HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOW 2005-04-11 Item 4E - Discussion - TMC Title 19 Certain Types of Signage CO UNCIL AGENDA SiiwosIs
Llitia/s ITEM NO.
I I PA 1 �'leet111g Date I Prepared b)' Mayor's review I Council r2'Ulew
t +ui\�� B. Miles f
04 -11 -05 S. Lancast4
ITEM INFORMATION
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CAS NUMBER: REF 04-144 05-065 ORIGINAL AGENDA DATE:(NOVEMBER 22, 2004) 4/11/05
AGENDA ITEM TITLE Proposed changes to TMC Title 19, regarding certain types of signage within the City.
CATEGORY Discussion E Motion Resolution Ordinance Bid Award E Public Hearing n Other
A'IIg Date
4/11/05 AN Date Altg Date 11Itg Date AItg Date AItg Date Altg Date
SPONSOR E Council Mayor Human Services
Adm Svcs DCD Finance Fire Legal P&R ❑Police 1 PW
SPONSOR'S The proposed changes to TMC Title 19 would allow scoreboards, video displays on
SUMMARY scoreboards, clarify that some signs are not regulated under the City's sign code, increase the
number of signs for some uses in residential zones, allow for greater sign area for museums
and remove all references to the Uniform Building Code (UBC).
REVIEWED BY E COW Mtg. CA &P Cmte E F &S Cmte E Transportation Cmte
Utilities Cmte Arts Comm. n Parks Comm. Planning Comm.
DATE: 2 -15 -2005
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Discuss item and forward to next regular meeting for a public
SPONSOR /ADMIN. hearing, consideration, and adoption.
COMiMIrIEE Same as sponsor.
COST IMPACT FUND SOURCE
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED AMOUNT BUDGETED APPROPRIATION REQUIRED
$N /A $N /A $N /A
Fund Source:
Comments:
MTG. DATE RECORD OF COUNCIL ACTION
MTG. DATE ATTACHMENTS
04 -11 -05 Memorandum from S. Lancaster dated 03- 30 -05.
Minutes Community Affairs Parks Committee February 15, 2005
Planning Commission Staff Report dated 11- 08 -04.
Proposed Ordinance Draft format.
City of Tukwila
Steven M. Mullet} Mayor
Department of Community Development
Steve Lancaster, Director
MEMO
RE:
Committee of the Whole
Stev~ Lanc~st~r, DirectoY vJ
Sign Code Revisions
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
March 30, 2005
On November 18, 2004, the Planning Commission held a public hearing and passed a
motion proposing minor changes to the City's sign code. The proposed changes went to
CAP on February 15,2005. Following the CAP meeting, staff prepared a draft ordinance
that incorporated the comments staff received trom committee members.
The proposed amendments address the following areas of the sign code:
1. Scoreboards would be permitted at sports fields located in the LDR zone with a
public recreation overlay.
2. Video Displays on scoreboards at sports stadiums would be permitted with a seating
capacity greater than 2,000 persons. The placement of such a sign would require
special permission trom the Director of Community Development.
3. Clarify that certain signs are not regulated under the City's sign code. This code
amendment would clarify that signs not legible trom the public right of way,
adjacent properties, or other business are not regulated under the sign code.
4. Increase the number of pen11anent signs permitted at Public Facilities, Conditional
Uses, and Churches in residential zones to be consistent with what is allowed for
commercial properties.
5. Allow for greater signage at Museums.
6. Delete all references to the Uniform Building Code.
If COW has no significant changes this item will be fonvarded to the May 2,2005 meeting
for a public hearing and possible adoption.
6300 Southcenter Boulevard} Suite #100 · Tukwila} Washington 98188 · Phone: 206-431-3670 · Fax: 206-431-3665
Community and Parks Committee
Febnlary 15, 2005
Present:
Joe Duffie, Chair; Joan Hernandez, Dennis Robertson
Evie Boykan, Jack Pace, Brandon rvfiles, Paul Surek, Bruce Fletcher, Nick Olivas,
Dave Haynes, Rhonda Berry, Kevin Fuhrer, Derek Speck, Lucy Lauterbach;
ivIichael Brown-Johnson Braund; Annie Dooks and Paul Berry- Wet HiU
Annexation .
1. Interlocal A2reement with Tuk,vila School District for Human Services Evie explained
that the City has contracted with service providers who provide some services on the school
grounds. Because administrations and school board members change, Evie thought ita good idea
to have an interlocal agreement coveting human service use of the schools. The Committee
agreed it was a good idea, and said they supported the interlocal. The school district is reviewing
it no\v also. Recommend interlocal.to CO\V.
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2. \Vest Hill Annexation Annie spoke first, saying that annexation was an open issue on the
\Vest Hill. Most of the area is in the Renton school district. Their main business revenues come
from t\VO casinos and a bo\vling alley. It is a largely residential area. King County has started a
study that will give information about their area, and they are in turn finding information from
Renton, Seattle and perhaps Tukwila. They asked what Tukwila's interest in annexation might
be, and if there was any interest at all, they would include Tukwila in their study. Dennis talked
about his own efforts at aQl1exation, and expressed appreciation to Annie and Paul for their work.
