2017-02-15 Economic Development Commission PacketOr E1)Alo
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AGENDA
Edmonds Economic Development Commission
Edmonds City Hall
Brackett Meeting Room, 121 5 h Ave N
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
6-8PM
6:00 P.M. - CALL TO ORDER
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Agenda (2.5 minutes)
3. Approval of January 18, 2017 Meeting Summary (2.5 minutes)
4. Audience Comments (5 minutes)
5. Subgroup Reports:
a. Highway 99 (25 minutes)
b. Signs (15 minutes)
c. Five -Corners (10 minutes)
d. Parking (5 minutes)
6. Old Business:
Metrics for Economic Development (20 minutes)
7. New Business
Future Leadership (5 minutes)
Broader Economic Development Strategy (10 minutes)
8. Roundtable Discussion (Council, Commissioners, City, Liaisons) (15 minutes)
9. Ideas for March Agenda (5 minutes)
10. Adjourn
Next regular meeting: March 15, 2017, 6 PM
DRAFT
CITY OF EDMONDS
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
January 18, 2017
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT
Jamie Reece
Darrol Haug
Matthew Waldron
Mary Monroe
Stephen Clifton
George Bennett
Michael Schindler
Nicole Hughes, arrived at 6:44 p.m.
Aseem Prakash
Nathan Monroe, Planning Board, ex officio
Bruce Faires, Port Commissioner, ex-officio
COMMISSIONERS ABSENT
Greg Urban, Edmonds Chamber, ex officio
Neil Tibbott, Councilmember, ex officio
STAFF PRESENT
Patrick Doherty, Econ. Dev & Comm. Serv. Dir.
Cindi Cruz, Program Coordinator
Rob Chave, Planning Manager
1. Economic Development Commission meeting called to order at 6:01 p.m.
2. Approval of Agenda: Approved as submitted.
3. Approval of 12/14/16 EDC Minutes: After minutes amended as stated, Stephen moved to
approve minutes as written, Mary seconded; motion passed.
4. Audience Comments No comments.
5. Presentation — 5-Corners Planning, Rob Chave, Planning Mgr. Gave brief history of Five -
Corners planning project conducted by University of Washington's Green Futures Lab and
Forterra (formerly the Cascade Land Conservancy) about 7 years ago. Contracted for around
$40,000 for a year -long planning project with grad students and professors in 2010 & 2011 to
study the Five -corners and Westgate neighborhoods. City split the two projects apart after the
UW/Forterra project was finished and focused on Westgate project first. In 2015, the Westgate
zoning and development changes were adopted into the City code while Five -Corners
Roundabout was completed. Positive feedback was received in workshops/surveys, etc. about
both areas. Five -Corners was unique in comparison to Westgate due to highway, topography, etc.
Five -Corners area is very flat, much more walkable, larger residential area adjacent to smaller
retail component than Westgate commercial district. Focus on public spaces use vs private
landowner spaces. Illustrative examples on PowerPoint presented to Planning Board. Roundabout
is a central focus. Buildings proposed to be pushed to street and parking behind. More residential
living in multi -family developments. To adopt zoning changes comprehensive plan does not need
to be amended by Planning Board. The EDC and ADB will be asked for opinions and the process
will happen in 2017. How does form -based code relate to these changes in zoning? Traditional
zoning doesn't accomplish the interface between private development and public property that
form -based zoning does with emphasis on the form of development rather than uses. Five -
Corners could be a bit of a hybrid of traditional zoning and form -based zoning. This would be
with type, look and feel of building. Form -base zoning will help in pushing the buildings where
you want them with more specific location of buildings. Form -based zoning doesn't work as well
when you have multiple landowners. Breaking ground depends on private property owners.
Bartells has recently submitted project in for development at Westgate. Phase -in plans for
Draft Meeting Summary
Economic Development Commission
January 18, 2017
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DRAFT
southwest corner at Westgate owned by Bartells. Recommendations from PB will be proposed for
codes amendments, etc. for Five -Corners zoning changes to go to CC for adoption. (EDC
expressed interest in research into existing codes affecting development). Monitor, follow, pay
attention to details, and potentially make recommendations. Connection between Five -Corners,
Downtown, Westgate, Hwy 99, etc. What are variables? How can EDC make a difference in the
future development? What are interests of property owners? Can developers be invited in to give
their opinions on what they would want to develop? Caution expressed to not delay process at this
point. EDC could be liaison to property owner group.
6. Subgroup Reports:
a. Highway 99: Mary discussed plan that was attached to packet. Some of the details of the plan
include: Incentives waiver for permit fees for low-income housing, encouraging development,
economic generators, workforce will not necessarily come to downtown Edmonds to utilize
businesses, could there be more feedback passed on to council. Mixed -use development is base of
plan, business and residential, hotel for hospital district, mixed -use first floor retail but won't be
major employers. Zoning is enhanced to allow more height, full range of multi -family, office,
small amount of retail. Mixed -use starts and encourages more development for residential. What
can City do to attract a hotel or office building instead of mixed use? What is advantage of office
building? Low-income housing is not necessarily an income generator. What will generate
income on Hwy 99? Don't have a detailed economic income analysis of various scenarios. 90%
of development in area is mixed -use buildings. How do you keep work -force living in the
community? Affordable -living is not necessarily low-income housing. Alternatives 1, 2, & 3.
What are goals? Consultants have hinted at working with property owner to create signature
project. Greenwood and University Village are mentioned as examples of good changes. Need a
good vision of the areas for improvement and there are examples in plan. Need to have diverse,
robust combination of development. Development in Shoreline along Hwy 99 corridor is used as
an example. Can the EDC have the chance to offer some input. Mary referred to page 8 for vision
in plan. Incentive to encourage development in WA state is limited to only housing. Can there be
any other incentives to encourage development? Loosen some zoning requirements such as
parking requirements. This is last section of Edmonds area that can be an economic driver. Have
sub -group create draft memo and bring to February meeting for approval.
b. Signs: Discussed details regarding off -site signage; keep in mind "A board" signs have never
been allowed off site even though there was not consistent enforcement. Fees are considered
excessive. Location of signs for off -sidewalk businesses is an issue. No A -board sign beyond 2'
of the entrance is problematic for businesses not abutting the sidewalk. BID is interested in
retail/business identification on side streets. WWU students are working on a mobile app for
wayfinding and shop identification. Council has until about March to make decision on signage
before enforcement resumes. Could test case be proposed for 6 months and make case for Council
change to existing ordinance? Sign sub -group will review ideas and come back next month for
review and comments. Reach out to Pam Stuller or Cadence Clyborne of the BID.
c. Parking: No meeting of City's committee since the last EDC meeting in December. Darrol had
offered to look at streets within a couple of blocks from the fountain to determine if cars are
parked efficiently. One determination is 22 feet is standard for parking, most cars are taking 20
feet or less. At least one added car could have parked in each segment if parked more efficiently.
That would mean an addition 10-20 added cars within two blocks of the fountain. Regarding
employee permits: 114 businesses have permits and 35 businesses represent 70% of the issued
permits. Companies with five or more permits range from 5-57 permits each with the average
being 12. Moving employee parking out further from the core will definitely free up parking on
Draft Minutes
Economic Development Commission
January 18, 2017
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DRAFT
street. Residential permits number in excess of 450 some analysis would need to be done to
determine the availability of residential versus public parking.
Need to consider changing prices of permits. It is very minimal fee per permit (between $.07 and
$.25 per day) and a potential increase of could be implemented over a few years. Patrick's
comments: Met with Public Works will come back to City parking group with recommendations.
