HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrd 2742 - Reenact TMC Title 19 "Sign and Visual Communication Code"City of Tukwila
Washington
Ordinance No. I-'
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, REPEALING VARIOUS
ORDINANCES AS CODIFIED IN TUKWILA MUNICIPAL
CODE (TMC) TITLE 19, "SIGN AND VISUAL
COMMUNICATION CODE"; REENACTING TITLE 19; TO
REMOVE AMBIGUITIES, IMPROVE CLARITY, CODIFY
INTERNAL POLICIES, AND REFLECT CHANGES IN
STATE LAW; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, in 2023, the Washington State Legislature recently adopted Senate Bill
5290 ("SB 5290"), which made changes to the land use permitting process; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to update language in the Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC),
Title 19, "Sign and Visual Communication Code," in alignment with current practices, to
improve clarity, and to bring the TMC into compliance with SB 5290; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the amendments herein further the public health,
safety, and welfare of the residents of Tukwila.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Adoption of Findings of Fact. The City Council hereby adopts the
foregoing recitals and incorporates them herein as support for these amendments.
Section 2. Repealer. All ordinances as codifed in Title 19, "Sign and Visual
Communication Code," and as referenced in Exhibit A, are hereby repealed, thereby
eliminating Title 19 in its entirety.
Section 3. TMC Title 19 Reenacted. TMC Title 19 is hereby reenacted to read as
follows:
2024 Legisation: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Staff: 1!loor
Page 1 of 3
TITLE 19
SUBDIVISIONS AND PLATS
Chapters:
19.04 General Provisions
19.08 Definitions
19.12 Permits
19.16 Construction, Maintenance and Removal of Signs
19.20 Permanent Signs
19.22 Tukwila Urban Center Opt -Out Provision
19.24 Temporary Signs
19.32 Master Sign Program
19.36 Non -Conforming Provisions
19.37 Non -Confirming Signs in Annexation Areas
19.38 Billboards
Figures (located at back of this section)
Figure 1 Billboard Receiving Area — North of Boeing Access Road
(for illustrative purposes only)
Figure 2 Billboard Receiving Area — North of 180'' Street
(for illustrative purposes only)
Figure 3 Sign Height
Figure 4 Sign Sight Distance Triangle
Section 4. Chapters Established. All chapters and figures of TMC Title 19 are hereby
established to read as referenced in Exhibit B.
Section 5. Corrections by City Clerk or Code Reviser Authorized. Upon
approval of the City Attorney, the City Clerk and the code reviser are authorized to make
necessary corrections to this ordinance, including the correction of clerical errors;
references to other local, state or federal laws, codes, rules, or regulations; or ordinance
numbering and section/subsection numbering.
Section 6. 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 7. 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 (5) 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 2- day of (k{'\7101Y (r , 2024.
2024 Legislation. Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Staff: I. Gloor
Page 2 of 3
ATTEST/AUTHENTICATED:
Andy Youn, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY:
Office of the City Attorney
onh}as McLeod, M _ or
Filed with the City Clerk: \O
Passed by the City Council: 'lO
Published:
Effective Date:
Ordinance Number: ;44 2-,
Exhibit A: Repealers
Exhibit B: Reenacted Title 19, "Sign and Visual Communication Code"
2024 Legislation: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Staff: I. Gloor
Page 3 of 3
City of Tukwila Public Notice of Ordinance Adoption for Ordinances 2738 - 2744.
On October 21, 2024, the City Council of the City of Tukwila, Washington, adopted the following
ordinances, the main points of which are summarized by title as follows:
Ordinance 2738: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 2293 §13 AND 2676 §1, AS CODIFIED AT
TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE (TMC) SECTION 8.22.120; AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 2547
§12, AS CODIFIED AT TMC SECTION 8.45.070; TO REMOVE AMBIGUITIES, CODIFY
INTERNAL POLICIES, AND REFLECT CHANGES IN STATE LAW; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ordinance 2739: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 2171 §1 (PART), AS CODIFIED AT TUKWILA
MUNICIPAL CODE (TMC) SECTION 16.04.040; AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 2171 §1
(PART), 2648 §4, 2673 §1, AND 2702 §4, AS CODIFIED AT TMC SECTION 16.04.250; TO
REMOVE AMBIGUITIES, CODIFY INTERNAL POLICIES AND REFLECT CHANGES 1N STATE
