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1997 - Downtown Renton Sign Moratorium
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U -3 U) -0 O as I-- -1 CO �s►i••......M.s`Q•��� /111111111111 Amends Ord: 2504, 2877, 3543, 3719 . ,,r,,, 3858, 4172, 4401, 4464 'Not 4629 CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON ORDINANCE NO. 4720 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON, AMENDING CHAPTER 20, SIGN CODE, AND DELETING SUBSECTION 4-31-14.A.1 OF CHAPTER 31, ZONING CODE, OF TITLE IV (BUILDING REGULATIONS), OF ORDINANCE NO. 4260 ENTITLED "CODE OF GENERAL ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON" RELATING TO REGULATION OF SIGNS IN THE CITY CENTER AREA AS DEFINED HEREIN, ADDING AND AMENDING DEFINITIONS, AND MAKING MINOR AMENDMENTS TO THE SIGN CODE. THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON, DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: SECTION I. Section 4-20-1.B of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended to read as follows: B. Purpose, Scope and Exemptions from Sign Code Regulations: 1. Purpose. It is the purpose of this Code to provide a means of regulating signs so as to promote the health, safety, morals, general welfare, social and economic welfare and esthetics of the City. Signs are erected to provide information for the benefit and convenience of pedestrians and motorists and should not detract from the quality of urban environment by being competitive or garish. Signs should complement and characterize the environment which they serve to give their respective areas a unique and pleasing quality. The regulations of this Code are not intended to permit any violations of any other lawful ordinance. 2. Scope. The purposes of this Chapter are implemented through the establishment of standards for the type, placement, scale, and construction of signs which varies by use, zoning district, or City Center sign district. 3. Exemption from Sign Code Regulations. This Code does not apply to any signs or sign structures located within a building. SECTION II. Section 4-20-2 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, ORDINANCE NO. 4720 4 Washington" is hereby amended by changing the title to this section and adding the following definitions: 4-20-2: DEFINITIONS, ABBREVIATIONS AND MEASUREMENTS: AWNING: A shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a building. Awnings have noncombustible frames, but may have combustible coverings. Awnings may be fixed, retractable, folding or collapsible. Any structure which extends above any adjacent parapet or roof of supporting building is not included within the definition of awning. BUILDING COMPLEX, MULTIPLE: A group of structures housing more than one type of retail business, office or commercial venture and generally under one ownership and control. BUILDING, MULTI-OCCUPANCY: A single structure housing more than one type of retail business, office or commercial venture and generally under one ownership and control. BUILDING, SINGLE OCCUPANCY: A building or structure with one major enterprise, generally under one ownership. A building is considered to be"single occupancy" if: A. It has only one occupant; and B. It has no wall in common with another building; and C. It has no part of its roof in common with another building. BUSINESS FACADE: That portion of an exterior building wall owned or leased by a business. CANOPY, BUILDING: A rigid multi-sided structure covered with fabric, metal or other material and supported by a building at one or more points or extremities and by columns or posts embedded in the ground at other points or extremities. Any structure which extends above any adjacent parapet or roof of supporting building is not included within the definition of building canopy. CANOPY,FREESTANDING. A rigid multi-sided structure covered with fabric, metal or other material and supported by columns or posts embedded in the ground. COPY. The graphic content of a sign surface in either permanent or removable letter, pictographic, symbolic, or alphabetic form. ILLUMINATION, EXTERNAL: An artificial light source located outside of the sign and directed towards the sign for purposes of illumination. ILLUMINATION, INTERNAL: A light source that is concealed or contained within the sign and becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface. ILLUMINATION, TUBE: A light source supplied by a tube which is bent to form letters, symbols, or other shapes. Tube illumination does not include exposed fluorescent lights. MEASUREMENT: Whenever the term measurement is used in this chapter it shall mean: 2 immin 40, ORDINANCE NO. 4720 A. Height:Measured as the distance from grade, unless otherwise designated, to the top of the sign or sign structure. B. Sign Area: A measurement of the total area of a sign visible from any one viewpoint or direction, excluding the sign support structure, architectural embellishments, or framework which contains no written copy, or which does not form part of the sign proper or of the display. Freestanding letters or characters, where no background is specially provided, shall be measured by determining the smallest rectangle or polygon which encloses the extreme limits of the shapes to be used. SIGN, TRADITIONAL MARQUEE: A sign typically associated with movie theaters, performing arts theaters, and theatrical playhouses. The sign is attached flat against and parallel . to the surface of a marquee structure. In addition, a changeable copy area is included where characters, letters, or illustrations can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign. SECTION III. Section 4-20-2 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, • Washington" is hereby amended by changing the following definitions to read as follows: GROUND SIGN will now read: SIGN, GROUND: A type of freestanding sign, other than a freestanding pole sign, in which the sign is in contact with or close to the ground, has a solid base anchor, and is independent of any other structure. PROJECTING SIGN shall now read: SIGN, PROJECTING: A sign other than a wall sign which projects from and is supported by a wall of a building or structure, and does not extend above any adjacent parapet or roof of the supporting building. SIGN: Any medium, including merchandise, its structure and component parts, which is used or intended to be used to attract attention to the subject matter for advertising purposes. Signs do not include sculptures, wall paintings, murals, collages, and other design features determined to be public art by the City. UNDER MARQUEE SIGN shall now read: SIGN, UNDER MARQUEE: A lighted or unlighted display attached to the underside of a marquee protruding over public or private sidewalks. Under marquee signs may also be called "under awning" or"under canopy" signs. SECTION IV. Section 4-20-2 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended by deleting the following definition: HEIGHT: The distance measured from grade, unless otherwise designated, to the top of the sign or sign structure. 3 11110 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 4410 SECTION V. Subsections 4-20-3.A.2 and C.2 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" are hereby amended to read as follows: A.2. Liability Insurance/Annual Permit: a. Liability Insurance. Excluding wall signs projecting twelve (12) inches or less over a public right-of-way, the owner of any sign projecting over a public right- of-way shall file with the Building Official a public liability insurance policy issued by an insurance company authorized to do business in the State of Washington, appropriately conditioned in conformity with the objectives of this Section, with limits of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000.00) - three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000.00) public liability coverage and fifty thousand dollars ($50,000.00) property damage coverage. The City shall be named as an additional insured, and notified of lapses or changes to the insurance policy. b. Annual Permit. An annual sign permit shall be required for any signs projecting over the right-of-way, excluding wall signs projecting twelve (12) inches or less. Annual fees shall be consistent with 4-20-3.D. The annual permit shall be issued upon a determination that liability insurance remains in effect, and that the sign and supporting structure are secure. C.2. Painting, cleaning, change of sign face. a. Outside of City Center. Painting, repainting or cleaning of an advertising structure or the changing of the advertising copy or message thereon shall not be considered an erection or alteration which requires sign permit unless a structural or electrical change is made. b. Inside City .Center Sign Regulation Boundaries. Painting, repainting or cleaning of an advertising structure shall not be considered an erection or alteration which requires sign permit unless a structural or electrical change is made. A change of sign face shall be subject to permit requirements. SECTION VI. Subsections 4-20-3.0 and 3.D of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" are hereby amended by adding the following subsections which read as follows: 3.C.18.Awning, canopy, and marquee structures having no signage. 1 I 4 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 3.D.9. For City Center sign modifications per Section 4-20-12.H.4, the application fee shall be one hundred dollars($100). SECTION VII. Subsection 4-20-4.B.3 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended to read as follows: 3. Restrictions on Combustible Materials: Freestanding and wall signs may be constructed of any material meeting the requirements of this Code. Combination signs, roof signs and signs on marquees shall be constructed of incombustible materials, except as provided in paragraph 4 below. Projecting signs and under awning, under canopy, or under marquee signs may be constructed of any material meeting the requirements of this Code, including fire resistive treated wood. No combustible materials other than approved plastics shall be used in the construction of electric signs. SECTION VIII. Section 4-20-4 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended by adding the following subsection which reads as follows: D. Obstruction of Official Sign, Signal or Device. No sign or sign structure shall be erected in such a manner as to confine or obstruct the view or interpretation of any official traffic sign, signal or device. SECTION IX. Section 4-20-5 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended to read as follows: 4-20-5 SIGNS PROJECTING INTO SETBACKS AND RIGHTS-OF-WAY: A. Signs projecting into setbacks or rights-of-way shall be designed in accordance with the requirements specified in Section 4-20-4. B. Projection and Clearance: 1. Projection into setbacks. - a. Signs may project within a legal setback a maximum of six feet (6'). b. Ground signs which are six (6) feet or less in height may be installed within the front yard setback in the landscape strip; ( 5 l ORDINANCE NO. 4720 NOV provided, that the area described in Section 4-20-8.A.6 is kept clear. 2. Projection into Rights-of-Way. a. Where a legally constructed awning, canopy, or marquee exists which in itself complies with the provisions of the Renton Building Code, an "under marquee" sign, no larger than twelve inches (12") high by seventy two inches (72") long by twelve inches (12") thick, may be suspended below the awning, canopy, or marquee, provided the bottom of the sign is at least eight feet (8') above the surface of the public or private sidewalk or walkway and the sign does not extend beyond the awning, canopy, or marquee. b. In the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries defined in Section 4- 20-12.H, under marquee signs may not exceed a maximum square footage of six (6) square feet, with a maximum sign thickness of twelve inches (12"). The bottom of the sign shall be at least eight feet (8') above the surface of the public or private sidewalk or walkway, and the sign shall not extend beyond the awning, canopy, or marquee. c. Under marquee signs shall be limited to one such sign per entrance for each business establishment. Under marquee signs may also be called"under awning" or"under canopy" signs. 3. All signs erected above or below a marquee which do not meet the requirements of Section 4-20-6.A shall comply with the requirements of this Section. 4. Signs and supporting sign structures may project within the public right-of- way as follows: a. Wall Sign. The thickness of that portion of a wall sign which projects over public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve inches (12"). b. Marquees and the attached or associated signs may extend over the right-of-way according to the terms of the adopted Uniform Building Code. c. City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries. In the City Center as defined in Section 4-20-12.H, the following signs may project into the public right-of-way: (1) Wall Sign. The thickness of that portion of a wall sign which projects over public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve inches (12"). (2) Projecting Sign. A projecting sign may extend over the public right-of-way no more than four(4) feet from the wall 6 `""' ORDINANCE NO. 4 7 2 0 Nisie it is mounted on. No sign shall extend into the public right- of-way to within less than two (2) feet of the curbline. (3) Awnings, Building Canopies and Marquees. Awnings, building canopies, and marquees and the attached or associated signs may extend over the right-of-way according to the terms of the adopted Uniform Building Code. SECTION X. Section 4-20-5 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended by adding the following subsection which reads as follows: C. Name and Date of Sign Erector. All projecting signs, and signs which project into public rights-of-way, shall have affixed thereon the name of the sign erector and the date of the erection. SECTION XI. Section 4-20-6 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended by changing the title and by adding a new subsection which reads as follows: 4-20-6: AWNINGS, CANOPIES, AND MARQUEES: B. Signs may be painted, printed, or affixed upon awnings or canopies. Awnings and canopies shall meet the applicable provisions of the adopted edition of the Uniform Building Code. SECTION XII. Section 4-20-7 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended by changing the title to read as follows: 4-20-7: ELECTRIC SIGNS AND ILLUMINATION: 7 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 '41110 SECTION XIII. Section 4-20-7 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended by adding the following subsection which reads as follows: C. Unless specifically restricted, signs may be internally or externally illuminated, or have tube illumination. SECTION XIV. Sections 4-20-8 and 4-20-8.A of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" are hereby amended by changing the titles to read as follows: 4-20-8: PROHIBITED SIGNS AND DEVICES, UNAUTHORIZED SIGNS, AND NON-CONFORMING SIGNS: 4-20-8.A: Prohibited Signs. The following signs or devices are specifically prohibited:. SECTION XV. Sections 4-20-8.A.3, A.8, and C of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" are hereby amended to read as follows: A.3. Animated, revolving, blinking and flashing signs as follows: a. All of the following signs within seventy five feet (75') of the public right- of-way with any of the following features: animated, revolving more than eight (8) revolutions per minute, blinking and flashing. Exceptions are public service signs, such as those which give the time, temperature and/or humidity. b. In the City Center, all of the following signs with any of the following features: animated, revolving, blinking and flashing. Exceptions are public service signs, such as those which give the time, temperature and/or humidity, and barber poles. A.8. Signs over public right-of-way other than signs specified in Section 4-20-5.B, signs per Section 4-20-9.B, City-sponsored signs and public service signs per Section 4- 20-3.C.14, 15, and 16. C. Closure Of Business: 1. City-wide Outside of City Center. Upon the closure and vacation of a business or activity, the owner of said business or activity shall have ninety (90) days 8 `I.* ORDINANCE NO. 4720 nevi from the date of closure to remove all signs relating to said business and activity. If the owner of said business or activity fails to remove said signs within the designated time period, then the owner of the property upon which said signs are located shall remove said signs within one hundred twenty (120) days of said closure and vacation of premises. 2. City Center Sign Regulation Area. Upon the effective date of this Section (June 8, 1998), the following regulations shall govern sign removal in the City Center Sign Regulation Area upon closure of business: a. Upon the closure and vacation of a business or activity, the owner of said business or activity shall immediately remove all signs relating to said business and activity. If the owner of said business or activity fails to remove said signs, then the owner of the property upon which said signs are located shall remove said signs within thirty (30) days of said closure and vacation of premises. If the owner of the property fails to remove the signs within the designated time limit, then the Building Official or designee, may upon due notice, enforce civil penalty regulations per RMC Chapter 4-33. Prior to the end of the thirty (30) day time period or time period established upon notice by the City pursuant to enforcement of civil penalty regulations, a new tenant or the property owner may request utilization of existing signs or sign structures as regulated in subsections b through d below. b. Conforming signs and sign structures may be utilized by a new tenant or owner. The tenant or owner shall submit a sign permit application to confirm the conformity of the signs and sign structures. Permit fees are not required when the reviewing official determines that no change to the conforming sign will be made. Where there will be alterations or new sign faces of the existing conforming signs or sign structures, sign permit fees shall apply. c. Nonconforming signs and sign structures shall not be utilized by a new tenant or owner unless one or more of the following conditions is present: (1) The sign is considered to be of historic value, and has been designated as such by the Renton City Council through adoption of a resolution or ordinance;or, (2) Replacement of sign faces may be allowed if there is a change in the corporate name of the business due to merger, acquisition or new management, but no change in use or activity, and the property was not vacated in the transition. Such signs shall be subject to applicable sign permit and fee requirements; or, 9 leo /1110 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 (3) A variance or modification was granted to the previous tenant or owner, and the conditions warranting the variance or modification are still present. The approval or denial shall be documented by administrative determination. If the reviewing official indicates that conditions do not appear to warrant continuation of the previous variance or modification, the applicant may submit a new variance or modification application; or, (4) The applicant proposes to alter the nonconforming sign in order to make it fully conforming. Alteration of the sign shall be subject to applicable sign permit and fee requirements; or, (5) Application is made for a sign modification or variance as appropriate. d. If the provisions of subsection 2c above are not met, then the nonconforming sign or sign structure shall be removed immediately. SECTION XVI. Section 4-20-8.A of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended by adding the following subsections which read as follows: 11. Roof signs within the City Center as defined by Section 4-20-12.H.1 shall be prohibited. 12. Awnings, building canopies, projecting signs and wall signs which extend above the adjacent parapet or roof of the supporting building are prohibited. SECTION XVII. Section 4-20-8 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended by adding the following subsection which reads as follows: D. Non-Conforming Signs. Any non-conforming signage which was erected prior to the enactment of the Sign Code (September 9, 1974), or which was erected legally in accordance with the provisions of the sign ordinance in effect at the time of erection, or which has a valid building permit from the City may remain in use by the existing business, or by approval pursuant to Renton Municipal Code section 4-20-8.C.2.c, subject to the following: 1. The changing of advertising copy or message thereon is permitted provided no structural or electrical alteration is made. A sign permit shall be obtained by the existing business, unless exempt from permit requirements pursuant to Renton Municipal Code section 4-20-3.C.2.a. Other proposed alterations are subject to subsections 2 through 4 below. 10 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 2. The sign shall be kept in a safe condition. Nothing in this Chapter shall prevent the strengthening or restoring to a safe condition of any portion of a sign declared unsafe by a proper authority. Legal non-conforming signage is subject to all requirements of this Code regarding safety, maintenance, and repair. 3. Excluding the cost of changing advertising copy/messages per subsection 1 above, the cost of alterations of a legal nonconforming sign shall not exceed an aggregate cost of fifty percent (50%) of the value of the sign, based upon its replacement value, unless the amount over fifty percent (50%) is used to make the sign more conforming. Alterations shall not result in or increase any nonconforming condition. 4. The reconstruction, repairing, rebuilding and continued use of a nonconforming sign damaged by fire, explosion, or act of God, subsequent to June 8, 1998 may be allowed as follows: the work shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of its replacement value of the sign at the time such damage occurred; otherwise, any restoration or reconstruction shall conform to the regulations and standards specified in this Chapter. SECTION XVIII. Subsections 4-20-12.A, B.1, B.2, C.1, C.2 and C.3 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" are hereby amended to read as follows: A. General: 1. Location. All signs are further limited and restricted as to location in the land use zones as such land use zones are defined and established by Chapter 31, "Zoning Code", Title IV (Building Regulations), Code of General Ordinances of the City, as amended, or any other ordinance pertaining to or regulating zoning. The Zoning Code may contain further sign restrictions. Only those signs specifically designated are permitted; all others are prohibited. 2. Height Limitations for Signage Outside the City Center Sign Regulation Area. The height limitation for freestanding, ground, projecting and combination signs shall be the maximum height of the zone or forty feet (40'), whichever is less. Roof signs may extend twenty feet (20') above the parapet wall. This Section shall not apply to those signs covered by Section 4-20-12.C.8, Oversized Signs for Large Retail Uses, or Section 4- 20-12.H, City Center Sign Regulations. B. Regulations for Residential Zones, and Residential, Church and School Occupancies in Mixed-Use Zones: In all residential zones, and for residential occupancies, churches or schools in mixed use zones, the following shall apply: 11 41110 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 1. Home Occupation: Only one home occupation sign, not illuminated, not exceeding two (2) square feet in area, attached to the wall of the building with the face of the sign in a plane parallel to the plane of the wall is permitted. 2. Churches, schools, apartment buildings, etc: Churches, schools, apartment buildings, subdivision developments and similar occupancies located in residential and mixed use zones may have two (2) on-premises identifying signs of not over thirty two (32) square feet in area on one face. The signs may be illuminated but not animated, shall be for location identification only and shall display no copy, symbol or device other than that in keeping with the development. Freestanding signs shall be not higher than six feet (6') above any established grade and shall be no closer than ten feet (10') to • any street right-of-way or five feet (5') to any side property line. However, public facilities in residential zones may have one freestanding sign with a maximum height of twenty five feet (25'). C. Commercial and Industrial Zones: Except in the City Center, Sign Regulation Area, the following shall apply in all commercial and industrial zones: 1. Under Marquee Signs: Under marquee signs shall be limited to one such sign per entrance for each business establishment. 2. Business Signs: Each individual business establishment may have only one sign for each street frontage of any one of the following types: Freestanding, roof, ground, projecting or combination. Each sign shall not exceed an area greater than one and one-half(11/2) square feet for each lineal foot of property frontage which the business occupies up to a maximum of three hundred (300) square feet; or if such sign is multi-faced, the maximum allowance shall not be more than three hundred (300) square feet. However, a maximum of one-half(1/2) of the allowed square footage is allowed on each face. Businesses with less than twenty five (25) lineal front feet-may have a sign of a maximum of twenty (20) square feet per face. 3. Wall Signs: In addition to the signs in Section Cl, Under Marquee Signs, C2, Business Signs, C6, Motor Vehicle Dealership Over One Acre of Contiguous Ownership or Control, C8, Oversized Signs for Large Retail Uses, and C9, Shopping Centers, wall signs are permitted with a total copy area not exceeding twenty percent (20%) of the building facade to which it is applied. SECTION XIX. Section 4-20-12.0 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended by adding the following subsection which reads as follows: 12 `"' ORDINANCE NO. 4720 '4✓ 11. Commercial and/or industrial subdivisions may have two (2) on-premises identifying signs not over seventy five (75) square feet on one face. These signs must be no higher than six feet (6'), or no closer to the street right-of-way than ten feet (10') or five feet (5') to any side property line. SECTION XX. Subsections 4-20-12.D and E of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" are hereby deleted. SECTION XX1. Subsections 4-20-12.F and G of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" will now be renumbered as sections 12-20-12.D and E. SECTION XXII. Section 4-20-12 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby amended by adding a new subsection which reads as follows: 4-20-12.F: City Center Sign Regulations 1. Applicability and Purpose. a. Applicability. The sign standards of this subsection shall apply to the property contained within the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries as shown in Figure 1, generally described as including: land which is zoned Center Downtown, excluding lots located on Logan Avenue South, north of the intersection at Airport Way; land zoned Commercial Arterial which lies east of Lake Avenue South, and between Tobin Street South and South Second Street; and land zoned Commercial Arterial which lies between South Second Street and South Third Place, and east of Rainier Avenue South, excluding parcels which have frontage on Rainier Avenue South and lie more than one hundred and sixty (160) feet north of South Third Street; and land zoned Multi Family - Urban which lies between the Cedar River and South Second Street, and between Houser Way South and South Fifth Street. FIGURE 1: CITY CENTER SIGN REGULATION BOUNDARIES 13 ORDINANCE NO. 10110 4720 I Airport Wa 6- I I iia. 35 G I Illl 11 l I ii:\ . . ... ,1'iH - - — ► lEE _ I • III NNW ihvti, j M miill l , am ,� 4� / Fill -1111- is r. a -N._ 72....\or 4,0,,,`,..,_- � v Of NM MS A' 0 S 2nd St - a © or dat,` !rie, X \FILM IIME Ilia Dila74 �'P g =C —1 4"."'" �iIydj11� ® I I 1 1 CTo =m L `!1�.g ad sir add . \Vj��, h ='' EI EP J '1 ' S .6= a a II 1* MN NM= iiik \_______ laair no EN= P\ ii = _ MN AI�A7 �:�"•' :., =ice ' �ma �� c,c-_-_A ,-- _._ b. Purpose. The purpose of the City Center Sign Regulations is to provide sign standards and regulations which recognize and strengthen the unique character of the City Center area businesses and streets, provide for appropriate signage which contributes to the economic vitality of the area and which complements its environment, and to enhance the pedestrian orientation of the district. 2. Type and Number of Signs Allowed -Non Residential Uses. a. Non-residential uses (excluding residential occupancies, churches, and schools) in the City Center Sign Regulation Area shall be subject to the sign standards and regulations contained in Sections 4-20-12.H.2 through 4-20-12.H.5. Residential occupancies, churches and schools in the City Center are subject to the requirements of 4-20-12.B. b. Permanent Signs. TYPE AND NUMBER OF PERMANENT SIGNS NON-RESIDENTIAL USES SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN CATEGORY A Freestanding OR Ground OR Wall Select only one of the following sign types: Number One(1)free- One(1)ground sign Each individual standing sign per per street frontage ground-level street frontage for — for each single -___ business ma./have 14 'Noe ORDINANCE NO. 4720 v.r' SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN each single occupancy building, one(1)wall sign for occupancy building multi-occupancy each business facade located on a corner building, or fronting on a public lot,multi- multiple building street. occupancy building, complex. The In addition, in or multiple building maximum number multiple building complex. The of signs is two(2). complexes, or for maximum number multi-occupancy of signs is two(2). buildings each ground-level tenant with an exterior business facade may have one(1)wall sign to identify individual tenant spaces. Mix of options An applicant for a business having more than one street frontage may substitute an allowed Category A sign type for another Category A sign type;however,the maximum number of signs shall not be exceeded. For example.on a corner lot, an applicant may request one ground sign facing one street frontage,and one freestandin s'gn facin&the other street fronta,ge. Multi-occupancy Multi-occupancy buildings or multiple building complexes with fifty thousand buildings or multiple (50,000)square feet of gross leasable floor area or greater,and with frontage on building complexes- Rainier Avenue S., may choose to comply with the above Category A regulations, or greater than 50,000 comply with the freestanding, ground,and wall sign allowances of 4-20-12.C.9.a square feet with and 4-20-12.C.3. frontage on Rainier Ave. S. CATEGORY B Projecting Sign OR Awning Sign,or Select only one of the Canopy Sign,or following sign types. Marquee Sign,or Allowed in addition Traditional to signs of Category Marquee Sign _ A. Number Each individual Each individual ground-level ground-level business may have business may have one(1)sign for one(1)sign for each business each business facade fronting on a facade fronting on a public street. public street. In addition, in In addition, in multiple building multiple building complexes, or for complexes,or for multi-occupancy multi-occupancy buildings each buildings each ground-level tenant ground-level tenant with an exterior with an exterior business facade may business facade may have one(1)sign to have one(1)sign to identify individual identify individual • 15 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN tenant spaces. tenant spaces. A series of awnings or canopies upon a single business and located on a single street frontage are considered as one awning or canopy. CATEGORY C Under Awning/ AND Secondary Wall, AND If applicable, Allowed in addition Under Canopy/ Projecting,or Multi-Occupancy to signs of Categories Under Marquee Awning Sign, Building,or A and B: having no internal Multiple Building illumination Complex Wall Sign_ Number One(1)per ground- One(1)sign, One(1)per building level business per having no internal facade which does public entrance. illumination,per not contain any business facade other Category A, or which does not B sign. contain a Category A or B sign; maximum of two (2)secondary signs. c. Temporary/Special Permit Signs. In addition to the permanent signs described in Subsection H.2.b above, the following signs are allowed. (1) Temporary Signs per Section 4-20-9 of this Chapter. (2) Special Permit Signs per Section 4-20-10 of this Chapter. 3. Sign Dimensions/Additional Limitations: 16 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 `""I'l SIGN DIMENSIONS AND ADDITIONAL LIMITATIONS PERMANENT SIGNS MAXIMUM SIGN MAXIMUM LOCATION AND REQUIRED SIGN TYPE AREA HEIGHT OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4.0 & Section 4-20-5) a. FREE- (1) General. Each (4) Twenty(20) (5) Setbacks shall (7) Minimum STANDING sign shall not feet, measured be consistent fifteen(15)foot exceed an area to the top of the with the clearance above greater than sign or sign Zoning Code. traffic aisles one and one- structure, (6) Property with and driveways. half(1-1/2) whichever is frontage on square feet for higher. Rainier Avenue each lineal foot S. The of street freestanding frontage which sign shall be the building or located along complex Rainier Avenue occupies up to a S. and setback maximum of a minimum twenty-five (25) distance of one square feet per hundred(100) face; the lineal feet from maximum the right-of- cumulative way of S.Third square footage Street. This of all faces of a setback shall sign is fifty not apply to (50)square multi- feet. occupancy (2) Property with buildings or frontage on multiple Rainier Avenue building S. In lieu of the complexes with sign area fifty thousand requirements of (50,000)square subsection(1), feet or greater each sign shall having frontage not exceed an on Rainier area greater Avenue S. FREESTANDING than one and (cont.) one-half(1-1/2) square feet for each lineal foot of street frontage which the building or complex occupies up to a maximum of seventy five — I (75)square feet 17 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 MAXIMUM SIGN MAXIMUM LOCATION AND REQUIRED SIGN TYPE AREA HEIGHT OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4.0 & Section 4-20-5) per face;the maximum cumulative square footage of all faces of a sign is fifty (150)square feet;provided, that the sign is located in • accordance with subsection (6). (3) Multi- occupancy buildings or multiple building complexes with greater than 50,000 square feet gross leasable floor area,having frontage on Rainier Avenue S. Such uses may comply with the standards of subsections(1) or(2)above,or with the sign area standards of Section 4- 20-12.C.9.a. Freestanding FREESTANDING sign area may (cont.) be transferred from within the City Center Sign Regu- lation Bound- aries to contig- uously owned property outside of the City Center 18 Now. ORDINANCE NO. 4720 MAXIMUM SIGN MAXIMUM LOCATION AND REQUIRED SIGN TYPE AREA HEIGHT OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4.0& Section 4-20-5) Sign Regu- lation Bound- aries. Only sign area may be transferred, not the number of allowed signs. Where transferred, the maximum size of the free- standing sign shall not exceed the limits of Section 4-20- 12.C.9.a. b. GROUND (1) General. Each (4) Five(5)feet if (5) Setbacks shall sign shall not perpendicular be consistent exceed an area to the right-of- with the greater than way;four(4) Zoning Code. one and one- feet if the sign and Section 4- half(1-1/2) is not placed 20-5.B.1.b. square feet for perpendicular (6) Property with each lineal foot to the right-of- street frontage of street way. Height is on Rainier frontage which measured to the Avenue S. The the building or top of the sign ground sign complex or sign shall be located occupies up to a structure, along Rainier maximum of whichever is Avenue S.and twenty five(25) higher. setback a square feet per minimum face;the distance of one maximum hundred(100) GROUND(cont.) cumulative lineal feet from square footage the right-of- of all faces of a way of S.Third sign is fifty Street. This (50)square setback shall feet. not apply to (2) Property with multi- frontage IY on occupancy Rainier Avenue; buildings or S. In lieu of the multiple sign area building requirements of complexes with If subsection(1), fifty thousand 19 Aimmourommmignomminier • ORDINANCE NO. 4720 MAXIMUM SIGN MAXIMUM LOCATION AND REQUIRED SIGN TYPE AREA HEIGHT OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4.0 & Section 4-20-5) each sign shall (50,000)square not exceed an feet gross area greater leasable floor than one and area or greater, one-half(1-1/2) having frontage square feet for on Rainier each lineal foot Avenue S. of street frontage which the building or complex occupies up to a maximum of seventy five (75)square feet per face;the maximum cumulative square footage of all faces of a sign is fifty (150)square feet;provided, that the sign is located in accordance with subsection (6). (3) Multi- occupancy buildings or multiple building complexes with greater than 50,000 square GROUND(cont.) feet gross leasable floor area,having frontage on Rainier Avenue S. Such uses may comply with the sign area standards of subsections (1)or(2) above,or with 20 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 MAXIMUM SIGN MAXIMUM LOCATION AND REQUIRED SIGN TYPE AREA HEIGHT OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4.0& Section 4-20-5) the size standards of Section 4-20- 12C9a. Ground sign area may be transferred from within the City Center Sign Regu- lation Bound- aries to contig- uously owned property outside of the City Center Sign Regu- lation Bound- aries. Only sign area may be transferred, not the number of allowed signs. Where transferred,the maximum size of the ground sign shall not exceed the limits of Section 4-20- 12.C.9.a. c. WALL (1) General. Each (3) The wall sign (4) The sign shall (7) When WALL sign shall not shall be placed be mounted on projecting over exceed an area on the facade or above the a public right- greater than not more than business facade of-way one and one- twenty-five(25) to which it is (maximum half(1-1/2) feet above the associated. twelve inches), square feet for grade, (5) The wall sign a minimum of each lineal foot measured to the shall be placed eight(8)feet of business top of the sign. on a business clearance above facade fronting This shall not facade having the surface of a street,up to apply to multi- street frontage: the sidewalk is one hundred occupancy or, it shall be required. (100)square buildings or' placed on or feet maximum. multiple above the (2) Multi- building business occupancy complexes with entrance,if the - M 21 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 MAXIMUM SIGN MAXIMUM LOCATION AND REQUIRED SIGN TYPE AREA HEIGHT OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4.0 & Section 4-20-5) buildings or fifty thousand business has an multiple (50,000)square exterior facade building feet gross which does not complexes with leasable floor face a street, 50,000 square area or greater, and the feet gross having frontage business is leasable floor on Rainier located in a area or greater, Avenue S. multi-tenant having frontage building or on Rainier multiple Avenue S. In building lieu of complex. subsection(1), (6) The thickness the sign area of that portion standards of 4- of a wall sign 20-12.C.3 may which projects be met. over a public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve (12) inches. d. PROJECTING (1) Unlit, (4) Projecting signs (5) The sign shall (10)When externally shall not be be placed on a projecting over illuminated,or located more business facade a public right- tube illumin- than twenty- having street of-way, a ated. Such five(25)feet frontage;or, it minimum of projecting signs above the shall be placed eight(8)feet are allowed a grade, on or above the clearance above PROJECTING maximum of measured to the business the surface of (cont.) twelve(12) top of the sign entrance,if the the sidewalk is square feet per or sign business has an required. face;the maxi- structure, exterior facade mum cumul- whichever is which does not ative square higher. face a street, footage of all and the faces of a sign business is is twenty four located in a (24)square multi-tenant feet. building or (2) Internally multiple illuminated. building Such signs are complex. allowed a (6) The sign shall maximum of be no more six(6)square than three(3) feet per face; feet tall. the maximum (7) A projecting cumulative sign may 22 1 N..► ORD INANCE NO. 4 7 2 0 Y..r MAXIMUM SIGN MAXIMUM LOCATION AND REQUIRED SIGN TYPE AREA HEIGHT OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4.0& Section 4-20-5) square footage extend over the of all faces of a public right-of- sign is twelve way by no (12)square more than four feet. (4)feet from (3) Combination of the wall it is illumination. mounted on. The maximum (8) The faces of a size of the projecting sign combination shall be sign shall be separated by a twelve(12) maximum of square feet per twelve(12) face;the maxi- inches. mum cumul- (9) The sign shall ative square be mounted on footage of all or above the faces of a business facade combination to which it is sign is twenty associated. four(24) square feet. Up to 50%maxi- mum of the combination sign, six(6) square feet per face, may be internally illuminated. e. AWNING (1) Awning, (3) Sign copy shall (9) Sign structures SIGN, Canopy,or only be located shall be located CANOPY Marquee Sign: on the vertical a minimum of SIGN, A maximum of faces of the eight(8)feet MARQUEE fifty(50) awning, above the SIGN square feet of canopy,or surface of the copy may marquee. sidewalk. appear on the (4) Maximum Where under vertical face height/ awning, under area• thickness of canopy, or (2) Traditional awning/canopy under marquee Marquee Sign: with a sign:ten signs are The maximum (10)feet. anticipated,the copy area is one (5) Maximum clearance hundred fifty height/ should be (150)square thickness of increased to feet per face; marquee:in accommodate the cumulative accordance them as _ 23 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 MAXIMUM SIGN MAXIMUM LOCATION AND REQUIRED SIGN TYPE AREA HEIGHT OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4.0 & Section 4-20-5) square footage with the necessary. of all faces of a adopted edition sign is three of the Uniform hundred(300) Building Code. square feet (6) Building total. canopy poles shall not be placed in a manner which interferes with pedestrian or wheelchair travel upon a sidewalk. (7) Awnings, building canopies,and marquees and the attached or associated signs may extend over the right- of-way according to the terms of the adopted Uniform Building Code. AWNING SIGN, (8) The sign shall CANOPY SIGN, be mounted MARQUEE SIGN above the (cont.) business facade to which it is associated. f. UNDER (1) Six(6)square (2) The sign shall (4) Minimum eight AWNING, feet. not extend (8)feet above UNDER beyond the the surface of CANOPY, awning, the sidewalk. UNDER canopy,or MARQUEE marquee to SIGN which it is attached. (3) The sign shall not be more than twelve (12)inches thick. g. SECONDARY (1) Secondary Wall (3) Secondary wall (4) Secondary (8) When 24 ORD INANCE NO. 4 7 2 0 r.e MAXIMUM SIGN MAXIMUM LOCATION AND REQUIRED SIGN TYPE AREA HEIGHT OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4.0 & Section 4-20-5) SIGN or Awning or projecting signs shall not projecting over Signs: Each signs shall not be located on a a public right- sign shall not be located more business facade of-way, a exceed an area than twenty- containing a minimum of greater than five(25)feet Category A or eight(8)feet one(1)square above the B sign,or clearance above foot for each grade, another the surface of lineal foot of measured to the secondary sign. the entryway is business top of the sign (5) Secondary required. facade,up to or sign signs shall not maximum of structure, be internally twenty-five(25) whichever is illuminated. square feet. higher. Such signs may (2) Secondary be unlit, Projecting externally Signs: Maxi- illuminated or mum of six(6) have tube square feet. illumination. (6) Maximum height or thickness of SECONDARY awning with a (cont.) sign: ten(10) feet. (7) Awning signs: Sign copy shall be located on the vertical faces of the awning. h. MULTI-OC- (1) The sign shall (2) The wall sign (3) The sign shall (4) When CUPANCY OR only contain shall be placed be located on a projecting over MULTIPLE the business on the facade business facade a public right- BUILDING name and/or not more than which does not of-way,a COMPLEX logo of each twenty-five(25) contain any minimum of SIGN development. feet above the other Category eight(8)feet Sign size is grade, A,or B sign. clearance above restricted by measured to the the grade is lettering top of the sign. required. height. The maximum square footage limitation is one hundred (100)square L feet. 25 ORDINANCE NO. 4720 4. Maximum Size of Lettering. a. Maximum Letter Height. The maximum letter height of signs shall be as follows: DISTANCE OF SIGN FREESTANDING, AWNING SIGN/ MULTI-OCCUPANCY FROM RIGHT-OF- GROUND, WALL, CANOPY SIGN/ OR MULTIPLE WAY(ROW) PROJECTING, MARQUEE SIGN BUILDING COMPLEX TRADITIONAL SIGN MARQUEE SIGN Within fifty(50)feet of Twenty four(24)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches(applies to ROW: letters and logo) Between fifty(50)feet Thirty six(36)inches Twelve(12) inches Six(6)inches(applies to and one hundred(100) letters and logo) feet of the ROW: More than one hundred Forty eight(48)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches(applies to (100)feet from the ROW: letters and logo) b. Exemption from Maximum Letter Height. The following properties are exempt from the maximum letter height requirements of subsection a above: (1) Multi-occupancy buildings or multiple building complexes with fifty thousand (50,000) square feet gross leasable floor area or greater, having frontage on Rainier Avenue S.; or (2) Properties with frontage on Rainier Avenue S. 5. Sign Modification - City Center. a. Authority and Purpose. The Development Services Director may grant a modification from the sign standards for individual signs which do not meet the specific provisions of the City Center sign standards when the proposed sign is intended to accomplish one of the following purposes: (1) Respond to the needs of the public in locating a business establishment; or (2) Assist business in contributing to the economic well-being of the community; or (3) Install a sign that is considered to be historic or of historic value by the advertising industry or a recognized historic preservation organization, provided that such entity was not involved in the use, design or production of the proposed sign; or (4) Result in a reduction of signs on a site; or (5) Result in a reduction in the number of freestanding or ground signs otherwise allowed; or (6) Result in a coordinated sign plan for a multi-tenant building or multiple building complex. 26 °'r1,9' ORDINANCE NO. 4720 b. Review Criteria. If the Development Services Director determines that the intent of the proposed sign accomplishes one of the above purposes, the Development Services Director may grant a modification request provided the proposed sign also meets all of the following criteria: (1) The modification will not create a significant adverse impact to other property or improvements in the immediate vicinity of the subject property; and (2) The modification will not increase the number of signs allowed by this Chapter or allow a type of sign which is prohibited by this Chapter in Section 4-20-8.A; and (3) The modification will not increase the allowed height or area of any wall, projecting, awning/canopy/marquee/traditional marquee, or secondary sign by more than twenty-five percent (25%); and (4) The modification will not increase the allowed height or area of any freestanding or ground sign; and (5) The modification does not create a public safety hazard. c. Proposals which do not meet the purposes or criteria of subsections H.5.a and H.5.b above, may be reviewed as variance applications as provided in Section 4-20-1.C.2. SECTION XXIII. Subsections 4-20-13.B.2 and B.3 of Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" are hereby amended to read as follows: 2. If the City determines that there is no issue as to the artistic merit of the proposed object, then the City may issue the applicant a public art exemption certificate. Appeals from administrative decisions may be filed as referenced in Section 4-20- 1.C.2. 3. If the City determines that there is an issue as to the artistic merit of the object, then upon receipt of a completed application the Development Services Division shall forward the application to the Renton Municipal Arts Commission for review and recommendation and shall notify the applicant of the date the application was transferred to the Commission. The Renton Municipal Arts Commission, following adopted procedures, shall review and transmit to the Development Services Division a recommendation on the application not later than forty-five (45) days from the date of acceptance of a complete application, in accordance with the following procedures: 27 %iiof ORDINANCE NO. 4720 SECTION XXIV. Subsection 4-31-14.A.1 of Chapter 31, Zoning Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" is hereby deleted. SECTION XXV. Subsection 4-31-14.A.2 of Chapter 31, Zoning Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations), of Ordinance No. 4260 entitled "Code of General Ordinances of the City of Renton, Washington" will now be renumbered as subsection 4-31-14.A.1. SECTION XXVI. This ordinance shall be incorporated into the reorganized Title IV anticipated to be adopted in May 1998. SECTION XXVII. This Ordinance shall be effective upon its passage, approval, and thirty days after publication. PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL this 4th day of May , 1998. Marilyn J. Peter , City Clerk APPROVED BY THE MAYOR this 4th day of May , 1998. J se Tanner, Mayor Appr ed as to form: riAA).