Enforcement is approximately 10 tickets per day per day currently.
7. Old Business:
a. Solidify Future Priorities: Five -Corners, future developments. Vision and goals.
Understanding "penciling" out projects and how that makes a project viable. Updating some of
existing plans to help public understand return value of any particular project.
Motion to create 5-Corners subgroup and appoint subgroup members. George moved to form 5-
corners sub -group with deliverables to emphasize penciled out feasibility plan Matt
seconded. Motion passes. Nicole, Mike, George, volunteered for sub -group.
8. New Business:
9. Roundtable Discussion (Council, Commissioners, City, Liaisons): Darrol asked that
educational element for the Port of Edmonds projects to understand what they can do related to
the City's development rules at next meeting.
Bruce Faires: Port report - Puget Sound Express (PSE) very successful and will be increasing
their sailings for 2017 and 2018. Will ask for more information on where the customers of PSE
come from etc. The Port is potentially looking at partnership with Port of Seattle for increasing
tourism in Edmonds. Harbor Square will have very limited development unless residential zoning
is allowed.
Patrick advised there will be the annual Economic Alliance Snohomish County Forecast breakfast
on Thursday, February 23, 2017 in Lynnwood.
10. Ideas for February Agenda
11. Adjourned at 8 p.m.
Next regular meeting: February 15, 2017, 6 PM
Draft Minutes
Economic Development Commission
January 18, 2017
Page 3
DRAFT
GHES
SUBJECT: PROPOSED NEXT WORK ITEMS FOR EDC
DATE: DECEMBER 6, 2016
At the November EDC meeting a subgroup was established to convene and discuss next work
items for the full EDC to take up. The subgroup met on 11/22/16 and studied the priorities
established by the EDC earlier this year, proposing the following:
Continuing Education
As a way of providing a continuing source of education, familiarization, etc., to members on
important topics, the group recommends that presentations, updates, and other forms of
"continuing education" be made at each/most EDC meetings moving forward, possibly starting
at the next available meeting with a primer on GMA and its status. After that we could hear
from the Port about its role in economic development and its plans, etc. (probably hold off until
things settle on the SMP issues). Another topic would be to have a presentation about the
development regulations in different districts.
Possible Subgroup Topics
After reviewing the short-term (urgent and non -urgent) and long-term (urgent and non -urgent)
priorities offered by the full EDC earlier this year, the group recommends that the following
topics be considered for subgroups moving forward:
Five Corners planning and development. This may include a study of the current development
standards and how they might be discouraging appropriate redevelopment.
Identify and study redevelopment sites. Instead of the 50 sites suggested in the EDC's original
memo, the thought was to identify two or three key sites in one or two commercial districts,
study them and identify what the potential is and barriers are to redevelopment, reporting back
after each study, and then move onto another area(s) and two or three sites.
Downtown development regulations that might be barriers to redevelopment, especially for a
hotel and/or for 3-story, mixed -use development. The EDC memo offered the issue of the
ground -floor retail requirements perhaps needing another study and reconsideration at this
point (especially the 15' required ground -floor ceiling height).
Draft Minutes
Economic Development Commission
January 18, 2017
Page 4
DRAFT
MEMORANDUM
TO: MAYOR EARLING AND CITY COUNCILMEMBERS
FROM: JAMIE REECE, CHAIR, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
SUBJECT: RECOMMENDATIONS ON HIGHWAY 99 PLANNING
DATE: FEBRUARY 7, 2017
The Edmonds Economic Development Commission has reviewed and discussed ideas regarding the current draft of
the Highway 99 Subarea Plan. In summary, we believe the plan helps create a uniform set of codes and zoning
regulations that allow for an improved Highway 99 Corridor. We believe that the Highway 99 corridor is the largest
area for major economic development within the City of Edmonds. There are five points that we wish to emphasize,
and we encourage Council's feedback on these matters. More specifically:
• Importance of Commercial Development in the Corridor.The Commission urges Council to require all
development that fronts Highway 99 to include a commercial component. Currently, the Plan states mixed
use and commercial development is desirable along the corridor, however there is no requirement or
incentive to include a commercial element in new development. Requiring a commercial component will
help ensure vibrant activity and encourage resident spending within the City limits. In lieu of a requirement,
consideration should be given to developing incentives such as reduced parking or reduction in impact fees
for projects that include a commercial component.
• Importance of Council approval and timing of the plan. The Highway 99 thoroughfare has seen
significant redevelopment in areas to the north and south of Edmonds such as Lynnwood Crossing and the
many mixed use buildings in Shoreline. We believe that the Council should act quickly to pass the
recommended zoning and plan as put forth by staff and the consultant in an effort to reduce uncertainty and
inconsistencies with zoning along Highway 99. Creating an attractive environment for residential and
commercial development is an important initial step.
• Planning, Conducting Open Houses and Economic Development Forums. The Commission believes
that the Council and staff should develop marketing strategies that include inviting potential investors,
developers and companies to preview the area and the plan to garner feedback and input. We encourage
the City to begin with this effort sooner rather than later because of competition around us. Ideally the
participants of these forums or open houses would include developers of affordable and senior housing,
mixed commercial and residential use, medical and educational facilities as well as larger development
concepts such as light manufacturing, hotels and big -box retailers should also be included. We believe that
comprehensive beautification of the right-of-way will help attract investment and development.
• Staff should explore further, and present for Council consideration, any potential incentives for
development. We understand that Washington law creates limits on incentives to private developers.
There are however other ways to create incentives such as regional beatification, additions to local
infrastructure. There may be local fees that can be waived to attract developers and there may be Federal
or County programs that promote development of affordable housing. Every incentive that the City of
Edmonds can legitimately offer to developers should be explored, as the 99 Corridor redevelopment
inevitably will be a net gain to our community.
• A catalyst project to spark the redevelopment of the Highway 99 Corridor. This is Implementation
Strategy 8, (page 59), of the draft Plan. EDC believes this is an excellent way to jump start
development/redevelopment of the Corridor. Many cities in Washington have formed Public Development
Authorities that have supported redevelopment within specific districts. The City of Edmonds should explore
opportunities to partner with land owners along the Highway 99 corridor facilitate a catalyst project that will
create buzz and demonstrate the viability of development in the corridor. Exploring the consolidation and/or
relocation of City facilities to the corridor, co -investing in development, or the purchase of blighted or
underused properties are areas that the Committee advises Council to pursue.
• Future focus on place making in the International District. The Plan specifies the International District
as an economic opportunity, The Commission encourages Council to pursue this opportunity and direct Staff
and/or the Consultant to develop strategies on how to achieve this goal.
We acknowledge that the plan for Edmonds 99 creates a zoning environment that will be beneficial to the City of
Edmonds. It provides opportunities to increase economic activity and create jobs in one of the most viable areas of
the City. We are grateful for the opportunity to comment on this plan. Positive results in the Shoreline 99 project can
be continued into Edmonds, additional opportunity for increased economic development can result.
7.A.b
MEMORANDUM
Date: September 1, 2016
To: Interpretations File No. 2016-1
From: Shane Hope, Development Services Director
Subject: Total Size of Existing Wall Signs and Pedestrian Signs in
Downtown/Waterfront Area
Date Issued/Posted: SEPTEMBER 5, 2016
Effective Date: SEPTEMBER 20, 2016 (unless appealed in a timely manner)
ISSUE OUTLINE:
A sign code amendment (Ordinance # 4039) was adopted on August 2 and became effective on August
12, 2106. It is codified in Chapter 20.60 ECDC. The code change requires a permit for pedestrian signs,
which are defined to include A -frames and similar portable signage, in the downtown/ waterfront area.