He said he drove around the area, and saw the roads allIed north and south in the \Vest Hill area.
He thought there were almost no connections bet\veen West Hill and Tukwila in any social,
community, school or other manner. Joan said the City is no\v very busy with the armexation
with an area that was in our potential Annexation Area for a long time. She thought that would
preclude any other annexations in the near term. Refer issue of Tukwila's interest in
annexation to CO\V.
,.V3. Planning Commission Sien Code Recommendations The Committee started to work
./j though the amendments that had been charted in a matrix. Dennis had several questions on the
summary memo before the matrix. Going through the new regulations, he expressed concern
about the non-sport use of the animated scoreboards, and \vhether "minimal" 'off-site viewing
would be disruptive or bothersome to anyone. Brandon explained that though scoreboard will be
allowed in LDR zones that have a Public Recreation Overlay, the only two signs now are at
Foster High and Starfire. The changes would allo\v video displaces at sports stadiums that seat
2,000 people. The code change clarifies that signs that are not clearly visible from the public
right of way or adjacent properties are not regulated under the sign code. It increases the number
of permanent signs permitted at Public Facilities in residential zones to be consistent with what is
permitted at commercial properties. It also calls for greater signage at the Ivluseum of Flight.
Fonvard sign cod.e changes to CO\V.
STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning COlTIlTIission
FROM: Brandon Miles, Assistant Planner
RE: Proposed Sign Code Changes
DATE: November 8,2004
ATTACH1\1ENTS: A: Aerial Photo ofFt. Dent Park
B: Aerial'Photo of Foster Golf Course
C: Aerial Photo of Museum of Flight
D: -Example of Campus style banners
Introduction
The City has been approached by the new Starfire soccer facility at Ft. Dent Park, Foster
Golf Course and the MUSeUlTI of Flight to amend the City's existing sign code to allow
signage for public facilities.
The existing City Sign Code was adopted in the early 1980s. The original sign code was
developed to regulate business parks and commercial development in the TUC environment.
Subsequent annexations, City acquisitions, and City capital projects have presented unique
circumstances where particular business that do not fit into the City's sign code regulations.
There are three specific examples:
Starfire Soccer and Softball Facility
Ft. Dent Park is zoned Low Density Residential (LDR) with a public recreation overlay.
Surrounding land uses include office, commercial, the Green River, railroad tracks, and
industrial uses. Access to the park is via Ft. Dent Way, a private drive which intersects with
Interurban Avenue South.
Starfire has approached the City in regards to the installation of scoreboards, the use of
smaller promotional signs within the facility, and the desire to have an animated sign.
Scoreboards
Background
Under the existing code, scoreboards are considered signs and subject to the limitations
placed on signs under TMC Title 19. Existing regulations limit a public facility in a
residential zone to one sign (freestanding or wall) for each frontage with a total sign area of
60 square feet and a maximum height of 16 feet. The existing scoreboard at Foster High
1
School was pennitted using this code requirement. This however limits any future signage
at the stadium, such as a freestanding sign along S. 144th Street or a \vall sign.
The Starfire Facility is comprised of seven soccer fields, one of \vhich is the large stadium
field and the operators of the facility would like to have a scoreboard at each field. It should
be noted that there are two existing scoreboards at the two softball fields when the City
acquired the park from King County.
Starfire has asked that scoreboard not be considered signs since they do not advertise a
business and that they not be considered animated signs.
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Existing scoreboard at Starfire Soccer Facility.
Staff s Recommendation
Modify TMC 19.08 and provide the following definition:
Scoreboard is a visual communication device used to display the time, score, period,
quarters, innings, downs, yards to go, and any other information directly relevant to a
sporting event.
2
Modify TMC 19.08.030 to note that scoreboards shall not be considered anilnated signs.
Modify TMC 19.12.050 as follovvs: 1) exempt scoreboards frOln having to obtain a sign
permit or counting towards the facilities sign allowance 2) Scoreboards Inust meet the
illumination and brightness limitations for electronic signs set forth in TMC 19.12.035 3)
Scoreboards will only be permitted on sports fields 4) Scoreboards must be oriented tovvards
the sport's field and must not be legible trom the public right ofvvay or adjacent properties.
Possible Altemative( s)
1. Do nothing; facilities that want to install scoreboards \vould have to operate under
the existing sign regu1atidns. Electronic scoreboards would not be permitted due to
the fact that they change content more than once every 24 hours and therefore would
. be considered animated signs.
Starfire has also proposed using a portion of the scoreboard to show videos before, during,
and after events at the facility. Since the videos would depict moving images they would
not be permitted.
Staff s Recommendation
Amend TMC Title 19 to permit scoreboards to have video displays that change message
more trequently than once every twenty-four hours for public facilities located in a Public
Recreation Overlay.
