HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOW 2010-08-09 Item 3B - Ordinance - Sign Code1 CAS NUMBER: 10-073
SPONSOR'S
SUMMARY
REVIEWED BY
EXPENDITURE RIEQUIRED
Fund Source: N/A
Comments: N/A
MTG. DATE
6/28/10
7/12/10
MTG. DATE
6/28/10
7/12/10
8/9/10
COW Mt
n Utilities Cmte
Meeting Date
06/28/10
07/12/10
08/09/10
08/16/10
COUNCIL AGENDA SYNOPSIS
Prepared by
CA &P Cmte
n Arts Comm.
Imttals
Mayor revie
re
ITEM INFORMATION
1 ORIGINAL AGENDA DATE: JUNE 28, 2010
AGENDA ITEM TITLE Review of the Planning Commission Recommended Draft Sign Code
CATEGORY Discussion Motion Resolution Ordinance Bid Award
Mtg Date 8/9/10 Mtg Date Mtg Date Mtg Date 8/16/10 Mtg Date Mtg Date 6/28/10 Mtg Date
SPONSOR Council Mayor Adm Svcs DCD Finance Fire n Legal P&R Police PW/
In 2007, the City Council identified a need to update the City's sign code because only
piecemeal changes had been made since it was adopted in 1982. The City Council formed
a Sign Code Advisory Committee to assist in rewriting the sign code. The work of the
Committee has been reviewed by the Planning Commission and the Planning Commission
Recommended Draft Sign Code is ready for review and consideration by the City Council.
F &S Cmte
Parks Comm.
Council review
0j.
RECORD OF COUNCIL ACTION
Forward to 7/12/10 Committee of the Whole
Forward to 8/9/10 Committee of the Whole
ITEM No
3 6.
Public Hearing Other
n Transportation Cmte
Planning Comm.
DATE: 6/14/10 CAP, 6/28/10 COW
RECOMMENDATIONS:
SPONSOR /ADMIN Department of Community Development
COMMITTEE No Recommendation on adoption, forward to C.O.W for discussion
COST IMPACT FUND SOURCE
AMOUNT BUDGETED
$0
APPROPRIATION REQUIRED
ATTACHMENTS
Informational Memorandum dated June 22, 2010
Ordinance in draft form Sign Code Comparison Matrix
Minutes from the Community Affairs and Parks Committee meeting of 06/14/10
Legislative History Index
Informational Memorandum dated 7/2/10, with matrix attachments
Informational Memorandum dated 7/26/10
Ordinance in draft form, with attachments
Informational Memos Matrix attachments from 6/28 and 7/12 Council meetings
(Please bring your Sign Code binders)
10
TO:
FROM: Nora Gierloff, Deputy DCD Director
DATE: July 26, 2010
SUBJECT: Sign Code Update
ISSUE
Continue deliberations on the Planning Commission Recommended Draft Sign Code
BACKGROUND
At the June 28, 2010 Committee of the Whole Meeting, staff provided an overview of the Planning
Commission Recommended Draft Sign Code (hereinafter "Draft Sign Code). After Staff's presentation,
the City Council conducted a public hearing and received both written and oral testimony on the Draft
Sign Code. At the July 12, 2010 Committee of the Whole meeting staff provided a matrix of the
substantive comments on the Draft Sign Code with a staff response and recommended action. Dunng the
July 12 meeting, the City Council discussed the public comments and staff recommendations. Following
this discussion, the City Council provided input to staff on changes that they wanted to incorporate into
the Draft Sign Code.
The following matrix fists proposed substantive changes that have been made to the Draft Sign Code
which is included at Attachment "A The changes reflect the input provided by the City Council at the
July 12"' meeting as well as additional changes made by DCD Staff and the City Attorney's Office. There
have also been some small technical corrections which are not listed in the matrix, but can clearly be seen
in the strikeout/underlined version of the Code provided in the Council packet.
Issue
1. Additional Whereas
Clause
2. Display of Flags
TMC 19.12.030 (12)
3. Notice of Complete
Application
TMC 19.12.060(D)
City of Tukwila
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
Mayor Haggerton
Committee of the Whole
Proposed Clianee to Draft Sien Code_ Discussions
WHEREAS. the City desires to adopt Some current sign regulations
sign regulations that are easily
understood by the City's business and
residents and to that end wishes to
consolidate all sign regulations under
one Title; and
Display of up to three flags, each on
individual flag poles, per premise.
Content of the flags is not regulated.
Display of a flag showing the emblem
governmental unit.
An application shall be conclusively
Department's issuance of a notice of
complete application as provided in
can be found in TMC 11.
Having the sign regulations split
between two Titles is not user
friendly. This whereas clause
clarifies that the City's goal to
consolidate all sign regulations
under one title.
Change is being made to reflect
language proposed by Planning
Commission.
Language is redundant and not
needed.
Jim Haggerton, Mayor
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
4. Sign Code Violations
TMC 19.12.170
5. Lighting of signs in
Residential Zones.
TMC 19.20.030(B)(6)
6. Dynamic Signs in
Residential Zones.
TMC 19.20.030(D)(1)(d)
7. Number of Permanent
Freestanding Signs in
Commercial /Industrial
Zones, Changes to Table 1
TMC 19 20.040 (1) Table
1
8. Placement of
Permanent Freestanding
Signs in Commercial
/Industrial Zones, Changes
to Table 1
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expiration of the time periods for
issuance of such a notice as provided
in Subsections B or C hereof.
It is the responsibility of a property
owner and /or business owner to ensure
the provisions of this code are met on
any real property they own or control.
The City shall issue a warning to any
property owner where illegal
permanent or temporary signs have
been installed or where permanent or
temporary signs have been installed
without first obtaining a permit. Each
day that an unlawful sign remains will
be deemed a separate violation and
shall be subject to the issuance of fines
of not more than $500 per day per
violation. If subsequent violations
occur within the next 18 months, to the
followingftnes:
1.2nd violation $200
2.3rd violator $409
3. ^.th violation $800
The sign may only use indirect down
lighting methods except for dynamic
signs as allowed under TMC 19.20.030
(D)
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. Maximum brightness
levels for electronic signs shall not
exceed .3 foot candle above ambient
light conditions. measured 100 feet
from the face.
Two if -here are two or more vehicular
street access points.
One for every 400 feet of linear street
frontage. Each sign must be located
near a vehicular street access point.
Only one sign per access point.
Staff initiated change to reflect
concerns raised by
Councilmember Ekberg. Instead
of increasing fines, a flat fine has
been included. The actual fine
amount will be determined by the
Director on a case by case basis
given the unique situation of the
violation.
This language was proposed by
the NW Sign Council. The
language helps prevent spill over
effect from signs in residential
zones.
This language was proposed by
the NW Sign Council. The
language helps prevent spill over
effect from signs in residential
zones.
Staff initiated change which
Council supported at July 12`
meeting. Clarifies that two signs
are allowed outright for certain
properties regardless if multiple
access points are located on the
property.
Staff initiated change which
Council supported at July 12
meeting. Removes requirement
for signs to be located near
access points. Also removes
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 3
TMC 19.20 040 (1) Table
1
9. Signs for corner
properties or properties
with multiple street
frontages.
TMC 19.20.040 (2)
10. Undeveloped Rights
of Way
TMC 19.20.040(6)
11. Signs in Underground
Utility Easements and
Corridors
TMC 19.20.040(7)
12. Awning Face Signs
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Special Comer Properties or Properties
with Multiple Street Frontages. A
property that borders on more than one
public street, but has less than 800 total
feet of linear frontage, is permitted to
have one monument scan per street
frontage if the following criteria are
met:
a. The property has as at least
200 feet of frontage on each public
street where a sign will be placed:
b. Each public street provides
direct access to the property: and
c. For each separate street
frontage Table 1 shall be used to
determine the design standards for anv
proposed monument sign.
eveloped Rights of Way. In some
areas of the City such as Interurban
Avenue where large undeveloped
rights of way are present, the City
shall allow these areas to be considered
the pr raise of the adjacent
properties and will allow monument
ccc areas. The
property owner must secure peal sieri
from the n.-.Jner of th right of way and
also agree to maintain the non
along with his /her adjacent property
The sign setback will be calculated
the street.
Easements and Corridors. Where
corridors have be n established, no
signs shall be located in the earn-dor-Of
easement, unless expressly specific
d by the entity
holding the easement. It is the
responsibility of all applicants to know
the location of all easements on their
premise
Awning face signs are only peiiiiitted
limit on number of signs near
access points.
Staff initiated change which
Council supported at July 12
meeting. This issue was noted by
Jerome Baruffi at the Council
meeting on June 28 This will
allow some properties to have
additional freestanding signs
even if they do not meet the 800
feet linear frontage requirement
found in Table 1.
City Attorney recommended
change. The issue of signs in
undeveloped rights of way is
already addressed by the
definition of premise.
City Attorney recommended
change. The language is
redundant and does not need to
be included in the Sign Code.
Placement of signs in easements
is covered by easement
agreements between the property
owners and individual having the
rights to the easement.
Staff initiated change which
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 4
TMC 19 20.050 (B)(2)
13. Parking Incentive
Signage
TMC 19.20.050 (H)
14. Opt Out Chapter
TMC 19.22
15. Signage for Essential
Public Facilities
TMC 19.32.020 (2)
16. Maximum Size of
flush mounted wall signs
under the Master Sign
Program
TMC 19 32.060 (A)(2)
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on awnings located over a public
entrance to a building. The sign area
may be distributed among multiple
awnings on an exposed building face.
No change in actual language, moved
from Master Sign Program to Incentive
Sign Section of Chapter 19.20.
Entire new chapter added to provide an
"opt" out provision for properties
within the Tukwila Urban Center. The
Chapter applies to TM 19.20 which
provides regulations for permanent
signage. The "Opt Out" Chapter will
allow signage consistent with the
current sign code. A property that
chooses to opt out cannot benefit from
the new sign code (i.e. obtaining
additional freestanding signage or
incentive signage allowed under TMC
19.20. A request to opt out must be
provided to the City within one year
from the effective date of this Chapter.
Essential Public Facilities within
commercial or industrial zones. Uses
that provide emergency services (i.c.,
public safety may be jeopardized by
's ggi3
Code.
Increase in the area of a flush mounted
building sign allowed per Section
19.20.050.A shall be allowed as
follows:
a. For premises un to 85 acres
in size. the flush mounted building
sign can be increased to six percent of
the exposed building face. un to a
maximum of 250 square feet.
b. For premises 85 acres and
Council supported at July 12"'
meeting. Will clarify that signs
on awnings can extend on
multiple awnings on the same
facade.
Staff initiated change which
Council supported at July 12
meeting. Moving the language
from the Master Sign Program
will allow all parking garages to
qualify for the incentive signage,
not just those located on
properties eligible for the master
sign program. All existing
parking garages in the City
would be eligible for this
signage.
Council initiated change at the
July 12` meeting. Chapter will
address the concerns raised by
Bob Schofield. Note that it will
apply to the entire Tukwila
Urban Center as the Southcenter
Parkway corridor is not
differentiated enough to provide
a logical distinction for sign
purposes.
Staff initiated change which
Council supported at July 12"'
meeting. Change was
recommended by Pam Carter at
the June 28 Council meeting.
This change will allow all
essential public facilities in
commercial and industrial zones
to qualify for the Master Sign
Program.
Council initiated change at the
July 12 meeting. Proposed
change was recommended by the
Westfield Southcenter. The
change will allow sites over 85
acres to have flush mounted signs
of 6% or 500 square feet which
ever is less. The Council
expressed concern about having
large wall signs near the street.
Staff is recommending that no
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 5
17. Billboard, Public
Messaging
TMC 19.38.040 (4)(b)
18. Billboards, Rate of
Change
TMC 19.38 040 (4)(g)(4)
19, Billboard, Street Tree
Pruning
TMC 19.38.040 (5)
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over in size, the flush mounted,
building sign can be increased up to
six percent of the exposed building,
face up to a maximum of 500 square
feet, provided that no flush mounted
building sign with an area greater than
250 square feet is located within 250
feet of a public street.
Area of an individual face shall not
exceed 500 square feet. The area of a
face can be increased to up to 672
square feet if the billboard operator
agrees to make the billboard available
for public service announcements and
emergency alerts. Public service
announcements shall include, but not
be limited to, advertising for civic
events such as Tukwila Days and the
Backyard Wildlife Fair. To qualify for
the billboard area increase a billboard
provider must provide a total of 28
days of message time for civic events.
If a digital display is proposed, the rate
of change for the sign shall not exceed
a frequency of more than once every 8
seconds. every minute. The Director
of DCD and the Director of PW shall
have the authority to modify the rate of
change if th applicant provides
sufficient documentation that a more
safety risk to adjacent roadways. The
documentation provided -by the
install the billboard shall pay the full
cost for the third party review. Jn no
case shall the DCD and PW Director
permit a rate of change that is more
frequent than once every six seconds.
Billboard Placement. Street Tree
Pruning
Upon application to place a billboard
within a designed receiving area, the
City and the applicant shall work to
determine a billboard location that will
not be visually obscured either now or
in the future by surrounding street
trees. If placement of the billboard
cannot be accomplished which will
wall sign with an area greater
than 250 square feet be permitted
closer than 250 feet to a public
street.
Staff initiated change which
Council supported at July 12`
meeting. Will provide a
minimum duration in which
billboard companies have to
make their signs available for the
advertising of civic events.
Staff initiated change which
Council supported at July 12
meeting. Will make the rate of
change consistent with WSDOT
standards.
Staff initiated change which
Council supported at July 12
meeting. The change will allow
billboard owners to prune City
street trees, if necessary.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 6
20. Signs in ROW
21. Attachments
DISCUSSION
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avoid conflicts between the billboard
and current or future street trees
pruning of the street trees is permitted,
provided:
a. The applicant obtains a street use
permit from the Citv's Public Works
Department. The purpose of the
permit is to regulate the manner by
which the trees will be pruned, such as
lane closures. sidewalk closures, etc.
b. All pruning is done by the applicant
and all cost is borne entirely by the
applicant.
c. All pruning activities are supervised
by a certified Arborist and all pruning
complies with ANSI A300 as currently
written or as may be amended.
d. Only those street trees on or
adiacent to the property where the
billboard is located are eligible for
pruning,
e. In the event of death of the tree(s)
as a result of the pruning activities. the
applicant shall be responsible for
paving the landscape value of the
tree(s) as determined by a certified
arborist or landscaping architect.
Section 11. Signs Prohibited within the
Right -of -Way. All regulations
regarding the placement of signs
within the City's Right of Way found
in TMC Section 11.24.070 (B) are
hereby repealed.
Two maps showing the billboard
receiving areas outlined in TMC
19.08.067 have been added as
attachments D and E to the ordinance.
Staff initiated change. Cleans up
TMC to place sign regulations
under one Title.
Staff initiated change, provides a
good visual reference tool for
both staff and applicants. Similar
maps had been provided to the
City Council as part of the Sign
Code Update binder (See Tab,
"PC Written Comments
The goal of tonight's meeting is to complete the review of the Draft Sign Code and to ensure that all edits
and modifications proposed by the City Council have been reflected in the Code. After tonight's meeting,
staff will prepare a final ordinance for the Council consider at the August 16 Regular Council Meeting.
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 7
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the changes reflected in the strikeout/underlined version of the Draft Sign Code,
included as Attachment "A be accepted by the City Council. Staff proposes bringing the final ordinance
back to the City Council on August 16 for possible action by the Council. If Council adopts the sign
code at the August 16 meeting, staff would also suggest that the current moratorium on the placement of
certain signs within the City be repealed.
ATTACHMENTS
A. Ordinance in strikeout/underlme format.
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AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, UPDATING AND EXPANDING THE SIGN CODE REGARDING
THE PLACEMENT, DISPLAY AND USE OF SIGNS AND OTHER VISUAL
COMMUNICATION DEVICES WITHIN THE CITY, AS CODIFIED AT TUKWILA
MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE 19; REPEALING ORDINANCE NOS. 1274, 1617, 1649,
1770 (PART), 1773, 1838 §17 ,1857,1892,1913,1964,1982,1995 §1(part) 2004, 2019, 2096,
AND 2126; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Tukwila recognizes that signs are an important
component of the built environment and assist in way finding, advertising and personal
expression for Tukwila businesses, property owners and residents; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to provide various alternatives for the display of
signage and other visual communication devices; and
WHEREAS, regulation of signage is needed in order to preserve and protect the public
welfare, preserve and enhance the appearance of the built environment, control visual clutter,
protect private and public property, and ensure the orderly movement of motorized and non
motorized forms of transportation, and
WHEREAS, most of the City's current sign regulations were adopted in 1982 and are
reflective of a smaller, less dense, and less complex built environment than exists today; and
WHEREAS, the City's residential, commercial and industrial areas continue to grow, evolve
and change. Since the Sign Code was adopted in 1982, the City has annexed Tukwila
International Boulevard, the Duwamish Industrial Area and Tukwila South. Additionally, the
vision for the Urban Center has changed and is now focused toward a mixed -use environment
with retail, residential and light industrial uses; and
WHEREAS, in 2007, recognizing that a new Sign Code was needed to reflect the current
vision for the City, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 1656, which created a Sign Code
Advisory Committee to assist in the creation of a new Sign Code; and
WHEREAS, the Sign Code Advisory Committee was comprised of Tukwila
Councilmembers, a Planning Commission member, citizens and representatives from the City's
business community; and
WHEREAS, the Sign Code Advisory Committee met a total of six times to discuss signage
within the City; and
WHEREAS, City staff conducted an extensive public outreach campaign to inform
residents, businesses and property owners of the Sign Code update, including presentations to
civic groups, meetings with interested businesses and property owners, and meetings with sign
contractors and other interested parties; and
WHEREAS, the recommendations of the Sign Code Advisory Committee were presented to
the City Council and Planning Commission at a joint meeting on January 29, 2009; and
WHEREAS, in the fall of 2009, the Planning Commission held four work sessions to review
the recommendations of the Sign Code Advisory Committee; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to adopt sign regulations that are easily understood by the
City's businesses and residents and to that end wishes to consolidate all sign regulations under
one Title; and
WHEREAS, on March 11, 2010, as required by the Growth Management Act, the City filed
notice with the Washington State Department of Commerce that the City intended to adopt a
new Sign Code; and
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WHEREAS, on March 16, 2010, the Director of Community Development determined that
the proposed Title 19 does not have a probable significant adverse impact on the environment
and issued a Determination of Non Significance; and
WHEREAS, on March 25, 2010, following public notice, the Planning Commission held a
public hearing to receive testimony regarding the adoption of a new Sign Code; and
WHEREAS, on April 22, 2010, the Planning Commission passed a motion recommending
the City Council adopt a new Sign Code; and
WHEREAS, on June 28, 2010, following public notice, the City Council held a public hearing
to receive testimony regarding the new Sign Code;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. TMC Chapter 19.04, "General Provisions," hereby reads as follows:
19.04.010 Title. This title shall be hereinafter known as the "Tukwila Sign and Visual
Communication Code." It may be cited as such and will be hereinafter referred to as the "Sign
Code."
19.04.020 Intent. The purpose of this code is to enhance the City's aesthetic character; to
protect the public health, safety and welfare; and to increase the effectiveness of visual
communication in the City by providing opportunities for Tukwila businesses, residents and
property owners to display signage. The regulations for signs have the following specific
objectives:
1. To have signs that attract and invite rather than demand the public's attention along
the City's streetscapes.
2. To have streets that appear orderly and safe, because clutter is minimized.
3. To have signs that enhance the visual environment of the City, because they are in
harmony with building architecture and landscape design.
4. To allow business identification that is not unduly hindered by regulatory standards.
5. To ensure typical communication and civic discussion is fostered in the City's
residential neighborhoods.
6. To allow signs that utilize high quality construction materials, fine architectural
detailing, harmonious proportionality, and that serve a multi-modal environment.
19.04.030 Liability for Damages. Nothing in this code shall relieve any person, corporation,
firm or entity from responsibility for damages to any other person suffering physical injury or
damage to property as a result of the installation, display, maintenance or removal of any sign
authorized under this code. The City and its employees, agents and officials shall assume no
liability for such injury or damage resulting from the authorization of any permit or inspection
implementing the provisions of this code.
19.04.040 Severability Clause. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or
phrase of this code or its application to any person or situation should be held invalid or
unconstitutional for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or
unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity of constitutionality of the remaining portions of
this ordinance or its application to any other person or situation.
19.40.050 Third Party Review and Special Inspections.
A. In the event an application to install a sign requires a level of expert review the City
cannot complete in house, the City shall have the right to have a third party assist in the review.