LAW; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ordinance 2740: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, REPEALING VARIOUS ORDINANCES AS CODIFIED IN TUKWILA
MUNICIPAL CODE (TMC) TITLE 17, "SUBDIVISIONS AND PLATS'; REENACTING TITLE 17;
TO REMOVE AMBIGUITIES, IMPROVE CLARITY, CODIFY INTERNAL POLICIES, AND
REFLECT CHANGES IN STATE LAW; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ordinance 2741: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, REPEALING VARIOUS ORDINANCES AS CODIFIED IN TUKWILA
MUNICIPAL CODE (TMC) TITLE 18, "ZONING"; REENACTING TITLE 18; TO REMOVE
AMBIGUITIES, IMPROVE CLARITY, CODIFY INTERNAL POLICIES, AND REFLECT
CHANGES IN STATE LAW; PROVIDING FOR SERVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ordinance 2742: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, REPEALING VARIOUS ORDINANCES AS CODIFIED IN TUKWILA
MUNICIPAL CODE (TMC) TITLE 19, "SIGN AND VISUAL COMMUNICATION CODE";
REENACTING TITLE 19; TO REMOVE AMBIGUITIES, IMPROVE CLARITY, CODIFY
INTERNAL POLICIES, AND REFLECT CHANGES IN STATE LAW; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ordinance 2743: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 1331 §19, 1344 §10, 1770 §84, AND 2374 §1,
AS CODIFIED AT TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE (TMC) SECTION 21.04.210; TO REMOVE
AMBIGUITIES, CODIFY INTERNAL POLICIES AND REFLECT CHANGES IN STATE LAW;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ordinance 2744: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, REZONING CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 6250 5. 151ST
STREET, TUKWILA, FROM LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (LDR) TO MEDIUM DENSITY
RESIDENTIAL (MDR); PROVIDING FOR SEVERA131LITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
The full text of these ordinances will be provided upon request
Andy Youn, Records Governance Manager/City Clerk
Published Seattle Times: October 24, 2024
EXHIBIT A:
REPEALERS
Chapters Ordinance(s) Repealed
19.04 General Provisions 2303 §1 (part)
19.08 Definitions 2303 §2 (part); 2375 §1; 2375 §2;
2375 §3; 2375 §4; 2679 §1
19.12 Permits 2303 §3 (part); 2375 §5; 2469 §1;
2501 §1; 2501 §2; 2501 §3;
2549 §26; 2549 §27
19.16 Construction, Maintenance and
Removal of Signs 2303 §4 (part)
19.20 Permanent Signs 2305 §5 (part); 2375 §6, §7, §8,
& §9; 2409 §1; 2501 §4 & §5;
2679 §2, §3 & §4
19.22 Tukwila Urban Center Opt -Out
Provisions
19.24 Temporary Signs
19.28 Variances
19.32 Master Sign Program
19.36 Non -Conforming Provisions
19.37 Non -Conforming Provisions
in Annexation Areas
19.38 Billboards
2303 §6 (part)
2303 §7 (part); 2501 §6 & §7;
2549 §28
2303 §8 (part)
2303 §9 (part); 2375 §10; 2501 §8;
2679 §5
2303 §10 (part); 2444 §1 & §2
2375 §11 (part)
2303 §11 (part); 2501 §9
EXHIBIT B:
REENACTED TITLE 19
"SIGN AND VISUAL COMMUNICATION CODE"
TITLE 19
SIGN AND VISUAL COMMUNICATION CODE
Chapters:
19.04 General Provisions
19.08 Definitions
19.12 Permits
19.16 Construction, Maintenance and Removal of Signs
19.20 Permanent Signs
19.22 Tukwila Urban Center Opt -Out Provision
19.24 Temporary Signs
19.32 Master Sign Program
19.36 Non -Conforming Provisions
19.37 Non -Conforming Signs in Annexation Areas
19.38 Billboards
Figures (located at back of this section):
Figure 1 Billboard Receiving Area — North of Boeing Access Road (for illustrative
purposes only)
Figure 2 Billboard Receiving Area — North of 180th Street
(for illustrative purposes only)
Figure 3 Sign Height
Figure 4 Sign Sight Distance Triangle
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 1 of 43
Sections:
19.04.010
19.04.020
19.04.030
19.04.040
19.04.050
19.04.060
19.04.070
CHAPTER 19.04
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Title
Intent
Liability for Damages
Severability Clause
Third Party Review and Inspections
Substitution
Conflict with Other Adopted Environmental Regulations
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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 2 of 43
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 code or its application
to any other person or situation.
19.04.050Third Party Review and 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.
19.04.060 Substitution
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, noncommercial copy may be
substituted for commercial copy on any lawful sign structure.
19.04.070Conflict with Other Adopted Environmental Regulations
Nothing in this title shall be interpreted to allow a violation of the City's Sensitive
Area Regulations or Shoreline Regulations. In cases of conflict between the Sign Code
and the City's adopted Sensitive Area Regulations and/or Shoreline Regulations, the
requirements of the Sensitive Area Regulations and/or Shoreline Regulations shall
prevail.
