HomeMy WebLinkAboutReg 2010-08-16 Item 5B.1 - Ordinance - Expand Sign Code on Placement, Display and Use of Signs / Visual Communication DevicesCAS NUMBER: 10-073
SPONSOR'S
SUMMARY
REVIEWED BY
MTG. DATE
I 6/28/10
I 7/12/10
8/09/10
MTG. DATE
6/28/10
7/12/10
8/9/10
8/16/10
COW Mtg.
Utilities Cmte
Meeting Date
06/28/10
07/12/10
08/09/10
08/16/10
COUNCIL AGENDA SYNOPSIS
Prepared by
BM
BM
BM
BM
CA &P Cmte
Arts Comm.
Initials
MayorA review 1 Counal review
ITEM INFORMATION
I ORIGINAL AGENDA DATE: JUNE 28, 2010
AGENDA ITEM TrrLE Review of the Planning Commission Recommended Draft Sign Code
ITEM No.
F &S Cmte
n Parks Comm.
5.b
CAT1:GORY Discussion n Motion Resolution Ordinance ['Bid Award Public Hearing Other
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 111 Adm Svcs DCD Finance Fire Legal P&R Police PWI
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.
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
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED AMOUNT BUDGETED APPROPRIATION REQUIRED
Fund Source: N/A
Comments. N/A
RECORD OF COUNCIL ACTION
Forward to 7/12/10 Committee of the Whole
Forward to 8/9/10 Committee of the Whole
l Forward to next Regular Meeting with modifications to Sign Code ordinance
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
Ordinances and Fee Resolution in final form 8/11/10 Info Memo attachments'
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TO:
City of Tukwila
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
Mayor Haggerton
City Council
FROM: Nora Gierloff, Deputy DCD Director
DATE: August 11, 2010
SUBJECT: Sign Code Update
ISSUE
Continue deliberations on the Planning Commission Recommended Draft Sign Code.
BACKGROUND
Jim Haggerton, Mayor
At the August 9, 2010 Committee of the Whole Meeting, staff provided the City Council a
revised Planning Commission Recommended Draft Sign code (hereinafter "Draft Sign Code
The revised Draft Sign Code included changes that had been proposed by staff, the City
Council and the public. At the meeting there was general consensus from the City Council to
accept the changes outlined in the revised Draft Sign Code.
At that meeting the City Council also heard additional testimony from Westfield Southcenter
regarding the need for larger grand monument signs. Westfield noted that given the grade
changes along Interstate 5 it was difficult for motorists to see the Mall. Westfield comments are
further outlined in their June 28, 2010 letter to the City Council. Westfield is specifically
requesting the following changes for premises that are greater than 85 acres in area:
1. Increase the maximum allowable height for grand monument signs. Westfield is
requesting that the maximum height be equal to the maximum height in the applicable
zoning district.
2. Increase the maximum sign area for grand monument signs up 500 square feet per
face with a total message area of 1000 square feet for all sign faces.
During the meeting, the City Council asked staff for a recommendation. Staff recommended that
the language forwarded to the City Council from the Planning Commission be retained.
However, staff did mention some items for the Council to consider if they wanted to modify the
language in the Planning Commission draft.
The City Council asked staff to explore language that would accommodate Westfield as well as
other large commercial complexes that, given their size, have sign needs not typical for most
other properties in the City. The chart below lists two options for the City Council's review and
consideration.
Option 1
Adopt the language
Westfield proposed in
their latest public
comment.
Pr000sed Change to Draft Sign
Code
19.32.060 Allowable Modifications
Under a Master Sign Program.
B. In additional to the above listed
modifications, the following
additional sign types may be
allowed with Board of Architectural
Discussion
The proposal would allow
sites over 85 acres in size to
have two 115 foot tall signs,
each with an area of 500
square feet per face and a
total sign area of 1,000 square
feet.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
Option 2
Flexible Option
Review and Approval.
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. For sites over 85
acres. the sian message area mav
be increased up to 500 sauare feet
per side. 1000 sauare feet total.
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. except for sites over 85
acres. the height mav exceed the
tallest building but shall not exceed
115 feet.
g. No more than two
grand monument signs are allowed
per premises.
19.32.060 Allowable Modifications
Under a Master Sign Program.