In such cases where a third party review is required, the applicant shall reimburse the City for
the full cost of the third party review.
B. If the installation of a sign requires inspection services that due to complexity or
specialty cannot be completed by City staff, the applicant shall be responsible for coordinating
and paying a private firm to complete such inspections. Copies of any inspection reports shall
be submitted to the City in order to demonstrate the inspections have been completed.
19.40.060 Substitution. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, noncommercial
copy may be substituted for commercial copy on any lawful sign structure.
19.40.070 Conflict with Other Adopted Environmental Regulations. Nothing in this title
shall be interpreted to allow a violation of the City's Sensitive Area Regulations or Shoreline
Regulations. In cases of conflict between the Sign Code and the City's adopted Sensitive Area
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Regulations and /or Shoreline Regulations, the requirements of the Sensitive Area Regulations
and /or Shoreline Regulations shall prevail.
Section 2. TMC Chapter 19.08, "Definitions," hereby reads as follows:
19.08.010 Generally. As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings
set forth in this section, unless a different meaning is clearly indicated by the context in which
the term is used. Terms not defined herein shall be interpreted using the meaning they have in
common usage and to give this chapter its most reasonable application.
19.08.020 "Abandoned Sign" means any sign that advertises a business, lessor, owner,
product, service or activity that has not been located on the premises where the sign is
displayed for 60 days or more or a sign cabinet where the face has been broken or missing for 30
days or more.
19.08.030 "Awning" means a fabric- covered structure mounted on the face of a building
above a window, entrance or storefront opening, providing weather protection.
19.08.040 "Atoning/Canopy Side Sign" means a sign applied to or mounted on the side of an
awning or canopy, contained completely within the end area and oriented perpendicular to the
building wall surface.
19.08.050 "Awning/Canopy Sign, Under" means a sign suspended from an awning, canopy or
arcade, but does not extend beyond the horizontal limits of the awning, canopy or arcade
structure.
19.08.055 "Awning Face Sign" means a sign applied to the main face of an awning, including
sloped and vertical surfaces.
19.08.060 "Billboard" means an off premise, freestanding sign or visual communication
device that has a sign area of at least 150 square feet in message area per face. Freeway
interchange signs are not included in this definition.
19.08.065 "Building Mounted Sign" means a sign permanently attached to a building and
includes flush mounted signs, awning signs, projecting signs, etc.
19.08.067 "Billboard Receiving Areas" are those areas of the City along South 180th Street
zoned as Commercial /Light Industrial, those properties south of South 180th Street along West
Valley Highway zoned as Commercial /Light Industrial, all properties located along Boeing
Access Road; and those properties along East Marginal Way, north of Boeing Access Road for
which permits for new billboards may be issued if the criteria of this Title are satisfied.
Attachment D and E are mans that show the billboard receiving areas listed with this definition.
19.08.069 "Billboard Sending Areas" are those areas of the City that are not designated as
billboard receiving areas from which billboards existing as of the time of the enactment of these
regulations, must be removed before a permit for a new billboard may be issued by the City
19.08.070 "Cabinet Sign" means a geometrically- shaped sign with a translucent face, backlit
by an internal light source.
19.08.072 "Canopy" means a rigid structure projecting from the face of a building above a
window, entrance or storefront opening, providing weather protection.
19.08.074 "Canopy Edge Sign" means a sign mounted along or above the edge of a canopy
and oriented parallel to the building wall.
19.08.076 "Channel Letters" mean three dimensional, individually -cut letters or figures
affixed to a structure.
19.08.080 "Commercial Real Estate Signs" are signs located in commercial and industrial zones
are used to denote a property, building or tenant space available for sale, lease or rental.
19.08.082 "Commercial Zones" means any area of the City zoned 0, MUO, RCC, NCC, RC,
RCM, TUC, C /LI, TVS or TSO.
19.08.084 "Corner Projecting Sign" means a tall, vertically- oriented sign that projects from a
building corner and is structurally integrated into the building.
19.08.090 "Department" means the Department of Community Development or subsequent
organizational successor
19.08.091 "Digital Billboard" means an off premise sign using digital technology that
produces static images which are changed remotely. Digital billboards may not scroll, flash or
feature motion pictures. A digital billboard may be internally or externally illuminated. Digital
billboards shall contain static messages only and shall not meet the definition of a dynamic sign
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except that the static image may change every ten seconds. Each static message shall not include
flashing, scintillating lighting or the varying of light color or intensity
19.08.092 "Director" means the Director of Community Development or his /her designee.
19.08.094 "Dynamic Sign" is any sign or part of a sign that appears to move or change due to
any method other than physically removing and replacing the sign or its components, whether
the apparent movement or change is in the display, the sign structure itself, or in any other
component of the sign. This includes a display that incorporates a technology or method
allowing the sign face to change the image without having to physically or mechanically replace
the sign face or its components, including a display that includes any rotating panels, LED
lights manipulated through digital input, "digital ink" or displays in which the display or sign
appears to move more frequently than once every 24 hours.
19.08.100 "Electronic Sign" means a sign containing a display that cart be changed by
electrical, electronic or computerized process.
19.08.110 "Exposed Building Face" means that portion of the building exterior wall fronting a
tenant space as seen in elevation together with one -half the vertical distance between eaves and
ridge of a pitched roof above it, used for sign area calculation purposes.
19.08.120 "Flush Mounted Building Sign" means a sign located on and parallel to a building
wall.
19.08.130 "Freestanding Sign" means a sign supported by one or more uprights, poles or
braces installed on a permanent foundation, not attached to a building or other structure.
19.08.140 "Freeway Interchange Sign" means a freestanding sign at least 100 feet in height, for
a business located within a radius of 1,000 feet from a 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 motorists on the adjacent freeway.
19.08.145 "Height, Freestanding Sign" means the distance measured vertically from the lowest
point of elevation of the ground within five feet from said sign to the top of the sign, as depicted
in Attachment C, attached hereto.
19.08.150 "Industrial Zone" means any area of the City zoned LI, HI, MIC /L or MIC /H.
19.08.155 "Institutional Use" means any non residential use located within a residential zone
that provides services to the surrounding neighborhood or residential community. Common
institutional uses include, but are not limited to, fire stations, public or private schools, religious
institutions, public parks, libraries and other similar type uses.
19.08.160 "Landmark Business" is an entity that occupies at least 60,000 square feet of
building space on a premise that contains at least five separate businesses or uses.
19.08.165 "Master Sign Program" means a coordinated signage scheme for all signs on a
premise that may include deviations from the standard sign requirements.
19.08.170 "Monument Sign" means a sign supported by at least two posts or columns or with
a base that extends at least 75 percent of the sign panel length. Monument signs may also
consist of painted text or channel letters mounted on a freestanding seating wall or retaining
wall where the total height of the structure meets the limitations of this code.
19.08.180 "Multi Family Complex" means any structure or group of structures within a
residential zone that contains at least five dwelling units.
19.08.185 "Off- Premise Signage" means a permanent sign not located on the premises of the
use or activity to which the sign pertains.
19.08.190 "Parking Structure Incentive Sign" means a flush mounted building sign permitted
on parking structures and intended for periodic changes in copy
19.08.195 "Permanent Sign" means any sign erected without a restriction on the time period
allowed for its display as specified in this code.
19.08.200 "Pole Banner" means a fabric banner sign attached to a street or parking lot light
pole.
19.08.210 "Portable Sign" means a sign not permanently affixed to a structure and is
designed for or capable of being relocated, except those signs explicitly designed for people to
carry on their persons or those permanently affixed to motor vehicles operating in their normal
course of business.
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19.08.215 "Projecting Sign" means a permanent sign perpendicular to the building facade
and suspended from a bracket or armature or cantilevered to the building.
19.08.220 "Premises" means one or more contiguous lots of record not separated by right -of-
way and owned or managed by the same individual or entity
19.08.225 "Residential Zone" means any area of the City zoned LDR, MDR or HDR.
19.08.230 "Sight Distance Triangle," as depicted in Attachment B.
19.08.235 "Sign" means materials placed or constructed, or Iight projected, that (a) convey a
message or image and (b) are used to inform or attract the attention of the public, but not
including any lawful display of merchandise. Some examples of "signs" are materials or lights
meeting the definition of the preceding sentence and which are commonly referred to as signs,
placards, A- boards, posters, murals, diagrams, banners, flags, or projected slides, images or
holograms. The scope of the term "sign" does not depend on the content of the message or
image conveyed.
19.08.240 "Sign Area" means the entire area within a continuous perimeter, composed of
straight lines or arcs, enclosing all elements of the sign copy, including text, logo and designs,
together with any frame or other material or color forming an integral part of the display or
used to differentiate the sign from the background against which it is placed. The area of a
three dimensional sign shall be the surface area of a geometric figure such as sphere, rectangle
or cylinder that completely contains the sign element.
19.08.245 "Standard Billboard" means a billboard of at least 150 square feet in which copy is
physically changed and is not considered a digital sign under Section 19.08.091.
19.08.247 "Tukwila Urban Center" is defined as all current and future real properties that are
zoned Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) by the City's official Zonimt Map kept on file with the
Department of Community Development.
19.08.250 "Temporary Sign" is a sign that is only permitted to be displayed for a limited
period of time specified by this code after which it must be removed.
19.08.260 "Tukwila International Boulevard Corridor" means that area of the City subject to the
City's Tukwila International Boulevard Plan and depicted in Zoning Code Figure 18 -9
19.08.265 "Window Sign" is a sign applied to a window or mounted or suspended directly
behind a window
19.08.270 "Window Sign, Temporary," is a sign applied directly to a window or mounted or
suspended directly behind a window and is designed, constructed, and intended for display on
real property for not more than 30 days per calendar quarter for any particular sign.
19.08.280 "Wireless Connnunications Facility" means any tower, antennas, ancillary structure
or facility, or related equipment or component thereof, used for the transmission of radio
frequency signals through electromagnetic energy for the purpose of providing phone, internet,
video, information services, specialized mobile radio, paging, wireless digital data transmission,
broadband, unlicensed spectrum service utilizing part 15 devices and other similar services that
currently exist or that may in the future be developed.
Section 3. TMC Chapter 19.12, "Permits," hereby reads as follows:
19.12.010 Administration. The Director of Community Development (hereinafter
"Director or his or her designee shall have the authority to administer this code. The Director
may, if needed, develop administrative rules to resolve any conflicts arising out of the
administration of the Sign Code. Any rules shall not be in conflict with this code and shall be
consistent with Section 19.04.020, "Intent," and the legislative record used to create this code.
Sign permits are issued by the Director unless otherwise noted in this code. The Director may
require the assistance of other departments in administering this code.
19.12.020 Sign Permits Required.
A. A sign discernible from any public right -of -way, adjacent premise or an adjacent off -site
business shall not be erected, re- erected, constructed or altered, including changes to the sign
panel, face or copy, without a sign permit, except as provided by this code.
B. The installation of some signage within the City may require a permit from the
Washington State Department of Transportation. It is an applicant's responsibility to obtain all
required permits from the appropriate government agency
C. The issuance of a sign permit shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of,
any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other ordinance of the City Permits
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presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances
of the City shall not be valid. The issuance of a permit based on construction documents and
other data shall not prevent the Director from requiring the correction of errors in the
construction documents and other data.
19.12.030 Exceptions Sign Permits Not Required. The following shall not require issuance
of permits by the City. The exception is only from the need to obtain a permit and shall not be
construed as relief from compliance with other requirements of this title. The provisions of this
section shall be narrowly construed so as to effectuate the purposes of this title, as enumerated
in Section 19.04.020.
1. Repainting of an existing sign when there is no other alteration. This exception shall
not be interpreted to allow the changing of copy or face changes on an existing sign.
2. Temporary signs and decorations customary for holidays, such as Independence
Day and Thanksgiving, erected on private property. Signs may only contain non commercial
speech.
3 Temporary window signs, subject to the limitations of Section 19.24.080.
4. Traffic signs and /or markings installed by the City of Tukwila, King County or
Washington State Department of Transportation for the purpose of regulating, warning or
directing traffic. Signs may be installed within the right -of -way or on private property, with the
permission of the property owner. All signs installed under this exception shall meet the
requirements of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways,
current edition, published by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
5. Signs typically installed on utilities and wireless communication facilities denoting
danger or other safety information, including emergency contact information.
6. Political campaign signs, subject to the limitations of Section 19.24.090.
7 Temporary signs installed at City parks. All signs shall be approved by the Tukwila
Director of Parks and Recreation and shall meet the requirements of this code.
8. Land use notice boards per Section 18.104.110.
9 Text or graphics on umbrellas located in outdoor seating or plaza areas.
10. Up to four directional signs per premises where there is a need to direct vehicular
traffic. Freestanding signs may be up to three feet in height and two square feet per face or a
total of four square feet for all faces. Flush- mounted building signs may be up to three square
feet in size.
11. The following exceptions are specific to properties developed with residential uses
in residential zones:
a. Each residential property shall be permitted one 1.5- square -foot, building
mounted plaque; and
b. Each residential property shall be permitted one 6- square -foot banner or rigid
sign that is temporary in nature; and
c. Temporary incidental signs may be displayed with no restrictions from sunset on
a Friday (or the day preceding a designated holiday) until sunset on the following Sunday (or
the Monday following a Sunday if the Monday is a designated holiday). No individual sign
may exceed six square feet in size. It is intended that this subsection shall apply to garage sale
and real estate "open house" signs, however content of the sign is not restricted.
12. Display of up to three flats, each on individual flag poles, ncr premise. Content of
the flags is not reeulated.Display-ef a flag sho' thc. cmblei11 or insignia of a nation or other•
geve1 1inelntal-ianit:
19.12.040 Prohibited Signs and Devices. A sign, sign style or device is prohibited by this
code and subject to removal if it is not specifically permitted by this code. This includes, but is
not limited to, the following examples:
1. Signs adjacent to State roads that do not comply with Washington State Department
of Transportation regulations;
2. Any sign using the word "stop," "look" or "danger" or any other word, symbol,
character or color, that might be confusing to traffic or detract from any legal traffic control
device;
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3. Any sign, symbol, object or device located within City or State rights -of -way or City
easement without City and /or State approval;
4. Any sign, symbol, object or device located on a traffic control device, City light pole
or other City-owned facility, even if such facility is located on private property, with the
exception of Section 19.12.030.4;
5. Any sign, symbol, object or device that is placed or hung from a tree, bush, shrub or
other vegetation;
6. Strings of pennants, banners or streamers, searchlights, clusters of flags, wind
animated objects, balloons and similar devices except as provided under Section 19.24.060;
7. The use of portable signs or other similar devices, unless permitted under Section
19.24.070;
8. Dynamic signs, except those types specifically permitted under this code; and
9. Abandoned signs.
19.12.050 Party-of- Record. Any person who submits comments in writing on an application
during the public comment period, requests in writing copies of notice of any public hearing on
an application, requests in writing copies of any decision on the application, testifies on an
application at a public hearing, or who otherwise indicates in writing a desire to be informed of
the status of the application, shall be a party-of- record. The applicant shall always be
considered a party-of- record.
19.12.060 Notice of Complete Application.
A. Within 28 days following receipt of a permit application, the Department shall mail,
email or provide in person written notice to the applicant that the application is either complete
or incomplete. If the application is incomplete, the notice shall state with specificity what is
necessary to make the application complete.
B. An application shall be deemed complete under this section if the Department does not
provide written or electronic (email) notice to the applicant that the application is incomplete
within the 28 -day period, as provided herein.
C. If the application is incomplete and the applicant submits the additional information
requested by the Department, the Department shall mail, email or provide in person written
notice to the applicant, within 14 days following the receipt of the additional information,
whether the application is now complete or what further information is necessary to make the
application complete. An application shall be deemed complete if the Department does not
provide written or electronic (email) notice to the applicant within the 14 -day period that the
application is incomplete.
D. An application hal --be conclusivoly deemed to be comple'_c an the Departmenth
issuance of a -ietice of-- eerrnplete-application as- pfevideel E asee- t-iens A oi- G- hereof, or the
eiipirzntiorn- ef- t1ie- -tinne per4ods -for issrrauee- ef- &uth -a netiet>- as-pre led --in- Subsections -B--er C
kanasfi
D.R: The Department may cancel an incomplete application if the applicant fails to submit
the additional information listed in the notice of incompleteness within 90 days of the date of
the notice.
EP The Department may extend this cancellation date up to 120 additional days if the
applicant submits a written or electronic (email) request for an extension prior to cancellation.
The request must clearly demonstrate the delay is due to circumstances beyond the applicant's
control or unusual circumstances not typically faced by other applicants and that a good faith
effort has been made to provide the requested materials.
FG.The fact that an application is deemed complete pursuant to this section shall not under
any circumstances prevent the City from subsequently requesting additional information or
studies regarding any aspect of a proposed project that are deemed necessary to a complete
review of the proposed project.
19.12.070 Notice of Application.
A. For sign permit variances and Board of Architectural Review (BAR) reviewed Master
Sign Program applications a Notice of Application shall be provided to property owners and
tenants within 500 feet of the subject site, departments and agencies with jurisdiction and any
parties -of- record.
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B. A Notice of Application shall be issued by the Department within 14 days following the
Department's determination that the application is complete.
C. All required Notices of Application shall contain:
1. the file number;
2. the name of the applicant and the owner of the property, if different than the
applicant;
3. a description of the sign(s), the location, a list of the permits included in the
application and the location where the application and any environmental documents or studies
can be reviewed,
4. a site plan;
5. a statement establishing a public comment period, which shall be 14 days following
the date of the Not of Application. Comment period for projects requiring a Shoreline
Substantial Development Permit shall be either 20 or 30 days, as specified in RCW 90.58.140;
6. the procedures and deadline for filing comments, requesting notice of any required
hearings and any appeal rights. Any person may comment in writing or via email on the
application during the public comment period and may participate by submitting either written
or oral testimony, or both, at any hearings and may request a copy of the decision once made.
The Notice shall specify any appeal procedures that apply to the permit application;
7. the date, time, place and type of hearing, if applicable and scheduled at the time of
notice; and
8. the identification of other permits not included in the application, to the extent
known by the Department.
D Additional information is required by RCW 90.58 for Notices of Application for projects
that require a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit.
E. Except for a Determination of Significance, the Department shall not issue a threshold
determination pursuant to RCW 43.21C and the Department shall not issue a decision or a
recommendation on the application until the expiration of the public comment period on the
Notice of Application.
F Email notification may substitute for mailings when the relevant party agrees to this
form of communication. A party-of- record may request and the City shall honor any request to
only receive notification via U.S. mail.
G. Notice required per this code may be combined with land use notifications for
concurrent actions required under Title 18.
H. Mailed notice shall be deemed satisfactory despite the failure of one or more persons to
receive mailed notice.
19.12.080 Notice of Hearing.
A. At least 14 days prior to any public hearings on sign permit variances, BAR reviewed
Master Sign Program applications or appeal of a sign decision, the Department shall issue a
Notice of Hearing by mail to property owners and tenants within 500 feet of the subject site,
departments and agencies with jurisdiction and any parties -of- record.
B. A Notice of Hearing shall include:
1. the file number;
2. the name of the applicant;
3. a description of the sign(s), the location, a list of the permits included in the
application and the location where the application, the staff report and any environmental
documents or studies can be reviewed;
4. a site plan;
5. the date, time, place and type of hearing;
6. the phone number of the Departrent and the name of the staff person who can
provide additional information on the application and the hearing;
7. the Director shall have the discretion to include additional information in the Notice
of Hearing if the Director determines such information would increase public awareness or
understanding of the proposed project; and
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8. email notification may substitute for mailings when the relevant party agrees to this
form of communication. A party-of- record may request and the City shall honor any request to
only receive notification via U.S. mail.
19.12.090 Notice of Decision. The Department shall provide written notice in a timely
manner of the final decision on permit applications. Such notice shall identify the procedures
for administrative appeals, if any. Notice shall be delivered by either first class mail, email or in
person to the applicant, agencies with jurisdiction and all parties -of- record.
19.12.100 Time Periods for Permit Issuance.
A. The City strives to make final decisions on all sign permit applications within 120 days
from the date the applicant is notified by the Department that the application is complete. The
following periods shall be excluded from this 120 -day period.