CHAPTER 19.08
DEFINITIONS
Sections:
19.08.010 Generally
19.08.020 Abandoned Sign
19.08.030 Awning
19.08.040 Awning/Canopy Side Sign
19.08.050 Awning/Canopy Sign, Under
19.08.055 Awning Face Sign
19.08.060 Billboard
19.08.065 Building -Mounted Sign
19.08.067 Billboard Receiving Areas
19.08.069 Billboard Sending Areas
19.08.070 Cabinet Sign
19.08.072 Canopy
19.08.074 Canopy Edge Sign
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 3 of 43
19.08.076 Channel Letters
19.08.080 Commercial Real Estate Signs
19.08.082 Commercial Zones
19.08.084 Corner Projecting Sign
19.08.090 Department
19.08.091 Digital Billboard
19.08.092 Director
19.08.094 Dynamic Sign
19.08.100 Electronic Sign
19.08.110 Exposed Building Face
19.08.120 Flush Mounted Building Sign
19.08.130 Freestanding Sign
19.08.140 Freeway Interchange Sign
19.08.142 Fuel Canopy
19.08.144 GBCI
19.08.145 Height, Freestanding Sign
19.08.150 Industrial Zone
19.08.155 Institutional Use
19.08.160 Landmark Business
19.08.162 LEED
19.08.165 Master Sign Program
19.08.170 Monument Sign
19.08.180 Multi -Family Complex
19.08.183 Mural
19.08.185 Off -Premise Signage
19.08.190 Parking Structure Incentive Sign
19.08.195 Permanent Sign
19.08.200 Pole Banner
19.08.210 Portable Sign
19.08.215 Projecting Sign
19.08.220 Premises
19.08.225 Residential Zone
19.08.230 Sight Distance Triangle
19.08.235 Sign
19.08.240 Sign Area
19.08.245 Standard Billboard
19.08.247 Tukwila Urban Center
19.08.250 Temporary Sign
19.08.260 Tukwila International Boulevard Corridor
19.08.265 Window Sign
19.08.270 Window Sign, Temporary
19.08.280 Wireless Communications Facility
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
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 4 of 43
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
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
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
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
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
Awning Face Sign means a sign applied to the main face of an awning, including
sloped and vertical surfaces.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 5 of 43
19.08.060 Billboard
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
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
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; those properties along East Marginal Way, north of Boeing Access
Road; and all properties located along Airport Way, north of Boeing Access Road, for
which permits for new billboards may be issued if the criteria of this title are satisfied.
Attachments A and B, codified in Title 19 as Figures 19-1 and 19-2, are hereby amended.
These maps show the billboard receiving areas listed with this definition and are for
illustrative purposes only.
19.08.069 Billboard Sending Areas
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
Cabinet Sign means a geometrically -shaped sign with a translucent face, backlit by
an internal light source.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 6 of 43
19.08.072 Canopy
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
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
Channel Letters mean three-dimensional, individually -cut letters or figures affixed to
a structure.
19.08.080 Commercial Real Estate Signs
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
Commercial Zones means any area of the City zoned 0, MUO, RCC, NCC, RC,
RCM, TUC, C/LI, TVS or TSO.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 7 of 43
19.08.084 Corner Projecting Sign
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
Department means the Department of Community Development or subsequent
organizational successor.
19.08.091 Digital Billboard
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 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
Director means the Director of Community Development or his/her designee.
19.08.094 Dynamic Sign
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
Electronic Sign means a sign containing a display that can be changed by electrical,
electronic or computerized process.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 8 of 43
19.08.110 Exposed Building Face
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
Flush Mounted Building Sign means a sign located on and parallel to a building wall.
19.08.130 Freestanding Sign
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
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.
19.08.142 Fuel Canopy
Fuel Canopy is a structure designed to provide weather protection to motorists in
order for them to fill vehicles with gasoline, diesel, compressed natural gas, propane,
electricity or other similar compounds that allow for the powering of vehicles. The
following components must be in place beneath the structure in order for this definition to
apply to a structure: 1) There must be at least two fuel dispensing devices; and 2)
Customers must have the ability to pay electronically.
19.08.144 GBCI
GBCI means the Green Building Certification Institute or successor entity.
19.08.145 Height, Freestanding Sign
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. See
Figure 19-3.
19.08.150 Industrial Zone
Industrial Zone means any area of the City zoned LI, HI, MIC/L or MIC/H.
19.08.155 Institutional Use
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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 9 of 43
19.08.160 Landmark Business
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.
19.08.162 LEED
LEED means the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design or successor
program, as administered by the United States Green Building Council or successor
agency.
19.08.165 Master Sign Program
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
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
Multi -Family Complex means any structure or group of structures within a residential
zone that contains at least five dwelling units.
19.08.183 Mural
An expression of public art painted directly on the exterior of a building or on a
backing that is affixed to the building and that has the consent of the property owner. Text
or logos related to the businesses located at the site are not considered to be part of a
mural and are subject to the regulations set forth in this code.
19.08.185 Off -Premise Signage
Off -Premise Signage means a permanent sign not located on the premises of the
use or activity to which the sign pertains.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 10 of 43
19.08.190 Parking Structure Incentive Sign
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
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
Pole Banner means a fabric banner sign attached to a street or parking lot light pole.
19.08.210 Portable Sign
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
Projecting Sign means a permanent sign perpendicular to the building facade and
suspended from a bracket or armature or cantilevered to the building.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 11 of 43
19.08.220 Premises
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
Residential Zone means any area of the City zoned LDR, MDR or HDR.
19.08.230 Sight Distance Triangle
Sight Distance Triangle. See Figure 19-4
19.08.235 Sign
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
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
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 TMC 19.08.091.
