Residential Zones
19.08.195 Scoreboard
19 08.200Shared Directional Sign
1908.210Sign
19 08.2lSSpecial Permission Sign
19.08.217 Sports Field
19.08.218 Sports Stadium
19 08.220Temporary Sign
19 08.230Traffic Markings
19 08.240Traffic Sign .
19.08.2SQUHiform B1:IildiHg Code
19 08.260Unique Sign
1908.010 Generally
Special words used in this code shall be defined as set out in this chapter
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
1908.020 Access Road
"Access road" means a driveway, as defined in TIvfC 18.06.015
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
19 08.030 Animated Sign
"Animated sign" means any sign or portion of which physically moves, appears to flash, undulate, pulse, or portray
explosions, fireworks, flashes of light, or blinking or chasing lights, or which appears to move toward or away from
the viewer, to expand or contract, bounce, rotate, spin, twist, scroll, travel or otherwise portrays movement or
animation at a frequency more rapid than once every 24 hours. Signs or portions of signs displaying a changing
message content that is strictly limited to time, date or temperature shall not be construed to be animated.
Scoreboards shall not be considered animated signs.
(Ord. 2019 gl, 2003, Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
19.08.040 Area and Background Area
"Area" and "background area" means the entire face of a sign or panel upon which copy or insignia may be
placed. Where separate letters or shapes are used, the sign area shall be that encompassed by drawing lines at the
extremities of the shapes to be used.
(Ord. 1274 g I (part), 1982)
1908.050 Billboard
"Billboard" means a sign or visual communication device, its structure and component parts, whose principal use is
the advertising or promotion of a service or product normally available in the general market area but not for sale or
rent on the immediate premises.
(Ord. 1274 g 1 (part), 1982)
19.08.052 Commercial Zones
"Commercial Zones" means anv area of the City zoned O. MUO. RCC. NCC. RC. RCM. TUC. CIL!. and TVS
19.08.055 Electronic Sign
"Electronic Sign" means a sign containing a display that can be changed, by electrical, electronic or computerized
process.
(Ord. 2019 g2, 2003)
19.08.060 Exposed Building Face
"Exposed buildingface" means that portion of the building exterior wall or tenant space wall area of the building,
together with one-half the vertical distance between eaves and ridge of a pitched roof above it, used for sign area
calculation purposes as provided below'
1 That portIOn of the building wall fronting on the principal public street from which the building has
access; or
2. That portion of the building wall which fronts on an access road; or
3 That portion of the building wall wherein the principal public entrance to an individual tenant space
within a multi-tenant building is located.
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
2
19 D8.070 Freestanding Sign
"Freestanding sign" means a sign installed on a penn anent foundation, not attached to a building or other structure.
. (Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
19 08.080 Freeway Interchange Business
"Freeway illlerchange business" means a business located within the areas designated on Exhibit A of this
ordinance, situated within a radius of 1,000 feet from the freeway entry/exit point or industrial zone but not
separated by a physical barrier from the entry/exit inter-section. The freeway interchange sign is primarily oriented
to the passing motorist on the adjacent freeway, and shall identifY businesses such as regional shopping malls,
eating, lodgmg or service station facilities that serve the traveling public. No wall-mounted sign can be classified as
a "freeway interchange business" sign.
(Ord. 1892 ~1, 1999; Ord. 1274 ~1(part), 1982)
1908.090 Glare
"Glare" means the creation of an intense relative brightness exceeding 250 foot-lamberts which causes difficulty in
the observation of the general area around the sign.
(Ord. 1274 91(part), 1982)
19 08.100 Height
"Height" means the distance measured from.
1 The lowest point of elevation of the ground between the top of the sign and a point five feet distant
from said sign, or .
2. The lowest point of elevation of the finished surface of the ground between the top of the sign and the
property boundary, if it is less than five feet distant from said sign.
(Ord. 1274 91(part), 1982)
19.08.105 Holographic Display
"Holographic display" means any display that creates a three-dimensional image through projection.
(Ord. 2019 ~3, 2003)
1908.110 Hotel
"Hotel" means a building or portion thereof designed or used as a transient rental facility as defined in TMC
18.06.440.
(Ord. 1274 91(part) 1982)
19.08.115 Industrial Zones
"Industrial Zones" means any area of the City zoned LI. HI. MICIL. and ivlIC/H.
1908.120 IntemalInfonnation Sign
"Internal information sign" means a sign which gives directional infonnation or identifies specific use areas and
which is necessary to maintain the orderly internal use of the premises, such as those signs which identifY employee
parking, shipping, clearance or which restrict ingress and egress. Not included in this definition are signs which are
not directly related to an identified need for orderly internal use of the property and off-premises or portable signs.
(Ord. 1274 ~ 1 (part), 1982)
19.08.125 Museums
"Museums" means a non-profit institution where works of artistic historical. and/or scientific value are cared for.
kept and displaved.
19.08.130 Off-Premises Sign
"Off-premises sign" means any sign which is not on the same premises as the business with which it is identified,
or which cannot be classified as an on-premises sign under TMC 19.08.140.
(Ord. 185792,1998, Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
19 08.140 On-Premises Sign
"On-premises sign" means a sign which displays advertising copy specifically related to a primary use of the
premises on which it is located, including signs or sign devices indicating the business transacted at, services
rendered, goods sold or produced on the immediate premises, name of the business, person, finn or corporation
occupying the premises, including signs with adjustable copy known as readerboards. Said sign must be on the
same premises as the business with which it is identified.
(Ord. 1857 ~3, 1998, Ord. 1274 9 I (part), 1982)
19.08.150 Pennanent Sign
"Permanent sign" means any sign which is erected without a restriction on the time period allowed for its display
as specified in this code.
(Ord. 1274 91(part), 1982)
19 08.160 Planned Shopping Center (Mall)
"Planned shopping center (mall)" means a multiple-tenant retail development as defined in TMC 18.06.750
(Shopping center, planned).