1. Any period of time during which the applicant has been requested by any City
department, agency or hearing body with jurisdiction over some aspect of the application to
correct plans, perform required studies or provide additional information. The period shall be
calculated from the date the applicant is notified of the need for additional information until the
earlier of:
a. the date the department, agency or hearing body determines whether the
additional information satisfies the request; or
b. 14 days after the date the information has been provided to the department,
agency or hearing body If the department, agency or hearing body determines the action by the
applicant is insufficient, it shall notify the applicant of the deficiencies and the procedures of
this section shall apply as if a new request for information had been made. If the applicant fails
to provide a requested correction or additional information within 90 days of the request, the
Department may cancel the application due to inactivity
2. Any additional time period for administrative review agreed upon by the
Department and the applicant.
3. Any additional time period agreed upon by the Department, the applicant and any
parties to an appeal.
B. The time limits established in this section shall not apply if a project permit application
requires an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan or a development regulation.
C. If a final decision cannot be issued within the time limits established by this section, the
Department shall provide written notice of this fact to the project applicant. The notice shall
include a statement of explanation as to why the time limits have not been met and an
estimated date for issuance of the notice of final decision.
D A modification to project plans occurring before issuance of the permit shall be deemed
a new application for the purpose of the 120 -day permit clock when such modification would
result in a substantial change in a project's review requirements, as determined by the
Department.
19.12.110 Date of Decision. All notices issued pursuant to this title shall be deemed to have
been issued on the date on which they are deposited in the U.S. mail or transmitted via
electronic mail by the Department.
19.12.120 Appeals. All appeals of decisions issued under this code must be filed with the
Department within 14 days of the date of decision. At the time an appeal is filed, the appealing
party shall pay an appeal fee pursuant to the current fee schedule. Appeals will be heard by the
Hearing Examiner who shall conduct a closed- record appeal and consider only the information
originally presented to the Director. No administrative appeal is permitted for sign variances
which shall go directly to King County Superior Court.
19.12.130 Notice of Appeals.
A. Every Notice of Appeal shall contain:
1. the name of the appealing party;
2. the address and phone number of the appealing party, and if the appealing party is a
corporation, association or other group, the address and phone number of a contact person
authorized to receive notices on the appealing party's behalf; and
3. a statement identifying the decision being appealed and the alleged errors in that
decision. The Notice of Appeal shall state specific errors of fact or errors in application of the
law in the decision being appealed, the harm suffered or anticipated by the appellant, and the
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relief sought. The scope of the appeal shall be limited to matters or issues raised in the Notice of
Appeal.
B. The Notice of Appeal shall be distributed by the Department to the office of the Hearing
Examiner.
19.12.140 Dismissal of Untimely Appeals. On its own motion or on the motion of a party,
the Hearing Examiner shall dismiss an appeal for failure to file the appeal with the Department
prior to the end of the appeal period.
19.12.150 Sign Permit Expiration for Permanent Signs. Sign permits are valid for 180 days
from the date of issuance. The applicant must request a final inspection or submit a request for
extension to the City prior to the permit expiration date or the permit will expire. The Director
may grant one extension of not more than 30 days if the request is submitted prior to permit
expiration.
19.12.160 Sign Code Interpretation.
A. The Director shall, upon written request, issue a Sign Code Interpretation to resolve an
issue arising out of the administration of this code to a specific sign proposal. Any Sign Code
Interpretation issued by the Director shall be in keeping with the intent of this code as specified
in Section 19.04.020, the legislative documents utilized to write this code, the Zoning Code, the
Comprehensive Plan, and any other City regulation or policy such as, but not limited to, the
Walk and Roll Plan and the Shoreline Master Plan.
B. Any aggrieved party may file an appeal of the Director's code interpretation following
the process specified in Sections 19 12.120 and 19.12.130.,
19.12.170 Sign Code Violations.
A. It is the responsibility of a property owner and /or business owner to ensure the
provisions of this code are met on any real property they own or control. The City shall issue a
warning to any property owner where illegal permanent or temporary signs have been installed
or where permanent or temporary signs have been installed without first obtaining a permit.
Each day that an unlawful sign remains will be deemed a separate violation and shall be subject
to the issuance of fines of not more than $500 per day per violation.
B. If the City undertakes legal proceedings to enforce the terms of this code under the
authority of Chapter 8.45, the City shall have the right to recover its costs and expenses
(including attorney fees, expert witness fees and costs) and /or a monetary penalty, pursuant to
this code.
C. The City shall have the right to remove any signs illegally placed within the City's right
of -way, easements under City control or property owned and /or controlled by the City No
duty is created to require the City to remove such signs. The City shall retain all signs removed
from the City's right -of -way for ten days. The owner of the signs may retrieve the signs from
the City and pay a $50- per -sign fee to the City to recover a portion of the City's cost in removing
the illegal signs. Once the ten -day period has expired, the City shall have the right to dispose of
the signs.
D. Any violation of this code shall be considered a public nuisance.
19.12.180 Business License and Affidavit Requirement.
A. Any sign contractor who does business within the City must first obtain a business
license from the City As part of the business license registration, the contractor shall sign an
affidavit acknowledging they have read the City's Sign Code, specifically
1. Section 19.12.020, "Sign Permits Required."
2. Chapter 19.36, "Non- Conforming Provisions."
B. Any sign contractor who possesses a City business license and violates the requirements
of this code shall be subject to fines and penalties under Chapter 8.45 The City shall also revoke
the business license of the sign contractor and the City shall not permit a new business license
to be issued for at least one year, per Section 5.04.110.
C. Any sign contractor found operating in the City without a Tukwila business license shall
be subject to a fine not less than $1,000. Additionally, the City shall report the violation to the
State for further enforcement action. Any contractor who has a business license revoked or has
fines issued shall have the right to appeal such actions to the Hearing Examiner, pursuant to
Section 5.04.112.
Section 4. TMC Chapter 19.16, "Construction, Maintenance and Removal of Signs," hereby
reads as follows:
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19.16.010 Construction.
A. All signs within the City shall comply with the structural requirements of the
Washington State Building Code.
B. All signs within the City shall comply with the electrical requirements of the City's
adopted Electrical Code.
19.16.020 Structural Review. The City's Building Official may require that proposed
building- mounted signs that weigh 400 pounds or more, monument signs 50 square feet or
more in face area and freestanding signs 15 feet or more in height undergo structural review in
order to preserve the public health, safety or welfare. When structural review is required, the
applicant shall pay the full amount of the City's cost to conduct such review Construction
details that describe either the proposed foundation (for freestanding signs) or wall brackets
(for building- mounted signs) must be submitted with the sign permit application. Structural
calculations for the sign shall be prepared by a licensed Washington State structural engineer.
19.16.030 Required Inspections for Permanent Signs.
A. When a sign triggers structural review, per Section 19.16.020, the applicant or installer
shall contact the City to request a footing inspection before the concrete has been poured or
bracket inspection before a building- mounted sign is installed.
B. It is the responsibility of the installer to obtain an electrical permit and associated
inspections from the City if the sign uses electrical power.
C. It is the responsibility of the installer to contact the City for a final inspection for all signs
when installation is complete.
19.16.040 Maintenance. All signs, including their support structures, shall be kept in good
repair, specifically:
1. Signs shall be regularly painted or appropriately maintained.
2. Damaged signs or support structures shall be replaced in accordance with the
original permit unless the sign is non conforming, per Chapter 19.36.
3. All lighting shall be maintained in good working order with no broken or burned
out lamps. Signs do not have to be illuminated at all times; however, if they are illuminated, the
entire sign shall be illuminated and there shall be no dark portions of the sign.
4. Electrical and power cords shall not be visible.
5. Cabinet signs with missing sign faces are strictly prohibited within the City
6. If a building mounted sign is removed, the building wall shall be restored to a
condition to match the remaining wall area. There shall be no evidence that a sign was located
on the building.
19.16.050 Removal of Abandoned Signs.
A. The Director shall order the removal of any sign that is abandoned as defined by TMC
Section 19.08.020 The particular mitigation measures shall be based on the circumstances
outlined below.
1. Non- conforming Freestanding Sign. In the event that a non conforming freestanding
sign has been abandoned and the sign is not covered under a grace period found in Chapter
19.36, the Director shall order the property owner to remove the sign and sign structure within
45 days of issuance of a Notice and Order from the City
2. Non conforming Building- Mounted Sign. In the event that a non- conforming building
mounted sign has been abandoned, the Director shall order the property owner to remove the
sign within 45 days of issuance of a Notice and Order from the City The building wall shall be
completely restored, as ordered by the Director
3. Conforming Freestanding Sign. In the event that a conforming freestanding sign is
abandoned, the Director shall order the property owner to install a blank face on the sign within
30 days of issuance of a Notice and Order, until such time as a new tenant obtains a sign permit
from the City.
4. Conforming Building Mounted Sign. In the event that a conforming building- mounted
sign is abandoned, the Director shall order the property owner to install a blank face on the sign
within 30 days of issuance of a Notice and Order until such time as a new tenant obtains a sign
permit from the City. Building- mounted signs utilizing channel letters shall be completely
removed and the wall restored within 30 days of issuance of a Notice and Order.
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B. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to provide sufficient evidence that a
sign is conforming to the regulations of the City's current Sign Code.
19.16.060 Immediate Removal, Public Safety. The Director shall order the immediate
removal of any sign or sign support structure that in his /her opinion poses an imminent threat
to public safety or damage to adjacent structures.
Section 5. TMC Chapter 19.20, "Permanent Signs," hereby reads as follows:
19.20.010 Intent. The number of signs permitted on individual properties varies based on
several factors. These factors include, but are not limited to, zoning, type of use and site design.
It is the goal of the City to allow a wide range of sign types, while also protecting the aesthetic
character of the City's various zoning districts. Signs permitted under this chapter may only list
on- premise businesses, products and uses.
19.20.020 Permanent Sign Application Materials. All applications to install a permanent
sign or other visual communication device shall include the following:
1. Three copies of a completed and signed application form provided by the City
2. Three copies of a dimensioned and scaled site plan showing property lines, streets,
buildings and parking areas; the location of all existing freestanding signs on the premises; and
the location of all existing building- mounted signs on the same building as the proposed signs.
Generally, the City will not require site plans to be prepared by a licensed surveyor; however,
the City shall have the authority to require a site plan prepared by a Washington State Licensed
Surveyor if such site plan will assist in the City's review of the proposed application.
3. Three copies of scaled and dimensioned drawings of the proposed sign or signs with
area calculations.
4. If building mounted signs are proposed, three copies of a scaled elevation of the
building walls where the signs will be located indicating the location and extent of the exposed
building face used to calculate the sign area.
5. Three copies of a scaled and dimensioned building profile, if projecting signs are
proposed.
6. Method of illumination, if proposed.
7. Details for any dynamic portions of the proposed signs.
8. Method of support and attachment for building mounted signs.
9. If freestanding signs are proposed, the scaled and dimensioned footing designs and
height calculations.
10. Structural calculations, if required per Section 19.16.020.
11. Fee as established in the most current fee schedule.
12. One copy of a valid Washington State contractor's license or owner's affidavit.
13. Valid Tukwila business license number for the sign contractor, if applicable.
19.20.030 Permanent Signs in Residential Zones.
A. Institutional uses and multi- family complexes are allowed one flush- mounted wall sign
per building and one freestanding monument -style sign for each public street that provides
access to the premise.
B. Monument Sign Design Standards.
1. The area of a monument sign is limited to 30 square feet per sign face and a total of
60 square feet for all sides.
2. The sign shall be no taller than five feet.
3. Maximum width of the sign shall not exceed 15 feet.
4. The sign must meet sight distance triangle restrictions.
5. The sign shall be located in a landscaped area.
6. The sign may only use indirect down lighting methods except for dynamic signs as
allowed under TMC 19.20.030 (Dl- The lighting shall have no spillover impact on adjacent
properties.
C. Flush- Mounted Building Signs (Wall Signs) Design Standards.
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1. The maximum area of any flush mounted building sign is limited to the calculation
from Table 2 in Section 19.20.050; however, in no case shall the area of a flush mounted building
sign be greater than 50 square feet.
2. Lighting for flush mounted building signs shall be limited to indirect, concealed and
backlit devices. The lighting shall produce no spillover or glare onto adjacent properties.
D. Dynamic Signs in Residential Zones.
1. One monument sign per premise, as permitted under Section 19.20.030.B, may
contain a dynamic feature. The following design standards apply to all dynamic signs installed
under this section:
seconds.
a. The image of the sign may not change more frequently than once every ten
b. The image must appear and disappear as one image. The image may not appear
to flash, undulate, pulse or portray explosions, fireworks, flashes of light, or blinking or chasing
lights, or appear to move toward or away from the viewer, to expand, contract, bounce, rotate,
spin, twist, scroll, travel or otherwise portray movement.
c. Illumination of the dynamic sign is limited to the hours of 7AM to 10PM.
d. All signs shall have installed ambient light monitors. and shall at all times allow
such monitors to automatically adiust the brightness level of the electronic sign based on
ambient light conditions. Maximum brightness levels for electronic signs shall not exceed .3
foot candle above ambient light conditions. measured 100 feet from the face.
2. Notice of Understanding. The owner of any dynamic sign installed per this subsection
must submit a letter to the Director stating that he /she understands and agrees to abide by the
above requirements.
19.20.040 Permanent Free Standing Signage in Commercial/Industrial Zones. Monument
signs are permitted within all commercial and industrial zones, subject to the following
standards:
1. Design Standards. Each premise is permitted to have one free standing monument
style sign. Additional monument signs are permitted if the premise contains over 800 feet of
linear frontage on City or quasi public streets, per Table 1.
Table 1- Design Standards for Permanent Monument
Signs in Commercial and Industrial Zones
Total ROW of Allowable Sign Message
Premise Area
Less than I 36 square feet per
400 feet I side /72 square feet total
400 -599 feet 50 square feet per
side /100 square feet total
600 -799 feet 60 square feet per
side /120 square feet total
800 -999 feet 66 square feet per
side /132 square feet total
1,000 feet 72 square feet per
and over side /144 square feet total
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Total Allowable
Sign Size
54 square feet per
side /108 square feet total
70 square feet per
side /140 square feet
total
80 square feet per
side /160 square feet
total
88 square feet per
side /176 square feet
total
96 square feet per
side /192 square feet
total
Maximum
Height
6 feet
7 feet
7 feet
8 feet
8 feet
Number of Signs
One
One
One
Two
One for every 400 feet of
linear street frontage.
a. Allowable sign message area is either the face panel of the sign, or for channel
letters or signs painted on seating or retaining walls, that portion of the sign devoted to the
actual message, logo or business name.
b. Total size is the entire area of the sign, including the support structure.
2. Special Corner Properties or Properties with Multiple Street Fronhrees. A property that
borders on more than one public street. but has less than 800 total feet of linear frontage. is
permitted to have one monument sign per street frontage if the following criteria are met:
a. The property has as at least 200 feet of frontage on each public street where a sign
will be placed,
b. Each public street provides direct access to the property: and
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c. For each separate street frontaeze Table 1 shall be used to determine the desir -o
standards for anv proposed monument signn.
32. Setback. All monument signs shall be placed at a minimum of five feet from all
property lines. No sign taller than three feet shall be placed within the sight distance triangle of
an access point, unless it can be demonstrated the sign will not pose a safety issue by reducing
visibility.
43. Maximum Width. The maximum permitted width of a monument sign is 15 feet.
54. Address. In order to facilitate emergency response, all new freestanding signs shall
have the address number or address number range of the premise listed on the structure. The
address shall not be counted toward the allowable sign message area limit. Address numbers
must be plainly legible and visible from the street fronting the property. These numbers shall
contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters.
Numbers shall be a minimum of four inches high with a minimum stroke width of 1.5 inches.
E thfilevekvea,- ,'gift f-WRi n some— asseas of the City- stieh -as Interurban Avenue
where largs us eveleped rights of way c present, the City shall allow these areas to be
ccnsi_dcrcd part of-thc premise of the- adlaeer +t r'epei4ics :n will al'_aw man ti et+t- signs
cer the adjacent r_cr:lisc to b_ p €ed within these areas. The property- ew-ier =must
se£triE: I, 3::_. =SS :3r f-rem the-owner of -the- -night of way -a1co a ree-t s-- nlainiein -the
travr4le portiorref-the right- ef-way a-1eng- it his /hei tijacent preperly-- T-he-aigrtsetback will
be calculated frcri.:he back edge of the side stared edge, whichever is furthei rom the
street:
76. Sig-ns in Lin rrx+ -l4tilih €+zseive.+ts -acid Coriiekrrs. N here- uiideegreixad --r lsements
and /s_ sa_- riders have bccn established, ::e signs shall- be-leeatcd in the r _atici' cr ssescmcnt,
inie e ressly speei€ie- permission is-g+ant -ed- by- -the -entity held-itig the case ient-t-is he
responsibility of all_, aiits -to know the loc tien of all caacnicnts on -thei remise.
19.20.050 Permanent Building Mounted Signs in Commercial and Industrial Zones.
A. Flush- Mounted Building Signs (Wall Signs).
1. Each separate tenant suite with an exterior public entrance is permitted to have one
flush mounted building sign per exterior public entrance.
2. Buildings where multiple tenants share a common entrance may have one flush
mounted building sign per exterior public entrance.
3. Wall signs may only be placed within the section of exposed building face that
qualifies for the placement of the building- mounted sign.
4. The area of the wall sign shall be a percentage of the area of exposed building face
where the sign is proposed to be displayed, as calculated per Table 2.
5. Wall signs may not extend above the top of the parapet or eave of the roof of the
wall on which they are located.
Table 2 Allowable Message Area for Permanent Wall
Signs in Commercial and Industrial Zones
Area (LxH) of Exposed Building Permitted Sign Area
Face (EBF) in Square Feet
0 -500 EBF x .05 or 20 square feet
501 -1,500 (EBF -500) x .04 25 square feet
1,501 -3,000 (EBF- 1,500) x .03 65 square feet
3,001 -5,000 (EBF- 3,000) x .02 110 square feet
Over 5,000 150 square feet maximum size permitted
B. Awning Face Sign. An awning face sign may be substituted for a flush mounted
building sign, allowed under Section 19.20.050.A, when the following standards are met:
1. The size of the awning face sign may be no larger than the flush mounted sign that
would otherwise be allowed per Table 2.
2. Awning face signs are only permitted on awnings located over a public entrance to a
building. The sign area may be distributed amongCity will consider multiple awnings on an
exposed building face -ffc_ individual tenant space to be ens awning.
3. The awning face sign may not exceed 30 percent of the total area of the awning on
which the sign is located.
4. Only indirect lighting shall be used for awning face signs.
5. The sign may only consist of vinyl or paint applied directly to the awning.
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6. In commercial zones awnings may only be constructed of canvas or nylon fabric.
C. Projecting Signs. One projecting sign per separate business is permitted in addition to
any other type of building- mounted sign when the following standards are met:
1. Projecting signs shall only be permitted for tenant spaces that have a direct ground
floor public entrance.
2. No portion of a projecting sign may extend above the lower sill of any second story
window on the same exposed building face.
3. No projecting sign may exceed 20 square feet per face or a total of 40 square feet for
all faces.
4. Projecting signs may project no more than four feet out from the facade of the
building. In no case shall the sign extend beyond the sidewalk which it overhangs.
5 No portion of the projecting sign shall be lower than eight feet above the level of
sidewalk or other public right -of -way over which it projects.
6. Projecting signs may utilize rotating mechanical displays.
D Corner Projecting Sign. In order to foster an urban -style environment, a corner
projecting sign may be substituted for a projecting sign allowed under Section 19.20.050 C,
when the following standards are met:
1. Signs shall only be permitted in the TUC and NCC zones.
2. Signs are only permitted on the corners of buildings that are built to the minimum
zoning setbacks of two public streets or a private street developed to public standards including
sidewalks and landscaping. One corner projecting sign is permitted for each comer of a
building that meets the above standards.
3. Public entrances must be provided directly from the adjacent public right -of -way
into the tenant space in order to qualify for a corner projecting sign.
4. Signs shall be no taller than 25 feet from the bottom -most part of the sign to the
tallest part of the sign and may not extend above the wall on which it is mounted.
5. Sign area is limited to 75 square feet per face or a total of 150 square feet for all faces.
6. Signs shall project no more than six feet from the facade of the building. In no case
shall the sign extend out beyond the street edge of the sidewalk under the sign.
7. No portion of a sign shall be lower than 12 feet above the level of the sidewalk.
8. Signs may utilize the following dynamic features: neon, chasing lights, flashing
lights or rotating mechanical displays. The use of strobe lights, video displays and rotating
lights is prohibited.
E. Canopy -Edge Sign. A canopy -edge sign may be substituted for a projecting sign,
allowed under Section 19.20.050.C, when the following standards are met:
1. Canopy -edge signs may only be permitted for canopies located above a public
entrance to a business.