19.08.247 Tukwila Urban Center
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
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
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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 12 of 43
19.08.265 Window Sign
Window Sign is a sign applied to a window or mounted or suspended directly behind
a window.
19.08.270 Window Sign, Temporary
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 Communications Facility
Wireless Communications 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.
CHAPTER 19.12
PERMITS
Sections:
19.12.010 Administration
19.12.020 Sign Permits Required
19.12.030 Exceptions - Sign Permits Not Required.
19.12.040 Prohibited Signs and Devices
19.12.050 Process
19.12.060 Sign Code Violations
19.12.010 Administration
The Director of Community Development (hereinafter "Director") or their 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 TMC
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. All permits referenced in this
Title are subject to the permitting requirements found in TMC 18.104.
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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 13 of 43
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.
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 TMC 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. Refacing, panel change or copy change on existing conforming, monument
signs that have valid Tukwila sign permits as permitted by TMC 19.20.030 (B)(7),
19.20.040 (6), or 19.32.075.
3. Temporary window signs, subject to the limitations of TMC 19.24.080.
4. Traffic signs and/or markings installed 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. Land use notice boards per TMC 18.104.110.
7. Text or graphics on umbrellas located in outdoor seating or plaza areas.
8. 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.
9. 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 four signs that are temporary
in nature, for a total sign area of 12 square feet, with no sign larger than 6 square feet.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 14 of 43
10. Display of up to three flags, each on individual flag poles, per premise. Content
of the flags is not regulated.
11. Banners within the City's right-of-way, located on City -owned light poles, City -
owned street light signal poles, or hanging above the right-of-way when approved by the
Director of Public Works or designee.
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 or City -owned property 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 TMC 19.12.030.4.
5. Any sign, symbol, object or device that is placed or hung from a tree, bush,
shrub or other vegetation.
6. Strings of pennants, banners or streamers, searchlights, clusters of flags, wind -
animated objects, balloons and similar devices except as provided under TMC 19.24.060.
7. The use of portable signs or other similar devices, unless permitted under TMC
19.24.070.
8. Dynamic signs, except those types specifically permitted under this code.
9. Abandoned signs.
10. No sign may be placed on any property without the property owner's
permission. Private property owners shall be responsible for the removal of signs
placed on their property without their permission.19.12.050 Process
Sign Permit and Master Sign Program applications are type 1 decisions
pursuant to TMC 18.104.010. 19.12.060 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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 15 of 43
B. 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 10 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 10-day period has expired, the
City shall have the right to dispose of the signs.
C. Any violation of this code shall be considered a public nuisance and subject to
enforcement and penalties as prescribed by TMC 8.45 and the issuance of a Notice of
Violation in accordance with TMC 8.45.070.
CHAPTER 19.16
CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND REMOVAL OF SIGNS
Sections:
19.16.010 Construction
19.16.020 Structural Review
19.16.030 Required Inspections for Permanent Signs
19.16.040 Maintenance
19.16.050 Removal of Abandoned Signs
19.16.060 Immediate Removal, Public Safety
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 TMC 19.16.020, the applicant or
installer shall contact the City to request a footing inspection before the concrete has been
poured or bracket inspection before a building -mounted sign is installed.
B. It is the responsibility of the installer to obtain an electrical permit and
associated inspections from the City if the sign uses electrical power.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 16 of 43
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 TMC 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 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 TMC 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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 17 of 43
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.
CHAPTER 19.20
PERMANENT SIGNS
Sections:
19.20.010 Intent
19.20.020 Application Requirements
19.20.030 Permanent Signs in Residential Zones
19.20.040 Permanent Free -Standing Signage in Commercial/Industrial Zones
19.20.050 Permanent Building -Mounted Signs in Commercial/Industrial Zones
19.20.060 Pole Banners
19.20.070 Dynamic Displays in Commercial/Industrial Zones
19.20.010 Intent
A. 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 Application Requirements
A. All applications to install a permanent sign or other visual communication device shall be subject
to the application requirements found at TMC 18.104.060.
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. Monument signs located on a premise with at
least one building that is certified as LEED by the GBCI shall be permitted to be 35 square
feet per face and a total of 70 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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 18 of 43
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.
7. A monument sign permitted under this section is permitted to complete
refaces, panel changes and copy changes without the need to obtain a new permit,
provided ALL of the following criteria are met:
a. The monument sign was authorized by the City under a permit issued
on or after August 24, 2010.
b. The property owner, or authorized agent of the property owner, was
the applicant to secure the permit as required under this section.
c. The reface or copy change does not include any structural changes
to the sign that result in a change of sign or message area, modification in sign height,
inclusion of a dynamic sign component, or change in the monument sign's location.
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 TMC 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 TMC 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
10pm.