(Ord. 1274 91 (part), 1982)
3
19.08.170 Portable Sign
"Portable sign" means a sign which is not pennanently affixed to a structure and is designed for or capable of
movement, except those signs explicitly designed for people to cany on their persons or permanently affixed to
motor vehicles operating in their normal course of business.
(Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
19.08.172 Premises
"Premises" means one or more contiguous Jots of record (exclusive of any right-of-way), owned or managed by the
same individual or entity
(Ord. 1857 ~ I, 1998)
19 08 175 Public Facility
"Public facility" means any facility funded with public funds which provides a service to the general public,
including but not limited to a public school, public library, community center, public park, government facility or
similar use.
(Ord. 1617 p, 1991)
1908.180 Real Estate Sign
"Real estate sign" means a sign displayed for a limited time and offering the immediate premises for sale, rent or
lease.
(Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
19.08.190 Real Estate Directional Sign
"Real estate directional sign" means an off-premises sign displayed for a limited time and offering a particular
property for sale, rent or lease.
(Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
19.08.192 Residential Zones
"Residential Zones" means anv area of the City zoned LDR. MDR. or HDR.
19.08.195 Scoreboards
"Scoreboards" means a visual communication device used to display the time. score. period. Quarters. innings.
downs. yards to go. or any other infonnation directly relevant to a sporting event, to individuals attending the
sporting event.
19.08.200 Shared Directional Sign
"Shared directional sign" means a directional sign erected and maintained by several adjacent businesses as a
single sign.
(Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
1908.210 Sign
"Sign" means any medium, including paint of walls, merchandise, or visual communication device, its structure
and component parts, which is used or intended to be used to attract attention to the subject matter for advertising or
identification purposes. Bulletin boards and readerboards are considered signs.
(Ord. 1274 ~1(part), 1982)
19.08.215 Special Pennission Sign
"Special Permission Sign" shall mean a sign requiring a Type 2 decision as set forth in TMC 19.22.010, 19.22.020,
19.32.020,19.32.080,19.32.100,19.32.120, 19.32.130, 19.32.140, 19.32.150 or 19.32.180
(Ord. 1770 ~67, 1996)
19.08.217 Sports Field
"Soorts Field" means an outdoor area solelv dedicated to function as a place for competitive sporting events such as
but not limited to football. soccer. basebalL and softbalL
19.08.218 Sports Stadium
"Sports Stadium" means a pennanent structure or complex that either partially or completely encloses a sports field
and provides fixed seating. pennanent restroom facilities. and pennanent concession stands.
19.08.220 Temporary Sign
"Temporary sign" means a sign which is erected for a limited time and may be used to advertise business,
community or civic projects, real estate for sale or lease, or other special events.
(Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
1908.230 Traffic Markings
"Traffic markings" means all lines, patterns, words, colors or other devices except signs and power-operated traffic-
control devices, set into the surface of, applied upon, or attached to the pavement or curbing or to objects within or
adjacent to the roadway, placed for the purpose of regulating, warning or guiding traffic.
(Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
4
1908.240 Traffic Sign
"Traffic sign" means a device mounted on a fixed or portable support whereby a specific message is conveyed by
means of words or symbols placed or erected for the purposes of regulating, warning or guiding traffic.
(Ord. 1274 ~1(part), 1982)
19.0&.250 Uniform ~uil8inb Code
"Uniform BHildint; Code" meeRS tRe eHrrently adopted edition oftRe Uniform BuildiRg Code, TMC Chapter Ie.!:!'!.
(Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
19 08.260 Unique Sign
"Unique sign" means a building or other structure of unique design and exterior decor, where the entire structure
may be considered an advertising device, including but not limited to shapes imitating hats, boots, tires, statues,
parts of anatomy, or manufactured items such as airplanes, cars, boats, carriages, or symbols which mayor may not
contain lettering.
Chapter 19 12
PERMITS
Sections:
1912.010 Required .
19 12.020 Application Procedure
19 12.030 Application for Sign Penn it - Contents
19 12.050 Exceptions - Penn its Not Required
19 12.060 Criteria for Granting Variances
19 12.070 Fees - Pennanent Signs
19 12.080 Fees - Temporary Signs
19 12.090 Fees - Work Started Prior to Pennit Issuance
19 12.110 Maintenance and Removal of Signs
19 12.120 Special Penn it Signs and Displays
19 12.130 Revocation
]9 ]2.010 Required
A. No sign which is legible from the public right of way. adiacent properties. or adiacent businesses shall
hereafter be erected, re-erected, constructed or altered, except as provided by this code and a pennit for the same
has been issued by the City acting through its Planning Director, provided that a sign posted for purposes of giving
public notice pursuant to TMC 18.104 110 shall be exempt from the requirements of this title.
B A separate pennit is required for each group of signs on a single support structure or the sign or signs for each
business entity In addition, electrical permits shall be obtained for electrified signs.
(Ord. 1913 ~ 1 (part), 2000)
19.12.020 Application Procedure
Application for a sign pennit shall be made in writing upon fonns furnished by the Department of Community
Development. Sign pennits other than special pennission signs and unique signs shall be a Type] decision,
provided that the denial of approval for a Type I sign permit shall be appealable to the Planning Commission
pursuant to the provisions ofTMC ]8.108.020 for appeals of Type 2 decisions. Special pennission signs shall be a
Type 2 decision and shall be processed pursuant to the tenns of TMC 18.108.040 and .050 Unique signs shall be a
Type 3 decision and shall be processed pursuant to the tenns ofTMC 18.]08.030 Such application shall contain
the location of the proposed sign structure by street and number or by surveyor's exhibit or legal description, as well
as the name and address of the sign contractor or erector
(Ord. 19 13 ~ 1 (part), 2000)
19 12.030 Application for Sign Penn it - Contents
When applying for a sign pennit, a simple illustration showing how the proposed sign shall look on the site shall be
submitted. A vicinity map at a scale of] inch representing 200 feet (or larger) shall be required, showing the
property on which the proposed sign is located, the street and nearest intersection, together with a site map at the
scale of] inch representing 20 feet (or larger) showing the location of the sign, structures, right-of-way, easements
and property lines. Elevation projections of the proposed sign shall also be submitted with the application and shall
include, but not be limited to, the following: the sign's relationship to the property lines, easements, setback lines,
supporting structure, colors and materials and method of illumination.