2. The sign is limited to a single row of individual letters not to exceed 12 inches in
height.
3. The letters may not project beyond the edge of the canopy
4. The length of the sign may not exceed two- thirds of the canopy length.
5. The letters may be illuminated.
F. Pedestrian- Oriented Building Mounted Signs. The signs listed under this section are
allowed in addition to the building- mounted signs permitted under Section 19.20.050.A through
E.
1. Under- Awning/Canopy Sign.
a. Under awning /canopy signs must be located adjacent to a public entrance from
a public or private sidewalk into a business.
b. No more than one sign shall be permitted per business, per facade.
c. No sign may exceed three square feet in size.
d. No sign may project farther from the building than its associated awning or
canopy
e. No part of the sign may be less than eight feet above the level of the sidewalk or
right -of -way over which it projects.
2. Awning/Canopy Side Sign.
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signs.
a. Only awnings /canopies that are over exterior public entrances are permitted
b. Only one awning /canopy per facade may have a sign.
c. Awning text and graphics may not exceed 12 inches in height with total sign area
not to exceed 40 percent of the awning side area.
d. Canopy signs are permitted one line of lettering, not to exceed two- thirds the
thickness of the canopy or 12 inches, whichever is less.
e. Signs shall not project beyond the edge of the associated awning or canopy.
f. No portion of the sign may be less than eight feet above the sidewalk or other
public right -of -way over which it projects.
g. Awning signs may only consist of vinyl or paint applied directly to the awning.
3. Permanent Window Signs.
a. Permanent window signs are permitted to be placed within ground -floor
windows that provide a direct line of sight in and out of an area open to the public. Permanent
window signs are not permitted to be placed in windows located along private offices, storage
space, display windows, residential units or other areas of the building that are not open to the
public.
b. Only windows along the same facade as a public entrance to the business are
eligible for permanent window signs.
c. No more than ten percent of the total ground -floor transparent- window area
along the exposed building face of a business may be occupied by permanent window signs.
Spandrel, opaque and mirrored glass do not qualify for window signage.
d. No individual sign may be larger than six square feet.
e. In no case shall the total sign area in the window, both of permanent window
signs and temporary window signs, exceed 25 percent of the window area.
f. The letter height for window signs shall not exceed eight inches.
g. The signs may be made of gold or silver leaf, vinyl or paint, applied directly to
the glass; etched into the glass; neon mounted or suspended behind the glass; or framed and
mounted paper signs. Posters that are not framed are not considered permanent window signs
and may only be permitted under Section 19.24.080, "Temporary Window Signs."
h. If the signs are illuminated, only exposed neon tubing is permitted.
4. Incentive Signage. Businesses may be permitted additional flush mounted building
signage on walls fronting their tenant spaces that do not qualify for the signage described in
Section 19.20.050.A, under the following circumstances:
a. The business or use may not have any other building- mounted signage oriented
in the same direction as the incentive sign.
b. Architectural interest must be provided through at least one of the following
methods:
1) At least 50 percent of the wall area between the height of two and seven feet
must be transparent with either an unobstructed view into the business or use, or a display
window with a depth of at least three feet.
2) Architectural detailing consistent with the building design using changes in
color, materials, texture and variations in the wall plane.
3) Artwork such as mosaic, mural or sculptural relief over at least 50 percent of
the wall surface.
4) One or more trellises covering at least 50 percent of the wall area between the
height of two and seven feet, planted with climbing vines and other plant materials in a
planting bed at least two feet in width and provided with permanent irrigation.
5) The allowable area of the sign is 50 percent of that calculated in "Table 2
Allowable Message Area for Permanent Wall Signs in Commercial and Industrial Zones."
G. Parking Garage Incentives. The City desires to encourage the construction of parking
garages and will permit special incentive signs for parking garage structures under the
following conditions:
1. Signs may only be flush mounted to the walls of parking structures have two or
more above ground parking levels.
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2. The sign must be designed to allow periodic replacement of the copy. Electronic
signs are permitted as long as they are operated in a way that does not meet the definition of
dynamic sign.
3. The sign face must be contained within a frame that is architecturally compatible
with the building design.
4. Internally illuminated cabinet signs are not permitted.
5 Each sign may be a maximum of 288 square feet in area.
6. One wall of the parking structure may have signage, including incentive signage
and permanent channel letter signs, that does not exceed eight percent of the exposed parking
structure face. All other exposed parking structure walls are permitted signage, including
incentive signage and permanent channel letter signs, that does not exceed six and one -half
percent of the exposed face area. Ventilation openings may be included in the parking structure
face area calculation.
7 A maximum of two parking structure incentive signs are allowed per parking
structure wall.
19.20.060 Pole Banners.
A. Pole banners are only permitted in the Tukwila Urban Center zone.
B. Pole banners may only be attached to parking lot light poles on private property.
C. Banners may have periodic changes in copy without submittal for a new sign permit.
D. The maximum area per banner is ten square feet, with a limit of two banners per
pole.
E. The lower edge of the banner must be at least 12 feet above grade.
F. Annual renewal of the barrier permit is required.
19.20.070 Dynamic Displays in Commercial and Industrial Zones. Dynamic signs are
strictly prohibited within commercial and industrial zones, except where specifically allowed
for designated sign types.
Section 6. TMC Chanter 19.22 "Tukwila Urban Center Out-Out Provision." hereby reads as
follows:
19.22.010 Purpose. The Tukwila Urban Center defined in TMC Section 19.08.247 is an area
of existing development that due to its high traffic counts and auto oriented property
configuration is well served by the historical sign regulations. This Chanter establishes an "out
out" provision for properties that currently do not have the development pattern that would
benefit from the sign regulations found in TMC 19.20.
19.22.020 Opt Out Permitted.
A. A property owner within the Tukwila Urban Center (TUCI may choose to "opt out"
of the requirements found in Chapter 19.20 of this Title if the following criteria are met:
1. The property owner of record must submit a letter to the Director of DCD
notifying the City of the property owner's intent to "out -out" of Chapter 19.20 within one -year
of the effective date of this Title. with copies of the opt out Letter Provided to all tenants on the
premise.
2. The letter must include a man identifying all parcels included in the "opt -out"
request and verifying that the premise is located within the TUC.
3. An "out -out" request will apply to all buildings. tenants and signs on a premise.
4. The letter must be accompanied bv the fee established in the most current fee
schedule.
B. Upon receipt of the letter. the Director of Community Development shall confirm
receipt and issue a determination regarding whether the property meets the opt -out criteria
listed above.
19.22.025 Other Chapters Remain in Force. A decision to opt out as permitted by TMC
19.22.020 is only from Chapter 19.20 and all other chanters of this Title shall remain in full force.
Properties that have opted out of the reauirements of Chanter 19.20 are ineligible to participate
in the Master Sign Program found in Chanter 19.32 unless the property owner chooses to opt
back in pursuant to TMC 19.22.040.
19.22.027 Permanent Sign Application Materials. All applications to install a permanent
sign or other visual communication device under this Chanter shall include the following:
1. Three copies of a completed and signed application form Provided bv the City
noting that the sign is proposed on an "opt -out" premise.
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2. Three copies of a dimensioned and scaled site elan showing property lines. streets,
buildings and narking areas: the location of all existing freestanding signs on the Premises: and
the location of all existing building- mounted signs on the same building as the proposed signs.
Generally. the City will not reouire site plans to be prepared bv a licensed surveyor: however,
the City shall have the authority to reouire a site plan prepared by a Washington State Licensed
Surveyor if such site plan will assist in the Citv's review of the proposed application.
3. Three conies of scaled and dimensioned drawings of the proposed sign or signs with
area calculations.
4. If wall signs are proposed, three conies of a scaled elevation of the building walls
where the signs will be located indicating_ the location and extent of the exposed building face
used to calculate the sign area.
5. Method of illumination. if proposed.
6. Method of support and attachment for wall signs.
7. If freestanding signs are proposed. the scaled and dimensioned footing designs and
height calculations.
8. Structural calculations. if reouired per Section 19.16.020.
9. Fee as established in the most current fee schedule.
10. One copy of a valid Washington State contractor's license or owner's affidavit
11. Valid Tukwila business license number for the sign contractor. if applicable.
19.22.030 Allowable Sienage. A premise that has opted out will only be allowed
permanent signs under the provisions of this section.
1. Permanent Wall Signs. Each tenant space shall be Permitted one Permanent wall
sign. An additional permanent wall sign is permitted if the tenant is not listed on a
freestanding sign on the premises. The following criteria shall be met for all Permanent wall
signs:
a. The area of the wall sign shall be a percentage of the area of exposed building
face of the tenant space, as calculated per Table 1.
Table 1- Allowable Message Area for Permanent Wall
Signs in the Southcenter Parkway Corridor
Area (LxH) of Exposed Building
Face (EBF) in Square Feet
0 -500
501 -1,500
1,501 -3,000
3,001 -5,000
Over 5,000
b. The Permanent wall sign must be located on the exposed building face of the
tenant space that oualifies for occupied by the business utilizing the sign.
c. Only one Permanent wall sign is Permitted per tenant space per exposed
building face.
2. Freestanding Signs. One freestanding sign shall be permitted for each premise. One
additional freestanding sign may be permitted for premises that meet the following conditions:
a. The site has at least 400 linear feet of frontage on a public street;
The site has at least two detached commercial occupied buildings, neither of which is accessory
to the other;
b. The site is occupied by at least two tenants:
3. Development Standards for Freestanding Signs. The following development
standards shall apply to freestanding signs permitted under TMC 19.22.030 (B):
a. Area of Sign.
Street Frontage I Sign Area /Sign
Up to 200 ft 150 sq ft. with a total of 100 sq ft. for all I
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Permitted Sign Area
EBF x .05 or 20 square feet
(EBF -500) x .04 25 square feet
(EBF- 1,500) x .03 65 square feet
(EBF- 3,000) x .02 110 square feet
150 square feet maximum size permitted
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200 to 400 ft.
Over 400 ft.
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sides.
75 sq. ft. with a total of 150 sq ft. for all
sides.
100 sq. ft. with a total of 200 sq ft. for all
sides.
b. Height. Any permitted freestanding sign shall be not taller than the building which
it identifies up to a maximum height of 35 feet.
c. Setback. All freestanding ns shall be setback from all property lines a distance
equal to the height of the sign.
d. Address. In order to facilitate emergency response, all new freestanding signs shall
have the address number or address number range of the premise listed on the structure. The
address shall not be counted toward the allowable sign message area limit. Address numbers
must be plainly legible and visible from the street fronting the property. These numbers shall
contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters.
Numbers shall be a minimum of four inches high with a minimum stroke width of 1.5 inches.
19.22.035 Dynamic Signs. Properties that .choose to opt out of the provisions of TMC
Chapter 19.20 are prohibited from having any sign which may be considered a dynamic sign.
19.22.040 Right to Opt back In.
A property owner that previously chose to out out under TMC Section 19.22.020 may choose
to opt back into the signs permitted under TMC Chapter 19.20. A decision to out back in is
permanent and may be made at any time provided the following conditions are met:
1. The property owner provides the Director of Community Development a letter
indicating their intent to out back into TMC Chapter 19.20 with copies to all affected tenants.
2. The letter must identify all signs that do not confirm to the requirements of TMC
Chapter 19.20 and either modify or remove them within 30 -days of the date of the letter.
3. If existing signs are to be modified to meet the standards in TMC Chanter 19.20 the
letter must be accompanied by sign permit applications identifying how they will achieve
conformance.
Section 76. TMC Chapter 19.24, "Temporary Signs," hereby reads as follows:
19.24.010 Purpose. Temporary signs serve an important economic function and contribute
to the success of the City's businesses. However, the City also desires to limit the number of
temporary signs and control the placement and size of such signage in order to minimize visual
clutter.
19.24.020 Application Materials for Temporary and Special Event Sign Permits. All
applications to install a temporary sign or other visual communication device shall include:
1. Two copies of a completed and signed application form provided by the City;
2. Two copies of a site plan showing proposed sign location(s). If applicable, the site
plan shall show the location of adjacent streets, buildings, sidewalks and parking areas;
3. Two copies of scaled and dimensioned drawings of the proposed sign or signs with
area calculations and text;
4. Two copies of an elevation of the building wall showing placement of the sign if a
building- mounted sign is proposed,
5. Length of proposed display; and
6. Fee, as established in the most current fee schedule.
19.24.030 Temporary Signs in Residential Zones. In addition to the signage permitted
under Section 19.12.030, institutional and multi- family uses are permitted the following
temporary signage:
1. Each institutional use and multi- family complex is permitted up to two temporary
signs per temporary sign permit.
2. The total area of all temporary signs displayed under a perrnit may not exceed 64
square feet in sign face area.
3. Temporary signs may be either flat cloth or vinyl banners, or rigid plastic or
cardboard signs.
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4. Temporary signs may remain in place for not more than 30 days per calendar
quarter. A temporary sign permit from the City is required for each separate display of
temporary signage within the calendar quarter.
5. In addition to the temporary signage allowed above, each institutional use and
multi- family complex may have up to 12 special event signage permits per year to display signs
and devices that would be prohibited under Section 19 12.040.6. The duration of the permit shall
not exceed 72 hours.
19.24.040 Temporary Signs in Commercial and Industrial Zones.
A. Each business is permitted up to two temporary signs per temporary sign permit.
B. The total area of all temporary signs displayed under a permit may not exceed 64 square
feet in sign face area.
C. Temporary signs may be either flat cloth or vinyl banners, or flat plastic or cardboard
rigid signs.
D Temporary signs may remain in place for not more than 30 days per calendar quarter. A
temporary sign permit from the City is required for each separate display of signage within the
calendar quarter.
19.24.050 General Provisions for all Temporary Signs.
A. Placement. Temporary signs may only be placed on the wall fronting the tenant space of
the applicant that has been issued the temporary sign permit or on the associated premises. The
sign must be securely attached, either to the wall if located on the building, or securely tied to
stakes located in a landscaped area. Display of temporary signs in any other manner, except as
outlined by this code, is strictly forbidden.
B. Setbacks. All temporary signs not attached to buildings shall be placed a minimum of
five feet from all property lines. No temporary sign more than three feet in height shall be
placed within the sight distance triangle of a vehicular access point, unless it can be
demonstrated the sign will not pose a safety issue by reducing visibility.
19.24.060 Special Event Signage. Each business operating within the City shall be permitted
one special event permit every 24 months. That permit allows:
1. The type and size of temporary signs permitted under Section 19.24.050.
2. Any of the sign types otherwise prohibited under Section 19 12.040.6, "Prohibited
Signs and Devices."
3. These signs may remain in place for up to 30 days.
19.24.070 Portable Signs.
A. In order to facilitate the orderly movement of automobile traffic and pedestrians,
portable signs may be used for limited duration with special permission from the City The use
of portable signs is limited to special events such as the holiday shopping season at the
Westfield Southcenter Mall, events by the City's Parks and Recreation Department and /or
events at Fort Dent Park.
B. The City may approve the use of portable signs for special events if all of the following
conditions are met:
1. The portable signs are being used strictly to assist motorists and /or pedestrians in
navigating City streets and /or commercial properties. The portable signs are not intended to be
used for advertising or as a means to circumvent the intent of this code.
2. The placement of the portable signs will not impact public safety.
3. The use of the portable signs is part of a larger motorist and /or pedestrian
management plan.
4. The anticipated traffic for the event represents a 50 percent increase above the
ordinary traffic for the site that will be hosting the event.
5 The special permit shall be valid for up to 30 days. Portable signs shall be removed
within 24 hours following the conclusion of the event.
6. The signs can be safely displayed and placed.
C. Real estate directional signs do not qualify for a special portable sign permit.
19.24.080 Temporary Window Signs.
A. Temporary window signs do not require sign permits.
B. No sign may be displayed for longer than 30 days.
C. Signs are permitted to be placed within ground -floor windows that provide a direct line
of sight in and out of an area open to the public. Temporary window signs are not permitted to
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be placed in windows located along private offices, storage space, residential units or other
areas of the building that are not open to the public.
D. Only windows along the same facade as a public entrance to the business are eligible for
temporary window signs.
E. No more than 15 percent of the total ground -floor transparent window area of a
business along an exposed building face may be occupied by temporary window signs.
Spandrel, opaque and mirrored glass do not qualify for window signage.
F. No individual sign may be larger than six square feet.
G. In no case may the total sign area in the window, both of permanent window signs and
temporary window signs, exceed 25 percent of the eligible window area.
19.24.090 Political Campaign Signs.
A. Political campaign signs do not require sign permits.
B. Candidate signs may only be installed for candidates who either have publicly declared
their intent to run for office or have filed with King County to seek office.
C. Initiative signage may be displayed for any initiative in which there is an ongoing drive
to collect signatures to place the initiative on a ballot or if the initiative has been filed with the
Washington Secretary of State's Office or County Auditor's Office. All signs must be removed
within 14 days following the election.
D All political campaign signage shall be removed within 14 days following the general
election. If a run -off election for a candidate or initiative is required, the signs may remain until
14 days following the run -off election.
E. Campaign signs may be placed in the landscaped area or parking strip of a property in
which the adjacent property owner controls and maintains the area. No political campaign sign
shall be erected on private property without the permission of the property owner or his /her
agent.
F. Campaign signs are in addition to any sign permitted under TMC Section 19.24.030,
"Temporary Signs in Residential Areas."
G. Campaign signs may not be located on real property owned and /or controlled by the
City of Tukwila.
H. Campaign signs may not be located within street medians or in right -of -way areas not
maintained by an adjacent property owner
Section 87. TMC Chapter 19.28, "Variances," hereby reads as follows:
19.28.010 Sign Variance Process. Variance decisions shall be made by the Hearing Examiner
at an open record public hearing and any appeals shall be made to King County Superior Court.
19.28.020 Sign Variance Application Materials. Applications for sign variances must be
accompanied by the following materials:
1. Three copies of a completed and signed application form provided by the City.
2. Three copies of a dimensioned and scaled site plan showing property lines, streets,
buildings, parking areas and the location of all existing and proposed signs on the premises,
including both building- mounted and freestanding signs. Highlight the change requested
through the variance. Generally, the City will not require site plans to be prepared by a licensed
surveyor; however, the City shall have the authority to require a site plan prepared by a
Washington State Licensed Surveyor if such site plan will assist in the City's review of the
proposed application.
3 Three copies of scaled and dimensioned drawings of the proposed sign or signs with
area calculations.
4. If building- mounted signs are proposed, three copies of a scaled elevation of the
building walls where the signs will be located indicating the location and extent of the exposed
building face used to calculate the sign area.
5 If freestanding signs are proposed, scaled and dimensioned drawing with height
calculations.
6. Three copies of a scaled and dimensioned building profile, if projecting signs are
proposed.
7 Method of illumination, if proposed.
8. Details for any dynamic portions of the proposed signs.
9. Written narrative responding to the seven variance criteria found in Section
19.28.030.
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10 Mailing labels for all property owners, tenants and businesses within 500 feet of the
subject property requesting the variance, or the Public Notice Mailing Fee per the City's current
fee schedule, if the City is to generate the labels.
11. Payment of fee as established in the City's current fee schedule.
19.28.030 Variance Criteria. The Hearing Examiner may grant a variance to the
requirements of this code only when the applicant demonstrates compliance with the following:
1. The variance as approved shall not constitute a grant of special privilege, which is
inconsistent with the intent of this Sign Code.
2. 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. Granting of the variance will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or
injurious to property, improvements or environment in the vicinity and in the zone in which the
subject property is located.
4. The special conditions and circumstances prompting the variance request do not
result from the actions of the applicant.
5. The variance as granted represents the Least amount of deviation from the 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. The variance request is not inconsistent with any other adopted City plan or policy,
including the Zoning Code, Walk and Roll Plan and /or Shoreline Master Program.
7. 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.
19.28.040 Variance Not Permitted. In no case shall the Hearing Examiner permit a variance
to be issued for a sign type that is prohibited under this code.
Section 9. TMC Chapter 19.32, "Master Sign Program," hereby reads as follows:
19.32.010 Intent of the Master Sign Program. The Master Sign Program is intended to
provide a voluntary process to allow for adaptation of the standard provisions of the Sign Code
to the specific needs of larger sites. The signs approved through this process must be integrated
into a cohesive design and communication approach for the site, while continuing to meet the
overall intent of the Sign Code listed in Section 19.04.020. Signs permitted under this chapter
may only list on- premise businesses, products and uses.
19.32.020 Eligibility. Property owners of premises that meet one of the following conditions
may apply for approval of a Master Sign Program to customize the standard Sign Code
requirements to their specific site conditions:
1. Sites of 15 acres or more, developed with one or more buildings, totaling at least
200,000 square feet.