-,42AA.c.,0a/A.90--/-•^2",— Lawrence J. Warren, City Attorney Date of Publication: May 8 th, 1998 ORD.717:4/21/98:as. 28 May 4. 1998 ' Renton City Council Minutes '40e Page 161 MOVED BY EDWARDS, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL REFER THE ORDINANCE FOR SECOND AND FINAL READING ON 5/11/98. CARRIED. Development Services: An ordinance was read amending Chapter 20, Sign Code, of Title IV (Building Electronic Msg Board Regulations) of City Code by allowing electronic message board signs for auto Signs for Auto Dealerships dealerships located within the Automall area. MOVED BY EDWARDS, (Automall Area) SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL REFER THE ORDINANCE FOR SECOND AND FINAL READING ON 5/11/98. CARRIED. The following ordinances were presented for second and final reading: Ordinance #4719 An ordinance was read amending Chapter 13, Commute Trip Reduction, of Transportation: Commute Title X (Traffic), of City Code by incorporating recent legislative and Trip Reduction (CTR) administrative changes to the State's commute trip reduction program. Ordinance Changes MOVED BY EDWARDS, SECONDED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, COUNCIL ADOPT THE ORDINANCE AS PRESENTED. ROLL CALL: ALL AYES. MOTION CARRIED. Ordinance #4720 An ordinance was read amending Chapter 20, Sign Code, and deleting Planning: Downtown (City subsection 4-31-14.A.I of Chapter 31, Zoning Code, of Title IV (Building Center) Sign Code Regulations) of City Code relating to regulation of signs in the City Center area as defined, adding and amending definitions, and making minor amendments to the Sign Code. MOVED BY EDWARDS, SECONDED BY CLAWSON, COUNCIL ADOPT THE ORDINANCE AS PRESENTED. ROLL CALL: ALL AYES. MOTION CARRIED. NEW BUSINESS ' Council President Edwards invited public participation in the downtown area's Community Event: 1998 "Put a Shine on Downtown Renton" clean-up event, scheduled for Friday and "Put a Shine on Downtown Saturday, May 8th and 9th. Renton" Planning: City Area Councilmember Keolker-Wheeler proposed a neighborhood identification Identification Effort effort by which individual areas or districts (be they residential or commercial) could be distinguished using mechanisms such as signage. MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY SCHLITZER, COUNCIL REFER THIS CONCEPT TO THE PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE FOR EXPLORATION. CARRIED. ADJOURNMENT MOVED BY PARKER, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL ADJOURN. CARRIED. Time: 8:37 p.m. MARILYN . ERSEN, CMC, City Clerk Recorder: Brenda Fritsvold 5/04/98 rrrrminim Aril 27, 1998 Renton Citv Council Minutes Page 152 Mrs. Keolker-Wheeler requested a written follow-up on this subject, to include information on the costs associated with contracting for these recruitment services. Community Services Community Services Committee Chair Nelson presented a report regarding Committee King County's Livable Communities Conference and Fair, planned for Council: King County November 7, 1998 at Seattle Center. The purpose of the fair is to highlight Livable Communities Fair constituent and consumer choices, neighborhood action, and advocacy Sponsorship Request organizations. The City has been invited to be a sponsor of this event. Sponsorship requires a donation of $1,500 to $3,000 in cash, plus staffing of a booth at the event. The Committee recommended that the City decline the invitation to be a sponsor of this event, after consideration of the costs and staff time involved to participate in the fair. MOVED BY NELSON, SECONDED BY CLAWSON, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. ORDINANCES AND The following resolution was presented for reading and adoption: RESOLUTIONS Resolution #3324 A resolution was read authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to enter into a CAG: 98-, Cedar River utilities cooperation agreement with King County for Phase III construction of Utility Xing (Schedule E), the Cedar River Utility Crossing project, Schedule E (spawning channel and King County wetland restoration). MOVED BY CLAWSON, SECONDED BY PARKER, COUNCIL ADOPT THE RESOLUTION AS PRESENTED. CARRIED. The following ordinances were presented for first reading and referred to the Council meeting of 5/04/98 for second and final reading: Transportation: Commute An ordinance was read amending Chapter 13, Commute Trip Reduction, of Trip Reduction (CTR) Title X (Traffic), of City Code by incorporating recent legislative and Ordinance Changes administrative change to the State's commute trip reduction program. MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL REFER THE ORDINANCE FOR SECOND AND FINAL READING ON 5/04/98. CARRIED. Planning: Downtown (City An ordinance was read amending Chapter 20, Sign Code, and deleting Center) Sign Code subsection 4-31-14.A.1 of Chapter 31, Zoning Code, of Title IV (Building Regulations) of City Code relating to regulation of signs in the City Center area as defined, adding and amending definitions, and making minor amendments to the Sign Code. MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY SCHLITZER, COUNCIL REFER THE ORDINANCE FOR SECOND AND FINAL READING ON 5/04/98. CARRIED. The following ordinances were presented for second reading and adoption: Ordinance #4717 An ordinance was read amending Title V (Finance and Business Regulations) Legal: Telecommunications of City Code by adding Chapter 18, entitled "Telecommunications Licenses Ordinance and Franchises." MOVED BY CLAWSON, SECONDED BY KEOLKER- WHEELER, COUNCIL ADOPT THE ORDINANCE AS PRESENTED. ROLL CALL: ALL AYES. MOTION CARRIED. Ordinance #4718 An ordinance was read amending Section 5-1-1 of Chapter 1, Fee Schedule, Legal: Telecommunications of Title V (Business and Finance Regulations) of City Code by adding a Fees subsection for telecommunications fees. MOVED BY CLAWSON, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL ADOPT THE ORDINANCE AS PRESENTED. ROLL CALL: ALL AYES. MOTION CARRIED. April 20, 1998 \rre Renton City Council Minutes r..f Page 140 Finance Committee Finance Committee Chair Parker presented a report recommending approval Finance: Vouchers of Claims Vouchers #157514 - 158073; one wire transfer in the total amount of $1,790,532.11; approval of Payroll Vouchers #158714 - 158982; and 503 direct deposits in the total amount of $1,280,999.46. MOVED BY PARKER, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. Finance: Vouchers Finance Committee Chair Parker presented a report recommending approval of Claims Vouchers #158074 - 158492; three wire transfers in the total amount of $3,368,785.89; approval of Payroll Vouchers #158987 - 159249; and 501 direct deposits in the total amount of $1,339,101.40. MOVED BY PARKER, SECONDED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. Utilities Utilities Committee Chair Clawson presented a report regarding the Legal: Telecommunications Telecommunications Ordinance. The proposed Telecommunications Licenses Ordinance and Franchises Ordinance was presented to Council at the Committee of the Whole meeting of March 10, 1997, and was reviewed by the members of the Utilities Committee on January 22 and April 9, 1998. The proposed ordinance was distributed to all telecommunications service providers, and modifications to the ordinance were made in response to changes requested by providers. The ordinance establishes a fair process for accepting and reviewing telecommunications applications, and serves as a referral guide to the Wireless Communications Facilities Ordinance, the Cable Communications Systems Ordinance, and the Fee Schedule Ordinance. In addition to establishing a consistent procedure for registration and review of applications for telecommunications services, the ordinance requires that all companies identify any new services being provided, and assures that the City is being properly compensated. The Utilities Committee recommended that the City Council: 1) approve the Telecommunications Ordinance; and 2) approve the Fee Schedule Ordinance as amended to reflect fees for telecommunications services. MOVED BY CLAWSON, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT.* Responding to Councilmember Keolker-Wheeler, City Attorney Warren said nothing in the ordinance will preclude the City from cooperating with other jurisdictions to jointly site regional wireless communications facilities. *MOTION CARRIED. Planning & Development I Planning & Development Committee Chair Keolker-Wheeler presented a Committee report recommending approval of an amendment to the Sign Code allowing Development Services: electronic message board signs for auto dealerships located within the Sign Code Changes re Automall Area. The Committee recommended that an ordinance regarding Electronic Msg Boards this matter be prepared and presented for Council's consideration and first reading on April 27th. The Committee further reported that additional study and consideration of allowing electronic message board signs on a city-wide basis and for public institutions will be conducted by the Committee. MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY SCHLITZER, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. EDNSP: CD Zone Changes MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY CLAWSON, re Gas Stations, Vehicle COUNCIL LIFT THE MORATORIUM ENACTED BY RESOLUTION 3308 Service etc. ON FEBRUARY 9, 1998, RELATING TO THE PERMITTING OF NEW ara.. APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL Date PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE COMMITTEE REPORT April 20, 1998 Sign Code Amendment - Electronic Message Board Signs Referred (January 12, 1998) • The Planning and Development Committee recommends approval of an amendment to the sign code allowing electronic message board signs for auto dealerships located within the Automall Area. The Committee recommends that an ordinance regarding this matter be prepared and presented for approval by the City Council on April 27. The Committee recommends first reading of the ordinance on April 27. The Committee further reports that additional study and consideration of allowing electronic message board signs on a City-wide basis and for public institutions will be conducted by the Committee. athy lker-Wh ler, Chair U Tim Schlitzer, -Chair an Clawso , Member cc: Gregg Zimmerman James Hanson Jana Huerter Zanetta Fontes Peter Rosen April 13, 1998 Renton City Council Minutes Name Page 128 Planning & Development Planning & Development Committee Chair Keolker-Wheeler presented a Committee report regarding the proposed City Center sign regulations. The Committee Planning: Downtown (City reviewed the proposed City Center sign regulations at several meetings since Center) Sign Code referral in late September, 1997. Tours of nearby cities as well as the downtown Renton area were conducted. The Committee recommended changes to the proposed City Center sign regulations prepared in September, 1997, primarily addressing the following topics: - Nonconforming signs/close of business: Make these regulations tougher in the City Center than elsewhere. Allow for some exceptions for historic signs and business mergers, etc. - Liability insurance: Require an annual permit for signs projecting over the right-of-way to ensure that insurance requirements are still in place and that the sign is still secure. - Projecting signs: Allow small internally illuminated projecting signs; allow combination projecting signs having a portion internally lit and a portion externally lit or unlit. - Safeway redevelopment: Accommodate Safeway's sign proposal as shown to the Committee in March, 1998. Look at sign sizes for other properties with frontage to Rainier Ave. S. while still addressing the gateway into downtown. The Committee recommended that the proposed ordinance be amended reflecting the above, and consistent with the staff report dated April 6, 1998. The revised ordinance is requested to be prepared for Council consideration and first reading on April 27, 1998. MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. Community Services Community Services Committee Chair Nelson presented a report Committee recommending concurrence to waive all permit fees for activities endorsed by Community Event: River the Renton River Days Board of Directors. The Committee further Days Permit Fee Waivers recommended concurrence to hang the River Days banners from City light & Banner Installation poles for approximately one month. MOVED BY NELSON, SECONDED BY CLAWSON, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. Human Services: Housing Community Services Committee Chair Nelson presented a report Repair Assistance Program recommending concurrence with the staff and Human Services Advisory Policies Committee recommendation for the new policies of the City of Renton's Housing Repair Assistance Program. The City will begin implementation of the policies beginning on June 1, 1998. MOVED BY NELSON, SECONDED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. Budget: 1999, World War Community Services Committee Chair Nelson presented a report regarding the II Memorial Contribution request for a contribution to the Washington State World War II memorial. The Committee reviewed a request by the Washington State World War II Memorial Committee to donate $5,000 toward the establishment of a memorial in Olympia. Subsequent staff research found that this effort has the backing of the State legislature in the form of a 1998 budget appropriation of $200,000, and that an additional $170,000 has been raised to date towards the $700,000 total needed to construct the memorial. All cities and counties in the state have been asked to donate along with other public and private organizations. Based on the information gathered to date about this project as outlined in the staff report, the Committee felt the Washington State World War II Memorial is a legitimate and worthy memorial for Washington State World War II veterans. Therefore, the Committee recommended that Council _*air APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL Date V/3-9h PLANNING&DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE COMMITTEE REPORT April 13, 1998 Proposed City Center Sign Regulations (Referred September 22, 1997) The Planning and Development Committee has reviewed the proposed City Center Sign Regulations at several meetings since referral in late September 1997. Tours of nearby cities, as well as Downtown Renton area were conducted. The Committee recommends changes to the proposed City Center Sign Regulations prepared in September 1997,primarily addressing the following topics: • Nonconforming Signs/Close Of Business: make these regulations tougher in the City Center than elsewhere. Allow for some exceptions for historic signs and business mergers, etc. • Liability Insurance: Require an annual permit for signs projecting over the right-of-way to ensure that insurance requirements are still in place and that the sign is still secure. • Projecting Signs: allow small internally illuminated projecting signs; allow combination projecting signs having a portion internally lit and a portion externally lit or unlit. • Safeway Redevelopment: accommodate Safeway's sign proposal as shown to the Committee in March 1998. Look at sign sizes for other properties with frontage on Rainier Ave. S. while still addressing the gateway into Downtown. The Committee recommends that the proposed ordinance be amended reflecting the above, and consistent with the Staff report dated April 6, 1998. The revised ordinance is requested to be prepared for Council consideration and first reading on April 27, 1998. Yter-e6-1— 60 kt-E-&-__ thy Keo r-Wheeler, Chair a im Schlitzer,V. air Dan Clawson,Member cc: Mike Kattermann P&DRPT.DOC CITY OF RENTON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, NEIGHBORHOODS, AND STRATEGIC PLANNING MEMORANDUM DATE: February 12, 1998 • TO: Kathy Keolker-Wheeler, Chair Planning and Development Committee VIA: Mayor Jesse Tanner FROM: Mike Kattermann,D Director Neighborhoods and Strategic Planning Section STAFF CONTACT: Lisa Greeter(ext. 5578) SUBJECT: Proposed City Center Sign Regulation Changes After a series of citizen workshops, City Council Committee-of-the-Whole briefings and a public hearing on September 22, 1997, the proposed City Center sign regulations were referred to the Planning and Development Committee. The Committee has met on several occasions to discuss the sign regulations, and has toured the cities of Kirkland, Kent and Burien. A discussion of potential changes to the City Center Sign Regulations is needed to address some concerns raised at Planning and Development Committee meetings. NONCONFORMING SIGNS/CLOSE OF BUSINESS/PROJECTING SIGNS Existing Regulations -Non- All signage, conforming or non-conforming, needs to be removed upon conforming Signs: closure of the business. There are no regulations about nonconforming signs in the Sign Code,but in practice,the nonconforming provisions of the Zoning Code have been applied when existing businesses want to alter nonconforming signs. Proposed Sign Code • Allow changes of copy on nonconforming signs by existing Amendment-Non-Conforming businesses with a permit. Signs: • Allow for some alteration/repair of nonconforming signs (up to 50%of sign replacement value)by existing businesses. • When a business vacates continue to require that all signs be removed; enforce by complaint, and by requiring a permit for changing the face of a sign. Comments on 9/25/97: • Use of existing sign panels/inserts. • Clarify grandfather clause. February 12, 1998 Page 2 Previous Committee Direction: • Conforming signs stay even upon close of business. • Non-conforming-stay even upon close of business-use 50%rule. Options for Discussion: 1. Maintain current regulations. 2. Adopt current City Center proposal. 3. Conforming signs (sign structures, but not sign faces) stay even upon close of business. Nonconforming signs (sign structures, but not sign faces) stay, and if a business wants to alter the sign (including new sign face) by more than 50% of the sign replacement value,it has to be made conforming. 4. Grandfather all current legal signs as of the effective date of the new regulations. Then start enforcing the provision that all signs come down upon close of business. This would require a sign inventory,or registration of all signs by a business in order to know which signs are conforming and non-conforming and which have a legal permit and which do not. Any of the options should be reviewed in the context that they would affect nonconforming signs City-wide. Other background information: Mixed results in questionnaire about non-conforming signs: Upon close of business: • Require all signs be removed-25% • All signs removed unless tenant moves in within reasonable time; then only nonconforming signs come down-29% • Remove nonconforming signs only- 12.5% • Don't require removal of any signs-25% Related Issues-Projecting The sign which started the nonconforming sign discussion is a Signs: projecting sign installed in an existing bracket which should have been taken down at the close of the previous business (it appears that the original bracket has been replaced). Currently,projecting signs are not allowed. Closure of business regulations have not be enforced uniformly,since it is based upon complaints received. Options are: A. Businesses could wait for the new City Center regulations which would allow projecting signs, but not internally lit ones. They could apply for a modification regarding lighting style. B. Allow projecting signs interior or exterior lit,but projecting cabinet signs would have smaller size allowances (e.g. 10 s.f. for interior lit projecting signs; 12 s.f. for exterior lit projecting sign). This is Noe 'gar" February 12, 1998 Page 3 consistent with an earlier proposal. C. Allow exterior lit projecting signs as proposed. Allow interior lit projecting signs, at smaller size (10 s.f.), only if there are no other Category A or B signs (i.e. wall, pole, ground, or awning/canopy signs). SAFEWAY REDEVELOPMENT Existing Regulations: The Safeway site would be allowed signage consistent with any commercial or industrial business in the City. Wall signs are allowed up to 20%of the building facade(no additional size cap and no restriction on number of wall signs). Freestanding signs are allowed at 1 and 1/2 s.f per lineal foot of street frontage,up to a maximum of 150 s.f. Proposed Sign Code Wall signs would be allowed at 1 1/2 s.f. per lineal foot of building Amendment: frontage, up to a maximum of 100 s.f. One would be allowed per street frontage for the business. There are provisions in the amendment to allow for sign modifications up to 25% greater. Freestanding signs are proposed at 1 and 1/2 s.f. per lineal foot of street frontage with a cap of 25 s.f. One is allowed per street frontage. Increased freestanding sign area would require a variance. Comments on 9/25/97: • Visibility off Rainier for Safeway (see letter dated September 19, 1997). At the time of the letter, the primary concern was wall sign size. Since then, Safeway appears to have additional concerns about freestanding/ground sign size. The frontage outside of the City Center is not very great on Rainier Avenue South. Previous Committee • Develop options (orientation&square footage)for Safeway. Direction: Options for Discussion: 1. a) City Center proposal for wall signs; or b) For businesses with 50,000 square feet or more, allow wall signs to have a cap of 300 square feet if the property has street frontage on Rainier Avenue, and the business facade faces Rainier Avenue. Allow any number of wall signs as long as the total area of all signs equals 300 s.f. Then if they need more they can apply for a modification to have 25% more square feet. Safeway building facades which do not face Rainier Avenue S. would comply with City Center sign regulations. The smaller retail shops in the center that are oriented to S. 2nd or S. 3rd would also still need to comply with the City Center sign regulations.;or, c) Existing wall sign size allowance. 2. a) Freestanding signs consistent with City Center proposal to maintain gateway. Variance option available;or b) For shopping centers with 50,000 square feet or more, and oriented to :arrrrr. February 12, 1998 Page 4 Rainier Avenue, allow one of the freestanding/ground signs to be equal to 100 s.f.maximum based upon street frontage;or c)Allow freestanding/ground signs consistent with current allowances. 3. Exclude the Safeway redevelopment site from the City Center sign boundaries. This would affect the gateway into Downtown. Other Background The Safeway site is partly located outside of the City Center sign Information: boundaries and it may be possible to locate a freestanding sign along Rainier Avenue outside of the City Center boundaries. However,they do not have much street frontage along Rainier Avenue outside of the City Center sign boundaries. Although sign designs are not finalized yet for the Safeway redevelopment site,the sign sizes for Safeway in the Renton Highlands are: letters 190 s.f.;logo 56 s.f.;24-hour sign 42 s.f.; and food and drug sign 93 s.f. They are considering a monument sign on S. 2nd Street of 100 s.f listing all the businesses. ROOF SIGNS Existing Regulations: Roof signs are allowed as a choice for businesses in commercial and industrial districts,up to 150 s.f.based on property frontage. Proposed Sign Code Prohibit new roof signs. Amendment: Comments on 9/25/97: • Projecting and/or roof signs allowed? What if roof signs are not oriented to local streets? Previous Committee • No firm direction. Would roof signs be acceptable if oriented to the Direction: freeway and not local streets? Main Street guidelines: the Downtown Renton Association will research if roof signs are encouraged. Other options for Discussion: 1. Allow roof signs visible to I-405,but not visible to local streets. This would be hard to regulate and achieve. Even if the sign face weren't noticeable at the car/pedestrian level, the sign supports could be noticeable and unsightly. 2. Maintain recommendation to prohibit them. Auburn, Burien, Kent and Kirkland prohibit them. Roof signs are auto-oriented and intended to be read from afar. The proposed City Center sign regulations would accommodate awning/canopy signs and projecting signs which would address both autos and pedestrians. Other Background There was support for banning new roof signs at the citizen workshops, Information: and in the questionnaire responses(70.8%). r..+r Niue February 12, 1998 Page 5 BOUNDARIES Existing Regulations: The Downtown area is treated like any other commercial or industrial district in terms of sign allowances. Proposed Sign Code See map. In addition to including most of the CD zone and parts of the Amendment: CA zone,the boundaries include a gateway area at S. 3rd St. and Rainier Avenue. The areas included seem to be most related to the Downtown. Comments on 9/25/97: • Inclusion of more than historic district in boundary. • Extend boundary to Tillicum. Previous Committee • No firm direction. There was hesitancy about the Tillicum boundary Direction: extension. Options for Discussion: 1. Leave current boundaries as proposed. 2. Modify and extend boundaries to Tillicum Avenue. Other Background There has been general support for the proposed boundaries at the Information: workshops and in questionnaire results(75%of respondents). OTHER ISSUES One Council member at the public hearing on September 22, 1997 mentioned a concern about the loophole for animated signs (public service signs), that it be specifically worded to allow for public service announcements only. Also, a staff member has suggested that we might want to make an exception in the prohibition against animated signs in the City Center for barber poles. GENERAL COMMENTS Some general questions have been answered during discussions at the Planning and Development Committee. 1. A-frames - why not included? This topic can be addressed in a future work program addressing temporary signs. Currently, staff is recommending retaining the current prohibition due to enforcement and traffic/pedestrian safety considerations. 2. Want more liberal vs. more restrictive regulations. In some ways the regulations would be more liberal regarding allowances for projecting signs and awning/canopy signs for example. In other j ways it would be more restrictive in terms of sign numbers and size allowances in order to address the differing character of Downtown building and street layouts. 3. Was purpose to allow more and different signs? In part the regulations will allow additional sign choices. err 410, February 12, 1998 Page 6 4. Is neon border a sign? If it is meant to border a sign, it would be part of the sign. If it is intended to highlight architectural features and does not include letters, symbols, or other features intended to advertise the business, it would not be considered a sign. 5. Dimming at night - visibility of signs across from residence. The sign regulations currently require that all illuminated signs be designed and located to avoid undue glare or reflection of light. 6. Guide post lights. Special streetscape improvements or directional signs can be addressed in the future. It may be more appropriate to address the issues after design parameters are established for the Transit Center, Renton Piazza, and Dally Homes projects. Attachments: Proposed City Center Sign Boundaries September 19, 1997 Letter Regarding Safeway cc: Sue Carlson PDISFLW.DOC PROPOD CITY CENTER` SIGN REGULATION BOUNDARY .1/4.1I 11�i2 a t NI N .. =i Ir 4 Elk �. ..• ■2 Illia rial al. ----- min 1 t . � atil � 47.5 d II , -,., .• .... _ I� -� -) 1 , ri MN a Airport Way — I IIIMMISMIIII MN MN g IiiN S t ramil II IN lii lig• 111 NE MI mi Immo IP I 4 Min tri gi 4r. —= raik‘ 4 s,-- 1 0,c0V a -� =■ 4 . ' I )li m � ' \\s ..- ►`N I1 I.. n MO --,___ MN MI N um . S 2nd St .!Illi NI =� S 2nd ,l■m kih,p a � ■ - i — ,, ■ = pitied r el) P k S 3rd S`- �< _ � II MR MINN I MI .,.. 000 W '.' —, --is=m..i_l K e iii dAIr ... i C . i. mi W..ili M._-.1_4_..I, ipu_p,.c) —=__.:= .W/ — =.i ,", a .E , a. ' ■i III Wimil =NM Mill = „ii III�.� �;mii'm iim rem MI min nl► . Ilk Oa bib Ai Pee Erin iii : MI, Mr111-7 MINIL.Ti .....qm pp. , .,,„, Leji= ; .1 OM eiMI I ...1t2 IIIIIIII VIM IL A v.. MN MIN MN MN —En eh IIMMIll Niiirrl Mani. vim . El gm ..1. ( IMMO UMW MI 111110 all•••• =III LIM mil ...1 mit= =lir:xi INII•40/ rl II ill 11. Witeai IMI NMI II=MIN MIMI Mel .___NMI Mil= Ina Mr" 11111 (1) NMI. sus, moss, =MI M ilillti sV bra i MIME E, �Z7 f�■ IX f7 tY�s! ■so. .a MIMI Val aw mg �� l Mi mom min i I � tiG`<Y O, Planning and Technical Services Proposed Boundary + + Planning/Building/Public Works L. Grueter, O. Dennison, R. MacOnie *INtik/10� 2 July 1997 0 600 1 ,200 1 :7,200 • • 41110 BAYLIS rL�;;vir1NG DIVISION • BRAND CITY OF RENTON WAGNER SEP 2 2 1997 RECEIVED ARCHITECTS . September 19, 1997 City of Renton 200 Mill Avenue South Renton, WA 98055 • Attention: Lisa Grueter RE: Safeway Site - Downtown Renton JOB NO.: 93-1220 Subject: Downtown Sign Ordinance • Dear Ms. Grueter: Thank you for sending me a copy of your analysis of the new proposed Sign Ordinance as it would apply to the Safeway Redevelopment at Rainier Avenue South and South 3rd Street. Also, thank you for clarifying that the analysis was based on the understanding that Safeway would not have any property ownerships extending to and fronting on Rainier Avenue South. Per recent discussions with Safeway, I understand that they will control at least one, if not two, parcels abutting Rainier. These include the lot currently owned by Carney and occupied by Wendy's, and the lot currently owned by Carney which surrounds the Wendy's lot on the south and east side. When this transaction is consummated, Safeway will have property attached and facing Rainier Avenue. On the attached drawing, titled "Property's Status and Conceptual Site Plan," you can see one of many development concepts prepared for Safeway. As shown, Safeway is considering locating their facility on the eastern portion of the block. Their southern wall would abut South 3rd Street, and here Safeway is committed to creating a pedestrian-oriented facade complete with signs which would conform to the new downtown code, as well as canopies, windows, and entrances to enhance the pedestrian environment. However, on the west elevation, that view facing Rainier, Safeway's intentions are to provide signage visible to Rainier Avenue and in conformance with Renton's typical commercial zone. Safeway's intentions did not include conforming to the proposed downtown sign ordinance on this west facade. The current draft of the sign ordinance could easily be read in a manner that would not allow larger-scaled signage in conformance with other commercial zones on Safeway's ASSOCIATE Kent Pearse,AI Pet.CI Ars Planning • Architecture • Interiors MitchYockey,Al Johan Luch,inger,A' tl B.nb,, 10801 \twin Street • Bellevue,Washington 98004 Susan Chriswfides,$o Brian Brand.AIA FAX (425) 453-8013 Robert B.Reed.A' Richard Lr Wagner,AIA Guy Peckham,Al Thnma,Frye.Jr.,AIA (425)454-0566 City of Renton/L. Grier r.r September 19, 1997 Page 2 west facade. This reading could result from the fact that the building itself is within the downtown boundary of the proposed sign ordinance, even though the site and overall development has a major facade on Rainier. In behalf of Safeway, we request that a clarification be made to the proposed ordinance • that buildings that have legal access to Rainier be allowed signage on that building facade consistent with other commercial, non-downtown zones. Thank you for your consideration. If we can provide any further information, please don't hesitate to call. Sincerely, BAYL RAND WAGNER ARCHITECTS, INC. R hard L. Wagner, Enclosure: - Site Plan cc: Mitch Johnson - Safeway Construction Marty Jouflas - Safeway Real Estate RLW:amp _ 40110 :i•t ',.:q.1-r•••.:, 411110 . ... --.........._.---.------., . -... I /--- r • . . - . : I • I ; ;, • .• .• . , . , __. . , b•.-- -. • . . • . _ I I ,• , • • . . • , • / ;. f . L_ • I • / / ! / , -:i•• ;•.• , ,. '71 . • i ••: • ... —. / i ; '.. . .. / — . 'i....„._.________ L__....___Dam .. • ..____1. , a I '-• DCEEI - i I I • ,. . • 7 , I i . • . . • . - i I , f • ' l''.I'-.. .; . • • 1 -Z . H .I V A 7j.. 1- ..:,...s.il 1 ,,,.;,,, :.,. ' CI. • I .....:.... .. I ,-: _ ,, , ____) 1-,-------r: ! : i : , r.,—.,,, , . ..- .---, .., , __,, . _ . c, ,:, . , " . , L., r:. , , .,.. • , 5.1 1 : . , , .... , ..... v, .,..l I ''- ,.._..... Ilt: 1 ?•:••• , J.... I / , 13. 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[ __ I ...., I !---.- LI-I I .....1 I __ ____ no--7—• ----•------ _I__ .____J___ • ',!4.7.-tx ,,I-- --5----1 —7--Q ? cZ 1-- : EZ ' _ 1"-------. 1 --..- --i--.........-tr„. . .. 7- 0 CL Z 1.- [••• in ........1 a LICIT-11<1-':. :lir:: .-.111-11L11.1a.. a I I............ -,-• ---./............... i 1-M i ,1 —7—' — I I I 0 i I . '• 1 , ......... .........--.. 1 ___. —...:........, • , ...... .—— I i_r._r".1 'i • i 0 r CZ I I CD ____L____:".""•-•-•-.7,:' t"--1 , La__ p--/-, 1 '.. I lido 1- I • I --- - I - I ---- • -....r._ ----r-.-• N- \ ---Z,...--- < 0 I, ._21--Z :! I .(-3. ..., 132 LLJ : I I- ELI _ I .1-. _______J c---- -) C_c= '• = %, \ ,.---1- \ \. I I I I % __ < 0 : < 1.13_ P __.w: --z-:7-, .. ,--7----- ___ - \ .• -—-—• ;**;,r1Z1 1 \ ,0 •_) I 0 ce li i._ i I . • : El.. tr) : I •. \<, I .11 .- c- \ \ \ 7 , . I ' i--- I k) I 1 .1 I . . 0 \ \ . I . I I . . - . . . -1 I=ii . I! I < t. t \ t I I: \ 0 .. \ \ 1 , I 1 , 1 ir- I , I, 1.- ii ,. 1 I 1 ; \ -,. --1.1J< -. .) \ is•••••---) •-- . I, , \ , %,..) \ . \t. < . t. \ \% '1) I I 2 . . ,.' • , i II. ..- ; , 1--•,, , I , :• s' I i I I 0 \ )/ I I . . .i . . J : 1 :• •ti •3Av 'erre acre RENTON CITY COUNCIL Regular Meeting September 22, 1997 Council Chambers Monday, 7:30 p.m. Municipal Building MINUTES CALL TO ORDER Mayor Tanner led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and called the meeting of the Renton City Council to order. ROLL CALL OF KATHY KEOLKER-WHEELER, Council President; DAN CLAWSON; KING COUNCILMEMBERS PARKER; TIMOTHY SCHLITZER, RANDY CORMAN; BOB EDWARDS; TONI NELSON. CITY STAFF IN JESSE TANNER, Mayor; JAY COVINGTON, Executive Assistant to the ATTENDANCE Mayor; LAWRENCE J. WARREN, City Attorney; MARILYN PETERSEN, City Clerk; GREGG ZIMMERMAN, Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator; MICHAEL KATTERMANN, Planning & Technical Services Director; SUSAN CARLSON, Economic Development Director; LISA GRUETER, Senior Planner; COMMANDER DENNIS GERBER, Police Department. PRESS Katherine Hedland, South County Journal APPROVAL OF MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY PARKER, COUNCIL COUNCIL MINUTES APPROVE THE MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 15,•1997, AS PRESENTED. CARRIED. SPECIAL City Clerk Marilyn J. Petersen introduced the City Hall lobby volunteers who PRESENTATION staff the front desk and provide assistance and information to City Hall Lobby Information Desk visitors and callers. Noting they answer innumerable questions, both familiar Volunteers Recognition and unexpected, on a daily basis, she expressed appreciation for their generous contributions of time and dedicated service. The volunteers and the hours of service given in 1997 are as follows: Erma White, 180 hours; Mary Breda, 432 hours; Ann Grinolds, 261 hours; Bert Nord, 225 hours; Lena Church, 238.5 hours; Pat Barber, 216 hours; Helenanne Botham, 225 hours; Evelyn Nitchman, 225 hours; Jean DeLaurenti, 193.5 hours; and Florence Morris, alternate, 45 hours. Mayor Tanner noted that the volunteers excel in cheerfully greeting every person who comes through the door of City Hall. PUBLIC HEARINGS This being the date set and proper notices having been posted and published Planning: Downtown Si:n in accordance with local and State laws, Mayor Tanner opened the public /Code Changes hearing to consider the proposed changes to sign regulations in the Downtown Area (City Center). Lisa Grueter, Senior Planner, explained that the purpose behind the proposed changes is to recognize the unique character of the downtown area, and accordingly, treat it differently than other commercial districts in the City. She described the extensive public process undertaken to formulate the changes, which included two workshops, an open house, and a questionnaire which was mailed to downtown-area business and property owners to further solicit their input. Continuing, Ms. Grueter said the proposed regulations address type, number, size, height and placement of signs, as well as letter heights. Some new sign allowances are recommended, including allowing projecting signs over public sidewalks (new roof signs, however, would not be permitted). In general, size • September 22, 1997 %Noe Renton City Council Minutes `owe Page 308 allowances have been reduced in recognition of the downtown area's special characteristics such as its relatively short blocks and the fact that most buildings are placed very close to the street. The proposed changes are an { attempt to accommodate automobile traffic through the downtown, while also recognizing the needs of pedestrians. Ms. Grueter added that the proposal allows for modifications to the regulations upon the filing of an application similar to an administrative variance. Applicants could request modifications for location, size (up to a 25% increase), and lighting. Any requests for more signs than allowed, or to change the height or area of a freestanding or ground sign, would have to be presented to the Board of Adjustment. Concluding, Ms. Grueter noted the receipt today of some last-minute comments from Safeway on the proposed changes, relaying concerns about how the sign regulations could affect the redevelopment of their downtown site. Responding to Councilman Parker, City Attorney Lawrence J. Warren said he will work on revising the language in the Sign Code that addresses political signs, since the existing language may be too broad. He added that the City must enunciate a clear public safety reason for regulating political signs. Councilman Clawson inquired about the degree of authority conferred to the Board of Public Works to grant modifications to City Code. Planning & Technical Services Director Mike Kattermann replied that although the Board does have latitude to grant variances, it must abide by certain defined criteria in doing so. Audience comment was invited. Jennifer Jorgenson, 205 S. Tobin St., Renton, 98055, requested that the boundary defining the city center area for the purposes of this matter be extended to north to Tillicum and thus encompass both sides of S. Tobin Street. Noting this would not affect the businesses fronting Airport Way, Ms. Jorgenson said she wanted her street to benefit by the protections afforded in the proposed ordinance. Councilman Schlitzer reported that he was recently contacted by several persons who are uncomfortable with certain aspects of this proposal. He suggested that their concerns be addressed in committee before Council adopts the ordinance. MOVED BY PARKER, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. CARRIED. (See Committee of the Whole report later this page.) Councilman Corman requested that the Planning & Development Committee consider Ms. Jorgenson's request to change the boundary of area affected by the sign code changes to include S. Tobin Street. Mr. Kattermann commented that during the discussions of this issue, staff concluded that the businesses in the area of Tobin Street don't relate to the downtown or to the type of the environment the City is trying to create in the city center. Committee of the Whole Council President Keolker-Wheeler presented a Committee of the Whole Planning: Downtown Sign report regarding the proposed City Center sign regulations and related Code Changes amendments. The Committee held six briefings during June through September 22, 1997 `l✓ Renton City Council Minutes Now` Page 309 September 1997 to discuss the proposed City Center sign regulations, and related and housekeeping amendments. City staff conducted public workshops and an open house in June, July, and September, and a questionnaire was distributed in July. A public hearing has been held on September 22, 1997. The Committee concurred with the proposed ordinance prepared by the Administration and the City Attorney's office to create new sign regulations for the City Center and make related and housekeeping amendments, and recommended referral to the Planning & Development Committee to resolve a few remaining issues. MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. Planning: Card Rooms This being the date set and proper notices having been posted and published Land Use Definitions and in accordance with local and State laws, Mayor Tanner opened the public Restrictions hearing to consider the continuation of the moratorium on the issuance of business licenses and other permits for card rooms. Planning & Technical Services Director Mike Kattermann indicated the moratorium, declared on August 18th, is necessary to give the City time to establish appropriate regulations for this type of use. He explained that Renton has a disproportionate number of card rooms within its boundaries as compared to other cities or King County in general. Additionally, a 1996 amendment to the State Gambling Act allows 15 rather than five card tables per establishment. It also allows any card game permitted in a tribal casino to be played in these card rooms. Mr. Kattermann concluded that the subject of card room regulations is scheduled for discussion by the Planning & Development Committee on October 9th. Audience comment was invited. There being none, it was MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. CARRIED. Vacation: SW Harris Place This being the date set and proper notices having been posted and published (Rutherford et al/VAC- in accordance with local and State laws, Mayor Tanner announced the 97-002) continuance (from 9/08/97) of a public hearing on vacating a portion of SW Harris Place between Rainier Ave. S. and SW Sunset Boulevard (Rutherford et al., VAC-97-002). At the request of staff and affected parties, it was MOVED BY EDWARDS, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL CONTINUE THIS PUBLIC HEARING FOR AN ADDITIONAL TWO WEEKS TO OCTOBER 6, 1997. CARRIED. ADMINISTRATIVE Executive Assistant Jay Covington reviewed a written administrative report REPORT summarizing the City's recent progress toward goals and work programs adopted as part of its business plan for 1997 and beyond. Items noted included: * The list recommended by the Eastside Transportation Partnership (ETP) for lobbying on transportation funding includes a significant number of Renton projects, notably the NE 44th St. interchange at Port Quendall. * Metro has expressed agreement with the City's preferred operational scheme for the Downtown Renton Transit Center. APPROVED BY lime' Nose CITY COUNCIL • Date I-% .?. y7 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE COMMITTEE REPORT September 22, 1997 Proposed City Center Sign Regulations and Related Amendments (Referred June 2, 1997) The Committee held six briefings during June through September 1997 to discuss the proposed City Center sign regulations, and related and housekeeping amendments. City staff conducted public workshops and an open house in June, July and September, and a questionnaire was distributed in July. A public hearing has been held on September 22, 1997. The Committee concurs with the proposed ordinance prepared by the Administration and the City Attorney's office to create new sign regulations for the City Center and make related and housekeeping amendments, and recommends referral to the Planning and Development Committee to resolve a few remaining issues. Kathy K-. . er-Wheeler, Council President , cc: Jay Covington Mike Kattermann Marilyn Petersen Gregg Zimmerman COMRPT2.DOC 'lire ,:,,:.,,..,,,•:,....::„...::,..-.,:!...!:,..!.1.,!,,...,:.,,,.,,i,,,.:,.....:::..1.1,:!:,.,:•:,1,1::;::,:li!!:::,:!,,:i:gi,iiiiiii.-..ji.iiii,:iiiii:::::!:y.,!..::::-.•....-....,,,,::::i.:,,.i,.i.,.i,....::,..:..:-.,1..:•.,,,..i.:,.i:,:.-i:i!!!!!.,.-..:,..:-:,..•,...,:-...:.:...-..!:,!.:....!.i.i.,:',...!.-:!!1.!...!....:..ii!ii.!.:z.i,..ii,,,....j..:...i.!...,.'!,.!....:.,......:',-;,..::.]:...:...i.i..,:..•.'..swr,rtasfe.A,:..,...,::,..,..::,..,-,..,7:-...!:...i. .:.!.mg::::,:,..:.,:m.:::.- ,0w-. ...-.....,:7:p.....-.-:..foR7..i!,.77].,.....ii..,.....:.,....::..,..,:i.:.:.......,..,:::::::.',.,:i.:.:::7:7..- (X--)4 Cx O Renton ' :BLIC INFOklitATION HANDOUT 'eptember 22, 199T PROPOSED SIGN CODE UPDATE CITY CENTER SIGN REGULATIONS For additional information, please-contact: City of Renton Planning at 235 2552 or Bail Lisa Grueter tlarectIy t 277 557: . .: . Existing sign regulations treat all commercial districts the same. Proposed sign standards would result in signage better suited to the scale and character of the City Center. A comparison of existing and proposed sign regulations is provided on Table 1. The code amendments are presented in three parts: • Proposed City Center Sign Code Regulations - regulations establishing the City Center Sign Regulation Area and associated sign standards. Regulations address type, number, size, height, and placement of signs, as well as letter heights. A sign modification section is also included. Some new sign allowances have been made for the City Center including allowing projecting signs over public sidewalks and clarifying that awning and canopy signs are allowed. New roof signs would not be allowed. In general, size allowances have been reduced to recognize that the City Center's street grid,building placement,and other characteristics are different from other business districts. • Related Amendments - amendments needed in other sections to coordinate with the City Center amendments; some of these affect provisions City-wide. Affected sections include definitions, , exempt signs, prohibited signs, nonconforming signs, construction standards, Public Arts Commission timeline, and others. • Housekeeping Amendments - amendments needed to correct references, delete language tied to zoning classifications which do not exist anymore, delete conflicting code language, and clarify requirements (e.g. for residential occupancies, schools, churches, etc.) based upon the current • administration of the Sign Code. The proposed City Center Boundaries are shown in Figure 1 of this document. 1 9/16/97 r , 1011, TABLE 1: CURRENT AND PROPOSED SIGN REGULATIONS-CITY CENTER EXISTING PROPOSED Business Signs(Choose One): Category A(Choose One): • Freestanding • Freestanding • Roof • Ground • Ground • Wall (New roof or combination signs not allowed) • Projecting(not allowed over ROW) Number: 1 per street frontage for single occupancy building • Combination (combines features of pole, (freestdg. corner lot only), or multi-occupancy building, or multiple projecting and roof sign) building complex.Freestanding and ground signs max.of 2. Number: Allowed to have 1 per street frontage per Size: Freestanding and ground-1 and 1/2 s.f.per lineal ft. of street business. Shopping centers can have one per street frontage,max.25 s.f per face,total 50 s.f. Wall-1 and 1/2 s.f per frontage. lineal ft.of building frontage,max.of 100 s.f. Size: 1 and 1/2 s.f per lineal ft. of street frontage. Height: 20 ft. freestanding;5 ft.ground. Wall sign placement max. Max. 150 s.f.per face,max.300 s.£total all faces. 25 ft.high from grade. AND Height: Freestanding,projecting, or combination - 40 ft. high or height of zone. Roof signs 20 ft. Category B(Choose One): above roof. Ground sign definition limits height to • Projecting(would be allowed over ROW) 6 ft. • Awning/Canopy/Marquee Sign AND Number: 1 per ground-level business for each facade fronting a • Wall Signs public street. And, 1 per ground-level tenant in a multi-occupancy Number: Not limited. building or multiple building complex. Size:20%of building facade to which it is attached. Size: Projecting- 12 s.f per face,24 s.f.total;cannot be internally lit. Awning/canopy/marquee sign - 50 s.f. Traditional marquee- AND 150 s.f.per face,300 s.f.total. • Marquee Signs Height: Projecting-max. 25 ft. above grade with 8 ft. clearance. Number: Not limited. Awning/canopy- structure height of 10 ft., placed min. 8 ft. above sidewalk. Marquee-per UBC. Size: Size of structure based on the UBC. No standards regarding sign size. Awnings have been AND interpreted to be similar to marquees although there Category C(can have any,or all,of the following): is no specific allowance. • Under Awning/Canopy/Marquee signs AND • Secondary wall,projecting,or awning signs,not internally lit • Under Marquee Signs • Multi-occupancy bldg./multiple building complex wall sign Number: 1 per entrance per business. Number: Under awning/canopy/marquee sign - 1 per ground-level business per public entrance. Secondary sign -Max. of 2; located Size: 1 ft.high x 6 ft.long. on a business facade with no Category A,B,or other secondary sign. Height: Minimum 8 ft.clearance over sidewalk. Multi-occupancy building/multiple building complex sign - 1 per building facade with no Category A/B sign. Abbreviations: Size: Under awning/canopy/marquee sign-6 s.f. Secondary-wall s.f. =square feet or awning sign 1 s.f per lineal ft.of business facade,max.25 s.f.,or projecting sign, max. 6 s.f. Multi-occupancy building/multiple ft.=foot or feet building complex - 100 s.f.; size restricted by 6 inch letter/logo ROW=right-of-way height for each business listed. UBC=Uniform Building Code Height: Under awning/canopy/marquee sign - 8 ft. min. above sidewalk. Secondary or Multi-occupancy building/multiple building complex-25 ft.above grade. 2 9/16/97 PROPCED CITY CENTER SIGN REGULATION BOUNDARY ��' j�I►a Ill SIN /• �: lir • �7 ilii� �ii� '�II�i1 _ _=. Z a Airport Way 0 ��, igj C WI2ndlSum Imo Ili -•-�1 LI s* ■.�I II ��.����I�© .