Such signs would be permitted subject to a Type II decision with certain limitations such as:
1. The signs are only permitted at a sports stadium that has a seating capacity of 2,000
persons or greater.
2. Only one sign will be permitted per field.
3. The video display can only be used one hour before the scheduled event, during the
event, and one hour after the scheduled event.
4. The size of the sign will be allowed to increase as the distance trom residential uses
Increases.
5. The sign must comply with the illumination and brightness level set forth in TMC
19.12.035.
6. The sign must face away from the public right of ways, public trails, and water
bodies. The animated sign must have minimal visibility trom adjacent properties,
public right of way, and public trails.
7. The sign must meet the setback requirement ofTMC 19.32.070, which is a foot of
setback from all property lines for every foot in height.
8. The sign shall meet the height standards ofTMC 19.32.140 (D) (3). This vvould
permit the height of the sign to be no greater than 35 feet, but in no case shall the
animated sign be taller than the stadium vvhere it is being used.
3
Possible Alten1ative( s)
Retain the City's existing regulations regarding animated signage. Starfire .would not be
permitted to install an animated sign.
Signs (Pennanent and Temporary within Public Facilities)
Background
Many public facilities tend to have smaller signs .within the facility noting sponsorship of
fields, sponsorship of scoreboards, floor tiles recognizing sponsorship, and other types of
sign age which would differ from. other commercial businesses.
The purpose of the sign code is to establish regulations to minimize clutter and distraction
and maintain the orderly appearance of the City and the City streets. The City's sign code
does not regulate signs that are installed within buildings such as Southcenter Mall because
they are not visible from City streets or from adjacent properties.
The proposed sponsorship signs at Starfire would also not be visible from the public right of
way or from adjacent properties. The signs would be directed towards patrons that are
already on the site.
Starfire's proposal only includes temporary signs and would require that such signs be pre-
approved by the Director of Community Development or the Parks Director.
4
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These small signs are located at a softball facility in Thurston County. The signs are located along the
outfield fence. The signs are visible from the adjacent public street, however, they cannot easily be read.
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These two signs are located at the same facility in Thurston County. These are intended to be viewed from
the adjacent public street.
Staff's Recommendation
Under TMC 19.12.050 clarify that non-animated signs within Public Facilities in the Public
Recreation Overlay District that are not oriented towards the public right-of-way or adjacent
properties and are not legible from the public right of way or adjacent properties are exempt
from the City's sign regulations. Signs that are placed on Park property would require the
pennission from the Parks and Recreation Director, yet a pennit from the Department of
Community Development would not be required.
Possible Altemative(s)
1. Do nothing, require that Starfire work under the existing sign code.
2. Require the creation of a master sign plan program for large facilities such as Ft.
Dent Park. The master sign plan would be approved by the Director of DCD or the
Planning Commission. This option may prove burdensome to the applicant and the
City for signs that will not be visible from the public right ofvvay or ITom adjacent
properties.
6
Foster Golf Course
Earlier this year the ne\v golf house at Foster Golf course opened to the public (See
Attachment B: Aerial Photo of Foster Golf Course). The ne\v golf house features a full
service restaurant and pro shop. As part of the improveIllents to the site, a ne\v freestanding
sign was installed along Interurban Avenue.
Permanent Signs located at Public Facilities in Public Recreation Overlay Districts
Foster Golf Course is currently zoned LDR with a Public Recreation Overlay. Under TMC
19.32, the total number of signs ~or a public facility within a residential district is based
upon the number of street frontages that border the facility. Foster Golf Course is only
bordered by Interurban Avenue and is permitted to have only one sign. However,
surrounding commercial business on Interurban Avenue are permitted to have a total of two
SIgnS.
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Foster Golf Course only fronts on one public street, thus is only pemitted one sign. The above
freestanding sign was installed in spring of2004.
Staff's Recommendation
7
Permit public facilities vvithin the Public Recreation Overlay to have two signs. The size of
vvall signs shall be limited to the area restrictions in Table 1 in TMC 19.32.140 and the size
of the freestanding size shall be limited to the table in TMC 19.32.140 (D) (c).
Possible Altemative( s)
1. Retain the City's existing sign regulations regarding signage vvithin residential
districts.
King County Museum of Flight
The Museum of Flight, located on East Marginal Way South, was annexed into the City as
part of the Fire District One annexation in 1989 (See Attachment C: Aerial Photo of
Museum of Flight). -Unlike many commercial businesses in the City, the Museum of Flight
is a destination use not a pass by use. Additionally, the Museum of Flight has estimated that
up to 70 percent of their patrons are first time users.
The Museum of Flight has requested signage that is typical of signage found at Museums
and College campus (See Attachment D: Examples of Proposed Signage)
Staff's Recommendation
Provide a definition of museum under TMC 19.08. Amend TMC 19.24 to allow museums
to have two temporary event banners that do not ~xceed six percent of the wall area where
the sign will be placed or 500 square feet which ever is less. The event banners would not
have to meet the time limitations set forth in TMC 19.24.010. A permit would be required.