B. In addition to the above listed
14 W InfoMemos\SignCodeFinal 2010.08.10 2.doc
The proposed language would
allow flexibility, both in the
height and area, for sites with
an area greater than 85 acres.
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 3
W12010 InfoMemos\SignCodeFinal 2010.08.10 2,doc
modifications, the following
additional sign types may be
allowed with Board of Architectural
Review and Approval
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 as follows:
i. For premises up to 85
acres in size. the sian area mav be
increased up to 100 square feet per
side, 200 square feet total and the
limitation on structure size is
removed.
ii. For premises over
85 acres in size the cumulative sign
area for both arand monument
sians shall not exceed 1.250
sauare feet. No individual sian
face mav have a messaae area in
excess of 625 sauare feet.
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. except for premises over
As an alternative to two grand
monument signs not taller
than the tallest building on the
premise one of the signs
could be taller than the
building, provided the height
of the 2 grand monument
sign is reduced an equal
height. Using the Mall as an
example, its tallest building is
90 feet high so one grand
monument sign could be 115
tall (90 +25) while the 2nd
grand monument sign would
only be allowed to be 65 feet
tall (90 -25).
During the Planning
Commission Public Hearing
the Mall originally asked the
Planning Commission to
increase both the height and
sign area allowance for both
of the grand monument signs.
The mall requested a total
sign area of 1,200 square feet
per face and a total of 2,400
for both grand monument
signs
Option 2 would provide
additional flexibility for one
large grand monument sign.
If a premise over 85 acres in
size chooses to install only
one grand monument sign
they could have a total
message area of 1,250
square feet for the sign. In
the alternative, two grand
monument signs could be
installed provided the total
message area for both grand
monument signs does not
exceed 1,250 square feet in
area.
15
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 4
85 acres in size. For premises
over this size the heiaht of one of
the two arand monument sians
may be increased above the heiaht
of the tallest buildina provided that
for every increase to one of the
signs the second sign heiaht must
be reduced an eaual amount. In no
case shall the heiaht of anv arand
monument sian exceed 115 feet.
DISCUSSION
The revised draft code that was presented to the City Council on August 9 represented the
work of both the Sign Code Advisory Committee and the Planning Commission. Both advisory
bodies concluded that large signs within the City should be deemphasized in exchange for
putting a greater emphasis on building mounted signage. However, there are some unique
premises, such as the Mall, that given their function and use have special signage needs.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that option 2 be incorporated into the ordinance which will adopt the new sign
code. Option 2 provides flexibility for larger premises to gain additional visibility. Option 2 is
more in keeping with the direction provided by both the Sign Code Advisory Committee and the
Planning Commission.
Attachment A is a version of the proposed ordinance that does not include either option 1 or
option 2 as described above. Included as attachments B and C with this memo are two
versions of Section 19.32.060 reflecting option 1 and option 2. In order to incorporate changes
the Council will need to make a motion to substitute the language found in one of the two
attachments into the proposed Ordinance which will adopt the new sign Code. As always, the
Council can modify the language found in the attachments or draft their own language.
Staff has added an additional WHEREAS CLAUSE to the ordinance to reflect any proposed
change made by the Council regarding this issue. The additional WHEREAS CLAUSE will help
to demonstrate the legislative intent for the need for special sign regulations for premises of 85
acres or more in size.
WHEREAS CLAUSE included in Ordinance:
"WHEREAS, large commercial properties within the Tukwila Urban Center and Tukwila Valley
South zoning districts have unique sign needs which requires a code that provides flexibility to
address their sign needs; and
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 5
OTHER
During the Council meeting on August 9 staff noted several house keeping items that should
be completed if Council adopts a new sign code at the August 16 meeting. These items
include:
1. Adopting an ordinance repealing the current moratorium that is in place regarding the
installation of certain types of signs in the City (Attachment D); and
2. Amending the City's Land Use fee resolution to account for the new permit types that
have been created by the proposed Sign Code Ordinance (Attachment E).
ATTACHMENTS
A. Ordinance
B. Section TMC 19.32.060 reflecting Option 1
C. Section TMC 19.32.060 reflecting Option 2
D. Ordinance Repealing Moratorium
E. Resolution Amending Land Use Fee Resolution
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Ci of Tukvri1a
Washington
Ordinance No.
