HomeMy WebLinkAboutSEPA EPIC-193-82 - CITY OF TUKWILA - SIGN CODE AMENDMENTPROPOSED SIGN CODE
AMENDMENT 1982
EPIG193 -82
CITY OF TUKWILA
OFFICE OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
FINAL
DECLARATION OF NON - SIGNIFICANCE
Description of proposal
Proponent City of Tukwila
Amendment to the city sign code
Location of Proposal
Lead Agency
City wide legislative propnsal
City of Tukwila
File No. EPIC - 1.93 -82
This proposal has been determined to (T/not have) a significant
'.adverse impact upon the environment. An EIS ( g/is not) required
under RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c). This decision was made after review
by the lead agency of a completed environmental checklist and other
information on file with the lead agency.
Responsible Official
Brad Collins
Position /Title Planning Director
Date
COMMENTS:
Signature
City of Tukwila
6200 Southcenter Boulevard
Tukwila Washington 98188
MEMORANDUM
TO: Brad Collins, Responsible Official
FROM: Mark Caughey, Associate Planner
DATE: 25 August 1982
SUBJECT: Threshold determination, Proposed Sign Code Revision
The final legislative draft of the revised sign code ha been completed and
appears nearly ready to be sent to the Council for final action after nearly
a year and a half of review and discussion. The draft amendment was circulated
to the various departments and no comments were received, with the execption
of a concern noted by the police department regarding glare control. They
indicate that issue does not appear to be addressed.
We beleieve that control of glare and lighting impacts to the travelways of
the city are adequately controlled in the revised code. For example, the de-
finiton of "glare" has been expanded to include a quantitative standard.
Also, section 19.16.030 specifically controlls glare impacts to drivers and
pedestrians,
As the subject action is a legislative proposal, the environmental impacts
associated therewith are minimal; a declaration of non - significance is re-
commended.
CITY OF IDIPERMIT NUMBER •TROL NUMBER
CENTRAL PERMIT SYSTEM - PLAN CHECK ROUTIW6 FORM
TO: 1 BLDG, r---
, PLNG, P,W, FIRE
PROJECT QeNlI$ ' s+ 6N. c,c)
ADDRESS
CITY _SE- 1�11� -A
DATE TRANSMITTED 9 006
POLICE
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RESPONSE REQUESTED BY IC o0 6
C,P,S, STAFF COORDINATOR MARK RESPONSE RECEIVED
PLEASE REVIEW THE ATTACHED PROJECT PLANS AND RESPOND WITH APPROPRIATE
COMMENTS IN THE SPACE BELOW, INDICATE CRUCIAL CONCERNS BY CHECKING THE
BOX NEXT TO THE LINE(S) ON WHICH THAT CONCERN IS NOTED:
El
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D,R,C, REVIEW REQUESTED
PLAN CHECK DATE ��� �✓�
PLAN RESUBMiITTAL REQUESTED COMMENTS PREPARED BY
C,P,S, FORM 2
CITY OF TUKWILA
•ERMIT NUMBER COBOL NUMBER
CENTRAL PERMIT SYSTEM - PLAN CHECK ROUTING FORM
TO: 1 BLDG, PLNG, P,W, FIRE POLICE
PROJECT
ADDRESS
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P,& R.
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DATE TRANSMITTED 9 wco .RESPONSE REQUESTED BY I` ou a
C,P,S, STAFF COORDINATOR, Aktgl RESPONSE RECEIVED
PLEASE REVIEW THE ATTACHED PROJECT PLANS AND RESPOND WITH APPROPRIATE
COMMENTS IN THE SPACE BELOW, INDICATE CRUCIAL CONCERNS BY CHECKING THE
BOX NEXT TO THE LINE(S) ON WHICH THAT CONCERN IS NOTED:
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D.R.C. REVIEW REQUESTED
PLAN CHECK DATE 9/ I( (�z
PLAN RESUBMITTAL REQUESTED F. COMMENTS PREPARED BY
C.P,S, FORM 2
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RECEIVED
CITY OF T! "..",,V!!,A
AUG 11 1982
PUBLIC WORKS DEPT.
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CITY OF *TUKWILA
IERMIT NUMBER - C•TROL NUMBER
CENTRAL PERMIT SYSTEM - PLAN CHECK ROUTING FORM
TO: Li BLDG, PLNG, P.W. I FIRE r "OLICE
PROJECT
ADDRESS
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DATE TRANSMITTED 9 hoc. RESPONSE REQUESTED BY IL 11.0 6,
C,P,S, STAFF COORDINATOR Malik RESPONSE RECEIVED
PLEASE REVIEW THE ATTACHED PROJECT PLANS AND RESPOND WITH APPROPRIATE
COMMENTS IN THE SPACE BELOW, INDICATE CRUCIAL CONCERNS BY CHECKING THE
BOX NEXT TO THE LINE(S) ON WHICH THAT CONCERN IS NOTED:
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D.R.C. REVIEW REQUESTED
PLAN RESUBMITTAL REQUESTED COMMENTS PREPARED BY
PLAN CHECK DATE /
C,P,S, FORM -2
CITY OF TUKWILA
ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM
This questionnaire must.be completed and submitted with the application for
permit:... This.questionnaire must be completed by all persons applying for a
permit-from the.City=.=of Tukwila, unless-it is determined by the Responsible
0ffciaithatthepthinit is exempt or unless the applicant and Responsible
Official previous.ly_agree an Environmental Impact Statement needs to be completed.
A feeof $50.00 must accompany the filling of the Environmental Questionnaire
to cover costs of the threshold determination.
BACKGROUND
Address and Phone Number of Proponent: 6200 Southcenter Blvd. 433 -1849
3. Date Checklist Submitted:.
9 August 1982
4. Agency Requiring Checklist: Tukwila Planning Dept.
5. Name of Proposal, if applicable: Sign Code Amendment
6. Nature and Brief Description of the Proposal (including but not limited
to its size, general design elements, and other factors that will give
an accurate understanding of its scope and nature):
Comprehensive amendment to ordinance 773 arid Title 19 of the TMC
providing for the regulation of signs and visual communication de-
7. Loca''8,rsof Proposal (describe the physical setting of the proposal, as
well as the extent of the land area affected by any environmental im-
pacts, including any other information needed to Clive an accurate under-
standing of the environmental setting of the proposal):
Preposed legislation affects a1T incorporated arcas of the city
8. Estimated Date for Completion of the Proposal: Anticipated adoption, August, 1982
9. List of all Permits, Licenses or Government Approvals Required for the
Proposal (federal, state and local):
(a) Rezone, conditional use, shoreline permit, etc. YES NO XX
(b) King County Hydraulics Permit YES NOxx
(c) Building permit YES NOxx
(d) Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Permit
(e) Sewer hook up permit
(f) Sign permit
;(g) Water hook up permit
(h) Storm water, system permit
(i) Curb cut permit
-(j) Electrical permit (State of Washington)
(k) Plumbing permit (King County)
.(1) Other:
YES NOXX
YES NOXX
YES NO
YES NO
YES NOXX
YES NOXX
YES NOXX
YES NOXX
1O..Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or futher activity
related to or connected with this proposal? If yes, explain:
NONF
11. Do you know of any plans by others which may affect the property covered by
your proposal? If yes, explain:
Existing and future development within the city using exterior signing
will be influenced by the regulatory and permitting procedures in this
12. AttacfiNill5qtilWapplication form that has been completed regarding the pro-
posal; if none has been completed, but is expected to be filed at some future
date, describe the nature of such application form:
NONE
II. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
(Explanations of all "yes" and "maybe" answers are required)
1. Earth. Will the proposal result in:
(a) Unstable earth conditions or in changes in geologic
substructures?
(b) Disruptions, displacements, compaction or overcover-
ing of the soil?
(c) Change in topography or ground surface relief fea-
tures?
( -d) The destruction, covering or modification of any
unique geologic or physical features?
-2-
YES MAYBE NO
xx
XX
• •
(e) Any increase in wind or water erosion of soils,
either on or off the site?
(f) Changes in deposition or erosion of beach sands, or
changes in siltation, deposition or erosion which
may modify the channel of a river or stream or the
bed of the ocean or any bay, inlet or lake?
Explanation:
2. Air. Will the proposal result in:
(a) Air emissions or deterioration of ambient air
quality?
(b) The creation of objectionable odors?
(c) Alteration of air movement, moisture
or temperature, or any change in climate, either
locally or regionally?
Explanation:
3. Water. Will the proposal result in:
(a) Changes in currents, or the course or direction
of water movements, in either marine or fresh
waters?
(b) Changes in absorption rates, drainage patterns,
or the rate and amount of surface water runoff?
(c) Alterations to the course or flow of flood waters?