Possible Altemative( s)
1. Require that all signage at the Museum of Flight comply with the City's existing
sign code regulations.
Conclusion
Staff would like the input of the Planning Commission regarding the proposed changes to
the City's sign code. If a general consensus exists after tonight's meeting, staff will prepare
a draft ordinance and schedule a public hearing for the Planning Commission's next
meeting.
8
Foster Golf Course Aerial Photo
Fort Dent Park Aerial Photo
Flight Museum Aerial Photo
Museum of Flight Photo
illJill~~u
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, AMENDING TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE 19,
"SIGN CODE," ADDING NEW REGULATIONS REGARDING SIGNAGE
IN COMMERCIAL ZO~ES, INDUSTRIAL ZONES, RESIDENTIAL ZONES,
SCOREBOARDS, AND SPORTS STADIUMS; REPEALING ORDINANCE
NOS. 1274, 1617, 1770 ~67-80, 1773, 1857 ~1-6, 1892, 1913, 2004, AND 2019;
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; and
WHEREAS, the City of Tukwila desires to update the Sign Code language to
address signage in certain zones where signs are typically not found; and
WHEREAS, the City of Tukwila desires to increase safety and minimize driver
distractions; and
WHEREAS, the City of Tukwila 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; and
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; and
WHEREAS, on , the Tukwila City Council, following adequate public
notice, held a public hearing to receive testimony concerning the recommendations of
the Planning Commission;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. TMC Title 19, "Sign Code," is hereby amended to read as follows:
19.08.010
19.08.020
19.08.030
19.08.040
19.08.050
19.08.051
19.08.055
19.08.060
19.08.070
DEFINITIONS:
Generally
Access Road
Animated Sign
Area and Background Area
Billboard
Commercial Zones
Electronic Sign
Exposed Building Face
Freestanding Sign
Zoning Code Amendments BM/kn 4/8/05
Page 1
19.08.080
19.08.090
19.08.100
19.08.105
19.08,110
19.08.115
19.08.120
19.08.125
19.08.130
19.08.140
19.08.150
19.08.160
19.08.170
19.08.172
19.08.175
19.08.180
19.08.190
19.08.192
19.08.195
19.08.200
19.08.210
19.08.215
19.08.217
19.08.218
19.08.220
19.08.230
19.08.240
19,08.250
19.08.260
Freeway Interchange Business Sign
Glare
Height
Holographic Display
Hotel
Industrial Zones
Internal Information Sign
Museums
Off-Premises Sign
On-Premises Sign
Permanent Sign
Planned Shopping Center (Mall)
Portable Sign
Premises
PU,blic Facility
Real Estate Sign
Real Estate Directional Sign
- Residential Zones
Scoreboard
Shared Directional Sign
Sign
Special Permission Sign
Sports Field
Sports Stadium
Temporary Sign
Traffic Markings
Traffic Sign
Uniform Building Code
Unique Sign
19.08.010 Generally
Special words used in this code shall be defined as set out in this chapter.
19.08.020 Access Road
"Access road" means a driveway, as defined in TMC 18.06.015.
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 con-
tract, 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.
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.
19.08.050 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.
19.08.052 Commercial Zones
Zoning Code Amendments BM/kn 4/8/05
Page 2
"Commercial Zones" means any area of the Citv zoned 0, MUG, RCC, NCC, RC, RCtvI,
TUC, C/LI, 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.
19.08.060 Exposed Building Face
"Exposed building face" 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,
19.08.070Freestanding Sign
"Freestanding sign" means a sign installed on a permanent foundation, not attached to a
building or other structure.
19.08.080Freeway Interchange Business
"Freeway interchange 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 intersection. 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, lodging or service station facilities that serve the traveling
public. No wall-mounted sign can be classified as a IIfreeway interchange business'l
sign.
19.08.090Glare
"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.
19.08.100Height
"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.
19.08.105Holographic Display
"Holographic display" means any display that creates a three-dimensional image through
projection.
19.08.110Hotel
"Hotel" means a building or portion thereof designed or used as a transient rental
facility as defined in TMC 18.06.440.
19.08.115 Industrial Zones
"Industrial Zones" means any area of the City zoned LI, HI, MIC/L, and MIC/H.
19.08,120Internal Information Sign
"Internal information sign" means a sign which gives directional information or identifies
specific use areas and which is necessary to maintain the orderly internal use of the
Zoning Code Amendments BM/kn 4/8/05
Page 3
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.
19.08.125 Museums
"Museums" means a non-profit institution where works of artistic, historical, and/or
scientific value are cared for, kept, and displayed.
19.08.1300ff-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.
19.08.1400n-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 preinises, name of the business, person, firm 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,
19.08.150Permanent 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.
19.08.160Planned Shopping Center (Mall)
"Planned shopping center (mall)" means a multiple-tenant retail development as defined
in TMC 18.06.750 (Shopping center, planned).