2. Essential Public Facilities within commercial or industrial zones. Uses-that provide
emergency v__riccs— (i.2., ?hespital emergrn..t r :ns, c.c.) where public safety 1
jeepsH'4iaed In Tft col9gslhelec with -lhc C1tyaS1giYGede:
19.32.030 Process. Master Sign Programs that propose to vary the size, number or location of
otherwise permissible signs under Section 19.32.060.A will be reviewed administratively by the
Director. Programs that propose to allow unique sign types or signs not otherwise permissible
under this code, per Section 19.32.060.B, will be reviewed by the Board of Architectural Review
Amendments to previously- approved Master Sign Programs will be reviewed administratively
by the Director. No appeals of Master Sign Program decisions are permitted. Approval of a
Master Sign Program does not waive the permit requirements for individual signs.
19.32.040 Criteria. A Master Sign Program may be approved if all of the following criteria
are met:
1. The Master Sign Program meets the intent of the Sign Code as well or better than the
signage allowed under the standard code provisions.
2. The requested deviations from the code respond to the specific characteristics or use
of the premises.
3. The program complies with the applicable standards in this chapter.
4. The existing and proposed signage is integrated with an overall lighting scheme for
the project site to create a safe, lively and inviting night -time environment if the site is in a
commercial zone.
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5. No sign- related code enforcement violations on the premises for at least one year
prior to submitting the Master Sign Program application.
6. The program must contain a schedule for the removal of all non conforming signs on
the premise within three years from the date of Master Sign Program approval.
19.32.050 Master Sign Program Application Materials. Applications for Master Sign
Programs must be accompanied by the following materials:
1. Three copies of a completed and signed application form provided by the City.
2. Three copies of a dimensioned and scaled site plan showing property lines, streets,
buildings, parking areas and the location of all existing and proposed signs on the premises,
including both building- mounted and freestanding signs. Highlight the changes requested
through the program. Generally, the City will not require site plans to be prepared by a licensed
surveyor; however, the City shall have the authority to require a site plan prepared by a
Washington State Licensed Surveyor if such site plan will assist in the City's review of the
proposed application.
3. Three copies of scaled and dimensioned drawings of the proposed sign or signs with
area and height calculations.
4. If building- mounted signs are proposed, three copies of a scaled elevation of the
building walls where the signs will be located indicating the location and extent of the exposed
building face used to calculate the sign area.
5. Three copies of a scaled and dimensioned building profile, if projecting signs are
proposed.
6. Method of illumination, if proposed.
7 Details for any dynamic portions of the proposed signs.
8. Written narrative justifying the requested deviations from the Sign Code and
demonstrating compliance with the standards in this chapter.
9 Analysis of sight distance safety if increases in size to monument signs or installation
of a grand- monument sign is proposed.
10. Mailing labels for all property owners, tenants and businesses within 500 feet of the
subject property for programs reviewed by the BAR, or the Public Notice Mailing Fee, per the
City's current fee schedule, if the City is to generate the labels.
11. Payment of fee as listed in the City's current fee schedule.
19.32.060 Allowable Modifications Under a Master Sign Program.
A. Modifications to the following standards may be allowed under an administratively
approved Master Sign Program:
1. Increase in monument sigrl total area of up to 25 percent. No increase in height
permitted.
2. Increase in the area of a flush mounted building sign, allowed per Section
19.20.050.A shall be allowed as follows:
a. For premises up to 85 acres in size, the flush mounted building siim can be
increased to six percent of the exposed building face, up to a maximum of 250 square feet.
b. For premises eve -85 acres and over in size, the flush mounted building sign can
be increased up to six percent of the exposed building, face up to a maximum of 500 square feet,
provided that no flush mounted building sign with an area greater than 250 square feet is
located within 2500 se -care feet of a public street.
ef-up -te- six leer eei ef- the- ex- pesed- bui -1e ink= -face; i-rla- te- a- maxinnui- of-250 -squa e- feet:
3. Aggregation of the building- mounted or freestanding sign area allowed per Table 1
or Table 2 into fewer, larger signs of the same type.
4. Up to four additional directional signs. The directional signs must utilize materials,
colors and details consistent with the design of the other site signage.
B In addition to the above -listed modifications, the following additional sign types may be
allowed with Board of Architectural Review approval.
1. Roof signs, subject to the following standards:
a. Roof signs may be allowed only within the TUC zone.
b. Roof signs may only be permitted on sloping roofs.
c. Roof signs may not exceed a maximum height of four feet above the eave of the
roof, but in no case may any part of the sign be higher than the peak of the roof.
d. Roof signs may not exceed 40 square feet in total size.
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e. Roof signs may only be individual channel letters supported by an
architecturally integrated structure.
f. Roof signs may not project beyond the face of the building.
g. One roof sign may be allowed per structure. One additional roof -top sign may be
permitted if the roof -top signs are approved as part of the design review approval of the
structure.
2. Grand monument signs, subject to the following standards:
a. Grand monument signs may be allowed only within the TUC and TVS zones.
b. Each grand monument sign would substitute for one of the monument signs the
premises is eligible to install under Section 19.20.040.
c. Any poles or columns supporting the sign must have an architectural treatment
such as brick, stone or wood cladding that is consistent with the design of the buildings on site.
d. Sign message area may be increased up to 100 square feet per side, 200 square
feet total and the limitation on structure size is removed.
e. The sign structure must be set back from the side and rear property lines of the
premise a distance equal to the height increase requested or five feet, whichever is greater. The
minimum front setback is the smaller of the front yard required in the zoning district or the
height increase requested.
f. Total height of the sign structure may not exceed the height of the tallest building
on the premises.
g. No more than two grand monument signs are allowed per premises.
4. Landmark business wall signs, subject to the following standards:
a. Landmark businesses are allowed up to four flush mounted building signs, one
for each wall that faces a cardinal direction.
b. The allowed sign area is six percent of the total exterior wall of the tenant space,
up to a maximum of 500 square feet.
c. Landmark businesses that have a portion of their exterior wall obscured by a
structure may place their signage on the structure wall parallel to their obscured wall.
19.32.070 Existing Signs Not Conforming to a Master Sign Program. Any new or amended
Master Sign Program shall include the removal of any existing, non conforming signs on the
premises. The applicant may propose a phased schedule for bringing into conformance all signs
not conforming to the proposed or amended program, or Chapter 19.36 of this code, within
three years. If phasing is proposed, a financial guarantee acceptable to the Director shall be
held by the City until the premises is brought into compliance with the Sign Code and
approved Master Sign Program.
19.32.080 Regional Gateway Sign. In addition to the signs otherwise allowed under the
Master Sign Program, the City may allow by development agreement on property adjacent to
two interstate highways, installation of one sign intended to attract and welcome visitors to the
Tukwila Urban Center area of the City. The standards for such a sign shall be set forth in the
development agreement.
19.32.090 Binding Effect. After approval of a Master Sign Program, no permanent signs
shall be erected, placed, painted or maintained, except in conformance with such plan, and such
plan shall be enforced in the same way as any provision in this code. The Master Sign Program
shall be referenced to the lease agreements for all leasable space within the project and recorded
on the property title. In case of any conflict between the provisions of such a plan and any other
provisions in this code, this section shall control.
Section 109. TMC Chapter 19.36, "Non- Conforming Provisions," hereby reads as follows:
19.36.010 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish limits on the use of and
requirements for the removal of non conforming signs. Subject to the remaining restrictions of
this chapter, non conforming signs that were otherwise lawful on the effective date of this code,
or lawful at the time of their installation, may be continued until their removal is triggered. The
provisions of this chapter do not apply to billboards.
19.36.020 Definition and Removal of Legally Non Conforming Permanent Signs.
A. All permanent signs that do not conform to the specific standards of this code may be
considered legally non conforming if the sign was erected in conformance with a valid permit,
if a permit was required, and complied with all applicable laws at the time of the sign's
installation. Non conforming rights are not granted to temporary signs or signs that were in
violation of previous versions of the Sign Code.
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B. Any monument sign that was installed in the City prior to the effective date of this code
and that exceeds Sign Code standards as to sign area, height or setback by 15 percent or less
shall be deemed a conforming sign.
C. Grace Period for Permanent Signs that Complied with the Previous Sign Code.
1. Signs that were installed under the City's previous Sign Code, which was adopted
by Ordinance No. 1274 and amended by Ordinance Nos. 1617, 1649, 1773, 1792, 1857, 1892,
1913, 1964, 1982, 2004, 2019, 2096 and 2126, and became non conforming upon adoption of this
code, may be issued a non conforming sign permit that will allow them to remain for ten -years
grace period from the effective date of this Ordinance. This shall be known as the grace
period." le sign. Legal face chzmgs shall be defined as the
4ate -en whieh -the- Gi-t-y- least issued -a- sign- permit-5:s face -Or copy -ehai- ge4ee -the sul]leet-sign.
This section does not apply to signs that were classified as "freeway interchange" under the
previous Sign Code.
D. Sign Modifications During the Grace Period. During the grace period, the sign may be
refaced and the panel or copy changed, provided the area, height and location of the sign
remain unchanged. A non conforming sign permit will be issued for work covered under this
section. Permanent signs and sign structures that are moved, replaced or structurally altered
must be brought into conformance with the current Sign Code regulations.
E. Sign Modifications After the Grace Period. After the grace period, the sign is permitted
to remain as -is indefinitely However, application .`c: r.' is a an e,::f
complies with the Sign Code is required _`c_ any relocation, re- erection, alteration, replacement
or change in any way to a legal, non conforming sign, including the structure or sign
panel /face /copy will require the sign be brought into compliance with this code.,
19.36.030 Permanent Signs that Did Not Comply with the Previous Sign Code. Permanent
signs that did not comply with the City's Yrcvicua Sign Code as of August 2010. as adopted by
Ordinance No. 1274 and amended by Ordinance Nos. 1617, 1649, 1773, 1792, 1857, 1892, 1913,
1964, 1982, 2004, 2019, 2096 and 2126, are permitted to remain as -is indefinitely, provided the
property owner or tenant applies for a non conforming sign permit and is able to demonstrate
the signs were legally conforming at that time of installatiori--n 1cd and that any modifications
made to the sien complied with the City's Sign Code regulations at the time of the modification.
Application ft::: rd iss c_ic_ e c is required for Aany
change to the structure or sign panel /face /copy or any relocation, re- erection, alteration,
replacement or change in any way to a sign covered under this section will renuire that the sign
be brought into compliance with this Code.
19.36.040 Non Conforming Sign Permits.
A. Non conforming Sign Inventory. The Director shall, as soon as practicable, survey the
City for signs that do not conform to the requirements of this code. Upon determination that a
sign is non conforming or illegal, the Director shall use reasonable efforts to so notify in writing
the sign owner, and where practicable, the owner of the property on which the sign is located.
Notification shall include:
1. whether the sign is non- conforming or illegal, and
2. whether the sign may be eligible for a non conforming sign permit. If the identity of
the sign owner cannot be determined after reasonable inquiry, the notice may be affixed in a
conspicuous place on the sign or on the business premises with which the sign is associated.
However, the failure of the City to identify the sign owner shall not relieve the property owner
from the requirements of this section.
B. Non conforming Sign Permits.
1. Eligibility. A non conforming sign permit may be issued only in accordance with the
standards listed in this chapter.
2. Permit Required. A non conforming sign permit is required for all eligible non-
conforming signs within the City. The sign owner shall obtain the permit within 180 days of
notification by the City and for any panel or copy changes allowed during the grace period.
3. Applications for a non- conforming sign permit shall contain the name and address
of the sign user, the sign owner and the owner of the property upon which the sign is located,
and such other pertinent information as the Director may require to ensure compliance with
this chapter. The Director may waive specific submittal requirements determined to be
unnecessary for review of an application.
4. Permit Issuance. Any person submitting an application for a non conforming sign
permit shall use the forms provided by the Department. The Director shall issue nonconforming
sign permits upon a determination of eligibility The Director may require the filing of plans or
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other pertinent information where such information is necessary to determine compliance with
this chapter. Appeals shall be filed in accordance with Section 19.12.120.
C. Loss of Legal Non conforming Status. Non conforming signs shall either be removed
or immediately brought into compliance with this chapter upon the occurrence of one or more
of the following events:
1. When a non conforming sign permit is required but not obtained within 180 days of
notice of non conformance.
2. When an application is submitted to the City for a project that is subject to design
review, on any non conforming building mounted signs on the premise affected by the
construction and all non conforming free standing signs lose their non conforming status.
3. When any panel or copy changes are proposed after the expiration of the grace
period.
4. When the sign meets the definition of abandoned.
5. Damage of 25 percent or more in the value of either the non conforming sign or the
structure to which it is affixed.
D Maintenance. Ordinary maintenance and repair of a sign shall be permitted without loss
of nonconforming status if the cost of all maintenance and repair over a two -year period is less
than 25 percent of the cost of replacing the sign.
19.36.050 Existing Freeway Interchange Signs. Signs classified as freeway interchange signs
under the previous Sign Code are permitted to remain for a five year grace period starting from
the effective date of this ordinance. During the grace period, freeway interchange signs may
have unlimited refaces and copy changes provided the area, height, and location of the sign
remain unchanged. Relocation or re- erection of the sign during the grace period is not
permitted. Application for a non- conforming sign permit is required for all sign face or copy
changes to a freeway interchange sign. After the grace period has terminated, application for
and issuance of a sign permit that complies with the Sign Code is required for any relocation,
re- erection, alteration, replacement or change in any way to the structure or sign
panel /face /copy
19.36.060 Non Conforming Temporary Signs.
A. Non conforming temporary signs must be removed within 30 days of the adoption of
this code or the expiration of their sign permit, whichever comes first.
B. Commercial real estate signs in existence in the City prior to the adoption of this code
are permitted to remain for up to three months, after which time the signs must be removed
and any future signage must comply with the terms of this code.
19.36.070 Additional Signage Prohibited. No additional permanent building- mounted
signage is permitted on a tenant space that contains a non conforming sign. No additional
permanent freestanding signs are permitted on a premises that contains a non conforming
freestanding sign.
19.36.080 Financial Incentives Tukwila International Boulevard Corridor. In order to
assist with the removal of non conforming signs within the Tukwila International Boulevard
Corridor, the City Council may develop a grant program to provide financial incentives to
property owners and businesses.
1. Applications to the grant program shall be reviewed quarterly and approved by the
Director, subject to the availability of allocated funds.
2. In order to be eligible for grant funding the project must comply with the following
requirements:
a. Sites must be located within the Tukwila International Boulevard
Redevelopment Area, Zoning Code Figure 18 -9.
b. Removal of non conforming signs listed in Section 19.36.030 shall have a higher
priority than removal of non conforming signs listed in Section 19.36.020.
c. Payment of the grant award shall not occur until after the sign has been removed
and properly disposed of.
d. No applicant or business shall receive more than $2,000 from the grant.
e. The Director is hereby authorized to develop written procedures for award and
administration of the grant funds.
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Section 110. TMC Chapter 19.38, "Billboards," hereby reads as follows:
19.38.010 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish regulations for the use of
billboards within the City. The City desires to establish a process that will allow some use of
billboards within certain areas of the City while at the same time working to remove billboards
in areas of the City where the use of such signs is no longer appropriate or desired.
19.38.020 Billboard Receiving Areas Established. New billboards shall only be permitted in
designated receiving areas.
19.38.030 Billboard Sending Areas Established. All areas of the City that are not designated
as receiving areas in TMC 19.38.020 are hereby designated as billboard sending areas, from
which billboards must be removed before construction of the billboard in the receiving area can
commence.
19.38.040 New Billboards. No new billboards, neither digital nor standard, will be
permitted within the City unless the applicant reduces the total number of existing billboards
within the City sending areas.
1. Installing new billboards within designated receiving areas requires securing the
removal of existing billboards within designated sending areas.
2. Table 1 shows the ratio that will be used to determine the number of billboards that
must be removed (cut to or below grade, including removal of the pole structure) within
designated sending area. The ratio outlined in Table 1 shall only be valid for five years
following the effective date of this title. Removal of all billboards included in an application for
a new billboard must be removed before construction can commence on the proposed billboard.
billboard.
Type of Billboard Proposed in
Designated Receiving Area
One Static Billboard Face
One Digital Billboard Face
Type of Sign Proposed in
Designated Receiving Area
One Static Billboard Face
One Digital Billboard Face
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Table 1
d. Billboards shall not exceed a height of 35 feet.
Number of Billboard Faces That Must Be
Removed Within Designated Sending Areas
Three billboard faces
Five billboard faces
3. Five years after the effective date of this code, the ratio outlined in Table 1 shall
expire and the ratio in Table 2 shall be used to determine the number of billboards that must be
removed with designated sending areas in order to install a billboard within designated
receiving areas. Removal of all billboards included in an application for a new billboard must be
completed before construction can commence on the proposed billboard in the application.
Table 2
Number of Billboards That Must Be
Removed Within Designated Sending Areas
Five billboard faces
Seven billboard faces
4. The following requirements shall apply to new billboards within designated
receiving areas:
a. No more than two faces are permitted for each billboard structure.
b. Area of an individual face shall not exceed 500 square feet. The area of a face can
be increased to up to 672 square feet if the billboard operator agrees to make the billboard
available for public service announcements and emergency alerts. Public service
announcements shall include, but not be limited to, advertising for civic events such as Tukwila
Days and the Backyard Wildlife Fair, To oualifv for the billboard area increase a billboard
provider must provide a total of 28 days of messaee time for civic events. Emergency alerts
shall include those messages necessitating the immediate release of information pertaining to
the protection and preservation of public safety Emergency alerts include, but are not limited,
Amber Alerts and emergency evacuation orders. The Director of Community Development,
working with the Director of Public Works, Director of Parks and Recreation, Police Chief, and
Fire Chief, shall develop administrative rules that shall be used for public service and
emergency alerts. The rules shall specify requires message duration and length of display for
both public service announcements and emergency alerts.
c. Billboards shall be spaced at least 500 feet away from any existing or proposed
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e. No portion of the billboard shall be within ten feet of any adjacent right of way.
f. No portion of the billboard's foundation shall be within 15 feet of the adjacent
right of way. The billboard shall meet any required side or rear setback in the zone in which it is
located.
g_—) Lighting of billboards:
la) The billboard may be illuminated; non digital billboards shall utilize
lights which shine directly on the sign structure. Digital billboards shall not operate at a
brightness level of more than .3 foot candles above ambient light as measured using a foot
candle meter at a pre -set distance as outlined in Table 3.
Table 3
Billboard Style 1 Dimensions I Measurement Distance I
Posters I 12 x 24 feet 1 150 feet
Bulletins I 14 x 48 feet 1 250 feet
2b) Each display must have a light sensing device that will adjust the
brightness as ambient Light conditions change.
3e) The technology currently being deployed for digital billboards is LED
(light emitting diode), but there may be alternate, preferred and superior technology available
in the future. Any other technology that operates under the maximum brightness stated in
Table 3 above shall be permitted.
4d) If a digital display is proposed, the rate of change for the sign shall not
exceed a frequency of more than once every 8 seconds. every minute. The- Diieetel -ef -DCD and
the -Di eeter of PW shall- she- authei ty- te- asedify the- i ef-eha ge if the applieant
provides sufficient documentation that a more frequext -rate of change will net-pesa F. safety risk
te-aljeccnt _16 :It-le have-any doeu- aneratat }en provided-by the
applicant r :cviewed by a third party and the applicant requc,ting to install the billbeattl
shall pay the full cost for the third par:, 1: ::::13C shall the DCD PW Dir =_t$r
p: :z-it IT. te- ef- eharlge- that-is- mere- freque nt- than -enee --very six -seeends:
5e) One sign, 8.5 square feet in size shall be permitted to be attached to the
billboard. The sign can only be used to identify the operator of the billboard. Address or
billboard identification numbers are permitted and shall not exceed an area of three square feet.
5. Billboard Placement. Street Tree Pruning.
A. Upon application to place a billboard within a designed receiving area, the City and
the applicant shall work to determine a billboard location that will not be visually obscured
either now or in the future by surrounding street trees. If 'placement of the billboard cannot be
accomplished which will avoid conflicts between the billboard and current or future street trees
Pruning of the street trees is Permitted. provided.
1. The applicant obtains a street use permit from the Citv's Public Works
Department. The purpose of the permit is to regulate the manner by which the trees will be
Pruned, such as lane closures. sidewalk closures. etc.
2. All pruning is done by the applicant and all cost is borne entirely by the
applicant.