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AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUI(WILA,
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 TUI(WILA
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. large commercial properties within the Tukwila Urban Center and Tukwila
Valley South zoning districts have unioue sign needs which reouires a code that provides
flexibility to address their sign needs; and
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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
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 or 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
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Regulations. In cases of conflict between the Sign Code and the City's adopted Sensitive Area
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 "Awning/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 maps 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 can 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.
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.
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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 light 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 Zoning 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 Comm11tnications 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
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.
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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 flags, each on individual flag poles, per premise. Content of
the flags is not regulated.
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;
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,
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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 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. 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.
E. 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.
F 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.
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 Notice 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;
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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 Department 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
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:
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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
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
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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 witless 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:
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.
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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
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,
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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 (D) The lighting shall have no spillover impact on adjacent
properties.
C. Flush- Mounted Building Signs (Wall Signs) Design Standards.
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:
a. The image of the sign may not change more frequently than once every ten
seconds.
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 IOPM.
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.
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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
Premise
Less than
400 feet
400 -599 feet
600 -799 feet
Allowable Sign Message
Area
36 square feet per
side /72 square feet total
50 square feet per
side /100 square feet total
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
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 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 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
c. For each separate street frontage Table 1 shall be used to determine the design
standards for any proposed monument sign.
3. 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.
4. Maxinn Width. The maximum permitted width of a monument sign is 15 feet.
5 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.
19.20.050 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.
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Total Allowable Maximum
Sign Size Height
54 square feet per
side /108 square feet total 6 feet
70 square feet per
side /140 square feet 7 feet One
total
80 square feet per
side /160 square feet 7 feet One
total
88 square feet per
side /176 square feet 8 feet Two
total
96 square feet per
side /192 square feet 8 feet linear street frontage.
total
Number of Signs
One
One for every 400 feet of
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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- 1,5001 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 among multiple awnings on an exposed building
face.
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.
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 corner 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.
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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 fagade.
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. Azaning/Canopy Side Sign.
a. Only awnings /canopies that are over exterior public entrances are permitted
signs.
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 fagade 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
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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 Signnge. 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.
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 banner 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 Chapter 19.22, "Tukwila Urban Center Opt Out Provision," hereby reads
as follows:
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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 chapter establishes an "opt
out" provision for properties that currently do not have the development pattern that would
benefit from the sign regulations found in TMC Chapter 19.20.
19.22.020 Opt Out Permitted.
A. A property owner within the Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) 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 "opt -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 map identifying all parcels included in the "opt -out"
request and verifying that the premise is located within the TUC.
3 An "opt -out" request will apply to all buildings, tenants and signs on a premise.
4. The letter must be accompanied by 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
Section 19.22.020 is only from Chapter 19.20 and all other chapters of this Title shall remain in
full force. Properties that have opted out of the requirements of Chapter 19.20 are ineligible to
participate in the Master Sign Program found in Chapter 19.32 unless the property owner
chooses to opt back in pursuant to TMC Section 19.22.040.
19.22.027 Permanent Sign Application Materials. All applications to install a permanent
sign or other visual communication device under this chapter shall include the following:
1. Three copies of a completed and signed application form provided by the City
noting that the sign is proposed on an "opt -out" premise.
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 wall 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 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 required 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 Signage. 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.
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Table 1- Allowable Message Area for Permanent Wall
Signs in the Southcenter Parkway Corridor
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. The permanent wall sign must be located on the exposed building face of the
tenant space that qualifies for 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;
b. The site has at least two detached commercial occupied buildings, neither of
which is accessory to the other;
c. 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 Section 19.22.030 (B):
a. Area of Sign.
Street Frontage
Up to 200 feet
1 200 to 400 feet.
Over 400 feet.
Sign Area/Sign
50 sq ft. with a total of 100 sq ft. for all 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 it
identifies up to a maximum height of 35 feet.
c. Setback. All freestanding signs shall be set back 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 opt out under
TMC Section 19.22.020 may choose to opt back in to the signs permitted under TMC Chapter
19.20. A decision to opt 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 opt back in to TMC Chapter 19.20 with copies to all affected tenants.
2. The letter must identify all signs that do not conform 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 Chapter 19.20, the
letter must be accompanied by sign permit applications identifying how they will achieve
conformance.
Section 7. 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
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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 permit 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.
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
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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
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.
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Section 8. 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.