�■ . �. winsN_�1�aIIR 11111111 - - 0 ► fir k 1112 1111 ii. a 1 .. al iiiiN�� Jo.c\coV a� ra ., r . . mil m Non - at\ti NE 4 I E _ 1 e_ -! . ■i I S a .sue•• Ern mom ` WI -r is�� 2nd St r 2nd '■" iiih, . mill, A_____ ,___ ..0r44, 1 k S 3rd S — ■����IIII I ICI I I) I H I I� -- !! :/ ■ 0='ice— „► ,_.� ►se Al.� ■i =—_ %Nor Ill: _. �� �r / MI ■■ r ��Alm FIE ■p — T= / An or. mai m Pen. .....___1. Viii Ilik mum ' _ St-. mg S U "AlWoern ■ J �� , lt ,�'�' _ . ►i s�rzy �-:L= = �: 16....a, � ll' m ■ woo um_ 2 Atm WV Mol II UuI mu. !"IL__` o� ■ �d �I v<CY. O� Planning and Technical Services Proposed Boundary + + Planning/Building/Public Works L. Grueter, O. Dennison, R. MacOnie (FN.tO$ 2 July 1997 0 600 1 ,200 ...:..:.:..... .......................... 1 :7,200 -4400 0 DOWNTOWN SIGN CODE UPDATE Planning&Technical Services September 22,1997 2 O Purpose • Sign code currently treats all commercial districts the same ♦ City Council-Downtown sign moratorium May 19,rescinded June 2 • Mayor&City Council directed new regulations to recognize unique character of Downtown area-called City Center 3 0 Public Participation • Workshop meeting 1,June 12 • Workshop meeting 2,July 22 • Questionnaire,July • Open House meeting 3,September 10 ♦ Public hearing,September 22 4 O Key Features • City Center(Boundaries,Sign Standards,Letter Sizes, Modifications) • Related Amendments(e.g. definitions,nonconforming,prohibited, etc.) • Housekeeping Amendments(e.g.delete old zoning references, etc.) 5 0 City Center Boundaries 61 7 O City Center Signs • Regulations reduce sign sizes/heights over the existing code to: • Reflect character of City Center streets,buildings,etc. • Accommodate autos,but recognize pedestrians • Allow some additional sign choices(e.g.projecting signs over ROW) 8 0 Modifications • For City Center only • Similar to Administrative Variance(application fee is$100) • Can request modification for location,size(up to 25% increase), 1 ))((• )ksP) lighting,etc. • Can't increase the number of signs • Can't change height or area of freestanding or ground si� 9 0 Nonconforming Signs • Keep current standard that all signs be removed when a business closes&vacates • Existing businesses may change the face of nonconforming signs with a permit • Existing businesses-alterations allowed to existing nonconforming signs(up to 50% of the replacement value) 10 0 Staff Recommendations • City Attorney's office-review two issues to ensure appropriate regulations: political campaign signs and signs for religious institutions • Recommend referring these issues to a Council Committee 11 O Staff Recommendations (cont.) • Staff recommends referral of proposed Ordinance to the Planning and Dev.Committee • A Sign Code amendment ordinance is ready for adoption 4Ock-icAl A__, . rwnrr.r. rr.„i • m• m @oNooro I T. •E OQ N O 0.vy=� c -a- mcaNioo0 Ztt)S 02c o Boa._>�oo >'°` ESV -E°mN>Nm t o ee as N O O 0 ' ` ,' 0 ▪kkt O co q W— O)V•-O cV N =7 e.— RIN WC cia SCpg tq O•pcy2 C 3 d OS ocml av 7 00— cU c.c % -pycco •. 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RECEIVED SEP 9 1997 CITY OF RENTON PLANNINGBUILDING/PUBLIC WORKS RENTON CITY COUNCIL MEMORANDUM DATE: September 8, 1997 CITY OF RENTON TO: Kathy Keolker-Wheeler, President City Council Members SEP 0 91997 VIA: Mayor Jesse Tanner RECEIVED � + ��� Y CLERK'S OFFICE FROM: Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator 6 Planning/Building/Public Works Department STAFF CONTACT: Mike Kattermann (ext. 6190) SUBJECT: Revised Draft Sign Regulation Proposal &Issue Paper ISSUE: • Should the Renton Sign Code be amended to provide sign standards tailored for the Downtown area? RECOMMENDATION: • Adopt new sign standards for the Downtown area (called the City Center) as presented in this issue paper, and in Attachment A. The standards better recognize the character and scale of the City Center. • Apply the new standards to the area contained with City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries as shown in Attachment A. BACKGROUND SUMMARY: Introduction With Resolution 3259, the City of Renton declared a moratorium on May 19, 1997 to halt the acceptance or processing of sign permit applications, except temporary signs, in the Downtown Study Area (boundaries are discussed below). After a public hearing on June 2, 1997, the moratorium was lifted. Although the moratorium was lifted, the Administration and City Council remain interested in preparing an ordinance to regulate signs differently in the Downtown than other commercial districts. The purpose of the new sign regulations is to recognize the unique character of the Downtown area, which is called City Center throughout the remainder of this report. a f September 8, 1997 Page 2 Summary of Public`Participation To help ensure that the new sign regulations reflect citizen input, a series of workshops have been held. Public notice of the workshops was mailed to about 400 addresses to persons who own property or businesses in the Downtown area, members of the Gateways Committee, and other related interest groups. The first workshop was held on June 12, 1997 at "Delancy's on Third" in Downtown Renton. The second workshop was held on July 22, 1997 at the Renton Chamber of Commerce. Also, prior to Workshop 2, a proposal summary and questionnaire were distributed to the mailing list. Participation has included about twenty-five citizens at Workshop 1, eleven citizens at Workshop 2, and twenty-four questionnaire respondents (as of August 4, 1997). Results of the workshops and questionnaire have been provided under separate cover (July 2, 1997 memo to City Council; July 10, 1997 Preliminary Draft Sign Regulation Proposal & Issue Paper; and July 29, 1997 memo to City Council). A public open house will be held on September 10, 1997. A formal public hearing before the City Council is scheduled for September 22, 1997. Existing and Proposed Regulations - City Center Existing sign regulations treat all commercial districts the same. Proposed sign standards would result in signage better suited to the scale and character of the City Center. A comparison is provided on Table 1 which follows this page. The detailed proposed code amendment language can be found in Attachment A. The code amendments are presented in three parts: • Proposed City Center Sign Code Regulations - regulations establishing the City Center Sign Regulation Area and associated sign standards. Regulations address type, number, size, height, and placement of signs, as well as letter heights. A sign modification section is also included. Some new sign allowances have been made for the City Center including allowing projecting signs over public sidewalks and clarifying that awning and canopy signs are allowed. New roof signs would not be allowed. In general, size allowances have been reduced to recognize that the City Center's street grid, building placement, and other characteristics are different from other business districts. • Related Amendments - amendments needed in other sections to coordinate with the City Center amendments; some of these affect provisions City-wide. Affected sections include definitions, exempt signs, prohibited signs, nonconforming signs, construction standards, Public Arts Commission timeline, and others. • Housekeeping Amendments - amendments needed to correct references, delete language tied to zoning classifications which do not exist anymore, delete conflicting code language, and clarify requirements (e.g. for residential occupancies, schools, churches, etc.) based upon the current administration of the Sign Code. ISSUES: Table 2 summarizes the key issues and proposals related to the preliminary draft sign regulations for the City Center. An issues discussion follows Table 2. September 8, 1997 Page 3 TABLE 1! CURRENT AND PROPOSED SIGN REGULATIONS - CITY CENTER EXISTING PROPOSED Business Signs(Choose One): Category A(Choose One): • Freestanding • Freestanding • Roof • Ground • Ground • Wall (New roof or combination signs not allowed) • Projecting('not allowed over ROW) • Combination (combines features of pole, Number: 1 per street frontage for single occupancy building projecting and roof sign) (freestdg.corner lot only),or multi-occupancy building,or multiple building complex.Freestanding and ground signs max.of 2. Number: Allowed to have 1 per street frontage per Size: Freestanding and ground - 1 and 1/2 s.f. per lineal ft. of business. Shopping centers can have one per street street frontage,max. 25 s.f.per face,total 50 s.f. Wall- 1 and 1/2 frontage. s.f.per lineal ft.of building frontage,max. of 100 s.f. Size: 1 and 1/2 s.f. per lineal ft. of street frontage. Height: 20 ft. freestanding; 5 ft. ground. Wall sign placement Max. 150 s.f. per face, max. 300 s.f. total all max.25 ft.high from grade. faces. AND Height: Freestanding,projecting, or combination- Category B (Choose One): 40 ft. high or height of zone. Roof signs 20 ft. • Projecting(would be allowed over ROW) above roof. Ground sign definition limits height to • Awning/Canopy/Marquee Sign 6 ft. Number: 1 per ground-level business for each facade fronting a AND public street. And, 1 per ground-level tenant in a multi-occupancy • Wall Signs building or multiple building complex. Number: Not limited. Size: Projecting - 12 s.f. per face, 24 s.f. total; cannot be internally lit. Awning/canopy/marquee sign - 50 s.f. Traditional Size: 20% of building facade to which it is attached. marquee- 150 s.f.per face,300 s.f.total. AND Height: Projecting-max. 25 ft. above grade with 8 ft. clearance. Awning/canopy-structure height of 10 ft., placed min. 8 ft. above • Marquee Signs sidewalk. Marquee-per UBC. Number: Not limited. AND Size: Size of structure based on the UBC. No Category C (can have any,or all,of the following): standards regarding sign size. Awnings have been • Under Awning/Canopy/Marquee signs interpreted to be similar to marquees although there • Secondary wall,projecting,or awning signs,not internally lit is no specific allowance. • Multi-occupancy bldg./multiple building complex wall sign AND Number: Under awning/canopy/marquee sign- 1 per ground-level • Under Marquee Signs business per public entrance. Secondary sign-Max. of 2; located Number: 1 per entrance per business. on a business facade with no Category A, B, or other secondary sign. Multi-occupancy building/multiple building complex sign - 1 Size: 1 ft. high x 6 ft.long. per building facade with no Category A/B sign. Height: Minimum 8 ft.clearance over sidewalk. Size: Under awning/canopy/marquee sign - 6 s.f. Secondary - wall or awning sign 1 s.f.per lineal ft. of business facade, max. 25 Abbreviations: s.f., or projecting sign, max. 6 s.f. Multi-occupancy s.f. = square feet building/multiple building complex - 100 s.f.; size restricted by 6 ft. = foot or feet inch letter/logo height for each business listed. ROW = right-of-way Height: Under awning/canopy/marquee sign - 8 ft. min. above UBC = Uniform Building Code sidewalk. Secondary or Multi-occupancy building/multiple building complex-25 ft.above grade. *41410 September 8, 1997 Page 4 TABLE 2: SUMMARY OF ISSUES AND PROPOSALS Issues List Proposal • What should be the boundaries for the City The boundaries should be drawn as shown in Center Sign Regulations? Attachment A. No changes have been made to the preliminary proposal of July 10, 1997. • How should non-conforming signs be Non-conforming signs are proposed to be treated? treated as follows: • Allow changes of copy on nonconforming signs by existing businesses with a permit. • Allow for some alteration/repair of nonconforming signs (up to 50% of sign replacement value)by existing businesses. • When a business vacates continue to require that atl signs be removed; enforce by complaint, and by requiring a permit for changing the face of a sign. In the City Center, do n propose requiring replacement of non-conforming signs when installing a Category A or B sign as this would discourage existing businesses from making changes to the new sign standards. • Should we allow A-frame signs in the City The proposal would continue to prohibit A- Center? frame signs. Directional signs should be addressed after design issues are addressed for major Downtown projects (e.g. Transit Center and Daily Project). A potential alternative of allowing A-frame signs as a bonus for coordinated sign programs is no longer under consideration since sign incentives are not included in the revised draft sign code proposal. A-frames and other temporary sign issues could be reviewed in a future phase of the sign code work program. • Electronic Message Boards - should non- Currently, all animated, flashing, or similar public service message boards be restricted signs are restricted within 75 feet of a public regardless of setback from the public right- right-of-way, except public service signs. As of-way? proposed, animated, revolving, or similar signs, excluding public service signs, would be restricted regardless of setback juit in the City Center, instead of City-wide as previously proposed. 4 September 8, 1997 Page 5 Issues List Proposal • Should any animation on a sign be allowed? Currently, all animated, flashing or similar signs are restricted within 75 feet of the right- of-way. A potential alternative of allowing a small amount of animation (20%) on projecting or wall signs in the City Center as a bonus for coordinated sign programs is no longer under consideration since sign incentives are not included in the revised draft sign code proposal. • In the City Center area, should there be In the City Center area, sign incentives are no provisions for sign modifications and sign longer proposed to encourage coordinated sign incentives to allow for creativity, and allow programs or unlit signs since based upon for coordinated sign themes? Workshop 2, there was little interest in the sign incentives, and because it would be complex to administer. A modification process is still proposed for the City Center to recognize special circumstances which may not warrant review as a variance, but need to be recognized as a unique case. Not all proposed alterations could be reviewed as modifications; some would still require review as variances. A fee for modifications has been added to the revised draft sign code proposal. The fee would be $100 dollars similar to the fee for administrative variances. • In general, how big should wall signs be? As there was general support for the wall sign Should wall signs be allowed on facades size in response to the questionnaire, no change which do not front on a street? has been made to the proposed size which is based upon the width of the wall with a cap of 100 square feet. Based upon input from workshops and the questionnaire, wall signs would be allowed on facades which do not front on a street, or which do not have public entrances. Walls without street frontage could have a smaller secondary sign up to 25 square feet. • How high should freestanding signs be? Freestanding sign height is recommended to be increased from 15 feet to 20 feet, and these signs could not interfere with driveways or traffic aisles. Although a 15 foot height limit was supported by those responding to the questionnaire, there was discussion at both Workshops about increasing the height to 20 feet for more visibility. September 8, 1997 Page 6 Issues List Proposal • How far should projecting signs extend over Currently, such signs are not allowed to project a sidewalk? into a public right-of-way. There was support from those responding to the questionnaire to have a maximum extension over a public right- of-way of 4 feet. • Should projecting signs only be allowed if Currently, projecting signs are not allowed to they do not have internally illumination? project into a public right-of-way which has meant no new projecting signs in the City Center for some time. While the previous proposal (dated July 10, 1997) would have allowed both internally and externally illuminated projecting signs (with internally illuminated signs at a smaller size) the revised draft shows an allowance only for projecting signs which are externally illuminated or which have tube illumination (e.g. neon). Because projecting signs over rights-of-way are a new allowance, and to better match the discussion of coordinated projecting signs and a partnership between the City and business associations, the proposal was revised. Issues Discussion City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries The boundaries are called the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries since they include not only the Downtown Core, but other related Commercial Arterial areas (e.g. the S. 2nd and S. 3rd Street corridors). Refer to Attachment A. The proposed boundaries differ from the original Downtown Study Area which were based upon boundaries utilized during the background analysis for the Comprehensive Plan Update. The proposed boundaries would exclude certain areas along Rainier Avenue, and Airport Way which are more arterial commercial in nature and which are not as interrelated to the Downtown area as are other corridors (e.g. the S. 2nd and S. 3rd Street corridors). The east side of Rainier Avenue at S. 3rd Street would be included because it is a gateway to the City Center. For ease of administering the code, the boundaries would include multi-family zoned areas near the Cedar River and near Fifth Street South. Inclusion of multi-family areas would not allow these residential uses to utilize the business sign standards being proposed in the City Center area. There has been general support for the boundaries at the workshops and in questionnaire results (75% of respondents). Two respondents made specific boundary suggestions. First, there was a concern about including the western portion of the high school and vicinity because these are in the Airport Runway Protection Zone. The Protection Zone limits the height of buildings and, therefore, would limit the intensity of uses. No change has been made to the proposed boundary since the Sign Code does not affect the allowable uses of a zone, and because the City Center sign proposal results Noe *Noe September 8, 1997 Page 7 in signage which is generally smaller in scale than is currently allowed. Second, another respondent suggested that the area is too big and should include the area between S. 2nd and S. 4th Streets because the Downtown centers on S. 3rd Street. No changes are proposed in response. The boundaries include the heart of the Downtown as well as gateway and related areas which contribute to the character of the Downtown. Nonconforming Signs There are a range of options which can address the removal of signage over time which does not meet sign code standards (called "nonconforming" signs). These options include amortization, requiring removal of nonconforming signage when a business closes, requiring compliance if a sign face is replaced, requiring compliance if the work on the sign exceeds 50% of its value, etc. Currently, the Sign Code indicates that all signage, conforming or non-conforming, needs to be removed upon closure of the business. There are no regulations about nonconforming signs in the Sign Code, but in practice, the nonconforming provisions of the Zoning Code have been applied. The preliminary draft sign code (dated July 10, 1997) proposed the following approach: 1. City-wide: A. Allow changes of copy on nonconforming signs by existing businesses. B. Allow for some alteration/repair of nonconforming signs (up to 50% of sign assessed or appraised value) by existing businesses. C. When a business vacates require removal of non-conforming signs only, instead of all signs. 2. In the City Center: • A. Require replacement of non-conforming signs when installing a Category A or B sign. The revised draft sign code would treat nonconforming signs, City-wide, as follows: A. Allow changes of copy on nonconforming signs by existing businesses. B. Allow for some alteration/repair of nonconforming signs (up to 50% of sign replacement value) by existing businesses. C. When a business vacates, continue to require that all signs be removed. Continue to enforce by complaint; also now require a permit for changing the face of a sign. Approaches A and B were supported by Workshop 2 participants, and by most responding to the questionnaire. The determination of sign value has been changed from assessed or appraised value to replacement value. The use of assessed or appraised value is used for nonconforming buildings, but is more difficult to apply to signs. It will be easier for an applicant to provide replacement value information. Approach C has changed to reflect the current practice of requiring all signs to be removed upon business closure. Due to limited staff resources, this will continue to be enforced by complaint as it is difficult to track the closure of businesses. A new amendment would require a permit for the change of the face of a sign to help catch nonconforming signs after a business vacates and a new business moves in. Although staff considered a "no fee" permit, the draft proposal would require 40001. September 8, 1997 Page 8 that a permit fee be charged for a change of sign face because there would be staff time involved in permit review of the new sign, as well as reviewing the dimensions of other existing signs on the site. The revised draft sign code proposal also does not require that nonconforming signage be removed when a Category A or B sign is installed. Although this was supported in questionnaire results, participants at Workshop 2 indicated that this would discourage businesses from upgrading their signs. Also, it was discussed that incentives to remove nonconforming signs would be more appropriate to achieve results. Staff has discussed the use of incentives such as waiving sign permit fees when nonconforming signs are replaced by conforming signs. However, sign permit fees are low ($15 to $50 for permanent signs) and would probably not be a large enough incentive. No incentives for removing nonconforming signs are proposed at this time. A-frame signs;directional signs Participants at Workshop 1 discussed A-frames extensively. Many felt that A-frames should be allowed if limited in terms of number and location. A few thought that too many A-frames are messy. Also, if projecting signs are allowed again, would A-frames be necessary? The issue was not discussed at Workshop 2. Results from the questionnaire were mixed, with about 33% supporting A- frames in the City Center, 29% supporting them only if they are part of a coordinated sign program, and 38% supporting continued prohibition of A-frames. Model codes vary in their treatment of portable signs such as A-frames. In A Guideline Code for the Municipal Regulation of On-Premise Signs (National Electric Sign Association, 1991), "The use of portable signs can create special problems because they usually cannot meet structural or electrical requirements, and many sign users abuse setback and placement standards. If they are allowed, they should require permits and be restricted to specific time periods." In Street Graphics and the Law (Mandelker and Ewald 1988), the model ordinance prohibits portable signs. The book notes that case law has supported restricting portable signs by allowing them only on a temporary basis. Locally, Auburn allows A-frames, but not in the public right-of-way. Kent allows them as temporary signs for a maximum of 90 days. However, enforcement has been difficult. Kirkland does not allow A-frame signs at all. Olympia allows one A-frame sign per street-level business in various zoning districts including the Downtown, subject to conditions addressing avoiding interference with car doors, pedestrian aisles, location in front of the business only during operating hours, hold harmless agreements, and size restrictions. The disadvantages of A-frame signs are that any restrictions are difficult to enforce. A-frame signs raise potential traffic/pedestrian safety issues and would result in the need for heavy enforcement by a limited staff. Also, allowing A-frame signs in the Downtown area could open up the issue for other zoning districts, since portable signs are currently prohibited throughout the City (except real estate open house signs). Possible options addressing A-frame issues include: • Continue prohibiting A-frames. • A possible alternative to A-frame signs would be the use of multi-business directory signs placed on poles in the sidewalk. Several downtown merchants have shown an interest in this { Now Nirt September 8, 1997 Page 9 approach in past months. Examples are shown in Attachment B. Bellevue and Kirkland allow such signs on a case-by-case basis if there is a demonstrated need due to poor visibility or traffic patterns. However, directory signs in Renton might be better addressed after design and signage are decided for the major Downtown projects such as the Transit Center and Daily project. The preliminary sign code proposal raised as an option allowing A-frames as a bonus for a coordinated sign program. Because sign incentives are no longer proposed in the revised draft sign code proposal (see below), this potential bonus is no longer addressed. Consistent with previous recommendations, A-frame signs would continue to be prohibited due to traffic safety and pedestrian concerns, difficulty in enforcement, and because sign standards in the City Center will now allow projecting signs over public rights-of-way. A-frames and other temporary sign issues could be reviewed in a future phase of the sign code work program if desired. Electronic Message Boards/Animated Signs Currently, sign regulations prohibit City-wide any animated, revolving (more than 8 revolutions per minute), or flashing signs within 75 feet of a right-of-way, except public service signs (e.g. time and temperature electronic message boards). The amendments would indicate that any animated, revolving (no matter the number of revolutions) or flashing signs are prohibited regardless of the setback, except for public service signs. The new amendment would apply just to the City Center. In the preliminary draft sign code, a minimal amount of animation was proposed as a bonus in the City Center through the approval of a coordinated sign plan. Since sign incentives are no longer addressed in the revised draft sign code (see below), this bonus is no longer presented as an option. Sign Modifications and Sign Incentives In order to allow for unique situations, a modification process would be offered for signs in the City Center. If a proposed sign alteration would not meet the criteria for a modification, it could be considered as a variance application which requires additional processing with the Board of Adjustment. Through the modification process, alterations could be made to the sign size or height requirements for projecting, wall, or awning/canopy/marquee, and secondary signs. A change from the preliminary proposal has been included to limit the increase in wall, projecting, awning/canopy/marquee, or secondary sign size through the modification process to 25% instead of 50%. Upon further review by staff the 50% increase was seen as too large to offer as an administrative modification which does not have public notification. A proposed sign area increase above 25%,could be reviewed as a variance. As proposed before, the height or area of a freestanding or ground sign could not be modified, but could be reviewed as a variance. Since modifications will require staff review time similar to an administrative variance, an application fee of$100 is now included. This fee is equal to the charge for an administrative variance, and is less than the fee for a regular variance before the Board of Adjustment which is $500. Depending on the complexity of the modification requested, the fee should allow the City to cover some or all of the cost of additional staff review. To ensure a more expedient review, the review criteria have been streamlined and clarified. September 8, 1997 Page 10 Comments from the workshop indicated support towards establishing a theme or common look for signs in the City Center area. In the preliminary draft, this was proposed to be accomplished by offering incentives. The City of Kirkland allows increased aggregate signage area (25%) if all of an applicant's signs are externally illuminated, or all are building mounted. Regarding coordinated sign plans, the City allows deviation from sign code requirements, although these are not specified. In the model ordinance in Sign Regulation for Small and Midsize Communities (Kelly and Raso, 1989), a 25% increase in aggregate sign area is allowed for owners of two or more contiguous lots if a coordinated sign plan is approved which provide consistent standards for color, style, lighting, material, location, proportion, etc. At Workshop 2 there was much discussion about sign incentives. Several thought that sign incentives would not be utilized since they were too complex, or not enough of a motivation. The sign incentives discussed are shown in Attachment C. The revised draft sign code does not include sign incentives due to the lack of support, as well as the complexity of administering these incentives. One idea which generated some support at Workshop 2 was creating a partnership between the City and business organizations to promote a standard projecting sign bracket that existing and new businesses would be encouraged to install. This was seen as a way to help start a common theme, and some enthusiasm for the vision of Downtown. Staff is investigating having physical examples of projecting signs at the next public open house anticipated in late August or early September 1997. Wall Sign:Facades With No Street Frontage;Size In contrast to the preliminary sign code proposal, wall signs would be allowed on walls which do not front streets or which do not have public entrances. This change is due to results of the questionnaire (67% support for this approach), as well as discussions at public workshops. As proposed in the revised draft, wall signs would be allowed as: • Category A - one wall sign per ground level business facade in a multi-tenant building or multiple building complex; otherwise, one wall sign per business facade having street frontage. • Category C -Secondary signs; maximum of 2 located on a business facade which does not have a Category A or B sign, or another secondary sign. - Multi-occupancy wall sign listing tenants located on a business facade which does not have a Category A or B sign. Over time, with the probable buildout of much of the Downtown area at zero setbacks and full lot coverage, wall signs on facades which do not face streets or without public entrances should not be an issue, but it may occur during the transition to more intensive development. In terms of size of wall signs, Category A wall signs would be scaled according to the frontage a building has along a street: 1 and 1/2 square feet per foot of lineal building frontage, up to a maximum of 100 square feet. See Attachment D for examples. This formula is adequate for a majority of businesses because most building fronts are small. However, buildings with frontages over 65 feet could have wall signs greater than 100 square feet using the formula if the cap were not proposed. No change in the cap is proposed because the instances where this would occur are not anticipated to be numerous, other sign types could also be used in addition to wall signs (e.g. projecting signs), and there is a proposed modification process. The formula and cap were supported by a majority responding to the questionnaire (54%). 1 / September 8, 1997 Page 11 To address wall signs on walls without street frontage, the size of secondary wall signs was increased from 6 to 25 square feet, based upon the width of the business facade. This is one fourth the size of the Category A wall sign. This size will allow for additional business identification, but will help avoid a billboard effect on the sides of buildings. Freestanding Signs -Height and Location How tall should freestanding signs be? Based upon the report Sign Regulation for Small and Midsize Communities (Kelly and Raso 1989), "An ideal sign height for auto visibility on a city street with a 35-mile-per-hour speed limit is a height that puts a sign comfortably within the windshield frame at a distance ranging from 80 to 400 feet... Clearly a sign height of 15 to 20 feet or so serves that purpose nicely, and one of 25 feet or more is likely to make it impossible to see the sign as the auto nears it. In Street Graphics and the Law (Mandelker and Ewald 1988), a suggested sign height for a sign on a 4-lane road with a posted speed of 30 miles per hour is 18 feet. The speed limit on S. Second and S. Third Streets is 25 miles per hour. Maximum sign heights in Auburn, Kent, and Kirkland are 35 feet, 30 feet single-tenant/15 feet multi- tenant, and 20 feet respectively. Kent requires a clearance of 15 feet over driveways. The revised draft sign code would limit freestanding signs (also called pole signs) to 20 feet in height which is an increase from the recommended height of 15 feet in the preliminary draft sign code. Although a 15 foot height limit was supported by respondents from the questionnaire (54%), several participants at both workshops supported a 20 foot height limit. Some thought that there should be 15 feet of clearance to the bottom of the sign, particularly near traffic aisles which would mean, that the top of the sign should be about 20 feet high. There was also a concern that the 15 foot height limit could result in freestanding signs competing for attention with traffic signals. The Transportation Operations Section has indicated that the minimum clearance for traffic signals Downtown is 10 feet, and the signal device is about 3 and 1/2 feet tall. This makes the height of signals a minimum of 13 and 1/2 feet. The Transportation Operations Section does not have a concern with either a 15 foot or 20 foot height limit. It should be noted also, that the Sign Code prohibits signs within 20 feet of intersections or driveways from obscuring vision between the height of 3 feet and 10 feet. Regarding clearance, the Uniform Building Code, for example, requires 13'6" clearance for canopies over drive-through windows. A 20 foot height limit for freestanding signs still meets the recommended height range of 15 to 20 feet described above, and is included in the revised draft sign code to respond to concerns about visibility. In terms of location, freestanding signs would be allowed at one per street frontage for single occupancy buildings on corner lots, multi-tenant buildings, or multiple building complexes. While freestanding signs would not be an option for mid-block single occupancy buildings, ground signs would remain an option for these sites. Also mid-block single occupancy building owners could apply for a variance if desired. This approach was discussed and supported at Workshop 2. This is the same proposal as in the preliminary draft sign code. Projecting Signs Projecting signs (signs attached perpendicular to a building) are currently prohibited from extending over public rights-of-way. The proposed amendments would allow projecting signs over public September 8, 1997 Page 12 rights-of-way in the City Center area. The maximum projection would be 4 feet. This is the maximum projection found in the model code from Street Graphics and the Law (Mandelker and Ewald 1988). Other alternative projections are allowed in various local jurisdictions: • Auburn-2 feet • Bellevue- 5 feet • Olympia- 3 feet • Sea-Tac -6 feet • Seattle-6 feet A 4 foot projection is proposed in the amendments, and would be a moderate allowance compared to the range shown above. The 4-foot projection was supported by 71% of questionnaire respondents. The size of projecting signs would be limited by a maximum sign height of 3 feet. There would be a minimum clearance above a sidewalk of 8 feet. The preliminary proposal allowed these signs to be internally or externally illuminated or have tube illumination (e.g. neon). The revised draft sign code would only allow projecting signs which are unlit or externally illuminated, or which have tube illumination. This would essentially allow no cabinet signs. This change was made because: • Projecting signs over rights-of-way are a new allowance for the City Center. • Externally illuminated projecting signs would better match the Workshop 2 discussion about a coordinated projecting sign through a partnership between the City and business associations. Quality of Materials There has been staff discussion about how to ensure quality signage, particularly materials. The current Sign Code addresses adequate construction, use of noncombustible materials, minimization of guy wires, braces, etc., limitations on glare and other aspects. Reviewing the sign codes from Auburn, Bellevue, Kent, Kirkland, and Tukwila, these cities do not address the look of materials specifically, or ban the use of certain materials such as plywood. However, some of these cities also have design review. The City of Tukwila includes a general provision about ensuring the sign appears fmished: The exposed surfaces of all signs and sign supports shall present a neat and finished appearance, utilizing the minimum number of elements and exposed fastening devices. If desired, similar language could be incorporated into the sign code to prevent obvious examples of low quality signs such as spray painting or stenciling letters on an unfinished piece of wood. Another option would be to require that signs be made and installed by a professional sign company. However, this requirement was not found in example codes. This could also restrict creativity for some businesses who might hire artists to paint a sign. 'r✓ terr September 8, 1997 Page 13 Changes to Proposed Regulations As identified in the issues discussion above, there have been changes to the preliminary draft sign proposal dated July 10, 1997 based upon public input and staff review. A list of the changes made since the July 10, 1997 version is provided as Attachment E. CONCLUSION: The proposal creates sign regulations which more specifically address the character of the City Center area. Sign standards would result in signage better suited to the scale and character of the City Center. Attachments: Attachment A -Proposed Preliminary Draft Code Amendments Attachment B -Directional Sign Examples Attachment C - Sign Incentives Summary (previously proposed) Attachment D - Sign Size Standards Example • Attachment E - Changes to Proposed Regulations - Since July 10, 1997 FlNALISs.DOC ATTACHMENT A 389 390 HOUSEKEEPING AMENDMENTS 391 392 4-20-9 TEMPORARY SIGNS: 393 *** 394 E. Political Signs: 395 *** 396 2. Political signs shall not be greater than thirty two (32) square feet if single-faced or 397 sixty four (64) square feet if multi-faced, except if such signs are on an off-premises 398 sign structure regulated by Section 1 20 12C6 4-20-8A10. 399 *** 400 4-20-12 SIZE,NUMBER AND HEIGHT OF SIGNS: 401 A. General: 402 1. Location. All signs are further limited and restricted as to , , 403 espy,design-end-location in the land use zones as such land use zones are defined and 404 established by Chapter 31, "Zoning Code", Title IV (Building Regulations), Code of 405 General Ordinances of the City, as amended, or any other ordinance pertaining to or 406 regulating zoning. The Zoning Code may contain further sign restrictions. Only those 407 signs specifically designated are permitted; all others are prohibited. -In those zones 408 409 2. Height Limitations for Signage Outside the City Center Sign Regulation Area. tThe 410 height limitation for freestanding,ground, projecting and combination signs shall be the 411 maximum height of the zone or forty feet (40');, whichever is less. 412 Roof signs may extend twenty feet (20') above the parapet 413 wall. This Section shall not apply to those signs covered by Section 4-20-12C.8, 414 Oversized Signs for Large Retail Uses, or Section 4-20-12H, City Center Sign 415 Regulations. (Ord. 4464, 7-25-94) 416 B. Regulations for Residential, Zones, and Residential, Church and 417 School Occupancies in Mixed-Use ZonesReguletiens: In all residential, 418 industrial zones, and for residential occupancies, churches or schools in mixed use zones,the 419 following shall apply: 420 *** 421 2. Churches, Schools, Etc: Churches, schools, apartment buildings, subdivision 422 I developments and similar occupancies located in residential and mixed use zones may 423 have two (2) on-premises identifying signs of not over thirty two (32) square feet in 424 area on one face. The signs may be illuminated but not animated, shall be for location 425 identification only and shall display no copy, symbol or device other than that in 426 keeping with the development. Freestanding signs shall be not higher than six feet (6') 427 above any established grade and shall be no closer than ten feet(10')to any street right- 428 I of-way or five feet (5') to any side property line. 9/8/97 21 • Noe 'yaw ATTACHMENT A 429 430 431 432 However, public facilities in residential zones may have one freestanding sign with a 433 maximum height of twenty five feet(25'). 434 *** 435 C. Commercial and Industrial Zones: Except in the City 436 Center Sign Regulation Area,the following shall apply in all commercial and industrial zones: 437 *** 438 2. Business Signs: Each individual business establishment may have only one sign for 439 each street frontage of any one of the following types: Freestanding, roof, ground, 440 projecting or combination. Each sign shall not exceed an area greater than one and 441 one-half(11/2) square feet for each lineal foot of property frontage which the business 442 occupies up to a maximum of three hundred (300) square feet; or if such sign is multi- 443 faced,the maximum allowance shall not be more than three hundred (300) square feet. 444 However, a maximum of one-half(1/2) of the allowed square footage is allowed on 445 each face. Businesses with less than twenty five (25) lineal front feet may have a sign 446 of a maximum of twenty (20) square feet per f 447 ii ithi f crn tback .,th 1 r r r 7 +1, ++l, ,7 b 7 448 449 *** 450 3. Wall Signs: In addition to the signs in Section Cl,Under Marquee Signs, C2,Business 451 Signs, C6, Motor Vehicle Dealership Over One Acre of Contiguous Ownership or 452 Control. andC8. Oversized Signs for Large Retail Uses, and C9. Shopping Centers, 453 wall signs are permitted with a total copy area not exceeding twenty percent (20%) of 454 the building facade to which it is applied. 455 *** 456 11. Commercial and/or industrial subdivisions may have two (2) on-premises identifying 457 signs not over seventy five (75) square feet on one face. These signs must be no higher 458 than six feet (6'), or no closer to the street right-of-way than ten feet (10') or five feet 459 (5)to any side property line. 460 461 . 462 463 pe fitted -this , 464 • 465 ' 466 , 467 468 dose ►ed-ice Seetio 4 20 8 of this-C apter is-IEept elea -(Ord. 417 ' °ear 9/8/97 22 ATTACHMENT A 1 2 PROPOSED CITY CENTER SIGN CODE REGULATIONS 3 4 4-20-12H. City Center Sign Regulations 5 1. Applicability and Purpose. 6 a. Applicability. The sign standards of this subsection shall apply to the property 7 contained within the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries as shown in 8 Figure 1, generally described as including: land which is zoned Center 9 Downtown, excluding lots located on Logan Avenue South, north of the 10 intersection at Airport Way; land zoned Commercial Arterial which lies east of 11 Lake Avenue South, and between Tobin Street South and South Second Street; 12 and land zoned Commercial Arterial which lies between South Second Street 13 and South Third Place, and east of Rainier Avenue South, excluding parcels 14 which have frontage on Rainier Avenue South and lie more than one hundred 15 and sixty(160)feet north of South Third Street; and land zoned Multi Family- 16 Urban which lies between the Cedar River and South Second Street, and 17 between Houser Way South and South Fifth Street. 18 FIGURE 1: CITY CENTER SIGN REGULATION BOUNDARIES 1 iumm.hium7 Far Airport Wa v••,c_,,,,,,4;p E,R.,,� r. 1 0 SILL f�lL 1��1/� _1 i.r 1i= M, Fis I \o,. 1 - 1 la 1lll11 f ir.is _. .„„,,,,,, \z-_ 4,c.,„:„X' e \ S 2nd St N ' �v 'N. t MIMI ...1 11 el ON .1.1.'4 ICI BE irt -iffilllll l lid HIM H_Imo' — r 2"d' C■ a ii —___,--r, :-.4 057---,_ NB i / ....mil=! itjillll h aor ���� 19 t , �,,,g P= aEm BB Fa grg Ffl-fi r 20 21 b. Purpose. The purpose of the City Center Sign Regulations is to provide sign 22 standards and regulations which recognize and strengthen the unique character 23 of the City Center area businesses and streets, provide for appropriate signage 24 which contributes to the economic vitality of the area and which complements 25 its environment, and to enhance the pedestrian orientation of the district. 9/8/97 1 ,400.0 vase ATTACHMENT A 26 2. Type and Number of Signs Allowed-Non Residential Uses. 27 28 a. Non-residential uses (excluding residential occupancies, churches, and schools) 29 in the City Center Sign Regulation Area shall be subject to the sign standards 30 and regulations contained in Sections 4-20-12H2 through 4-20-12H4. 31 Residential occupancies, churches and schools in the City Center are subject to 32 the requirements of 4-20-12B. 33 34 b. Permanent Signs. 35 36 TYPE AND NUMBER OF PERMANENT SIGNS-NON-RESIDENTIAL USES 37 38 SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN CATEGORY A Freestanding OR Ground OR Wall Select only one of the following sign types: Number One(1)free- One(1)ground sign Each individual standing sign per per street frontage ground-level street frontage for for each single business may have each single occupancy building, one(1)wall sign for occupancy building multi-occupancy each business facade located on a corner building,or fronting on a public lot,multi- multiple building street. occupancy building, complex. The or multiple building maximum number In addition,in complex. The of signs is two(2) . multiple building maximum number complexes,or for of signs is two(2). multi-occupancy buildings each ground-level tenant with an exterior business facade may have one(1)wall sign to identify individual tenant spaces. Mix of options An applicant for a business having more than one street frontage may substitute an allowed Category A sign type for another Category A sign type;however,the maximum number of signs shall not be exceeded. For example,on a corner lot,an applicant may request one ground sign facing one street frontage,and one freestanding sign facing the other street frontage. 9/8/97 2 1 • fir► ATTACHMENT A 39 I SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN CATEGORY B Projecting Sign, OR Awning Sign,or Select only one of the having no internal Canopy Sian,or illumination Marquee Sign,or following sign types. Traditional Allowed in addition Marquee Sign to signs of Category A. Number Each individual Each individual ground-level ground-level business may have business may have one(1)sign for one(1)sign for each business each business facade fronting on a facade fronting on a public street. public street. In addition,in In addition,in multiple building multiple building complexes,or for complexes,or for multi-occupancy multi-occupancy buildings each buildings each ground-level tenant ground-level tenant with an exterior with an exterior business facade may business facade may have one(1)sign to have one(1)sign to identify individual identify individual tenant spaces. tenant spaces. A series of awnings or canopies upon a single business and located on a single street frontage are considered as one awning or canopy. CATEGORY C Under Awning/ AND Secondary Wall, AND If applicable, Allowed in addition Under Canopy/ Projecting,or • Multi-Occupancy signs of Categories Under Marquee Awning Sign, Building,or toA and B: having no internal Multiple Building illumination Complex Wall Sign Number One(1)per ground- One(1)sign, One(1)per building level business per having no internal facade which does public entrance. illumination,per not contain any business facade other Category A,or which does not B sign. contain a Category A or B sign; maximum of two (2)secondary signs. 9/8/97 3 • v✓ w ATTACHMENT A 40 41 c. Temporary/Special Permit Signs. In addition to the permanent signs described 42 in Subsection H2b above,the following signs are allowed. 43 44 (1) Temporary Signs per Section 4-20-9 of this Chapter. 45 46 (2) Special Permit Signs per Section 4-20-10 of this Chapter. 