19.08.170Portable Sign
"Portable sign" means a sign which is not permanently affixed to a structure and is
designed for or capable of movement, except those signs explicitly designed for people
to carryon their persons or permanently affixed to motor vehicles operating in their
normal course of business.
19.08.172Premises
"Premises" means one or more contiguous lots of record (exclusive of any right-of-way),
owned or managed by the same individual or entity.
19.08.175Public 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.
19.08.180Real Estate Sign
"Real estate sign" means a sign displayed for a limited time and offering the immediate
premises for sale, rent or lease.
19.08.190Real 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.
19.08.192 Residential Zones
"Residential Zones" means any area of the City zoned LDR, MDR, or HDR.
19.08.195 Scoreboards
II Scoreboards II means a visual communication device used to display the time, score,
period, quarters, innings, downs, yards to go, and any other information directly
relevant to a sporting event.
Zoning Code Amendments BM/Im 4/8/05
Page 4
19.08.200Shared Directional Sign
"Shared directional sign" means a directional sign erected and maintained by several
adjacent businesses as a single sign.
19.08.210Sign
"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.
19.08.215Special Permission Sign
"Special Pennission Sign II 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.
19.08,217 Sports Field
II Sports Fieldll means an outdoor area solely 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 permanent structure or complex that either partially or
completely encloses a sports field and provides fixed seating, permanent restroom
facilities, and permanent concession stands.
19.08.220Temporary 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.
19.08.230Traffic 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.
19.08.240Traffic 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.
19.03.250Uniform Building Code
"Uniform Building Code" means the currently adopted edition of thc Uniform Building
Codc, T~4C Chapter 16.01.
19.08.260Unique 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:
19.12.010
19.12.020
19.12.030
Required
Application Procedure
Application for Sign Permit - Contents
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19.12.050
19.12.060
19.12.070
19.12.080
19.12.090
19.12.110
19.12.120
19.12.130
Exceptions - Permits Not Required
Criteria for Granting Variances
Fees - Permanent Signs
Fees - Temporary Signs
Fees - Work Started Prior to Permit Issuance
:tvIaintenance and Removal of Signs
Special Permit Signs and Displays
Revocation
19.12,010Required
A. No sign which is legible from the public right of way, adjacent properties, or
adjacent businesses shall hereafter be erected} re-erected} constructed or altered} except
as provided by this code and a permit 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 T:tvIC 18.104.110 shall be exempt from the requirements of this title.
. B. A separat~ permit is ~eq~ired 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.
19.12.020 Application Procedure
Application for a sign permit shall be made in writing upon forms furnished by the
Department of Community Development. Sign permits other than special permission
signs and unique signs shall be a Type 1 decision} provided that the denial of approval
for a Type 1 sign permit shall be appealable to the Planning Commission pursuant to
the provisions of TMC 18.108.020 for appeals of Type 2 decisions. Special permission
signs shall be a Type 2 decision and shall be processed pursuant to the terms of TMC
18.108.040 and .050. Unique signs shall be a Type 3 decision and shall be processed
pursuant to the terms of TMC 18.108.030. 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.
19.12.030 Application for Sign Permit - Contents
When applying for a sign permit} a simple illustration showing how the proposed sign
shall look on the site shall be submitted. A vicinity map at a scale of 1 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 1
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.
19.12.050Exceptions - 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 compliance 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 hours will cause the sign to be considered to be
an animated sign under TMC 19.08.030 and is prohibited under TMC 19.28.010(3).
2. Repainting of an existing sign when there is no other alteration.
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3. Temporary signs and decorations customary for special holidays, such as
Independence Day and Christmas, erected entirely on private property.
4. Real Estate 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 seller 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 locq.ted 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 atfixed permanently 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.
11. Signs of utilities indicating danger and service or safety information.
12. A maximum of four internal information signs as defined in TMC 19.08.120
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 lawful 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 unlawful 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 permitted for the business. Such permanent
window signs shall require permits.
15. Signs of community service and fraternal organizations, including notation of
place and date of regular activity meetings.
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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 Overlay. 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 adjacent properties. If the sign is to have a video display, 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.
19.12.060Criteria for Granting Variances
A. Variance review shall be a Type 3 permit pursuant to 18.104.010. The Hearing
Examiner may grant a variance to the requirements of this code only if the applicant
demonstrates compliance with the following criteria:
1. 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 permitted 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.
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 the 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.
19.12.070Fees - Permanent Signs
An application fee shall 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.
19.12.080Fees - Temporary Signs
An application fee shall be paid at the time of application for a permit to erect or install
temporary signs, banners, streamers, and other special permit 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.
19.12.090Fees - 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 shall be doubled, but the
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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.
19.12.110Maintenance 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 all 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.
19.12.120Speci~1 Perm.!t 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 of the permit shall not exceed 7 days. Searchlight beams shall
not flash against any building or sweep an arc greater than 45 degrees from vertical.
19.12.130 Revocation
The Planning Director is authorized and empowered to revoke any permit upon failure
of the holder thereof to comply with any provision of this code.