(d) Change in the amount of surface water in any water
body?
(e) Discharge into surface waters, or in any alteration
of surface water quality, including but not limited
to temperature, dissolved oxygen or turbidity?
(f) Alteration of the direction or rate of flow of
ground waters?
(g) Change in the quantity of ground waters, either
through direct additions or withdrawals, or through
interception of an aquifer by cuts or excavations?
-3-
- YES MAYBE NO
XX
XX
XX
xx
• •
YES MAYBE NO
(h) Deterioration in ground water quality, either
through direct injection, or through the seepage
of leachate, phosphates, detergents, waterborne
virus or bacteria, or other substances into the
ground waters? XX
(i) Reduction in the amount of water otherwise avail -.
able for public water supplies? -X
Explanation:
4. Flora. Will the proposal result in:
(a) Change in the diversity of species, or numbers
of any species of flora (including trees, shrubs,
grass, crops, microflora and aquatic plants)?
(b) Reduction of the numbers of any unique, rare or
endangered species of flora?
(c) Introduction of new species of flora into an area,
or in a barrier to the normal replenishment of
existing species?
(d) Reduction in acreage of any agricultural crop?
XX
XX
Explanation: Mandatory landscape requirements for the bases of certain
freestanding signs may require placement of landscaping
where none is required otherwise
5. Fauna. Will the proposal result in:
(a) Changes in the diversity of species, or numbers
of any species of fauna (birds, land animals
including reptiles, fish and shellfish, benthic
organisms, insects or microfauna)?
(b) Reduction of the numbers of any unique, rare or,
endangered species of fauna?
(c) Introduction of new species of fauna into an
area, or result in a barrier to the migration
or movement of fauna?
(d) Deterioration to existing fish or wildlife
habitat?
Explanation:
XX
Y
6. Noise. Will the proposal increase existing noise
levels?
Explanation:
7. Light and Glare. Will the proposal produce new
light or glare?
YES MAYBE NO
X�—
Explanation: Although glare is specifically defined and controlled in the
amended code, new sign structures allowed thereunder may intro -
duce illuminated signing where none exists currently.
8. Land Use. Will the proposal result in the altera-
tion of the present or planned land use
of an area?
Explanation:
9. Natural Resources. Will the proposal result in:
(a) Increase in the rate of use of any natural
resources?
(b) Depletion of any nonrenewable natural
resource?
Explanation:
10. Risk of Upset. Does the proposal involve a risk of an
. explosion or the release of hazardous
substances (including, but not limited
to, oil, pesticides, chemicals or radi-
ation) in the event of an accident or
upset conditions?
Explanation:
XX
XX
•
11. Population. Will the proposal alter the location,
distribution, density, or growth rate
of the human population of an area?
Explanation:
YES MAYBE NO
XX
12. Housing. Will the proposal affect existing housing,
or create a demand for additional housing? XX
Explanation:
13. Transportation /Circulation. Will the proposal result in:
(a) Generation of additional vehicular movement?
(b) Effects on existing parking facilities, or
demand for new parking?
(c) Impact upon existing transportation systems?
(d) Alterations to present patterns of circulation
or movement of people and /or goods?
(e) Alterations to waterborne, rail or air traffic?
(f) Increase in traffic hazards to motor vehicles,
bicyclists or pedestrians?
XX
XL
XX
Explanation: Permissibility of billboards and other large -scale visuals
increases potential for distracting safety hazards
14. Public Services. Will the proposal have an effect upon,
or result in a need for new or altered
governmental services in any of the
following areas:
(a) Fire protection?
(b) Police protection?
(c) Schools?
(d) Parks or other recreational facilities?
.(e) Maintenance of public facilities, including
roads?
XX
XX
XX
(f) Other governmental services?
Explanation:
YES MAYBE NO
Initial implementation of sign code amendment provisions
may require increased adminisrative time to explain to
the public and to pursue enforcement measures
15. Energy. Will the proposal result in:
(a) Use of substantial amounts of fuel or energy?
(b) Demand upon existing sources of energy, or
require the development of new sources of
energy?
Explanation:
16. Utilities. Will the proposal result in a need for
new systems, or alterations to the
following utilities:
(a) Power or natural gas?
(b) Communications systems?
(c) Water?
(d) Sewer or septic tanks?
(e) Storm water drainage?
(f) Solid waste and disposal?
Explanation:
17. Human Health. Will the proposal result in the crea -,
tion of any health hazard or potential
health hazard (excluding mental health)?
Explanation:
XX
XX
XX
XX
XX
• •
18. Aesthetics. Will the proposal result in the obstruc-
tion of any scenic vista or view open to
the public, or will the proposal result
in the creation of an aesthetically of-
fensive site open to public view?
YES MAYBE NO
XX
Explanation:
Increased sign height allowances at freeway interchanges may
impact some existing view corridors
19. Recreation. Will the proposal result in an impact
upon the quality or quantity of exist-
ing recreational opportunities?
Explanation:
20. Archeological /Histroical. Will the proposal result in
an alteration of a signifi-
cant archeological or his-
torical site, structure,
object or building?
Explanation:
CERTIFICATION BY APPLICANT:
I, the undersigned, state that to the best of my knowledge the above
information is true and complete. It is understood that the lead agency
may withdraw any.declaration of non - significance that it might issue in
reliance upon this checklist should there be any willful.misrepresentation
or willful lack of full disclosure on my part.
Mark Caughey
Associate Planner
ture and Title
9 August 1982
Date
XX
• •
19.04.010 - 19.04.040
CHAPTER 19.04
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sections:
19.04.010 Title
19.04.020 Purposes
19.04.030 Liability for Damages
19.04.040 Severability Clause
19.04.010 Title. This title shall be hereinafter known as the '.'Tukwila
Sign Code "; it may be cited as such and will be hereinafter referred to as
"this code."
19.04.020 Purposes. The purposes of this code are:
(A) To establish standards and guidelines for the design, erection
and installation of signs and other visual communication devices so that the
streets of Tukwila may appear orderly and safety may be increased by mini-
mizing clutter and distraction:.
(B) To establish administrative procedures for the implementation of
this code.
(C) To assure that the regulations for this code are not intended to
permit any violation. of the provisions of any other applicable federal,
state or local regulation.
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 of Tukwila and its employees and officials shall
assume no liability for such injury or damage resulting form the authoriza-
tion of any permit or inspections implementing the provisions of this code.
19.04.040 Severability Clause. If any section, subsection, clause or
phrase of this code is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, such deci-
sion shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this code.
1
• •
19.04.010 - 19.04.040
CHAPTER 19.04
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sections:
19.04.010 Title
19.04.020 Purposes
19.04.030 Liability for Damages
19.04.040 Severability Clause
19.04.010 Title. This title shall be hereinafter known as the "Tukwila
Sign Code "; it may be cited as such and will be hereinafter referred to as
"this code."
19.04.020 Purposes. The purposes of this code are:
(A) To establish standards and guidelines for the design, erection
and installation of signs and other visual communication devices so that the
streets of Tukwila may appear orderly and safety may be increased by mini-
mizing clutter and distraction..
(B) To establish administrative procedures for the implementation of
this code.
(C) To assure that the regulations for this code are not intended to
permit any violation of the provisions of any other applicable federal,
state or local regulation.
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 of Tukwila and its employees and officials shall
assume no liability for such injury or damage resulting form the authoriza-
tion of any permit or inspections implementing the provisions of this code.
19.04.040 Severability Clause. If any section, subsection, clause or
phrase of this code is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, such deci-
sion shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this code.
1
• •
19.08.010
CHAPTER 19.08
DEFINITIONS
Sections:
19.08.010 Generally
19.08.020 Animated Signs
)9.08.030 Area and Background Area.
19.08.040 Billboard
19.08.050 Exposed Building Face
19.08.060 Freestanding Sign
19.08.070 Freeway Interchange Sign
19.08.080 Glare
19.08.090 Height
19.08.100 Internal Informational Sign
19.08.110 Off- premise Sign
19.08.120 On- premise Sign
19.08.130 Permanent Sign
19.08.140 Planned Shopping Center (Mall)
19.08.150 Portable Sign
19.08.160 Real Estate Sign
19.08.170 Real Estate Directional Sign
19.08.180 Shared Directional Sign
19.08.190 Sign
19.08.200 Temporary Sign
19.08.210 Traffic Marking
19.08.220 Traffic Sign
19.08.230 Uniform Building Code
19.08.240 Unique Sign
. 19.08.010 Generally. Special words used in this code shall be defined
as set out in this chapter.