47 48 3. Sign Dimensions/Additional Limitations: 49 SIGN DIMENSIONS AND ADDITIONAL LIMITATIONS • 50 PERMANENT SIGNS • MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REOUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) a. FREE- (1) Each sign (2) Twenty(20) (3) Setbacks shall (4) Minimum STANDING shall not feet,measured be consistent fifteen(15) exceed an area to the top of with the foot clearance greater than the sign or Zoning Code. above traffic one and one- sign structure, aisles and half(1-1/2) whichever is driveways. square feet for higher. each lineal foot of street frontage which the building or complex occupies up to a maximum of twenty-five (25)square feet per face; the maximum cumulative square footage of all faces of a sign is fifty (50)square feet. • 9/8/97 4 ATTACHMENT A 51 MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) b. GROUND (1) Each sign (2) Five(5) feet if (3) Setbacks shall shall not perpendicular be consistent exceed an area to the right-of- with the greater than way;four(4) Zoning Code, one and one- feet if the sign and Section 4- half(1-1/2) is not placed 20-5B1b. square feet for perpendicular each lineal to the right-of- foot of street way. Height frontage which is measured to the building or the top of the complex sign or sign occupies up to structure. a maximum of whichever is twenty five higher. (25)square feet per face; the maximum cumulative square footage of all faces of a sign is fifty (50) square feet. c. WALL (1) Each sign (2) The wall sign (3) The sign shall (6) When shall not shall be placed be mounted on projecting exceed an area on the facade or above the over a public greater than not more than business right-of-way one and one- twenty-five facade to (maximum half(1-1/2) (25)feet which it is twelve inches), square feet for above the associated. a minimum of each lineal grade, eight(8)feet foot of measured to (4) The wall sign clearance business the top of the shall be placed above the • facade sign. on a business surface of the fronting a facade having sidewalk is street,up to street required. one hundred frontage; or,it (100)square shall be placed feet on or above maximum. the business entrance if the 9/8/97 5 ',ewe Name ATTACHMENT A MAXIMUM , MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) WALL (cont.) business has an exterior facade which does not face a street,and the business is located in a multi tenant building or multiple building complex. (5) The thickness of that portion of a wall sign which projects over a public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve (12)inches. d. PROJECT- (1) Projecting (2) Projecting (3) The sign shall (9) When ING signs are signs shall not be placed on a projecting allowed a be located • business over a public maximum of more than facade having right-of-way, twelve(12) twenty-five street a minimum of square feet per (25)feet • frontage:or,it eight(8)feet face:the above the shall be placed clearance maximum grade, on or above above the cumulative measured to the business surface of the square footage the top of the entrance,if the sidewalk is of all faces of sign or sign business has required. a sign is structure, an exterior twenty four whichever is facade which (24)square higher. does not face a feet. street,and the business is located in a multi-tenant building or multiple building 9/8/97 6 ATTACHMENT A MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) • PROJECTING complex. cons. (4) Projecting signs shall not be internally illuminated. Such signs may be unlit, externally illuminated or have tube illumination. (5) The sign shall be no more than three(3) feet tall. (6) A projecting sign may extend over the public right-of-way by no more than four(4) feet from the wall it is mounted on. (7) The faces of a projecting sign shall be separated by a maximum of twelve(12) inches. (8) The sign shall be mounted on or above the business facade to which it ii associated. 9/8/97 7 lore ATTACHMENT A MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C & Section 4-20-5) e. AWNING (1) Awning, (3) Sign copy (9) Sign SIGN. Canopy, or shall only be structures CANOPY Marquee Sign: located on the shall be SIGN. A maximum vertical faces located a MARQUEE of fifty(50) of the awning, minimum of SIGN square feet of canopy,or eight(8)feet copy may marquee. above the appear on the surface of the vertical face (4) Maximum sidewalk. area. height/ Where under thickness of awning,under (2) Traditional awning/ canopy,or Marquee Sign: canopy with a under marquee The maxi- sign:ten(10) signs are mum copy feet. anticipated, area is one the clearance hundred fifty (5) Maximum should be (150) square height/ increased to feet per face; thickness of accommodate the cumulative marquee: in them as square footage accordance necessary. of all faces of with the a sign is three adopted hundred(300) edition of the square feet Uniform total. Building Code. (6) Building canopy poles shall not be placed in a manner which interferes with pedestrian or wheelchair travel upon a sidewalk. • (7) Awnings. building canopies,and marquees and the attached or 9/8/97 8 41/ ATTACHMENT A MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REOUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C & Section 4-20-5) AWNING SIGN, associated CANOPY SIGN, signs may MARQUEE SIGN extend over (cont.) the right-of- way according to the terms of the adopted Uniform Building Code. (8) The sign shall be mounted above the business facade to which it is associated. f. UNDER (1) Six(6) square (2) The sign shall (4) Minimum AWNING, feet. not extend eight(8)feet UNDER beyond the above the CANOPY, awning, surface of the UNDER canopy,or sidewalk. MARQUEE marquee to SIGN • which it is attached. (3) The sign shall not be more than twelve (12)inches thick. 9/8/97 9 +err' v001 ATTACHMENT A 52 MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REOUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) g. SECOND- (1) Secondary (3) Secondary (4) Secondary (8) When ARY SIGN Wall or wall or signs shall not projecting Awning Signs: projecting be located on over a public Each sign signs shall not a business right-of-way, shall not be located facade a minimum of exceed an area more than containing a eight(8)feet greater than twenty-five Category A or clearance one(1)square (25)feet B sign, or above the foot for each above the another surface of the lineal foot of grade, secondary entryway is business measured to sign. required. facade,up to the top of the maximum of sign or sign (5) Secondary twenty-five structure signs shall not (25)square whichever is be internally feet. higher. illuminated. Such signs (2) Secondary may be unlit, Projecting externally Signs: illuminated or Maximum of have tube six(6)square illumination. feet. (6) Maximum height or thickness of awning with a sign: ten(10) feet. (7) Awning signs: Sign copy shall be located on the vertical faces of the awning. 9/8/97 10 ATTACHMENT A 53 MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REOUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) h. MULTI-OC- (1) The sign shall (2) The wall sign (3) The sign shall (4) When CUPANCY only contain shall be placed be located on a projecting OR the business on the facade business facade over a public MULTIPLE name and/or not more than which does not right-of-way, BUILDING logo of each twenty-five contain any a minimum of COMPLEX development. (25)feet other Category eight(8)feet SIGN Sign size is above the A.or B sign. clearance restricted by grade, above the lettering measured to grade is height. The the top of the required. maximum sign. square footage limitation is one hundred (100) square feet. 54 55 3. Maximum Size of Lettering. • 56 MAXIMUM LETTER HEIGHT DISTANCE OF SIGN FREESTANDING, AWNING SIGN/ MULTI- FROM RIGHT-OF- GROUND, WALL, CANOPY SIGN/ OCCUPANCY OR WAY(ROW) PROJECTING, MARQUEE SIGN MULTIPLE TRADITIONAL BUILDING MARQUEE SIGN COMPLEX SIGN Within fifty(50)feet of Twenty four(24)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches(applies ROW: to letters and logo) Between fifty(50)feet Thirty six(36)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches(applies and one hundred(100) to letters and logol feet of the ROW: More than one hundred Forty eight(48)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches(applies (100)feet from the to letters and logo) ROW: 57 9/8/97 11 • Noe Awe ATTACHMENT A 58 4. Sign Modification-City Center. 59 a. Authority and Purpose. The Development Services Director may grant a 60 modification from the sign standards for individual signs which do not meet the 61 specific provisions of the City Center sign standards when the proposed sign is 62 intended to accomplish one of the following purposes: 63 (1) Respond to the needs of the public in locating a business 64 establishment;or 65 (2) Assist business in contributing to the economic well-being of the 66 community;or 67 (3) Install a sign that is considered to be historic or of historic value by the 68 advertising industry or a recognized historic preservation organization, 69 provided that such entity was not involved in the use, design or 70 production of the proposed sign;or 71 (4) Result in a reduction of signs on a site;or 72 (5) Result in a reduction in the number of freestanding or ground signs 73 otherwise allowed;or 74 (5) Result in a coordinated sign plan for a multi tenant building or 75 multiple building complex. 76 b. Review Criteria. If the Development Services Director determines that the 77 intent of the proposed sign accomplishes one of the above purposes, the 78 Development Services Director may grant a modification request provided the 79 proposed sign also meets all of the following criteria: 80 (1) The modification will not create a significant adverse impact to other 81 property or improvements in the immediate vicinity of the subject 82 property; and 83 (2) The modification will not increase the number of signs allowed by this 84 Chapter or allow a type of sign which is prohibited by this Chapter in 85 Section 4-20-8A;and 86 (3) The modification will not increase the allowed height or area of any 87 wall, projecting, awning/canopy/marquee/traditional marquee, or 88 secondary sign by more than twenty-five percent(25%);and 89 (4) The modification will not increase the allowed height or area of any 90 freestanding or ground sign: and 91 (5) The modification does not create a public safety hazard. 92 c. Proposals which do not meet the purposes or criteria of subsections H4a and 93 H4b above,may be reviewed as variance applications as provided in Section 4- 94 20-1C2. 95 9/8/97 12 %or vie ATTACHMENT A 96 97 -RELATED AMENDMENTS- 98 (SOME AFFECT SIGN REGULATIONS CITY-WIDE) 99 100 4-20-1 TITLE, SCOPE AND ENFORCEMENT: 101 *** 102 B. Purpose, Scope and Exemptions from Sign Code Regulations: 103 1. Purpose. It is the purpose of this Code to provide a means of regulating signs so as to 104 promote the health, safety, morals, general welfare, social and economic welfare and 105 esthetics of the City. Signs are erected to provide information for the benefit and 106 convenience of pedestrians and motorists and should not detract from the quality of 107 urban environment by being competitive or garish. Signs should complement and 108 characterize the environment which they serve to give their respective areas a unique 109 and pleasing quality. 110 The 111 regulations of this Code are not intended to permit any violations of any other lawful 112 ordinance. 113 Wig. 114 2. Scope. The purposes of this Chapter are implemented through the establishment of 115 standards for the type,placement, scale, and construction of signs which varies by uses 116 zoning district, or City Center sign district. 117 3. Exemption from Sign Code Regulations. This Code does not apply to any signs or sign 118 structures located within a building. 119 *** 120 4-20-2 DEFINITIONS,-AND ABBREVIATIONS, AND MEASUREMENTS: 121 A. Definitions and abbreviations. 122 For the purpose of this Code, certain abbreviations,terms,phrases, words and their derivatives shall be 123 construed as specified in this Section. Words used in the singular include the plural, and the plural the 124 singular. Words used in the masculine gender include the feminine,and the feminine the masculine. 125 *** 126 AWNING: A shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a building. Awnings have 127 noncombustible frames, but may have combustible coverings. Awnings may be fixed, retractable, 128 folding or collapsible. Awnings shall not extend above any adjacent parapet or roof of supporting 129 building. 130 *** 131 BUILDING COMPLEX, MULTIPLE: A group of structures housing more than one type of retail 132 business,office or commercial venture and generally under one ownership and control. 133 *** 9/8/97 13 Nary %No ATTACHMENT A 134 BUILDING,MULTI-OCCUPANCY: A single structure housing more than one type of retail business, 135 office or commercial venture and generally under one ownership and control. 136 BUILDING, SINGLE OCCUPANCY: A building or structure with one major enterprise, generally 137 under one ownership. A building is considered to be"single occupancy"if: 138 A. It has only one occupant;and 139 B. It has no wall in common with another building:and 140 C. It has no part of its roof in common with another building. 141 142 BUSINESS FACADE: That portion of an exterior building wall owned or leased by a business. 143 *** 144 CANOPY, BUILDING: A rigid multi-sided structure covered with fabric, metal or other material and 145 supported by a building at one or more points or extremities and by columns or posts embedded in the 146 ground at other points or extremities. Canopies shall not extend above any adjacent parapet or roof of 147 supporting building. 148 CANOPY, FREESTANDING. A rigid multi-sided structure covered with fabric, metal or other 149 material and supported by columns or posts embedded in the ground. 150 *** 151 COPY. The graphic content of a sign surface in either permanent or removable letter,pictographic, 152 symbolic,or alphabetic form. 153 *** 154 • 155 stfuetufe. 156 *** 157 ILLUMINATION, EXTERNAL: An artificial light source located outside of the sign and directed 158 towards the sign for purposes of illumination. 159 ILLUMINATION, INTERNAL: A light source that is concealed or contained within the sign and 160 becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface. 161 ILLUMINATION, TUBE: A light source supplied by a tube which is bent to form letters, symbols, or 162 other shapes. Tube illumination does not include exposed fluorescent lights. 163 *** 164 SIGN: Any medium, including merchandise, its structure and component parts, which is used or 165 intended to be used to attract attention to the subject matter for advertising purposes. Signs do not 166 include sculptures, wall paintings, murals, collages, and other design features determined to be public 167 art by the City. 168 GROUND-SIGN,GROUND: . Any sign other than a 169 freestanding pole sign, in which the sign is in contact with or close to the ground, has a solid base 170 anchor, and is independent of any other structure. 9/8/97 14 irr' II/r' ATTACHMENT A 171 PROD SIGN, PROJECTING: A sign other than a wall sign which projects from and is 172 supported by a wall of a building or structure:, and does not extend above any adjacent parapet or roof 173 of the supporting building. 174 *** 175 SIGN, TRADITIONAL MARQUEE: A sign typically associated with movie theaters, performing arts 176 theaters, and theatrical playhouses. The sign is attached flat against and parallel to the surface of a 177 marquee structure. In addition, a changeable copy area is included where characters, letters, or 178 illustrations can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign. 179 SIGN, UNDER MARQUEE: A lighted or unlighted display attached to the 180 underside of a marquee protruding over public or private sidewalks. Under marquee signs may also be 181 called`under awning"or"under canopy"signs. 182 *** 183 STREET FRONTAGE: 184 , 185 That side of a lot abutting on a public right-of-way, but excluding 186 the side of a lot which abuts a limited access highway, and excluding alleys. 187 *** 188 189 B. Measurements. 190 1. Height: Measured as the distance fromgrade,unless otherwise designated,to the top of 191 the sign or sign structure. 192 2. Sign Area: A measurement of the total area of a sign visible from any one 193 viewpoint or direction, excluding the sign support structure, architectural 194 embellishments,or framework which contains no written copy, or which does not form 195 part of the sign proper or of the display. Freestanding letters or characters, where no 196 background is specially provided, shall be measured by determining the smallest 197 rectangle or polygon which encloses the extreme limits of the shapes to be used. 198 199 4-20-3 PERMITS,BONDS,APPLICATIONS,FEES AND INSPECTIONS: 200 *** 201 C. Exceptions: The following shall not require a sign permit. These exceptions shall not be 202 construed as relieving the owner of any sign from the responsibility of its erection, maintenance 203 and compliance with any other law or ordinance regulating the same. 204 2. Painting, repainting or cleaning of an advertising structur 205 shall not be considered an erection or alteration 206 which requires sign permit unless a structural or electrical change is made. 207 *** 208 ( 18. Awning, canopy,and marquee structures having no signage. 9/8/97 15 vow ATTACHMENT A 209 D. Permit Fees: At the time of issuing a permit to erect or install a sign or device controlled by this 210 Code,the Building Official shall collect a fee computed on the basis of the following: 211 9. For City Center sign modifications per Section 4-20-12H4,the application fee shall be 212 one hundred dollars ($100). 213 4-20-4 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION: 214 B. Construction: 215 *** 216 3. Restrictions on Combustible Materials: Freestanding and wall signs may be 217 constructed of any material meeting the requirements of this Code. Combination signs, 218 roof signs and signs on marquees shall be .constructed of incombustible materials, 219 except as provided in paragraph 4 below. Projecting signs and under awning. under 220 canopy, or under marquee signs may be constructed of any material meeting the 221 requirements of this Code, including fire resistive treated wood. No combustible 222 materials other than approved plastics shall be used in the construction of electric signs. 223 (Ord. 3719,4-11-83) 224 *** 225 D. Obstruction of Official Sign, Signal or Device. No sign or sign structure shall be erected in 226 such a manner as to confine or obstruct the view or interpretation of any official traffic sign, 227 signal or device. 228 4-20-5 PROJECTING-SIGNS PROJECTING INTO SETBACKS AND RIGHTS-OF-WAY: 229 A. Projecting-sSigns projecting into setbacks or rights-of-way shall be designed in accordance with 230 the requirements specified in Section 4-20-4. 231 B. Projection and Clearance: 232 1. Projection into setbacks. 233 a. Signs may project within a legal setback a maximum of six feet(6'). 234 b. Ground signs which are six(6)feet or less in height may be installed within the 235 front yard setback in the landscape strip; provided, that the area described in 236 Section 4-20-8A6 is kept clear. 237 2. Projection into Rights-of-Way. 238 a. Where a legally constructed awning, canopy, or marquee exists which in itself 239 complies with the provisions of the Renton Building Code, an "under marquee" 240 sign, no larger than twelve inches (12") high by seventy two inches (72") long 241 by ten—twelve inches (4012") thick, may be suspended below the awning, 242 canopy, or marquee, provided the bottom of the sign is at least eight feet (8') 243 above the surface of the public or private sidewalk or walkway and the sign 244 does not extend beyond the awning,canopy,or marquee. 9/8/97 16 ter► . . ATTACHMENT A 245 b. In the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries defined in Section 4-20-12H, 246 under marquee signs may not exceed a maximum square footage of six (6) 247 square feet, with a maximum sign thickness of twelve inches (12"). The 248 bottom of the sign shall be at least eight feet(8')above the surface of the public 249 or private sidewalk or walkway. and the sign shall not extend beyond the 250 awning. canopy.or marquee. 251 c. Under marquee signs shall be limited to one such sign per entrance for each 252 business establishment. Under marquee signs may also be called "under 253 awning"or"under canopy"signs. 254 255 of he-erection. 256 43. All signs erected above or below a marquee which do not meet the requirements of 257 Section 4-20-6A shall comply with the requirements of this Section. 258 34. Signs and supporting sign structures shall-net-may project within the public right-of- 259 way, as follows: 260 a. Wall Sign. The thickness of that portion of a wall sign which projects over 261 public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve inches (12"). (Ord. 3719,4-11-83) 262 b. Marquees and the attached or associated signs may extend over the right-of- 263 way according to the terms of the adopted Uniform Building Code. 264 c. City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries. In the City Center Sign Regulation 265 Boundaries defined in Section 4-20-12H, the following signs may project into 266 the public right-of-way: 267 (1) Wall Sign. The thickness of that portion of a wall sign which projects 268 over public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve inches(12"). 269 (2) Projecting Sign. A projecting sign may extend over the public right-of- 270 way no more than four(4)feet from the wall it is mounted on. No sign 271 shall extend into the public right-of-way to within less than two(2) feet 272 of the curbline. 273 (3) Awnings. Building Canopies and Marquees. Awnings. building 274 canopies. and marquees and the attached or associated signs may 275 extend over the right-of-way according to the terms of the adopted 276 Uniform Building Code. 277 C. Name and Date of Sign Erector. All projecting signs, and signs which project into public 278 rights-of-way. shall have affixed thereon the name of the sign erector and the date of the 279 erection. 280 4-20-6 AWNINGS, CANOPIES,AND MARQUEES 281 A. Signs may be placed on, attached to or constructed in a marquee. Such signs, over public or 282 private property, shall for the purpose of determining projection, clearance,height and material, 9/8/97 17 law Iwo ATTACHMENT A 283 be considered part of and shall meet the requirements for a marquee as specified in the adopted' 284 edition of the Uniform Building Code. (Ord. 4172, 9-12-88) 285 B. Signs may be painted, printed, or affixed upon awnings or canopies. Awnings and canopies 286 shall meet the applicable provisions of the adopted edition of the Uniform Building Code. 287 4-20-7 ELECTRIC SIGNS AND ILLUMINATION: 288 A. Electric signs shall be constructed of incombustible materials, except as specified in Section 4- 289 20-4. The enclosed shell of electric signs shall be watertight, excepting that service holes fitted 290 with covers shall be provided into each compartment of such signs. 291 B. Installation: 292 1. Installation: Electrical equipment used in connection with display signs shall be 293 installed in accordance with local ordinances regulating electrical installation. 294 2. Erector's Name: Every electric sign projecting over any street or alley or public place 295 shall have the name of the sign erector and date of erection. Such name and date shall 296 be of sufficient size and contrast to be readable from a reasonable distance. Failure to 297 provide such name and date shall be grounds for rejection of the sign by the Building 298 Official. (Ord. 2504, 9-23-69) 299 3. Label Required: All electric signs shall bear the label of an approved testing agency. 300 C. Unless specifically restricted, signs may be internally or externally illuminated, or have tube 301 illumination. 302 4-20-8 PROHIBITED SIGNS AND DEVICES, UNAUTHORIZED SIGNS, AND NON- 303 CONFORMING SIGNS: 304 A. Prohibited Signs. The following signs or devices are specifically prohibited: 305 *** 306 3. Animated,revolving,blinking and flashing signs as follows: 307 a. All of the following signs within seventy five feet (75) of the public right-of- 308 way with any of the following features: animated, revolving more than eight 309 (8) revolutions per minute, blinking and flashing. Exceptions are public 310 service signs, such as those which give the time,temperature and/or humidity. 311 b. In the City Center,all of the following signs with any of the following features: 312 animated, revolving, blinking and flashing. Exceptions are public service 313 signs, such as those which give the time,temperature and/or humidity. 314 *** 315 316 8. Signs over public right-of-way other than wall-signs specified in Section 4-20-5B, signs I 317 per Section 4-20-9B, City-sponsored signs and public service signs per Section 4-20- 318 3C.14, 15,and 1 , . 319 *** 9/8/97 18 ATTACHMENT A 320 11. Roof signs within the City Center Sign Regulation Area (Section 4-20-12H1) shall be 321 prohibited. 322 *** 323 C. Closure of Business: Upon the closure and vacation of a business or activity,the owner of said 324 business or activity shall have ninety (90) days from the date of closure to remove all signs 325 relating to said business and activity. If the owner of said business or activity fails to remove 326 said signs within the designated time period, then the owner of the property upon which said 327 signs are located shall remove said signs within one hundred twenty (120) days of said closure 328 and vacation of premises. 329 D. Non-Conforming Signs. Any non-conforming signage which was erected prior to the effective 330 date of this Ordinance ( ), or which was erected legally in accordance with the 331 provisions of the sign ordinance in effect at the time of erection, or which has a valid building 332 permit from the City may remain in use subject to the following: 333 1. The changing of advertising copy or message thereon is permitted provided no 334 structural or electrical alteration is made,and provided a sign permit is obtained by the 335 existing business. 336 2. The sign shall be kept in a safe condition. Nothing in this Chapter shall prevent the 337 strengthening or restoring to a safe condition of any portion of a sign declared unsafe 338 by a proper authority. Legal non-conforming signage is subject to all requirements of 339 this Code regarding safety,maintenance,and repair. 340 3. The cost of alterations of a legal nonconforming sign shall not exceed an aggregate cost 341 of fifty percent(50%)of the value of the sign,based upon its replacement value,unless 342 the amount over fifty percent (50%) is used to make the sign more conforming. 343 Alterations shall not result in or increase any nonconforming condition. 344 4. The reconstruction, repairing, rebuilding and continued use of a nonconforming sign 345 damaged by fire, explosion, or act of God, subsequent to the effective date of these 346 regulations ( ),may be allowed as follows: the work shall not exceed fifty 347 percent (50%) of its replacement value of the sign at the time such damage occurred, 348 otherwise, any restoration or reconstruction shall conform to the regulations and 349 standards specified in this Chapter. 350 4-20-13PUBLIC ART EXEMPTION: 351 A. Applicability: 352 1. Objects of art are exempt from the requirements of the City's Sign Code when: 353 a. Sited in a manner as to be readily accessible to pedestrians for passive viewing; 354 b. Sited in a manner so as not to unduly divert the attention of motorists from the 355 roadway; 356 c. Stationary and do not revolve or otherwise move; 357 d. Not illuminated; 9/8/97 19 • • Nose Nisse ATTACHMENT A 358 e. In good taste and reasonably reflect acceptable community values; 359 f. Of sufficient durability so as to have a life expectancy of at least ten (10) 360 years; 361 g. Not used or referred to in the media or by the owners of the premises or 362 operators of businesses contained thereon for business advertising purposes. 363 2. "Objects of art" for the purposes of this Section shall include, but not be limited to, 364 sculptures, wall paintings, murals, collages or banners by artists recognized by the 365 Renton Municipal Arts Commission and when consistent with guidelines, if any, 366 established by the Renton Municipal Arts Commission. 367 B. Application Procedure: 368 1. Before a proposed object of art may be exempted from the City's Sign Code, the 369 property owner or his/her representative shall apply for and be granted a public art 370 exemption certificate by the City. Applicants must submit an application with the 371 appropriate filing fees according to the City's established fee schedule, to the 372 Development Services Division of the Department of Planning/Building/Public Works. 373 The application shall include five (5) sets of photographs, scaled drawings, and/or 374 three-dimensional (3-D) depictions of the proposed objects/surfaces to be exempted, a 375 biographical sketch of the artist, and appropriate site plans and wall elevations 376 depicting the location of the objects of art. 377 2. If the City determines that there is no issue as to the artistic merit of the proposed 378 object, then the City may issue the applicant a public art exemption certificate. 379 Appeals from administrative decisions may be filed as referenced in Section 4-20-1C2. 380 3. If the City determines that there is an issue as to the artistic merit of the object, then 381 upon receipt of a completed application the Development Services Division shall 382 forward the application to the Renton Municipal Arts Commission for review and 383 recommendation and shall notify the applicant of the date the application was 384 transferred to the Commission. The Renton Municipal Arts Commission, following 385 adopted procedures, shall review and transmit to the Development Services Division a 386 recommendation on the application not later than ninety(90) forty-five (45) days from I 387 the date of acceptance of a complete application, in accordance with the following 388 procedures: 9/8/97 20 • 4oure *NO ATTACHMENT A 469 e l perm t p idea Sectio _a-20 10 of this Chap te_ and off 470 signs-are-prohibited. 471 472 . 473 4-31-14: FREEWAY/ARTERIAL STREET SETBACK RESTRICTIONS • 474 475 476 a ae e€ to ee -a a g=mod uses,a e-p e- eF 477 478 SGNPRSTF.DOC 9/8/97 23 • ,ai✓ ATTACHMENT B-i k. . • •(i 4 ' . Sc'H N'S 3t./;1-tTN SrN -- + �esS DELI .a CR it: RELICS NrIcQuCS I JANT & PA j n �Yi� �p�]S�UJI�DFIouIE :�; PasT Oc.F.ICE b f' `ZRdPt+tES �SY Gs ito 1 t __..€c.....IRE.,rror) col tJ-r 5T rn Fl 4 7>}rrb5 1 = • • • • • • 1. :- 1 • • • t )42••••••••w. . . • low Noiro ATTACHMENT B-2 •,,:- •.-t:,,,..., , ,e •-t, ._41 fillbsor ails I., ,,,,, i_ , -------• 1 ---.., ... _ biurd -r -.4 •-1- - es-i -, IIII% • I.1 i I '1 1 1-t= 4 • . IIP 1.11. :t . i '-, :. 4At' : 1 • I.:, 1 .• . .- ----- - • ... :: - g.'",-; i•-: ..-..‘ .---' -... , ! :_;I:0-.):. 616 ' - -- . 1 .4't..,-..f.••'-' -.1 i • thiii. -.. - • - --,-. • ): , ..,,....,.....,.........,... .....lir....i. - ,.4,; -r• , 'I.' ii . • • .' eir-1,t,.., f. ... ,,-.411 ih... . • --1, „ wit : ••. I, -.7.'"?-- ' T it" . - ' .,, -7-J'''''' • , '• t.7:' '1 i'' -11,4•4;--' .4 '' 11- -4406. 2_1.l'. 0 ..,..t ,:.14.---,111.1-f. '-:._,-, ;,,,r.,-.--.... .•.;, ......-e,•- : '. ., •-, , • .. ,m,:-,,I.,.,.5: `1,1,,„ , ) - . ,• • -.•.: "..'Z'..: ,,ri . \1 • ' ' -) . ii%...-- I _.....N-•,. .•_-26/-.L'N. ....A.-,i-4.0— i•-•••• .- • ------ • i-r ' 1 ,-. •J. - ., . . ••• --- '•.:, ' it . )1.. . = - -1 • c;', A?. ,,,4i A - .- — • ' • :iz, -,.?t, f41411,4,4,/,1"k'. • - ..,..,1 -;••;;;%-v-.-....„; . ..-...;_,-.4.- . ,, -.:( • -..., ,,,,.:4.,...•i7Z:A"'!,.'!;'• '.- ". .".•.' .,* - •.I; . :;' ;- !.;'•.--1; • 1:-,.2.7." ,7f.:.-..;41..:;‘,7,:....,,c., .. a . •4•• %, ,,. ,Viii!.."%i 1••••••fr;e7 . ... ' . -- -,•••••,.• •-i,•:•!.---:ff._,a-.- -:., .. -:,-- • : } 40,74‘,"•-..,_...-. 1i, " •,,.-i...ir• '-9 SN:< ,--• .,,-;.... P.. iiii• '-4. ArP:7-.W. ..0••• ..- . ‘•-4-1 1' ,1 .•:0:- :,ii . 4' . • - • - ---."-- ',A,..• . •.0: • l'.-" 4 . • • , .., - ••.!'7.-:.,%1..i• .. 41.i.... .. _ — — - -4 • • • • 4 war ATTACHMENT C +°1 11* PRELIMINARY DRAFT PROPOSED SIGN INCENTIVE SUMMARY Encouraged Sian Design Bonus/Incentive 1. No internally lit signs • 15% size increase for each wall, projecting, awning/canopy/marquee, ground, or multi- occupancy/multiple building complex sign. -OR • 30% size increase, combining allowed sign area resulting in one large sign, applicable to wall, projecting, awning/canopy/marquee, ground or multi-occupancy/multiple building complex signs. -OTHER POSSIBILI'1mS- • 50% increase in sign size on awnings or canopies, where awning or canopy signs (not internally lit) are the only type utilized by the business. 2. Coordinated Sign Program for two or more • Increased number of wall or projecting signs businesses within permitted size, by combining allowed sign area. -OR- • Up to 20% of sign area may be animated, excludes lettering. -OTHER POSSIBILI'imS • In addition to increased number of wall or projecting signs, also allow 50% increase in size of signs. • A-frame signs 3. Other Suggestions? • WK2AGEN.DOC\ ATTACHMENT D Projecting Sign (over public R—O—W) ig (NOTE: The required clearance for a projecting sign is s proposed as 8 feet minimum. The example shows a 10 foot 1_ clearance. ) Wall Signs s 85.uo• ......................................................... . s 28-00• s 100.00• SIG\ SIZE STANDARDS cicit O, Planning and Technical Services 's l` Planning/Bulding/Public Works L Grueter, O. Dennison +4;710 1 July 1997 4 Nov vise ATTACHMENT E CHANGES TO PROPOSED CITY CENTER SIGN REGULATIONS Following is a list of the code changes made in response to public and staff input, and for clarification. Since July 10, 1997(Public Workshop Preliminary Draft Version) • Modify description of City Center sign boundaries at lines 14 and 15 to say 160 feet north of S. Third Street. The previous 155 feet number was based upon a GIS estimate. 160 feet is based upon Assessor Maps. There have been no changes to map itself. • The map has been inserted into the text to be codified together with the text description. • Clarify that corner tenants in multi-tenant buildings or multiple building complexes can have one wall (or projecting, or awning) sign on their street frontage and one for their business facade that orients to the complex. For example, a corner tenant in a "strip" style complex could have a wall sign on a facade which faces the street, and another wall sign over their facade which faces an internal parking lot. • Projecting signs are allowed as before, but cannot be internally illuminated. They may be unlit, externally illuminated, or have tube illumination. • Category C secondary signs are not limited to walls having public entrances. Secondary sign sizes are increased to 25 square feet based upon the width of the business facade. A maximum of 2 secondary signs will be allowed. It has been clarified that the restriction that these signs be externally illuminated means that they can be unlit, externally illuminated, or have tube illumination. They may not be internally illuminated, as was the intent in the preliminary draft. • Category C multiple business directory signs would be allowed on walls which don't have Category A or B signs,instead of on any walls with a public entrance. • The height of freestanding signs was increased to 20 feet. • The standards for freestanding and ground signs now make reference to the setback requirements of the Zoning Code. • A clarification was made in the text to indicate that Category A wall signs and Category B projecting signs are to be placed on a wall with street frontage, or if in a multi-tenant building or multiple building complex,above the business facade. This has been the intent all along. • A provision which indicated the allowable wall sign area for two or more wall signs cannot be combined into a larger sign has been deleted. Based upon the wall sign formula and the requirement that the wall sign be attached to the facade it is associated with, someone could not combine the area of two or more wall signs into one. • The standard that an under marquee sign can only be 12 inches thick was repeated in the standards table on page 8 from Section 4-20-12B2. • Modifications would be reviewed by the Development Services Director instead of the Department Administrator. The purpose section addresses the issue raised at the second workshop about trading a freestanding sign for a wall sign to be placed upon a second floor tenant space. Review criteria have been streamlined. The maximum increase in sign size (wall, awning/canopy/marquee, A NNW 41410" ATTACHMENT E projecting,and secondary signs)allowed through a modification would be 25%instead of 50%. An application fee of$100 for modifications has been added. • Sign incentives have been deleted. • The exemption for signs inside buildings has been put in its own section in 4-20-1 instead of in the permit exception section in 4-20-3. • After the definition of building canopy, a definition of freestanding canopy has been added (e.g. gas station canopies). • The definition of copy has been added from a model sign code. Copy means both lettering and graphics. The term "copy" is used for awning/canopy/marquee signs. For these signs, the copy area is limited to 50 s.f. • The measurement of sign area indicates that supporting structures are not included in the calculation. It has been clarified that this means support structures which are not part of the sign proper,or part of the display. • There would no longer be an exception from permit requirements to change the face of a sign. Although staff had considered charging no fees for a change of sign face, the draft proposal would require that regular sign permit fees be paid. Staff will have to review the applications for a change of face,and the dimensions of all signs on the site when a sign permit is requested. • In section 4-20-5, lines 262 and 263 were added to clarify that marquees are still allowed over the right-of-way City-wide. • The ban on animated, revolving, and flashing signs is restricted to the City Center, and doesn't apply City-wide. • At close of business,the status quo would be retained. All signs would be required come down at close of business;however,this would be enforced on a complaint-only basis. • For non-conforming signs, the allowance for repair up to 50% of the value of the sign would be based upon replacement value,not assessed or appraised value. • It has been clarified that the City Center sign standards apply to non-residential uses. Other residential, church and school occupancies would utilize the sign standards found in Section 4-20- 12B. Since August 21, 1997(City Council Transmittal of Staff Revised Draft) • The definition of tube illumination has been clarified to exclude exposed fluorescent lights because it is possible, although uncommon, to bend them into "u" shapes. It was intended that tube illumination allow for neon or neon-like substitutes (e.g. fiber optic tubing which looks like neon), and not fluorescent lights. CHGLIST.DOC 2 rrr rCY (II.: .!!!_.,) 0 Marilyn Petersen g City Clerk (Ifiv OF RENTON You are invited ! SEP 0 21997 RECEIVED ±iV cLEwS OFFICE What: Sign Code Open House about amendments to the Downtown Renton Sign Code When: Wednesday, September 10th 7:3 0 - 9:30 A.M.; 11 :3 0 A.M. - 1 :30 P.M.; and 4:00 - 7:00 P.M. Drop in anytime during these hours Where: 800 South Third Street (northeast corner of South Third Street and Williams Avenue) Refreshments provided The City of Renton is preparing an ordinance to regulate signs differently for the Downtown (also called the "City Center") than other commercial areas. The purpose is to recognize the unique character of the City Center. This meeting is the third public forum in a series to provide public input into the formulation of new sign requirements. Drop in any time at the hours listed above to ask City staff about the revised draft sign regulations, or leave any comments you may have. Please call the Lisa Grueter at 277-5578 about the open house, or to place your name on the mailing list. SIGNWK3.DOC1 hommommilimmiiimmimmir Noe *011, TABLE 1: CURRENT AND PROPOSED SIGN REGULATIONS-CITY CENTER EXISTING PROPOSED Business Signs(Choose One): Category A(Choose One): • Freestanding • Freestanding • Roof • Ground • Ground • Wall (New roof or combination signs not allowed) • Projecting(not allowed over ROW) • Combination (combines features of pole, Number. 1 per street frontage for single occupancy building projecting and roof sign) (frcestdg• corner lot only), or multi-occupancy building,or multiple building complex.Freestanding and ground signs max.of 2. Number. Allowed to have 1 per street frontage per Size: Freestanding and ground-1 and 1/2 s.f per lineal ft.of street business. Shopping centers can have one per street frontage,max.25 s.f.per face,total 50 s.f. Wall-1 and 1/2 s.f per frontage. lineal ft.of building frontage,max.of 100 s.f. Size: 1 and 1/2 s.f per lineal ft. of street frontage. Height: 20 ft.freestanding;5 ft.ground. Wall sign placement max. Max. 150 s.f per face,max.300 s.f total all faces. 25 ft.high from grade. Height: Freestanding, projecting, or combination- AND 40 ft. high or height of zone. Roof signs 20 ft. Category B(Choose One): above roof. Ground sign definition limits height to • Projecting(would be allowed over ROW) 6 ft. • Awning/Canopy/Marquee Sign AND Number. 1 per ground-level business for each facade fronting a • Wall Signs public street. And, 1 per ground-level tenant in a multi-occupancy Number Not limited. building or multiple building complex. Size:20%of building facade to which it is attached. Size: Projecting- 12 s.f per face,24 s.f total;cannot be internally lit. Awning/canopy/marquee sign -50 s.f. Traditional marquee- AND 150 s.f per face,300 s.f.total. • Marquee Signs Height: Projecting-max. 25 ft. above grade with 8 ft. clearance. Number: Not limited. Awning/canopy-structure height of 10 ft., placed min. 8 ft. above sidewalk. Marquee-per UBC. Size: Size of structure based on the UBC. No standards regarding sign size. Awnings have been AND interpreted to be similar to marquees although there Category C(can have any,or all,of the following): is no specific allowance. • Under Awning/Canopy/Marquee signs AND • Secondary wall,projecting,or awning signs,not internally lit • Under Marquee Signs • Multi-occupancy bldg./multiple building complex wall sign number. 1 per entrance per business. Number Under awning/canopy/marquee sign- 1 per ground-level business per public entrance. Secondary sign -Max. of 2; located Size: 1 ft.high x 6 ft.long. on a business facade with no Category A,B,or other secondary sign. Height: Minimum 8 ft.clearance over sidewalk. Multi-occupancy building/multiple building complex sign - 1 per building facade with no Category A/B sign. Abbreviations: Size: Under awning/canopy/marquee sign-6 s.f. Secondary-wall s.f.=square feet or awning sign 1 s.f.per lineal ft.of business facade,max.25 s.f.,or ft. =foot or feet projecting sign, max. 6 s.f. Multi-occupancy building/multiple building complex - 100 s.f; size icstiicted by 6 inch letter/logo ROW=right-of-way height for each business listed. UBC=Uniform Building Code Height: Under awning/canopy/marquee sign - 8 ft. min. above sidewalk. Secondary or Multi-occupancy building/multiple building complex-25 ft.above grade. Revised Draft Sign Regulations August 1997 ftliv PROPOSD CITY CENTER SIGN REGULATION BOUNDARY mu imi 1.... of; .711. L-3 _=' 'If ,(1) —=-J Airport Way 0 so ..... .1 - ! tic -: Limm N=REamMTIED IMiIiNi 1`II. =E C' •. 1: r L 2 r d 41t HI iiIIM4 • IIMMIM i11, I'___ r CV fir i IIIII lb I la 4 1 mil ill ___,S • ---\ =_____ 1„,, 4 2nd Stan in S 2nd St , 4 ``• — ! \ • t S 3rd St- _ ; dug a111 1 I I //-- 1 I I 1 I H I III P Inn ,iti� .�� ' cn E. ; r, ig_ / 4th P1 1=ow ►17 .awe: II am, 1 /'t 0•*_.4A li I PIP ...11;11_ K1/41,a i own_-,= NowU S -5:1 L S t y --�`- 11 -4-e- ,...--_ --- ---— I I I 1//77f ir- -4E' _ o�Y Planningand Technical Services �•% Proposed Boundary + tpt Planning/Building/Public Works L. Gruefer, O. Dennison, R. MacOnie �4'N•TO 2 July 1997 0 600 1 ,200 - - 1 :7,200 Iraw Mandi Roberts Jennifer Jorgeson Fashions by Freila OTAK Transportation Division 241 S. 4th Place, Ste. C 620 Kirkland Way#100 City of Renton Renton,WA 98055 Kirkland, WA 98033 John Painter George Mehrens Beverly Franklin 537 Smithers Avenue S. 316 S.Tobin PO Box 685 Renton,WA 98055 Renton,WA 98055 Renton,WA 98057 Betty Nokes Larry Brown Dennis&Lois Hyland Renton Chamber Star Properties 530 Wells Avenue S. 300 Rainier Avenue N. 261 SW 41st Renton,Wa 98055 Renton, WA 98055 Renton,WA 98055 Gary Chrisman Fay Moss Suzanne Thompson 309 Wells Avenue S. 356 Renton Avenue S. McClendon's Renton,WA 98055 Renton,WA 98055 710 S.2nd. Renton,WA 98055 Bryson Huie Mike/Kay McCawley Alicia Lynch Transportation Division 505 Williams Avenue N. Holiday Inn City of Renton Renton,WA 98055 1 South Grady Way Renton,WA 98055 Bill Gaw Harry Blencoe Elva Thompson 413 S. 3rd 112 Monterey Dr.N.E. 709 S. 3rd Renton,WA 98055 Renton,WA 98055 Renton,WA 98055 David Mason Cheri Reynolds Council Members 231 Williams Avenue S. 12448 83rd Avenue Renton,WA 98055 Seattle,WA 98178 Charmaine Adsero Hadi Fakharjadeh Claudia Carlson 723 SW 10th St. #275 PO Box 78404 229 Wells Avenue S. Renton, WA 98055 Seattle,WA 98178 Renton,WA 98055 • Gary Slotnik Ken May Gina Kavesh 814 S. 3rd Street 214 Williams Avenue S. 724 S. 3rd Street Renton, WA 98055 Renton,WA 98055 Renton,WA 98055 Rebecca Lloyd Mitch Johnson Lori Langston 331 Smithers Avenue S. Safeway, Seattle Division Heath Signs Renton,WA 98055 PO Box 85001 1762 Airport Way S. Bellevue,WA 98015 Seattle,WA 98134 *eweNee Jim Hanson James Halverson Dan Fitner Development Services The Salvation Army Sound Mitsubishi PO Box 425 200 S. Grady Way Renton, WA 98057 Renton,WA 98055 Terry Sargent Arlene Allen Charles Doyle Pieces Quilt Shop Wells Street Espresso 300 S. 6th Street 332 Burnett Avenue S. 314 Williams-S. u5 S• Renton, WA 98055 Renton,WA 98055 Renton,WA 98055 Nancy Mendoza Ray DeJong Jon Pozega 5311 S.236th Street 1000 S. 2nd Avenue 3000 NE 4th Kent,WA 98032 Renton,WA 98055 Renton, WA 98056 • Jana Huerter Jim Shepherd Development Planning Kirk Newman PACCAR Facilities Director PO Box 1518 Community Services Bellevue, WA 98009 Don Daily American Drapery Daily Homes, Inc. 700 S. 3rd St 3316 Fuhrman Ave. E, Ste 100 Renton, WA 98055 Seattle, WA 98102 Hugh Krozier, Vice President Seafirst Bank,Renton,Branch 300 Burnett S. Renton, WA 98055 Don Brooker Cooks Chevron II Perfection Tire 201 S. Third 205 S.Logan Renton, Wa 98055 Renton, WA 98055 New CITY OF RENTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RENTON CITY COUNCIL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Renton City Council has fixed September 22, 1997, at 7:30 p.m. as the date and time for a public hearing to be held in the second floor Council Chambers of the Renton Municipal Building, 200 Mill Avenue South, Renton 98055, to consider the following: Sign Regulations in the Downtown Area (City Center) All interested persons are invited to attend the hearing and present oral or written comments in support or opposition to the proposal. The Municipal Building is fully accessible, and interpretive services for the hearing impaired will be provided upon prior notice. Please call 235-2501 for additional information or 277-4453 TDD. Marilyn J./fie; en City Clerk Published: South County Journal September 12, 1997 Mailed to Parties of Record 9/4/97 PROPO ;D CITY CENTER SIGN REGULATION BOUNDARY �_ F-- - > >. _ _� i Inc II -- - =gm useg 11INN I uu Airport i LE:=EEEIWay �`��� I� __ ` ♦ �C ..W2-rd 1 I1!i!1III !IiITIIII1lit .mi II 117.• /-- 4 IIIII IIIIIIIIIII ______ %� � 111111 : I___= ik 116 I IMI Mg 4 111.11 al mi ,\.% ffll it 11; II NI a ;\ �• 11' , am , 4 S 2nd St _ .2*•N I �° S 2nd St , Pk S 3rd S I _ ; ipzr wompovabliopul 1 I.zsl I J I . 1 H 119 111 ■ mu7 % � akilt V 0/°—— = M =TiE, _0 .v rdb ' - ,Ai E ' v _ Ea_ p-72 illia ---E i i 111 IQ EN on an.am MI Fir iii i am III re d to 4th r � ��.. ..,= per ,... maim Ism nMIMIum ; Mlu I r 111 ---/I _______ _______ ____ININ Mt= Min NNW C.) > S . .. ■u y// TETIw71S'/7 - Gti`Y 04, Planning and Technical Services Proposed Boundary ♦ £ ♦ Planning/Building/Public Works '� L. Grueter, O. Dennison, R. MacOnie �tN'c0$ 2 July 1997 0 600 1 ,200 1 :7,200 LOCATIONS OF POSTINGS DONE ON V Wici , 1997. 1. ,mot � ti 2. 711 1(.1)4evut 3. 1-el hilt '`2;et d CERTIFICATION STATE OF WASHINGTON) ss COUNTY OF KING ) I —fiEREBY CERTIFY THAT 3 COPIES OF THE ABOVE NOTICE WERE POSTED BY ME IN THREE OR MORE CONSPICUOUS PLACE$ ON THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED AND TWO COPIES WERE POSTED AT THE ,RENTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 200 MILL AVENUE S., RENTON, WA ON DATE OF gi o//7 . SIGNED IP\VNIkaN *111141bk SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN TO BEFORE ME this d� day of AM ' , 19 9 l Notary Public in and for the State of Washington, residing at �,Qc err 'too CITY OF RENTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RENTON CITY COUNCIL • NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Renton City Council has fixed September 22, 1997, at 7:30 p.m. as the date and time for a public hearing to be held in the second floor Council Chambers of the Renton Municipal Building, 200 Mill Avenue South, Renton 98055, to consider the following: 1. Sign Regulations in the Downtown Area (City Center) 2. Continuation of Moratorium on Issuance of Business Licenses for Card Rooms All interested persons are invited to attend the hearings and present oral or written comments in support or opposition to the proposals. The Municipal Building is fully accessible, and interpretive services for the hearing impaired will be provided upon prior notice. Please call 235-2501 for additional information or 277-4453 TDD. .tic/ Marilyn . P rsen City Clerk Published: South County Journal Sepember 12, 1997 Account No. 50640 lwrie ',go CITY OF RENTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RENTON CITY COUNCIL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Renton City Council has fixed September 22, 1997, at 7:30 p.m. as the date and time for a public hearing to be held in the second floor Council Chambers of the Renton Municipal Building, 200 Mill Avenue South, Renton 98055, to consider the following: Sign Regulations in the Downtown Area (City Center) All interested persons are invited to attend the hearing and present oral or written comments in support or opposition to the proposal. The Municipal Building is fully accessible, and interpretive services for the hearing impaired will be provided upon prior notice. Please call 235-2501 for additional information or 277-4453 TDD. 41) Marilyn J.0'i edif en City Clerk Published: South County Journal September 12, 1997 Account No. 50640 NNW CITY OF RENTON CITY OF RENTON AUG 2 61997 PLANNINGBUILDING/PUBLIC WORKS RECEIVED MEMORANDUM TY CLERK'S OFFICE DATE: August 21, 1997 TO: Kathy Keolker-Wheeler, President City Council Members VIA: Mayor Jesse Tanner FROM: Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator Cr Planning/Building/Public Works Department STAFF CONTACT: Mike Kattermann (ext. 6190) SUBJECT: Transmittal-Revised Draft Sign Code for Downtown Area (City Center) As described at the Committee-of-the-Whole briefing held August 4, 1997, modifications to the Preliminary Draft Sign Code Proposal for the Downtown Area (City Center) were anticipated based upon public, Council and staff input. Through internal review, City staff have prepared a Revised Draft Sign Regulation Proposal. Environmental review is being conducted based upon this latest draft. A list of the key changes is provided as Attachment A. A copy of the proposed code language is provided as Attachment B. These items are being sent to the Council ahead of the normal agenda packet for your next briefing because of Council's request to review the proposed ordinance during the environmental review period. A full issue paper which describes more of the reasons for the new approaches will be provided for your next briefing in September. We anticipate scheduling a public open house in early September (tentatively September 10, 1997). A briefing for the Committee-of-the-Whole will be held on September 15, 1997 where we will discuss the Revised Draft in more detail with the Council, and any additional public comments received. A formal public hearing will be held on September 22, 1997. If you have any questions, please contact Mike Kattermann at 277-6190. Thank you. ccsgn818.doc t i ATTACHMENT A CHANGES TO PROPOSED CITY CENTER SIGN REGULATIONS Since July 10, 1997(Public Workshop Preliminary Draft Version) Following is a list of the code changes made in response to public and staff input, and for clarification. • Modify description of City Center sign boundaries at lines 14 and 15 to say 160 feet north of S. Third Street. The previous 155 feet number was based upon a GIS estimate. 