It also adds limitations on number, size, and location of such signs. However, as business owners have
begun coming in to obtain their permits, the new requirement for pedestrian signs to count in the total
allowed signage for the frontage has become problematic for those existing businesses that already had
a permitted wall sign of maximum allowed size and a pedestrian sign that, of itself, meets the new size
and location requirements except that, when counted together with the existing wall sign, exceeds the
total signage size limit.
ANALYSIS:
Businesses that previously installed wall signage to the allowed size and also used a pedestrian sign did
so under existing regulations at the time. To now remove and replace the existing wall signage with new
smaller wall signage, so that an existing pedestrian sign can be retained, would be costly. A question has
arisen whether businesses may obtain a pedestrian sign permit if they have an existing pedestrian sign
that meets all requirements for pedestrian signs, except that the combined size of the pedestrian sign
and the existing permitted wall signage would exceed the total allowed size by six square feet or less.
The nonconformance provisions of the Edmonds Community Development Code (Chapter 17.40 ECDC)
allow certain uses that were once allowed but are no longer allowed, due to a later code change, to
continue under limited conditions. ECDC 17.40.040 (Nonconforming Signs) has particular relevance.
This provision is not intended to allow wholesale continuation of uses once legal but later prohibited or
restricted. However, the nonconformance provision (sometimes known as "grandfathering") may be
Packet Pg. 14
7.A.b
interpreted to apply in the narrow context of the new limit on the combined total size of an existing wall
sign (permitted prior to August 12, 2016) and a pedestrian sign (allowed prior to August 12, 2016), when
a pedestrian sign meets all other requirements of ECDC 20.60.055, as amended.
At the same time, it is recognized that the sign code is undergoing further review and the City Council
has requested that the Development Services Department report back on this topic, including
implementation of Ordinance No. 4039, in 2017. The sign code may be amended by the City Council at
any time and additional restrictions added. Any interpretation now regarding pedestrian signage should
not be viewed as continuing long-term.
THEREFORE, THE FOLLOWING INTERPRETATION IS HEREBY ISSUED:
In the downtown/waterfront area, where a wall sign exists that was legally permitted prior to August
12, 2016, and a pedestrian sign has been in place during some or all of the period between June 12,
2016 and August 12, 2016, the pedestrian sign need not be counted in the total square footage of the
allowed size for permanent signage for purposes of obtaining a permit for the pedestrian sign,
provided that a complete permit application is received within 45 days of the effective date of this
interpretation.
❑ This interpretation does not apply to any other aspects of the sign code. To wit, the number,
size, and location of individual pedestrian signs and any other applicable code restrictions
must otherwise be fully met.
11 This interpretation does not apply to pedestrian signs when a wall sign is applied for after
August 12, 2016.
❑ This interpretation does not apply if:
o A complete application for a pedestrian sign permit is not received by the City within
45 days of the effective date of this interpretation; or
o The City's sign code is amended after August 12, 2016 to further restrict or prohibit
pedestrian signs in a manner that would conflict with this interpretation.
APPEAL PROCDURES:
Pursuant to Edmonds Community Development Code (ECDC) Section 20.01.003(A), formal
interpretations of the text of the ECDC by the director or designated staff are appealable as Type II
decisions.
Should anyone wish to appeal this interpretation, a written appeal, accompanied by the required appeal
fee (see Planning Division fee handout) must be submitted within 14 calendar days of the date of
issuance/posting of this interpretation.
The deadline for filing an appeal of this interpretation is: 4:30 P.M. ON SEPT. 19, 2016.
A written appeal must contain the following:
1. The appellant's name, address and phone number;
2. A statement describing the appellant's standing to appeal;
3. Identification of the application which is the subject of the appeal;
4. The appellant's statement of grounds for appeal and the facts upon which the appeal is based
with specific references to the facts in the record;
5. The specific relief sought;
Packet Pg. 15
7.A.b
6. A statement that the appellant has read the appeal and believes the contents to be true,
followed by the appellant's signature.
Notice: 1) Published in the Everett Herald
2) Posted at Edmonds City Hall, 2nd Floor— Development Services Department
3) Posted at Public Safety Complex, 121 5t" Ave N
4) Posted at Edmonds Library
Packet Pg. 16
Edmonds
Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
Chapter 20.60
SIGN CODE
Sections:
20.60.000
Purpose.
20.60.005
Definitions.
20.60.010
Permit required.
20.60.015
Design review procedures.
20.60.020
General regulations for permanent signs.
20.60.025
Total maximum permanent sign area.
20.60.030
Wall signs — Maximum area and height.
20.60.035
Window signs — Maximum area.
20.60.040
Projecting signs — Maximum area and height restrictions.
20.60.045
Freestanding signs — Regulations.
20.60.050
Wall graphic and identification structures.
20.60.055
Pedestrian signs.
20.60.060
Campaign signs.
20.60.065
Real estate signs.
20.60.070
Construction signs.
20.60.080
Temporary signs.
20.60.090
Prohibited signs.
20.60.095
Exempt signs.
20.60.100
Administration.
Page 1/18
20.60.000 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to enact regulatory measures to implement those goals and policies stated in the
Edmonds Comprehensive Policy Plan and to achieve the following objectives:
A. Protect the public right-of-way from obstructions which would impair the public's use of their right-of-way.
B. Minimize the hazard to the public represented by distractions to drivers from moving, blinking, or other similar
forms of signage or visual clutter.
C. Provide for distinct signage for each distinct property.
D. Encourage the use of graphics/symbols to reduce the visual clutter associated with overly large letters or
extensive use of lettering.
E. Minimize potential for view blockage and visual clutter along public rights -of -way. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A),
2016; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.005 Definitions.
For the purposes of the enforcement of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply:
"Attached sign" is any sign attached or affixed to a building. Attached signs include wall signs, projecting signs, and
window signs.
"Boxed cabinet sign" is a permanent sign that is mounted on the face of a building that is roughly rectangular in
shape and provides for internal illumination and changing the message of the sign by replacing a single transparent
or translucent material such as a Plexiglass/Lexan face. This definition is meant to distinguish between a cabinet
sign that is essentially a rectangular box and one that follows the outlines of the letters of the sign, or an "outline
cabinet sign."
"Building ID/historic sign" is a permanent sign that identifies or names a building and assists in creating landmarks
in the city. Examples include dates, "1890"; names, "Beeson Building"; or addresses.
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
Packet Pg. 17
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Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
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"Campaign sign" is a temporary sign displaying a message relating to a candidate, political party, or issue that is
registered or certified for an upcoming election.
"Commercial sign" is a sign displayed for the purpose of identifying a commercial use, or advertising a service,
product, business or venture that is offered for trade or sale.
"Community event banner" is a noncommercial sign composed of cloth, fabric, canvas or similarly flexible material
that promotes a temporary community event endorsed, operated or sponsored wholly or in part by a local public
entity the jurisdiction of which includes the city of Edmonds. "Community events" are nonprofit, governmental or
charitable festivals, contests, programs, fairs, carnivals or recreational contests conducted within the city.
"Construction sign" is a permanent or temporary sign displayed on premises where any physical excavation,
construction, demolition, rehabilitation, structural alteration or related work is currently occurring, pursuant to a
valid building permit.
"Directional symbols" are small in size (two square feet or less) and intended to provide on -site directions to
specific locations or areas (such as parking areas, drive -through facilities, ATMs and entries and/or exits), hours of
operation, parking limitations, warnings of hazards, prohibition of activities (such as "no parking"), historical
markers and similar public information. Directional symbols are not considered to be signage as regulated in this
chapter.