(Ord. 19 13 ~ 1 (part), 2000)
19 12.050 Exceptions - Permits Not Required
A. The following shall not require a permit (these exceptions shall not be construed as relieving the owner of any
sign from the responsibility of its erection and maintenance and its comphance with the provisions of this code or
any other law or ordinance regulating the same):
1 The changing of the advertising copy or message on a theater marquee, readerboard, billboard, and
similar signs specifically designed for the use of replacement copy, or the changing of the advertising copy or
message on an electronic sign, so long as the advertising copy or message is not changed at a frequency more rapid
than once every 24 hours. A change in the advertising copy or message that occurs more rapidly than once every 24
5
hours will cause the sign to be considered to be an animated sign under TMC 19.08030 and is prohibited under
TMC 19.28010(3).
2. Repainting of an existing sign when there is no other alteration.
3 Temporary signs and decorations customary for special holidays, such as Independence Day and
Christmas,.erected entirely on private property
4 Real Est.ate Signs:
a. Real estate signs 16 square feet or less in area offering the immediate premises for sale, lease or
rent, except in LDR, MDR and HDR zones where the maximum sign area allowed is 6 square feet.
b. Portable real estate directional signs (such as "A" boards), provided they are used only when the
real estate company representative, agent or seIler is in attendance at the property for sale.
c. Rigid real estate directional signs, provided they are used to advertise a property that is currently
for sale.
5 Signs not exceeding 4 square feet in area and advertising acceptance of credit cards, provided these are
located on the face of a building or upon another larger sign background area for which a permit has been obtained.
6. One, on-premises sign not electrical or illuminated, 4 square feet in area or less, which is affixed
permanentJy on a plane parallel to the wall that is located entirely on private property
7 Traffic signs and/or markings, for the purpose of regulating, warning, or guiding traffic, whether on
public or private property Such signs and markings shall comply with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control
Devices for Streets and Highways, current edition, published by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal
Highway Administration.
8 Bulletin boards not over 12 square feet in area for each public, charitable or religious institution when
the same is located on the premises of said institution.
9 Temporary signs denoting the architect, engineer or contractor, when placed upon work under
construction and not exceeding 32 square feet in area.
10. Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings, and dates of erection, when cut into any masonry surface
or when constructed of bronze or other non-combustible material.
II Signs of utilities indicating danger and service or safety information.
12. A maximum of four internal information signs as defined in TMC 1908.120 and as regulated by TMC
Section 19.22.
13 Political signs, posters, or bills shall not exceed 32 square feet in area (if single faced) or 64 square feet
(if multi-faced); and, if located on private property, must have the consent of the property owner or the JawfuJ
occupant thereof. Each political sign shall be removed within 10 days following an election, except that the
successful candidates of a primary election may keep their signs on display until 10 days after the general election,
at which time they shall be promptly removed. Signs of a more general political nature (not related to an election)
are not subject to time restrictions. It is unJawful for any person to paste, paint, affix or fasten onto the surface of
any utility pole, bridge, sidewalk, or City-owned or operated vehicle, or any public facility of any kind any such
sign, poster, bill or advertising device when such facilities are located on public property or within public
easements.
14 Window signs which are of a temporary nature for commercial businesses and which occupy less than
25% of the window surface. Signs on or in the window which occupy more than 25% of the window surface are
permanent and will be considered part of the overall signing pennitted for the business. Such permanent window
signs shall require pennits.
15 Signs of community service and fraternal organizations, including notation of place and date of regular
activity meetings.
16. Temporary signs displayed on City of Tukwila parks property Said signage must be pre-approved by
the Director of the Tukwila Parks Department prior to display
17 Scoreboards installed on sports fields and sports stadiums in LDR zones with a Public Recreation
Overlav. Such signs must meet the illumination and brightness limitations for electronic signs set forth in TMC
19.12.035. The scoreboard must be oriented towards the sports fields and must not be legible from the public right
of way and adiacent properties. If the sign is to have a video displav it does not qualify for this exception and must
meet the permit criteria laid out in TMC 19.32.200.
B. The provisions of this section shall be narrowly construed so as to effectuate the purposes of this Title, as
enumerated in TMC 19.04.020
(OIrd. 201995,2003, Ord. 200491,2002,
Ord. 19 I 3 ~ I (part), 2000)
19 12.060 Criteria for Granting Variances
A. Variance review shall be a Type 3 permit pursuant to 18.104010. The Hearing Examiner may grant a
variance to the requirements of this code only if the applicant demonstrates compliance with the following criteria:
I That the variance as approved shall not constitute a grant of special privilege which is inconsistent with
the intent of this sign code, nor which contravenes the limitation uses of property specified by the zoning
classification in which this property is located.
2. That the variance is necessary because of special circumstances relating to the size, shape, topography,
location or surroundings of the subject property to provide it with use rights and privileges pennitted to other
properties in the vicinity and in the zone in which the subject property is located.
3 That the granting of the variance will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to
property or improvements in the vicinity and in the zone in which the subject property is located.
4 That the special conditions and circumstances prompting the variance request do not result from the
actions of the applicant.
6
5 That the variance as granted represents the least amount of deviation from prescribed regulations
necessary to accomplish the purpose for which the variance is sought and which is consistent with the stated intent
of this code.
6. That granting of the variance shall result in greater convenience to the public in identifying the business
location for which a sign code variance is sought.
7 That th~ granting of the variance will not constitute a public nuisance or adversely affect the public
safety
B The proposed variance shall not interfere with the location and identification of adjacent business buildings
or activities.