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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 19 of 43
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
A. Monument/freestanding 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 below.
Table 1 — Design Standards for Permanent Monument
Signs in Commercial and Industrial Zones
Total ROW of
Premise
Allowable Sign Message
Area
Total Allowable Sign
Size
Maximum
Height
Number of Signs
Less than 400
feet
36 square feet per
side/72 square feet total
54 square feet per
side/108 square feet
total
6 feet
One
400-599 feet
50 square feet per
side/100 square feet
total
70 square feet per
side/140 square feet
total
7 feet
One
600-799 feet
60 square feet per
side/120 square feet
total
80 square feet per
side/160 square feet
total
7 feet
One
800-999 feet
66 square feet per
side/132 square feet
total
88 square feet per
side/176 square feet
total
8 feet
Two
1,000 feet and
over
72 square feet per
side/144 square feet
total
96 square feet per
side/192 square feet
total
8 feet
One for every 400 feet of
linear street frontage.
a. Allowable sign message area is either the face panel of the sign or,
for channel letters or signs painted on seating or retaining walls, that portion of the sign
devoted to the actual message, logo or business name.
b. Total size is the entire area of the sign, including the support
structure.
c. Monument signs located on a premise with at least one building that
is certified as LEED by the GBCI shall be permitted to have a sign message area increase
and total size area increase of one percent.
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 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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact Page 20 of 43
Version: 10/17/24
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. Maximum 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.
6. A monument sign permitted under this section is permitted to complete
refaces and copy changes without having to obtain a new permit, provided ALL of the
following criteria are met:
a. The monument sign was authorized by the City under a permit issued
on or after August 24, 2010.
b. The property owner, or authorized agent of the property owner, was
the applicant to secure the permit as required by TMC 19.20.040 (6)(a).
c. The reface or copy change does not include any structural changes
to the sign that result in a change of sign or message area, modification in sign height,
inclusion of a dynamic sign component, or change in the monument sign's location.
19.20.050 Permanent Building -Mounted Signs in Commercial/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. Additionally, each
multi -tenant premise with one or more buildings totaling 25,000 square feet or more, but
that does not qualify for the Master Sign Program and has gone through design review,
is allowed one additional flush -mounted building sign of up to 50 square feet for the
complex in addition to individual tenant signs. In the MIC/H zone no more than one flush -
mounted wall sign shall be permitted per cardinal direction; regardless of the location of
public entrances.
2. Buildings where multiple tenants share a common entrance may have one
flush -mounted building sign per exterior public entrance.
3. Wall signs may only be placed within the section of exposed building face
that qualifies for the placement of the building -mounted sign.
4. The area of the wall sign shall be a percentage of the area of exposed
building face where the sign is proposed to be displayed, as calculated per Table 2.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact Page 21 of 43
Version: 10/17/24
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
Face (EBF) in
Square Feet
Permitted Sign Area
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 (except
for buildings within
the
MIC/H District
150 square feet maximum size permitted
The additional
to buildings
sign allowances below shall only apply
located on properties within the MIC/H District.
5,001 - 20,000
(EBF-5,000) x .015 + 150 square feet
20,001 - 50,000
(EBF-20,000) x .015 + 375 square feet
50,001 - 80,000
(EBF-50,000) x .015 + 825 square feet
80,001 - 100,000
(EBF-80,000) x .01 + 1,275 square feet
Over 100,000
1,500 square feet maximum size permitted
(1) Any flush -mounted (wall) sign affixed to a building certified as LEED by the GBCI shall
be permitted an area increase of .5 percent of the permitted sign area from Table 2.
(2) A fuel canopy, as defined in this title, is permitted to install one flush -mounted building
sign (wall sign) on each separate elevation of the fuel canopy structure. The area of the
sign shall not exceed 10 square feet or one-third the area of the surface to which the sign
is attached (whichever is less); illumination of the sign is permitted.
B. Awning Face Sign: An awning face sign may be substituted for a flush -
mounted building sign, allowed under TMC 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:
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact Page 22 of 43
Version: 10/17/24
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 TMC
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.
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 TMC 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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 23 of 43
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 TMC
19.20.050.A through E.
1. Under-Awning/Canopy Sign:
a. Under-awning/canopy signs must be located adjacent to a public
entrance from a public or private sidewalk into a business.
b. No more than one sign shall be permitted per business, per facade.
c. No sign may exceed three square feet in size.
d. No sign may project farther from the building than its associated
awning or canopy.
e. No part of the sign may be less than eight feet above the level of the
sidewalk or right-of-way over which it projects.
2. Awning/Canopy Side Sign:
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 facade as a public entrance to the
business are eligible for permanent window signs.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 24 of 43
c. No more than ten percent of the total ground -floor transparent -
window area along the exposed building face of a business may be occupied by
permanent window signs. Spandrel, opaque and mirrored glass do not qualify for window
signage.
d. No individual sign may be larger than six square feet.
e. In no case shall the total sign area in the window, both of permanent
window signs and temporary window signs, exceed 25 percent of the window area.
f. The letter height for window signs shall not exceed eight inches.
g. The signs may be made of gold or silver leaf, vinyl or paint, applied
directly to the glass; etched into the glass; neon mounted or suspended behind the glass;
or framed and mounted paper signs. Posters that are not framed are not considered
permanent window signs and may only be permitted under TMC 19.24.080, "Temporary
Window Signs."
h. If the signs are illuminated, only exposed neon tubing is permitted.