"Fixed sign" is any sign attached or affixed to the ground or any structure in such a manner so as to provide for
continuous display for an extended or indeterminable period of time. Fixed signs include, but are not limited to,
freestanding signs and wall signs.
"Freestanding sign" is any sign that is not attached or affixed to a building. Freestanding signs can be further
described as "monument signs" or "pole signs."
"Governmental sign" is a sign owned, operated or sponsored by a governmental entity, and which promotes the
public health, safety or welfare. Governmental signs include, but are not limited to, traffic signs, directional and
informational signs f r ,... lie f ,.:, publicly sponsored warning or hazard signs, and community event banners
displayed by a governmental entity on public property.
"Group sign" is a sign or signs on one sign structure serving two or more businesses sharing a parking facility.
"Halo sign" is a sign where the light source is concealed behind an opaque face and the rays of illumination are
projected outward around the edges of the sign or directed against the surface behind the sign forming a silhouette or
halo effect. Halo signs are not considered to be internally illuminated signs for the purposes of this chapter.
"Identification structure" is a structure intended to attract the attention of the public to a site, without the use of
words or symbols identifying the businesses. Examples include fountains, sculptures, awnings, and totem poles.
"Internally illuminated signs" include any sign where light shines through a transparent or semi -transparent sign face
to illuminate the sign's message. Exposed neon is considered to be a form of internal illumination.
"Marquee" or "canopy" is a permanent roofed structure attached and supported by the building.
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
Packet Pg. 18
Edmonds
Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
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"Marquee sign" is any sign attached to or made a part of a building marquee. A marquee sign is a form of projecting
sign.
"Monument signs" are freestanding signs that have integrated the structural component of the sign into the design of
the sign and sign base.
"Noncommercial sign" is a sign that is intended to display a religious, charitable, cultural, governmental,
informational, political, educational, or artistic message, that is not primarily associated with a good, product, or
service offered for sale or trade. Noncommercial signs include signs advertising incidental and temporary
commercial activities conducted by churches and nonprofit businesses, clubs, groups, associations or organizations.
"Off -premises sign" is any sign that advertises or relates to a good, product, service, event, or meeting, that is
offered, sold, traded, provided, or conducted at some location or premises other than that upon which the sign is
posted or displayed. Off -premises signs include all signs posted or displayed in the public right-of-way.
"On -premises sign" is any sign that advertises or relates to a good, product, service, event, or meeting that is
lawfully permitted to be offered, sold, traded, provided, or conducted at the location or premises upon which the
sign is posted or displayed. On -premises signs also include signs not related to any particular location or premises,
such as signs displaying religious, charitable, cultural, governmental, informational, political, educational, or artistic
messages that are intentionally displayed by the owner of the property or premises upon which the sign is displayed.
"Outline cabinet sign" is a permanent sign that is mounted on the face of a building that roughly follows the shape of
the text or symbology of the sign and provides for internal illumination. This definition is meant to distinguish
between a cabinet sign that follows the outlines of the letters of the sign and one that is essentially a rectangular box
or a "boxed cabinet sign." An "outlined cabinet sign" will be treated more like an "individual letter sign" where the
area of the sign is calculated based on the actual outlined shape of the sign.
"Permanent sign" is a fixed or portable sign intended for continuous or intermittent display for periods exceeding 60
days in any calendar year.
"Pole signs" are freestanding signs where the structural support for the sign is one or more exposed pole(s). Pole
signs may include community event banners where the banner is supported by at least two poles that are
permanently attached to the ground ("pole -mounted community event banners"). However, pole signs with two
poles that are not more than six feet in height are considered to be monument signs.
"Portable sign" is any sign that is readily capable of being moved or removed, whether attached or affixed to the
ground, or any structure that is typically intended for temporary display. Portable signs include, but are not limited
to:
1. Signs designed and constructed with a chassis or support with or without wheels;
2. Pedestrian signs, including signs such as A -frame (sandwich board), stanchion, easel, or post -style signs
intended as freestanding signs in pedestrian environments;
Left: Stanchion sign
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
Packet Pg. 19
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Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
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3. Wooden, metal, or plastic "stake" or "yard" signs;
4. Posters or banners affixed to windows, railings, overhangs, trees, hedges, or other structures or vegetation,
except for pole -mounted community event banners;
5. Signs mounted upon vehicles parked and visible from the public right-of-way, except signs identifying the
related business when the vehicle is being used in the normal day-to-day operation of the business, and except
for signs advertising for sale the vehicle upon which the sign is mounted;
6. Searchlights;
7. Inflatables.
"Premises" is the actual physical area of the lot upon which a sign is posted or displayed.
"Projecting sign" is any sign attached or affixed to a building or wall in such a manner that its leading edge extends
more than 12 inches beyond the surface of such building or wall.
"Reader board sign" is a sign that is designed to allow for a change in the message, either by adding or removing
plastic letters, or by means of electronics and lights. Reader boards do not include signs which have a changeable
message where the sign does not change more than once per day and where the changeable features are integrated
with the background and overall design of the sign, including the sign's typefaces, colors and symbology. Individual
letters or numbers placed on a solid colored background is considered to be a reader board.
Two signs at left: Acceptable changeable message sign;
Two signs at right: A reader board.
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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SOULAR POWERED
BY THE SO4
COME IN AIlO WORSHIP
PASTOR REV HARRY H JOHNS III
"Real estate sign" is a sign displaying a message relating to the sale or rent of real property.
"Sign" is any structure, device or fixture that is visible from a public place, that incorporates graphics, symbols, or
written copy for the purposes of conveying a particular message to public observers, including wall graphics or
identification structures.
"Sign area" is the area of a sign on which copy is to be placed, as set forth in ECDC 20.60.020(A).
"Temporary sign" is a sign intended for short-term display, not to exceed 60 calendar days in any calendar year.
Window signs meeting the requirements of ECDC 20.60.035 are not regulated as temporary signs.
"Wall graphic" is a wall sign, including murals, in which color and form, and primarily without the use of words, are
a part of the overall design on the building(s) where the wall graphic is proposed. A wall graphic may be painted or
applied (not to exceed one-half inch in thickness) to a building as a part of its overall color and design, but may not
be internally lighted. Internally lighted assemblies, including those which project from the wall of the structure, or
which are located on any accessory structure on the site, shall be considered wall signs and comply with the
requirements of this chapter.
"Wall sign" is a sign that is attached or affixed to a wall and that is parallel to and not projecting more than 12
inches at any angle from such wall. Wall signs include signs that are painted directly upon a wall.
"Window sign" is a sign that is attached or affixed to a window, or a sign displayed within 24 inches of the inside of
a window in such a manner as to be visible from any public place. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3800 § 1,
2010; Ord. 3631 § 1, 2007; Ord. 3628 § 8, 2007; Ord. 3561 § 1, 2005; Ord. 3514 § 1, 2004; Ord. 3461 § 2, 20031.
20.60.010 Permit required.
A. Except as provided in this chapter, no permanent sign may be constructed, installed, posted, displayed or
modified without first obtaining a sign permit approving the proposed sign's size, design, location, and display as
provided for in this chapter.
B. Design approval is not required for the posting of permanent signs in residential zones; provided, that the
restrictions and standards of this chapter are met. If additional signage is requested for conditional or nonconforming
uses in residential zones, the property owner shall apply for design review. Design review is not required for any
sign which does not require a building permit.