(Ord. 1913 ~ 1 (part), 2000)
19 12.070 Fees - Permanent Signs
An application fee shaH be paid at the time of application for a permit to erect or install a sign or device controlled
by this code. The fee shall be per the Land Use Fee Schedule most recently adopted by the City Council. This fee
does not include the costs of engineering checks nor of electrical or other inspections required by other appropriate
agencIes.
(Ord. 2004 ~2, 2002; Ord. 1913 ~1(part), 2000)
]9 12.080 Fees - Temporary Signs
An application fee shall be paid at the tiine of application for a permit to erect or install temporary signs, banners,
streamers, and other sp~cial pennit signs as provided in TMC Chapter 19.24 The fee shall be per the Land Use Fee
Schedule most recently adopted by the City Council.
(Ord. 2004 ~3, 2002; Ord. 1913 ~I(part), 2000)
19 12.090 Fees - Work Started Prior to Permit Issuance
Where work for which a permit is required by this code is started prior to obtaining a permit, the fees specified in
the Land Use Fee Schedule shaU be doubled, but the payment of such double fee shall not relieve any person from
fully complying with the requirements of this code in the execution of the work nor from any other penalties
prescribed herein.
(Ord. 2004 ~4, 2002, Ord. 1913 ~ I (part), 2000)
] 9 12.110 Maintenance and Removal of Signs
A. All signs together with their supports, braces, guys and anchors shall be kept in repair and in proper state of
preservation. The surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at aU times. The ground area shall be
neat and orderly
B The Planning Director may order the removal or maintenance of any sign that is not maintained in a safe and
orderly condition. The order for removal or maintenance of any sign shall be sent by the Planning Director to the
person to whom the sign permit was granted, or the property owner if no authorized permit was granted, by certified
mail, return receipt requested. If the action requested in the order is not taken within 30 days from the date of the
notice, the Planning Director may direct the signs to be removed from the premises. The permittee or owner shall
be charged an amount equal to the City cost for removal, but in no event shall the fee be less than $50 00.
(Ord. 1913 ~ I (part), 2000)
19 12.120 Special Permit Signs and Displays
Strings or pennants, banners and streamers, festoons of lights, clusters of flags, balloons, searchlights and similar
devices of a carnival nature may be displayed on private property only, by special permit. Such permit shall be
issued only for the grand opening of a new enterprise or the grand opening of an enterprise under new management.
The period ofthe permit shall not exceed 7 days. Searchlight beams shall not flash against any building or sweep
an arc greater than 45 degrees from vertical.
(Ord. 1913 ~l(part), 2000)
19 12.130 Revocation
The Planning Director is authorized and empowered to revoke any permit upon failure ofthe holder thereof to
comply with any provision of this code.
(Ord. 1913 ~ 1 (part), 2000).
Sections:
I - DESIGN
1916.010 Conformance to Building Code Required
19 16.020 Exposed Surfaces - Appearance
19 16.030 Glare Prevention Required
19 16.03SIIJumination and Brightness Levels of Signs
19 16.040 Wall-Mounted Signs
1916.050 Signs Near Intersections or Visible from Vehicles
II - CONSTRUCTION
1916.060 Supports to Conform to Building Code
19 16.070 Materials
19 16.080 Electrical Wiring
19 16.090 Combustible Materials Displays
19 16 100 Anchorage
7
I - DESIGN
19 16.010 Conformance to Building Code Required
Signs and structures shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the requirements for structures in the
Yffifeffit State Building Code, TMC Chapter 1604
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
19 16.020 Exposed Surfaces - Appearance
The exposed surfaces of all signs and sign supports shall present a neat and finished appearance, utilizing the
minimum number of elements and exposed fastening devices.
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
19 16.030 Glare Prevention Required
The signs shall be illuminated or detailed in such a way that glare is not created for occupants of surrounding
properties or for drivers or pedestrians using adjacent streets and right-of-way
(Ord. 1274 gl (part), 1982)
19 16.035 Illumination and Brightness Levels of Signs
A. All signs shall have installed ambient light monitors, and shall at all times allow such monitors to
automatically adjust the brightness level;ofthe electronic sign based on ambient light conditions.
B Maximum brightness levels for electronic signs shall not exceed 5,000 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, i.e. the time of the day between sunrise and sunset.
C. For signs using incandescent lamps, such lamps shall be no more than 15 watts.
(Ord. 2019 g4, 2003)
19 16.040 Wall-Mounted Signs
No part of a wall-mounted sign shall extend above the top of the wall to which the signing is attached.
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
19 16.050 Signs Near Intersection or Visible from Vehicles
Where the sign is in the vicinity of an intersection, or where the sign is intended to be read from moving vehicles,
the graphic devices and letter styles employed shall be clear and easy to read.
(Ord. 1274 gl (part), 1982)
II - CONSTRUCTION
19 16.060 Supports to Conform to Building Code
SigH ar sigH structures sHall be placed in or upon private property aRd shall be seemsly built, cORstructed aRd
erected iR accordance witH the requirements afthe adaflteEl edition oftRe URiform Building Code, TJvIC Chapter
~
(Ord.. 1271 ~1(flart), 1982)
Signs and structures shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the requirements for structures in the
Washington State Building Code, TMC Title 16.
19 16.070 Materials
Materials of construction for signs and sign structures shall be the quality and grade as specified for buildings in the
adopted edition of the YffifeFm State Building Code. In all signs and sign structures the materials and details of
construction shall, in the absence of specified requirements, conform with the following:
1 Structural steel shall be of such quality as to conform with the Uniform State Building Code standards.
Secondary members in contact with or directly supporting the display surface may be formed of light gauge steel,
provided such members are designed in accordance with the specifications of the design of light gauge steel as
specified in the YffifeFm State Building Code standards and, in addition, ferrous metals shall be galvanized.
Secondary members, when formed integrally with the display surface, shall not be less than No. 24 gauge in
thickness. When not formed integrally with the display surface, the minimum thickness of the secondary members
shall be No. 12 gauge. Steel members may be connected with one galvanized or equivalent bolt provided the
connection is adequate to transfer the stresses in the members.