4. Incentive Signage. The allowable area of the sign allowed under this
provision is 50 percent of that calculated in Table 2, "Allowable Message Area for
Permanent Wall Signs in Commercial and Industrial Zones." Businesses may be
permitted additional flush -mounted building signage on walls fronting their tenant spaces
that do not qualify for the signage described in TMC TMC 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.
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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 25 of 43
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 permitted in the Tukwila Urban Center zone and on properties
that contain a Public Recreation Overlay as defined by Title 18 of the TMC.
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 10 square feet, with a limit of 2 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/Industrial Zones
A. Dynamic signs are strictly prohibited within commercial and industrial zones,
except where specifically allowed for designated sign types.
CHAPTER 19.22
TUKWILA URBAN CENTER OPT -OUT PROVISIONS
Sections:
19.22.010 Purpose
19.22.020 New Opt -outs Not Permitted
19.22.025 Other Chapters Remain in Force
19.22.027 Application Requirements
19.22.030 Allowable Signage
19.22.035 Dynamic Signs
19.22.040 Right to Opt -Back In
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 26 of 43
19.22.010 Purpose
A. The Tukwila Urban Center defined in TMC 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 established an "opt -out"
provision for properties that currently do not have the development pattern that would
benefit from the sign regulations found in TMC 19.20.
19.22.020 New Opt -outs Not Permitted
A. In order to opt -out of the provisions of this Title, property owners must have
submitted a letter to the Director notifying the City of the property owner's intent to opt -
out within one year of the effective date of Ordinance No. 2303, passed in 2010. As this
date has now passed, no new opt -outs shall be permitted.
19.22.025 Other Chapters Remain in Force
A. A decision to opt out as permitted by TMC 19.22.020 is only from TMC 19.20
and all other chapters of this Title shall remain in full force. Properties that have opted out
of the requirements of TMC 19.20 are ineligible to participate in the Master Sign Program
found in TMC 19.32 unless the property owner chooses to opt back in pursuant to TMC
19.22.040.
19.22.027 Application Requirements
A. All applications to install a permanent sign or other visual communication
device under this chapter shall be subject to the application requirements found at TMC
18.104.
19.22.030 Allowable Signage
A. A premise that has opted out will only be allowed permanent signs under the
provisions of this section.
1. Permanent Wall Signs: Each tenant space shall be permitted one
permanent wall sign. An additional permanent wall sign is permitted if the tenant is not
listed on a freestanding sign on the premises. The following criteria shall be met for all
permanent wall signs:
a. The area of the wall sign shall be a percentage of the area of exposed
building face of the tenant space, as calculated per Table 1.
Table 1 — Allowable Message Area for Permanent Wall
Signs in the Southcenter Parkway Corridor
Area (LxH) of
Exposed Building
Face (EBF) in Square
Feet
Permitted Sign Area
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
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 27 of 43
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 19.22.030
(B):
a. Area of Sign.
Street
Frontage
Sign Area/Sign
Up to 200
feet
50 sq ft. with a total of 100 sq ft. for all sides.
200 to 400
feet.
75 sq. ft. with a total of 150 sq. ft. for all sides.
Over 400
feet.
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
A. Properties that choose to opt out of the provisions of TMC 19.20 are prohibited
from having any sign which may be considered a dynamic sign.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact Page 28 of 43
Version: 10/17/24
19.22.040 Right to Opt -Back In
A. A property owner that previously was approved to opt out may choose to opt
back in to the signs permitted under TMC 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 19.20 with copies to all affected tenants.
2. The letter must identify all signs that do not conform to the requirements
of TMC 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 19.20,
the letter must be accompanied by sign permit applications identifying how they will
achieve conformance.
CHAPTER 19.24
TEMPORARY SIGNS
Sections:
19.24.010 Purpose
19.24.020 Application Requirements
19.24.030 Temporary Signs in Residential Zones
19.24.040 Temporary Signs in Commercial and Industrial Zones
19.24.050 General Provisions for all Temporary Signs
19.24.060 Additional Temporary Signage
19.24.070 Portable Signs
19.24.080 Temporary Window Signs
19.24.090 Violations
19.24.010 Purpose
A. Temporary signs serve an important economic function and contribute to the
success of the City's businesses. However, the City also desires to limit the number of
temporary signs and control the placement and size of such signage in order to minimize
visual clutter.
19.24.020 Application Requirements
A. All applications to install a temporary sign or other visual communication device shall be subject
to the application requirements found at TMC 18.104.
19.24.030 Temporary Signs in Residential Zones
A. In addition to the signage permitted under TMC 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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 29 of 43
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 TMC 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 Additional Temporary Signage
A. Each business operating within the City shall be permitted one additional
temporary sign permit every 24 months. That permit allows:
1. The type and size of temporary signs permitted under TMC 19.24.040 and
19.24.050.
2. Any of the sign types otherwise prohibited under TMC 19.12.040.6,
"Prohibited Signs and Devices."
3. These signs may remain in place for up to 30 days.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 30 of 43
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.