160 feet is based upon Assessor Maps. There have been no changes to map itself. • The map has been inserted into the text to be codified together with the text description. • Clarify that corner tenants in multi-tenant buildings or multiple building complexes can have one wall (or projecting, or awning) sign on their street frontage and one for their business facade that orients to the complex. For example, a corner tenant in a "strip" style complex could have a wall sign on a facade which faces the street, and another wall sign over their facade which faces an internal parking lot. • Projecting signs are allowed as before, but cannot be internally illuminated. They may be unlit, externally illuminated,or have tube illumination. • Category C secondary signs are not limited to walls having public entrances. Secondary sign sizes are increased to 25 square feet based upon the width of the business facade. A maximum of 2 secondary signs will be allowed. It has been clarified that the restriction that these signs be externally illuminated means that they can be unlit, externally illuminated, or have tube illumination. They may not be internally illuminated,as was the intent in the preliminary draft. • Category C multiple business directory signs would be allowed on walls which don't have Category A or B signs, instead of on any walls with a public entrance. • The height of freestanding signs was increased to 20 feet. • The standards for freestanding and ground signs now make reference to the setback requirements of the Zoning Code. • A clarification was made in the text to indicate that Category A wall signs and Category B projecting signs are to be placed on a wall with street frontage, or if in a multi tenant building or multiple building complex,above the business facade. This has been the intent all along. • A provision which indicated the allowable wall sign area for two or more wall signs cannot be combined into a larger sign has been deleted. Based upon the wall sign formula and the requirement that the wall sign be attached to the facade it is associated with, someone could not combine the area of two or more wall signs into one. • The standard that an under marquee sign can only be 12 inches thick was repeated in the standards table on page 8 from Section 4-20-12B2. • Modifications would be reviewed by the Development Services Director instead of the Department Administrator. The purpose section addresses the issue raised at the second workshop about trading a freestanding sign for a wall sign to be placed upon a second floor tenant space. Review criteria have been streamlined. The maximum increase in sign size (wall, awning/canopy/marquee, i ATTACHMENT A projecting, and secondary signs)allowed through a modification would be 25%instead of 50%. An application fee of$100 for modifications has been added. • Sign incentives have been deleted. • The exemption for signs inside buildings has been put in its own section in 4-20-1 instead of in the permit exception section in 4-20-3. • After the definition of building canopy, a definition of freestanding canopy has been added(e.g. gas station canopies). • The definition of copy has been added from a model sign code. Copy means both lettering and graphics. The term "copy" is used for awning/canopy/marquee signs. For these signs, the copy area is limited to 50 s.f. • The measurement of sign area indicates that supporting structures are not included in the calculation. It has been clarified that this means support structures which are not part of the sign proper, or part of the display. • There would no longer be an exception from permit requirements to change the face of a sign. Although staff had considered charging no fees for a change of sign face, the draft proposal would require that regular sign permit fees be paid. Staff will have to review the applications for a change of face, and the dimensions of all signs on the site when a sign permit is requested. • In section 4-20-5, lines 262 and 263 were added to clarify that marquees are still allowed over the right-of-way City-wide. • The ban on animated, revolving, and flashing signs is restricted to the City Center, and doesn't apply City-wide. • At close of business,the status quo would be retained. All signs would be required come down at close of business;however,this would be enforced on a complaint-only basis. • For non-conforming signs, the allowance for repair up to 50% of the value of the sign would be based upon replacement value, not assessed or appraised value. • It has been clarified that the City Center sign standards apply to non-residential uses. Other residential, church and school occupancies would utilize the sign standards found in Section 4-20- 12B. CHGLIST.DOC 2 , , ATTACHMENT B 1 2 PROPOSED CITY CENTER SIGN CODE REGULATIONS 3 4 4-20-12H. City Center Sign Regulations 5 1. Applicability and Purpose. 6 a. Applicability. The sign standards of this subsection shall apply to the 7 property contained within the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries as 8 shown in Figure 1. generally described as including: land which is zoned 9 Center Downtown. excluding lots located on Logan Avenue South. north of 10 the intersection at Airport Way: land zoned Commercial Arterial which lies 11 east of Lake Avenue South. and between Tobin Street South and South 12 Second Street: and land zoned Commercial Arterial which lies between 13 South Second Street and South Third Place. and east of Rainier Avenue 14 South. excluding parcels which have frontage on Rainier Avenue South and 15 lie more than one hundred and sixty (160) feet north of South Third Street: 16 and land zoned Multi Family - Urban which lies between the Cedar River 17 and South Second Street. and between Houser Way South and South Fifth 18 Street. 19 FIGURE 1: CITY CENTER SIGN REGULATION BOUNDARIES Airport Wo v"'Liz] Er: 7.= z—g. —= MI 4p. Es == rig. sirrt : gym: EN :' 'Pli p iLlicii!!Il;iigjjj o min 1 J _M 'zs i itgS 2nd St 2 � s © of,,.�t,N. 1.19)11 , Rig mll ell Ell ttl SE 111 plf Ilfi� dIirlvimIII:. M! :xi M" .ES / �' ,u t ® nip :in ■:i ■ .r./AI II 1 g —� _T =P may' - / --ra rt ikA, 4t03\::::::3 ` _P. elt! _ Ii !=I11 IN 20 Qii es RF RE111 gl 21 b. Purpose. The purpose of the City Center Sign Regulations is to provide 22 sign standards and regulations which recognize and strengthen the unique 23 character of the City Center area businesses and streets, provide for 24 appropriate signage which contributes to the economic vitality of the area 25 and which complements its environment. and to enhance the pedestrian 26 orientation of the district. 8/21/97 1 j`'"` ATTACHMENT B 26 2. Type and Number of Signs Allowed-Non Residential Uses. 27 28 a. Non-residential uses (excluding residential occupancies, churches, and schools) 29 in the City Center Sign Regulation Area shall be subject to the sign standards 30 and regulations contained in Sections 4-20-12H2 through 4-20-12H4. 31 Residential occupancies,churches and schools in the City Center are subject to 32 the requirements of 4-20-12B. 33 34 b. Permanent Signs. 35 36 TYPE AND NUMBER OF PERMANENT SIGNS-NON-RESIDENTIAL USES 37 38 SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN CATEGORY A Freestanding OR Ground OR Wall Select only one of the following sign types: Number One(1)free- One(1)ground sign Each individual standing sign per per street frontage ground-level street frontage for for each single business may have each single occupancy building, one(1)wall sign for occupancy building multi-occupancy each business facade located on a corner building,or fronting on a public lot,multi- multiple building street. occupancy building, complex. The or multiple building maximum number In addition,in complex. The of signs is two(2) . multiple building maximum number complexes,or for of signs is two(2). multi-occupancy buildings each ground-level tenant with an exterior business facade may have one(1)wall sign to identify individual tenant spaces. Mix of options An applicant for a business having more than one street frontage may substitute an allowed Category A sign type for another Category A sign type;however,the maximum number of signs shall not be exceeded. For example,on a corner lot,an applicant may request one ground sign facing one street frontage,and one freestanding sign facing the other street frontage. 8/21/97 2 ATTACHMENT B 39 SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN CATEGORY B Projecting Sign, OR Awning Sign,or Select only one of the having no internal Canopy Sign,or illumination Marquee Sign,or following sign types. Traditional Allowed in addition Marquee Sign to signs of Category A. Number Each individual Each individual ground-level ground-level business may have business may have one(1)sign for one(1)sign for each business each business facade fronting on a facade fronting on a public street. public street. In addition,in In addition,in multiple building multiple building complexes,or for complexes,or for multi-occupancy multi-occupancy buildings each buildings each ground-level tenant ground-level tenant with an exterior with an exterior business facade may business facade may have one(1)sign to have one(1)sign to identify individual identify individual tenant spaces. tenant spaces. A series of awnings or canopies upon a single business and located on a single street frontage are considered as one awning or canopy. CATEGORY C Under Awning/ AND Secondary Wall, AND If applicable, Under Canopy/ Projecting,or Multi-Occupancy Allowed in addition A signs of Categories Under Marquee Awning Sign, Building,or to A and B: having no internal Multiple Building illumination Complex Wall Sign Number One(1)per ground- One(1)sign, One(1)per building level business per having no internal facade which does public entrance. illumination,per not contain any business facade other Category A,or which does not B sign. contain a Category A or B sign; maximum of two (2)secondary signs. 8/21/97 3 sae r.rr ATTACHMENT B 40 41 c. Temporary/Special Permit Signs. In addition to the permanent signs described 42 in Subsection H2b above,the following signs are allowed. 43 44 (1) Temporary Signs per Section 4-20-9 of this Chapter. 45 46 (2) Special Permit Signs per Section 4-20-10 of this Chapter. 47 48 3. Sign Dimensions/Additional Limitations: 49 SIGN DIMENSIONS AND ADDITIONAL LIMITATIONS 50 PERMANENT SIGNS MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) a. FREE- (1) Each sign (2) Twenty(20) (3) Setbacks shall (4) Minimum STANDING shall not feet,measured be consistent fifteen(15) exceed an area to the top of with the foot clearance greater than the sign or Zoning Code. above traffic one and one- sign structure, aisles and half(1-1/2) whichever is driveways. square feet for higher. each lineal foot of street frontage which the building or complex occupies up to a maximum of twenty-five (25)square feet per face; the maximum cumulative square footage of all faces of a sign is fifty (50)square feet. • 8/21/97 4 ATTACHMENT B 51 MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) b. GROUND (1) Each sign (2) Five(5)feet if (3) Setbacks shall shall not perpendicular be consistent exceed an area to the right-of- with the greater than way;four(4) Zoning Code, one and one- feet if the sign and Section 4- half(1-1/2) is not placed 20-5B1b. square feet for perpendicular each lineal to the right-of- foot of street way. Height frontage which is measured to the building or the top of the complex sign or sign occupies up to structure, a maximum of whichever is twenty five higher. (25) square feet per face; the maximum cumulative square footage of all faces of a sign is fifty (50) square feet. c. WALL (1) Each sign (2) The wall sign (3) The sign shall (6) When shall not shall be placed be mounted on projecting exceed an area on the facade or above the over a public greater than not more than business right-of-way one and one- twenty-five facade to (maximum half(1-1/21 (25)feet which it is twelve inches), square feet for above the associated. a minimum of each lineal grade, eight(8)feet foot of measured to (4) The wall sign clearance business the top of the shall be placed above the facade sig& on a business surface of the fronting a facade having sidewalk is street,up to street required. one hundred frontage;or.it (100)square shall be placed feet on or above maximum. the business entrance,if the 8/21/97 5 NW `00 ATTACHMENT B MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REOUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) WALL (cont.) business has an exterior facade which does not face a street,and the business is located in a multi-tenant building or multiple building complex. (5) The thickness of that portion of a wall sign which projects over a public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve (12)inches. d. PROJECT- (1) Projecting (2) Projecting (3) The sign shall (9) When ING signs are signs shall not be placed on a projecting allowed a be located business over a public maximum of more than facade having right-of--way, twelve(12) twenty-five street a minimum of square feet per (25)feet frontage:or..it eight(8)feet face:the above the shall be placed clearance maximum grade, on or above above the cumulative measured to the business surface of the square footage the top of the entrance, if the sidewalk is of all faces of sign or sign business has required. a sign is structure an exterior twenty four whichever is facade which (24)square higher. does not face a feet street,and the business is located in a multi-tenant building or multiple building 8/21/97 6 %10, *NO ATTACHMENT B MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) PROJECTING complex. cont. (4) Projecting signs shall not be internally illuminated. Such signs may be unlit, externally illuminated or have tube illumination. (5) The sign shall be no more than three(3) feet tall. (6) A projecting sign may extend over the public right-of-way by no more than four(4) feet from the wall it is mounted on. (7) The faces of a projecting sign shall be separated by a maximum of twelve(12) inches. (8) The sign shall be mounted on or above the business facade to which it is associated. 8/21/97 7 '141 '` ATTACHMENT B MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C & Section 4-20-5) e. AWNING (1) Awning, (3) Sign copy (9) Sign SIGN, Canopy, or shall only be structures CANOPY Marquee Sign: located on the shall be SIGN, A maximum vertical faces located a MARQUEE of fifty(50) of the awning, minimum of SIGN square feet of canopy.or eight(8)feet copy may marquee. above the appear on the surface of the vertical face (4) Maximum sidewalk. area. height/ Where under thickness of awning,under (2) Traditional awning/ canopy,or Marquee Sign: canopy with a under marquee The maxi- sign:ten(10) signs are mum copy feet. anticipated, area is one the clearance hundred fifty (5) Maximum should be (150) square height/ increased to feet per face; thickness of accommodate the cumulative marquee: in them as square footage accordance necessary. of all faces of with the a sign is three add hundred(300) edition of the square feet Uniform total. Building Code. (6) Building canopy poles shall not be placed in a manner which interferes with pedestrian or wheelchair travel upon a sidewalk. (7) Awnings, building canopies,and marquees and the attached or 8/21/97 8 ATTACHMENT B MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) AWNING SIGN, associated CANOPY SIGN, signs may MARQUEE SIGN extend over (cont.) the right-of- way according to the terms of the adopted Uniform Building Code. (8) The sign shall be mounted above the business facade to which it is associated. f. UNDER (1) Six(6)square (2) The sign shall (4) Minimum AWNING, feet. not extend eight(8)feet UNDER beyond the above the CANOPY, awning, surface of the UNDER canopy,or sidewalk. MARQUEE marquee to SIGN which it is attached. (3) The sign shall not be more than twelve (12)inches thick. 8/21/97 9 rrr wrr ATTACHMENT B 52 MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT_ AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C & Section 4-20-5) g. SECOND- (1) Secondary (3) Secondary (4) Secondary (8) When ARY SIGN Wall or wall or signs shall not projecting Awning Signs: projecting be located on over a public Each sign signs shall not a business right-of-way, shall not be located facade a minimum of exceed an area more than containing a eight(8)feet greater than twenty-five Category A or clearance one(1)square (25)feet B sign, or above the foot for each above the another surface of the lineal foot of grade, secondary entryway is business measured to sign. required. facade,up to the top of the maximum of sign or sign (5) Secondary twenty-five structure, signs shall not (25) square whichever is be internally feet. higher. illuminated. Such signs (2) Secondary may be unlit, Projecting externally Signs: illuminated or Maximum of have tube six(6)square illumination. feet. (6) Maximum height or thickness of awning with a sign: ten(10) feet. (7) Awning signs: Sign copy shall be located on the vertical faces of the awning. 8/21/97 10 ATTACHMENT B 53 MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN TYPE SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES LIMITATIONS (Refer also to Section 4-20-4C &Section 4-20-5) h. MULTI-OC- (1) The sign shall (2) The wall sign (3) The sign shall (4) When CUPANCY only contain shall be placed be located on a projecting OR the business on the facade business facade over a public MULTIPLE name and/or not more than which does not right-of-way., BUILDING logo of each twenty-five contain any a minimum of other Category COMPLEX development. (25)feet eight(8)feet SIGN Sign size is above the or B sign. clearance restricted by above the lettering measured to grade is height. The the top of the required. maximum sign. square footage limitation is one hundred (100)square feet. 54 55 3. Maximum Size of Lettering. 56 MAXIMUM LETTER HEIGHT DISTANCE OF SIGN FREESTANDING, AWNING SIGN/ MULTI- FROM RIGHT-OF- GROUND, WALL, CANOPY SIGN/ OCCUPANCY OR WAY(ROW) PROJECTING, MARQUEE SIGN MULTIPLE TRADITIONAL BUILDING MARQUEE SIGN COMPLEX SIGN Within fifty(50)feet of Twenty four(24)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches(applies ROW: to letters and logo) Between fifty(50)feet Thirty six(36)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches (applies and one hundred(100) to letters and logo) feet of the ROW: More than one hundred Forty eight(48)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches (applies (100)feet from the to letters and logo) ROW: 57 8/21/97 11 "' lare ATTACHMENT B 58 4. Sign Modification-City Center. 59 a. Authority and Purpose. The Development Services Director may grant a 60 modification from the sign standards for individual signs which do not meet the 61 specific provisions of the City Center sign standards when the proposed sign is 62 intended to accomplish one of the following purposes: 63 (1) Respond to the needs of the public in locating a business 64 establishment;or 65 (2) Assist business in contributing to the economic well-being of the 66 community;or 67 (3) Install a sign that is considered to be historic or of historic value by the 68 advertising industry or a recognized historic preservation organization, 69 provided that such entity was not involved in the use, design or 70 production of the proposed sign; or 71 (4) Result in a reduction of signs on a site;or 72 (5) Result in a reduction in the number of freestanding or ground signs 73 otherwise allowed; or 74 (5) Result in a coordinated sign plan for a multi tenant building or 75 multiple building complex. 76 b. Review Criteria. If the Development Services Director determines that the 77 intent of the proposed sign accomplishes one of the above purposes, the 78 Development Services Director may grant a modification request provided the 79 proposed sign also meets all of the following criteria: 80 (1) The modification will not create a significant adverse impact to other 81 property or improvements in the immediate vicinity of the subject 82 property;and 83 (2) The modification will not increase the number of signs allowed by this 84 Chapter or allow a type of sign which is prohibited by this Chapter in 85 Section 4-20-8A; and 86 (3) The modification will not increase the allowed height or area of any 87 wall, projecting, awning/canopy/marquee/traditional marquee, or 88 secondary sign by more than twenty-five percent(25%);and 89 (4) The modification will not increase the allowed height or area of any 90 freestanding or ground sign; and 91 (5) The modification does not create a public safety hazard. 92 c. Proposals which do not meet the purposes or criteria of subsections H4a and 93 H4b above,may be reviewed as variance applications as provided in Section 4- 94 20-1C2. 95 8/21/97 12 *iv ties, ATTACHMENT B 96 97 -RELATED AMENDMENTS - 98 (SOME AFFECT SIGN REGULATIONS CITY-WIDE) 99 100 4-20-1 TITLE,SCOPE AND ENFORCEMENT: 101 *** 102 B. Purpose, Scope and Exemptions from Sign Code Regulations: 103 1. Purpose. It is the purpose of this Code to provide a means of regulating signs so as to 104 promote the health, safety, morals, general welfare, social and economic welfare and 105 esthetics of the City. Signs are erected to provide information for the benefit and 106 convenience of pedestrians and motorists and should not detract from the quality of 107 urban environment by being competitive or garish. Signs should complement and 108 characterize the environment which they serve to give their respective areas a unique 109 and pleasing quality. 110 . The 111 regulations of this Code are not intended to permit any violations of any other lawful 112 ordinance. 113 building. 114 2. Scope. The purposes of this Chapter are implemented through the establishment of 115 standards for the type,placement, scale, and construction of signs which varies by use, 116 zoning district,or City Center sign district. 117 3. Exemption from Sign Code Regulations. This Code does not apply to any signs or sign 118 structures located within a building. 119 *** 120 4-20-2 DEFINITIONS,AND ABBREVIATIONS,AND MEASUREMENTS: 121 A. Definitions and abbreviations. 122 For the purpose of this Code, certain abbreviations,terms,phrases,words and their derivatives shall be 123 construed as specified in this Section. Words used in the singular include the plural, and the plural the 124 singular. Words used in the masculine gender include the feminine,and the feminine the masculine. 125 *** 126 AWNING: A shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a building. Awnings have 127 noncombustible frames, but may have combustible coverings. Awnings may be fixed, retractable, 128 folding or collapsible. Awnings shall not extend above any adjacent parapet or roof of supporting 129 building. 130 *** 131 BUILDING COMPLEX, MULTIPLE: A group of structures housing more than one type of retail 132 business,office or commercial venture and generally under one ownership and control. 133 *** 8/21/97 13 Now *so • ATTACHMENT B 134 BUILDING,MULTI-OCCUPANCY: A single structure housing more than one type of retail business, 135 office or commercial venture and generally under one ownership and control. 136 BUILDING, SINGLE OCCUPANCY: A building or structure with one major enterprise, generally 137 under one ownership. A building is considered to be"single occupancy"if. 138 A. It has only one occupant;and 139 B. It has no wall in common with another building;and 140 C. It has no part of its roof in common with another building. 141 142 BUSINESS FACADE: That portion of an exterior building wall owned or leased by a business. 143 *** 144 CANOPY, BUILDING: A rigid multi-sided structure covered with fabric, metal or other material and 145 supported by a building at one or more points or extremities and by columns or posts embedded in the 146 ground at other points or extremities. Canopies shall not extend above any adjacent parapet or roof of 147 supporting building. 148 CANOPY, FREESTANDING. A rigid multi-sided structure covered with fabric, metal or other 149 material and supported by columns or posts embedded in the ground. 150 *** 151 COPY. The graphic content of a sign surface in either permanent or removable letter, pictographic, 152 symbolic, or alphabetic form. 153 *** 154 • , 155 stFueture7 156 *** 157 ILLUMINATION, EXTERNAL: An artificial light source located outside of the sign and directed 158 towards the sign for purposes of illumination. 159 ILLUMINATION, INTERNAL: A light source that is concealed or contained within the sign and 160 becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface. 161 ILLUMINATION,TUBE: A light source supplied by a tube which is bent to form letters, symbols, or 162 other shapes. 163 *** 164 SIGN: Any medium, including merchandise, its structure and component parts, which is used or 165 intended to be used to attract attention to the subject matter for advertising purposes. Signs do not 166 include sculptures, wall paintings, murals, collages, and other design features determined to be public 167 art by the City. 168 GROUND-SIGN,GROUND: Any sign other than a 169 freestanding pole sign, in which the sign is in contact with or close to the ground, has a solid base 170 anchor, and is independent of any other structure. 8/21/97 14 "r tiurt ATTACHMENT B 171 SIGN, PROJECTING: A sign other than a wall sign which projects from and is 172 supported by a wall of a building or structure:, and does not extend above any adjacent parapet or roof 173 of the supporting building. 174 *** 175 SIGN, TRADITIONAL MARQUEE: A sign typically associated with movie theaters,performing arts 176 theaters, and theatrical playhouses. The sign is attached flat against and parallel to the surface of a 177 marquee structure. In addition, a changeable copy area is included where characters, letters, or 178 illustrations can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign. 179 SIGN, UNDER MARQUEE: A lighted or unlighted display attached to the 180 underside of a marquee protruding over public or private sidewalks. Under marquee signs may also be 181 called"under awning"or"under canopy"signs. 182 *** 183 STREET FRONTAGE: 184 , 185 That side of a lot abutting on a public right-of-way, but excluding 186 the side of a lot which abuts a limited access highway, and excluding alleys. 187 *** 188 • 189 B. Measurements. 190 1. Height: Measured as the distance from grade,unless otherwise designated,to the top of 191 the sign or sign structure. 192 2. Sign Area: A measurement of the total area of a sign visible from any one 193 viewpoint or direction, excluding the sign support structure, architectural 194 embellishments, or framework which contains no written copy, or which does not form 195 part of the sign proper or of the display. Freestanding letters or characters, where no 196 background is specially provided, shall be measured by determining the smallest 197 rectangle or polygon which encloses the extreme limits of the shapes to be used. 198 199 4-20-3 PERMITS,BONDS,APPLICATIONS,FEES AND INSPECTIONS: 200 *** 201 C. Exceptions: The following shall not require a sign permit. These exceptions shall not be 202 construed as relieving the owner of any sign from the responsibility of its erection, maintenance 203 and compliance with any other law or ordinance regulating the same. 204 2. Painting, repainting or cleaning of an advertising structur 205 shall not be considered an erection or alteration 206 which requires sign permit unless a structural or electrical change is made. 207 *** 208 18. Awning, canopy,and marquee structures having no signage. 8/21/97 15 *we `""o ATTACHMENT B 209 D. Permit Fees: At the time of issuing a permit to erect or install a sign or device controlled by this 210 Code,the Building Official shall collect a fee computed on the basis of the following: 211 9. For City Center sign modifications per Section 4-20-12H4,the application fee shall be 212 one hundred dollars ($100). 213 4-20-4 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION: 214 B. Construction: 215 *** 216 3. Restrictions on Combustible Materials: Freestanding and wall signs may be 217 constructed of any material meeting the requirements of this Code. Combination signs, 218 roof signs and signs on marquees shall be constructed of incombustible materials, 219 except as provided in paragraph 4 below. Projecting signs and under awning, under 220 canopy, or under marquee signs may be constructed of any material meeting the 221 requirements of this Code, including fire resistive treated wood. No combustible 222 materials other than approved plastics shall be used in the construction of electric signs. 223 (Ord. 3719,4-11-83) 224 *** 225 D. Obstruction of Official Sign, Signal or Device. No sign or sign structure shall be erected in 226 such a manner as to confine or obstruct the view or interpretation of any official traffic sign, 227 signal or device. 228 4-20-5 IGNS PROJECTING INTO SETBACKS AND RIGHTS-OF-WAY: 229 A. ProjectingsSigns projecting into setbacks or rights-of-way shall be designed in accordance with 230 the requirements specified in Section 4-20-4. 231 B. Projection and Clearance: 232 1. Projection into setbacks. 233 a. Signs may project within a legal setback a maximum of six feet(6'). 234 b. Ground signs which are six(6)feet or less in height may be installed within the 235 front yard setback in the landscape strip: provided, that the area described in 236 Section 4-20-8A6 is kept clear. 237 2. Projection into Rights-of-Way. 238 a. Where a legally constructed awning, canopy, or marquee exists which in itself 239 complies with the provisions of the Renton Building Code, an"under marquee" 240 sign, no larger than twelve inches (12") high by seventy two inches (72") long 241 by ten-twelve inches (4012") thick, may be suspended below the awning, 242 canopy, or marquee, provided the bottom of the sign is at least eight feet (8) 243 above the surface of the public or private sidewalk or walkway and the sign 244 does not extend beyond the awning,canopy,or marquee. 8/21/97 16 ATTACHMENT B 245 . b. In the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries defined in Section 4-20-12H, 246 under marquee signs may not exceed a maximum square footage of six (6) 247 square feet, with a maximum sign thickness of twelve inches (12"). The 248 bottom of the sign shall be at least eight feet(8')above the surface of the public 249 or private sidewalk or walkway, and the sign shall not extend beyond the 250 awning, canopy,or marquee. 251 c. Under marquee signs shall be limited to one such sign per entrance for each 252 business establishment. Under marquee signs may also be called "under 253 awning"or"under canopy"signs. 254 255 of the-ereetien. 256 43. All signs erected above or below a marquee which do not meet the requirements of 257 Section 4-20-6A shall comply with the requirements of this Section. 258 54. Signs and supporting sign structures shall-net-may project within the public right-of- 259 way, as follows: 260 a. Wall Sign. The thickness of that portion of a wall sign which projects over 261 public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve inches (12"). (Ord. 3719,4-11-83) 262 b. Marquees and the attached or associated signs may extend over the right-of- 263 way according to the terms of the adopted Uniform Building Code. 264 c. City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries. In the City Center Sign Regulation 265 Boundaries defined in Section 4-20-12H, the following signs may project into 266 the public right-of-way: 267 (1) Wall Sign. The thickness of that portion of a wall sign which projects 268 over public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve inches(12"). 269 (2) Projecting Sign. A projecting sign may extend over the public right-of- 270 way no more than four(4)feet from the wall it is mounted on. No sign 271 shall extend into the public right-of-way to within less than two(2)feet 272 of the curbline. 273 (3) Awnings, Building Canopies and Marquees. Awnings, building 274 canopies, and marquees and the attached or associated signs may 275 extend over the right-of-way according to the terms of the adopted 276 Uniform Building Code. 277 C. Name and Date of Sign Erector. All projecting signs, and signs which project into public 278 rights-of-way, shall have affixed thereon the name of the sign erector and the date of the 279 erection. 280 4-20-6 AWNINGS,CANOPIES,AND MARQUEES 281 A. Signs may be placed on, attached to or constructed in a marquee. Such signs, over public or 282 private property, shall for the purpose of determining projection, clearance,height and material, 8/21/97 17 411r. vise ATTACHMENT B 283 be considered part of and shall meet the requirements for a marquee as specified in the adopted 284 edition of the Uniform Building Code. (Ord. 4172, 9-12-88) 285 B. Signs may be painted, printed, or affixed upon awnings or canopies. Awnings and canopies 286 shall meet the applicable provisions of the adopted edition of the Uniform Building Code. 287 4-20-7 ELECTRIC SIGNS AND ILLUMINATION: 288 A. Electric signs shall be constructed of incombustible materials, except as specified in Section 4- 289 20-4. The enclosed shell of electric signs shall be watertight, excepting that service holes fitted 290 with covers shall be provided into each compartment of such signs. 291 B. Installation: 292 1. Installation: Electrical equipment used in connection with display signs shall be 293 installed in accordance with local ordinances regulating electrical installation. 294 2. Erector's Name: Every electric sign projecting over any street or alley or public place 295 shall have the name of the sign erector and date of erection. Such name and date shall 296 be of sufficient size and contrast to be readable from a reasonable distance. Failure to 297 provide such name and date shall be grounds for rejection of the sign by the Building 298 Official. (Ord. 2504, 9-23-69) 299 3. Label Required: All electric signs shall bear the label of an approved testing agency. 300 C. Unless specifically restricted, signs may be internally or externally illuminated, or have tube 301 illumination. 302 4-20-8 PROHIBITED SIGNS AND DEVICES. UNAUTHORIZED SIGNS, AND NON- 303 CONFORMING SIGNS: 304 A. Prohibited Signs. The following signs or devices are specifically prohibited: 305 *** 306 3. Animated,revolving,blinking and flashing signs as follows: 307 a. All of the following signs within seventy five feet (75') of the public right-of- 308 way with any of the following features: animated, revolving more than eight 309 (8) revolutions per minute, blinking and flashing. Exceptions are public 310 service signs, such as those which give the time,temperature and/or humidity. 311 b. In the City Center.all of the following signs with any of the following features: 312 animated, revolving, blinking and flashing. Exceptions are public service 313 signs, such as those which give the time,temperature and/or humidity. 314 *** 315 316 8. Signs over public right-of-way other than wall-signs specified in Section 4-20-5B, signs I 317 per Section 4-20-9B, City-sponsored signs and public service signs per Section 4-20- 318 3C.14, 15,and 1 , . 319 *** 8/21/97 18 ATTACHMENT B 320 11. Roof signs within the City Center Sign Regulation Area (Section 4-20-12H1) shall be 321 prohibited. 322 *** 323 C. Closure of Business: Upon the closure and vacation of a business or activity,the owner of said 324 business or activity shall have ninety (90) days from the date of closure to remove all signs 325 relating to said business and activity. If the owner of said business or activity fails to remove 326 said signs within the designated time period, then the owner of the property upon which said 327 signs are located shall remove said signs within one hundred twenty(120) days of said closure 328 and vacation of premises. 329 D. Non-Conforming Signs. Any non-conforming signage which was erected prior to the effective 330 date of this Ordinance ( ), or which was erected legally in accordance with the 331 provisions of the sign ordinance in effect at the time of erection, or which has a valid building 332 permit from the City may remain in use subject to the following: 333 1. The changing of advertising copy or message thereon is permitted provided no 334 structural or electrical alteration is made, and provided a sign permit is obtained by the 335 existing business. 336 2. The sign shall be kept in a safe condition. Nothing in this Chapter shall prevent the 337 strengthening or restoring to a safe condition of any portion of a sign declared unsafe 338 by a proper authority. Legal non-conforming signage is subject to all requirements of 339 this Code regarding safety,maintenance,and repair. 340 3. The cost of alterations of a legal nonconforming sign shall not exceed an aggregate cost 341 of fifty percent(50%)of the value of the sign,based upon its replacement value,unless 342 the amount over fifty percent (50%) is used to make the sign more conforming. 343 Alterations shall not result in or increase any nonconforming condition. 344 4. The reconstruction, repairing, rebuilding and continued use of a nonconforming sign 345 damaged by fire, explosion, or act of God, subsequent to the effective date of these 346 regulations( ),may be allowed as follows: the work shall not exceed fifty 347 percent (50%) of its replacement value of the sign at the time such damage occurred; 348 otherwise, any restoration or reconstruction shall conform to the regulations and 349 standards specified in this Chapter. 350 4-20-13PUBLIC ART EXEMPTION: 351 A. Applicability: 352 1. Objects of art are exempt from the requirements of the City's Sign Code when: 353 a. Sited in a manner as to be readily accessible to pedestrians for passive viewing; 354 b. Sited in a manner so as not to unduly divert the attention of motorists from the 355 roadway; 356 c. Stationary and do not revolve or otherwise move; 357 d. Not illuminated; 8/21/97 19 N.r lowATTACHMENT B 358 e. In good taste and reasonably reflect acceptable community values; 359 f. Of sufficient durability so as to have a life expectancy of at least ten (10) 360 years; 361 g. Not used or referred to in the media or by the owners of the premises or 362 operators of businesses contained thereon for business advertising purposes. 363 2. "Objects of art" for the purposes of this Section shall include, but not be limited to, 364 sculptures, wall paintings, murals, collages or banners by artists recognized by the 365 Renton Municipal Arts Commission and when consistent with guidelines, if any, 366 established by the Renton Municipal Arts Commission. 367 B. Application Procedure: 368 1. Before a proposed object of art may be exempted from the City's Sign Code, the 369 property owner or his/her representative shall apply for and be granted a public art 370 exemption certificate by the City. Applicants must submit an application with the 371 appropriate filing fees according to the City's established fee schedule, to the 372 Development Services Division of the Department of Planning/Building/Public Works. 373 The application shall include five (5) sets of photographs, scaled drawings, and/or 374 three-dimensional (3-D) depictions of the proposed objects/surfaces to be exempted, a 375 biographical sketch of the artist, and appropriate site plans and wall elevations 376 depicting the location of the objects of art. 377 2. If the City determines that there is no issue as to the artistic merit of the proposed 378 object, then the City may issue the applicant a public art exemption certificate. 379 Appeals from administrative decisions may be filed as referenced in Section 4-20-1C2. 380 3. If the City determines that there is an issue as to the artistic merit of the object, then 381 upon receipt of a completed application the Development Services Division shall 382 forward the application to the Renton Municipal Arts Commission for review and 383 recommendation and shall notify the applicant of the date the application was 384 transferred to the Commission. The Renton Municipal Arts Commission, following 385 adopted procedures, shall review and transmit to the Development Services Division a 386 recommendation on the application not later than nine) forty-five (45) days from I 387 the date of acceptance of a complete application, in accordance with the following 388 procedures: 8/21/97 20 Imo "410 ATTACHMENT B 389 390 HOUSEKEEPING AMENDMENTS 391 392 4-20-9 TEMPORARY SIGNS: 393 *** 394 E. Political Signs: 395 *** 396 2. Political signs shall not be greater than thirty two (32) square feet if single-faced or 397 sixty four (64) square feet if multi-faced, except if such signs are on an off-premises 398 ( sign structure regulated by Section 1 20 12C6 4-20-8A10. 399 *** 400 4-20-12 SIZE,NUMBER AND HEIGHT OF SIGNS: 401 A. General: 402 1. Location. All signs are further limited and restricted as to , ' , 403 eepy,design and-location in the land use zones as such land use zones are defined and 404 established by Chapter 31, "Zoning Code", Title IV (Building Regulations), Code of 405 General Ordinances of the City, as amended, or any other ordinance pertaining to or 406 regulating zoning. The Zoning Code may contain further sign restrictions. Only those 407 signs specifically designated are permitted; all others are prohibited. - ose zones 408 , 409 2. Height Limitations for Signage Outside the City Center Sign Regulation Area. tThe 410 height limitation for freestanding,ground, projecting and combination signs shall be the 411 maximum height of the zone or forty feet (401, whichever is less. ay 412 cRoof signs may extend twenty feet (20') above the parapet 413 wall. This Section shall not apply to those signs covered by Section 4-20-12C.8, 414 Oversized Signs for Large Retail Uses, or Section 4-20-12H, City Center Sign 415 Regulations. (Ord. 4464, 7-25-94) 416 B. Regulations for Residential, Zones, and Residential, Church and 417 School Occupancies in Mixed-Use ZonesRegulatiens: In all residential, 418 industrial zones, and for residential occupancies, churches or schools in mixed use zones,the 419 following shall apply: 420 *** 421 2. Churches, Schools, Etc: Churches, schools, apartment buildings, subdivision 422 I developments and similar occupancies located in residential and mixed use zones may 423 have two (2) on-premises identifying signs of not over thirty two (32) square feet in 424 area on one face. The signs may be illuminated but not animated, shall be for location 425 identification only and shall display no copy, symbol or device other than that in 426 keeping with the development. Freestanding signs shall be not higher than six feet (6) 427 above any established grade and shall be no closer than ten feet(10')to any street right- 428 I of-way or five feet (5') to any side property line. 8/21/97 21 Now Noe ATTACHMENT B 429 430 ' 431 . 432 However, public facilities in residential zones may have one freestanding sign with a 433 maximum height of twenty five feet(25'). 434 *** 435 C. Commercial and Industrial Zones: Except in the City 436 Center Sign Regulation Area,the following shall apply in all commercial and industrial zones: 437 *** 438 2. Business Signs: Each individual business establishment may have only one sign for 439 each street frontage of any one of the following types: Freestanding, roof, ground, 440 projecting or combination. Each sign shall not exceed an area greater than one and 441 one-half(11/2) square feet for each lineal foot of property frontage which the business 442 occupies up to a maximum of three hundred (300) square feet; or if such sign is multi- 443 faced,the maximum allowance shall not be more than three hundred (300) square feet. 444 However, a maximum of one-half(1/2) of the allowed square footage is allowed on 445 each face. Businesses with less than twenty five (25) lineal front feet may have a sign 446 of a maximum of twenty (20) square feet per 447 ; 448 . 449 *** 450 3. Wall Signs: In addition to the signs in Section Cl.Under Marquee Signs, C2,Business 451 Signs, C6, Motor Vehicle Dealership Over One Acre of Contiguous Ownership or 452 Control, and—8, Oversized Signs for Large Retail Uses, and C9, Shopping Centers, 453 wall signs are permitted with a total copy area not exceeding twenty percent (20%) of 454 the building facade to which it is applied. 455 *** 456 11. Commercial and/or industrial subdivisions may have two (2) on-premises identifying 457 signs not over seventy five (75) square feet on one face. These signs must be no higher 458 than six feet (6'), or no closer to the street right-of-way than ten feet (10') or five feet 459 (5')to any side property line. 460 461 462 463 , 464 .• 465 ' 466 , 467 ; 468 ��'� d e t -hap skBpt-Blear. (A��4 i�2 o 988) 8/21/97 22 ATTACHMENT B 469 470 sus--are-per. 471 472 ChapFe_is permitted i tis District (Ora 371 a 4 >> >983) 473 4-31-14: FREEWAY/ARTERIAL STREET SETBACK RESTRICTIONS 474 475 476 , 477 welfare: 478 SGNPRSTF.DOC 8/21/97 23 August 18, 1997 Renton City Council Minutes Page 274 Citizen Comment: Greene Correspondence was read from Rose Mary Greene, 530 Index Pl. NE, Renton, - DAWN Funding 98056, encouraging continued funding support for the Domestic Abuse Women's Network (DAWN). MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL REFER THIS CORRESPONDENCE TO THE COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE. CARRIED. OLD BUSINESS Council President Keolker-Wheeler presented a report regarding the Committee of the Whole downtown redevelopment project. The Committee recommended approval of Council: Downtown the reallocation of existing funds and new funding required to complete the Redevelopment Project following public infrastructure improvements: Funding Reconfiguration of Smithers, Logan and Third: Reallocation (not applicable). Gateway Feature: New Funding, $50,000. Street and Pedestrian Improvements on Logan: Reallocation, $200,000; New Funding, $150,000. Development of Piazza (first phase): Reallocation, $200,000; New Funding, $35,000. Development of Seattle Pipeline ROW: New Funding, $250,000. Purchase of Property North of Seattle Pipeline: New Funding, $35,000. Total City Investment: Reallocation, $400,000; New Funding, $520,000. The source for the additional funding will come from the sale of City property located between Logan and Morris Avenues and South 2nd and 3rd, sales tax on construction of the Daily project, and mitigation fees. It is understood that the implementation of these public improvements is contingent upon the Daily Homes purchase and development of the property. MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY SCHLITZER, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. Planning: Downtown Core Council President Keolker-Wheeler presented a report regarding the Sign Code Area Sign Code update for the Downtown Area. In accordance with the schedule described in Regulations response to City Council Motion and Referral #97027-C, a public hearing regarding proposed sign regulations for the Downtown Area (also called the City Center) is to be held in late September, 1997. The Committee recommended that a public hearing be scheduled for September 22, 1997. MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY EDWARDS, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. Vacation: SE 5th St (Orff; MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL VAC-97-004) REFER THE MATTER OF APPRAISAL FEE OPTIONS FOR THE SE 5TH ST. STREET VACATION (BRUCE ORFF, VAC-97-004) TO THE PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE. CARRIED. Community Services Community Services Committee Chair Nelson presented a report Committee recommending concurrence in the approval of the proposed City Park, Council: Policy on Naming Recreation and Public Facility Naming Policy. The Committee further City-Owned Facilities and recommended that the resolution regarding this matter be presented for Properties reading and adoption. MOVED BY NELSON, SECONDED BY PARKER, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. (See page 276 for resolution.) Planning & Development Planning & Development Committee Chair Schlitzer presented a report Committee regarding card rooms in the Employment Area - Valley. The Committee Planning: Card Rooms believes that social card rooms as defined by the Gambling Act of 1973, as Land Use Definitions and amended in 1996, should be regulated at the local level through the City's Restrictions Zoning Code. The Committee recommended that: APPROVED DV iisof CITY COUNCIL Date ' ir—,r-i COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE COMMITTEE REPORT August 18, 1997 Sign Code Update-Downtown Area (Referred June 2, 1997) In accordance with the schedule described in response to City Council Motion and Referral #97027-C, a public hearing regarding proposed sign regulations for the Downtown Area (also called the City Center) is to be held in late September 1997. The Committee recommends that a public hearing be scheduled for September 22, 1997. /d6-e#6 (A)Ae-e Kathy Ke er-Wheeler, Council President cc: Gregg Zinunennan Jim Hanson Michael Kattermann Marilyn Petersen COMRPTPH.DOC Now Nemo LOCATIONS OF POSTINGS DONE ON August 19 , 1997. 