2
19.08.020 - 19.08.090
19.08.020 Animated Sign. Animated sign means any sign or portion of
which physically moves, including rotation or on which lettering or figures
appear to move due to flashing lights. (However, changes in background or
border lighting which occur at a rate of no more than ten times per minute
and which utilize lamps of no more than fifteen watts are classified as non -
animated portions of signs.)
19.08.030 Area and Background Area. Area and background areas means
the entire face of a sign or panel upon which copy or insignia may be placed.
Where separate letters or shapes are used, the sign area shall be that encom-
passed by drawing lines at the extremities for the shapes to be used.
19.08.040 Billboard. Billboard means a sign or visual communication
device, its structure and component parts, whose principal use is the adver-
tising or promotion of a service or product normally available in the general
market area but not for sale or rent on the immediate premises.
19.08.050 Exposed Building Face. Exposed building face shall mean that
portion of the building exterior wall or tenant space wall area of the build-
ing, together with one -half the vertical distance between eaves and ridge of
a pitched roof above it, used for sign area caculation purposes as provided
below.
a) That portion of the building wall fronting on the
principal public street from which the building
has access, or
b) That portion of the building wall which fronts on
an access road, or
c) That portion of the building wall wherein the prin-
cipal public entrance to an individual tenant space
within a multi- tenant building is located.
19.08.060 Freestanding Sign. Freestanding sign means a sign installed
on a permanent foundation, not attached to a building or other structure.
19.08.070 Freeway Interchange Sign. Freeway interchange sign means a
sign located within the areas designated on Exhibit A of this code and situ-
ated within a radius of 1000' from the entry /exit point of intersection with
a public street or roadway and located within a commercial or industrial
zone but not separated by a physical barrier from the entry /exit intersec-
tion. The freeway tnterchange sign shall identify businesses such as eating,
lodging or service station facilities which serve the traveling public.
19.08.080 Glare. Glare means the creation of an intense relative
brightness exceeding 250 foot - lamberts which causes difficulty in the obser-
vation of the general area around the sign.
19.08.090 Height. Height means the distance measured from:
a) The lowest point of elevation of the ground between
the top of the sign and a point five feet distant
from said sign, or
•
19.08.100 - 19.08.180
b) The lowest point of elevation of the finished surface
of the ground between the top of the sign and the
property boundary, if it is less than five feet
distant from said sign.
19.08.100 Internal Information Sign. Internal information sign means
a sign which gives directional information or identifies specific use areas
and which is necessary to maintain the orderly internal use of the premises,
such as those signs which identify employee parking, shipping, clearance or
which restrict ingress and egress. Not included in this definition are
signs which are not directly - related to an identified need for orderly inter-
nal use of the property and off - premise or portable signs.
19.08.110 Off- Premise Sign. Off- premise sign means any sign which can-
not be classified as an on- premise sign as described in Section 19.08.120.
19.08.120 On- Premise Sign. On- premise sign means a sign which displays
only advertising copy specifically - related to the primary lawful use of the
premise on which it is located, including signs or sign devices indicating
the business transacted at, services rendered, goods sold or produced on the
immediate premise, name of the business, person, firm or corporation occupy-
ing the premise including signs with adjustable copy known as reader boards.
19.08.130 Permanent Sign. Permanent sign means any sign which is
erected without a restriction on the time period allowed for its display as
specified in this code.
19.08.140 Planned Shopping Center (Mall). Planned Shopping Center
(Mall) shall mean a multiple- tenant retail development as defined in TMC
Section 18.06.730 (Shopping Center (Mall), Planned).
19.08.150 Portable Sign. Portable sign means a sign which is not
permanently affixed to a structure and is designed for or capable of movement,
except those signs explicitly designed for people to carry on their persons
or permanently affixed to motor vehicles operating in their normal course
of business.
19.08.160 Real Estate Sign. Real estate sign means a sign displayed
for a limited time and offering the immediate premise for sale, rent or
lease.
19.08.170 .Real Estate Directional Sign. Real estate directional sign
means an off - premise sign displayed for a limited time and offering a par-
ticular property for sale, rent or lease.
'19.08.180 Shared Directional Sign. Shared directional sign means a
directional sign erected and maintained by several adjacent businesses as
a single sign.
4
• •
19.08.190 - 19.08.240
19.08.190 Sign. Sign means any medium, including paint on walls,
merchandise, or visual communication device, its structure and component
parts, which is used or intended to be used to attract attention to the
subject matter for advertising or identification purposes. Bulletin boards
and reader boards are considered signs.
19.08.200 Temporary Sign. A sign which is erected for a limited
time and may be used to advertise business, community or civic projects,
real estate for sale or lease, or other special events.
19.08.210 Traffic Marking. Traffic marking means all lines, patterns,
words, colors or other devices except signs and power- operated traffic
control devices, set irito the surface of, applied upon, or attached to the
pavement or curbing or to objects within or adjacent to the roadway, placed
for the purpose of regulating, warning or guiding traffic.
19.08.220 Traffic Sign. Traffic sign means a device mounted on a
fixed or portable support whereby a specific message is conveyed by means of
words or symbols placed or erected for the purposes of regulating, warning
or guiding traffic.
19.08.230 Uniform Building Code. Uniform building code means the
currently adopted edition of the Uniform Building Code, Chapter 16.04 of
the Tukwila Municipal Code.
19.08.240 Unique Sign. Unique sign means a building or other struc-
ture of unique design and exterior decor, where the entire structure may be
considered an advertising device, including but not limited to shapes imi-
tating hats, boots, tires, statues, parts of anatomy or manufactured items -
such as airplanes, cars, boats, carriages, or symbols which may or may not
contain lettering.
5
411 • 19.12.010 - 19.12.030
CHAPTER 19.12
PERMITS
Sections:
19.12.010 Required
19.12.020 Application Procedure
19.12.030 Application for Permanent Sign- Contents
19.12.040 Application -- Rejection -- Appeal
19.12.050 Exceptions -- Permit not required
19.12.060 Criteria for Granting Variances
19.12.070 Fees -- Permanent Signs
19.12.080 Fees -- Temporary Signs
19.12.090 Fees - -Work started prior to Permit Issuance
19.12.100 Fees -- Public Hearings
19.12.110 Maintenance and Removal of Signs
19.12.120 Special Permit Signs and Displays
19.12.130 Revocation
19.12.010 Required. No sign shall hereafter be erected, reerected,
constructed, or altered, except as provided by this code and a permit for
the same has been issued by the City of Tukwila acting through its Planning
Director.
A separate permit is required for each group of signs on a single support
structure or the sign or signs for each business entity. In addition,
electrical permits shall be obtained for electrified signs.
19.12.020 Application Procedure. Application for a sign permit shall
be made in writing upon forms furnished by the Planning Department. Such
application shall contain the location of the proposed sign structure by
street number or legal description as well as the name and address of the
sign contractor or erector and the property owner or owners. If the owner
is a corporation, it must be registered with the State-of Washington. The
Planning Director may require the filing of additional plans or pertinent
information when in his judgment such information is necessary to ensure
compliance with this code.
19.12.030 Application for Sign Permit -- Contents. When applying for a
6
19.12.040 - 19.12.050
sign permit, a simple illustration showing how the proposed sign shall look
on the site shall be submitted. A vicinity map at a scale of one inch repre-
senting two hundred feet (or larger) shall be required showing the property
on which the proposed sign is located, the street and nearest intersection,
together with a site map at the scale of one inch representing twenty feet
or larger showing the location of the sign, structures, right -of -way, ease-
ments and property lines. Elevation projections of the proposed sign shall
also be submitted with the application and shall include but not be limited
to, the following: The sign's relationship to the property lines, ease-
ments, setback lines, supporting structure, colors and materials and method
of illumination.
19.12.040 Application -- Rejection -- Appeal. Rejection of any application
for a sign permit shall be made in writing by the Planning Director and
shall state the reasons therefor. A copy of the rejection notice shall be
signed "received" by the applicant or be mailed by certified mail, return
receipt requested, to the applicant at his designated address. Within
thirty days, the applicant may file with the Planning Department a notice
of appeal and request for review by the Board of Adjustment at a regular
meeting not later than sixty days from the date the notice of appeal is
filed, unless a later date is requested by the applicant.
After a review hearing, the Board of Adjustment shall file with the
Planning Director and send to the applicant a written decision either
denying the application or directing the Planning Director to issue the
permit. The decision of the Board of Adjustment shall be final and con-
clusive unless the original applicant or an adverse party makes application
to the Superior Court of King County for a writ of certiorari, a writ of
prohibition, or a writ of mandamus within forty days of the final decision
of the Board of Adjustment.
19.12.050 Exceptions -- Permits not Required. The following shall not
require a permit (these exceptions shall not be construed as relieving the
owner of any sign from the responsibility of its erection and maintenance
and its compliance with the provisions of this code or any other law or
ordinance regulating the same):
(A) The changing of the advertising copy or message on a painted
or printed sign, theater marquee, and similar signs speci-
fically designed for the use of replacement copy.