Sections:
I - DESIGN
19.16.010 Conformance to Building Code Required
19.16.020 Exposed Surfaces - Appearance
19.16.030 Glare Prevention Required
19.16.035 Illumination and Brightness Levels of Signs
19.16.040 Wall-Mounted Signs
19.16.050 Signs Near Intersections or Visible from Vehicles
II - CONSTRUCTION
19.16.060 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
I - DESIGN
19.16.010Conformance to Building Code Required
Signs and structures shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the
requirements for structures in the Uniform Building Code, TMC Chapter 16.04.
19.16.020Exposed 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.
19.16.030Glare 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.
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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 of the 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.
19.16.040Wall-Mounted Signs
No part of a wall-mounted sign shall extend above the top of the wall to which the
signing is attached.
19.16.0S0Signs 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.
II - CONSTRUCTION
19.16.060Supports to Conform to Building Code
Sign or sign structures shall bc placed in or upon prhatc propcrty and shall be securely
built, constructed and erected in accordance TNith the requirements of the adopted
edition of the Uniform Building Codc, T~4C Chapter 16.04..
Signs and structures shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the
requirements for structures in the Washington State Building Code, TMC Title 16,
19,16.070Materials
Materials of construction for signs and sign structures shall be the quality and grade as
specified for buildings in the adopted edition of the Uniform Building Code. In all
signs and sign structures the materials and details of construction shalt in the absence
of specified requirements, conform with the following:
1. Structural steel shall be of such quality as to conform with the Uniform
Building Code standards. Secondary members in contact with or directly supporting
the display surface may be formed of light gauge steet provided such members are
designed in accordance with the specifications of the design of light gauge steel as
specified in the Uniform 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.
19.16.080Electrical 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.
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19.16.090Combustible 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 federat State and municipal building and fire
regulations and codes, and be certified by a nationally recognized testing organization
such as the American Gas Association.
19.24.010
19.24.020
19.24.030
19.24.040
19.24.050
19,24.060
Chapter 19.24
TEMPORARY SIGNS
Sections:
Area Restrictions - Time Limit
Cloth Signs - Support
Cloth Signs - Projection
Cloth Signs - Clearance
Real Estate Directional Signs
Sign Identification
19.24.010 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.
19.24.020 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.
19.24.030Cloth Signs - Projection
Cloth signs may extend over public property. Such signs, when extended over a public
right-of-way, shall maintain a minimum clearance of 20 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.
19.24.040Cloth 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.
19.24.050Real 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.
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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, whichever is
less. The temporary banner must be removed at the conclusion of the event it is
advertising.
19.24.060Sign Identification
All temporary signs shall have the sign permit number placed at the upper left-hand
corner by the permittee.
Chapter 19.32
REGULATIONS BASED ON LAND USE CATEGORIES
Sections:
I - 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
III - MULTIPLE FAMILY 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 Family Development
IV - COMMERCIAL 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
VI - SERVICE STATIONS
19.32.160 Surrounded by Commercial or Industrial Zones
VII - INDUSTRIAL ZONES
19.32.170 Permitted Signs - Height
VIII - FREEWAY INTERCHANGE BUSINESSES
19.32.180 Permitted Signs - Height and Area Allowance
IX - HOTELS
19.32.190 Signs Mounted on Hotel Building Faces
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.
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19.32.020Shared Directional Signs
In conunercial 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.
19.32.030Signs 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.
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 15 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 those 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.
19.32.050Exposed 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.
19.32.060Freestanding 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.
19.32.070Freestanding 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 IIfreeway
interchange businesses II 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.
II SINCLE F/~~.llLY ZONE-S
II. RESIDENTIAL ZONES
19.32.080Home 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 1-1/2 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
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Page 13
signs shall use indirect, concealed sources, or backlighted letters on an opaque
background,
C. Each multiple-family development may have one sign for the purpose of
naming or otherwise identifying the project. 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 of the 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 opaque cabinet or non-illuminated
opaque sign panels.
B. Churches and approT:ed conditional uses may have one sign for each street upon
which the property fronts; signs shall be loeo.ted in the setback area or upon the facc of
thc building. Total area of sign or signs shall not exceed 32 square feet; mmcimum
height J.bu"':e ground, ,,,Then in setback areJ., shall not (J(ceed fiT:e feet, and bJ.se of sign
shall be located in a landscap~d area. Bulletin boards and readerboards are coroidered
signs. IllumirLated signs shall use indirect, concealed sources, or backlighted letters on
an opaque background. ..^Jl signs in this subsection must be approved as a Type 2
decision.
C. Public facilities may haT:e one sign for each street upon 'which the property fronts;
signs shall be located in the setback area or upon the face of the building. Total area of
sign or signs shJ.ll not exceed 60 square feet per face; mmdmum height aboYle ground,
when in setback area, shall not exceed 16 feet; minimum setback shJ.ll be eight feet; and
base of sign shall be located in a landscaped area. Bulletin boards and readerboards are
considered signs. Illuminated signs shall uee indirect, concealed sources, or back
lighted letters on an opaque background. lJl signs in this subeection must be approved
as a Type 2 decision.