1. Main Library 2. Highlands Library 3. Lobby Bulletin Board - City Hall 4. Outside Bulletin Board - City Hall CERTIFICATION STATE OF WASHINGTON) ss COUNTY OF KING ) I Bonnie Walton HEREBY CERTIFY THAT 2 COPIES OF THE ATTACHED PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE WERE POSTED IN CONSPICUOUS PLACES AS DESCRIBED AND TWO COPIES WERE POSTED AT THE RENTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 200 MILL AVENUE S., RENTON, WA ON DATE OF 8/19/97 SIGNED V: ✓t c t C-Ula.. � SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN TO BEFORE ME this 19 day of ACUSUO 4 , 19 qr.) YAP/Paal -- Notary Public in and for the State of Washington, residing at Stak*ke-- *my 41100- CITY OF RENTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RENTON CITY COUNCIL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Renton City Council has fixed September 22, 1997, at 7:30 p.m. as the date and time for a public hearing to be held in the second floor Council Chambers of the Renton Municipal Building, 200 Mill Avenue South, Renton 98055, to consider the following: Sign Regulations in the Downtown Area (City Center) All interested persons are invited to attend the hearing and present oral or written comments in support or opposition to the proposal. The Municipal Building is fully accessible, and interpretive services for the hearing impaired will be provided upon prior notice. Please call 235-2501 for additional information or 277-4453 TDD. / N ► f Marilyn J.i4e en City Clerk Published: South County Journal September 12, 1997 Account No. 50640 CITY OF RENTON JUL 3 01997 CITY OF RENTON RECEIVED �;ITY CLERK'S OFFICE PLANNINGBUILDING/PUBLIC WORKS MEMORANDUM DATE: July 29, 1997 TO: Kathy Keolker-Wheeler, President City Council Members VIA: Mayor Jesse Tanner FROM: Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator 6-2 Planning/Building/Public Works Department STAFF CONTACT: Mike Kattermann (ext. 6190) SUBJECT: Sign Code Update: Workshop and Questionnaire Results WORKSHOP AND OUESTIONNAIRE: For your review, attached are the results of the second public workshop, and the questionnaire mailed to those on the Downtown Sign Code mailing list. The purpose of the workshop and questionnaire were to ask citizen input about the preliminary draft sign code proposal for the Downtown area (also called the City Center). Public notice of the second workshop was mailed to about 400 addresses to persons who own property or businesses in the Downtown area, members of the Gateways Committee, and other related interest groups. The second Downtown Sign Code Workshop was held on July 22, 1997, 7:30-9:00 a.m., at the Renton Chamber of Commerce. Thirteen citizens participated, including City Council members Toni Nelson and King Parker. The workshop was facilitated primarily by staff from the consulting firm Stalzer and Associates. City staff from the Planing and Technical Services Division, Development Services Division, and Community Services Department attended, as well as the City's Economic Development Director. The results of the Workshop are shown in Attachment A. To elicit more citizen input, a questionnaire was mailed along with the workshop notice and a sign proposal summary. As of July 28, 1997, twenty two questionnaires were returned. The results of the questionnaire are shown in Attachment B. CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION: The next sign code briefing before the City Council Committee-of-the-Whole is scheduled for August 4, 1997. Staff will present the results of Workshop #2 and the questionnaire. We will also discuss potential changes to the preliminary draft sign code based upon the workshop and questionnaire results. Transres.Doc Ammw low DOWNTOWN SIGN WORKSHOP#2 JULY 22, 1997 DISCUSSION SUMMARY • Clutter-examples of codes from other cities. • Design review-can take time and more money. • Pole signs-should we eliminate? Can't see 15 ft. high. • Use pole signs for multi-tenant complex only. • Keep flexibility/choice. • Height of signals -conflict with lights. Go with 20 ft.height for freestanding. • Incentive program-will it be used? • Nonconforming signs take awhile to remove. • Start with encouraging small projecting signs -coordinated brackets and size. Add to the signs they have. • Take signs down at closure of business. • Incentive to remove nonconforming signs. • Sign incentives good for new development(coordinated). • Unlit signs-not sure if businesses would take advantage of it. • Offer bonus as an option. • Samples of projecting signs for next meeting. • Directional signs -address. • Can mid-block businesses request a variance for pole signs? • Restriction on wall sign for upstairs business -but could have a pole sign for each street - look at modification process. • Make process simple. Examples of category signs. • Incentive process cumbersome? • Incentives address theme,additional signage. • Next meeting,morning and evening. • Electronic message boards -limit(the ban)to City Center. Haven't heard from other businesses. WK2DISC.DOC\ 1 ". e CITY CENTER SIGN PROPOSAL QUESTIONNAIRE RESULTS SUMMARY GENERAL RESULTS Approximately 407 questionnaires were distributed to various business and citizen groups, such as the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Renton Association, Gateway Committee, elected and appointed City officials, and some City staff. Postage paid return envelopes were provided. Twenty two (22) questionnaires were returned by July 28, 1997, a response rate of 5.4%. QUESTIONNAIRE RESULTS Each question appears below. Responses and comments are reported below in this typeface, following each question. All written comments are included verbatim. Total percentages may not equal 100% due to rounding error. CITY CENTER SIGN PROPOSAL QUESTIONNAIRE We would like to hear from you! We would like your input about the preliminary draft sign regulation proposals for the City Center. Please review the questionnaire in conjunction with the Summary of the City Center Preliminary Draft Sign Proposal. Please return the questionnaire by July 25, 1997. You may return it in person at the public workshop scheduled for July 22, 1997, 7:30-9:00 a.m. at the Renton Chamber of Commerce, 300 Rainier Avenue North, or by mail in the return envelope provided. If you have questions, please call Lisa Grueter, Senior Planner, at(425)277-5578. Thank you for your participation. QUESTIONS 1. The proposed City Center Sign Boundaries are shown below (also see discussion on page 1 of the Summary). Please check one: A. I like the boundary proposal 18 (81.8%) B. I think the boundaries should be different 2 (9.1%) No Response 2 (9.1%) Show your boundary suggestions on the map below. Please explain your changes: • Comments: • I like the boundary proposal. Seem well thought out covering the core area. • I think the boundaries should be different. I believe that any business should have any sign they please so long as it doesn't block any view for traffic &creates no hazard. NNW RESULTS SUMMARY July 29, 1997 • I like the boundary proposal. OK if City Center is to be more restrictive than others. • I think the boundaries should be different. The area cross-hatched in red [see Attachment A] is within the Airport Runway Protection Zone. No construction or use by high density business/residences should be permitted there. To incorporate in Downtown Area implies that these uses are possible. 2. Do you agree that new roof signs should be prohibited in the City Center (see page 4 of Summary)? Please check one: A. Yes 16 (72.7%) B. No 5 (22.7%) No Response 1 (4.5%) Please explain: Comments: • Yes. Most times in the Downtown they are ineffective. • No. Selected areas of signs promoting downtown should be visible from Hwy 405. • Yes. May be difficult to see. • No. I'm not sure why a roof sign should be prohibited. • Yes. Unsightly. • No. Business provides taxes &jobs so why impede it. • Yes. Not a positive contribution to our town. 3. Do you think signs which are animated, revolving or flashing should be prohibited (see page 4 of Summary)? Please check one: A. Yes,prohibit City-wide 10 (45.5%) B. Yes,but prohibit only in the City-Center 8 (36.4%) C. Yes,but only prohibit them within 75 feet of the street right-of-way 0 (0%) D. No,don't prohibit anywhere 3 (13.6%) No Response 1 (4.5%) Please explain: Comments: • Yes, prohibit City-wide. Prevent any indication of Las Vegas atmosphere. • Yes, prohibit City-wide. We're not Las Vegas. RESULTS.DOC\ 2 RESULTS SUMMARY July 29, 1997 • Yes, prohibit City-wide. These signs suggest "clutter" & "cheap." • No, don't prohibit anywhere. Should have group appointed to evaluate and approve tasteful signs. • Yes, prohibit City-wide. Weather&time & message signs OK at a distance. • Yes, prohibit City-wide. Unsightly -too tawdry. • Yes, prohibit City-wide. It's important to me to enjoy the environment in which I'm in and flashing signs only distract. • Yes, but prohibit only in the City-Center. City Code requires special safeguards against glare or vision impairment of pilots. If you answered Yes under items A, B, or C above, do you agree that exceptions to the prohibition should include: 1) Public Service Signs Yes 13 (59.1%) No 2 (9.1%) No Response 7 (31.8%) 2) If part of a City Center coordinated sign plan, allow a small amount of animation Yes 11 (50%) No 5 (22.7%) No Response 6 (27.3%) Please explain: Comments: • Public Service Signs, yes; City Center small amount of animation, no. Identification for public services are necessary. • Public Service Signs, yes; City Center small amount of animation, yes. That way tasteful application could be monitored. • Public Service Signs, no; City Center small amount of animation, no. Public Service Signs -this definition is already misused in our town. Even the "public service" sign at the hospital is used only to advertise (the latest birth class, etc...) 4. Portable signs, including A-frames (sandwich boards), are currently prohibited City-wide. The proposed City Center sign regulations would not change this prohibition. Do you think A-frame signs should be allowed in the City Center? Please check one: A. Yes, allow them in the City Center 8 (36.4%) B. Yes,but only with a coordinated sign plan(see page 4 of Summary) 7 (31.8%) C. No,continue to prohibit them 7 (31.8%) Please explain: RESULTS.DOC\ 3 RESULTS SUMMARY July 29, 1997 Comments: • Yes, but only with a coordinated sign plan. Certain A-frames can be informative for merchant specials. • Yes, allow them in the City Center. You don't enforce prohibition, so allow it. • Yes, but only with a coordinated sign plan. No-electric Daytime signs. • No, continue to prohibit them. Clutter. • Yes, allow them in the City Center. Gives a nice character to area. • Yes, allow them in the City Center. User and business friendly. • No, continue to prohibit them. Will tend to block pedestrian access along sidewalks. • No, continue to prohibit them. Sidewalks are not wide enough for them. • Yes, allow them in the City Center. They help new businesses establish themselves. • Yes, but only with a coordinated sign plan. *Must be professionally painted every 3 months. *Sidewalks must be a minimum of 10 feet wide. 5. Please read the proposal regarding signs which no longer meet current standards (called "nonconforming signs")on page 4 of the Summary. Do you agree with the following: A. City-wide,allow changes of copy on nonconforming signs by existing businesses Yes 14 (63.6%) No 3 (13.6%) No Response= 5 (22.7%) B. City-wide, allow for some alteration/repair of nonconforming signs (up to 50% of sign value)by existing businesses Yes 13 (59.1%) No 4 (18.2%) No Response= 5 (22.7%) C. City-wide,when a business vacates,I agree that the City should(choose one): i) Require that all signs be removed 5 (22.7%) ii) Require that all signs are removed, unless a new tenant moves in within a reasonable time;then only nonconforming signs need to be removed 7 (31.8%) iii) Require removal of nonconforming signs only,instead of all signs 3 (13.6%) iv) Not require removal of any signs 5 (22.7%) No Response 2(9.1%) D. In the City Center, require replacement of nonconforming signs when installing a Category A or B sign(listed on pages 2 and 3 of the Summary). Yes 15 (68.2%) No 3 (13.6%) No Response 4(18.2%) Please explain: RESULTS.DOC\ 4 .4140 RESULTS SUMMARY July 29, 1997 Comments: • D, yes. Eliminate confusion by staying up to date. • D, no. "Grandfather" old signs. • D, yes. Cannot have it both ways, one or the other. • D, yes. New signs will improve look&feel of downtown. • B, yes. BUT... the value of the repairs cannot be added to the old value for any future work. Cii, yes. Require that all signs are removed and the background repainted to match adjacent surfaces. D, no. Bad question. Why would I replace a nonconforming sign. I should put up a conforming one! 6. Freestanding signs(also known as"pole"signs)in the City Center are proposed to have a maximum height of 15 feet. Do you agree with this proposed standard? A. Yes,I like 15 feet 13 (59.1%) B. No,I like 20 feet 6 (27.3%) C. No,I think there should be a different height 2 (9.1%) What height? (see below)feet No Response - 1 (4.5%) Comments: • No, I like 20 feet. If appropriate. • No, I think there should be a different height. Any height so long as no hazard is made. • No, I think there should be a different height. What height? 25-30'. 7. Currently, wall signs are allowed on each facade of a building. The proposed City Center regulations (see pages 2 and 3 of the Summary)would allow wall signs on building facades which face streets or which have public entrances. A wall sign would not be allowed on a building wall with no entrances which faces a parking lot. Do you agree with the City Center proposal to restrict wall signs from facades which do not front on a street or which do not have a public entrance? Please choose one: • A. Yes,I like the City Center proposal as explained above 5 (22.7%) B. No,I would allow wall signs on building facades which do not face a street or which do not have a public entrance 14 (63.6%) C. No,I think wall signs should be treated differently 2 (9.1%) No Response 1 (4.5%) Please explain your proposal: RESULTS.DOC\ 5 Noay NNW RESULTS SUMMARY July 29, 1997 Comments: • Answer B selected. Wall signs in Downtown Renton might make a building look better! • Answer B selected. If "art" then OK. • Answer C selected. As long as the signs are tasteful & help people find a business okay! • Answer B selected. Issaquah tried this [prohibiting wall signs on walls with no entrances which faces a parking lot] and failed. Their current code drops this regulation. 8. Currently,wall signs are allowed to be as large as 20%of the area of the building facade where they would be applied. The proposed City Center regulations (see page 2 of the Summary) would allow wall signs based upon the width of a building wall, with a cap of 100 square feet. Do you agree with the formula and cap to determine wall sign size in the City Center? Please choose one: A. Yes,I like the formula and cap 13 (59.1%) B. Yes,I like the formula,but use a different cap 1 (4.5%) What size? (see below)square feet C. No,use the current regulation of 20% 4(18.2%) No Response 4(18.2%) Comments: • No response selected. What about art on large walls? • No response selected. Have no caps. Should be individualized. • No response selected. I believe an owner should be able to have any sign they want. • Answer B selected. What size? 300 square feet. AND leave the 20% cap. 9. Currently, projecting signs are not allowed to extend over public sidewalks. The proposed City Center regulations(see pages 2 and 3 of the Summary)would allow projecting signs to extend up to 4 feet over public sidewalks. Sidewalks in the City Center vary in width from about 7 and 1/2 feet to 10 feet wide. Do you agree with the proposal limiting projecting signs to a maximum 4 foot extension over sidewalks? A. Yes,have a maximum projection of 4 feet 16 (72.7%) B. No,have a different maximum projection 5 (22.7%) How far? fm below)feet No Response 1 (4.5%) Comments: • No, have a different maximum projection. How far? 0 feet. • No, have a different maximum projection. To cover walkway. RESULTS.DOC\ 6 RESULTS SUMMARY July 29, 1997 • No, have a different maximum projection. How far? 75% of sidewalk width. • No response selected. Varies -coordinate by a group appointed. • No, have a different maximum projection. How far? 6 feet. 10. Do you have any other comments or suggestions about the proposed City Center sign regulations? Comments: • Excellent proposal. Well represented draft. Superb questionnaire as compared to the Council's inability to identify conditions and restrictions. • More signage for businesses is needed in the Downtown but put a codicil in that it comes only with outside improvement i.e. new paint, repair of loose masonry. • The City definitely needs a sign regulation. However until now, after years and years of little or no regulations almost 90% of Renton business will have to change & I'm afraid it will cost small business a small fortune. After all it already costs too much to run a small business in this town! • Make large incentives to coordinate looks of signs. • Garish flashing signs should be banned. All billboard styles should be removed. • I believe the City should let owners have any signs they want, provided no hazard is created. Thank you for your assistance! Please fold the questionnaire in thirds and place in return envelope provided. RESULTS.DOC\ 7 k 1 4110 ATTACHMENT A PCInoF DIVISION �ti 0� RENTON • ,' • JUL 2 �� 81997 4NN� RECEIVED CITY CENTER SIGN PROPOSAL QUESTIONNAIRE We would like to hear from you! We would like your input about the preliminary draft sign regulation proposals for the City Center. Please review the questionnaire in conjunction with the Summary of the City Center Preliminary Draft Sign Proposal. Please return the questionnaire by July 25, 1997. You may return it in person at the public workshop scheduled for July 22, 1997, 7:30-9:00 a.m. at the Renton Chamber of Commerce, 300 Rainier Avenue North, or by mail in the return envelope provided. If you have questions, please call Lisa Greeter, Senior Planner,at(4251 277-557R Thank you for your participation. • QUESTIONS 1. The proposed City Center Sign Boundaries are shown below(also see discussion on page I of the • Summary). Please check one: A. I like the boundary proposal B. I think the boundaries should be different Show your boundary suggestions on the map below. Please explain your changes: rNE Alm c toss-t34► ED 11t PI f is Uirttl t4 'tu . MUD'r j I P a %MN ZOO b COUS-att101-1 OQ. BE Peet, - 'e at . TO t 40000tt.4Ktt. t N Dow ' A 1.1 34 -A �_ _ _ _ Airport Wo v Ilq� — � i'= t(�Ql..«S Q�� , ann im -� �N ` on _ IC T A.eg. Ponsts. DTI = ' �N I MI 1 21, VI 1 IN Will Fal ‹..d St Mri —� — 2nd ! F!1TEMJIiUIJ ■i urzi -1 er DE Ho\ _.E.--_-: gill e ,gyRio'85 p, J 1 is �'p gild 1 Li- ?�I s 4th 0. ( — P'' dig ==�1. ( = + kW. QUEST.DO0 1 • °/V41)1 (cY *aw°' "0 ♦ MRidi CITY OF RENTON N,ATTO'� JUL 1 41997 CITY CLERK SEA You are invited ! OFFICE What: Workshop #2 on amendments to the Downtown Renton Sign Code When: Tuesday, July 22nd 7:30 A.M. - 9:00 A.M. Where: Renton Chamber of Commerce, 300 Rainier Ave. N., Renton Continental Breakfast will be provided. The City of Renton is preparing an ordinance to regulate signs differently for the Downtown than other commercial areas. The purpose is to recognize the unique character of the Downtown. This meeting is the second workshop in a series to provide public input into the formulation of new sign requirements. The agenda for the meeting will include: • Preliminary Sign Regulation Proposals • Examples - how the regulations would work • Issues and Options Registration is encouraged, but not required. Please call the "Sign Code Hotline", 277-6167, to register or place your name on the mailing list. SIGNWK2.DOC\ fV ";1�'NT•� CITY CENTER SIGN PROPOSAL QUESTIONNAIRE We would like to hear from you! We would like your input about the preliminary draft sign regulation proposals for the City Center. Please review the questionnaire in conjunction with the Summary of the City Center Preliminary Draft Sign Proposal. Please return the questionnaire by July 25, 1997. You may return it in person at the public workshop scheduled for July 22, 1997, 7:30-9:00 a.m. at the Renton Chamber of Commerce, 300 Rainier Avenue North, or by mail in the return envelope provided. If you have questions, please call Lisa Grueter, Senior Planner, at(425) 277-5578. Thank you for your participation. QUESTIONS 1. The proposed City Center Sign Boundaries are shown below (also see discussion on page I of the Summary). Please check one: A. I like the boundary proposal B. I think the boundaries should be different Show your boundary suggestions on the map below. Please explain your changes: Airport Way v I�1. E„ —JTJ ii`, 412 =u 2r d -t 1-�- ii LI ililiiii. II__. 1 • 1 npui .. r 1.7. pF g amifflici E— -1 = % N------\f>c . F 122- imv II In Wit • III S2ndSt S 2nd 7 Oil 11117/1111 ain ril sr. Ns L L II , . ottwomn EP 10 am i L —1_`6,V 4,74 14/ ma \-- : I iia El/ imp =-- , I__ / it! _ ii C\ffi, 7* �= =ica =I= ==ii _. ---4w m.. mai . IL* i y QUEST.DOC\ 1 tie 2. Do you agree that new roof signs should be prohibited in the City Center (see page 4 of Summary)? Please check one: A. Yes B. No Please explain: 3. Do you think signs which are animated, revolving or flashing should be prohibited (see page 4 of Summary)? Please check one: A. Yes,prohibit City-wide B. Yes,but prohibit only in the City-Center C. Yes, but only prohibit them within 75 feet of the street right-of-way D. No,don't prohibit anywhere Please explain: If you answered Yes under items A, B, or C above, do you agree that exceptions to the prohibition should include: 1) Public Service Signs Yes No 2) If part of a City Center coordinated sign plan, allow a small amount of animation Yes No Please explain: 4. Portable signs, including A-frames(sandwich boards), are currently prohibited City-wide. The proposed City Center sign regulations would not change this prohibition. Do you think A-frame signs should be allowed in the City Center? Please check one: A. Yes, allow them in the City Center B. Yes, but only with a coordinated sign plan(see page 4 of Summary) C. No,continue to prohibit them Please explain: 5. Please read the proposal regarding signs which no longer meet current standards (called "nonconforming signs")on page 4 of the Summary. Do you agree with the following: A. City-wide, allow changes of copy on nonconforming signs by existing businesses Yes No B. City-wide, allow for some alteration/repair of nonconforming signs (up to 50% of sign value)by existing businesses Yes No C. City-wide, when a business vacates,I agree that the City should(choose one): i) Require that all signs be removed QUEST.DOC\ 2 (cY VGA O� • e RENTON SIGN CODE UPDATE SUMMARY: CITY CENTER PRELIMINARY DRAFT SIGN PROPOSAL INTRODUCTION This summary provides an overview of the preliminary draft sign regulation proposals primarily for the City Center which are based upon comments from the first public workshop held in mid-June, and input from Renton elected officials and staff. The detailed proposal is available through the Renton Long Range Planning Section by calling(425) 235-2552. To discuss sign regulation proposals a public workshop is scheduled for July 22, 1997, 7:30-9:00 a.m., Renton Chamber of Commerce,300 Rainier Avenue North,Renton. CITY CENTER SIGN BOUNDARIES The City of Renton is preparing an ordinance to regulate signs differently in the Downtown and other commercial areas (called the "City Center" throughout this document). The purpose is to recognize the unique character of the City Center. The proposed City Center Sign Regulation Area is shown on the map below. The proposed boundaries would exclude certain areas along Rainier Avenue,and Airport Way which are more arterial commercial in nature and which are not as interrelated to the Downtown area as are other corridors (e.g. the S. 2nd and S. 3rd Street corridors). The east side of Rainier Avenue at S. 3rd Street would be included because it is a gateway to the City Center. For ease of administering the Sign Code, the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries include some multi-family areas near the Cedar River and near Fifth Street South. Airport Way Islip CR - E.— -'- �I I iiiiu , I : p= =■ �, 1. -I- rimFu •I�IIR f Ir. z �� (�� — `� � 1 r _ El AIL' S 2nd St S 2nd \ ■1. ■I. .ill %I 3rd S Ili ! rill p a // Ill PIS ■ --L w•fAl C . ��yVil� , - �_ � Sep ' I t rim idlaI� [7/ ■ — ':k 11_ Ea I F _•- ., 1 Al ilk h LI .;, — _ ..I'ilk � EIS -1� E III —g' _- ■i C.- pia _ �� -- CI. E.�� �n� 7/10/97 1 4110 • Multi-occupancy or multiple building complex wall sign: 6 inches (applies to copy and logo) SIGN INCENTIVES The proposed regulations would offer sign bonuses in the City Center to encourage: • Coordinated sign plans prepared by two or more businesses where signs would have consistent lighting, materials,etc. • Externally illuminated or unlit signs,where no sign for a business is internally illuminated. For coordinated sign plans, bonuses may include: 1) ability to combine any allowed sign area into any number of smaller wall or projecting signs; and 2) allowances for a small amount of a wall or projecting sign to be animated (20%), excluding any lettering area. Another option for a bonus could allow one A-frame (sandwich board) sign per ground level business. For unlit or externally illuminated signs,bonuses may include increased sign area of 15%for an individual sign (ground, wall, projecting, or awning/canopy/marquee signs), or increased sign area of 30% where allowable sign area is combined. SIGN MODIFICATIONS In order to allow for unique situations,a modification process would be offered for signs in the City Center. Variations could be made to the sign size or height requirements for projecting,wall,or awning/canopy/marquee signs. The height or area of a freestanding or ground sign could not be modified. If a proposed variation would not meet the criteria for a modification,it could be considered as a variance application which requires additional processing. PROHIBITED SIGNS There are two key changes to the list of prohibited signs. The first is that in the City Center,new roof signs would be prohibited in order to enhance the pedestrian environment while also accommodating automobiles. Other new sign types are promoted in the regulations including projecting signs over rights-of-way and awning/canopy/marquee signs. The second change would involve animated or revolving signs. Currently, sign regulations prohibit City-wide any animated, revolving (more than 8 revolutions per minute), or flashing signs within 75 feet of a right-of-way, except public service signs (e.g. time and temperature electronic message boards). The amendments would indicate that any animated, revolving (no matter the number of revolutions) or flashing signs are prohibited regardless of the setback, except for public service signs,or for signs granted a small amount of animation through the City Center sign incentives process. The new amendment could apply City-wide,or just to the City Center. NONCONFORMING SIGNS The proposed amendments would take a moderate approach to nonconforming signs, essentially incorporating current practice with some changes: • City-wide,allow changes of copy by existing businesses. • City-wide,allow for some alteration/repair(up to 50%of sign value)by existing businesses. • City-wide, when a business vacates, either 1) require that all signs are removed when a business vacates (current practice);or,2)require that all signs are removed when a business vacates unless a new tenant moves in within a reasonable time in which case only nonconforming signage needs to be removed; or, 3) require removal of non-conforming signs,instead of all signs. Option 3 is shown in proposed amendments. • In the City Center,require replacement of non-conforming signs when installing a Category A or B sign. 7/10/97 4 Ntimoo ii) Require that all signs are removed, unless a new tenant moves in within a reasonable time;then only nonconforming signs need to be removed iii) Require removal of nonconforming signs only,instead of all signs iv) Not require removal of any signs D. In the City Center, require replacement of nonconforming signs when installing a Category A or B sign(listed on pages 2 and 3 of the Summary). Yes No Please explain: 6. Freestanding signs(also known as"pole"signs)in the City Center are proposed to have a maximum height of 15 feet. Do you agree with this proposed standard? A. Yes,I like 15 feet B. No,I like 20 feet C. No,I think there should be a different height What height? feet 7. Currently, wall signs are allowed on each facade of a building. The proposed City Center regulations (see pages 2 and 3 of the Summary)would allow wall signs on building facades which face streets or which have public entrances. A wall sign would not be allowed on a building wall with no entrances which faces a parking lot. Do you agree with the City Center proposal to restrict wall signs from facades which do not front on a street or which do not have a public entrance? Please choose one: A. Yes,I like the City Center proposal as explained above B. No,I would allow wall signs on building facades which do not face a street or which do not have a public entrance C. No,I think wall signs should be treated differently Please explain your proposal: 8. Currently,wall signs are allowed to be as large as 20%of the area of the building facade where they would be applied. The proposed City Center regulations (see page 2 of the Summary) would allow wall signs based upon the width of a building wall, with a cap of 100 square feet. Do you agree with the formula and cap to determine wall sign size in the City Center? Please choose one: A. Yes,I like the formula and cap B. Yes,I like the formula,but use a different cap What size? square feet C. No,use the current regulation of 20% 9. Currently, projecting signs are not allowed to extend over public sidewalks. The proposed City Center regulations(see pages 2 and 3 of the Summary)would allow projecting signs to extend up to 4 feet over public sidewalks. Sidewalks in the City Center vary in width from about 7 and 1/2 feet to 10 feet wide. Do you agree with the proposal limiting projecting signs to a maximum 4 foot extension over sidewalks? QUEST.DOC\ 3 411110 A. Yes,have a maximum projection of 4 feet B. No,have a different maximum projection How far? feet 10. Do you have any other comments or suggestions about the proposed City Center sign regulations? Thank you for your assistance! Please fold the questionnaire in thirds and place in return envelope provided. QUEST.DOC\ 4 CITY OF RENTON PLANNING/BUILDING/PUBLIC WORKS MEMORANDUM DATE: July 9, 1997 TO: Kathy Keolker-Wheeler, President City Council Members VIA: Mayor Jesse Tanner FROM: Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator I! ' 1:,)4 Planning/Building/Public Works Department STAFF CONTACT: Mike Kattermann (ext. 6190) SUBJECT: DOWNTOWN SIGN CODE FOLLOW-UP ISSUE: The purpose of this memo is to follow-up on the presentation to Committee-of-the-Whole on July 7. This memo is for information only and requires no action by Council. There was not time to respond to several concerns raised by Council at Committee-of-the-Whole on Monday, July 7: • prohibition of electronic, animated and moving signs city wide • removal of signs from vacant businesses • elimination of wall signs • lack of provisions for pennants • allowing animation of signs • coordinated sign plans and "A-frame" signs • visibility of lettering for automobile traffic In order to remain on schedule, the next public workshop must be scheduled and materials made available before the next Committee briefing on July 21. NEXT STEPS: • Staff is proceeding with distribution of the preliminary draft ordinance in preparation for the next public workshop on July 22nd • Staff will continue to discuss Council concerns at the next regular briefing on July 21st • Staff will raise the issues and concerns expressed by the Council from the July 7th and July 21st briefings at the public workshop on July 22nd • Staff will follow-up with Council members individually to ensure all of the issues are included. oimme July 9, 1997 Page 2 • The preliminary draft will be revised. There will be more time after the next workshop to revise the preliminary draft based on public input and Council comments, the draft at this time represents proposals intended to test opinions on a range of topics and approaches. BACKGROUND SUMMARY: Following is a brief response to the concerns raised by Council at the briefing on July 7th, additional explanation can be provided, if desired, at the next briefing: • prohibition of electronic, animated and moving signs city wide -- this was an idea raised by several participants at the first workshop with the discussion initially focused on downtown and then expanded city wide • removal of signs from vacant businesses -- current code requires removal of signs upon vacation of a business; however, staff time and resources have made enforcement difficult at best. The proposal to address only non-conforming signs is offered as a possible compromise that might be easier to enforce, though staff is still reviewing whether this approach is realistic. • elimination of wall signs -- the proposal is to eliminate wall signs where there is no public entrance in order to avoid the "billboard" look on downtown buildings • lack of provisions for pennants -- this is not addressed because it is a temporary sign issue and staff is attempting to keep the discussion focused on "permanent" signs • allowing animation of signs -- the proposal is to allow a small amount of animation (max. 20%) as an incentive under the coordinate sign plan option, if there are concerns about this provision being abused, staff can include more stringent language or drop the incentive in the next draft. • coordinated sign plans and "A-frame" signs -- the proposal attempts to address "A-frame" signs through an incentive approach with a coordinated sign plan; however, staff is also looking at whether this would require additional review. • visibility of lettering for automobile traffic -- although one of the goals for downtown is to create a more pedestrian-friendly streetscape, automobile traffic will continue to be vital to downtown. The lettering sizes in the preliminary draft are larger than some standards for visibility by persons in vehicles moving at posted speeds for downtown. CONCLUSION: The preliminary draft presented to the Committee of the Whole on July 7th is intended as an initial proposal to test specific standards and approaches. Revisions are expected over the next several weeks based on Council, public and staff input. Staff will continue to work through issues and concerns with the Council every other week, with the next regular briefing scheduled for Committee- of-the-Whole on July 21st. cc: Jay Covington Jim Hanson Sue Carlson Rebecca Lind Lisa Grueter h:\division.s\p-ts\planning\downtown\s igncode\c-o-wrpt\0707resp.doc CITY OF RENTON PLANNINGBUILDING/PUBLIC WORKS MEMORANDUM DATE: July 2, 1997 TO: Kathy Keolker-Wheeler,President Members of the Renton City Council VIA: ' / Jesse Tanner,Mayor FROM: Gregg Zimmerman,Administrator (j STAFF CONTACT: Mike Kattermann(ext. 6190) SUBJECT: Preliminary Draft Sign Code for City Center(Downtown Area) ISSUES: • What should be the boundaries for the City Center Sign Regulations? • How should non-conforming signs be treated? • Should we allow A-frame signs in the City Center? • Electronic Message Boards - should non-public service message boards be restricted not just from the City Center,but also City wide? • Should any animation on a sign be allowed? • In the City Center area, should there be provisions for sign modifications and sign incentives to allow for creativity, and allow for coordinated sign themes? • Should wall signs be allowed on facades which do not front on a street? In general, how big should wall signs be? • How high should freestanding signs be? • How far should projecting signs extend over a sidewalk? RECOMMENDATIONS: • The boundaries should be drawn as shown in Attachment C, and exclude most property fronting Rainier Avenue, and the Airport Way vicinity. The east side of Rainier Avenue at S. 3rd Street would be included because it is a gateway to the City Center. July 2, 1997 W Page 2 • In the City Center, nonconforming signage should be replaced when conforming freestanding, or ground, or wall,or projecting, or awning/canopy/marquee signs are installed. • Addressing signs City-wide, nonconforming provisions from the Zoning Code should be added to recognize current administrative practices. Also, upon closure of business, nonconforming signs (not all signs) should be removed. • Continue to prohibit A-frame signs. Address directional signs after design issues are addressed for major Downtown projects (e.g. Transit Center and Daily Project). • Electronic message boards,excluding public service signs,would be prohibited City-wide. • A small amount of animation (20%) would be allowed on projecting or wall signs in the City Center if they meet certain criteria. • In the City Center area, sign modifications and sign incentives should be allowed to encourage creativity, common sign themes, and recognize special circumstances of development in the City Center which may not warrant review as a variance,but need to be recognized as a unique case. • Wall signs should be located on the business facades which front a street, or on other facades having public entrances to a business. • Freestanding sign height is recommended to be 15 feet, and these signs will need to ensure no interference with driveways or traffic aisles. • Projecting signs should extend no more than 4 feet over a public sidewalk. • Staff recommends that the preliminary draft amendments be forwarded for review by the public at a workshop. BACKGROUND SUMMARY: Summary of Public Workshop Public notice of a workshop was mailed to about 400 addresses to persons who own property or businesses in the Downtown area, members of the Gateways Committee, and other related interest groups. The first in a series of public workshops was held on June 12, 1997 at "Delancy's on Third" in Downtown Renton. Approximately twenty five citizens participated, including two Planning Commissioners,and Council President Kathy Keolker-Wheeler. The workshop was facilitated by City staff from the Long Range Planning and Technical Services Division, Development Services Division, and Transportation Systems Division,as well as the City's Economic Development Director, and staff from the consulting firm Stalzer and Associates. The results of the Workshop are shown in Attachment A. Participants were interested in studying not only the Downtown area, but also other nearby corridors such as Rainier Avenue, Grady Way, and others. However, some thought those corridors should be studied later in order to concentrate on the Downtown area. July 2, 1997 Neww Page 3 In terms of sign comments, there was general agreement that new roof signs should be prohibited. Smaller freestanding signs were supported. New allowances for awning/canopy signs and projecting signs were well received. There was sentiment to prohibit blinking, flashing, or revolving signs, and electronic message boards. There were comments about ensuring there are allowances for murals related to a business activity,and much discussion about allowing A-frame signs. Two more workshops are planned to review draft code language, one in mid-July and one in August 1997. A formal public hearing before the City Council is anticipated in September 1997. Summary of Proposed Code Attachment B-1 summarizes key sign standards. Attachment B-2 provides the proposed code amendment language which, subsequent to City Council review,would be presented at the next public workshop anticipated in mid-July 1997. The code amendments are presented in three parts: • Proposed City Center Sign Code Regulations - regulations establishing the City Center Sign Regulation Area and associated sign standards. • Related Amendments - amendments needed in other sections to coordinate with the City Center amendments;some of these affect provisions City-wide as discussed below. • Housekeeping Amendments - amendments needed to correct references, delete language tied to zoning classifications which do not exist anymore, delete conflicting code language, and clarify requirements based upon the current administration of the Sign Code. The following table describes generally the major amendments, and which would apply just to the City Center, and which would apply City-wide. KEY AMENDMENTS AND WHERE THEY WOULD APPLY CITY CENTER AMENDMENTS CITY WIDE AMENDMENTS Sign standards with: Allow for formation of special sign districts in the purpose and scope. This formally recognizes • New allowances for projecting signs, that special districts like the City Center Sign awning signs, and canopy signs over the Regulation Area can be created. public right-of-way. • Sections requiring choices between sign types (e.g. choose between freestanding or ground or wall signs; choose between projecting or awning signs) to help reduce sign clutter, yet allow flexibility for businesses. • Smaller sign faces in general,better scaled to character of the streets and buildings in the July 2, 1997 *"' Page 4 CITY CENTER AMENDMENTS CITY WIDE AMENDMENTS City Center area. Allow for sign incentives for coordinated sign New definitions for awning, canopy, plans having a theme, and externally illuminated illumination, ground sign, traditional marquee signs. sign, multi-building complex, multi-occupancy building, sign, single occupancy building, and street frontage. Allow for sign modifications for unique signs In list of exemptions from sign permit, allow which are in keeping with the building/site awnings and canopies having no signage. character, but which vary from normal requirements. Non-conforming sign provisions: Close of Business: In the City Center, at the time a business elects to Instead of requiring all signs to be removed upon put up a new freestanding, ground, wall, close of business, require only that projecting, or awning/canopy/marquee sign, any nonconforming signs be removed. New non-conforming signs would need to be removed businesses could replace the faces of signs that or made conforming. are conforming. Although there will be a general ban on animated, Non-conforming regulations: flashing, or revolving signs, there would be an exception for a minimal amount of animation These provisions indicate how an existing on signs in the City Center if the animation is business could maintain any existing not on any lettering, and if it is less than 20% of nonconforming signage The proposed the sign, as well as meeting other criteria. This amendments repeats language from the Zoning still prevents electronic message boards, and Code about how nonconforming signs may be flashing letters,but allows for unique signs which altered or repaired, and at what point they would have logos or pictures which have a little need to be made more or completely conforming. animation(e.g. animation showing coffee pouring This section would incorporate current practice in a cup). from the Zoning Code. Public Art Commission Decision: Currently, the Commission has 90 days to return a decision about whether something is public art. Amendments would shorten the turn-around to 45 days. This will help staff better meet the overall timeline of the Renton Regulatory Reform Ordinance which is a maximum of 120 days from receipt of a complete application. No animated, blinking, flashing or revolving signs anywhere except public service signs. This means no electronic message boards, except July 2, 1997 No" Nome Page 5 CITY CENTER AMENDMENTS CITY WIDE AMENDMENTS public service signs such as time and temperature. There will also be an exception for a minimal amount of animation on signs in the City Center if the animation is not on any lettering, and if it is less than 20% of the sign, as well as meeting other criteria. Issues City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries The proposed City Center Sign Regulation Area is shown in Attachment C. The boundaries are called the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries since they include not only the Downtown Core, but other related Commercial Arterial areas(e.g.the S. 2nd and S. 3rd Street corridors). Also,there are several Comprehensive Plan and Zoning districts and overlay districts which contain the word Downtown, and the City Center title should help avoid confusion. The staff recommended boundaries differ from the original Downtown Study Area which were based upon boundaries utilized during the background analysis for the Comprehensive Plan Update. In comparison to the original study area,the staff proposed boundaries would exclude certain areas along Rainier Avenue, and Airport Way which are more arterial commercial in nature and which are not as interrelated to the Downtown area as are other corridors (e.g. the S. 2nd and S. 3rd Street corridors). The east side of Rainier Avenue at S. 3rd Street would be included because it is a gateway to the City Center. For ease of administering the Sign Code,the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries include the MF- U areas near the Cedar River and near Fifth Street South. In general, based on the housekeeping amendments, staff is more fully clarifying that residential areas are subject to different sign standards than business areas. Inclusion of MF-U areas would not allow these residential uses to utilize the business sign standards being proposed in the City Center area. Inclusion of MF-U areas would create more understandable boundaries, and if there are any future rezones from MF-U to Center Downtown, for example, there wouldn't be a need to amend the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries at the same time. Non-conforming Signs There are a range of options which can address the removal of nonconforming signage. These options include amortization, requiring removal of nonconforming signage when a business closes, requiring compliance if a sign face is replaced, requiring compliance if the work on the sign exceeds 50%of its value,etc. Currently, the Sign Code indicates that all signage, conforming or non-conforming, needs to be removed upon closure of the business. There are no regulations about nonconforming signs in the Sign Code,but in practice,the nonconforming provisions of the Zoning Code have been applied. July 2, 1997 Page 6 The proposed code takes a moderate approach, and essentially incorporates current practice with some changes: • City-wide. Instead of requiring all signs to be removed upon closure of a business, the amendments would require only that nonconforming signs be removed. New businesses could replace the faces of signs that are conforming. • City-wide. The proposed sign code amendments would formally repeat language from the Zoning Code about how existing businesses could alter or repair nonconforming signs, and at what point they would need to be made more or completely conforming (e.g. when cost of alteration or repair exceeds 50%of the value of the sign). In any case,the faces of nonconforming signs could be replaced by existing businesses if there are no alterations to the sign structure or electrical parts. • City Center Area. In the City Center, at the time a business elects to put up a new freestanding, ground, wall, projecting, or awning/canopy/marquee sign, any non- conforming signs would need to be removed or made conforming. As an example of how the regulations would work in the City Center, since roof signs will no longer be allowed in the City Center, existing roof signs would become nonconforming. The faces of nonconforming signs can be replaced by existing businesses if no structural or electrical alteration is made. Repair or alteration of nonconforming signs by existing businesses would be allowed up to 50%of the value of the sign. However, if the existing business wishes to install a new freestanding, ground, wall, projecting, or awning/canopy/marquee sign, the roof sign would need to be removed when the new signage is installed. If an existing business does not install any of the listed signs, the existing roof sign could remain until the business vacates the premises when all nonconforming signage must be removed. A-Frames and Directional Signs Should A-frame signs be allowed in the Downtown area? Participants at the workshop discussed this issue extensively. Many felt that A-frames should be allowed if limited in terms of number and location. A few thought that too many A-frames are messy. Also, if projecting signs are allowed again,would A-frames be necessary? Model codes vary in their treatment of portable signs such as A-frames. In A Guideline Code for the Municipal Regulation of On-Premise Signs (National Electric Sign Association, 1991), "The use of portable signs can create special problems because they usually cannot meet structural or electrical requirements, and many sign users abuse setback and placement standards. If they are allowed, they should require permits and be restricted to specific time periods." In Street Graphics and the Law (Mandelker and Ewald 1988),the model ordinance prohibits portable signs. The book notes that case law has supported restricting portable signs by allowing them only on a temporary basis. Locally,Auburn allows A-frames,but not in the public right-of-way. Kent allows them as temporary signs for a maximum of 90 days. However, enforcement has been difficult. Kirkland does not allow A-frame signs at all. Olympia allows one A-frame sign per street-level business in various zoning districts including the Downtown, subject to conditions addressing avoiding interference with car doors, pedestrian aisles, location in front of the business only during operating hours, hold harmless agreements, and size restrictions. July 2, 1997 �.