(B) Painting, repainting or cleaning of an advertising structure,
or the changing of the advertising copy or message thereon
shall not be considered an erection or alteration which
requires a sign permit unless a structural or electrical
change is made or the area or the shape of the sign is altered.
(C) Temporary signs and decorations customary for special
7
19.12.050
holidays such as Independence Day and.Christmas erected
entirely on private property.
(D) Real estate signs sixteen square feet in area offering
the immediate premises for sale, lease or rent, except
in R -1 zones where the maximum sign area allowed is six
square feet.
(E) Signs not exceeding four square feet in area, advertising
acceptance of credit cards provided these are located on
the face of a building or upon another larger sign back-
ground area for which a permit has been obtained.
(F) One on- premise sign not electrical or illuminated, four
square feet in area or less, which is affixed permanently
on a plane parallel to the wall that is located entirely
on private property.
(G) Traffic signs and /or markings, for the purpose of regulating,
warning, or guiding traffic, whether on public or private
property. Such signs and markings shall comply with the
Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and
Highways, current edition published by the U.S. Department
of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration.
(H) Bulletin boards not over twelve square feet in area for each
public, charitable or religious institution when the same
is located on the premises of said institution.
(I) Temporary signs denoting the architect, engineer or con-
tractor when placed upon work under construction and not
exceeding thirty -two square feet in area.
(J) Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings, and dates of
erection, when cut into any masonry surface or when constructed of
bronze or other noncombustible material.
(K) Signs of utilities indicating danger and service or safety
information.
(L) A maximum of four internal information signs as defined in
Section 19.08.100 and as regulated by Chapter 19.22.
(M) Political signs, posters, or bills promoting or publicizing
candidates for political office or issues that are to be
voted upon in an election shall not exceed twelve square
feet in area and shall be located entirely on private property
for a period not exceeding thirty days prior to any primary,
general or special election;'provided, however, that a suc-
8
• •
19.12.060
cessful candidate in the primary election shall not be
obligated to remove or to have removed signs, posters,
or bills between the primary and general elections,
and further provided that all signs, posters, or bills
shall be removed not later than the end of the fifth
day following any primary election in the case of those
candidates not surviving the primary, and not later .
than the fifth day following the general or special
election with regard to all candidates and issues. It
shall be the responsibility of the property owner to
have signs, posters or bills removed. No political
campaign signs of any type are permitted to be located
on any utility pole, bridge, sidewalk, or city -owned or
operated vehicle, or any public property of any kind..
(N) Window signs which are of a temporary nature for com-
mercial businesses and which occupy less than twenty -
five percent of the window surface for a period not
exceeding thirty days. Signs on or in the window which
are utilized for more than thirty days are permanent and
will be considered part of the overall signing permitted
for the business. Such permanent window signs shall
require permits.
(0) Signs of community service and fraternal organizations,
including notation of place and date of regular activity
meetings.
19.12.060 Criteria for. Granting Variances. The Board of Adjustment •
may grant a.variance to the requirements of this code only if the applicant
demonstrates compliance with the following criteria:
(A) The variance as approved shall not constitute a grant of special
privilege which is inconsistent with the intent of this sign
code nor which contravenes the limitation on use of property
specified by the zoning classification in which this property
is located.
(B) That the variance is necessary because of special circum-
stances 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.
(C) That the granting of the variance will not be materially
detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to property
or improvements in the vicinity and in the zone in which the
subject property is located.
9
19.12.070 - 19.12.110
(D) That the special conditions and circumstances prompting the
variance request do not result from the actions of the appli-
cant.
(E) That the variance as granted represents the least amount of
deviation from prescribed regulations necessary to accomplish
the purpose for which the variance is sought and which is con-
sistent with the stated intent of this code.
(F) That granting of the variance shall result in greater convenience
to the public in identifying the business location for which
a sign code variance is sought.
(.G) That the granting of the variance will not constitute a public
nuisance or adversely affect the public safety.
In additions, all facts shall.be presented and reviewed at an advertised public
hearing, and the proposed variance shall not interfere with the location and
identification of adjacent business buildings or activities.
19.12.070. Fees - Permanent Signs. At the time of application for a permit
to erect or install a sign or device controlled by this code, the Planning
Department shall collect a minimum fee of twenty -five dollars or twenty -five
cents per square foot of total sign face area, whichever is greater. This fee
does not include the costs of engineering checks nor of electrical or other
inspections required by other appropriate agencies.
19..12.080 Fees - Temporary Signs. For the installation of temporary signs,
banners, streamers, and other.special permit signs as provided in Chapter 19..24
of this title, the permit fee shall be twenty -five dollars.
19..12.09.0 Fees - -Work Started Prior to Permit Issuance. Where work for
which a permit is required by this code is started prior to obtaining a permit,
the fees specified in Sections 19.12.070. and 19.12.080 shall be doubled, but
the payment of such double fee shall not relieve any person from fully com-
plying with. the requirements of this code in the execution.of the work nor
from.any other penalties prescribed herein.
19:.12.100 Fees - Public Hearings. Where.a public hearing is requested for
consideration of special conditions which might affect detailed application of
code requirements, the filing and advertising fee shall be as specified in
Sections 18.72.030 through 19..72.060 of the Tukwila Municipal Code.
19..12..110 Maintenance and Removal of Signs. (A) All signs together
with their supports, braces, guys and anchors shall be kept in repair and in
proper state of preservation. The surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly
painted or posted at all times. The ground area shall be neat and orderly.
(B)_ The Planning Director may order the removal or maintenance of any
sign that is not maintained in a safe and orderly condition.. The order for
10
• •
19.12.120 - 19.12.130
removal or maintenance of any sign shall be sent by the Planning Director
to the person to whom the sign permit was granted, or the property owner if
no authorized permit was granted, by certified mail, return receipt requested.
If the action requested in the order is not taken within thirty (30) days
from the date of the notice, the Planning Director may direct the signs to
be removed from the premises. The permittee or owner shall be charged an
amount equal to the City cost for removal, but in no event shall the fee
be less than fifty dollars.
19.12.120 Special Permit Signs and Displays. Strings or pennants,
banners and streamers, festoons of lights, clusters of flags, balloons and
similar devices of a carnival nature may be displayed on private property
only,_ by. special permit. Such permit shall be issued for a period not
to exceed ten days and shall be issued no more than four times per year.
19.12.130 Revocation. The Planning Director is authorized and empow-
ered to revoke any permit upon failure of the holder thereof to comply with
any provision of this code.
11
Sections:
19.16.010
19.16.020
19.16.030
19.16.040
19.16.050
19.16.010 - 19.16.050
CHAPTER'19 :16
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
I. DESIGN
Conformance to Building Code Required
Exposed Surfaces -- Appearance
Glare Prevention Required
Wall Mounted Signs
Signs Near Intersections or Visible from
Vehicles
II. CONSTRUCTION
19.16.060 Supports. to Conform to Building Code
19.16.070 Materials
19.16.080 Electrical Wiring
19.16.090 Combustible Materials Displays
19.16 :100 Anchorage
I. DESIGN
19.16.010 Conformance to Building Code Required. Signs and sign struc-
tures shall be designed.and constructed in accordance with the requirements
for structures in the Uniform Building Code, Chapter 16.04 of the Tukvril.a
Municipal Code.
19.16.020 Exposed Surfaces -- Appearance. The exposed surfaces of all .
signs and sign supports shall present a neat and finished appearance, uti-
lizing the minimum number of elements and exposed fastening devices.
19.16.030 Glare Prevention Required. The signs shall be illuminated
or detailed in such a way that glare is not created for:occupants of sur-
rounding properties or for drivers or pedestrians using adjacent streets and
right -of -way.
19.16.040 Wall Mounted Signs. No part of a wall mounted sign shall
extend above the top of the wall to which the signing is attached.
19.16.050 Signs Near Intersections or Visible from Vehicles. Where
12
19.16.060 - 19.16.090
the sign is in the vicinity of an intersection, or where the sign is intended
to be read from moving vehicles, the graphic devices and letter styles
employed shall be clear and easy to read.
II. CONSTRUCTION
19.16.060 Supports to Conform to Building Code. Signs or sign struc-
tures shall be placed in or upon private property and shall be securely
built, constructed and erected in accordance with the requirements of the
adopted edition of the Uniform Building Code, Chapter 16.04 of the Tukwila
Municipal Code.