2. Anchors and supports, when of wood and embedded in the soil or within six inches of the soil, shall be
of a durable species or shall be pressure-treated with an approved preservative. Such members shall be marked or
branded by a recognized lumber grading or inspections agency
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
19 16.080 Electrical Wiring
A. All signs containing electrical wiring shall be subject to the requirements of the National Electrical Code,
current edition, and shall bear the seal of a recognized testing agency and/or be approved by the appropriate State
agency
B Electrical service shall be located underground or otherwise concealed from view; meters and disconnects
shall be integrated with the design or its support to conceal or blend with it.
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
8
1916.090 Combustible Materials Displays
All combustible gas-burning displays, fossil-fueled or other liquefied or gassified combustible materials, used for
advertising or illumination in connection with advertising displays, must meet all federal, State and municipal
building and fire regulations and codes, and be certified by a nationally recognized testing organization such as the
American qas Association.
(Ord. 1274 gl(part),.1982)
Chapter 19.24
TEMPORARY SIGNS
Sections:
19.24.0IOArea Restrictions - Time Limit
19.24.020Cloth Signs - Support
19.24.030Cloth Signs - Projection
19.24.040Cloth Signs - Clearance
19.24 050Real Estate Directional Signs
19.24 060Sign Identification
19.24.0 I 0 Area Restrictions - Time Limit
A. Temporary signs may not exceed a total of 64 square feet in sign face area for all temporary signs being
displayed. The number of on-premises temporary signs shall be limited to no more than two at anyone time.
Temporary signs may remain in place for a period not exceeding 30 days, except real estate signs which may be
displayed as long as the property is for sale, or special permit signs as provided in TMC 19.12.120 Portable real
estate directional signs (such as "A" boards) are permitted only when the real estate company representative or
agent or seller is in attendance at the property for sale. Rigid real estate directional signs are permitted provided
they are used to advertise a property that is currently for sale.
B Temporary sign permits shall not be issued more frequently than once per calendar quarter per business.
Temporary sign permits may be renewed for an identical period upon payment of an identical fee.
(Ord. 1913 g2,2000)
19.24020 Cloth Signs - Support
Every temporary cloth sign, when extended over a public right-of-way, shall be supported and attached with wire
rope of 3/8-inch minimum diameter or other material of equivalent breaking strength. No strings, fiber ropes or
wood slats shall be permitted for support or anchorage purposes. Cloth signs and panels shall be perforated over at
least 10% of their area to reduce wind resistance.
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
19.24.030 Cloth Signs - Projection
Cloth signs may extend over public property Such signs, when extended over a public right-of-way, shall maintain
a minimum clearance of20 feet. Temporary signs other than cloth, when eight feet or more above ground, may
project not more than twelve inches over public property or beyond the legal setback line.
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
19.24.040 Cloth Signs - Clearance
Cloth signs may extend across a public right-of-way only by permission of the City Council, and shall be subject to
all related laws and ordinances.
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
19.24.050 Real Estate Directional Signs
A. Real estate directional signs shall have a maximum size of six square feet. Such directional signs shall not be
placed closer than four feet to the edge of the public right-of-way and shall not be placed in such a manner as to
constitute a public safety hazard.
B. No more than two such signs shall be allowed at anyone intersection. Only one sign per development shall
be allowed at each intersection. Three signs (total) per development shall be allowed.
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
19.24.055 Museums
A. Museums shall be permitted to have two temporary banners not exceeding six percent of the wall area where the
sign will be placed or 500 square feet which ever is less. The temporary banner must be removed at the conclusion
of the event it is advertising.
19.24.060 Sign Identification
All temporary signs shall have the sign permit number placed at the upper left-hand corner by the permittee.
(Ord. 1274 9 I (part), 1982)
Chapter 19.3 2
9
REGULATIONS BASED ON
LAND USE CATEGORIES
Sections:
1- GENERAL REGULATIONS
19.32.010 Generally
19.32.020 Shared Directional Signs
19.32.030 Signs in Underground Utility Easements and Corridors
19.32.040 Billboards - Area Restrictions
19.32.050 Exposed Neon Tubing - Use Restricted
19.32.060 Freestanding Signs - Proximity to Certain Zones
19.32.070 Freestanding Signs - Setback
II - SINGLE-FAMILY ZONES
19.32.080 Home Occupation - Church, Approved Conditional Use and Public Facility Signs
ill - MULTIPLE F AMlL Y ZONES
19.32.090 Where Signs Will Face Single-Family Zones or Parks
19.32.100 Where Signs Will Face Other Multiple-Family, Commercial or Industrial Zones
19.32.110 Multiple Fqmily Development
IV - COrvIMERCIAL ZONES
19.32.120 Where Signs Will Face or Abut Single-Family Zones
19.32.130 Where Signs Will Face or Abut Multiple-Family Zones or Public Facilities
19.32.140 Commercial Zones Where Signs Will Face or Abut Other Commercial or Industrial Zones, Except as
Provided in TMC 19.32.150 through TMC 19.32.190, Inclusive
v - PLANNED SHOPPING CENTERS (MALL)
19.32.150 Building Identification Signs - Displays
19.32.155 Identification Signs for the Center as a Whole
Vl- SERVICE STATIONS
19.32.160 Surrounded by Commercial or Industrial Zones
VII - INDUSTRIAL ZONES
19.32.170 Permitted Signs - Height
VITI - FREEWAY INTERCHAl'1GE BUSINESSES
19.32.1.80 Permitted Signs - Height and Area Allowance
IX - HOTELS
19.32.190 Signs Mounted on Hotel Building Faces
X - VIDEO DISPLAYS
19.32.200 Video Displavs at Soorts Stadiums
I - GENERAL REGULATIONS
19.32.010 Generally
The type, character, number, location and size of permanent signs varies with the land use category in which the
signs are located. The land use categories are as established under Title 18 of this code.