•- Page 7 The disadvantages of A-frame signs are that any restrictions are difficult to enforce. Comments from staff in the Transportation Operations Division, and the City's Code Enforcement staff indicate that allowances for A-frame signs raise potential traffic/pedestrian safety issues and would result in the need for heavy enforcement by a limited staff. Also, allowing A-frame signs in the Downtown area could open up the issue for other zoning districts, since portable signs are currently prohibited throughout the City(except real estate open house signs). A possible alternative to A-frame signs would be the use of multi-business directory signs placed on poles in the sidewalk. Several downtown merchants have shown an interest in this approach in past months. Examples are shown in Attachment D. Kirkland allows such signs on a case-by-case basis if there is a demonstrated need due to poor visibility or traffic patterns. Bellevue allows them by variance if an on-site direction sign would be inadequate to reasonably apprise the public of the location of the premises. As proposed, A-frame signs would continue to be prohibited due to traffic safety and pedestrian concerns, difficulty in enforcement, and because sign standards in the City Center will now allow projecting signs over public rights-of-way. Directory signs are also not proposed at this time due to allowances for projecting signs, but also because these signs might be better addressed after design and signage are decided for the major Downtown projects such as the Transit Center and Dally project. Animated Signs-Electronic Message Boards Based upon comments at the public workshop, no animated, blinking, flashing or revolving signs would be allowed anywhere except public service signs. This means no electronic message boards, except public service signs, such as signs which show time and temperature. This would apply City- wide as proposed in the amendments. There will also be an exception for a minimal amount of animation on wall signs or projecting signs in the City Center if the animation is not on any lettering,and if it is less than 20%of the sign, as well as meeting other criteria. This is to allow for some creativity(e.g. the look of coffee pouring into a cup), yet avoid a sign which would be distracting. Sign Modifications and Sign Incentives Comments from the workshop indicated support towards establishing a theme or common look for signs in the City Center area. This could be accomplished by offering incentives. The City of Kirkland allows increased aggregate signage area (25%) if all of an applicant's signs are externally illuminated, or all are building mounted. Regarding coordinated sign plans, the City allows deviation from sign code requirements, although these are not specified. In the model ordinance in Sign Regulation for Small and Midsize Communities (Kelly and Raso, 1989), a 25%increase in aggregate sign area is allowed for owners of two or more contiguous lots if a coordinated sign plan is approved which provide consistent standards for color, style,lighting,material,location,proportion,etc. The proposed amendments would allow sign bonuses in the City Center for the following proposals: • Coordinated Sign Plans, where the owners of two or more owners of contiguous lots prepare a plan which provides consistent standards for the color, style, lighting, material, July 2, 1997 Page 8 location, proportion, and other features of all signs. The signs must be pedestrian- oriented. • Externally lit or unlit signs,where no signs located on a business are internally lighted. Bonuses would allow increases in sign area, and they would allow authorized sign area to be combined. Wall Sign:Facades With No Street Frontage;Size As proposed wall signs would be allowed as: • Category A - one wall sign per ground level business facade in a multi-tenant building or multiple building complex; otherwise, one wall sign per business facade having street frontage. • Category C -Secondary entrance sign at one per public entrance. -Multi-occupancy wall sign listing tenants at one per public entrance. The signs are to be attached to the business facade to which they are associated, or above or immediately adjacent to a public entrance. Multi-occupancy wall signs would not be allowed on facades which do not front on a street and which do not have a public entrance. Walls with no public entrances could lie adjacent to parking lots. An issue is should multi-occupancy wall signs be allowed on facades fronting a parking lot? Over time, with the probable buildout of much of the Downtown area at zero setbacks and full lot coverage,wall signs on facades without public entrances should not be an issue,but it may be an issue during the transition to more intensive development. Because of this and because of the proposed sign modification process for signs in the City Center which could allow for alternate location of allowed wall signs,wall signs on facades without public entrances are not proposed at this time. In terms of size of wall signs, Category A wall signs would be scaled according to the frontage a building has along a street: 1 and 1/2 square feet per foot of lineal building frontage, up to a maximum of 100 square feet. See Attachment E for examples. This formula is adequate for a majority of businesses because most building fronts are small. However, buildings with frontages over 65 feet could have wall signs greater than 100 square feet using the formula if the cap were not proposed. No change in the cap is proposed because the instances where this would occur are not anticipated to be numerous, other sign types could also be used in addition to wall signs (e.g. projecting signs), and there is a proposed modification process. No concerns were raised at the first workshop regarding the cap. Height of Freestanding Signs The proposed amendments would limit freestanding signs (also called pole signs)to 15 feet in height. Some participants at the workshop proposed alternate height requirements. Some thought the height should be 20 feet. Others thought that there should be 15 feet of clearance to the bottom of the sign, particularly near traffic aisles which would mean,that the top of the sign should be about 20 feet high. July 2, 1997 Page 9 Based upon the report Sign Regulation for Small and Midsize Communities (Kelly and Raso 1989), "An ideal sign height for auto visibility on a city street with a 35-mile-per-hour speed limit is a height that puts a sign comfortably within the windshield frame at a distance ranging from 80 to 400 feet... Clearly a sign height of 15 to 20 feet or so serves that purpose nicely, and one of 25 feet or more is likely to make it impossible to see the sign as the auto nears it. In Street Graphics and the Law (Mandelker and Ewald 1988), a suggested sign height for a sign on a 4-lane road with a posted speed of 30 miles per hour is 18 feet. The speed limit on S. Second and S. Third Streets is 25 miles per hour. The Sign Code prohibits signs within 20 feet of intersections or driveways from obscuring vision between the height of 3 feet and 10 feet. Regarding clearance, the Uniform Building Code, for example,requires 13'6"clearance for canopies over drive-through windows. Maximum sign heights in Auburn, Kent, and Kirkland are 35 feet, 30 feet single-tenant/15 feet multi- tenant,and 20 feet respectively. Kent requires a clearance of 15 feet over driveways. The recommendation is to propose a 15 foot height limit. Businesses would have to locate these away from traffic aisles and driveways. This height meets the recommended height range of 15 to 20 feet described above. Projecting Signs-Distance of Projection over Sidewalk Projecting signs (signs attached perpendicular to a building) are currently prohibited from extending over public rights-of-way. The proposed amendments would allow projecting signs over public rights- of-way in the City Center area. The maximum projection would be 4 feet. This is the maximum projection found in the model code from Street Graphics and the Law(Mandelker and Ewald 1988). Other alternative projections are allowed in various local jurisdictions: • Auburn-2 feet • Bellevue-5 feet • Olympia-3 feet • Sea-Tac-6 feet • Seattle-6 feet A 4 foot projection is proposed in the amendments, and would be a moderate allowance compared to the range shown above. The size of projecting signs would be limited by a maximum sign height of 3 feet, and also based upon whether the sign is internally or externally illuminated. Larger sign faces would be permitted for externally illuminated signs. There would be a minimum clearance above a sidewalk of 8 feet. July 2, 1997 Page 10 CONCLUSION: The proposal creates sign regulations which more specifically address the character of the City Center area. Sign standards would result in signage better suited to the scale and character of the City Center. Staff recommends that the preliminary draft amendments be forwarded for review by the public at a workshop. Attachments: Attachment A-Workshop Results Attachment B -Summary of Sign Standards/Proposed Preliminary Draft Code Amendments Attachment C -City Center Sign Regulation Area Map Attachment D-Directional Sign Examples Attachment E- Sign Size Standards Example cc: Jay Covington City Clerk CCISSUEI.DOC ATTACHMENT A WORKSHOP RESULTS METHODOLOGY Notes: Approximately 25 citizens participated in the workshop held June 12, 1997. After a general introduction to signs and issues, participants divided into small groups. The comments of each group were hung on the walls around the room. Each person was given colored dots (4 blue dots for Study Area comments and 6 orange dots for Sign comments) which they could place next to the comment or comments they felt most strongly about. All dots could be placed on one comment or scattered among the different comments. On the following pages, where a comment received one or more votes the results are indicated with an asterisk(*)and the number of votes. The results of the"voting" should be viewed in the context of the overall size of the group,and the methodology for voting. DOWNTOWN SIGN CODE WORKSHOP# 1 STUDY AREA COMMENTS • Focus on Downtown area. *13 • Both sides of street should be treated the same. *12 • Keep original study area plus Grady Way. *9 • Include Grady Way. *8 • Downtown should have different signs than larger corridors -no large flashy signs. *8 • Future study of Rainier and Grady Way. *7 • Airport Way and Rainier-include-part of future Downtown-pedestrian oriented 1/2 mile. *5 • Grady Way is different from pedestrian/walking area of Downtown. *2 • Take in Airport Way to Rainier. *2 • Look at Logan Avenue-businesses on west side of street? *2 • Eliminate Sub Shop and other businesses at Logan&Airport Way from district. *1 • Address larger corridors. *1. • Look at Grady Way now. • Southern boundary-Grady. • Cedar River south to 5th or 6th. • Walking Corridor 1/2 block from Rainier near Shattuck. STDYARA.DOC\ 1 DOWNTOWN SIGN CODE WORKSHOP#1 COMMENTS ON IDEAS FOR DOWNTOWN SIGN REGULATIONS ROOF SIGNS • Prohibited. *4 • Agree-prohibit roof signs. Street grid too tight to see. *2 • Eliminate roof signs. *1 • Roof signs OK if small and tasteful. *1 • Downtown visible from freeways. Roof signs can help visibility. • Transition to pedestrian environment; recognize transit corridors. Look at Urban Village concept. Other cities prohibit roof signs. FREESTANDING(POLE)SIGNS • Height of traffic lights in relation and height of pole sign - 20 feet? Pole sign should be above the traffic lights. *3 • Scaled down to 20' high. *1 • No pole signs over sidewalk/R-OW. 0' setback is okay. *1 • Pole signs. clearance of sign in traffic aisle- 15 ft. • Pole signs over R-O-W? Question. • Limit size of face of signs -25'. • Pole signs -don't exceed height of building. • OK over the R-O-W. • Smaller size. • Relate number to size of property. WALL SIGNS • Murals -art or signs? What criteria? *2 • Wall murals. *1 • Allow murals. 2 • Question about City Hall (old), allowing signage along top of building. Question about signage on windows if permanent. • Wall signs -20%of facade. Cap sq. ft. per business - 100 sq. ft. OK. CANOPY/AWNING SIGN • Yes,we like them. *7 • Awning lettering-allow on vertical face-OK. Graphics OK. *4 • Exterior lighting is OK. *3 • Signage on awnings is in addition to 20%for wall signs. *2 • Provide incentives? Upkeep-or to put them in. *1 • Lighting-should we allow illuminated awnings? Some concern. *1 • Are marquees the same as awnings? *1 • Illumination issue. *1 • Durable material is OK. *1 • Blend in with building. *1 • Limit amount of lettering. • Clarify - can have awnings, canopies. Have clearance height - 8 1/2' (Kent)? How are they fastened. • Fabric-long term maintenance. Heavier fabric. • Illuminate awnings/canopies. Backlighting okay. • Sq. ft. of copy on awning, should depend on the sq. ft. of awnings. PROJECTING SIGNS • Should be allowed: 75%of sidewalk up to maximum of 6 ft. wide. *8 • Projecting-good-not too big. *4 • Allow signage like Brookstone sign-size? *3 • No flashing or blinking. *3 • Maximum size. *3 3 *toe N40.0 • Common"look". *1 • Minimum size. *1 • Rotating is questionable. *1 • Restrict to over the street entrance. On second story if smaller is okay. *1 • Material-banners okay. *1 • Make sure there is clearance for pedestrian safety. *1 • Necessary. • Limit distance over sidewalk. • Second story business should have projecting. • Number of projecting signs - 1 per business. • Or,business identif with list. GROUND SIGN • Restrict the number. *2 • Ground sign as choice. • OK-staff ideas. UNDER CANOPY/AWNING SIGN • Consistent"look"or"theme". *1 • Under signs are OK. SIZE OF LETTERING • Makes sense. A-FRAMES/SANDWICH BOARDS • Limit the number and location. *4 • Allow them. *4 • Allow A-Boards. *3 • Too many A-frames looks messy. *2 4 Noe ,vige • A-boards -problems, interfere with pedestrians. If we have projecting signs, do we need A-frames? *1 • A-Frames. *1 • A-boards weather easily. Enforcement of maintenance, location, size and condition. • A-frames-okay. (No mechanical) • Limit size and number. • Limit location. • Limit the size. • Size of A-frame-study other jurisdictions. GENERAL COMMENTS • Common"look"or"theme"for downtown. *7 • Common sign"look"or"theme"for downtown. *5 • Don't have blinking,flashing or revolving signs anywhere. *5 • No electronic message signs (reader boards)except time&temp. *4 • No mechanical signs. *3 • Temporary banners are okay. *2 • Continuity of sign shapes -theme,lettering type. *2 • Neon OK. *1 • Backlit signs OK. MISCELLANEOUS • Would like outside display special times of year. Address in zoning code. *2 • Umbrellas -maintenance. • Neon. • Temporary signs on trucks. • Reader Boards. WKI SIGN.DOC\ 5 ATTACHMENT B-1 Now ,400, SIGN ALLOWANCES SUMMARY CHART SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN CATEGORY A Freestanding OR Ground OR Wall Select only one of the following sign types: Number 1 per street frontage 1 per street frontage 1 per business facade fronting on a Maximum of 2 Maximum of 2 public street. signs. signs. For multi-occupancy buildings or multiple building complexes,1 per ground-level tenant with an exterior business facade. Mix of options Can substitute a Category A sign for another Category A sign,but can't exceed total allowable number of signs. Maximum Size 1 and 1/2 s.f.per 1 and 1/2 s.f.per 1 and 1/2 s.f.per lineal feet of street lineal feet of street lineal feet of frontage which the frontage which the business facade building or complex building or complex fronting on a public occupies up to a occupies up to a street,up to a maximum of 25 s.f maximum of 25 s.f. maximum 100 s.f. per face. per face. Maximum Height 15 ft. 5 ft. Placed not more than 25 ft.above grade. CATEGORY B Projecting OR Awning Sign,or Canopy Sign,or Select only one of the Marquee Sign,or following sign types. Traditional Allowed in addition Marquee Sign to Category A signs. Number 1 per business 1 per business facade fronting on a facade fronting on a public street. public street. For multi- For multi- occupancy buildings occupancy buildings or multiple building or multiple building complexes, 1 per complexes, 1 per ground-level tenant ground-level tenant with an exterior with an exterior business facade. business facade. Maximum Size External or tube 50 s.f.of copy- illumination-12 must locate on s.f. vertical face. Internal illumi- Traditional nation-10 s.f. Marquee-150 s.f. per face. Maximum Height or Placed not more Height of structure Placement than 25 ft above max.10 ft.;8 ft. grade.Min.8 ft. clearance;can't be clearance. above roofline. SUMC{T.DOC\ Now vole SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN CATEGORY C Under Awning/ AND Secondary Wall, AND Multi-Occupancy Under Canopy/ Projecting,or Building,or Allowed in addition Under Marquee Awning Sign, Multiple Building to signs of Category Externally Complex Wall Sign A and B: Illuminated Number 1 per ground-level I externally One 1 per building business per public illuminated sign per facade containing a entrance. public entrance public pedestrian from an adjacent entrance. parking lot, pedestrian walkway, or alley. Size 6 s.f. 6 s.f. 100 s.f.max. Size restricted by copy height of 6 inches per business. Height or Placement Placed minimum 8 Above or Placed not more ft.above sidewalk. immediately than 25 ft.above adjacent to grade. entryway. SUMCHT.DOC\ 'tow *.weATTACHMENT B-2 1 2 PROPOSED CITY CENTER SIGN CODE REGULATIONS 3 4 4-20-12H. City Center Sign Regulations 5 1. Applicability and Purpose. 6 a. Applicability. The sign standards of this subsection shall apply to the property 7 contained within the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries as shown in 8 Exhibit A. generally described as including: land which is zoned Center 9 Downtown, excluding lots located on Logan Avenue, north of the intersection 10 at Airport Way; land zoned Commercial Arterial which lies east of Lake 11 Avenue South, and between Tobin Street South and South Second Street; and 12 land zoned Commercial Arterial which lies between South Second Street and 13 South Third Place, and east of Rainier Avenue South, excluding parcels which 14 have frontage on Rainier Avenue South and lie more than one hundred and fifty 15 five (155) feet north of the South Third Street intersection: and land zoned 16 Multi Family - Urban which lies between the Cedar River and South Second 17 Street, and between Houser Way South and South Fifth Street. 18 b. Purpose. The purpose of the City Center Sign Regulations is to provide sign 19 standards and regulations which recognize and strengthen the unique character 20 of the City Center area businesses and streets,provide for appropriate signage 21 which contributes to the economic vitality of the area and which complements 22 its environment, and to enhance the pedestrian orientation of the district. 23 2. Type and Number of Signs Allowed. 24 25 a. Permanent Signs. 26 27 TYPE AND NUMBER OF PERMANENT SIGNS 28 SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN CATEGORY A Freestanding OR Ground OR Wall Select only one of the following sign types: Number One(1)free- One(1)ground sign Each individual standing sign per per street frontage ground-level street frontage for for each single business may have each single occupancy building, one(1)wall sign for occupancy building multi-occupancy each business facade located on a corner building,or fronting on a public lot,multi- multiple building street:in multiple occupancy building, complex. The building complexes, or multiple building maximum number or for multi- complex. The of signs is two(2). occupancy buildings maximum number each ground-level of signs is two(2). tenant with an extgrior business 7/2/97 1 SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN facade may have one (1)wall sign to identify individual tenant spaces. Mix of options An applicant for a business having more than one street frontage may substitute an allowed Category A sign type for another Category A sign type;however,the maximum number of signs shall not be exceeded. For example,on a corner lot,an applicant may request one ground sign facing one street frontage, and one freestanding sign facing the other street frontage. CATEGORY B Projecting OR Awning Sian,or Canovv Sign,or Select only one of the Marquee Sign,or following sign types. Traditional Allowed in addition Marquee Sign to signs of Category A. Number Each individual Each individual ground-level ground-level business may have business may have one(1)sign for one(1)sign for each business each business facade fronting on a facade fronting on a public street;in public street:in multiple building multiple building complexes,or for complexes,or for multi-occupancy multi-occupancy buildings each buildings each ground-level tenant ground-level tenant with an exterior with an exterior business facade may business facade may have one(1)sign to have one(1)sign to identify individual identify individual tenant spaces. tenant spaces. A series of awnings or canopies upon a single business and located on a single street frontage are considered as one awning or canopy. 7/2/97 2 29 I SIGN CATEGORY TYPE AND NUMBER OF SIGN CATEGORY C Under Awning/ AND Secondary Wall, AND Multi-Occupancy Under Canopv/ Proiectina.or Building,or Allowed in addition Under Marquee Awning Sian, Multiple Building to signs of Category Externally Complex Wall Sign A and B: Illuminated Number —One(1)per ground- One(1)externally One(1)per building level business per illuminated sign per facade containing a public entrance. public entrance public pedestrian from an adjacent entrance to the parking lot, multi-occupancy pedestrian walkway, building,or multiple or alley. building complex where separate Where a secondary structures are sign is used,a physically attached. business may not also install the exempt non- illuminated wall sign referenced in Section 4-20-3C6. 30 31 b. Temporary/Special Permit Signs. In addition to the permanent signs described 32 in Subsection H2a above,the following signs are allowed. 33 34 (1) Temporary Signs per Section 4-20-9 of this Chapter. 35 36 (2) Special Permit Signs per Section 4-20-10 of this Chapter. 37 38 3. Sign Dimensions/Additional Limitations: 39 SIGN DIMENSIONS/ADDITIONAL LIMITATIONS 40 PERMANENT SIGNS MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REOUIRED SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES SIGN TYPE DIMENSIONAL (Refer also to LIMITATIONS Section 4-20-4C & Section 4-20-5) a. FREE- (1) Each sign (2) Fifteen(15) (3) Minimum STANDING shall not feet,measured fifteen(15) exceed an area to the top of foot clearance greater than the sign or above traffic one and one- sign structure, aisles and 7/2/97 3 MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES SIGN TYPE DIMENSIONAL (Refer also to LIMITATIONS Section 4-20-4C & Section 4-20-5) half(1-1/2) whichever is driveways. square feet for higher. each lineal foot of street frontage which the building or complex occupies up to a maximum of twenty-five (25) square feet per face; the maximum cumulative square footage of all faces of a sign is fifty (50)square feet. b. GROUND (1) Each sign (2) Five(5)feet if shall not perpendicular exceed an area to the right-of- greater than way;four(4) one and one- feet if the sign half(1-1/2) is not placed square feet for perpendicular each lineal to the right-of- foot of street way. Height frontage which is measured to the building or the top of the complex sign or sign occupies up to structure, a maximum of whichever is twenty five higher. (25)square feet per face; the maximum cumulative square footage of all faces of a sign is fifty (50)square 7/2/97 4 MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REOUIRED SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES SIGN TYPE DIMENSIONAL (Refer also to LIMITATIONS Section 4-20-4C & Section 4-20-5) feet. c. WALL (1) Each sign (3) The wall sign (4) The sign shall (6) When shall not shall be placed be mounted on projecting exceed an area on the facade or above the over a public greater than not more than business right-of-way, one and one- twenty-five facade to a minimum of half(1-1/2) (25)feet which it is eight(8)feet square feet for above the associated. clearance each lineal grade. above the foot of (5) The thickness surface of the business of that portion sidewalk is facade of a wall sign re uq ired. fronting a which projects street,up to over public one hundred right-of-way (100)square shall not feet exceed twelve maximum. (12)inches. (2) For a building having more than one business frontage with street frontage, allowable sign area may not be combined and consolidated into one sign. d. PROJECT- (1) Signs which (3) Projecting (4) The sign shall (8) When ING are externally signs shall not be no more projecting illuminated, be located than three(3) over a public and/or which more than feet tall. right-of-way, solely have twenty-five a minimum of tube (25)feet (5) A projecting eight(8)feet illumination, above the sign may clearance are allowed a grade, extend over above the maximum of measured to the public surface of the twelve(12) the top of the right-of-way sidewalk is 7/2/97 5 New MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES SIGN TYPE DIMENSIONAL (Refer also to LIMITATIONS Section 4-20-4C & Section 4-20-5) square feet per sign or sign by no more required. face;the structure than four(4) maximum whichever is feet from the cumulative higher. wall it is square footage mounted on. of all faces of a sign is (6) The faces of a twenty four projecting sign (24)square shall be feet. separated by a maximum of (2) Signs which twelve(12) are internally inches. illuminated are allowed a (7) The sign shall maximum of be mounted on ten(10) or above the square feet per business face:the facade to maximum which it is cumulative associated. square footage of all faces of a sign is twenty(20) square feet. e. AWNING (1) Awning, (3) Sign copy (9) Sign SIGN. Canopy,or shall only be structures CANOPY Marquee Sign: located on the shall be SIGN. A maximum vertical faces located a MARQUEE of fifty(50) of the awning, minimum of SIGN square feet of canopy,or eight(8)feet copy may marquee. above the appear on the surface of the vertical face (4) Maximum sidewalk. area. height/ Where under thickness of awning,under (2) Traditional awning/ canopy, or Marquee Sign: canopy with a under marquee The maxi- sign:ten(10) signs are mum copy feet• anticipated, area is one the clearance hundred fifty (5) Maximum should be 7/2/97 6 MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REOUIRED SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES SIGN TYPE DIMENSIONAL (Refer also to LIMITATIONS Section 4-20-4C & Section 4-20-5) (150)square height/ increased to feet per face: thickness of accommodate the cumulative marquee: in them as square footage accordance necessary. of all faces of with the a sign is three adopted hundred(300) edition of the square feet Uniform total. Building Code. (6) Canopy poles shall not be placed in a manner which interferes with pedestrian or wheelchair travel upon a sidewalk. (7) Awnings., canopies, and marquees and the attached or associated signs may extend over the right-of- way according to the terms of the adopted Uniform Building Code. (8) The sign shall be mounted above the business facade to which it is associated. 7/2/97 7 r✓ MAXIMUM MAXIMUM LOCATION REQUIRED SIGN AREA HEIGHT AND OTHER CLEARANCES SIGN TYPE DIMENSIONAL (Refer also to LIMITATIONS Section 4-20-4C & Section 4-20-5) f. UNDER (1) Six(6) square (2) The sign shall (3) Minimum AWNING, feet. not extend eight(8)feet UNDER beyond the above the CANOPY, awning, surface of the UNDER canopy, or sidewalk. MARQUEE marquee to SIGN which it is attached. g. SECOND- (1) Six(6)square (2) Attached (3) When ARY SIGN feet. immediately projecting above or over a public immediately right-of-way, adjacent to a minimum of public eight(8)feet entrance. clearance above the surface of the entryway is required. h. MULTI-OC- (1) The sign shall (2) The wall sign (3) The sign shall (4) When CUPANCY only contain shall be placed be attached to projecting OR the business on the facade a facade over a public MULTIPLE name and/or not more than containing a right-of--way, BUILDING logo of each twenty-five public a minimum of COMPLEX development. (25)feet entrance. eight(8)feet SIGN Sign size is above the clearance restricted by grade. above the lettering grade is height. The required. maximum square footage limitation is one hundred (100) square feet. 41 7/2/97 8 42 3. Maximum Size of Lettering. 43 MAXIMUM LETTER SIZE DISTANCE OF SIGN FREESTANDING, AWNING SIGN/ MULTI- FROM RIGHT-OF- GROUND, WALL, CANOPY SIGN/ OCCUPANCY OR WAY(ROW) PROJECTING, MARQUEE SIGN MULTIPLE TRADITIONAL BUILDING MARQUEE SIGN COMPLEX SIGN Within fifty(50)feet of Twenty four(24)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches (applies ROW: to copy and logo) Between fifty(50)feet Thirty six(36)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches (applies and one hundred(100) to copy and logol feet of the ROW: More than one hundred Forty eight(48)inches Twelve(12)inches Six(6)inches(applies (100)feet from the to copy and logo) ROW: 44 45 4. Sign Incentives. 46 a. Authority and Purpose. The Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator 47 may allow signage which does not meet the specific provisions of the City 48 Center sign standards when the proposed signage is intended to accomplish one 49 of the following purposes: 50 (1) Encourage pedestrian-oriented coordinated signs, where the owner of 51 the building(s) proposes consistent signage between two or more 52 businesses;or 53 (2) Encourage unlit or externally illuminated signs, where no sign related 54 to a business is internally illuminated. 55 b. Review Criteria. If the Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator 56 determines that the proposed sign(s) accomplishes one of the above purposes, 57 the Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator may allow the proposed 58 signage provided he/she finds it meets all of the following criteria: 59 (1) The proposed signage will be equal to. or superior in fulfilling the 60 purpose and scope of the sign regulations (Section 4-20-1B and 61 Section 4-20-12H1); and 62 (2) The proposed signage does not detract from the architectural features 63 of the building;and 7/2/97 9 64 (3) The proposed signage will not create a significant adverse impact to 65 other property or improvements in the immediate vicinity of the subject 66 property; and 67 (4) The proposed signage does not exceed the bonuses identified below; 68 and 69 (5) The proposed signage is not prohibited by this Chapter in Section 4- 70 20-8A; and 71 (6) The proposed signage does not create a public safety hazard; and 72 (7) In addition to the criteria above, coordinated sign proposals must also 73 meet all of the following criteria: 74 (A) The proposed signs provide consistency between the style, 75 lighting, material, and other features of the all the proposed 76 signs; and 77 (B) The proposed signs will be pedestrian oriented; and 78 (C) The proposed signs will be to legible pedestrians on the 79 sidewalk g sidewalk. 80 c. Allowance or bonus. If the Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator 81 determines that the proposed sign accomplishes one of the above purposes and 82 meets all of the review criteria,the following types of bonuses may be allowed: 83 (1) For unlit or externally lighted signs, the area of any individual 84 proposed signs may be increased by fifteen percent(15%). This bonus 85 shall not apply to freestanding, secondary, or under awning, under 86 canopy,or under marquee signs. 87 (2) For unlit or externally lit signs, any allowed sign area may be 88 combined to allow one large sign provided the resulting sign is not 89 increased more than thirty percent (30%) above the allowed sign area 90 for the proposed sign type. This bonus shall not apply to freestanding, 91 secondary,or under awning,under canopy,or under marquee signs. 92 (3) For coordinated signs, any allowed sign area may be combined to 93 allow any number of smaller wall and/or projecting signs. 94 5. Sign Modification. 95 a. Authority and Purpose. The Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator 96 may grant a modification from the sign standards for individual signs which do 97 not meet the specific provisions of the City Center sign standards when the 98 proposed sign is intended to accomplish one of the following purposes: 99 (1) Respond to the needs of the public in locating a residence or business 100 establishment; or 7/2/97 10 101 (2) Assist business in contributing to the economic well-being of the 102 community;or 103 (3) Install a sign that is considered to be historic or of historic value by the 104 advertising industry or a recognized historic preservation organization, 105 provided that such entity was not involved in the use, design or 106 production of the proposed sign. 107 b. Review Criteria. If the Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator 108 determines that the intent of the proposed sign accomplishes one of the above 109 purposes, the Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator may grant a 110 modification request provided the proposed sign also meets all of the following 111 criteria: 112 (1) The modification will be equal to, or superior in fulfilling the purpose 113 and scope of the sign regulations (Section 4-20-1B and Section 4-20- 114 12H1); and, 115 (2) The modification results in a creative and innovative sign design which 116 distinguishes the business establishment;and, 117 (3) The modification will not create a significant adverse impact to other 118 property or improvements in the immediate vicinity of the subject 119 property; and 120 (4) The modification will not increase the number of signs allowed by this 121 Chapter or allow a type of sign which is prohibited by this Chapter in 122 Section 4-20-8A;and 123 (5) The modification will not increase the allowed height or area of any 124 wall, projecting, awning/canopy/marquee/traditional marquee, or 125 secondary sign by more than fifty percent(50%); and 126 (6) The modification will not increase the allowed height or area of any 127 freestanding or ground sign;and 128 (7) The modification does not create a public safety hazard. 129 c. Proposals which do not meet the purposes or criteria of subsections H5a and 130 H5b above,may be reviewed as variance applications as provided in Section 4- 131 20-1C2. 132 7/2/97 11 133 134 - RELATED AMENDMENTS - 135 (SOME AFFECT SIGN REGULATIONS CITY-WIDE) 136 137 4-20-1 TITLE, SCOPE AND ENFORCEMENT: 138 *** 139 B. Purpose and Scope: 140 1. Purpose. It is the purpose of this Code to provide a means of regulating signs so as to 141 promote the health, safety, morals, general welfare, social and economic welfare and 142 esthetics of the City. Signs are erected to provide information for the benefit and 143 convenience of pedestrians and motorists and should not detract from the quality of 144 urban environment by being competitive or garish. Signs should complement and 145 characterize the environment which they serve to give their respective areas a unique 146 and pleasing quality. No - sha„ be erect a 147 The 148 regulations of this Code are not intended to permit any violations of any other lawful 149 ordinance. 150 building: 151 2. Scope. The purposes of this Chapter are implemented through the establishment of 152 standards for the type, placement, scale, and construction of signs which varies by 153 zoning district, or by sign overlay district. Sign overlay districts are intended to 154 maintain or create more unified commercial areas, or to enhance and strengthen the 155 special character of individual business districts. 156 *** 157 4-20-2 DEFINITIONS,-AND ABBREVIATIONS,AND MEASUREMENTS: 158 A. Definitions and abbreviations. 159 For the purpose of this Code, certain abbreviations,terms, phrases, words and their derivatives shall be 160 construed as specified in this Section. Words used in the singular include the plural, and the plural the 161 singular. Words used in the masculine gender include the feminine, and the feminine the masculine. 162 *** 163 AWNING: A shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a building. Awnings have 164 noncombustible frames, but may have combustible coverings. Awnings may be fixed. retractable, 165 folding or collapsible. Awnings shall not extend above any adjacent parapet or roof of supporting 166 building. 167 *** 168 BUSINESS FACADE: That portion of an exterior building wall owned or leased by a business. 169 *** 170 CANOPY, BUILDING: A rigid multi-sided structure covered with fabric, metal or other material and 171 supported by a building at one or more points or extremities and by columns or posts embedded in the 7/2/97 12 172 ground at other points or extremities. Canopies shall not extend above any adjacent parapet or roof of 173 supporting building. 174 175 *** 176 EXTERNAL ILLUMINATION: An artificial light source located outside of the sign and directed 177 towards the sign for purposes of illumination. 178 *** 179 GROUND SIGN: . Any sign other than a 180 freestanding pole sign, in which the sign is in contact with or close to the ground, has a solid base 181 anchor, and is independent of any other structure. 182 *** 183 • 184 sty 185 *** 186 INTERNAL ILLUMINATION: A light source that is concealed or contained within the sign and 187 becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface. 188 *** 189 MARQUEE SIGN, TRADITIONAL: A sign typically associated with movie theaters, performing arts 190 theaters, and theatrical playhouses. The sign is attached flat against and parallel to the surface of a 191 marquee structure. In addition, a changeable copy area is included where characters, letters, or 192 illustrations can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign. 193 *** 194 MULTIPLE BUILDING COMPLEX: A group of structures housing more than one type of retail 195 business,office or commercial venture and generally under one ownership and control. 196 MULTI-OCCUPANCY BUILDING: A single structure housing more than one type of retail business, 197 office or commercial venture and generally under one ownership and control. 198 *** 199 PROJECTING SIGN: A sign other than a wall sign which projects from and is supported by a wall of 200 a building or structure:, and does not extend above any adjacent parapet or roof of the supporting 201 building. 202 *** 203 SIGN: Any medium, including merchandise, its structure and component parts, which is used or 204 intended to be used to attract attention to the subject matter for advertising purposes. Signs do not 205 include sculptures, wall paintings, murals, collages, and other design features determined to be public 206 art by the City. 207 *** 7/2/97 13 Noe ,a,' 208 SINGLE OCCUPANCY BUILDING: A building or structure with one major enterprise, generally 209 under one ownership. A building is considered to be"single occupancy"if: 210 A. It has only one occupant and 211 B. It has no wall in common with another building;and 212 C. It has no part of its roof in common with another building. 213 *** 214 STREET FRONTAGE: 215 , 216 That side of a lot abutting on a public right-of-way, but excluding 217 the side of a lot which abuts a limited access highway, and excluding alleys. 218 *** 219 TUBE ILLUMINATION: A light source supplied by a tube which is bent to form letters, symbols, or 220 other shapes. 221 *** 222 UNDER MARQUEE SIGN: A lighted or unlighted display attached to the underside of a marquee 223 protruding over public or private sidewalks. Under marquee signs may also be called "under awning" 224 or"under canopy"signs. 225 *** 226 227 B. Measurements. 228 1. Height: Measured as the distance from grade, unless otherwise designated,to the top of 229 the sign or sign structure. 230 2. Sign Area: A measurement of the total area of a sign visible from any one 231 viewpoint or direction, excluding the sign support structure, architectural 232 embellishments, or framework which contains no written copy. Freestanding letters or 233 characters, where no background is specially provided, shall be measured by 234 determining the smallest rectangle or polygon which encloses the extreme limits of the 235 shapes to be used. 236 237 4-20-3 PERMITS,BONDS,APPLICATIONS,FEES AND INSPECTIONS: 238 *** 239 C. Exceptions: The following shall not require a sign permit. These exceptions shall not be 240 construed as relieving the owner of any sign from the responsibility of its erection, maintenance 241 and compliance with any other law or ordinance regulating the same. 242 *** 243 18. Signs or sign structures located within a building. 244 19. Awning,canopy,and marquee structures having no signage. 7/2/97 14 245 4-20-4 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION: 246 B. Construction: 247 *** 248 3. Restrictions on Combustible Materials: Freestanding and wall signs may be 249 constructed of any material meeting the requirements of this Code. Combination signs, 250 roof signs and signs on marquees shall be constructed of incombustible materials, 251 except as provided in paragraph 4 below. Projecting signs and under awning, under 252 canopy, or under marquee signs may be constructed of any material meeting the 253 requirements of this Code, including fire resistive treated wood. No combustible 254 materials other than approved plastics shall be used in the construction of electric signs. 255 (Ord. 3719,4-11-83) 256 *** 257 D. Obstruction: No sign or sign structure shall be erected in such a manner as to confine or 258 obstruct the view or interpretation of any official traffic sign, signal or device. 259 4-20-5 IGNS PROJECTING INTO SETBACKS AND RIGHTS-OF-WAY: 260 A. Projecting-sSigns projecting into setbacks or rights-of-way shall be designed in accordance with 261 the requirements specified in Section 4-20-4. 262 B. Projection and Clearance: 263 1. Projection into setback. 264 a. Signs may project within a legal setback a maximum of six feet(6'). 265 b. Ground signs which are six(6)feet or less in height may be installed within the 266 front yard setback in the landscape strip; provided, that the area described in 267 Section 4-20-8A6 is kept clear. 268 2. Projection into Rights-of-Way. 269 a. Where a legally constructed awning, canopy, or marquee exists which in itself 270 complies with the provisions of the Renton Building Code, an "under marquee" 271 sign, no larger than twelve inches (12") high by seventy two inches (72") long 272 by ten—twelve inches (4012") thick, may be suspended below the awning, 273 canopy, or marquee, provided the bottom of the sign is at least eight feet (8') 274 above the surface of the public or private sidewalk or walkway and the sign 275 does not extend beyond the awning, canopy, or marquee. 276 b. In the City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries defined in Section 4-20-12H, 277 under marquee signs may not exceed a maximum square footage of six (6) 278 square feet, with a maximum sign thickness of twelve inches (12"). The 279 bottom of the sign shall be at least eight feet(8')above the surface of the public 280 or private sidewalk or walkway, and the sign shall not extend beyond the 281 awning, canopy,or marquee. 7/2/97 15 282 c. Under marquee signs shall be limited to one such sign per entrance for each 283 business establishment. Under marquee signs may also be called "under 284 awning"or"under canopy"signs. 285 286 e€ eereetien. 287 43. All signs erected above or below a marquee which do not meet the requirements of 288 Section 4-20-6A shall comply with the requirements of this Section. 289 54. Signs and supporting sign structures may project within the public right-of- 290 way, as follows: 291 a. Wall Sign. The thickness of that portion of a wall sign which projects over 292 public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve inches (12"). (Ord. 3719,4-11-83) 293 b. City Center Sign Regulation Boundaries. In the City Center Sign Regulation 294 Boundaries defined in Section 4-20-12H, the following signs may project into 295 the public right-of-way: 296 (1) Wall Sign. The thickness of that portion of a wall sign which projects 297 over public right-of-way shall not exceed twelve inches (12"). 298 (2) Projecting Sign. A projecting sign may extend over the public right-of- 299 way no more than four(4)feet from the wall it is mounted on. No sign 300 shall extend into the public right-of-way to within less than two(2)feet 301 of the curbline. 302 (3) Awnings, Canopies and Marquees. Awnings, canopies, and marquees 303 and the attached or associated signs may extend over the right-of-way 304 according to the terms of the adopted Uniform Building Code. 305 C. All projecting signs, and signs which project into public rights-of-way. shall have affixed 306 thereon the name of the sign erector and the date of the erection. 307 4-20-6 AWNINGS, CANOPIES,AND MARQUEES 308 A. Signs may be placed on, attached to or constructed in a marquee. Such signs, over public or 309 private property, shall for the purpose of determining projection, clearance,height and material, 310 be considered part of and shall meet the requirements for a marquee as specified in the adopted 311 edition of the Uniform Building Code. (Ord. 4172, 9-12-88) 312 B. Signs may be painted, printed, or affixed upon awnings or canopies. Awnings and canopies 313 shall meet the applicable provisions of the adopted edition of the Uniform Building Code. 314 4-20-7 ELECTRIC SIGNS AND ILLUMINATION: 315 A. Electric signs shall be constructed of incombustible materials, except as specified in Section 4- 316 20-4. The enclosed shell of electric signs shall be watertight, excepting that service holes fitted 317 with covers shall be provided into each compartment of such signs. 7/2/97 16 ran+` %we 318 B. Installation: 319 1. Installation: Electrical equipment used in connection with display signs shall be 320 installed in accordance with local ordinances regulating electrical installation. 321 2. Erector's Name: Every electric sign projecting over any street or alley or public place 322 shall have the name of the sign erector and date of erection. Such name and date shall 323 be of sufficient size and contrast to be readable from a reasonable distance. Failure to 324 provide such name and date shall be grounds for rejection of the sign by the Building 325 Official. (Ord. 2504, 9-23-69) 326 3. Label Required: All electric signs shall bear the label of an approved testing agency. 327 C. Unless specifically restricted, signs may be internally or externally illuminated. 328 D. City Center Sign Animation Exception. The Planning[Building/Public Works Administrator 329 may allow signs containing intermittent or moving light or lights when the proposed sign meets 330 all of the following criteria: 331 1. The sign is proposed for installation upon a business which is located in the City Center 332 Sign Regulation Boundaries pursuant to Section 4-20-12H;and, 333 2. The sign is a permitted wall or projecting sign,pursuant to Section 4-20-12H;and, 334 3. The sign is characterized and documented as original or extraordinary by the standards 335 of the advertising industry or any industry or organization that designs, creates, or 336 reviews signs; and 337 4. The portion of the sign that contains blinking, flashing, intermittent or moving light or 338 lights may not contain any lettering: and, 339 5. The portion of the sign that contains blinking, flashing, intermittent or moving light or 340 lights is not more than twenty percent(20%)of the total sign area. 341 6. The sign will meet the provisions avoiding glare as stated in Section 4-20-4C6. 342 4-20-8 PROHIBITED SIGNS AND DEVICES, UNAUTHORIZED SIGNS, AND NON- 343 CONFORMING SIGNS: 344 A. The following signs or devices are specifically prohibited: 345 *** 346 3. All of the following signs with 347 any of the following features: animated, revolving 348 minute,blinking and flashing. Exceptions are public service signs, such as those which 349 give the time, temperature and/or humidity, and signs allowed under Section 4-20-7D, 350 City Center Sign Animation Exception. 351 *** 7/2/97 17 Nilo' vow 352 8. Signs over public right-of-way other than wall-signs specified in Section 4-20-5B, signs 353 per Section 4-20-9B, City-sponsored signs and public service signs per Section 4-20- 354 3C.14, 15, and 1 . 355 *** 356 11. Roof signs within the City Center Sign Regulation Area (Section 4-20-12H1) shall be 357 prohibited. 358 *** 359 C. Closure of Business: Upon the closure and vacation of a business or activity,the owner of said 360 business or activity shall have ninety (90) days from the date of closure to remove all 361 nonconforming signs relating to said business and activity. If the owner of said business or 362 activity fails to remove said signs within the designated time period, then the owner of the 363 property upon which said signs are located shall remove said signs within one hundred twenty 364 (120)days of said closure and vacation of premises. 365 D. Non-Conforming Signs. Any non-conforming signage which was erected prior to the effective 366 date of this Ordinance ( ), or which was erected legally in accordance with the 367 provisions of the sign ordinance in effect at the time of erection, or which has a valid building 368 permit from the City may remain in use subject to the following: 369 1. The changing of advertising copy or message thereon is permitted provided no 370 structural or electrical alteration is made. 371 2. The sign shall be kept in a safe condition. Nothing in this Chapter shall prevent the 372 strengthening or restoring to a safe condition of any portion of a sign declared unsafe 373 by a proper authority. Legal non-conforming signage is subject to all requirements of 374 this Code regarding safety,maintenance,and repair. 375 3. The cost of alterations of a legal nonconforming sign shall not exceed an aggregate cost 376 of fifty percent(50%)of the value of the sign, based upon its most recent assessment or 377 appraisal, unless the amount over fifty percent (50%) is used to make the sign more 378 conforming. Alterations shall not result in or increase any nonconforming condition. 