III MlJT~ TIPLE F f~MIL Y ZONES
19.32.0901^lhere Signs V/ill Face Single Family Zones or Parks
Home occapatioro may be identified by a single, non illuminated ''.Tall plaque of not
more than 1 1 / 2 square feet.
19.32.100\^.7here Signs ~Nill Face Othcr :M:ultiple Family, Commercial or Industrial Zones
..^~. Home oceupatioro may be identified by a single 'wall plaque not more than h"w
equare feet; plaque may be illuminated from ITont.
B. Churches and approved conditional useG may have one sign for each street upon
TNhich the property fronts; signs ohall be located in the setback area or upon the face of
the building. Total area of sign or signs shall not eJ(eeed 61 square feet; mmcimum
height above ground, v{hen in setback area, shall not exceed ten feet, ar.d base of sign
shall be located in a landscaped area. Bulletin boards and readerboards are considered
signs. Illuminated signs shall use indirect, concealed sources, or bacldighted letters on
an opaque background. ..^Jl signs in this subsection must be approved as a Type 2
decision.
C. Public facilities may haT:e one sign for each street upon which the property fronts;
signs sh::lll be located irL the setback area or upon the face of the building. Total area of
sign or signs shall not exceed 60 square feet per face; maximum height aboT:c ground,
\':hen in setback aIea, shall not e)(ceed 16 feet; minimum setback shall be eight feet; and
base of sign shall be located in a landscaped area. Bulletin boards and readerboards arc
considered signs. Illuminated signs shall use indirect, concealed sources, or back
lighted letters on an opaque background. ..\11 signs in this subsection must be approved
as a Type 2 decision.
19.32.11011ultiplc Family DeT:elopment
Each multiple family deTlelopment may have one sign for the purpose of naming or
otherwise idcntifying the project. Total area of the sign faces shall not exceed 32 square
feet; maximum height aboT.Te average grade, ':Nhen in setback area, shall not exceed fi....Te
feet, and base of the sign shall be located in landscaped area. Illuminated signs shull be
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front lighted from conccaled sources or back lighted channel letters or bacl~ li;;hted cut
out letters framed by an opaque cabinet or non illuminated opaque sign panelo.
IV - COMMERCIAL ZONES
19.32.120V\'here Signs '''fill Face or ~^~but Single Family ZoneD
~^~. Home occupations may be identified by a single, non illuminated ,,;all plaque of
not more than 1 1/2 square feet.
B. Churches and approved conditionu.l uses may haTle onc sign for each street upon
'which the property fronts; signs shall be located in the setback area or upon the face of
the building. Total area of sign or signs shall not e"ceed 32 square feet; maximum
height above ground, ,;,{hen in setback area, sha.ll not exceed tiT'!e feet, and bm3e of sign
shall be located in a landscaped area. Bulletin boards ar.d rea:derbocrrds arc considered
signs, Illuminated cigns shall use indirect, concealed sources, or back lighted letters on
an opaque background. i\ll, signs in this subsection must be approved as a Type 2
decision.
C. Public fa:cilities may haye one sign for each street upon ,,'{hich the property fronts;
. signs shall be located in the setback area or upon the fdce of the building. Total area of
sign or signs shall not exceed 60 square feet per face; maximum height above ground,
when in setback area, shall not e"ceed 16 feet; minimum setback shall be eight feet; and
base of sign shall be located in a landscaped area. Bulletin boards and readerboards arc
considered signs. Illuminated signs shall use indirect, concealed sources, or back
lighted letters on an opaque background. .^JI signs IT. thio ouboection must be approT'!ed
as a Type 2 decision.
D. J'Jl freestanding signs must be approTled as a Type 2 decioion. Permits may be
approT'!ed if the effect of the proposed sign would not contribute to a cluttered or
confusing condition nor "muld generally degrade the physical appearance or character
of the street or neighborhood.
E. Non rolling equipmcnt and merchandise muot be displayed from 1Nithin buildingo or
Tl.:ithin glass fronted caoeo, e)(cept in connection 'with temporary commerciat induotrial
or public service displays.
19.32.13O"f.^lhere Signs '^lill Face or ~'\but 11ultiple Fu.mily Zones or Public Facilities
~\. Home occupations may be identified
by a oingle i\'all plaque not more than tv;o square feet; plaque may be illuminated from
~
B. Churches and approved conditional uses may haT,'e one sign for each street upon
'which the property fronts; signs shall be located in the setback area or upon the face of
thc building. Total area of sign or signs shall not cxceed 61 square feet; maximum
height above ground, ",:hen in setback area shall not e)(ceed ten feet, and base of sign
shall be located in a landscaped Mea. Bulletin boardo and readerboards arc considered
signs. Illuminated signs shall use indirect, concealed sources, or backlighted letters on
an opaque background. ~^JI signs in this suboection must be approT'!cd as a Type 2
decision.