19.16.070 Materials. Materials of construction for signs and sign
structures shall be of the quality and grade as specified for buildings in
the adopted editions of the Uniform Building Code. InIall signs and sign
structures the materials and details of construction shall, in the absence
of specified requirements, conform with the following:
(A) Structural steel shall be of such quality as to conform with the
Uniform Building Code Standards. Secondary members in contact with or
directly supporting the display surface may be formed of light gauge steel,
provided such members are designed in accordance with the specifications of
the design of .light gauge steel as specified in the Uniform Building Code
Standards and, in addition, ferrous metals shall be galvanized. Secondary
members, when formed integrally with the display surface, shall not be
less than No. 24 gauge in thickness. When not formed integrally with the
display surface, the minimum thickness of the secondary members shall be
No. 12 gauge. Steel members may be connected with one galvanized or equi-
valent bolt provided the connection is adequate to transfer the stresses
in the members.
(B) Anchors and supports when of wood and embedded in the soil, or
within six inches of the soil, shall be of a durable species or shall be
pressure- treated with an approved preservative. Such members shall be
marked or branded by a recognized lumber grading or inspections agency.
19.16.080 Electrical Wiring. (A) All signs containing electrical
wiring shall be subject to the requirements of the National Electrical Code,
current edition, and shall bear the seal of a recognized testing agency and /or
be approved by the appropriate state agency.
(B) Electrical service shall be located underground or otherwise con-
cealed from view; meters and disconnects shall be integrated with the design
or its support to conceal or blend with it..
19.16.090 Combustible Materials Displays. All combustible gas- burning
displays, fossil fueled or other liquified or gassified combustible materials,
used for advertising or illumination in connection with advertising displays,
must meet all federal, state and municipal building and fire regulations and
codes and be certified by a nationally recognized testing organization such as
the American Gas Association.
13
• •
19.16.100
19.16.100 Anchorage. Members supporting unbraced signs shall be so
proportioned that the bearing loads imposed on the soil in either direction,
horizontal or vertical, shall not exceed the safe values. Braced ground signs
shall be anchored to resist the specific wind or seismic load acting in any
direction. Anchors and supports shall be designed for safe bearing loads
on the soil and for an effective resistance to pull -out amounting to a force
twenty -five percent greater than the required resistance to overturning.
Anchors and supports shall penetrate to a depth below ground greater than
that of the frost line. Signs attached to masonry, concrete, or steel shall
be safely and securely fastened by means of metal anchors. •
14
19.20.010 - 19.20.030
CHAPTER 19.20
SIGNS ON OR OVER PUBLIC RIGHTS -OF -WAY
Sections:
19.20.010 Projectins Over Public Right -of -Way
19.20.020 Signs on Public Right -of -Way
19.20.030 Permits Revocable
19.20.040 Hold Harmless Agreement
19.20.010. Projections Over Public Right -of =Way. (A) No permanent
signs shall project over the public right -of -way except for twelve inches
allowed for flat signs mounted on the face of a building.
(B) Where the proposed signs are perpendicular or at an angle to the
right -of -way, the building or support shall be set back as necessary so that
no portion shall extend over the public right -of -way.
(C) Minimum height above grade for flat signs projecting more than
four inches over public right -of -way on the face of buildings shall be eight
feet, but in no event shall a sign be located to create a safety hazard.
19.20.020 Signs on Publi:c'Right -of -Way. (A) Nothing in this code
shall be interpreted as controlling public and informational signs placed
on the public right -of -way by any governmental agency or utility having
underground or overhead installations.
(B) Public service directional signs for public buildings such as city
owned. buildings, public shcools, libraries, hospitals and.other similar public
service facilities, may be placed entirely on the public - right -of -way. Such
signs are limited to one of the foregoing types at locations approved by; :the
Planning Commission. Each sign must be of size, height, color, design and
mounting and so-!located as to comply in all respects with the Manual on Uni-
form Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways, current.edition pub-
lished by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administra-
tion.
(C) No sign may be placed in, on, or over City utility rights -of -way or
easement areas, except under prior agreement between the City and the property
owner.
19.20.030 Permits Revocable. All permits issued for any sign projec-
ting over a public right -of -way shall be a mere license, and revocable at any
time by the City of Tukwila acting through its Planning Director, upon due
notice, in case the permitted use becomes insecure or unsafe or is not con-
structed, maintained or used in accordance with the provisions of this code.
15
19.20.040
Upon revoking such permit, or at any time thereafter, the Planning Director
may request the permittee to discontinue or remove such sign supporting
structure. If it be not so discontinued or removed as requested within the
time specified, the Planning Director may remove such sign or structure, all
at the expense of the permittee, payment for which may be enforced in any
manner permitted by law.
19.20.040 Hold - Harmless Agreement.. The owner and /or the permittee of
any sign projecting over a public right -of -way shall agree to indemnify and
hold - harmless the City of Tukwila from loss, damage, judgments, costs or
expense which the City may incur or suffer, by reason of granting of the
permit prior to the issuance of any permit.
16
• •
19.22.010 - 19.22.040
CHAPTER 19.22
INTERNAL INFORMATIONAL SIGNS
Sections:
19.22.010 Permit Requirements -- Conformance
19.22.020 Content' Restricted
19.22.030 Wall- Mounted Signs -- Restrictions
19.22.040 Freestanding Signs -- Restrictions
19.22.010 Permit Requirements -- Conformance. A maximum of four internal
informational signs, as defined in Section 19.08.100 of this code shall be
exempt from the permit requirements of this code. However, all such signs
must conform to the design and placement regulations contained in this chapter.
Placement of five or more internal information signs of identical size and
appearance shall require a permit approved by the Planning Commission and
payment of a single fee as provided in Chapter 19.12.090 of this code..
19.22.020 Content Restricted. The information or copy displayed by
or on any internal informational sign shall be limited to only those letters
and /or. .symbols necessary to convey the required message in as brief a
manner as reasonably possible, and shall not advertise in any manner the
facility occupying the premises nor goods or services available nor hours
of operation. Upon application, the Planning Commission may authorize a
sign which will resolve a locational or traffic hazard problem. Such sign
must comply with all the regulations established in Chapter 19.22.
19.22.030 Wall- Mounted Signs -- Restrictions. Each wall- mounted sign
shall be permanently affixed to a wall on a plane parallel to that wall and
shall not exceed six square feet, unless otherwise approved by the Planning
Commission.
19.22.040 Freestanding Signs -- Restrictions. Each freestanding internal
informational sign shall be erected in a permanent manner and shall be
designed and located in accordance with the following restrictions:
(A) Freestanding signs shall not exceed an overall height of five
feet above average grade of adjacent street or driveway; unless otherwise
approved by the Planning Commission.
(B) The message conveyed by a freestanding sign may be located on a
background area not to exceed four square feet. A double -face sign may
not exceed eight square feet.
17
19.22.040
(C) Freestanding signs which shall obscure vision between the height
of three feet and ten feet of the street or driveway grade shall be set
back at least forty feet from the intersections of streets and /or drive-
ways.
(D) All freestanding signs shall be located in a landscaped area or
on a decorative base, unless otherwise approved by the Planning Commission.
18
Sections:
19.24.010
19.24.020
19.24.030
19.24.040
19.24.050
19.24.060
•
CHAPTER 19.24
TEMPORARY SIGNS
Area Restrictions- -Time Limit
Cloth Signs -- Support
Cloth Signs -- Projections
Cloth Signs -- Clearance
Real Estate Directional Signs
Sign Identification
9.24.010 - 19.24.030
19.24.010 Area Restrictions- -Time Limit. No temporary cloth sign
shall exceed one hundred square feet in area. Temporary signs of rigid
material shall not exceed thirty -two square feet in area and ten feet in
height; a multi -faced sign of rigid material may not exceed sixty -four
square feet in sign face area. Temporary signs may remain in place for a
period not exceeding thirty days, except real estate signs which may remain
for one hundred twenty days or special permit signs as provided in Section
19.12.120. The number of on-premise temporary signs shall be limited to
no more than four at any one time. Real estate directional signs are permitted
only during daylight hours and only when the real estate company repre-
sentative or agent or seller is in attendance at the property for sale.
Temporary sign permits or special permit signs as provided in Section
19.12.120 may be renewed for an identical period upon payment of an iden-
tical fee. Temporary signs as defined in Section 19.08.190 shall be con-
sidered permanent signs after three renewals of the time limits specified
in this code and shall be removed or brought into conformance with all
pertinent standards of dimension, construction and placement for permanent
signs contained in this code.
19.24.020 Cloth Signs -- Support. Every temporary cloth sign when ex-
tended over a public right -of -way shall be supported and attached with wire
rope of three eighths inch minimum diameter or other material of equivalent
breaking strength. No strings, fiber ropes or wood slats shall be permitted
for support or anchorage purposes. Cloth signs and panels shall be perfor-
ated over at least ten percent of their area to reduce wind resistance.