(Ord. 1274 !il(part), 1982)
19.32.020 Shared Directional Signs
In commercial and industrial areas where a demonstrated need for directional signing exists, owners or tenants of
these premises may apply for review and approval of the design of a shared directional sign. Such application shall
be processed as a Type 2 decision. Such sign shall not exceed ten feet in height, ten feet in width, and have a
maximum of two signing surfaces which do not exceed a total of 50 square feet. Such sign shall be located on the
premises of at least one of the entities identified thereon and shall be used only by geographically associated
businesses. The sign structure shall be located in a masonry base of decorative appearance. The shared directional
sign shall contain no promotional copy but shall be limited to the names and addresses of the companies or
activities being identified.
(Ord. 1770 !}73, 1996; Ord. 1274 !i I (part), 1982)
19.32.030 Signs in Underground Utility Easements and Corridors
Where underground utility easements or corridors have been established, no signs shall be located in the corridor or
easement except as specified in TMC 19.20.020C.
(Ord. 1274 !i 1 (part), 1982)
10
19.32.040 Billboards - Area Restrictions
Billboards shall not exceed 300 square feet in area. All billboard structures shall be of "single-post" construction
and shall be set back a minimum'of IS feet from the edge of the publIc right-of-way; a greater setback may be
required by the Public Works Director to preserve adequate traffic safety sight distance. Billboards shall not be
spaced less than 500 lineal feet apart. In addition, billboards shall be located only on the following street corridors
and only within tho!\e portions thereof depicted on Exhibit B of this code: West Valley Highway (SR 181) south of
S. 180th St. and Interurban Avenue north of the Interstates interchange.
(Ord. 1274 ~ I (part), 1982)
19.32.050 Exposed Neon Tubing - Use Restricted
No exposed neon tubing shall be used where sign face is within 200 feet of a multiple-family or single-family zone.
(Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
19.32.060 Freestanding Signs - Proximity to Certain Zones
No freestanding sign shall be located within 100 feet of a multiple-family or single-family zone, except as provided
in TMC 19.32.080 through TMC 19.32.130, inclusive.
(Ord. 1274 ~1(part), 1982)
19.32.070 Freestanding Signs - Setback
Any freestanding sign shall be set back from all property lines a distance at least equal to the overall height of the
sign, except for public facility signs as specified in TMC 19.32.080, 19.32.100, 19.32.120 and 19.32.130, and for
signs allowed under the "freeway interchange businesses" sign provisions in TMC 19.32.180 Freeway interchange
business signs may be located on the property in a location that does not conflict with on-site vehicular or
pedestrian traffic. Freeway interchange business signs may be located within the area designated as the minimum
setback requirement in its zoning classification.
(Ord. 1892 ~ 4,1999; Ord. 1274 ~l(part), 1982)
II SINGLE P:\MIL Y ZONES
II. RESIDENTIAL ZONES
19.32.080 Horne Occupation - Church, Approved Conditional Use and Public Facility Signs
A. Home occupations may be identified by a single, non-illuminated wall plaque of not more than 1-112 square
feet.
B. A church. conditional use. or public facility shall be permitted at least one wall sign and one freestanding sign
or two wall signs. No wall may have more than one wall sign. One additional sign shall be allowed for each
additional street frontage. Total area of the sign or signs for the use shall not exceed 50 square feet per sign,
maximum height above ground. when in the setback area. shall not exceed 16 feet: minimum setback shall be eight
feet: and the base of the sign shall be located in a landscaped area. Bulletin boards and readerboards are considered
signs. Illuminated si~s shall use indirect. concealed sources. or backlighted letters on an opaque background.
C. Each multiple-family development mav have one sign for the purpose of naming or otherwise identifying
the proiect. Total area of the sign faces shall not exceed 32 square feet: maximum height above average grade,
when in setback area. shall not exceed five feet. and base ofthe sign shall be located in landscaped area.
Illuminated signs shall be front-lighted from concealed sources or back-lighted channel letters or back-lighted cut-
out letters framed bv an o\JaQue cabinet or non-illuminated opaque sign panels.
B. Churches and appreved eomlitioAal Hses may have eRe sigH for eacH street 11pOA .....Hieh the property fronts;
sigAs shall ee locates iR the setback area or HpOR the face efthe bHildiAg. Total area of sigH or sigAs shall Rot
exceed 32 sEjHare feet; mcedmHm heigHt above grOHRd, wHen iR seteaek area, sHall AOt exeees five feet, aRCI ease of
sigA sHall be located iR a JaRdscaped area. BlIlletiA eoards aRE! reaE!ereeards are ceAsidered sigHS. Illuminated signs
shall Hse indirect, cOReealed seHrces, or backlighted letters en an epaqlle backgroHnd. f.ll sigRs iA this sHbsection
must be approved as a Type 2 deeisioA.
C. Pl:lblic facilities may have ORe sign for each street upon wHicH the preperty ffOAts; sigHs shall be locatee iH the
setbad, area or UpOA the faee of tile buildiRg. Total area efsigH or sigHs shall Hot exceee60 sEjuare feet per faee;
maximum heigfit abeve ground, wHen iH setbaek area, sHall AOt e).eeed 16 f-eet; miRimum seteael, shall be eight feet;
ElRd base ef sigH shall be loeatee iA a laAdscapee area. Blilletin boards aRd reaE!erboards are cORsidered sigHs.
Illun1inatee signs sllallllse indireet, cOAcealee sources, er back ligfited letters OR aR epaque baekgrollne. .^.ll signs
iR this subsectioR m'.lst be approvee as a Type 2 decision.
(Ord. 1770 ~74, 1996; Ord. 1617 ~3(part), 1991,
Ord. 1274 ~1(part), 1982)
III MlJ'~ TIPLE PAMIL Y ZONES
19.32.090 '.'illere Signs Will Paee Single Family Zenes or Parks
Home occupatieRs may be ieeHtified by a single, non illumiHated wall plaqlie of HOt more thaR I 1/2 square feet.