C. A sign modification shall include, but is not limited to, relocations, modifications to size, design, height or color
scheme, or the replacement of 25 percent or more of the structural material in the sign area. Normal and ordinary
maintenance and repair, and changes to the graphics, symbols, or copy of a sign, without affecting the size,
structural design, height, or color scheme, shall not constitute modifications for purposes of this section. [Ord. 4039
§ 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3514 § 2, 2004; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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20.60.015 Design review procedures.
A. Staff Approval. Except as referred to the architectural design board pursuant to subsection (A)(1) of this section,
and except as provided in subsection (B) of this section, the planning manager, or designee, shall review all
applications for design review under this chapter, and shall approve, conditionally approve or deny the application in
accordance with the policies of ECDC 20.10.000 and the standards and requirements of this chapter; provided, that
for murals and artwork the planning manager or designee shall review the application in accordance with the criteria
set forth in subsection (C) of this section. The decision of the planning manager on any sign permit application shall
be final except that signs reviewed by the architectural design board are appealable to the hearing examiner.
1. The planning manager or designee may refer design review applications to the architectural design board for
the types of signs listed below, where the planning manager determines that the proposed sign has the potential
for significant adverse impacts on community aesthetics or traffic safety:
a. Any sign application for an identification structure as defined by this chapter;
b. Any sign application for a wall graphic as defined by this chapter;
c. Any proposed sign that the planning manager determines to be obtrusive, garish or otherwise not
consistent with the architectural features of the surrounding neighborhood.
B. Review by Architectural Design Board. The architectural design board shall review those signs listed in
subsection (13)(1) of this section and any sign permit referred by the planning manager pursuant to subsection (A)(1)
of this section.
1. The ADB shall review any sign permit application that requests a modification to any of the standards
prescribed by this chapter. The ADB shall only approve modification requests that arise from one of the
following two situations:
a. The request is for signage on a site that has a unique configuration, such as frontage on more than two
streets, or has an unusual geometric shape or topography;
b. The request is for signage on a building that has unique architectural elements or features or details that
substantially restrict the placement or size of signage relative to other buildings in the vicinity.
2. The ADB may approve the requested modification only if it meets the following criteria:
a. The design of the proposed signage must be compatible in its use of materials, colors, design and
proportions with development throughout the site and with similar signage in the vicinity;
b. In no event shall the modification result in signage which exceeds the maximum normally allowed by
more than 50 percent.
C. Staff Review of Murals and Artwork. When a proposed wall graphic is proposed as a mural or artwork, the
planning manager or designee shall review and approve, conditionally approve, or deny the application in
accordance with the following criteria. While a separate sign permit is required for each wall graphic, the staff may
make a single design review decision on wall graphics that consist of related murals or artwork. Related murals or
artwork may include multiple proposals for sites within reasonable proximity to each other that are related by theme,
style, materials used, and/or context. The decision of the staff on any design review application containing a mural
or art as a wall graphic may be appealed to the city council pursuant to the procedure established in Chapter 20.06
ECDC.
1. Art, like other exercises of First Amendment rights, may be limited by reasonable time, place, and manner
restrictions. In this case, these criteria will be utilized to enhance the aesthetics of the city and to ensure quality
and maintenance standards are observed. No recommendation shall be based upon the content or message
expressed by an artist or in a work of art. Applicants are encouraged to coordinate their artwork with the design
or architectural elements of the building and the historic and pedestrian -oriented character of the downtown
area.
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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2. Specific submission requirements for design review include, but are not limited to:
a. Site sketch showing locations of artwork;
b. Minimum one -fourth -inch scale color drawings of the art concept or art component;
c. Material/color samples;
d. Written Proposal. A written proposal in eight -and -one -half -inch -by- 11 -inch format to include a
description and summary of a final design proposal for the artwork; detailed maintenance requirements; a
schedule for development, fabrication, and completion; artist's resume; and evidence of assumption of
liability by applicant or designee; and
e. When required pursuant to ECDC 20.45.050, a certificate of appropriateness shall be obtained from the
historic preservation commission for murals on designated historic structures or within a designated
historic district.
3. Review Criteria. Review criteria for the design review include:
a. Quality of the materials used to create the artwork. Materials should be resistant to fading; no
fluorescent paints;
b. Durability and permanence, including ability to withstand age, vandalism, and weathering.
Consideration should be given to anti -graffiti coating; and
c. Compatibility of the artwork with architectural elements, other elements of the street, and adjacent
structures. Compatibility shall be determined by relationships of the elements of form, proportion, scale,
color, materials, surface treatment, and size and style of lettering. Lettering shall be minimized, but may
be considered for inclusion when necessary to the artistic content.
D. Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (A), (B), and (C) of this section, sign permit applications shall not
be referred to or reviewed by the architectural design board if the proposed sign constitutes a modification to an
existing sign and involves no significant alteration or modification to the size, height, design, lighting or color of the
existing sign. Sign permit applications for such sign modifications shall be processed and subject to review in the
same manner as provided for staff review in subsection (A) of this section. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3800
§ 1, 2010; Ord. 3736 § 60, 2009; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.020 General regulations for permanent signs.
A. Sign Area. The area of a sign shall be calculated as follows:
1. The area of a sign is maximum actual area of a sign that is visible from any single point of observation from
any public vantage point. The sign area is normally the smallest rectangle that encloses the entire copy area of
the sign.
2. Individual letters, numbers or symbols applied directly to a wall or structure and used to form the sign shall
be calculated individually.
3. Supporting structures which are part of a sign display shall be included in the calculation of the sign area,
except that the supporting structure of a monument sign or pole sign shall not be included when calculating the
sign area.
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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Right: Applied individual letters are calculated separately.
Monument sign: The base is not included in the calculation of sign area (dashed rectangle).
B. When located on a wall or mansard roof, no sign may extend above the highest point of the wall or mansard roof
when the mansard roof is on a one-story building. Other than a mansard roof on a one-story building, a sign may not
be attached above the eave or drip line on a pitched roof.
C. Except for pole -mounted community event banners, no sign or any part of a sign may be designed or constructed
to be moving by any means and shall not contain items such as banners, ribbons, streamers and spinners. Signs with
type that is movable to change the message (reader boards) are allowed, subject to the specific requirements detailed
elsewhere in this chapter.
D. Signs that extend into or over a public right-of-way shall comply with Chapter 18.70 ECDC.
E. Exposed braces and angle irons are prohibited unless they are part of a decorative design that is integral to the
design of the sign. Guywires are prohibited unless there are no other practical means of supporting the sign.
F. No sign shall have blinking, flashing, fluttering or moving lights or other illuminating device which has a
changing light density or color; provided, however, temperature and/or time signs that conform in all other respects
to this chapter are allowed. Electronic reader boards may have messages that change; however, moving messages
are not allowed. Messages that change at intervals less than 20 seconds will be considered blinking or flashing and
not allowed.
G. No light source which exceeds 20 watts shall be directly exposed to any public street or adjacent property.
H. No illumination source of fluorescent light shall exceed 425 milliamps or be spaced closer than eight inches on
center.
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I. No commercial sign shall be illuminated after 11:00 p.m. unless the commercial enterprise is open for business
and then may remain on only as long as the enterprise is open.
J. No window signs above the first floor shall be illuminated.
K. Sign height shall be determined as follows:
1. For attached signs, sign height is the vertical distance from the highest point on the sign to the average
finished grade.
2. For freestanding signs, sign height is the vertical distance from the highest point of the sign area or its
support to the average elevation of the finished grade at the base of the supports.