B. The City may approve the use of portable signs 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.
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 Violations
A. Any violation of this chapter, or failure to comply with any of the requirements
of this chapter, shall be subject to enforcement and penalties as prescribed in TMC 8.45
and the issuance of a Notice of Violation in accordance with TMC 8.45.070.
CHAPTER 19.32
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 31 of 43
MASTER SIGN PROGRAM
Sections:
19.32.010 Intent of Master Sign Program
19.32.020 Eligibility
19.32.030 Process
19.32.040 Criteria
19.32.050 Application Requirements
19.32.060 Allowable Modifications Under a Master Sign Program
19.32.070 Existing Signs Not Conforming to a Master Sign Program
19.32.075 Copy and Refaces of Monument and Grand Monument Signs
19.32.080 Regional Gateway Sign
19.32.090 Binding Effect
19.32.010 Intent of Master Sign Program
A. The Master Sign Program is intended to provide a voluntary process to allow
for adaptation of the standard provisions of the Sign Code to the specific needs of larger
sites. The signs approved through this process must be integrated into a cohesive design
and communication approach for the site, while continuing to meet the overall intent of
the Sign Code listed in TMC 19.04.020. Signs permitted under this chapter may only list
on -premise businesses, products and uses.
19.32.020 Eligibility
A. 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
A. Master Sign Programs are Type 1 Permit decisions in accordance with TMC
18.104. Approval of a Master Sign Program does not waive the permit requirements for
individual signs.
19.32.040 Criteria
A. 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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 32 of 43
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 Application Requirements
A. Applications for Master Sign Programs shall be subject to the application
requirements found at TMC 18.104.060.
19.32.060 Allowable Modifications Under a Master Sign Program
A. Modifications to the following standards may be allowed under an 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 TMC
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.
5. In no more than one location on a premise, the allowable sign area for an
exposed building face may be split between two flush -mounted building signs located on
the same exposed building face so long as there is a minimum vertical separation of 20
feet between the two flush -mounted building signs.
6. 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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 33 of 43
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.
7. 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 TMC 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 sign message area may be increased up to 500 square feet per side, 1000
square 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 may exceed
the tallest building but shall not exceed 115 feet.
g. No more than two grand monument signs are allowed per premises.
8. 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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 34 of 43
19.32.070 Existing Signs Not Conforming to a Master Sign Program
A. 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 TMC 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.
19.32.075 Copy and Refaces of Monument and Grand Monument Signs
Approved under this Chapter
A. A monument sign or grand monument sign permitted under this TMC is
permitted to complete refaces and copy changes without having to obtain a new permit,
provided ALL of the following criteria are met:
1. The monument sign or grand monument sign was authorized by the City
under a permit issued on or after August 24, 2010.
2. The property owner, or authorized agent of the property owner, was the
applicant to secure the permit as required by TMC 19.32.075 (1).
3. The reface or copy change does not include any structural changes to the
sign that result in a change of sign or message area, modification in sign height, inclusion
of a dynamic sign component, or change in the monument or grand monument sign's
location.
19.32.080 Regional Gateway Sign
A. 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
A. 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.
CHAPTER 19.36
NON -CONFORMING PROVISIONS
Sections:
19.36.010 Purpose
19.36.020 Definition and Removal of Legally Non -Conforming Permanent Signs
19.36.030 Existing Freeway Interchange Signs
19.36.040 Additional Signage Prohibited
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 35 of 43
19.32.050 Financial Incentives — Tukwila International Boulevard Corridor
19.36.010 Purpose
A. 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 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. 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 change to the structure or sign panel/face/copy or any
relocation, re -erection, alteration, replacement or change in any way to a sign is
proposed.
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.
19.36.030Existing Freeway Interchange Signs
A. Relocation, re -erection, alteration, replacement or change in any way to the
structure or sign panel/face/copy of any existing sign classified as a freeway interchange
signs under the previous sign code is prohibited and will result in a loss of non -conforming
status. Ordinary maintenance and repair of a sign shall be permitted without loss of non -
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 36 of 43
conforming 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.
19.36.040Additional Signage Prohibited
A. No additional permanent building -mounted signage is permitted on a tenant
space that contains a non -conforming building -mounted sign. No additional permanent
free-standing signs are permitted on a premises that contains a non -conforming
freestanding sign other than a sign that was classified as "freeway interchange" under the
previous Sign Code.
19.36.050Financial Incentives — Tukwila International Boulevard Corridor
A. 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 TMC 19.36.030 shall have
a higher priority than removal of non -conforming signs listed in TMC 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.
CHAPTER 19.37
NON -CONFORMING SIGNS IN
ANNEXATION AREAS
Sections:
19.37.010 Purpose
19.37.020 Definition and Removal of Legally Non -Conforming Permanent Signs
19.37.030 Non -Conforming Sign Permits
19.37.040 Non -Conforming Temporary Signs
19.37.050 Additional Signage Prohibited
19.37.010 Purpose
A. The purpose of this chapter is to establish limits on the use of and requirements
for the removal of non -conforming signs within areas of the City that were annexed after
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 37 of 43
May 1, 2012. Subject to the remaining restrictions of this chapter, non -conforming signs
that were otherwise lawful on the effective date of the annexation may remain subject to
the limitations under this chapter. The provisions of this chapter do not apply to billboards
within annexation areas.