C. Public facilities may haTle one sigJ;1 for each otreet upon -which the property fronts;
oigns shall be located in the setback area or upon the face of the building. Total area of
sign or signs shall not exceed 60 square feet per face; maximum height above ground,
T,':hen in setback area, shall not exceed 16 feet; minimum setback shall be eight feet; and
base of sign shall be located in a landscaped area. Bulletin boards and readerboards arc
considered signs. Illuminated signs shall use indirect, concealed sources, or back
lighted letters on an opaque background. Jill signs in this subsection must be approved
as a Type 2 decision.
D. fJI freeotanding signs must be approved as a Type 2 decision. Permits may be
approved if the effect of the proposed sign would not contribute to a cluttered or
confusing condition nor "would generally degrade the physical appearance or ch::rracter
of the otreet or neighborhood.
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E. Non rolling cquipmcnt and merchandisc must be displayed from within the
buildings or 'within glass fronted GWCS cxccpt in conncction ~Nith tcmporary
commcrciat industrial or public servicc displays.
19.32.110Commcrcial Zoncs '^1hcrc Signs '^liII Facc or /~but Othcr COllli11crcial or
Industrial Zones, E3CcCpt GS Pro~:ided in Scction 19.32.150 through Section 19.32.190,
Incl uci~:e
19.32.140 Signs Located Outside of Residential Zones, Except as Provided in Section
19.32.150 through Section 19.32.190, Inclusive
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 sign,
provided:
1. That the business .ras more than 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
in Table 1.
Table 1
I Area (L X H) - Sq. Ft. Exposed Total Permitted Area of the Sign -
Building Face Square Feet
0-500 0.05 x exposed building face in sq. ft.
(E.B.F,)
501-1500 25 + 0.04 x (E.B.F. - 500)
1501-3000 65 + 0.03 x (E.B.F. - 1500)
3001-5000 110 + 0.02 x (E.B.F. - 3000)
Over 5000 150 square feet (maximum)
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 of the
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 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.
6. Each tenant may also display a room number/letter 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.
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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 motorist.
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 from 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:
- ,
1. One 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
freestanding sign shall be as follows:
Street Frontage Sign Area/Sign
Up to 200 ft. 50 sq. ft. with total of 100 sq. ft. for all sides
200 to 400 ft. 75 sq. ft. with total of 150 sq. ft. for all sides
Over 400 ft. 100 sq. ft. with total of 200 sq. ft. for 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 permitted freestanding sign shall be limited in height to 35 feet, except
signs determined to be a IIfreeway interchange business II 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.
V - PLANNED SHOPPING CENTERS" (MALL)
19.32.150Building 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, unless approved as a
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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.
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.
VI - SERVICE STATIONS
19.32.160Surrounded 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:
1. One 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.
VII - INDUSTRIAL ZONES
19.32.170Permitted 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.
VIII - FREEWAY INTERCHANGE BUSINESSES
19.32.180Permitted 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 logos, text or other
advertisements, for the freeway interchange sign may be located below 35 feet on the
freeway interchange business sign.
IX - HOTELS
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19.32.190Signs 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 1 of TMC 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 I, 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 1 of TMC 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 TMCChapter 19.22, respectively.
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:
1. 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 one scoreboard with video display is permitted per field.
4. The video display can only be used one hour before the scheduled event,
during the event, and one hour after the scheduled event.
5. The entire scoreboard with video display cannot exceed 200 square feet.
6. The scoreboard with video display must face away from the public right-
of-way, public trails, adjacent properties, and water bodies. The video
display must have minimal visibility from adjacent properties, public
rights-of-way, and public trails.
7. The scoreboard with video display must meet the setbacks requirement of
TMC 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 of TMC 19.32.140 (D) (3).
10. Such scoreboards with video. display shall be permitted as a Type II
decision. The following information must be submitted for approval of
the Type II decision.
a. An application form provided by the City of Tukwila;
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 sign, property lines, and adjacent public rights of
way;
d. Elevations of the proposed sign drawn to an appropriate scale;
e. If the sign requires structural engineering, the appropriate
engineering documents.
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Section 2. Repealer. Ordinance Nos, 1274, 1617, 1770 g67-80, 1773, 1857 g1-6, 1892,
1913,2004, and 2019 are hereby repealed.
Section 3. Severability. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or
phrase of this ordinance or its application to any person or situation should be held to
be invalid or unconstitutional for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the
remaining portions of this ordinance or its application to any other person or situation.
Section 4.. Effective Date. This ordinance or a summary thereof shall be published
in the official newspaper of the City, and shall take effect and be in full force five days
after passage and publication as provided by law.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
at a Regular Meeting thereof this day of .2005.
ATTEST! AUTHENTICATED:
Steven M. rvIullet, Mayor
. Jane E. Cantu, CMC, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY:
Filed with the City Clerk:
Passed by the City Council:
Published:
Effective Date:
Ordinance Number:
Office of the City Attorney
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