L. Portable signs may not be used as permanent signage; only fixed signs are permitted.
M. The following matrix summarizes the types of signs permitted in each neighborhood/district within the city:
Sign Type
Downtown'
SR-99'
Westgate/SR-1043
Neighborhood
Commercial (BN,
BP and FVMU
Zones)
Business Uses in
RM Zones
Wall -Mounted
P
P
P
P
P
Monument
C
P
P
C
C
Pole
N
P
N
N
N
Projecting
P
P
P
P
P
Internal Illumination
C
P
P
C
N
Reader Boards
C
C
C
C
C
Individual Letters
P
P
P
P
P
Boxed Cabinet
N
P
C
C
N
Building ID
P
P
P
P
P
Pedestrian
P
N
N
N
N
Wall Graphics
C
C
C
C
C
' Downtown includes all properties within the Downtown Activity Center defined in the comprehensive plan.
Z SR-99 includes all properties within the Medical -Highway 99 Activity Center and the Highway 99 Corridor defined in the comprehensive
plan.
3 Westgate/SR-104 includes all properties within the Westgate Corridor, the Edmonds Way Corridor, and within the Westgate Community
Commercial area, as defined in the Comprehensive Plan.
Note: In the above table, P = Permitted; N = Not permitted; C = Conditionally permitted through design review if consistent with the standards
itemized in subsection (N) of this section.
N. The following standards clarify how some signs identified as "conditionally permitted" must be installed to be
permitted in the city of Edmonds:
1. Monument signs over six feet in height must be reviewed to ensure that the materials, colors, design and
proportions proposed are consistent with those used throughout the site.
2. Internally illuminated signs in the downtown area and neighborhood commercial areas may only light the
letters or logos/symbols. The background of a sign face may not be illuminated.
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3. Internally illuminated signs in the downtown area and the neighborhood commercial areas must be mounted
on the wall of the building. They may not be mounted on or under an attached awning.
4. Internally illuminated signs that use exposed neon may only be located in the interior of buildings in the
downtown area and the neighborhood commercial areas.
5. Internally illuminated signs in the downtown area shall not be permitted to be higher than 14 feet in height.
6. Reader board messages are limited to alphanumeric messages only.
7. Reader boards are only permitted for public uses or places of public assembly. Public uses and places of
assembly include, but are not limited to, schools and churches as well as local and regional public facilities.
8. The background color of a boxed cabinet sign face must be coordinated with and complement the colors used
on the building.
9. The background color of a boxed cabinet sign face must be opaque and not allow any internal illumination to
shine through. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3631 § 2, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.025 Total maximum permanent sign area.
A. Business and Commercial Zone Districts (BN, BP, BC, BD, WMU, CW and CG).
1. The maximum total permanent sign area for allowed or permitted uses in the BN, BC, BD and CW zones
shall be one square foot of sign area for each lineal foot of wall containing the main public entrance to the
primary building or structure located upon a separate legal lot.
2. The maximum total permanent sign area for allowed or permitted uses in the CG zone shall be one square
foot of sign area for each lineal foot of building frontage along a public street and/or along a side of the
building containing the primary public entrance to a maximum of 200 square feet. The allowable sign area shall
be computed separately for each qualifying building frontage, and only the sign area derived from that frontage
may be oriented along that frontage. Sign areas for wall -mounted signs may not be accumulated to yield a total
allowable sign area greater than that permitted upon such frontage, except that businesses choosing not to erect
a freestanding sign may use up to 50 percent of their allowable freestanding sign area for additional attached
sign area. Use of the additional area shall be subject to the review of the architectural design board.
3. The maximum total permanent sign area may be divided between wall, projecting, and freestanding signs, in
accordance with regulations and maximum sign area and height for each type of sign, as provided in ECDC
20.60.030 through 20.60.050. Projecting signs (including blade signs) of four square feet or less and window
signs meeting the requirements of ECDC 20.60.035 do not count against the total permanent sign area
permitted.
4. The maximum number of permitted permanent signs is three per site, or three per physically enclosed
business space on commercial sites with multiple business tenants. A site with more than one street frontage is
allowed a maximum of five signs. Projecting (including blade) signs of four square feet or less and window
signs meeting the requirements of ECDC 20.60.035 do not count against the total number of permitted
permanent signs. Multi -tenant sites are allowed one additional group sign per street frontage identifying the
individual subtenants at the site. The total sign area of all signs permitted on site must also comply with the
maximum total permanent sign area specified in this chapter.
5. Where permitted, pedestrian signs do count against the permanent sign area and the number of signs
permitted.
Option 1: Modify(5) to state that pedestrian signs do not count against the permanent sign area, or,
Option 2: Add to (5) to memorialize Interpretation #2016-1 in the code (see attachment).
B. Residential Zone Districts (RS, RM).
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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1. The maximum allowable signage area for individual residential lots shall be four square feet per street
frontage, except as provided in subsection (13)(2) of this section.
2. The maximum allowable signage area for formal residential subdivisions, planned residential developments
(PRD), or multifamily structures containing at least 10 dwelling units shall be 10 square feet per main street
entrance into the subdivision or PRD. Only one sign may be provided at each main entrance.
3. The maximum total permanent sign area may be divided between wall and freestanding signs, in accordance
with regulations and maximum sign area and height for each type of sign, as provided in ECDC 20.60.030
through 20.60.050. Window signs meeting the requirements of ECDC 20.60.035 do not count against the total
permanent sign area permitted.
4. Signage in excess of that provided in subsections (13)(1) and (2) of this section for lawful nonconforming or
conditional nonresidential uses in residential zones may be approved through the issuance of a sign permit
pursuant to ECDC 20.60.010, subject to the maximum area and height limitations established for signs in the
BN zone.
5. The maximum number of permitted permanent signs is one, except that multifamily sites with more than one
vehicular entrance may have one permanent sign per entrance. The total sign area of all signs (excluding
incidental signs) permitted on site must also comply with the maximum total permanent sign area specified in
this chapter. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3805 § 1, 2010; Ord. 3628 § 9, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.030 Wall signs — Maximum area and height.
A. The maximum area of any wall sign shall be as follows:
Zone
Maximum Area of Sign
RS, RM
4 square feet
BN, BP, BC, BD, CW,
CG, WMU, FVMU
1 square foot per lineal foot of attached
wall
B. The maximum height of any attached sign shall be as follows:
Zone
Maximum Height of Sign
RS, RM
6 feet
BN, BP, BC, BD, CW,
14 feet or the height of the face of the
CG, WMU, FVMU
building on which the sign is located,
consistent with ECDC 20.60.020(B)
[Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3628 § 10, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.035 Window signs — Maximum area.
The maximum area of any window sign shall be as follows:
Zone
Maximum Area of Sign
RS, RM
4 square feet
BN, BP, BC, BD, CW,
CG, WMU, FVMU
1 square foot per each lineal foot of
window frontage
[Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3628 § 11, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.040 Projecting signs — Maximum area and height restrictions.
A. The maximum area of any projecting sign shall be as follows:
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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Zone
Maximum Area of Sign
RS, RM
Not permitted
BN, BP, BC, BD, CW,
WMU, FVMU
16 square feet
CG
32 square feet
B. The maximum height of any projecting sign shall be as follows:
Zone
Maximum Height of Sign
RS, RM
Not permitted
BN, BP, BC, BD, CW,
CG, WMU, FVMU
Height of the wall to which the sign is
attached
C. The sign area of a marquee sign may not exceed two feet in vertical dimension. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016;
Ord. 3628 § 12, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.045 Freestanding signs — Regulations.
A. Regulation. Permanent freestanding signs are discouraged. Freestanding signs shall be approved only where the
applicant demonstrates by substantial evidence that there are no reasonable and feasible alternative signage methods
to provide for adequate identification and/or advertisement.