3. All pruning activities are supervised by a certified Arborist and all pruning
complies with ANSI A300 as currently written or as may be amended.
4. Only those street trees on or adiacent to the property where the billboard is
located are eligible for pruning.
5. In the event of death of the tree(s) as a result of the pruning activities. the
applicant shall be responsible for paving the landscape value of the tree(s) as determined by a
certified arborist or landscaping architect.
19.38.050 Refurbishing Existing Billboards. Existing billboards within designated sending
areas may be refurbished and upgraded, subject to the following standards:
1. The refurbished billboard must remain on the same premise.
2. The applicant shall demonstrate that the billboard that is being refurbished was
legally installed.
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3. The number of faces for the billboard remains the same or is reduced from the
existing billboard.
4. The height of the billboard may not be increased.
5 Setbacks for the billboard remain unchanged. If the setbacks do not comply with
setbacks for the underlying zoning, the billboards can be relocated provided they come closer to
complying with the required setbacks. In no case shall the billboard be moved closer to a
property zoned LDR, MDR or HDR.
6. Non digital billboards cannot be refurbished or upgraded to either be tri- vision or
digital displays.
7. Improvement of lighting is permitted. Foot candles produced by the billboard may
not extend offsite.
8. Additional signage may be attached to sign provided it complies with TMC Section
19.38.040.H.
9. Area of an individual face shall not exceed 500 square feet. The area of a face can be
increased to up to 672 square feet if the billboard operator agrees to make the billboard
available for public service announcements and emergency alerts. Public service
announcements shall include, but not be limited to, advertising for civic events such as Tukwila
Days and the Backyard Wildlife Fair. Emergency alerts shall include those messages
necessitating the immediate release of information pertaining to the protection and preservation
of public safety Emergency alerts include, but are not limited, Amber Alerts and emergency
evacuation orders. The Director of Community Development, working with the Director of
Public Works, Director of Parks and Recreation, Police Chief, and Fire Chief, shall develop
administrative rules that shall be used for public service and emergency alerts. The rules shall
specify required message duration and length of display for both public service announcements
and emergency alerts.
19.38.060 Application Materials for Billboards within the City. All applications to install a
billboard shall include the following:
1. Three copies of completed and signed application form provided by the City
2. Three copies of a dimensioned and scaled site plan showing property lines, streets,
buildings, parking areas and proposed location of the billboard. The site map shall clearly show
the location of the billboard footings and the edge of the billboard structure. Generally, the City
will not require site plans to be prepared by a licensed surveyor; however, the City shall have
the authority to require a site plan prepared by a Washington State Licensed Surveyor, if such
site plan will assist in the City's review of the proposed application.
3. Three copies of a vicinity map showing the location and distance in feet of any other
billboards located within 600 feet.
4. Three copies of scaled and dimensioned drawings of the proposed billboard. The
drawing shall also indicate if the billboard will be a static or digital billboard.
5 Three sets of scaled and dimensioned footing design and height calculations.
6. Specific location of billboards proposed to be removed in compliance with Section
19.38.040 three sets of structure calculations.
7 If a digital billboard is proposed, a site plan shall be provided showing proposed
foot -candle distribution pattern.
8. If the rate of change on a digital billboard is proposed to exceed the permitted rate of
change found in Section 19.38.040 G, the applicant shall provide three sets of a traffic safety
study specific to the proposed location of the digital billboard. The study shall examine specific
traffic impacts of the proposed digital billboard, including potential distraction to motorists and
impact to traffic flows. The City Engineer may request that additional factors be examined
based on specific site issues.
9 Fee as established in the most current fee schedule.
10. One copy of a valid Washington State contractor's license or owner's affidavit.
11. Tukwila business license number for the sign contractor, if applicable.
Section 11. Signs Prohibited within the Right-of -Way. All regulations re the
placement of signs within the City's Right of Wav as codified at TMC Section 11.24.070.B. are
hereby repealed.
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Page 29 of 30
47
48
_Section 121. Repealer. Ordinance Nos. 1274, 1617, 1649, 1770 (part), 1773, 1838 §17, 1857,
1892, 1913, 1964, 1982, 1995 §1(part), 2004, 2019, 2096, and 2126, are hereby repealed.
Section 132. 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 143. 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 2010.
ATTEST/ AUTHENTICATED:
Christy O'Flaherty, CMC, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY
Office of the City Attorney
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Jim Haggerton, Mayor
Filed with the City Clerk:
Passed by the City Council:
Published:
Effective Date:
Ordinance Number
Attachments: A Definitions with photographic examples
B Sign height drawing
C Sign placement drawing
D Map of Billboard Receiving Area (West Valley Hwy)
E Map of Billboard Receiving Area (Boeing Access and East Marginal Way
South).
Page 30 of 30
Attachment A Definition Samples Signs
"Awning /Canopy Side Sign" means a sign which is applied to or mounted on the side of an awning or
canopy, contained completely within the end area and oriented perpendicular to the building wall
surface.
"Awning /Canopy Sign, Under" means a sign which is suspended from an awning, canopy or arcade but
does not extend beyond the horizontal limits of the awning, canopy or arcade structure.
"Awning Face Sign" means a sign applied to the main face of an awning, including sloped and vertical
surfaces.
"Cabinet Sign" means a geometrically shaped sign with a translucent face backlit by an internal light
source.
"Canopy" means a rigid structure projecting from the face of a building above a window, entrance, or
storefront opening, providing weather rotection.
49
50
Attachment A Definition Samples Signs
"Canopy Edge Sign" means a sign mounted along or above the edge of a canopy and oriented parallel to
the building wall.
"Corner Projecting Sign" means a tall, vertically oriented sign which projects from a building corner and
which is structurally integrated into the building.
"Monument Sign" means a sign supported by at least two posts or columns or with a base that extends
at least 75% of the sign panel length. Monument signs may also consist of painted text or channel letters
mounted on a freestanding seating wall or retaining wall where the total height of the structure meets the
limitations of this Code.
FOSTER CREEK
7 i 7
206- 248 -299S'
Attachment A Definition Samples Signs
"Pole Banner" means a fabric banner sign attached to a street or parking lot light pole.
"Projecting Sign" means a permanent sign which is perpendicular to the building facade and which is
suspended from a bracket, armature, or which is cantilevered to the building.
"Window Sign" is a sign which is applied to a window or mounted or suspended directly behind a
�n i ndo \AT.
"Window Sign, Temporary is a sign which is applied directly to a window or mounted or suspended
directly behind a window and is designed, constructed, and intended for display on real property for not
more than 30 days per calendar quarter for any particular sign.
51
52
c
cm
0
'o
0
rn
a)
al
1
Attachment B
LLJ
II MOM graaaal la mamma
40'
40'
Standard Sight Distance
May be modified by
City Engineer
co
40'
....a. a a...
1-1C;UUSS 01111 IIS
all turning motions
mama/a tra•••■• a
Right Out Only
•••••11 al•••• 1110.1.•
Mai.= 11112■0101 MOON= MN.= I•••••1
Public Road
Center of Intersection
of private access to
public street
Public Road
Sign placement m ust com ply
with setback requirements of
sign code
Center of Intersection
of private access to
rii hlir efrrainf
54
TU
w
a
Attachment D
City of Tukwila
Billboard
Receiving
Area ft
GIS
IfkONT
170'
City of Tukwila
Billboard
Receiving
Area -11-
r=100IT
oeing Access
56
ATTACHED IS THE INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM AND
MATRIX ATTACHMENT THAT WAS CONTAINED IN THE
JUNE 28, 2010 AGENDA PACKET FOR THE SIGN CODE ISSUE.
57
58
TO:
BACKGROUND
City of Tukwila
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
Mayor Haggerton
Community Affairs and Parks
FROM: Nora Gierloff, Deputy DCD Director
DATE: June 4, 2010, Revised June 22, 2010
SUBJECT: Sign Code Update
ISSUE
In 2007, the City Council identified a need to update the City's sign code because only
piecemeal changes had been made since it was adopted in 1982. The Council realized that a
complete rewrite was needed in order for the code to reflect changes to the City and the legal
environment over the past 28 years, including the requirement that the code be content neutral.
Over the past two years staff has worked with an advisory Committee and the Planning
Commission to develop a Planning Commission Recommended Draft Sign Code which has
been forwarded to the City Council for their review and consideration.
Jim Haggerton, Mayor
On June 28, 2010, the City Council as a whole will receive their first briefing on the Planning
Commission Recommended Draft Sign Code and gather public comments at a hearing. The
Council may then work with staff to determine an appropriate process for review of the Draft
Sign Code.
Here is an overview of the public involvement process that was used to develop the draft code
Public participation and public outreach have been cornerstones of the update process.
Sian Code Advisory Committee
Given the significant impacts that signs have on the community, the City Council established a
Sign Code Advisory Committee (hereafter: Committee) to assist in the update process. Council
Resolution 1656 established the Committee and specified that the Committee must include two
Councilmembers, one Planning Commission member, three residents and two business
representatives.
The Committee conducted six meetings to provide input on various issues related to regulating
signage within the City. Topics discussed included permanent signage, temporary signage,
billboards, and freeway interchange signs. The meetings were open to the public and staff
invited interested parties to come to the meetings to address any concerns, provide
recommendations, or provide suggested courses of actions.
Joint Meetina of the City Council and the Plannina Commission
The work of the Committee culminated in a report titled, "Sign Code Advisory Committee Policy
Recommendations" (This report can be found in the Legislative Binder under the tab labeled as
"Attachment A On January 29, 2009, a joint meeting of the City Council and Planning
Commission was held to brief both bodies on the completed work of the Committee. Both the
59
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
City Council and the Planning Commission expressed general support for the recommendations
provided by the Committee, but were interested in more specific details.
Plannina Commission Review
Following the joint meeting, the Planning Commission conducted four workshops to review in
detail the proposed recommendations of the Committee. It was at this time that the vision of the
Committee began to be laid out into formal code language. The Planning Commission was
supportive of the recommendations of the Committee and made only minor changes.
In spring of 2010, the Planning Commission was presented a Public Review Draft Sign Code for
their review and consideration. On March 25, 2010, the Planning Commission held a public
hearing on the proposed code. Testimony was received from Westfield Southcenter, Bob
Schofield, and the King County Realtors Association. Following the meeting the PC
incorporated some of the public comments into their draft. On April 22, 2010, the Planning
Commission adopted a motion recommending a Planning Commission Draft Sign Code to the
City Council.
An index which contains the legislative record used to develop the Planning Commission
Recommended Draft Sign Code is included with this packet as Attachment C. The binder
contains a report entitled, "Sign Code Advisory Committee Policy Recommendations under Tab
A. Also included are documents that were reviewed by the Sign Code Advisory Committee,
documents reviewed by the Planning Commission, and written comments provided to the
Planning Commission.
Other Public Participation
In addition to the work with the Committee and the Planning Commission, Planning Staff has
been working to engage other interested parties in the update process.
The following actions were completed by staff:
1. Briefing to the Hwy 99 Action Committee (now known as the Tukwila International Blvd
Action Committee) prior to the formation of the Sign Code Committee. Staff used this
briefing to address sign issues on Tukwila International Blvd (TIB) and to solicit
interested parties who might want to serve on the Sign Committee.
2. The Hazelnut was utilized on several occasions to notify businesses and residents about
the update and to solicit members to serve on the Committee. Additionally, notification
on the creation of the Sign Committee was published in the Highline Times.
3. Briefing to the Hwy 99 Action Committee on the recommendations of the Sign Code
Committee including specific impacts to TIB.
4. Briefing to the Government Affairs Committee of the Southwest King County Chamber of
Commerce on the recommendations of the Sign Code Committee.
5. Staff met with the Westfield Southcenter representatives on several occasions.
6. Staff met with representatives from Clear Channel Outdoors, one of the largest outdoor
advertising companies in the Country.
7. Staff met La Pianta to discuss the impacts of the draft sign code on Tukwila South.
8. The City sent a letter to Westfield Southcenter requesting specific input on any proposed
changes they would like to see regarding the new sign code.
9. Notices were sent to all sign contractors who have done work in the City in the last three
years informing them of the availability of the draft sign code, inviting their input and
providing notice of the March public hearing.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 3
10. A letter was sent to parties of record requesting specific input on the recommendations
of the Committee.
11. Throughout the entire update process the City has utilized a webpage to keep interested
parties informed of the update process. The webpage included a link that allowed
people to be added to a contact list. Prior to meetings of the Committee, emails were
sent out to interested parties informing them of the topics of the upcoming meetings.
The Committee's documents were placed on the website.
Overview of Draft Sian Code
The new sign code, which will replace the existing Title 19 of the Tukwila Municipal
Code, contains 11 chapters. The following is a brief overview of the contents of the
chapters.
A matrix that compares that current sign code to the Planning Commission
Recommended Sign Code is included as Attachment B.
1 Intent
The first chapter reflects the intent language that was drafted by the Committee and
edited by the Planning Commission.
2. Definitions
The second chapter defines terms that are referenced in the new Sign Code. Photos
are used to illustrate certain definitions.
3. Administration
The next chapter is the administration section which outlines when sign permits are
required, what types of signs are prohibited, what notices the City will send, how to
appeal a decision and how the City will enforce violations of the Code. As a reminder,
consistent with the current sign code only those signs that are "discernible" from the
public right of way, adjacent premise, or an adjacent off -site business are regulated by
the sign code.
4. Construction, Maintenance, and Removal of Signs
The fourth chapter includes requirements for the construction, structural review and
maintenance of signs. In keeping with current practice all permanent signs must have a
final inspection to be considered legally installed. This ensures that they were safely
constructed in accordance with the approved permit. Language regarding the removal
of "abandoned" signs has also been included.
5. Permanent Signs
This chapter includes sign regulations regarding the number, size and placement of
permanent signs within both residential and non residential zones. The current sign
code only allows two main types of permanent signs, flush mounted wall signs and
freestanding signs. One of the goals of the sign code update was to expand the sign
types allowed within the City and in this chapter ten permanent sign types are permitted
under different conditions.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 4
The draft also moves away from pole signs as recommended by the Committee and
instead allows monument signs. Also, tall "freeway interchange" signs will no longer be
permitted.
In a change from the current code, there is no specific limit on the number of signs that
may list a certain business, in keeping with the goal of content neutrality. A building and
site will qualify for a certain number of signs based on length of street frontage, number
of building entrances and building design. The only limitation on the text of the signs is
that they reference on- premise businesses, products or uses.
Finally, language to allow banners attached to parking lot light standards has been
added. This type of signage was not discussed by the Committee; however staff and the
Planning Commission wanted to include the language for consideration. These can help
to bring color and interest to parking lots as well as create an identity for a center.
6. Temporary Signs
The sixth chapter covers the number, size and placement of temporary signs. These
signs may be commercial or non commercial in nature. Like the permanent sign section,
the regulations regarding temporary signs are divided between residential and non-
residential zones.
The Committee proposed and the Planning Commission supported allowing certain
temporary signs for large special events in order to facilitate movement of automobile
and pedestrian traffic.
7. Variances
The variance process and criteria are similar to the language found in the current sign
code.
8. Master Sign Program
The proposed master sign program language would provide a voluntary process to allow
for adaptation of the standard provisions of the Sign Code to the needs of larger sites.
The Committee was supportive of the concept, but had not reviewed specific criteria for
the master sign program. The language found in the chapter reflects language reviewed
and adopted by the Planning Commission.
A site will qualify for the master sign program if it is at least 15 acres and has a minimum
total building area of 200,000 square feet. Sites eligible for the master sign program
include Westfield Mall, Boeing, Southcenter Square, and Parkway Supercenter.
Additionally, uses that provide emergency services (i.e hospital emergency rooms, etc.)
where public safety may be jeopardized by strict compliance with the sign code will also
be eligible for the master sign program.
Master sign programs that propose to vary the size, number or location of otherwise
permissible signs would be reviewed administratively by the Director. Programs that
propose to allow unique sign types or signs not otherwise permissible under this Code
would be reviewed by the Board of Architectural Review. The additional sign types that
B. Miles
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 5
could be allowed by the BAR are roof signs, taller monument signs, parking structure
incentive signs and larger wall signs
Master Sign Programs must also include a plan for the removal of any existing
nonconforming signs on the premises within three years.
9. Non Conforming Provisions
The next chapter includes non conforming provisions of the draft code. These
recommendations were supported by both the Committee and the Planning
Commission.
A. Signs that are currently legal but would become non conforming under
the new code would have a 10 year grace period to come into
compliance, during which they would be allowed to have copy /face
changes. After the grace period they could remain but would need to
come into compliance at the time of a copy /face change.
B. Older currently non conforming signs, such as those installed to King
County code in our annexation areas, could remain indefinitely but would
need to come into compliance at the time of a copy /face change.
C. Freeway interchange signs would have a 5 year grace period to come
into compliance during which they would be allowed to have copy /face
changes. After the grace period they could remain but would need to
come into compliance at the time of a copy /face change.
D. A program to provide financial incentives to encourage the removal of
non conforming signs along the TIB Corridor has been proposed.
Staff is proposing that a no -fee permit be required for signs that would be non-
conforming to the new code. This permit will ensure that property owners and
businesses are made aware of the limitations placed on making modifications to their
non conforming signs.
10. Billboards
The chapter would establish billboard receiving areas within the City.
The billboard receiving areas being proposed are:
Along West Valley Hwy at S. 180 and south to the City Limits.
Along East Marginal Way, north of Boeing Access road
Within these receiving areas, static and digital billboards can be installed, provided that a
minimum number of existing billboards within the City are removed. For example, to
install a digital billboard in a receiving area would require the removal of at least five
existing billboards. Specific development standards are provided for new billboards,
including minimum spacing.
The chapter also sets up provisions to allow reconditioning of existing billboards within
the City that are not proposed to be removed.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
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DISCUSSION
11. General Provisions
The final chapter of the sign code is the general provisions chapter. This chapter is
essentially a "catch all" for certain legal statements that need to be included in the new
sign code.
The next step in the update process is for the City Council to start their review of the Planning
Commission Recommended Draft Sign Code. The City Council will have an opportunity to hear
from the public on the draft sign code at the hearing. Prior comments from the Planning
Commission public hearing are included in the legislative binder. The extensive public process
used has created a product that reflects the needs and desires of the community while also
providing businesses and residents with the ability to have much needed signage.
Staff would like specific input from the City Council on the process and level of review they
would like in moving forward on the draft sign code. Some options include:
1) Staff could prepare a matrix of the public comments received at the June 28 hearing for the
Council's review at the July 6, 2010 Regular Council meeting. Council could then identify the
comments they would like to incorporate into the final version of the code as well as any areas
where they would like staff to develop new alternatives or approaches. Staff would then come
back to the Council with revised language at a future Committee of the Whole meeting.
2) In lieu of going to the July 6 th meeting, staff could schedule one, 2 -hour work session on the
Planning Commission draft. At the work session, Council could review the matrix of public
comments received as part of the public hearing and identify possible changes. After the work
session, the proposed sign code would go back to a Committee of the Whole meeting for
discussion before going to a Regular Council meeting for possible adoption.
3) The draft provided by the Planning Commission could be acted upon by the City Council at
the July 6, 2010 Regular Council meeting.
RECOMMENDATION
The Committee of the Whole is being asked to conduct and close the public hearing at tonight's
meeting and then select one of the review process options listed above.
As always, DCD staff is available to meet with City Council members to walk through the draft
sign code or to answer any questions. Please contact Nora Gierloff or Brandon Miles to arrange
time to meet.
ATTACHMENTS
A. Ordinance in draft form
B. Matrix Comparing Current Sign Code to the Planning Commission Recommended Sign
Code.
C. Legislative Binder Index
B. Miles Page 6 06/24/2010
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SIGN CODE UPDATE
The following matrix compares the current Sign Code to the Planning Commission Draft Recommended Sign Code.
Permanent Sians in Commercial /Industrial Zones
Item
Type of Permanent
Signs Permitted
Total number of
Signs Permitted per
business.
Number of wall signs Two, if the businesses are not listed on any freestanding
allowed signs.
Size of Flush In most cases based on the following table.
Mounted Wall Signs
Existing Sign Code Draft Sign Code
Only allows freestanding signs and flush mounted wall
signs.
Two total, a business may be listed on one freestanding
sign and one flush mounted wall sign or be listed on two
flush mounted wall signs.
Area (LXH) of Exposed
Building Face (EBF) in Square
Feet
0 -500
501 -1500
1501 -3000
3001 -5000
B. Miles
Permitted Sign Area
EBF x 05 or 20 sq ft
(EBF -500) X 04 +25sf
(EBF -1500) X 03
65sf
(EBF -3000) X 02
+110sf
Expands the type of signs permitted within the City, including projecting signs, grand
Projecting signs, and blade signs.