(Ord. 127'1 ~I(part), 1982)
19.32.100 Where Signs Will Face Other Multiple Famil)', Commercial or Ineustrial ZORes
A. Home oecupatioRs may be ideHtified by a single wall plaque HOt more than twe sEjllare feet; plaque may be
illumiHatee from front.
11
~/
~.
1P~~>S
~A}i\"€-v..C~
\"1 - CO\'"
. . \99\'
'. . O{Q.' \6\1 ~" \9'01-)
. 16 \996. 1b. ~\'-\l~~)'
~ \ 11() ~ . O{O-. \1-
,-O{'"
(Ord. 1770 ~77, 1996, Ord. 1617 ~3(part), 1991,
Ord. 1274 ~ I (part) 1982)
19.32.110 Cornmereial Zones '.~.'here SigAs 'Nil! Faee or :\but Other Commercial or Industrial ZOAes, Except as
Provided in Section 19.32.150 through SectioA 19.32.190, IAelusive
19.32.140 Si!! L cated outside of residential zones exce t as Provided in Section 19.32.150 throu h Section
19.32.190. Inclu lve
A. Signs mounted on exposed building faces: Each business shall be permitted one exposed building face-
mounted sign. One additional exposed building face-mounted sign can be permitted for each business that is not
identified on any freestanding sigA, provided:
1 That the busiAess has more thaA one exterior public entrance in the same building, exclusive of
warehouse area doors, or
2. That there is no more than one sign per business on any exposed building face.
The area of all signs on an exposed building face for each business shall be as provided iA Table I
501-1500
1501-3000
3001-5000
Over 5000
Table I
Total Permitted A1;ea of the Sign -I
Square Feet I
0.05 x exposed building face in
s . ft. E.B.F)
25 + 0.04 x (E.B.F - 500)
65 + 0.03 x (E.B.F - 1500)
110 + 002 x (E.B.F - 3000)
150 s uare feet (maximum
jArea (L X H) - Sq.
Ft. Exposed
Buildin Face
0-500
Upon application to and approval as a Type 2 decision, the permitted sign areas provided in Table 1 may be
increased no more than 50% for each doubling ofthe required minimum setback distance for the wall upon which a
particular sign is to be placed, but in no case shall sign area exceed that permitted in TMC 19.32.150
B. Office buildings with multiple tenancies shall be permitted signs as follows:
1 The total allowed signage area for any exposed building face shall be equal to the area given in Table 1
2. Freestanding signs will be allowed as provided in TMC 19.32.140D
3 Each business is permitted a maximum of two signs with not more than one sign for any particular
business allowed on anyone exposed building face. If the business is listed on a freestanding sign it will only be
allowed one wall sign.
4 No one sign shall contain more than 50% of the allowable sign area, unless approved as a Type 2
decision.
5 Applicants for sign permits wil! be required to document the area of the exposed building face on which
the sign is to be placed, total allowed sign area for that face, area of any existing signs, and area of the proposed
sign.
6. Each tenant may also display a room numberlIetter or street number which is visible from the public
street or principle access roadway Such a sign shall not be counted in the sign area permitted for the business.
7 Each group of professional offices may have a directory listing the names of the tenants on the site and
a location map. The directory shall be oriented to the pedestrian on the site rather than the passing motonst.
C. Office building exception: Multi-tenant office buildings which will face or abut other commercial or
industrial zones and which have no common public entry shall be permitted signs as follows:
1 Wall signs shall be allowed as provided in TMC 19.32.140A.
2. Freestanding signs will be allowed as provided in TMC 19.32.140D
3 Each tenant may also display a room number/letter or street number which is visible ITom the public
street or principle access roadway Such a sign shall not be counted in the sign area permitted for the business.
4 Each group of professional offices may have a directory listing the names of the tenants on the site and
a location map. The directory shall be oriented to the pedestrian on the site rather than the passing motorist.
D Freestanding signs:
lOne freestanding sign shall be permitted for each site. One additional free-standing sign may be
permitted for sites that meet the following conditions:
a. The site has at least 400 linear feet of frontage on a public street;
b. The site has at least two detached commercial occupied buildings, neither of which is accessory to
the other; and
c. The site is occupied by at least two tenants. Permitted sign area for each ITeestanding sign shall be
as follows:
Street
Fronta e
Up to 200 ft.
Sign Area/Sign
200 to 400 ft.
! 50 sq. ft. with total of 100 sq. ft. for
I all sides
75 sq. ft. with total of 150 sq. ft. for
all sides
13
f()yer 400 ft.
,
,
i
1100 sq. ft. with total of200 sq. ft. for
i all sides
2. A second freestanding sign may also be permitted if that sign is determined to be a freeway interchange
business sign and has received or is eligible for a permit as such a sign.
3 Any peI;II1itted freestanding sign shall be limited in height to 35 feet, except signs determined to be a
"freeway interchange business" sign, provided that no freestanding sign shall be higher than the building which it
identifies or except as provided in TMC 19.32.150, 19.32.170 and 19.32.180
E. The freestanding sign shall contain no promotional copy but shall be limited to the name of the company or
activity being identified and trademark or logo, except where an approved readerboard is used.
F Non-rolling equipment must be displayed from within buildings or glass fronted cases, except in connection
with temporary commercial, industrial or public service displays.
(Ord. 1892 g5, 1999; Ord. 1773 g I, 1996,
Ord. 1770 g78, 1996, Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
v - PLANNED SHOPPING CENTERS (MALL)
19.32.150 Building Identification Signs - Displays
A. Individual businesses in a planned shopping center (mall) shall be limited to wall mounted signs. The total
allowed signage for any building face shall be equal to 6% of the exposed building face area on which the signs are
to be placed, up to a maximum of 500 square feet. Each business is permitted a maximum of four signs with not
more than one sign for any particular business allowed on anyone exposed building face. No one sign shall contain
more than 50% of the allowable sign area, uuless approved as a Type 2 decision. Applicants for sign permits will
be required to document the area of the exposed building face on which the sign is to be placed, total allowed sign
area for that face, area of any existing signs, and area of the proposed sign.