379 4. The reconstruction, repairing, rebuilding and continued use of a nonconforming sign 380 damaged by fire, explosion, or act of God, subsequent to the effective date of these 381 regulations( ),may be allowed as follows: the work shall not exceed fifty 382 percent (50%) of the latest assessed or appraised value of the sign at the time such 383 damage occurred: otherwise, any restoration or reconstruction shall conform to the 384 regulations and standards specified in this Chapter. 385 5. City Center Sign Regulation Area. When a business elects to erect a sign allowed 386 under Category A or B, Section 4-20-12H2a,non-conforming signs shall be removed. 387 4-20-13PUBLIC ART EXEMPTION: 388 A. Applicability: 389 1. Objects of art are exempt from the requirements of the City's Sign Code when: 390 a. Sited in a manner as to be readily accessible to pedestrians for passive viewing; 7/2/97 18 391 b. Sited in a manner so as not to unduly divert the attention of motorists from the 392 roadway; 393 c. Stationary and do not revolve or otherwise move; 394 d. Not illuminated; 395 e. In good taste and reasonably reflect acceptable community values; 396 f. Of sufficient durability so as to have a life expectancy of at least ten (10) 397 years; 398 g. Not used or referred to in the media or by the owners of the premises or 399 operators of businesses contained thereon for business advertising purposes. 400 2. "Objects of art" for the purposes of this Section shall include, but not be limited to, 401 sculptures, wall paintings, murals, collages or banners by artists recognized by the 402 Renton Municipal Arts Commission and when consistent with guidelines, if any, 403 established by the Renton Municipal Arts Commission. 404 B. Application Procedure: 405 1. Before a proposed object of art may be exempted from the City's Sign Code, the 406 property owner or his/her representative shall apply for and be granted a public art 407 exemption certificate by the City. Applicants must submit an application with the 408 appropriate filing fees according to the City's established fee schedule, to the 409 Development Services Division of the Department of Planning/Building/Public Works. 410 The application shall include five (5) sets of photographs, scaled drawings, and/or 411 three-dimensional (3-D) depictions of the proposed objects/surfaces to be exempted, a 412 biographical sketch of the artist, and appropriate site plans and wall elevations 413 depicting the location of the objects of art. 414 2. If the City determines that there is no issue as to the artistic merit of the proposed 415 object, then the City may issue the applicant a public art exemption certificate. 416 Appeals from administrative decisions may be filed as referenced in Section 4-20-1C2. 417 3. If the City determines that there is an issue as to the artistic merit of the object, then 418 upon receipt of a completed application the Development Services Division shall 419 forward the application to the Renton Municipal Arts Commission for review and 420 recommendation and shall notify the applicant of the date the application was 421 transferred to the Commission. The Renton Municipal Arts Commission, following 422 adopted procedures, shall review and transmit to the Development Services Division a 423 I recommendation on the application not later than met-(90) forty-five (45) days from 424 the date of acceptance of a complete application, in accordance with the following 425 procedures: 7/2/97 19 *sr rrr+ 426 427 HOUSEKEEPING AMENDMENTS 428 429 4-20-9 TEMPORARY SIGNS: 430 *** 431 E. Political Signs: 432 *** 433 2. Political signs shall not be greater than thirty two (32) square feet if single-faced or 434 sixty four (64) square feet if multi-faced, except if such signs are on an off premises 435 sign structure regulated by Section 4 20 12C6 4-20-8A10. 436 *** 437 4-20-12 SIZE,NUMBER AND HEIGHT OF SIGNS: 438 A. General: 439 1. Location. All signs are further limited and restricted as to height, cllearance, s type, 440 eepy,design-ate-location in the land use zones as such land use zones are defined and 441 established by Chapter 31, "Zoning Code", Title IV (Building Regulations), Code of 442 General Ordinances of the City, as amended, or any other ordinance pertaining to or 443 regulating zoning. The Zoning Code may contain further sign restrictions. Only those 444 signs specifically designated are permitted; all others are prohibited. - ese-zenes 445 446 2. Height Limitations. tThe height limitation for freestanding, ground, projecting and 447 combination signs shall be the maximum height of the zone or forty feet (40');, 448 whichever is less. (Roof signs may extend 449 twenty feet (20') above the parapet wall. This Section shall not apply to those signs 450 covered by Section 4-20-12C.8, Oversized Signs for Large Retail Uses, or Section 4- 451 20-12H, City Center Sign Regulations. (Ord. 4464, 7-25-94) 452 B. Regulations for Residential, Zones, and Residential Occupancies in 453 Mixed-Use ZonesRegulatiens: In all residential, zones, and for 454 residential occupancies in mixed use zones,the following shall apply: 455 *** 456 2. Churches, Schools, Etc: Churches, schools, apartment buildings, subdivision 457 developments and similar occupancies located in residential zones may have two(2) on- 458 premises identifying signs of not over thirty two (32) square feet in area on one face. 459 The signs may be illuminated but not animated, shall be for location identification only 460 and shall display no copy, symbol or device other than that in keeping with the 461 development. Freestanding signs shall be not higher than six feet (6') above any 462 established grade and shall be no closer than ten feet(10')to any street right-of-way or 463 five feet(5')to any side property line. 464 465 7/2/97 20 ',ow Niro 466 However, public 467 facilities may have one freestanding sign with a maximum height of twenty five feet 468 (25'). 469 *** 470 C. Commercial and Industrial Zones: Except in the City 471 Center Sign Regulation Area,the following shall apply in all commercial and industrial zones: 472 *** 473 2. Business Signs: Each individual business establishment may have only one sign for 474 each street frontage of any one of the following types: Freestanding, roof, ground, 475 projecting or combination. Each sign shall not exceed an area greater than one and 476 one-half(11/2) square feet for each lineal foot of property frontage which the business 477 occupies up to a maximum of three hundred (300) square feet; or if such sign is multi- 478 faced,the maximum allowance shall not be more than three hundred (300) square feet. 479 However, a maximum of one-half(1/2) of the allowed square footage is allowed on 480 each face. Businesses with less than twenty five (25) lineal front feet may have a sign 481 of a maximum of twenty (20) square feet per f 482 483 . (Ord. 4172, 9-12-1988) 484 *** 485 3. Wall Signs: In addition to the signs in Section Cl,Under Marquee Signs, C2,Business 486 Signs, C6, Motor Vehicle Dealership Over One Acre of Contiguous Ownership or 487 Control. and-C8, Oversized Signs for Large Retail Uses, and C9, Shopping Centers, 488 wall signs are permitted with a total copy area not exceeding twenty percent (20%) of 489 the building facade to which it is applied. 490 *** 491 11. Commercial and/or industrial subdivisions may have two (2) on premises identifying 492 signs not over seventy five (75) square feet on one face. These signs must be no higher 493 than six feet (6'), or no closer to the street right-of-way than ten feet (10') or five feet 494 (5')to any side property line. 495 496 497 498 Y � s 499 500 501 502 • 503 504 505 signs-are-prehibited. 7/2/97 21 Amy 4.40, 506 • 507 508 4-31-14: FREEWAY/ARTERIAL STREET SETBACK RESTRICTIONS 509 • 510 • 511 512 welfare:. 513 SIGNPROP.DOC 7/2/97 22 i.r ATTACHMENT C CITY CENTER SIGN REGULATION AREA IF/ ' 401 .___ / Inc im.: .,.......,,,__ ■— i a.) EA:: l �, T am a 11 E______Airport ` In MO WayMN MIN r----------- - .i i1 `� `ihhh,, maim, " .. 2ri d �: ■ r. ril LIE ram i I. 1.■ ■r.i� is . en ... riiii fl\ i - ai Ii N 4 J 4 S 2nd St '""" INS EMI pr gm `.in 2nd 'n , ,N. , 471 1 1 ------, ____, ri) , .. �� S3rdSt- —_, _I_ _ i ril rail j('!J \011111111,111. I I,1 I I I .N I N 11■� ■ —■ �it •.4 w• '_■ set d / / ., IIIII P°,All •- — cr) -- , _JP ir run km. \ _-_--_-_-__ - II j - / ilia immi I. Ott li Illiii J(/ Y:I) Mil" mul ___ __ _WI 00:- — ___ ....= ,_ — I mum ____(n 1 IMMO— a� �, 111111 MEM MIMI gm Nom INIME MI 0 600 1 ,200 Study Area Boundary Proposed Alternative Boundary 1 :7,200 vti�Y O4, Planning and Technical Services + tie + Planning/Building/Public Works L. Grueter, O. Dennison, R. MacOnie fP— tN.rO 2 July 1997 ATTACHMENT D-1 Noe Noy T y. +Y I. t ,rEHN'5 3cr 1.2.1- ", Y4�CS LEL1 ie RE1-GCS , n1rlQuES I i [A2•1TIC3'1.- PAL/Ace." r' (lF CoulS FLa y ': ! co O NCE b 1." Tf2Det 1 5 CSY GE '(G 5 -+• ARE.Jrr rJ Col tJ-r Sri r P ; , , :Trt+rnos a b • i • 1 . I ' -f E: . 11 ATTACHMENT D-2 ,-,--. .. .,:l. II At' mok... - ,- va„,Nowilisti___ — • - - : f/• .10! a..;, wain _ ___ • • .t" !t. .Pill` 'il ''. ' 11 " . Iiiiiiiii,.• 1,'', , ' . 1 '. .',; bib • , , r r MOP ' ,.....z-- ; ,,,..yi li... . - A.t- ''' • ., .....,,,,I :., • t 1 ,1' .4. • li"..".,..—/'. • '.. •'"alli, -I' I '' ...." 4 I'(' .. '' i i k 41117* . - ' . '• •...v. •q 1 ' ........I,c—It tr.:‘. 7'124 II. -;•;'.....„r"i • 1 ,. , . A . • i,,_,,„, . . . - . . 1,-,-• . 1 -.:.41.- ,••....t. • - — . • A' • -- -- :•. , •,!"4" 71-411-; •••••--...9.--.. • * _ ________, , • -•• ---7--kri- 1 . .."1 064'. '' • • v.:•-r..-"'p.m...., „„,- , .....1"..'•'',...-1;22,, , .,„,,,,,Atfpm,,o,' 4,04.2....N.:41.1.0.4 e.' 1 •A! •o .., tv,.. . ..'i'.7—rT '...'"'• 4',0i'.•.1/, • , t , , '. „„•,,,, - ...., — ..,,,c.- ' .1 • ,,. r'1'. ,,,, _ A.),,3•••"•. ...• •.•,.', ,:•,.....• -- . ,„, ,. .,, .. . . , , • , • ..; , • , 4 ;,,, ,•••••"-:-.1.-i '• • • ,• 4• :•.. * .t;1,.1.-s.k. ;•,.•-•'`• -- It"',..." V•11`"1--„t• ,:, •• _ • . ' ...- 4,411'':..4-t,;1....%,-*..;4.•ti:,:fit.....f, . ...a 4, .• _, •0-1' •. •• - - •-,. ." ' • ' .• • , , 's• i. :a• - .•••. '• • i . . •-./.. " ... e' 0 ‘...' j •, • • I, I.,. ' • ., ...- .. . •;. ' " • •,., .. . . . ATTACHMENT E rya — Mg Ma Ma Ma Ma Ma raz ./11101 is Projecting Sign (over public R—O—W) il Ma '7 :Zai J a (Note: 10 ft. clearance is an example; 8 ft. clearance is ufs the minimum requirement) j_ F-30.00'—, 37 5 e!'1$ 0 e# T 8.39 } 13.00' Wall Signs a C5.00' 40.00' 97:5 s! : 8 r 24.38. I 8 t.4 85.00' .... 26 00 .... isi 100.00' SIGN SIZE STANDARDS v1: 1( O,� Planning and Technical Services + � + Planning/Budding/Public Works "� L. Grueter, O. Dennison �,NTO'� 1 July 1997 RENTON CITY COUNCIL Regular Meeting June 2, 1997 Council Chambers Monday, 7:30 p.m. Municipal Building MINUTES CALL TO ORDER Mayor Tanner led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and called the meeting of the Renton City Council to order. ROLL CALL OF KATHY KEOLKER-WHEELER, Council President; TONI NELSON; BOB COUNCILMEMBERS EDWARDS; RANDY CORMAN; TIMOTHY SCHLITZER; KING PARKER; DAN CLAWSON. CITY STAFF IN JESSE TANNER, Mayor; JAY COVINGTON, Executive Assistant to the ATTENDANCE Mayor; LAWRENCE J. WARREN, City Attorney; MARILYN PETERSEN, City Clerk; GREGG ZIMMERMAN, Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator; SUSAN CARLSON, Economic Development Director; RON OLSEN, Utility Systems Director; MIKE KATTERMANN, Planning & Technical Services Director; NEIL WATTS, Plan Review Supervisor; COMMANDER DENNIS GERBER, Police Department. APPROVAL OF MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY EDWARDS, COUNCIL MINUTES COUNCIL APPROVE THE MINUTES OF MAY 19, 1997, AS PRESENTED. CARRIED. PROCLAMATION A proclamation by Mayor Tanner was read declaring the month of June, 1997 Hire A Veteran Month - to be "Hire a Veteran Month" in the City of Renton, and encouraging all June 1997 employers, service providers and other citizens to join in observing this event, recognizing that when we help a veteran secure employment, we help the family, the community, and ourselves. MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE PROCLAMATION. CARRIED. PUBLIC HEARING This being the date set and proper notices having been posted and published Executive: Downtown Sign in accordance with local and State laws, Mayor Tanner opened the public Moratorium hearing to consider the moratorium on signs in the central downtown area. Mike Kattermann, Planning & Technical Services Director, reported that on May 19th, Council declared a six-month moratorium on signs in Renton's downtown core area and set a public hearing this date to accept testimony on whether the moratorium should be continued. Mr. Kattermann noted that under the moratorium, temporary signs are permitted as defined in the City Code. He explained that one reason for the moratorium is to prevent proliferation of signs that would be inconsistent with the vision for the downtown contained in the Comprehensive Plan. It would also allow staff to address issues and concerns raised regarding signs in the downtown. On the other hand, the moratorium does foster a certain degree of uncertainty in the business community, and could negatively affect new businesses opening in the downtown. Referring to the existing sign code, Mr. Kattermann said this allows 1.5 square feet of signage per lineal square foot, to a maximum of 300 square feet (including all faces of the sign). Wall signs can be up to 20% of the facade area. He described and showed examples of the various types of signs, including freestanding, roof, ground (also called monument), projecting, wall, and combinations of these. rrr� June 2. 1997 Renton City Council Minutes Page 177 Mr. Kattermann said a primary reason for the sign code changes is to treat the downtown differently from other commercial areas of the City. He compared Renton's sign code with those of Kirkland, Kent and Auburn, all of which have distinct sign regulations for their downtown areas. Continuing, Mr. Katterman explained the possible approaches for addressing the sign code revisions. These include: establishing a task force, working through an existing commission or Council committee, conducting a survey, holding a series of workshops, and/or hiring a consultant to assist staff in completing the revisions as soon as possible. If Council approves the recommended approach to the sign code revisions, staff would hold a series of workshops with all of the downtown sign stakeholders. The purpose of the first workshop (no later than June 13th) would be to identify major issues and concerns, and get direction regarding what people want changed. A draft ordinance would then be formulated and reviewed at the second workshop in mid-July. The draft would then be revised in time for the third workshop at the end of July. This schedule would also include a public hearing, SEPA review, and Council committee deliberation. Mr. Kattermann estimated that the final ordinance could be adopted in September. Upon Council inquiry, Mr. Kattermann offered to research whether the City imposed a moratorium on signs when it first adopted its sign code. He also responded that no sign permits for the downtown area are pending at this time. Councilman Schlitzer clarified that the question before Council this evening is whether the moratorium should be continued. He wondered if the regulations contained in the current sign code are sufficient to prevent undesirable signs from being approved while the changes are being negotiated. Councilman Clawson commented that he did not want to place a hardship on anyone who is developing in the downtown area. Audience comment was invited. Glenn Galliher, 28015 SE High Point Way, Issaquah, 98027, commented on the approval process for a sign that he was hired to construct for a new business in Renton. Saying that this sign is important to his client, he emphasized that businesses must be able to have signs when they initially open their doors. Fred Steiner, 321 Rainier Ave. S., stated that he submitted a permit application for the sign described by Mr. Galliher on April 8th for his new business, Freddie's, on S. 3rd Street. After the Board of Adjustment voted to grant him a needed variance for the sign, the board's decision was protested. The board subsequently denied his variance request. Explaining that this sign has already been constructed at a cost of $30,000, Mr. Steiner said it is a first-class sign and he will need to pay Mr. Galliher for it regardless. In response to Mayor Tanner's request to clarify the sequence of events reported by Mr. Steiner, Larry Warren, City Attorney, explained that after the Board of Adjustment first approved Mr. Steiner's sign variance request for an electronic message board, Mr. Steiner was wrongly informed that the appeal period was ten days. According to State law, to which the City must adhere, the appeal period is 21 days plus an additional three days if the notice is mailed. Mr. Warren said during this period of time, a request for reconsideration was received from a Board of Adjustment member who had Itrie Name June 2, 1997 Renton City Council Minutes Page 178 been absent from the meeting where Mr. Steiner's variance was approved. Also, it was determined that Mr. Steiner needed not one but two variances, the first for the electronic message sign and the other for the setback because the sign is a monument sign. The Board of Adjustment subsequently turned down Mr. Steiner's variance request because it was incomplete (it did not address the need for both variances) and thus would not accomplish his objectives. Responding to Councilman Corman, Mr. Warren said a permit was never issued for this sign. Mr. Steiner clarified that the only reason his sign is considered a monument sign is because the supporting pole is covered, which in his opinion looks better. He added he would be willing to uncover the pole if this would negate the need for a setback variance. Gina Kavesh, 724 S. 3rd Street, spoke as president of the Downtown Renton Asociation (DRA) to report that although the DRA supports the moratorium because it will provide time in which the sign code can be appropriately revised for the downtown, it would like for the process to be completed in less than six months. David Loring, 617 S. 3rd Street, said he and a partner are currently redeveloping the old Good Chevrolet property, the grand opening of which is planned in 60 to 75 days. Emphasizing that signage is a critical issue, especially since various businesses will be located in the new development, Mr. Loring encouraged Council to consider either a shorter moratorium or a method by which new signage could be addressed during the moratorium period. He concluded that after the moratorium is lifted, it will still take time for businesses to secure sign permits and have their signs constructed. Tim Searing, 4510 NE 19th, Renton, 98056, stated that as the owner of three properties in the downtown, he favored achieving comprehensive sign regulations for this area. He was not, however, comfortable with a six-month moratorium and suggested that this be shortened to three months. Councilmember Nelson stated that neither she nor downtown business owners favor imposing a moratorium. Noting that Renton has had essentially the same sign code since 1974, she pointed out that any revisions will only affect new signs, not existing ones, and therefore will influence only a minority of signs in the downtown. She was concerned about Mr. Steiner's predicament and the substantial expense he has incurred for his sign. Ms. Nelson stated that Renton has long had its own character, and this will not change because of new sign regulations. She concluded by urging Council not to continue the moratorium, because doing so would wrong Renton's business community. Councilman Edwards agreed that the downtown should have separate sign regulations, and he supported the recommended approach to accomplish this by collaborating with those who will be affected. Adding that no one, least of all business owners, likes unaesthetic signs, he said many businesses want to locate downtown, and the moratorium sends the wrong message regarding the City's desire to attract new businesses to Renton. Councilman Clawson concurred with Mr. Edwards that it appears no emergency exists for the moratorium. He suggested shortening the moratorium period from six months to six weeks. June 2. 1997 Renton City Council Minutes Page 179 Gene Sens, 212 S. 3rd St., thanked the Mayor and Councilmembers for the enormous effort the City has made to revitalize the downtown. He concurred that a shorter moratorium may be more reasonable, and concluded that all interested persons appear to support a similar outcome regarding the downtown area. There being no further public comment, it was MOVED BY EDWARDS, SECONDED BY PARKER, COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. CARRIED. Councilman Parker stated he has spent a great deal of time researching this subject. Noting that many people are recognizing opportunities in Renton's downtown, he said what was long desired is finally being achieved. He felt that if the moratorium is continued, it should not be longer than three months, with progress reports made to Council every week. Mr. Parker said the City must be sensitive to what those in the downtown area want, and the Administration must commit to making this a priority. He was concerned, however, about the message the moratorium would send to those who are interested in coming to the downtown, and concluded that a short-term moratorium might be best for the benefit of its long-term effects. Noting that most speakers this evening favor having a shorter moratorium, it was moved by Corman, seconded by Parker, Council reduce the moratorium from six to three months and direct the Administration to try to complete the sign code revisions as soon as possible.* Council President Keolker-Wheeler said she has not been persuaded of the existence of an emergency that would justify the moratorium. Fearing that a moratorium would negatively affect those who are currently redeveloping in the downtown as well as those who may want to invest in this area in the next few months, she felt it would be a disservice and that it was too drastic a measure to resort to in the absence of a clear emergency. Ms. Keolker- Wheeler did not support the proposed motion to reduce the moratorium to three months, since staff has said this would not be enough time to accomplish the changes. Instead, she favored rescinding the moratorium and committing to the recommended process for negotiating the sign code changes without a moratorium. She added that the broader issue of the downtown's image will take longer to resolve than the sign code changes. Councilman Corman cautioned that in the absence of a moratorium, Council would have to accept the fact that applications may be received for undesirable--yet still legal--signs. Councilman Schlitzer concurred that the City should not have a moratorium while it works through the sign code changes, since these will take an undetermined amount of time to resolve. *Motion failed. MOVED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, SECONDED BY EDWARDS, COUNCIL RESCIND THE DOWNTOWN SIGN MORATORIUM AND COMMIT TO THE RECOMMENDED PROCESS AS OUTLINED BY STAFF, INCLUDING THE PROPOSED TIMELINE, FOR ACCOMPLISHING CHANGES TO THE SIGN CODE FOR THE DOWNTOWN AREA. CARRIED. Councilmember Nelson asked if staff could assist Mr. Steiner in getting his sign installed. City Attorney Warren replied that although Mr. Steiner's June 2. 1997 \rrf Renton City Council Minutes Page 180 variance request was denied by the Board of Adjustment, several options remain open to him such as submitting a new application or changing and relocating the sign. Council President Keolker-Wheeler requested a written copy of the timeline for the process to accomplish the sign code changes. She also asked that this matter remain in Committee of the Whole for regular briefings. RECESS MOVED BY EDWARDS, SECONDED BY KEOLKER-WHEELER, COUNCIL RECESS FOR TEN MINUTES. CARRIED. Time: 8:53 p.m. The meeting was reconvened at 9:04 p.m.; roll was called; all Councilmembers present. AUDIENCE COMMENT Sarah McDonald, PO Box 1825, Renton, 98057, expressed appreciation for the Citizen Comment comments made by Councilwoman Nelson in defense of Renton during the McDonald - Appreciation preceding public hearing. to Councilwoman Nelson CONSENT AGENDA Items on the consent agenda are adopted by one motion which follows the listing. Board/Commission: Mayor Tanner reappointed Catherine Corman, 2216 Harrington P1. NE, Library Board Renton, to the Library Board for a five-year term expiring 6/01/2002. Appointment Council concur. Board/Commission: Park Mayor Tanner reappointed Ronald Regis, 824 Jefferson Ave. NE, Renton, and Board Appointments Timothy Searing, 4510 NE 19th, Renton, to the Park Board each for a four- year term to expire 6/01/2001. Council concur. HR&RM: Reclassifications Human Resources & Risk Management Department recommended (12 Positions) reclassification of twelve positions for a total 1997 cost of $17,374. Refer to Finance Committee. Human Services: Human Services Division submitted proposed performance-based Performance-Based reimbursement plan for inclusion in the 1998 Human Services Contract to Reimbursement Plan make agencies accountable for their performance by linking goal achievement to funding. Refer to Community Services Committee. Streets: SW 16th St Transportation Division requested authorization for a temporary closure of the Temporary Closure westbound lane of SW 16th St. from Oakesdale to Raymond Avenues SW for (Oakesdale to Raymond) approximately 80 days from the first week of July through mid-September for construction of a storm drain and wet vault structure. Refer to Transportation Committee. Transportation: Six-Year Transportation Systems Division submitted annual update of the 1998-2003 TIP, 1998-2003 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) and associated mid-year budget adjustments. Refer to Transportation Committee; set a public hearing on 6/23/97 on the TIP and budget adjustment ordinance. Lease: Sprint Antenna Utilities System Division recommended approval of proposed amendment to Placement on Highlands LAG-96-001, lease agreement with Sprint Spectrum, to allow the installation Elevated Water Tank, of additional antennas and related equipment on the Highlands Elevated Water LAG-96-001 Tank, located at 3410 NE 12th Street. Council concur. cu ►` • • C v18 City Of Renton . PUBLIC INFORMATION HANDOUT June 2, 199T SIGN PERMIT MORATORIUM PUBLIC HEARING For additional information, please•contact: Ci•ty of R•enton•Planning a•t 235 2552 or call Mike Kattermann dir•ectly at 277-6190 MORATORIUM TERMS With City Resolution 3259, a moratorium was declared on May 19, 1997 to halt City staff from accepting, processing, or permitting any sign permits (except temporary signs) in the Downtown Study Area (Exhibit A). A public hearing was scheduled for June 2, 1997 to accept public testimony regarding whether to continue the moratorium or not. The moratorium is to be in place for six months. The moratorium may be extended for one or more six month periods, but prior to each subsequent renewal, a public hearing and findings of fact must be made. During the moratorium, the City's planning staff is directed to study the Comprehensive Plan, Sign Code, and the policies and purpose of the citizens Gateway Committee and any other applicable policies, and regulations, and make recommendations to the City Council. Recommendations should address how to achieve a harmonious, integrated set of policies, rules, regulations and ordinances governing signs within the Downtown Study Area. SIGNS ALLOWED DURING MORATORIUM The only signs which may be permitted during the moratorium are temporary signs which are permitted in the City Code, but the temporary signs must be removed within thirty days of the termination of the moratorium. However, if the temporary signs are consistent with the policies, rules, regulations and ordinances in effect subsequent to the moratorium, a permanent sign permit shall be obtained, and the construction of the sign approved as constructed. Attachment: Exhibit A -Downtown Study Area/Sign Moratorium Area HADI VISION.SIP-TS\PLANNING\LGRUETERISIGNS\PUBHAND.DOC 1 rrro lime 0I t:T T O -r; jai o -, -, a E--( w a i. O , u a, 7- E .4, z 6 rV -a --- yV H qq 4� V +-j +� O O 0 /r o -+ CN +-) in .Vu -1.' \m . d r � C S-. - In R'' Rl:C ia 'tP • 1— }'X-'1 O O = .i 0 c_ C 0 2-0. 4, e r ' O ?C C 4 ' CI a O XO •.r. O tit cm N �' 1411 4, O Ci Lintialter . \ 41P4.1-1 I , ) 1 il IIIITL 1 ' � � 1 li �- if a r •�• 1. NJ It H I I�.* f vot_i IJ!144 1 /, ? Y 1`.rrb ii — T11T 1,11 i 1 ,\ MUNE noon "f ` ' I\ ►�` ' YI' h1 F . 1111l 1'II 111'11 L I . l i ,�J Li_ � C ga __l I Il II S�fT1TlTTl 1 1 � r �� iN` =q, n BCD (aril In mibi . FN. 11111 1l11111 I1 I �. ® f 11 '] IJIIII N �- �_(t= LH Q NM it -11 Cl 1111 Mr „LL, , II 111 L r 1[I I 1 ,,11111111 F1ffi . II C ( 1 XV 1 1 ..1 \N FIT'-- -,-..°.....ii J \__J--H- _WA., --- i� lose 1�0 v:�0 Ctty 7f Renton; PUBLIC INFORMATION HANDOUT June 2, 1997. ,SIGN PERMIT MORATORIUM PUBLIC HEARING For additional information, please contact: City of Renton Planning at 235-2552 or call Mike Kattermann directly at 277-6190. MORATORIUM TERMS With City Resolution 3259, a moratorium was declared on May 19, 1997 to halt City staff from accepting, processing, or permitting any sign permits (except temporary signs) in the Downtown Study Area (Exhibit A). A public hearing was scheduled for June 2, 1997 to accept public testimony regarding whether to continue the moratorium or not. The moratorium is to be in place for six months. The moratorium may be extended for one or more six month periods, but prior to each subsequent renewal, a public hearing and findings of fact must be made. During the moratorium, the City's planning staff is directed to study the Comprehensive Plan, Sign Code, and the policies and purpose of the citizens Gateway Committee and any other applicable policies, and regulations, and make recommendations to the City Council. Recommendations should address how to achieve a harmonious, integrated set of policies, rules, regulations and ordinances governing signs within the Downtown Study Area. SIGNS ALLOWED DURING MORATORIUM The only signs which may be permitted during the moratorium are temporary signs which are permitted in the City Code, but the temporary signs must be removed within thirty days of the termination of the moratorium. However, if the temporary signs are consistent with the policies, rules, regulations and ordinances in effect subsequent to the moratorium, a permanent sign permit shall be obtained, and the construction of the sign approved as constructed. Attachment: Exhibit A-Downtown Study Area/Sign Moratorium Area H:\DI VISION.S\P-TS\PLANNING\LGRUETER\SIGNS\PUBHAND.DOC 1 ftlie *ape Pf T r H q v Pw 7 ¢ O fa., uT Q E ° A., n HmnWy = -. O Cr - OO �FN /i +-, O a -4d to c -� in — co .o j O E--1 .o -r a C is _ c xa co a Oe.(01; w W �-.+ , Q &) O • N o r I + •. lip im- lir, 7. _ r� i� rrr�rrr► �♦♦u in - - - man � lik t =oF., 1111W4?4 ; : ► 11111 .! I Mar _�T [Lit I _ �� .r fall . I rl U. 7 ►J I I I �1 1 rat :1[H-LautyH I alma rri� jell `ri fT11 ( III 1111- I 4 'I I I!II ¶1 LI SaL.riiiglaY .4 „IF i E N110 OE 2-TOJED TO ,Z,211] Eat 441, El -" a I I - ___-_� , lin 1 /' - _ Erin' 1__ z� I HI i, a -j119_ tIII ► a. ' - I Am = f i 11111 V—P?"" ■an_ I rani .., AI ' � � ■1 U a -� N Ls, : . --- I -\ ( I 1 ' 117 to ___..__ _ . _ --,- J ee+�.�.N/�e\�� IOW i�.0 b ��- ► to r --1 m Z a s (o L o .0 O m 5, )•'(;). '', l ( C cD = 03 C 0 0 0 0. cD �/, � " -. <,► a co m -0 o o. C n; C O p a CD - �tS,:C ' c Z C a O C C� `� m � �-r_ ! m c m = -" my � � = m � r o aN o ili 3 "./ /`*, ,nt 4 `)\„ y W ,o 0 o s O m CAD 0 0 Q. - $, o = . � co 0 ao 0 ig 0 0 `,�����,.��..= 0 00 .« c1n m 3• m 0 m m m 3 m w -'. mcm �,-0 .cvC Q m m a-0 oa0g g m CD fD v (0 mi a) -1 < CD C)_ ' , 5 ,1 o: a) � m n vi, °: crm 0 co -1 x a 5jc• v, =• 3 m o. 0nN -0 -. °` m y D 7C � Z m r m --•1mo0m �, ( m < c O p 0 CD a = -" -, a tD O 0 am us a) 0- co -, cD O 3 7 CO O m > p `G = yam .. m 0 Km7C0. m o �. , n m a) v m � av, r. io o tea. . o. a X ? s ccn doom z o =` m0 .�' o a = a mm =• av' fD 0 m m C mo II. .1\ = , ? CD p �� tG m m .< w m m c.._, .« CO co F ~' 0 .o man as 0 `< a O CD r p n; C pj a C CD d P y O .�+ _ V1 m C C m F�y /� lD �C S m 0" 7 0. 0"' 5 / �, C- „ a s o 3 0 = r--; > c -5 _ aim o m um+ - m y d � No ao m oin- _ c0 C p 3m � m m cQ m ao -im ? m oo Z p a O = O cD ? 3 m N \ O O O O O �' r x D N a C .C-. = m ( . 3 CO VI a O m d W n < �, 0 _n in O "� C 0 (D C O 0 °Egg 7m _ c) woo I$ w I' 4. `5,11,ci 1. Q•t8s 3 �3-=.mod @ =fir t)r°: = in a.y nn�5-5a.= • c = n a t) O* t S $ m *.agN�v m u,ET-c-,5) 5 mo �0,tr-2 =v 'PA—=-aocn8;oa m2.mn- �Nmm �g�mw m�5�_ti=aw-<0 wv �'a �-, c m 08mmo if, st . aw 00 -1Oa2C.v0 ORISON55mNmn v a aoo5 vcnS croscaZr e Ocm co 0).-5 �3m * m xymtc? c go gi0o m acon616FPWa: c-"a Ic a mStg co43mmS a ., 7 � -'mK O 70 � m � ?.� Q.�Nm 1.00 LOCATIONS OF POSTINGS DONE ON May- 9-9" , 1997 1. z-JC, C -- S5 rrJ-e iv 0 , a 2. L;L',rr vcc_ )& ))i,-r c, 7 LA.,,y-y So. 3. W 5- I ) why 5o J aje. 4. 7 J�) �r�ic r �i' �_ v`z So ; �S12 5. R_ - 7 c ,.v/L�-yp..u� . So u ,7) r' , . � �,�L > ' ✓�y 7u, 6. 31 j 5, ,3 ,;� A; wc,.,��1� 5/ �� , / 7. 6i)`l - 50. '3 `'a I'ni3ory 50. 9. 5/ Li p �2} � �ti� ) / ; � 5 , � J% C°c' CERTIFICATION STATE OF WASHINGTON) ss COUNTY OF KING ) I t u (m A-L-L€l i HEREBY CERTIFY THAT ID COPIES OF THE ABOVE NOTICE WERE POSTED BY ME IN THREE OR MORE ONSPICUOUS PLACES ON THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED AND TWO COPIES WERE PO D A TH RENTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 200 MILL AVENUE S., RENTON, WA ON DATE OF 5 22- R SIGNED SUBSCRIBED AND WOR TO BEFORE ME this 22,(D day of MA Y , 19 q7 Notary ublic in and for the State of Washington, residing at it.f./lk-. s NOTICE RENTON CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING ON JUNE 2ND, 1997 AT 7:30 P.M. RENTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING COUNCIL CHAMBERS 200 MILL AVENUE SOUTH Moratorium on signs in the central downtown area (bounded by I-405 and the Cedar River, S. 5th Street, Airport Way, ant) Rainier Avenue) ! iihLI1;i1 ='- � .Sze; Elm _ 1 � =mucn" = O r u- ` 1 iQ — \ '44 # s 2nd St I' �` ,S ind St; 'a , N -u - - -1 ■■ ■■ ■ r� l 1 �1 3rd S >lai 11: :�s al� w _111 I I I LIJ 0 I I 1 F1' L —L PEN '� rr. - Si& V" -M =V - Zp%."... Ilk ''' S 57 Street = Q 16 rii A 5 E9i ! _I I15l OE ES .:yd —: Ie = -.E' _ _ it , s. -s__Eiff. Kf. 1 ____ ___. . _ ,- 1 2 All interested parties are invited to attend and present written and/or oral comments. Complete legal description&further information available in the City Clerk's Office-235-2501 The removal,mutilation,destruction,or WIa r n n ' concealment of this notice is a misdemeanor punishable by fine and imprisonment. Yaw v/ Kim&Greg Sweet Sweet Spirit Candles 622 Morris Avenue South Renton,WA 98055 (206) 271-9001 Gary Chrisman / Cedar River Books 309 Wells Avenue S. Renton,WA 98055 255-1933 David Loring Attorney-at-Law 10434 Forest Avenue S. Seattle,WA 98178 772-5004 Jim Medzegian Boeing 11914 SE 78th Newcastle,WA 98056 Jirn Poff 2925 Morris Avenue South Renton,WA 98055 '/Betty Nokes 30 to ktuihi tt, / 4'e Al Chamber of Commerce —7 , 4� A vce-5 /Mary Melcher Edward D. Jones 819 S. Third St. Renton,WA 98055 ✓Tricia Gates Metro Credit Union 1731 4th Ave.S Seattle,WA 98134 y'110/ 97 +rr/ Susan Carlson Ron Knight City of Rent° V Washington State 200 Mill nue South Properties Rent , A 98055 PO Box 6 P e 277-4419 Renton,WA 98057 AAX 235-2532 Phone 255-1777 FAX 255-5200 ✓Armondo Pavone Armondo's Café Italian Tim Searing 919 S.3rd St. V Knight Vale and Renton,WA 98055 Gregory Phone 255-5001 211 Morris Ave. FAX 228-1322 Renton,WA 98055 Phone 226-6200 /Gene Sens FAX 271-7092 Gene's Ristorante 212 S.3rd St. /Bill LeBlanc Renton,WA 98055 First Savings Bank Phone 271-7042 PO 360 FAX 271-1811 Renton,WA 98057 Phone 255-4400 Denis Law FAX 228-7227 Renton Reporter 723 SW 10th.St. Ste. 275 7 Ron McGowan Renton,WA 98055 v McGowan's Restaurant Phone 271-6673 317 Main Ave. S. FAX 271-6788 Renton,WA 98055 Phone 271-6644 .Alison Home FAX 271-6646 ✓Cedar River Brewing Co. / PO Box 150 �/Suzanne Thompson Renton,WA 98057 McLendon Hardware Phone 254-8155 16055 SE 4th St. FAX 254-8251 Bellevue,WA 98008 Phone 747-3905 v Denny Dochnahl FAX 747-2599 Dochnahl Trucking 13020 Lake Kathleen Rd. SE Renton,WA 98509 Phone 255-6994 FAX 235-1053 'Gina Kavesh Renton Western Wear 724 S. 3rd Street Renton,WA 98055 Phone 228-6170 FAX 255-7711 1x .� i t-y 4 ��tT � � 1 , _ _ `, • to-4.o ` .%.-,q �� x ;NOTI E EREBY' �H � �o it €xed Jane 2, 1997, at '.3t1 p• si.- s.the d� i a i� second floor Council•Chambers o'h � "�i z , -'1��., en South, Renton • 98055, to consider Moratorium ��` �+ �c oa ton � hit I-405 and the �r �]' r ue) t • Alt tnteres'terd pers i are i fiend`'� �tiu��, � eral,or written comments i support + 1� , $wilding is fully accessible, and su a the i� be provided upon prior notice. l call'23d� t� � 'TIED. Marilyn a terse "F °s City Clerk ti Published. South Count of May 23,t No.1997 Accoun x • titio IIV <' ` : ..:0.. •. owl , ., .. :.::.,_ :„ ,,,, ,. ,,, ., ,. ,.WE tee. SIPA -. ' I . , �:am wet , [ t 9Mid ; ME`• * - :,, M A'Ht_.l='.i:1i'_'l' *.,(iii,t 1-''I'.•1'1i-iii-1i: --\,„4,-'i-'ii''1i1'1,.i411..i11'1 1i1''r1''M;-,:'r-,O.;:;'*,:''S-4'.I.'-'/:,i'i.tl, .:..-":_'),.),-,.L,1'4'_._...'...,,,--i,t',,t,,:,..jt'.'. . ring . -1 16 , : •'':',.-,,law'21.:i;rkg 2'...= '''::p III I ' '.., ii .. '.:",,,,gm",•'WA 4% :':',,,,,'''.4..':2'., 'INIBMINE-•,,',.,,:7'.',4,;,,,,,:‘,:4;.,:,-,,,,:':'''.-,..„1:': ./,';:":' -'2 . ' , .. tc„- -_ „,L„:s-2. : -d 'St . '': '•-,:-',---,."..:--,'•2..,,_--,-.,-..,':',n;7A4 i.:1,,1,.",.." . .e t ,� „ i' ,,;-',,„i ':,,,,--,,,,,,::,:,:,,';,V,i-,i,.:;,,i,-',"4:-,,.--17.i,,,,,-.":',,:T!,.,:.,.-..,,,,.;-i::,...,,.•,,,.-':':..ii-.::',:',,..,--,,,.::,,-,..,:•_ ,.,-, , . , fme II. � � a� 6 , � if as , � J • ...„ .., ,'''.'i-;''',''''''''''''-'-'.;:•-: ?):--.',:'':'-;•:''.•ma .:,..::. : ... ,,,,,..„. II E a APB,-, \ \ . , „; # w :. MOM i ' - NM Asti ' :_ ;ra. rilior tfts '. &,F _:sum sw .. s ma ass -D�@'2sa asap a rj. w �, swz arm `'is f l .:Ai`"y s . m wax .r, ! .N 1 p by F»Y ? t' 7'K . ' , .. ', '-' .,•::.:", ' ":: ',:::';'. ', • : ::,,'-i ::„ ., '' . l'',:nt.,...ii-i,.:-,i, � �� ��� Area • Alire *me CITY OF RENTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RENTON CITY COUNCIL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Renton City Council has fixed June 2, 1997, at 7:30 p.m. as the date and time for a public meeting to be held in the second floor Council Chambers of the Renton Municipal Building, 200 Mill Avenue South, Renton 98055, to consider the following: Moratorium on signs in the central downtown area (bounded by I-405 and the Cedar River, S. 5th Street, Airport Way, and Rainier Avenue) All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting and present oral or written comments in support or opposition to the proposal. The Municipal Building is fully accessible, and interpretive services for the hearing impaired will be provided upon prior notice. Please call 235-2501 for additional information or 277-4453 TDD. 4y✓ Marilyn . tersen City Clerk Published: South County Journal May 23, 1997 Account No. 50640 — _A— 1� _ cu ----...-*c),-li • Th ` —� `,,_ - ¶ - - c r u, Airport Ways / , '- Into _ — _ i F.L — i _ _ ��.01 l # ,ice —_ 2 r"d ti . III11N1� t !P41I '; !! ' \ii 4\ 11=21:___-1 -t .01161111001 III I lig c.N., * <5''SIP. Er Prr I ----- —,g mum 1 .L., 2 ,N —_-_- mi wi ov • ‘151 .1 t, II �� L�' _ Ii irg ___ er ��� maw -- \�� � h • ' it—I 1: __ z1 il S2ndS '""a'• M'� — � t ri it S 2nd St / , 116, — il -- a a on um En mu Al 0110( •' AR 4 S 3rd SANN , r no -c„ .... , - , • �� ..l.I u� 1 al IIft1 :11NIII ■ —� OPP •;4w, 7 - V * . . =___. ---j-ri E---:-/PP-. 1 r , .. , 1 76 • __ __ , , ----=IILkIIJ1 , g......,0 •l.\ ?\ —r_ —is, \A Fri r ram . ........ -__.= =.7-7_11- '62---m--=-----tp- .--imi7)i- - --i — —— — IMO 3: a.L. ,....) s 111101' _ ____ __ __ .... re- - C 73= S V r I Gti Y o Long Range Nanning City of Renton Downtown Area + ! + �,• works Downtown Study Area - •t 2121M.May i 7acOn'° Sign Moratorium Area smosonidge *rot CITY OF RENTON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RENTON CITY COUNCIL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Renton City Council has fixed June 2, 1997, at 7:30 p.m. as the date and time for a public meeting to be held in the second floor Council Chambers of the Renton Municipal Building, 200 Mill Avenue South, Renton 98055, to consider the following: Moratorium on signs in the central downtown area (bounded by I-405 and the Cedar River, S. 5th Street, Airport Way, and Rainier Avenue) All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting and present oral or written comments in support or opposition to the proposal. The Municipal Building is fully accessible, and interpretive services for the hearing impaired will be provided upon prior notice. Please call 235-2501 for additional information or 277-4453 TDD. Marilyn . tersen City Clerk Published: South County Journal May 23, 1997 Account No. 50640 CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON RESOLUTION NO. 3259 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON, DECLARING A MORATORIUM ON THE ISSUANCE OF SIGN PERMITS WITHIN THE AREA COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE DOWNTOWN STUDY AREA WHICH IS LOCATED GENERALLY EAST OF RAINIER AVENUE SOUTH, WEST OF I-405 AND THE CEDAR RIVER, SOUTH OF AIRPORT WAY TO ITS CONNECTION WITH THE CEDAR RIVER AND THEN SOUTHWEST OF CEDAR RIVER, AND NORTH OF SOUTH FIFTH STREET, ESTABLISHING A PUBLIC HEARING DATE, AND ESTABLISHING A TERMINATION DATE OF THE MORATORIUM. WHEREAS, the City of Renton has established a downtown study area generally described as that territory lying within the following boundaries : east of Rainier Avenue South, west of I-405 and the Cedar River, south of Airport Way to its connection with the Cedar River and then southwest of Cedar River, and north of South Fifth Street as depicted in Exhibit A; and WHEREAS, the City has further established a Gateways Committee to provide attractive, appealing and inviting gateways to the City of Renton and its downtown study area; and WHEREAS, the City of Renton has established a Sign Code which permits signs within various zones of the City under specific conditions; and WHEREAS, the City of Renton has established a Comprehensive Plan with certain policies for the zoning and development of the various zones of the City of Renton; and WHEREAS, there is a perceived conflict between the goals within the Comprehensive Plan, the City Sign Code, and the purpose and objective of the citizens Gateway Committee; and ommiermaimmommow ✓RESOLUTION NO. 3259 WHEREAS, the City of Renton wishes to establish a time period within which it can study these various issues without installation of various signs that may be contrary to the City' s general policies and laws; NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON, DO RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS : SECTION I. The above recitals are found to be true and correct in all respects . SECTION II. There is hereby declared a moratorium on accepting, processing or permitting any sign permits within the downtown study area, except those temporary signs permitted in Section VI of this resolution. SECTION III . There is hereby established a public hearing on June 2, 1997, to accept public testimony on whether or not the City should continue this moratorium. SECTION IV. This moratorium shall be in place for a period of six months, which moratorium may be extended or renewed for one or more six month period(s) , but only if a subsequent public hearing is held and findings of fact are made prior to each renewal . SECTION V. During this six month moratorium the planning staff of the City is requested to study the Comprehensive Plan, Sign Code, and the policies and purpose of the citizens Gateway Committee and other applicable City policies, rules, regulations and laws, and make recommendations to the City Council or subcommittee thereof on the Comprehensive Plan policies, zoning and 2 *tis RESOLUTION NO. 3259 development regulations which should be adopted to present a harmonious, integrated set of policies, rules, regulations and ordinances governing signs within the downtown study area. SECTION VI. During the moratorium period, as extended, temporary signs shall be permitted under the applicable sections of the City Code, subject to a requirement that they be removed within thirty days of termination of the moratorium. However, if they are consistent with those policies, rules, regulations and ordinances in effect at that time, a permanent sign permit shall be obtained and the construction of the sign approved as constructed. PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL this 19th day of May , 1997 . Marily J etersen, City Clerk APPROVED BY THE MAYOR this 19th day of May , 1997 . Jes Tanner, Mayor Approve as to form: La ence J. Warr City Attorney RES . 583 : 5/16/97 . Publication Date: May 23, 1997 3 611. «ll • —.—.s... „, , • • • • r n L. itsc : N 1 ..-- ,_,_,_ i! „Ts: • \.__ 1 • — fi,..,-0 , \[__j_ glippl -TD- 1-- I 1 1 il / �`_mo■ • • Igl1llJ.I ■ 1l► 1o11 •'•'•• 111111ium i ] man: IF _ 1 . . mumN .111 i IluIuI 1 �; ii 11111 11 I / , i�01mu• I.,I I ( II�IITII IJ � �,� ��1 ► .� lII L1 S,. .�' 1 ■ A i ■ 11. 1.cCari:131 r'_ CLlLl0 n 1■111- T r vas 11 • I 117_ 1=11111 l � 1 ) 1 it 1 - ' j'- YS Jl I?i1" ;:1: LkHr ±j/ .. L . TI l i � L� L� ►1 1 I I I �:� ,.,,, V •,° 111 11L .���� lit ILL_G--.-c-f: 1 • ._ -- Adh • .0eu mu! ifir . M b&± FF _. ............,.....__ , + I d � . ii� sO 1Z et �' xO• r' oo O 1-xi Zs� K� �, - �: i `O V w vi ara n+ ,Ap V o el' � 1.2 CCo A g. a `J CD Co 1-21 g i e D's) _s (D A N w CITY OF RENTON COUNCIL AGENDA BILL AI #: $.oN• Submitting Data: Administration For Agenda of: Dept/Div/Board.. May 19, 1997 Staff Contact Sue Carlson (x4419), Jim Hanson (x6182), Mike Agenda Status Kattermann (x6190) Consent X Subject: Public Hearing ... Correspondence.. Downtown Sign Moratorium Ordinance Resolution Old Business Exhibits: New Business Study Sessions Issue Paper Information Resolution Map Recommended Action: Approvals: Council concur on moratorium on downtown signs and also on Legal Dept X referring work on revisions to the sign code to the Administration Finance Dept Other wea}bet /La 4,-7v /9r7 Fiscal Impact: Expenditure Required... N/A Transfer/Amendment Amount Budgeted N/A Revenue Generated Total Project Budget N/A City Share Total Project.. Summary of Action: The Council is being asked to apply a six-month moratorium on signs in the downtown study area (see attached map). The purpose of this action is to give the Administration time to examine and revise the sign code, as necessary, for the downtown. Together, these two actions will ensure that adequate standards are in place for the size, type, design and placement of signs in the downtown that will be in keeping with the vision and policies contained in the Comprehensive Plan. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The Administration recommends Council adopt the resolution imposing a six-month moratorium on downtown signs, set a public hearing on the moratorium, and refer the matter of sign code revisions to the Administration. Noe .4100 CITY OF RENTON PLANNING/BUILDING/PUBLIC WORKS MEMORANDUM DATE: May 15, 1997 TO: Kathy Keolker-Wheeler, President City Council Members FROM: Mayor Jesse Tanner STAFF CONTACTS: Sue Carlson (x4419) Jim Hanson (x6182) Mike Kattermann (x6190) SUBJECT: MORATORIUM AND DOWNTOWN SIGNAGE ISSUE: Moratorium on new signs in the downtown study area and revisions to the sign code. RECOMMENDATION: • Adopt the resolution imposing a six-month moratorium on signs in the downtown study area and setting a public hearing on the moratorium • Direct the Administration to review the sign code as it pertains to the downtown and work with interested parties to recommend revisions BACKGROUND SUMMARY: Recent development and redevelopment efforts in the downtown are changing the nature and appearance of uses and their related signage. Relocation of the automobile dealers to the Automall and redevelopment of those properties for other uses, efforts of the city's Gateways Committee, additional bus and pedestrian activity around the interim transit hub, planning for the permanent transit hub, as well as the changing tenant mix of downtown buildings present an opportunity to implement regulations and guidelines for signs more in keeping with the vision and policies stated in the Comprehensive Plan. The level of activity has increased such that unless these new regulations can be implemented quickly, the opportunity to enhance the pedestrian scale and appearance of the downtown will be lost for several years. Staff will be working in partnership with downtown business and property owners and other downtown interests to develop recommendations for amending the sign code for the study area. CONCLUSION: The Administration recommends a six-month moratorium on signs in the downtown study area to allow time to review and revise regulations. SIGNMORA.DOC/ lie r►q � U' u 1 7 1n :4 Ow to coo o (�! U ppj = s- 0 0 H �/ +� o p 7- r 4, d ra MI Ft o � -+ aXa � Z. w � t o - 0 Oap + O ocn , Ci, 1 V lik v -------- .77r_L 77. lim__ Tvi —1--ITITT--nN, - 11\\-1 -- /, 1 li . -17 'jII'mmom'�'' TL \ S --nT _ �-_ ��� AID ���-1' ,` III�����-1 F 1 FFF $ ' '!am. _ 1111111T) • I) 7 IP ff 17 1- E1 1111 11 �lIJIl -ILP1 . II 1 i l l �1 I aimINE � 1 1r111UU . s r snv \ H ti ► ►i y i' I Lill IICq ! _ .IL I I s Illl -T ll er l•' •• r...., C filjn — Q \HhIwIJTrrrftr-d � 11 �-ram rnT IrITr ■ _ a s - 1 la I _ III IIIIIIIIIIII1111II '/ _L - n1 %0'11I►IIIIII W - ma= 1 rUflFITIIDFsftTEEfrr N 1 -uiI �I® Lit —® II ItII ' _ fl--ITc ,,„,,, \ELD OffillD ig."9_,IL_I j IIIlI1Ila int.. aer WI —-1± / 1 \ . id-ram [rrfl\C�1 ►t