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
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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.
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.
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.
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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 sign 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 sign can be
increased to six percent of the exposed building face, up to a maximum of 250 square feet.
b. For premises 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 250 feet of a public street.
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.
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.
3. 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.
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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 10. 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.
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. 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 10 years from the effective date
of this ordinance. This shall be known as "the grace period." 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, 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 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 the time of installation and that any modifications made to
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the sign complied with the City's Sign Code regulations at the time of the modification. Any
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 require 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. 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 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
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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.
Section 11. 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.
Table 1
Type of Billboard Proposed in Number of Billboard Faces That Must Be
Designated Receiving Area Removed Within Designated Sending Areas
One Static Billboard Face 1 Three billboard faces
One Digital Billboard Face 1 Five billboard faces 1
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
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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.
Type of Sign Proposed in
Designated Receiving Area
I One Static Billboard Face
I One Digital Billboard Face
Table 2
Number of Billboards That Must Be
Removed Within Designated Sending Areas
Five billboard faces
Seven billboard faces
I,
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 qualify for the billboard area increase a billboard
provider must provide a total of 28 days of message 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
billboard.
d. Billboards shall not exceed a height of 35 feet.
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:
1) 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 1
1 Posters 12 x 24 feet 1 150 feet 1
1 Bulletins 1 14 x 48 feet 1 250 feet 1
2) Each display must have a light sensing device that will adjust the
brightness as ambient light conditions change.
3) 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.
4) 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.
5) 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. 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 in such a way that will avoid
conflicts between the billboard and current or future street trees pruning of the street trees, is
permitted, provided.
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1. The applicant obtains a street use permit from the City'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 adjacent to the property where the billboard is
located are eligible for pruning.
5. In the event of death of the trees) as a result of the pruning activities, the
applicant shall be responsible for paying the landscape value of the tree(s) as determined by a
certified arborist or landscape 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.
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 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.
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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 12. Signs Prohibited within the Right -of -Way. All regulations regarding the
placement of signs within the City's Right of Way as codified at TMC Section 11.24.070.B are
hereby repealed.
Section 13. 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 14. 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 15. 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
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).
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Demos Robertson, Mayor Pro Tempore
Filed with the City Clerk:
Passed by the City Council:
Published.
Effective Date:
Ordinance Number
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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 weatherErotection.
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 structuraIIy integrated into the building.
FOSThR GRR..K.I
a.Paa;4,E,urs,
246 24$ 2948
"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.
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
window.
"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
Attachment B
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ppyy
3
53
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Nwoma wwwW• "L 11
40'
40'
40'
Standard Sight Distance
May be modified by
City Engineer
11
Right Out Only
1
/Access Term its
all turning motions
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
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3
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Attachment D
City of Tukwila
Billboard
Receiving
Area lr
ANT
r=500'
1
Attachm
1 City of Tukwila I
Billboard 1
Receiving
Area it
;log
1
1
a
b. For premises 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 250 feet of a public street.
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.
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
Option 1 Language
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 sign 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 sign can be
increased to six percent of the exposed building face, up to a maximum of 250 square
feet.
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.
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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. For sites over 85 acres,
the sign message area mav be increased up to 500 sauare feet per side. 1000 sauare feet
total.
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, except for sites over 85 acres, the height mav exceed the tallest
building but shall not exceed 115 feet.
g. No more than two grand monument signs are allowed per premises.
3. 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.
Option 2 Language
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 sign 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 sign can be
increased to six percent of the exposed building face, up to a maximum of 250 square
feet.
b. For premises 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 250 feet of a public street.
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.
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.
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60
d. Sign message area may be increased as follows:
i. For premises up to 85 acres in size, the sign area mav be increased up
to 100 square feet per side, 200 square feet total and the limitation on structure size is
removed.
ii. For premises over 85 acres in size the cumulative sign area for both
grand monument signs shall not exceed 1250 sauare feet. No individual sign face mav
have a message area in excess of 625 sauare feet.
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, except for premises over 85 acres in size. For premises over
this size the height of one of the two grand monument signs may be increased above the
height of the tallest building provided that for every increase to one of the signs the
second sign height must be reduced by an eaual amount. In no case shall the height of
any grand monument sign exceed 115 feet.
g. No more than two grand monument signs are allowed per premises.
3. 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.