19.24.030 Cloth Signs -- Projection. Cloth signs may extend over public
property. Such signs, when extended over a public right -of -way, shall main-
tain a minimum clearance of twenty feet. Temporary signs other than cloth,
when eight feet-or more above ground, may project not more than twelve inches
over public property or beyond the legal setback line.
19
19.24.010 - 19.24.030
CHAPTER 19.24
TEMPORARY SIGNS
Sections:
19.24.010 Area Restrictions - -Time Limit
1.9.24.020 Cloth Signs -- Support
19.24.030 Cloth Signs -- Clearance
19.24.050 Real Estate Directional Signs
19.24.060 Sign Identification
19.24.010 Area Restrictions - -Time Limit. No temporary cloth sign
shall exceed one hundred square feet in area. Temporary signs of rigid
material shall not exceed thirty -two square feet in area and ten feet in
height; a multi -faced sign of rigid material may not exceed sixty -four
square feet in sign face area. Temporary signs may remain in place for
a period not exceeding thirty days, except real estate signs which may re-
main for-one hundred-twenty days or special permit signs as provided in
Section 19.12.120. The number of on- premise temporary signs shall be
limited to no more than four at any one time. Real estate directional
signs are permitted only during daylight hours and only when the real estate
directional signs are permitted only during daylight hours and only when the
real estate company representative or agent or seller is in attendance at
the property for sale.
Temporary sign permits or special permit signs as provided in Section
19.12.120 may be renewed for an identical period upon payment of an iden-
tical fee. Temporary signs as defined in Section 19.08.190 shall be con -
sidered . permanent signs after three renewals of the time limits specified in
this code and shall be removed or brought into conformance with all pertinent
standards of dimension, construction and placement for permanent signs con-
tained in this code.
19.24.020 Cloth Signs--Support. Every temporary cloth sign when ex-
tended over a public right -of -way shall be supported and attached with wire
rope of three eighths inch minimum diameter or other material of equivalent
breaking strength. No strings, fiber ropes or wood slats shall be permitted
for support or anchorage purposes. Cloth signs and panels shall be perfor-
ated over at least ten percent of their area to reduce wind resistance.
19.24.030 Cloth Signs -- Projection: Cloth signs may extend over public
property. Such.signs, when extended over a public right -of -way, shall main-
tain a minimum clearance of twenty feet. Temporary signs other than cloth,
when eight feet or more above ground, may project not more than twelve inches
over public property or beyond the legal setback line.
19
• •
19.24.040 - 19.24.060
19.24.040 Cloth Signs -- Clearance. Cloth signs may extend across a
public right -of -way only by permission of the City Council and shall be
subject to all related laws and ordinances.
19.24.050 Real Estate Directional Signs. (A) Real estate directional
signs shall have a maximum size of six square feet. Such directional signs
shall not.be placed closer than four feet to the edge of the public right -of-
way and shall not be placed in such a manner as to constitute a public safety
hazard.
(B) No more than two such signs shall be allowed at any one intersec-
tion. Only one sign per development shall be allowed at each intersection.
Three signs (total) per development shall be allowed.
19.24.060 Sign Identification. All temporary signs shall have the
sign permit number placed at the upper left -hand corner by the permittee.
20
CHAPTER 19.28
PROHIBITED SIGNS AND DEVICES
Sections:
19.28.010
19.28.010 Designated
19.28.020 Unauthorized Sign over Public Right -of -Way -- Removal
19.28.030 Nonconforming Signs
19.28.040 Closure and Vacation of. Business - -Time Limit for Sign Removal
19.28.010 Designated. The following signs or devices are specifically
prohibited:
(A) Signs adjacent to state roads and not complying with Washington
State Department of Transportation regulations.
(B) Signs using the words "Stop," "Look" or "Danger" or any other word,
symbol, character or color which might confuse traffic or detract from any
legal traffic control device.
(C) Animated signs unless specifically approved by the Planning Commis-
sion according to the following criteria:
(1) Such signing is deemed necessary to the type of marketing
customary to a particular classification of business enter-
prise.
(2) Such signing consists of a permanent fixture, and sypbols or
letters of plastic, metal or electronically controlled material.
(3) Message content of such signing is limited to time, date,
temperature, or business hours.
(D) Roof -top signs supported by exposed truss -work and wall- mounted
signs extending above the parapet line.
(E) Unique signs unless specifically approved by the Planning Commission;
permits may be approved if in the judgment of the Planning Commission the
effect of the proposed sign would not contribute to a cluttered, confusing or
unsafe condition.
(F) Permanent off - premise signs, except shared directional signs as
provided in Sections 19.32.020, billboards as provided in Section 19.32.040,
and planned shopping center (mall) signs as provided in Section 19.32..150..
21
• •
CHAPTER 19.28
PROHIBITED SIGNS AND DEVICES
Sections:
19.28.010
19.28.010 Designated
19.28.020 Unauthorized Sign over Public Right -of - Way -- Removal
19.28.030 Nonconforming Si gns!
19.28.040 Closure and Vacation of Business- -Time Limit for Sign Removal
'19.28.010 Designated. The following 'signs or devices are specifically
Prohibited:
(A) Adjacent to state roads and not complying with Washington State
Department of Transportation regulations.
(B) Signs using the words "Stop," "Look" or "Danger" or any other word,
symbol, character or color which might confuse traffic or detract from any
legal traffic control device.
(C) Animated signs unless specifically approved by the Planning Commis-
sion according to the following criteria:
(1) Such signing is deemed necessary to the type of marketing
customary to a particular classification of business enter -
pri se.
(2) Such signing consists of a permanent fixture, and symbols or
letters of plastic, metal or electronically controlled material.
(3) Message content of such signing is limited to time, date,
temperature, or business hours.
(D) Roof -top signs supported by exposed truss -work and wall- mounted
signs extending above the parapet line.
(E) Unique signs unless specifically approved by the Planning Commission;
permits may be approved if in the judgment of the Planning Commission the
effect of the proposed sign would not contribute to a cluttered, confusing or
unsafe condition.
(F) Permanent off - premise signs, except shared directional signs as
provided in Sections 19.32.020, billboards as provided in Section 19.32.040,
and planned shopping center (mall) signs as provided in Section 19.32.150.
21
•
19.28.020 - 19.28.030
(G) Strings of pennants, banners or streamers, festoons of lights,
clusters of flags, wind - animated objects, balloons and similar devices of
a carnival nature except as specifically provided in Chapters 19.12 and
19.24 of this code. (Not prohibited are national, state, and institutional
flags properly displayed or temporary signs and decorations customary for
special holidays, such as Independence Day, Christmas, Tukwila Days, and
similar events of a public nature.)
(H) Portable signs or any sign which is not permanently mounted,
including sandwich or "A" boards, except as provided in Sections 19.24.050
and 19.32.160 of this code.
(I) There shall be no signs or sign supports which shall obscure vision
between the height of three feet and ten feet of the street or driveway grade
allowed within forty feet of intersections of streets and /or driveways.
(J) Signs mounted or painted on stationary motor vehicles, trailers and
related devices in order to circumvent the intent of this code.
(K) Off- premise signs located within the "shoreline zone" as decribed
in Tukwila Municipal Code Sections 18.44; on- premise, permanent signs located
within the shoreline zone and specifically oriented to be visible from the
"river environment" (TMC 18.44.114).
19.28.020 Unauthorized Signs On or Over Public Right -of- Way -- Removal.
Unauthorized signs or other advertising devices either wholly or partially
supported on or projecting over the public right -of -way may be removed by the
Planning Director without notice to the owner. Such signs or devices shall
be held by the Planning Director fora period not to exceed thirty days,
during which time the owner may redeem such sign or device by payment to;.the
City an amount equal to the City cost for the removal and storage, but in
no event shall the fee be less than fifty dollars. After expiration of the
thirty day period, the sign not having been redeemed shall become the pro-
perty of the City of Tukwila.
19.28.030 Nonconforming Signs. Any nonconforming sign which was erected
prior to May 28, 1973, or which was erected legally in accordance with the
provisions of the sign ordinance in effect at the time of erection, or which
has a valid building permit from the City of Tukwila may remain in use
until such time as:
(A) There is a change in use of the land, building or tenant -space
within a building that the sign identifies; or
(B) There are substantial alterations or enlargements to the site or
building exterior upon which the nonconforming sign is located requiring
issuance of a license or permit from the City of Tukwila; or
(C) There.is a change in the letter style, size, color, background,
message or sign structure which requires manufacturing of a new or modified
sign face or structure.