Depends on the circumstances of the property and the tenant's space. However, in most
cases the number of signs for a business has been expanded. Each public entrance of a
business will qualify for a building mounted sign. Building mounted signage is also allowed as
an incentive for providing transparency and architectural detailing. Pedestrian oriented
signage is allowed outright. Projecting signs and corner projecting signs are permitted in
addition to other signage. The number of freestanding signs will be independent of the
number of building mounted signs. There is no restriction on the number of freestanding
signs a business can be listed on provided the property qualifies for placement of
freestanding signs.
Depends on the circumstances of the property and the tenant's space. However, in most
cases the number of signs for a business has been expanded Each public entrance of a
business will qualify for a building mounted sign. Building mounted signage can also be
provided as a reward for providing transparency and architectural detailing. Pedestrian
oriented signage is allowed outright. Projecting signs and corner projecting signs are
permitted in addition to other sicnaoe.
The sign area table in the current sign code will be used in the new sign code. The provision
for a 50% increase for each doubling of the required setback as been removed. Properties
that qualify for the Master Sign Program may have wall sign area of 6% of the wall area up to
250 square feet or 500 square feet, depending on the type of the business.
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Type of
Freestanding Sion
Number of
Freestanding Signs
Area of freestanding
sign
Over 5000 1 150 sf maximum size
Permitted
Some businesses can qualify for up to a 50 percent
increase in the area of the sign for each doubling of the
required front setback; however in no case shall the sign
exceed 6 percent of the wall area.
No restrictions, pole signs and monument signs are
permitted.
Most properties are allowed one. An additional sign is
permitted if the property has at least 400 feet of linear
frontage along a public street, the site has at least two
detached commercially, occupied buildings, and the site is
occupied by at least two tenants.
Based on the length of street frontage.
A premise with up to 200 feet is allowed one
freestanding sign with an area of not more than 50
square feet per side with a total of 100 square foot
for all sides.
A premise between 200 and 400 feet is allowed
one sign with an area of not more than 75 square
feet per side with a total of 150 square feet for all
sides.
A premise over 400 feet is allowed one sign with
an area of not more than 100 square feet with a
total of 200 square feet for all sides.
B Miles
The proposed sign code moves to "monument only for most properties. Properties that
qualify for the Master Sign Program may have grand monument signs (up to 35 feet tall).
For properties with less than 800 feet of frontage on a public street only one monument sign
is permitted. A property with 800 feet of linear frontage is permitted two signs with an
additional sign being permitted for every 400 feet with no maximum on the number of signs.
Still based on the total frontage along the street:
I Total ROW of
Premise
400 feet
400 -599 feet
600 -799 feet
800 -999 feet
1000 feet and
over
Allowable Sign I Total Allowable
Message Area Sign Size
36 sf per 54 sf per
side/72 sf total side /108 sf total
50 sf per 70 sf per
side /100 sf total side /140 sf total
60 sf per 80 sf per
side /120 sf total side /160 sf total
66 sf per 88 sf per
side /132 sf total side /176 sf total
72 sf per 196 sf per
side /144 sf total side /192 sf total
Area not used for sign message may be used for architectural detail or design elements to
link the sign to the associated building(s).
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Height of No taller than 35 feet tat, provided the sign is not taller
Freestanding Signs than the building it is used to advertise.
Setbacks of
Freestanding Signs
Freeway
Interchange Signs
Dynamic Signs
Master Sign
Program
Regional Gateway
Sign
One foot for every foot in height from all property lines.
For example, a ten foot tall sign would need to be ten feet
from at property lines.
One allowed on a premise that provides goods and
services to the traveling public and is located near an off
ramp.
Signs that change more than once every 24 -hours are
considered dynamic displays and are not permitted in the
City
Not included in current sign code.
Not included in current sign code.
B Miles
Total ROW of I Maximum
Premise Height
400 feet 16 feet
400 -599 feet 17 feet
600 -799 feet 17 feet
800 -999 feet 8 feet
1000 feet and 8 feet
over
Minimum of five feet from all property lines, must comply with Sight Distance Triangle.
Not permitted under proposed draft.
Video like images are still not permitted on signage; however mechanical displays, flashing
and chasing lights may be permitted for projecting signs.
Large properties can enter into a master sign program with the City The idea is that these
properties may have sign needs that are unique that cannot easily be addressed in the sign
code. The Master Sign Program allows:
An increase in the size of monument signs;
Aggregation of building mounted or freestanding signs into fewer, larger signs;
Roof Top signs in the TUC Zone,
Grand Monument Signs;
Parking Structure Incentive Signage, and
Provisions for larger wall signs for landmark businesses
Allowed as a means to attract and welcome people to the Southcenter Area of the City Only
allowed on a property adjacent to two interstate highways and only permitted via a
Development Agreement.
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Temporary Sians in Commercial /Industrial Zones
Item
Banners or Rigid
Signs
Length of Display of
Temporary Signs
Placement of
Temporary Signs
Special Event Signage
(i.e. balloons,
pennants, etc)
Portable Signs
Existing Sign Code
The total area of all temporary signs displayed under a
permit may not exceed a total of 64 square feet in sign
face area. Limit of two temporary signs.
30 -days a calendar quarter
Not in right of way. No specific language on location.
Only allowed for grand openings.
I Strictly Forbidden
Permanent Sians in Residential Zones
Item I Existing Sign Code
Who gets permanent Churches, conditional uses, public facilities and multiple
signs in residential family complexes are permitted permanent signage.
zones? The existing code provides specific requirements based
on the exact use.
Types of signage I Flush mounted wall signs and freestanding signs.
permitted
Total Number of Signs Churches, conditional uses and public facilities are
Allowed permitted one wall sign and one freestanding sign
outright. An additional sign is permitted for each
B. Miles
Draft Sign Code
No Change.
No Change.
The sign must be securely attached either to the wall if located on the building, or securely
tied to stakes located in a landscaped area. Display of signs in any other manner is strictly
forbidden (i.e. tied to trees).
Each business in the City is permitted a special event once every 24 months. No restriction
on the type of event.
Not permitted, except for use during special, large events for crowd and/or traffic control when
approved by the City
Draft Sign Code
Substantively no change, conditional uses, schools, churches and public facilities will be
considered "institutional" uses. Multi- family will also be permitted signage. Multi- family is
considered as having at least five or more units.
The proposed code makes no distinction on allowable signage based on use.
No Change
All institutional uses and multi family developments are allowed at least one wall sign and
freestanding monument sign. An additional freestanding monument style sign is permitted
for each street that provides access to the premise.
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Maximum size of flush
mounted wall sign.
Dynamic Signs
Type of Freestanding
Sign Allowed
Area of freestanding
sign
Height of Freestanding
Signs
Setbacks of
Freestanding Signs
Temporary Sians
item
Banners or Rigid
Signs
Length of Display of
Temporary Signs
Placement of
Temporary Signs
Special Event Signage
(i e balloons,
pennants, etc)
Portable Signs
additional frontage.
50 square feet is allowed outright.
Currently not permitted. Foster High School was issued
a sign permit under a previous code provision that
sunset.
No restrictions, pole signs and monument signs are
permitted.
For churches, schools and public facilities that max is 50
square feet; for multi family developments the total is 32
square feet.
16 feet for churches, schools, and public facilities and 5
feet for multi family developments.
8 feet for churches, schools, and public facilities and 5
feet for multi family developments.
in Residential Zones
Existing Sign Code
The total area of at temporary signs displayed under a
permit may riot exceed a total of 64 square feet in sign
face area. Limit of two
30 -days a calendar quarter
Not in right of way No specific language on location.
Only allowed for grand openings.
Strictly Forbidden
B. Miles
Like in commercial /industrial zones a formula is used based on the area of the wall;
however in no case shall the sign be greater than 50 square feet.
Would be allowed for any sign permitted in residential zones The sign will have to comply
with the same standards as the sign at Foster High School.
Monument Only
Maximum size is 30 square feet for one face and 60 square feet for all faces.
5 feet for all signs.
No minimum setback, must meet sight distance triangle requirement.
Draft Sign Code
No change.
No Change.
The sign must be securely attached either to the wall if located on the building, or securely
tied to stakes located in a landscaped area. Display of signs in any other manner is strictly
forbidden (i.e. tied to trees). Must be setback at least five feet from property lines.
Each institutional and multi- family complex may have up to 12 special event signage
permits per year The duration of the permit shall not exceed 72 hours.
Not permitted, except for use during special, large events for crowd and /or traffic control
when approved by the City
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Miscellaneous Code Provisions
Item
Removal of
Abandoned Signs
Non Conforming
Provisions
Existing Sign Code
The Director may order the removal or maintenance of
any sign that is not maintained in a safe orderly
condition,
Or
If a non conforming sign suffers more than 50 percent
damage or deterioration, based on an appraisal.
Any proposed face or copy change to a non conforming
signs requires conformance with the code.
B. Miles
Draft Sign Code
Definition of abandoned sign specifically provided:
"Abandoned Sign" means any sign that advertises a business, lessor, owner, product,
service or activity that has not been located on the premises where the sign is displayed for
60 days or more or a sign cabinet where the face has been broken or missing for 30 days or
more.
Director has authority to order the removal of any abandoned sign.
Various non conforming provisions are provided
1 Signs that do not comply with the existing sign code required to come into
conformance for any proposed face or copy changes. This code provisions is the
same as the current sign code.
2. For signs that comply with the existing sign code, a grace period is provided of up to
ten years for most signs. During the grace period there can be an unlimited number
of face changes. After the ten year period, the sign can remain, but any face, copy or
other modifications will require conformance The grace period for freeway
interchange signs will be five years.
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ATTACHED IS THE INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM AND
MATRIX ATTACHMENT THAT WAS CONTAINED IN THE
JULY 12, 2010 AGENDA PACKET FOR THE SIGN CODE ISSUE.
71
72
City of Tukwila
Mon Wig, Owner of Wig Properties
Pam Carter, Resident
Nicholas Lee, Wesfield, LLC
Bob Schofield, Seattle Retail
Karlyne lwata, Property Owner
Jerome Baruffi, Property Owner
W InfoMemos\SignCodeAgain.doc
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor Haggerton
Committee of the Whole
FROM: Nora Gierloff, Deputy DCD Director
DATE: July 2, 2010
SUBJECT: Sign Code Update
ISSUE
Continue deliberations on the Planning Commission Recommended Draft Sign Code.
BACKGROUND
At the June 28, 2010 Committee of the Whole Meeting, staff provided an overview of the
Planning Commission Recommended Draft Sign Code. After Staff's presentation, the City
Council conducted a public hearing and received both written and oral testimony on the Draft
Sign Code.
Testimony was received from the following individuals:
Written (both mailed and emailed) comments were also provided from the following
individuals /groups:
1. Westfield, LLC, dated June 28, 2010
2. James Adams, BECU dated June 28, 2010
3. Jerome Baruffi, 401 Strander, dated June 25, 2010
4. Letter from NW Sign Council dated June 22, 2010
5. Letter from National Sign Co. dated April 22, 2010
Jim Haggerton, Mayor
Following closure of the public hearing, the City Council provided guidance to staff on what
information they wanted to help Council with their deliberations. The following documents are
provided for the Council's review and to supplement the record that was forwarded to the City
Council on June 28, 2010:
1. Matrix of substantive comments, both oral and written, provided to the City Council and
staff's response to those comments, including suggested changes where applicable.
2. Matrix comparing selected cities sign regulations to Tukwila's Draft Sign Code and
existing Sign Code.
3. Example of Digital Display (to be provided at meeting using overhead)
73
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
The Council also inquired about the provisions for use of digital displays in residential zones. It
was the unanimous consensus of the Sign Code Advisory Committee to allow digital displays,
similar to the one found at Foster High School, for institutional uses within residential zones.
The Draft Sign Code, under TMC 19.20.030 provides the same standards that were used for the
Foster High School Sign. These standards are as follows:
One monument sign per premise, as permitted under Section 19.20.030.B, may contain a
dynamic feature. The following design standards apply to all dynamic signs installed under this
section:
seconds.
DISCUSSION
a. The image of the sign may not change more frequently than once every ten
b. The image must appear and disappear as one image. The image may not appear
to flash, undulate, pulse or portray explosions, fireworks, flashes of light, or blinking or chasing
lights, or appear to move toward or away from the viewer, to expand, contract, bounce, rotate,
spin, twist, scroll, travel or otherwise portray movement.
c. Illumination of the dynamic sign is limited to the hours of 7AM to 10PM.
2. Notice of Understanding. The operator of any dynamic sign installed per this
subsection must submit a letter to the Director that states the organization understands and
agrees to abide by the above requirements.
The goal of tonight's meeting is to continue review of the draft sign code and to provide input to
staff on any modifications that Council may want to make regarding the Draft Sign Code. After
tonight's meeting, staff will work on a final ordinance to reflect any changes desired by the
Council and will bring that back to the Committee of the Whole on August 9, 2010 for review.
At the June 28, 2010 meeting, Council indicated that they may want to hear from the public
during their next review of the Draft Sign Code. Since this is a legislative matter the Council
President can choose to allow public input during the deliberation process. While input may be
allowed, it will not be a public hearing.
RECOMMENDATION
Continue to review of the Draft Sign Code and provide input to staff on City Council
modifications. Staff will bring a draft ordinance to the Council for consideration at the August 9,
2010 Committee of the Whole meeting. After the August 9, 2010 meeting the Draft Sign Code,
at the Council's discretion, could be forward to the August 16, 2010 Regular Meeting for
adoption.
ATTACHMENTS
7 4 W InfoMemos\SignCodeAgain.doc
A. Matrix of substantive comments, both oral and written, provided to the City
Council and staff's response to those comments, including suggested changes
where applicable.
B. Matrix comparing selected cities sign regulations to Tukwila's Draft Sign Code
and existing Sign Code.
Comment Matrix with Staff Response
Name and Site
Nicholas Lee, of
Westfield
Southcenter Mall
Comments
Provided comments regarding two items:
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1) Area of Flush Mounted Signage.
The Mall is currently allowed to have wall signs of 6% of the
area of the exposed building face, up to a maximum of 500
square feet. All other commercial buildings in the City are
limited to 150 sf wall signs.
Recommended the following change to the draft code:
TMC 19.32.060 Allowable Modifications Under a Master Sign
Program.
2. Increase in the area of a flush mounted building sign,
allowed per Section 19.20.050.A of up to six percent of
the exposed building face, up to a maximum of 250
square feet, except for sites lar2 than 85 areas where
the maximum shall be 500 square feet.
Staff's Response
Adoption of this sign code will not make any existing signs at
the Mall non conforming. The City and Mall have a
Development Agreement which addresses a wide variety of
issues, including signage. The development agreement will be
valid until 2018 and then the Mall will be subject to the sign
regulations in place at that time. The Mall has noted that they
may wish to "opt" in to the new sign code earlier but that
decision would be purely voluntary by the Mall.
Staff's response to the issues raised by Westfield, assuming
they wish to opt in:
1) Area of Flush Mounted Sianaae.
Westfield brought up this comment to the Planning
Commission (PC) during the PC's review. The PC asked staff
to research the size of existing wall signs at the Mall out of
concern that the original language they were considering would
have made some existing wall signs at the Mall non-
conforming. The PC then adopted language raising the
maximum wall sign size allowed under the master sign
program to 250 sf, accommodating all existing wall signs. It
was both the PC and Staffs understanding that issue of creating
non conforming wall signs at the Mall had been addressed.
Since that time the Mall has proposed a 500 sf sign for the
future Seafood City store.
Properties not eligible for the master sign program are allowed
a wall sign size between 3% and 5% of the wall area, up to a
maximum of 150 square feet. Only those properties that are
eligible for the Master sign program can get 6% up to a
maximum of 250 square feet.
07/07/2010 Page 1 of 14
Comment Matrix with Staff Response
ce
Name and Site Comments
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2) Maximum Area and Height of Grand Monument Signs
Westfield requested that the maximum sign message area be
increased up to 500 square feet and maximum height be
increased up to 115 feet for Grand Monument Signs. They note
that such signage provides needed visibility along I -5 and I-
405.
Recommended the following change to the draft Code:
19.32.060 Allowable Modifications Under a Master Sign
Program.
A. In addition to the above listed modifications, the
following addition sign types maybe allowed with BAR
approval:
2. Grand Monument Signs, subject to the following
standards:
a. Sign message area may be increased up to 100 square
feet per side, 200 square feet total and limitation on
structure size is removed. For sites over 85 acres. the
sign message area may be increased up to 500 square
feet per side. 1000 square feet total.
Staff's Response
Not all tenants at properties eligible for the Master Sign
Program are capped at a maximum of 250 square feet.
Landmark Tenants (Anchor Tenants under the current code) are
given a sign allowance of 6% of the exposed building face up
to 500 feet square feet.
Staff Recommendation
No Change from Planning Commission Draft
2) Maximum Area and Height of Grand Monument Signs
The Sign Code Advisory Committee recommended that tall
signs, such as grand monuments, not be permitted under the
new code. However, staff developed the grand monument
provision and the PC approved it as part of the draft sign code
due to a realization that some properties, such as the Mall,
needed larger signage. During the PC public hearing Westfield
made a request to increase the size and height of grand
monument signs to a greater degree than what they are now
proposing to the City Council.
The sign size proposed by Westfield is larger than any sign
allowed under either the current sign code or the draft sign code
including billboards. The Master Sign Program removes any
limit on the total area of the sign structure, only the message
area is limited. By removing the limit on the area of the sign it
provides property owners flexibility to design a creative, lively
sign that sparks visual interest for people passing by. Sign
message area is not needed to accomplish this goal.
There is no limit on the height of grand monument signs,
provided the signs are not taller than the building they are used
to advertise. As was discussed at the last Council meeting, we
07/07/2010 Page 2 of 14
Comment Matrix with Staff Response
Name and Site Comments
b. Total height of the sign structure may not exceed the
height of the tallest building on the premise, except for
sites over 85 acres. the height may exceed the tallest
building but shall not exceed 115 feet.
James Adams for
BECU Corporate
Office
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Letter requests different standards for corporate headquarters,
defined as large single tenant office campuses with a building
square footage over 100,000 square feet.
Staff's Response
are using the sign code to provide incentives for development
types such as multi -story buildings.
At the last Council meeting reference was made to the sign at
Factoria Square in Bellevue. Staff contacted Bellevue and
reviewed their sign code for sample language regarding mall
signage and/or freeway interchange signs. Factoria Mall and
the tall sign located on the property were annexed into the City.
The existing sign is considered legally non conforming
Bellevue requires amortization of such signs, but the sign is
located along I -405 so it is subject to the Scenic Vistas Act,
which would require compensation for its removal. The City of
Bellevue permits face and copy changes to the sign, provided it
complies with the City's non conforming regulations. A brand
new sign the size of the one in Factoria would not be permitted
in Bellevue.
Finally, the Draft Sign Code provides an avenue for gateway
signage at the Mall. TMC 19.32.080 allows for a Regional
Gateway Sign on a property subject to the Master Sign Program
that is adjacent to two interstate highways. The intent of this
sign is to attract and welcome visitors to the Southcenter area
of the City. This sign could be used to meet Westfield's
concerns that motorists on I -405 and 1 -5 do not see the
property.
Staff Recommendation
No Change from Planning Commission Draft
07/07/2010 Page 3 of 14
Comment Matrix with Staff Response
co
Name and Site Comments
Recommended the following changes to the draft code:
1) Building fascia signage.
Allow signage on all sides of the building. Allow a maximum
of 500 square feet per sign. Signage should be located as high
on the building as possible. Signage may be internally or
externally illuminated.
2) Pylon Signage
If the building only uses 1 or 2 fascia signs it may also have a
pylon sign with message on two surfaces. The pylon sign may
be up to 20 feet taller than the highest point of the main campus
building. The area of the sign would be limited to 200 square
feet.
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3) Entry ID Signage
Since the building's main entry is over 100 feet from the street
it should be allowed a sign identifying the name of the business
Staff's Response
1) Building fascia (wall) signage.
The proposed code does not limit the number of wall signs
permitted per business or their placement on the wall. Each
side of a building that has a public entrance will qualify for a
sign. Signage on walls without entrances can qualify for signs
by providing design elements such as architectural detailing
and transparency. The draft code allows building mounted
signs in commercial zones to be illuminated.
Staff Recommendation
No Change from Planning Commission Draft and Sign
Code Advisory Committee Recommendation
2) Pylon (Pole) Signage
The Sign Code Advisory Committee and the Planning
Commission wanted to de- emphasize tall pylon signs,
especially those taller than their associated buildings. Sign
visibility for tall buildings can be achieved by placing the sign
on the highest portion of the building wall.