19.37.020 Definition and Removal of Legally Non -Conforming Permanent Signs
A. All permanent signs within annexation areas are 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
King County ordinances or regulations of the State of Washington. The burden of
establishing that a sign is non -conforming lies solely with the individual asserting the claim
that a sign is non -conforming.
B. Any monument sign installed within an annexation area 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 in Annexation Areas: Signs that were
installed within the annexation area prior to the effective date of the City's annexation and
became non -conforming upon annexation in the City, may be issued a non -conforming
sign permit that will allow the signs to remain for 10 years from the effective date of the
annexation. This 10-year period shall be known as the "annexation grace period."
D. Sign Modifications During the Annexation Grace Period: During the
annexation grace period, signs with non -conforming sign permits 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 Annexation Grace Period: After the annexation
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 the sign code in effect at the time of submittal of a complete sign permit
application.
19.37.030 Non -Conforming Sign Permits
A. Non -Conforming Sign Inventory: The Director shall, as soon as practicable
after the effective date of the annexation, survey the annexation area for signs that do not
conform to the requirements of Title 19. Upon determination that a sign is non -conforming
or illegal, the Director shall use reasonable efforts to notify the sign owner, in writing 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.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 38 of 43
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. 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 Type 1 Sign Permit is required for all eligible non-
conforming signs within the annexation areas. The sign owner shall obtain the permit
within 180 days of notification by the City. Sign permits shall be obtained for any panel or
copy change allowed during the annexation grace period. There is no permit fee for the
issuance of the non -conforming sign permit.
3. Applications: Applications for a non -conforming sign permit shall be
subject to the application requirements found at TMC 18.104.
4. Failure to Respond: It is the sign owner and/or property owner's
responsibility to return the non -conforming sign permit to the City within the 180 days of
notice as outlined in this section. Failure to respond will constitute a waiver of any grace
period provided to the sign under this chapter and modifications to the sign will be
controlled by TMC 19.36.030.
5. Permit Issuance: The Director shall issue non -conforming sign permits
upon a determination of eligibility.
C. Loss of Legal Non -conforming Status: Non -conforming signs shall be
brought into compliance with this chapter upon the occurrence of one or more of the
following events:
1. When an application is submitted to the City for a project that is subject to
design review, 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.
2. When any panel or copy changes are proposed after the expiration of the
annexation grace period.
3. When the sign meets the definition of abandoned.
4. 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 non -conforming 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.
19.37.040 Non -Conforming Temporary Signs
A. Non -conforming temporary signs in annexation areas must be removed within
120 days of the effective date of the annexation.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 39 of 43
B. Commercial real estate signs in existence in the annexation area 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.
19.37.050 Additional Signage Prohibited
A. 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.
CHAPTER 19.38
BILLBOARDS
Sections:
19.38.010 Purpose
19.38.020 Billboard Receiving Areas Established
19.38.030 Billboard Sending Areas Established
19.38.040 New Billboards
19.38.050 Refurbishing Existing Billboards
19.38.060 Application Materials for Billboards within the City
19.38.010 Purpose
A. 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
A. New billboards shall only be permitted in designated receiving areas.
19.38.030 Billboard Sending Areas Established
A. 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
A. 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 a designated sending
area in order to install a billboard within designated receiving areas. Removal of all billboards included in
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 40 of 43
an application for a new billboard must be completed before construction can commence on the proposed
billboard in the application.
Table 1
Type of Sign Proposed in
Designated Receiving Area
Number of Billboards That Must Be
Removed Within Designated Sending
Areas
I—
One Static Billboard Face
Five billboard faces
One Digital Billboard Face
Seven billboard faces
3. 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.
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 10 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 that 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 2.
Table 2
Billboard Style
Dimensions
Measurement
Distance
Posters
12 x 24 feet
150 feet
Bulletins
14 x 48 feet
250 feet
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
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 41 of 43
or billboard identification numbers are permitted and shall not exceed an area of three
square feet.
4. Billboard Placement, Street Tree Pruning:
Upon application to place a billboard within a designated 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:
a. 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.
b. All pruning is done by the applicant and all cost is borne entirely by
the applicant.
c. All pruning activities are supervised by a certified arborist and all
pruning complies with ANSI A300 as currently written or as may be amended.
d. Only those street trees on or adjacent to the property where the
billboard is located are eligible for pruning.
e. In the event of death of the tree(s) as a result of the pruning activities,
the applicant shall be responsible for paying the landscape value of the tree(s) as
determined by a certified arborist or landscape architect.
19.38.050 Refurbishing Existing Billboards
A. 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 within a residential zone.
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
19.38.040.H.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 42 of 43
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.
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
A. All applications to install a billboard shall be subject to the application
requirements found at TMC 18.104.
Exhibit B: Title 19 Repeal and Reenact
Version: 10/17/24
Page 43 of 43
For Illustrative Purposes Only
FIGURE 19-1
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For Illustrative Purposes Only
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