22
• •
19.28.040
Exceptions: Easily replaceable bills and letters as in
the case of a readerboard requiring no new investment in
the sign shall not be considered modification of a non-
conforming sign. Signs not requiring a permit as provided
in Sections 19.12.050 (A) and (B) shall be considered modi-
fication of a nonconforming sign.
At such time, any nonconforming permanent sign shall be brought into confor-
mance with the requirements of this code or shall be removed.
19.28.040 Closure and Vacation of Business - -Time Limit for Sign Removal.
Upon the closure and vacation of a business or activity, the owner of said
business or activity shall have thirty days from the date of closure to remove
all signs relating to the business or activity. If the owner of the business
or activity fails to remove the signs within the designated time limit, then
the owner of the property upon which the signs are located shall remove the
signs within sixty days of the closure and vacation of the premises. If the
owner of the property on which the signs are located fails to remove the signs
within sixty days, then the Planning Director upon due notice may remove the
signs at the owner's expense.
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Sections:
CHAPTER 19.32
REGULATIONS BASED ON LAND USE CATEGORIES
I. GENERAL REGULATIONS
19.32 - Index
19.32.010 Generally
19.32.020 Shared Directional Signs
19.32.030 Signs in Underground Utility Easements and Corridors
19.32.040 Billboards- -Area Restrictions
19.32.050 Exposed Neon Tubing - -Use Restricted
19.32.060 Freestanding Signs -- Proximity to Certain Zones
19.32.070 Freestanding Signs -- Setback
II. SINGLE FAMILY ZONES
19.32.080 Home Occupation Signs -- Church, School, Public Facil-
ity and Approved Conditional Use Signs.
III. MULTIPLE FAMILY ZONES
19.32.090 Where Signs Will Face Single Family Zones or Parks
19.32.100 Where Signs Will Face Other Multiple Family or Com-
mercial or Industrial Zones
19.32.110 Multiple Family Development
IV. COMMERCIAL ZONES
19.32.120 Where Signs Will Face or Abut Single Family Zones
19.32.130 Where Signs Will Face or Abut Multiple Family Zones or
Public Facilities
19.32.140 Commercial Zones Where Signs Will Face or Abut Other
Commercial or Industrial Zones, Except as Provided in
Sections 19.32.150 -180 Inclusive.
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• •
19.32.010 - 19.32.040
V. SHOPPING CENTERS (MALL), PLANNED
19.32.150 Business Identification Signs -- Displays
VI. SERVICE STATIONS
19.32.160 Surrounded by Commercial or Industrial Zones
VII. INDUSTRIAL ZONES
19.32.170 Permitted Signs -- Height
VIII. FREEWAY INTERCHANGE BUSINESSES
19.32.180 Freestanding Signs -- Height and Area Allowance
I. GENERAL REGULATIONS
19.32.010 Generally. The type, character, number, location and size
of permanent signs varies with the land use category.in which the signs are
located. The land use categories are as established under Title 18 of the
Tukwila Municipal Code.
19.32.020 Shared Directional Signs. In commercial and industrial areas
where a demonstrated need for directional signing exists, owners or tenants
of these premises may petition the Planning Commission for review and approval
of the design of a shared directional sign. Such sign shall not exceed ten
feet in height, ten feet in width, and have a maximum of two signing surfaces
which do not exceed a total of fifty square feet. Such sign shall be located
on the premises of at least one of the entities identified thereon and shall,
be used only by geographically associated businesses. The sign structure
shall be located in a masonry base of decorative appearance. The shared
directional sign shall contain no promotional copy but shall be limited to
the names and addresses of the companies or activities being identified.
19.32.030 Signs in Underground Utility Easements and Corridors. Where
underground.utilityeasements or corridors have been established, no signs shall
be located in the corridor or easement except as specified in Section
19.20.020 (C).
19.32.040 Billboards - -Area Restrictions. Billboards shall not exceed
300 square feet in area. All billboard structures shall be of "single- post"
construction and shall be set back a minimum of 15 feet from the edge of the
public right -of -way; a greater setback may be required by the Public Works
Director to preserve adequate traffic safety sight distance. Billboards shall
not be spaced less than 500 lineal feet apart. In addition billboards shall
be located only on the following street corridors and only within those por-
tions thereof depicted on Exhibit B of this code: So. 180th Street, West
Valley Highway (SR 181) south of the Interstate 405 interchange, and Inter-
urban Avenue north of the Interstate 5 interchange.
25
19.32.050 - 19.32.100
19.32.050 Exposed Neon Tubing - -Use Restricted. No exposed neon tubing
.shall be used where sign face is within two hundred feet of a multiple family
or single family zone.
19.32.060 Freestanding Signs -- Proximity to Certain Zones. No freestanding
sign shall be locatedwithin one hundred feet of a multiple family or single
family zone, except as provided in Sections 19.32.080 -130 inclusive.
19.32.070 Freestanding Signs -- Setback. Any freestanding sign shall be
set back from all property lines a distance at least equal to the overall
height of the sign.
II. SINGLE FAMILY ZONES
19.32.080 Home Occupation Signs—Church, School, Public Facility and
Approved Conditional Use Signs. (A) Home occupations may be identified by
a single, non - illuminated wall plaque of not more than one - and - one -half
square feet.
(B) Churches, schools, public facilities _and approved conditional uses
may have one sign for each street upon which the property fronts; signs shall
be located in the setback area or upon the face of the building. Total area
of sign or signs shall not exceed thirty -two square feet; maximum height
above ground, when in setback area, shall not exceed five feet, and base of
sign shall be located in landscaped area. Bulletin boards and reader boards
are considered signs. All signs in Subsection 19.32.080 (B) must be approved
by the Planning Commission. Illuminated signs shall be front- lighted from
concealed sources or back - lighted channel letters or back - lighted cut -out
letters framed by an opaque cabinet or non - illuminated opaque sign panels.
III. MULTIPLE FAMILY ZONES
19.32.090 Where Signs Will Face Single Family Zones or Parks. Home
occupations may be identified by a single, non - illuminated wall plaque of
not more than one- and - one -half square feet.
19.32.100 Where Signs Will Face Other Multiple Family or Commercial
or Industrial Zones. (A) Home occupations may be identified by a single
wall plaque not more than two square feet; plaque may be illuminated from
front.
(B) Churches, schools, hospitals, public facilities and approved
conditional uses may have one sign for each street upon which the property
fronts. The total area of sign or signs shall not exceed sixty -four square
feet. Maximum height, when in setback area, shall not exceed ten feet, and
base of sign shall be in a landscaped area. Bulletin boards and reader
boards are considered signs. All signs in Subsection 19.32.100 (B) must be
approved by the Planning Commission. Signs may be illuminated from within
the- sign-cabinet, but exposed neon tubing or bare lamps shall not be, permitted.
26
1
19.32.110 - 19.32.130
19.32.110 Multiple Family Development. Each multiple family develop-
ment may have one sign for the purpose of naming or otherwise identifying
the project. Total area of the sign faces shall not exceed thirty -two square
feet; maximum height above average grade, when in setback area, shall not
exceed five feet, and base of the sign shall be located in landscaped area.
Illuminated signs shall be front - lighted from concealed sources or back-
lighted channel letters or back - lighted cut -out letters framed by an opaque
cabinet or non - illuminated opaque sign panels.
IV. COMMERCIAL ZONES
19.32.120 Where Signs Will Face or Abut Single Family Zones. (A) Home
occupations may be identified by a single, non - illuminated wall plaque of
not more than one - and - one -half square feet.
(B) Churches, schools, hospitals, public facilities and approved condi-
tional uses may have one sign for each street on which the property fronts;
signs to be located in the setback area or upon the face of the building.
Total area of sign or signs shall not exceed thirty -two square feet; maximum
height, when in setback area, shall not exceed five feet, and base of sign
shall be located in landscaped area. Bulletin boards and reader boards are
considered signs. All signs in Subsection 19.32.120 (B) must be approved by
the Planning Commission. Illuminated signs shall be front - lighted from con-
cealed sources or back - lighted channel letters or back - lighted cut -out letters
framed by an opaque cabinet or non - illuminated opaque sign panels.
(C) For commercial uses, including service stations, sign areas which
are sixty percent of those in Table 1 (see Section 19.32.140) are permitted;
other requirements as listed in Section 19.32.140.'
(D) All freestanding signs must be approved by the Planning Commission.
Permits may be approved if in the judgment of the Planning Commission the
effect of the proposed sign would not contribute to a cluttered•or confusing
condition or would generally degrade the physical appearance or character of
the street or neighborhood.
(E) Nonrolling equipment and merchandise must be displayed from within
buildings, or within glass fronted cases, except in connection with temporary
commercial, industrial or public service displays.