Staff Recommendation
No Change from Planning Commission Draft and Sign
Code Advisory Committee Recommendation
3) Entry ID Signage; and
4) Driveway Signage
Under the draft sign code one freestanding sign is allowed for
07/07/2010 Page 4 of 14
Comment Matrix with Staff Response
Name and Site Comments
at the entry. The sign should be pedestrian focused, not higher
on the building than 20 feet above grade and be located within
30 feet of the entrance. Area of the sign would be up to 150
square feet.
Jerome Baruffi
for 401 Strander
professional
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4) Driveway Signage
The property has multiple entrances and each driveway should
be allowed one sign. Overall graphic area of such sign should
not exceed 75 square feet in size.
5) Promotional Signage
Allow temporary signage on the building should be permitted
on each side of the building. Signage is allowed to be up for a
maximum of 120 days. Signage is limited in size to no more
than 50% of the area of the side of the building onto which it is
being displayed.
The current sign code only penults the property to have one
freestanding sign. Since the property has less than 800 feet of
linear frontage on a public street it would qualify for only one
Staff's Response
each 400 linear feet of street frontage. The proposed sign code
would allow BECU to have a seven foot tall sign with a
message area of 60 square feet per side and a total sign area of
80 feet per side. Additionally, TMC 19.12.030 allows for
directional signage that is three feet in height with a message
area of two square feet per face. There is no restriction on the
message on the directional signage.
Staff Recommendation
No Change from Planning Commission Draft and Sign
Code Advisory Committee Recommendation.
5) Promotional Signage (Temporary Signage)
During the review process with the Sign Code Advisory
Committee it was clear that they did not want to provide
avenues for additional temporary signage. The language in the
draft code is largely the same language as the existing sign
code. The only difference is that each business can qualify for
one special event signage every 24 months. This language
replaced the grand opening language found in the existing code.
Under a special permit, an applicant could install signs that
typically would be prohibited under the sign code because they
would be considered "carnival in nature
Staff Recommendation
No Change from Planning Commission Draft and Sign
Code Advisory Committee Recommendation.
Mr. Baruffi's property represents a unique situation. The
property borders on Strander Blvd and Andover Park West but
has less than 800 feet of linear frontage combined on both
07/07/2010 Page 5 of 14
co Comment Matrix with Staff Response
Name and Site Comments
building monument sign under the draft sign code. Mr. Baruffi requests
the ability to install two monument signs.
Northwest Sign The letter is from the Northwest Sign Council which is the
Council, Not Site trade association representing the on- premise sign industry in
Specific the Pacific Northwest.
The letter requested three modifications to the draft sign code:
1) Height of Monument Signs
Request that the maximum height permitted for monument
signs be increased, referenced concems with safety.
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Staff's Response
streets. The site can be accessed from both streets. One of the
goals of the Sign Code Advisory Committee was to provide
more freestanding signage for properties with large frontage
and for corner properties. One of the examples that the
Committee looked at was the Acura site at Andover Park West
and Baker. The Acura property has several access points on
both streets, but under the sign code is only permitted one
freestanding sign. The Committee provided a fix for the
properties similar to the Acura site, but Mr. Baruffi's property
would not benefit from those changes.
Staff Recommendation:
Properties with frontage on two public streets will be
permitted two freestanding signs, provided the following
criteria are met:
1. The property has at least 200 linear feet of frontage
on each street.
2. Each public street provides direct access into the
subject property.
3. The size and height of the sign will be based on the
linear frontage found in Table 1 of TMC 19.20.020.
1) Height of Monument Signs
The proposed sign code will increase the number of
freestanding signs permitted per a premise; however the
07/07/2010 Page 6 of 14
Comment Matrix with Staff Response
Name and Site Comments
2) Non conforming Signs.
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Requested that a uniform date for the start of the grace period
be established in lieu of using the date of the last legal face
change.
Staff's Response
tradeoff for this increase is that signs be smaller and lower to
the ground than pole signs. The idea with reducing the height
of freestanding signs was two fold:
a. Pole signs conflict with street trees and on -site perimeter
landscaping. Both the Sign Code Advisory Committee
and the Planning Commission reviewed photos and
videos that showed this conflict Monument signs
allowed for visibility even when the sign was
surrounded by trees.
b. Visibility can still be achieved with building mounted
signs. The wide range of signs allowed on buildings
can provide visibility needed for businesses.
Finally, properties that are eligible for the Master Sign Program
can install a sign with a height up to the height of the building.
Staff Recommendation
No Change from Planning Commission Draft and
Sign Code Advisory Committee Recommendation.
2) Non conforming Signs
The proposed language allows each property to amortize the
value of the sign before having to remove the sign. As outlined
in the code, compliance with the code is only required if there
is a proposed modification to the sign, such as a face change or
copy change. When the ten year grace period has expired, the
sign can remain with limitations. Adoption of the sign code
will not require immediate removal of signs.
A uniform compliance date would be easier for staff to
administer, however, the trade -off is that it would delay the
gradual removal of signs that do not comply with the sign code.
07/07/2010 Page 7 of 14
Comment Matrix with Staff Response
ti
Name and Site Comments
Letter and
Testimony from
Robert Schofield,
Various
Properties in
Southcenter Area
3) Freeway Interchange Signs
Allow for freeway interchange signs with Council approval by
development agreement outside of the Regional Gateway area.
The letter also references some minor edits to the sign code that
address technical issues such as lighting and brightness. These
suggested comments are minor and staff does intend on
inserting them in the code.
Referenced concern with the monument only provision for
freestanding signs. Noted that it would be harder to see signs
from a moving vehicle if they were placed lower to the ground.
Indicated that businesses located at the rear of properties
needed freestanding signage for visibility.
Proposed creating a sign district from Strander Blvd to S. 188
Street which would allow pylon signs to continue to be used.
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Staff's Response
Staff Recommendation
No Change from Planning Commission Draft and
Sign Code Advisory Committee Recommendation.
3) Freeway Interchange Signs
The Sign Code Advisory Committee expressed concern with
continuing to allow tall signs in the City. As envisioned, the
Regional Gateway sign is not intended as a sign for an
individual business or businesses, but a sign that markets an
entire area. Finally, the language suggested in the letter from
Northwest Sign Council does not need to be in the Code. The
City Council always has the right to entertain Development
Agreements and language to that effect does not need to be in
the Code.
Staff Recommendation
No Change from Planning Commission Draft and
Sign Code Advisory Committee Recommendation.
The proposed sign code will reduce the freestanding sign area
and height for Mr. Schofield's properties. The total number of
freestanding signs allowed for many properties has been
expanded, however Mr. Schofield's properties don't have the
frontage length to use that provision.
The proposed code does allow for additional building mounted
signs, such as projecting signs, which could provide increased
visibility.
If the Council does want to consider allowing pole signs along
07/07/2010 Page 8 of 14
Comment Matrix with Staff Response
Name and Site Comments
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Staff's Response
Southcenter Pkwy, then the number of freestanding signs
permitted under the new sign code should be reduced. The idea
of allowing more freestanding signs for some properties was
balanced with the lower profile of the signs. Allowing
additional pole signs beyond what is permitted under the
existing sign code should not be permitted.
An "opt out" provision could be used to address Mr.
Schofield's properties. Under an "opt out" provision properties
along Southcenter Pkwy could choose to stay under many of
the provisions of the existing sign code. This would allow Mr.
Schofield to still utilize freestanding signs, but would also limit
his properties from taking advantage of additional sign options
and flexibility under the draft code, including the removal of
the cap on business signage, ability to utilize a variety of
building mounted signs, and flexibility on special event
signage.
Staff Recommendation:
No Change from Planning Commission Draft and
Sign Code Advisory Committee Recommendation.
Other Ontion:
An "opt out" provision could be included in the sign
code to allow existing businesses to keep pole signs.
The opt out provision should only apply to
properties fronting along Southcenter Pkwy between
Strander Bvld and S. 180 St (not S. 188th St).
Presentation from Discusses family history in Southcenter Area of the City. No No response needed.
Karlyne Iwata, specific suggestions for sign code.
Properties on
Southcenter Py
07/07/2010 Page 9 of 14
co Comment Matrix with Staff Response
Name and Site Comments
Letter from
National Sign
Company, dated
April 22, 2010,
not site specific
Letter commented on several items:
1. Definition of abandoned sign needs to be re- edited.
2. Directional sign should be increased to 6 square feet per
face.
3. Sign permit apphcations should be completed and
approved within 14 days of submittal and in no case
shall it take more than 60 days to approve.
4. Signs should be valid for 1 year from approval date with
ability to extend 180 days.
5. Any contractor operation within the City without a
business license shall be required to pay a penalty of
$250 and contractors should not have to sign an
affidavit that they have read the City sign code.
6. Height of freestanding signs should be increased to 25
feet and an area to 150 square feet per face outright. A
maximum height of 50 feet and an area of 300 square
feet per face should be allowed under the approval of
the BAR. Monument signs can be up to a maximum of
100 square feet per side and 12 feet in height.
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Staffs Response
1. The definition provided by the Planning Commission
meets the needs of the City. Many cities use a
percentage of value to determine if a sign has been
abandoned. Using valuation is cumbersome and
difficult to work with.
2. The area provided is the same as the current sign code.
An applicant can always use one of their permitted
freestanding signs as a directional sign, provided it
complies with applicable size limitations. The sign
code only regulates those signs that are "discernable"
from the ROW, adjacent properties or off -site
businesses and thus there is no size limit on any signs,
including directional, which are not regulated by the
sign code.
3. The processing time limits are the same as in the
current sign code and are consistent with the time
limitations found in the Zoning Code. Sign permits
are issued on average 5 days after application. The
code has to provide a time limit and staff wants to
keep the time limit consistent with the zoning and
building codes.
4. The limits provided in the draft code are identical to
the building code.
5. The fine amount of $1000 ensures that sign contractors
will not benefit from performing illegal work within
the City.
6. Using the Master Sign Program an applicant can have
two grand monument signs that are no taller than the
building. In some cases, such as the Mall, the height
of the sign will exceed the 50 feet proposed by
National Sign Code. The message area for Grand
Page l0 of 14
Comment Matrix with Staff Response
Name and Site Comments
Testimony of
Pam Carter
regarding
Essential Public
Facilities
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7. Number of freestanding signs should be one sign per
300 feet of frontage with a 2 sign allowed for
properties over 300 feet of frontage on a corner
property.
8. Area of wall signs shall be up to 10 percent of the
building elevation.
Ms. Carter provided testimony regarding the lack of signage at
the Light Rail Station on Southcenter Blvd. Under our current
sign code the Station only qualifies for one freestanding sign.
Staff's Response
Monument Signs is 100 square feet per face, which is
the same maximum for freestanding signs found in the
current code. There is no limit on the area of the sign
structure. The sign area recommended by National
Sign Company exceeds the area limits of the current
sign code.
7. The draft sign code provides more freestanding signs
than the current sign code. Staff is also proposing that
modifications be made to address corner properties,
see staff comments regarding Mr. Baruffi's letter dated
June 25, 2010.
8. The area limits under the draft sign code are
substantially the same as the current sign code. No
entities under the current sign code are permitted a
sign area of more than 6 percent.
Staff Recommendation
No Change from Planning Commission Draft
As part of the update process the Sign Code Advisory
Committee realized that properties that have a significant
street frontage length and corner properties needed
additional signage. Under the draft sign code the Light Rail
Station would qualify for two monument signs. Additional
flexibility could be achieved if essential public facilities,
such as the Light Rail Station, were eligible for the Master
Sign Program.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff proposes that essential public facilities be
allowed to utilize the Master Sign Program.
07/07/2010 Page 11 of 14
Comment Matrix
Staff Proposed
Changes
Monument Signs
Parking Garages
with Staff Response
Issue
Table 1 of TMC 19.20.020 implies that monument signs may
only be located near access points. As written the language
could limit the number of freestanding signs a property could
have, regardless of whether the property has sufficient frontage.
For example if a property has 800 feet of frontage, but only one
street entrance it would only be allowed one freestanding sign.
The Table also notes that only one freestanding sign is
permitted per access point.
Under the draft sign code only parking garages on properties
subject to the Master Sign Program are eligible for signage.
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Staff's Comments/Recommendation
The City strives to limit the number of access points on city
streets to those needed to serve the use. Too many access
points can impact vehicular circulation and hinder pedestrian
movement. Requiring that an access point be present to install
a sign and limiting an access point to one sign could hinder the
City's efforts at access management. Additionally, the lack of
access points for a large property does not mean that there is
not a need for signage on the property.
Staff Recommendation:
Remove the access point requirement for
freestanding signs.
Remove the limit on the number of signs permitted
per access point.
Through the update process we had discussed the idea of
rewarding certain types of development, one of which is the
construction of parking garages. The BECU site includes a
parking garage as does the Group Health property along East
Marginal Way. The draft code provides a very generous sign
allowance for parking garages; however it only applies to those
properties that are eligible for the Master Sign Program.
Moving the incentive signage for parking garages out of the
Master Sign Program would allow BECU, Group Health or any
other parking garage that might be constructed in the City to
utilize the sign incentive. These signs could advertise the
business or be promotional signage as outlined in the BECU
email.
Staff Recommendation:
Allow all parking garages in the City to qualify for
the parking garage incentive signs allowed in the
Master Sign Program
07/07/2010 Page 12 of 14
Comment Matrix with Staff Response
Staff Proposed Issue
Changes
Billboards Staff has been working with billboard companies to address
development issues within the designated receiving areas. The
following issues have come up:
1. Pruning of street trees;
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J
2. Rate of Change for digital display.
3. Size of Billboards and public messages.
Staff's Comments /Recommendation
1. The billboard companies want assurances that a digital
billboard will not eventually be obscured by street trees
after the billboard has been installed. These billboards
require a significant investment and it's important that
they protect the ability to generate a return on their
investment.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff would like to insert language to address this issue.
Ideally billboards should be placed where they will not conflict
with street trees, but if a conflict cannot be avoided, staff
proposes allowing for pruning of street trees.
2. The rate of change proposed in the code for digital
billboards was 1 minute. An applicant could petition
the City to allow a smaller rate of change time but in no
case shall the rate of change exceed 6 seconds.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff is now proposing to tie the rate of change to the 8 second
Washington State Department of Transportation standard. If
WSDOT updates their standard our allowed rate of change
would also change.
3. The draft sign code permits a size increase for
billboards if message area is provided to the City for
civic communication. Additionally, digital billboards
must be available for emergency alert messages, such as
Amber Alerts. The draft code notes that the billboard
company and the Director of DCD will work out the
terms of the City use for the billboards. Staff would
like to insert a specific timeframe for the billboard
07/07/2010 Page 13 of 14
r Comment Matrix with Staff Response
col Staff Proposed Issue
Changes
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Staff's Comments/Recommendation
usage.
Staff Recommendation:
In addition to any emergency messages a billboard company
must provide the City a minimum of 28 days for City use. The
City shall coordinate a yearly schedule with the billboard
company for usage of any billboard(s). Specific administrative
rules will still be created by the DCD Director.
07/07/2010 Page 14 of 14
The following table compares several items within the draft sign code to the sign codes of Federal Way, Fife, Renton, Seatac, and Seattle.
Grand Monument Signs
Draft Sign Code
(Non- Residential)
Are they allowed? Yes, sites over 15 acres
with at least 200,000
square feet of building
face are eligible under
the Master Sign Plan.
Style
Height
Area of Sign
Number of Grand
Monument Signs
Must have a design that
is consistent with the
design of the buildings'
on the site. Single pole
signs are not allowed.
No taller than the
building, with no max
ceiling.
Message area limited to
100 square feet per side,
200 square feet for all
sides. No limit on sign
structure size.
2 outright
Federal Way
(Commercial)
Yes, within certain
zones. Must have a
minimum of 250 feet of
street frontage, multi-
use complex and have
an area of at least 15
acres or more.
Monument or pole signs
are allowed. Pole signs
must use more than one
pole. Other types of
sign styles are listed.
Pylon or pole sign, 25
feet tall; Pedestal or
monument, 12 feet
200 square feet per face,
400 square feet for all
faces. Sign structure
area is included in the
area formula provided.
1 outright, provisions
for additional signage
based on aggregate of
frontage provided.
Fife (Commercial and
Industrial Zones)
Not specifically called
out, similar signs
allowed but permitted as
freestanding signs
Renton
Not specifically called
out, similar signs
allowed but permitted as
freestanding signs.
Seatac
(Commercial /Office /Ind
ustrial Zones)
Not specifically called
out.
Seattle (Neighborhood
and Commercial and
Commercial Zones)
Not specifically listed,
height increase is
allowed for some
freestanding signs that
are within 100 feet of
State Route.
Freestanding Signs in Commercial/Industrial Zones
Are they allowed?
Style?
Height
Area of Sign
Number of Signs
Draft Sign Code (Non
Residential)
Yes.
Monument Only
6 -8 feet depending on
amount of street
frontage.
Message area ranges
from 36 -72 per face
square feet depending
on street frontage.
Total sign area
including structure
ranges from 54 -96 per
face square feet
depending on frontage.
At least 1, one
additional allowed for
every 400 feet of
frontage. No cap, no
access point
requirement. Provisions
for corner properties
provided. No spacing
Federal Way
(Commercial)
I Yes
Pedestal or Monument
Only.
Between 5 and 12 feet.
Exact height is a ratio of
street frontage.
25- 64 square feet for
total sign area. Exact
area is a ration of street
frontage.
1 for each street
frontage. Additional
allowed for each 300
feet of frontage, if
automobile access is
provided. Maximum per
property of 3. Must be
spaced out at least 200
Fife (Commercial and
Industrial Zones)
I Yes
Not Restricted
30 feet for freestanding
sign, multi tenant
directory allowed to be
12 feet in height.
Based on linear
frontage, cannot exceed
a max of 150 square feet
(unclear if this is per
face or total)
1 freestanding sign, plus
one multi -tenant
directory. Additional
freestanding sign
allowed for corner
properties or are
bordered by a 2 street.
No freestanding sign
Renton
I Yes
Not Restricted.
Various, based on the
development style and
based on the amount of
linear frontage.
Various, based on the
development style and
based on the amount of
linear frontage. Ranges
from 150 square feet per
face to 400 square feet
per face.
One for each street.
Seatac
(Commercial/Office /Ind
ustrial Zones)
I Yes
Freestanding and
Monument Signs are
permitted. Design
Standards for both
provided.
15 feet.
Eighty five feet of total
sign area.
1 per site, 1 additional
sign allowed for each
street frontage, provided
each sign is separated
by at least 100 feet.
Seattle (Neighborhood
and Commercial and
Commercial Zones)
1 Yes
Not Restricted
30 feet, up to 40 feet if
within 100 feet of a
State Route.
Based on amount of
frontage along right of
way, minimum of 36
square feet up to a
maximum of 300 square
feet.
1 sign. 1 additional
allowed for each 300
feet of frontage.
Freeway Interchange Signs
Are they allowed?
Style?
Height
requirement.
Draft Sign Code
(Non Residential)
Not allowed, but a
Grand Monument Sign
could accomplish the
goal of visibility from
freeways.
feet from each other
Federal Way
(Commercial)
Yes, only along I -5
Not restricted.
If below I -5 not more
than 25 feet above the
elevation of the
freeway
If the sign is located at
an elevation above I -5
the sign can be no taller
than 20 feet above the
average grade
Sign height can be
increased up to a
shall be within 100 feet
of another freestanding
sign on the site lot.
Fife (Commercial and
Industrial Zones)
Yes, properties with
frontage adjacent to a
freeway are permitted a
freeway interchange
sign.
Note restncted, but the
code allows the
applicant to pick either a
freestanding or wall
sign.
Not to exceed 40 feet.
Renton
Not Specially listed,
special sign provisions
are provided for
businesses within 1000
feet of SR 167
IKEA provision allows
for some large big boxes
to have a 115 feet foot
tall sign.
Seatac
(Commercial/Office/Ind
ustrial Zones)
Not specifically called
out.
Seattle (Neighborhood
and Commercial and
Commercial Zones)
Not specifically listed,
height increase is
allowed for some
freestanding signs that
are within 100 feet of
State Route.
maximum of 40 feet
above the average
finished ground
elevation measured at
the mid -point of the
base in order to be
visible above trees or
other obstructions.
Based on content:
Various between 20
square feet and 300
square feet per face,
depending on type of
activities.
1
250 square feet (unclear
if its per face or total
sign area)
1