B. Maximum Area. The maximum area of a freestanding sign shall be as follows:
Zone
Maximum Area of Sign
RS, RM
10 square feet (subdivision, PRD,
multifamily)
4 square feet (individual residence sign)
BN, BP
24 square feet (single)
48 square feet (group)
BC, BD, WMU,
32 square feet (single)
FVMU
48 square feet (group)
CW
32 square feet (single)
48 square feet (group)
CG
Sign area shall be governed by subsection (C)
of this section
C. Allowable Sign Area for Freestanding Signs — CG Zone. The total allowable sign area for freestanding signs on
general commercial sites shall be 56 square feet or one-half square foot of sign area for each lineal foot of street
frontage, whichever is greater, up to a maximum of 160 square feet of freestanding sign area. Multiple business or
tenant sites shall further be allowed an additional 24 square feet of freestanding sign area for each commercial tenant
or occupant in excess of one up to a maximum sign area of 160 square feet. Corner lots choosing to accumulate sign
area under the provisions of subsection (E) of this section shall be limited to 160 square feet.
D. Maximum Height. The maximum sign height of freestanding signs shall be as follows:
Zone
Maximum Height of Sign
RS, RM
6 feet
BN, BP, BC, BD, CW,
WMU, FVMU
14 feet
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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E. Location. Freestanding signs shall be located as close as possible to the center of the street frontage on which they
are located. Except for pole -mounted community event banners, freestanding signs may not be located on public
property. Sites on a corner of two public streets may have one sign on the corner instead of a sign for each frontage.
Monument signs not more than six feet in height may be located in a zoning setback, but not less than five feet from
a property line.
F. Number. In all zones, each lot or building site shall be permitted no more than one freestanding sign, except in the
business and commercial zones where a lot or site has frontage on two arterial streets, in which case there may be
permitted one sign per street frontage subject to the restrictions on area contained within this chapter.
G. Landscaping.
1. Each freestanding sign shall have a landscaped area twice the size of the sign area at the base of the sign. The
landscaping and sign base shall be protected from vehicles by substantial curbing.
2. The applicant shall provide a landscape performance bond in the amount of 125 percent of the estimated
costs of the landscaping, or $1,000, whichever is more. The bond shall be processed in accordance with
Chapter 17.10 ECDC. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3631 § 3, 2007; Ord. 3628 § 13, 2007; Ord. 3461 §
2, 2003].
20.60.050 Wall graphic and identification structures.
There are no area restrictions on wall graphics or identification structures. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3461
§ 2, 2003].
20.60.055 Pedestrian signs.
Pedestrian signs are only permitted on private property and in the adjacent right-of-way in the BC, BD, CW, and CG
zones located within the Downtown Waterfront Activity Center, as defined in the comprehensive plan. Pedestrian
signs are only permitted if they meet the following requirements:
A. Pedestrian signs may be permitted to be located either (1) between the business storefront and the public
right-of-way, or (2) on the sidewalk in front of the business storefront if the pedestrian sign meets the following
standards:
1. Only one pedestrian sign is permitted per ground floor storefront;
2. Businesses may make arrangements to rotate their pedestrian signs provided they meet the one
sign -per -storefront standard;
3. The sign shall be located within 10 feet of the building entry, unless it is ,.laeea in ,.',.,.a4ief that bette,-
ubli . pede .� ian aad •.Meet. ... aeeess, and must be placed within two feet of the building. Any
deviations from this standard must be submitted to the ar-chitectural design board for- r-eview and appr-oval-l�
nG-P-C, 20.6 mae2pproved by the Development Services Director if the Director finds that:
(a) an alternative location in front of the building occupied by the business is less restrictive to pedestrian
movement or accessibility, or,
(b) strict adherence to the locational standards of this section afford significant limitations on the ability of
the sign to provide information to the public, and placement on a sidewalk or paved surface elsewhere on
the business property can be accomplished without hindering public movement or accessibility.
4. A business located on a corner property shall have no more than one pedestrian sign, regardless of the
number of streets the business fronts on;
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5. If located on or near a sidewalk, building entry or pedestrian way, the sign shall be located to provide a
minimum of 4 inches of clearance for pedestrians to pass;
6. Pedestrian signs cannot be left outside during hours that the business is closed to the public;
7. Pedestrian signs are limited to:
a. Six square feet in area, two and one-half feet in width, and three and one-half feet in height for A -frame
or sandwich board signs; and
b. Six square feet in area, two and one-half feet in width, and four and one-half feet in height for
stanchion, easel or other types of pedestrian signs. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016].
20.60.060 Campaign signs.
A. On -premises campaign signs are permitted as a form of temporary signage in all zones, subject to the maximum
sign size limitations set forth in ECDC 20.60.080.
B. Off -premises campaign signs are permitted as a form of temporary signage in the public right-of-way; provided,
that the following requirements are met:
1. All campaign signs shall be posted in accordance with the regulations set forth in ECDC 20.60.080(B).
2. All off -premises campaign signs shall be removed within 10 days after the primary, general, or special
election to which they pertain.
3. Off -premises campaign signs shall be posted and displayed no earlier than upon declaration of candidacy in
accordance with Chapter 29.15 RCW, or other formal registration or certification of the candidate, party,
initiative, referendum or other ballot issue for an upcoming election, or 60 days prior to the election, whichever
time period is greater.
C. There is no maximum number of off -premises campaign signs that may be posted. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016;
Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.065 Real estate signs.
A. On -premises real estate signs are permitted as a form of temporary signage in residential and commercial zones,
subject to the maximum signage area and sign number limitations set forth in ECDC 20.60.080.
B. Off -premises real estate signs are permitted as a form of temporary signage, subject to the following
requirements:
1. Two and only two types of off -premises real estate signs shall be permitted:
a. An off -premises real estate directional sign is a sign displaying a directional arrow and either a company
or logo, or an indication that the property is for sale by its owner, and installed for the purpose of directing
the public to the property.
b. An off -premises open house sign is a form of temporary off -premises sign indicating the property is
currently open for viewing.
2. All off -premises real estate signs shall be posted in accordance with the regulations set forth in ECDC
20.60.080(B).
3. The maximum number of off -premises real estate signs allowed per property shall only be the number
reasonably necessary to direct people to the premises. An agent or owner shall be permitted no more than one
off -premises real estate directional sign per intersection and five in total. No more than one off -premises open
house sign shall be displayed per intersection and no more than five in total.
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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a. Each off -premises real estate directional sign shall bear a legible tag located on the sign or supporting
post indicating the date of posting and the address of the property to which it pertains.
b. Off -premises real estate open house signs shall only be posted during daylight hours when the real
estate agent or owner is in attendance at the property for sale or rent, and shall be removed immediately
upon the termination of an "open house" or other similar property display event.
4. No off -premises real estate signs shall be fastened to any traffic control device, public structure, fence, rock,
tree or shrub.
C. All on -premises and all off -premises real estate directional signs shall be removed within seven days after the
closing of the sale or lease of real property to which the sign pertains. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3461 § 2,
2003].
20.60.070 Construction signs.
Construction signs shall, irrespective of their duration, conform to the general regulations for permanent signs
specified under ECDC 20.60.020. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the maximum area of a
construction sign in any zone shall be 32 square feet. No sign permit is required for the posting of construction
signs; provided, that all construction signs shall be removed from the premises within 10 days of the cessation of the
excavation, construction, demolition, rehabilitation, structural alteration or related work on site.
Zone
Maximum Area of Signage (per Street
Frontage)
RS
16 square feet, or 32 square feet if one sign is
displayed for a project consisting of building
permits issued for four lots or more. Only one sign
may be displayed per project.