B. Businesses located on the perimeter of a planned shopping center (mall) in detached, separate buildings shall
be allowed freestanding signs per TMC 19.32.140D
(Ord. 1773 g2, 1996, Ord. 1770 g79, 1996,
Ord. 1274 g I (part), 1982)
19.32.155 Identification Signs for the Center as a Whole
Identification signs for the center as a whole shall have an aggregate area of not more than 300 square feet per street
which abuts the development, and no one sign shall contain more than 50% of the allowable sign area, unless
approved as a Type 2 decision. The height of a freestanding sign shall not exceed the highest portion of any
building in the planned shopping center (mall) which is identified thereby Non-rolling equipment and merchandise
must be displayed from within buildings or glass-fronted cases, except in connection with a temporary commercial,
industrial or public service display
(Ord. 1773 g3, 1996)
VI - SERVICE STATIONS
19.32.160 Surrounded by Commercial or Industrial Zones
Where service stations are located across the street from or abut commercial or industrial zones, the following
requirements are applicable:
lOne freestanding, lighted, double-faced identification sign not exceeding 150 square feet for the total of
all faces with no one face exceeding 75 square feet is permitted. Such sign shall not exceed a height of 35 feet.
The sign shall be lighted only during business hours.
2. One sign mounted on an exposed building face is permitted for each street frontage and shall not
exceed 20% of the exposed building face area to which it is attached. Such face-mounted signs may be illuminated.
3 Two unlighted double-faced signs not exceeding 20 square feet per face are permitted. Such signs shall
be non-portable and may be used for advertising copy customarily displayed in service stations.
4 In addition to the above regulations, the following signs are allowed without permit:
a. Signs at each pump island denoting the type of fuel, price and service available, providing such
signs are permanently mounted to pumps or pump island structures.
b. Signs on roll-away type racks advertising merchandise in such racks. Examples include tire racks,
batteries, bulk oil sales, etc. Such signs are limited to two square feet.
(Ord. 1274 ~I(part), 1982)
Vll - INDUSTRIAL ZONES
19.32.170 Permitted Signs - Height
Signs shall be as described under TMC 19.32.140, except that height of a freestanding sign permitted for the first
ten acres is 45 feet.
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
VIll - FREEWAY INTERCHANGE BUSINESSES
14
19.32.180 Permitted Signs - Height and Area Allowance
The maximum allowed message area for a freeway interchange business sign is 125 square feet per face or a total of
250 square feet for all faces of the sign. The minimum height allowed for a freeway interchange business sign shall
be 35 feet and the maximum height shall be 125 feet. The minimum and maximum height for a freeway interchange
sign includes any and all message areas attributable to the business the sign advertises. No portion of the message
area, including logo~, text or other advertisements, for the freeway interchange sign may be located below 35 feet
on the freeway interchange business sign.
(Ord. 189296,1999; Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982)
IX - HOTELS
19.32.190 Signs Mounted on Hotel Building Faces
A. Each hotel shall be permitted one building face-mounted sign on each building face of the hotel, which sign
shall contain only the hotel name and/or logo. The area of each building face-mounted sign shall be as provided in
Table I ofTMC 19.32.140A. A hotel may not have more than four building face-mounted signs, except as
provided in TMC 19.32.190B. For the purpose of this subsection, "building face" shall be defined as provided in
TMC 19.08.060 without the limiting requirements of subsections 1,2 and 3 thereof.
B. If a hotel has a restaurant operation which is located in the hotel building, then the hotel shall be permitted
one additional exposed building face-mounted sign within the area as provided in Table I ofTMC 19.32.140A,
provided, that the sign.is placed on the ground floor of the exposed building face and identifies only the restaurant
name.
C. A hotel shall be permitted freestanding and internal information signs as provided in TMC 19.32.140D and
TMC Chapter 19.22, respectively
(Ord. 1274 gl(part), 1982).
X - VIDEO DISPLAYS
19.32.200 Video Displays at Sports Stadiums
A. Scoreboards as permitted by TMC 19.12.050 (17) are permitted to have a video display provided they meet
the following requirements:
I The scoreboard and the video display must be one integrated structure.
2. Video displays are only permitted at sports stadiums that have a seating capacity of at least 2.000
persons or greater. Such stadiums must be located in the LDR zone and have a Public Recreation
Overlay.
3 Only on scoreboard with video display is permitted oer field.
4 The video display may on Iv be used between the hours of 8am to 11 pm.
5 The entire scoreboard with video displav cannot exceed 200 square feet.
6 The scoreboard with video display must face away from the public right ofwav. public trails.
adiacent properties. and water bodies. The video display must have minimal visibility from
adiacent properties. public rights ofwav. and public trails. The video displav cannot have a
negative impact on the quiet eniovrnent of surrounding residential properties. as determined bv the
Director ofDCD.
7 The scoreboard with video display must meet the setbacks requirement ofTMC 19.32.070.
8. Such video display must meet the illumination and brightness limitations for electronic signs set
forth in TMC 19.32.035.
9 The sign must meet the height standards ofTMC 19.32.140 CD) (3).
10 Such scoreboards with video display shall be permitted as a Tvoe II decision. The following
information must be submitted for approval of the Tyoe II decision.
a. An application form provided by the City ofTukwila:
b. A written narrative regarding compliance with the requirements in TMC 19.32.080 (D);
c. A site map drawn to scale with north arrow showing the location of the proposed si go.
property lines. and adiacent public rights ofwav:
d. Elevations of the proposed sign drawn to an appropriate scale:
e. If the sign requires structural engineering the appropriate engineering documents.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, at a
Regular Meeting thereof this day of ,2001.
Steven M. Mullet, Mayor
ATTEST/ AUTHENTICATED'
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