19.32.130 Where Signs Will Face or Abut Multiple Family Zones or
Public Facilities., (A) Home occupations may be identified by a single wall
plaque not more than two square feet; plaque may be illuminated from front.
(B) Churches, schools, hospitals, public facilities and approved con-
ditional uses may have one sign for each street upon which the property
fronts. The total area of sign or signs shall not exceed sixty -four square
feet. Maximum height, when in setback area, shall not exceed ten feet, and
base of sign shall be in landscaped area. Bulletin boards and reader boards
are considered signs. All signs in Subsection 19.32.130 (B) must be approved
27
• •
19.32.140
by the Planning Commission. Signs may be illuminated from within the sign
cabinet, but exposed neon tubing or bare lamps shall not be permitted.
(C) For commercial uses, including service stations, sign areas which
are ninety percent of those in Table 1 (see Section 19.32.140) are permitted;
other requirements are listed in Section 19.32.140.
(D) All freestanding signs must be approved by the Planning Commission.
Permits may be approved if in the judgment of the Planning Commission the
effect of the proposed sign would not contribute to a cluttered or confusing
condition or would generally degrade the physical appearance or character of
the street or neighborhood.
(E) Nonrolling equipment and merchandise must be displayed from within
the buildings or within glass fronted cases, except in connection with tempo-
rary commercial, industrial or public service displays.
19.32.140 Commercial Zones.Whe're Signs Will Face or Abut Other Commer-
cial or Industrial Zones, Except as Provided in Sections 19.32.150 -180 Inclu-
sive. (A) Signs mounted on exposed building faces: Each business shall be
permitted one exposed building face mounted sign. One additional 'exposed
building face mounted sign can be permitted for each business provided:
(1) That the business is not identified on a freestanding signs
and.
(2) That the business has more than one exterior public entrance
in the same building, exclusive of warehouse area doors, or
(3) That there is no more than one sign per business on any wall
of the building.
The area of all signs on the exposed building face for each business shall be
as provided in Table 1.
TABLE 1
Area (L x: H) -- Sq. Ft. Total Permitted Area of Sign - -Sq. Ft:
Exposed Building Face
0 -500 0.05 x Total Project Area in
Sq. Ft. (T.P.A.)
501 -1500 25 + 0.04 x (T.P.A. - 500)
1501 -3000 65 + 0.03 x'(T.P.A. - 1500)
3001 -5000 110 + 0.02 x (T.P.A. - 3000)
Over 5000 150 Square Feet (maximum)
Upon application to and approval by the Planning Commission, the permitted
sign areas provided in Table 1 may be increase no more than fifty percent
for each doubling of the required minimum setback distance for the wall upon
28
which a particular sign is to be place, but in no case shall sign area exceed
that permitted in Section 19.32.150.
(B) Office buildings with multiple tenancies shall only be identified
by the official name of the building, and internal directories shall be used
to identify the individual tenants.
Exception: Multi- tenant office buildings which will face or abut other com-
mercial or industrial zones and which have no common public entry shall be
permitted signs as follows:
(1) Each ground floor occupant shall be permitted an identification sign
which designates the name of the occupant and /or the type of occu-
pancy;;. Such sign shall be attached to the ground floor exposed
building face as defined in Section 19.08.050.
(2) All other tenants which have an exclusive entry on the ground floor
shall be allowed exterior signing to be placed on the ground floor
exposed building face in which that entry is located.
(3) The size of any building sign shall not exceed thirty (30) square
feet and shall not be longer than seventy percent (70%) of the
exposed building face that the business occupies in the building
and upon which the sign is to be placed.
(4) Each tenant may also display a room number /letter or street number
which is visible from the public street or principal access road-
way. Such a sign shall not be counted in the sign area permitted
for the business.
(5) Each group of professional offices may have a directory listing
the names of the tenants on the site and location map. The direc-
tory shall be oriented to the pedestrian on the site rather than
the passing motorist.
(C) Freestanding signs: One freestanding sign shall be permitted for
each site. One additional freestanding sign may be permitted for sites which
meet the following conditions:
(1) The site has at least 400 linear feet of frontage on a public
street.
(2) The site has at least two detached commercially- occupied buildings
neither of which is accessory to the other; and
(3) The site is occupied by at least two tenants. ,
Permitted sign area for each freestanding sign shall be as follows:
Street Frontage
Up to 200 '
200' to 400'
Over 400'
29
Sign Area /Sign
50 sq. ft. with total of 100 sq. ft.
75 sq. ft. with total of 150 sq. ft. for
all sides
100 sq, ft. with total of 200 sq. ft.
for all sides
19.32.150 - 19.32.160
Any permitted freestanding sign shall be limited in height to thirty -five
feet, provided that no freestanding sign shall be higher than the building
which it identifies.
Exception: For commercial sites which exceed ten gross acres, permitted
height of a freestanding sign may be increased two feet for each additional
increment of five acres in land area, provided that no freestanding sign
shall be higher than the highest point of any building on the site which
it identifies.
(D) The freestanding sign shall contain no promotional copy but shall
be limited to the name of the company or activity being identified and trade-
mark or logo, except where an approved readerboard ;is used.,,
(E) Nonrolling equipment must be displayed from within buildings or
glass- fronted cases, except in connection with temporary commercial, indus-
trial or public service displays.
V. SHOPPING CENTER (MALL), PLANNED
19.32.150 Building Identification Signs -- Displays. Businesses in a
planned shopping center (mall) shall be allowed signing equal to six percent
of the exposed building face area on which the sign is to be placed up to a
maximum of 500 square feet, with a maximum of two such signs allowed per
business and not more than one sign for any particular business allowed on
any one exposed building face. Businesses located on the perimeter of a
planned shopping center (mall) in detached, separate buildings shall be allowed
freestanding signs per Section 19.32.140 (C).
Identification signs for the center as a whole shall have an aggregate area
of not more than three hundred square feet per street which abuts the devel-
opment, and no one sign shall contain more than fifty percent of the allowable
sign area, unless approved by the Planning Commission. Freestanding signs
shall be allowed per Section 19.32.140 (C). Nonrolling equipment and mer-
chandise must be displayed from within buildings or glass- fronted cases,
except in connection with a temporary commercial, industrial or public service
display.
VI. SERVICE STATIONS
19.32.160 Surrounded by Commercial or Industrial Zones. Where service
stations are located across the street from or abut commercial or industrial
zones, the following requirements are applicable:
(A) One freestanding, lighted, double -faced identification sign not
exceeding one hundred fifty square feet for the total of all faces with no
one face exceeding seventy-five square feet is permitted. Such sign shall
not exceed a height of thirty -five feet. The sign shall be lighted only
during business hours.
30
• •
19.32.170 - 19.32.180
(B) One sign mounted on an exposed building face is permitted for each
street frontage and shall not exceed twenty percent of the exposed building
face area to which it is attached. Such face - mounted signs may be illuminated.
(C) Two unlighted double -faced signs not exceeding twenty square feet
per face are permitted. Such signs shall be non - portable and may be used for
advertising copy customarily displayed in service stations.
(0) In addition to the above regulations, the following signs are al-
lowed without permit:
(1) Signs at each pump island denoting the type of fuel, price and
service available, providing such signs are permanently mounted
to pumps or pump island structures.
(2) Signs on roll -away type racks advertising merchandise in such
racks. (Examples include tire racks, batteries, bulk oil sales,
etc.) Such signs are limited to two square feet.
VII. INDUSTRIAL ZONES
19.32.170 Permitted Signs -- Height. Signs shall be as described under
Section 19.32.140, except that height permitted for the first ten acres is
forty -five feet.
VIII. FREEWAY INTERCHANGE BUSINESSES
19.32.180 Freestanding Signs -- Height and Area Allowance. Height and
area restrictions for freestanding signs as prescribed in Section 19.32.140 (C)
may be increased twenty -five percent for freeway interchange businesses as
defined in Section 19.08.070 upon approval of the Planning Commission.
,31
19.36.010 - 19.36.020
CHAPTER 19.36
PENALTIES
Sections:
19.36.010 Penalty for Violations
19.36.020 Enforcing Authority
19.36.010 Penalty for Violations. Any person violating any of the
provisions of this title is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction
thereof shall be fined not to exceed five hundred dollars or shall be pun-
ished by.imprisonment not exceeding thirty days, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each day such violation is committed or permitted to continue
constitutes a separate offense and shall be punishable as such hereunder.
19.36.020 Enforcing Authority. The Planning Director or his desig-
nated representative is authorized and directed to enforce all provisions
of this code and is directed to issue citations on the Washington Uniform
Citation and Notice to Appear form to violators. The City Attorney is author-
ized and directed to enforce all provisions of this code when a citation has
been issued ordering violators to appear before the Tukwila Municipal Court
to answer s.uch charges.
32