All other
32 square feet
zones
The preceding square footages shall be in addition to any other temporary signage permitted by ECDC 20.60.080.
[Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3514 § 3, 2004].
20.60.075 Governmental Signs
Governmental signs, while exempt from the processes and development regulations required by this Chapter, shall
be erected and maintained subject to rules and procedures established by the Development Services Director. In all
cases, the City retains the right to remove any governmental sign at its sole discretion.
20.60.080 Temporary signs.
A. On -Premises Temporary Signs. On -premises temporary signs are permitted in residential and commercial zones,
in addition to any allowed or permitted permanent signage, subject to the following restrictions and standards:
1. Residential Zones (RS, RM).
a. Only portable, freestanding or attached signs may be used as temporary signage.
b. Commercial on -premises temporary signage is not permitted, except for real estate signs as defined by
ECDC 20.60.065.
c. Maximum number is one attached or freestanding sign.
2. Commercial Zones (BN, BP, BC, BD, WNW, FVMU, CW, CG).
a. Only attached signs may be used for temporary signage. Attached signs may be affixed to any existing
building or sign structure that is permitted as a permanent structure on the property. New temporary
structures whose sole purpose is to display the temporary sign are not otherwise permitted.
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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b. Maximum duration of display is 60 days in any calendar year for the cumulative posting of all
temporary commercial signage upon each commercial location or premises. A ,.o. nit :s required,
c. Maximum number of temporary signs is one freestanding sign per property street frontage, and one
attached sign per building.
3. The total maximum area of on -premises temporary signage shall be as follows:
Zone
Maximum Area of Temporary Sign
RS, RM
6 square feet
BN, BP, BC, BD, CW,
WMU, FVMU
20 square feet
CG
30 square feet
4. The total maximum area for each allowed on -premises temporary sign shall be as follows:
Zone
Maximum Area of Temporary Sign
RS, RM
6 square feet (freestanding and
attached)
BN, BP, BC, BD, CW,
WMU, FVMU
20 square feet (attached)
CG
30 square feet (attached)
5. The maximum height of any allowed on -premises temporary sign shall be as follows:
Zone
Maximum Height of Sign
RS, RM
6 feet (freestanding and attached)
BN, BP, BC, BD, CW,
CG, WMU, FVMU
14 feet (attached)
6. In no case shall temporary signage be posted, located, or displayed in violation of the regulations for
permanent signs set forth in ECDC 20.60.020 through 20.60.050.
B. Off -Premises Temporary Signage. Off -premises temporary signs are allowed in residential and commercial
zones, in accordance with the restrictions and standards set forth below:
1. Commercial off -premises temporary signage is prohibited, except for real estate signs as permitted by ECDC
20.60.065; provided, that such off -premises real estate signs shall be posted, displayed, and removed as
provided for in that section, in addition to the provisions of subsections (B)(5) through (9) of this section.
2. Noncommercial off -premises signs are permitted in the public right-of-way; provided, that the posting and
display of off -premises signs in the public right-of-way shall require a street use permit where required
pursuant to Chapter 18.70 ECDC.
3. Maximum duration of display for all temporary off -premises signs is a cumulative of 60 days in any calendar
year, except as otherwise provided in ECDC 20.60.060 for campaign signs. Display may be continuous or
intermittent, except as otherwise provided in this section.
4. Except for campaign signs as provided in ECDC 20.60.060, all off -premises noncommercial signs relating to
a specific meeting, event, or occurrence shall be removed within 48 hours following the conclusion of the
meeting, event, or occurrence to which they relate.
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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5. Only portable freestanding signs may be used as temporary off -premises signage; provided, that the
following types of portable freestanding signs are prohibited from use as an off -premises sign:
a. Signs with a vehicular chassis or support with or without wheels;
b. Posters and banners;
c. Signs mounted upon vehicles;
d. Searchlights;
e. Inflatables.
6. Maximum number of allowed off -premises signs to be displayed simultaneously shall be one sign per sign
poster except as provided in ECDC 20.60.060 for campaign signs and in ECDC 20.60.065 for real estate signs
7. Maximum allowable sign area for all temporary off -premises freestanding signs is six square feet.
8. Maximum allowable sign height for all permitted off -premises signs is three feet.
9. All off -premises temporary signage shall be posted and displayed in accordance with the following
restrictions:
a. Off -premises signs may not be placed in any portion of the public right-of-way typically used by motor
vehicles in a lawful manner.
b. Off -premises signs shall be placed so as not to impede pedestrian, bicycle, or handicapped travel or
access.
c. Off -premises signs shall not be posted in a manner or location which impairs traffic safety by
unreasonably blocking line of sight at intersections.
d. Off -premises signs shall be constructed of suitable material and design to adequately withstand the
reasonably expected normal or average weather conditions during the intended display period of the sign.
e. Off -premises signs shall be regularly inspected to ensure that they have not been damaged or destroyed
by natural forces or vandalism. Damaged and destroyed signs shall be immediately removed or repaired so
as to avoid threats to public health and safety or the accumulation of unclaimed refuse upon the public
rights -of -way.
f. Off -premises signs shall not be posted upon public property other than the public right-of-way, and shall
further not be posted within or upon planter boxes and flower beds within the publicly maintained
landscaped portions of the public right-of-way. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3628 § 14, 2007; Ord.
3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.090 Prohibited signs.
A. General. All signs not expressly permitted by this chapter are prohibited.
B. Hazards. Signs which the director of public works determines to be a hazard to vehicle or water traffic because
they resemble or obscure a traffic control device, or because they obscure visibility needed for safe traffic passage,
are prohibited. These signs shall be removed if they already exist.
C. Confiscation of Prohibited Signs in Public Rights -of -Way. All signs which are located within a public
right-of-way and that have been improperly posted or displayed are hereby declared to be a public nuisance and
shall be subject to immediate removal and confiscation.
The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
D. Any signs confiscated by the city shall be held for 10 working days after which such signs may be destroyed or
otherwise disposed of. The owner of any confiscated signs may recover the same upon payment of a $25.00 fee to
cover the cost of confiscation and storage. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.095 Exempt signs.
The following types of signs are exempted from regulations of this chapter, except that the dimensional and
placement standards shall apply unless variance is required by other provisions of local, state or federal law: 0
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BA. Signs required by provision of local, state, or federal law. r
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EB. Official public notices required by provision of local, state, or federal law.
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-ED. Seasonal and holiday displays not incorporating the use of written copy or graphics to convey a message. n
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EE. Gravestones. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. c
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20.60.100 Administration. E
A. General. The community development director is responsible for administering and enforcing the provisions of 0
this chapter. He or she shall adopt application requirements for sign permits. Fees shall be as stated in Chapter 15.00 0
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B. Installation Permits. Many signs require installation permits under Chapter 19.45 ECDC and may require plan y
checking fees as well. G
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C. Notice of Violation. Whenever the planning director becomes aware of a violation of the provisions of this M
chapter, the planning director shall cause a notice to be sent to the alleged violator informing him or her of the
violation, the applicable code section, and a time within which to remedy the violation. The notice shall also advise
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of the penalties for continued violation of the code as specified in this chapter. If the violation has not been corrected
within the time limit specified, the planning director shall refer the matter to the city attorney's office for institution
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of appropriate legal action.
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D. Penalty. Any person violating any provision of this code shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction
thereof shall be punished by a fine of $25.00 for each day of continued violation. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord.
3461 § 2, 2003].
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The Edmonds City Code and Community Development Code are current through Ordinance 4056, passed December 6, 2016.
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