2016-05-25 Planning Board Packet�1 o� NJI Agenda
Edmonds Planning Board
"" Ixyo COUNCIL CHAMBERS
250 5TH AVE NORTH, EDMONDS, WA 98020
MAY 25, 2016, 7:00 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Approval of Draft Minutes May 11, 2016
3. ANNOUNCEMENT OF AGENDA
4. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
5. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
A. Director Report May 20, 2016
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Public Hearing on Potential Amendments to the Edmonds Sign Code. A focus of the hearing is to
gather input on three options dealing with temporary (e.g. A -frame) signs in the Downtown area,
including (1) banning temporary portable signs such as A -frames, (2) allowing them as temporary
signs for 60 days only (same as current code), or (3) allowing them as a form of permanent signage
with restrictions on time, place and manner. In addition to the amendments regarding temporary
portable signs, the draft amendments address a number of other minor clarifications and code
language updates/issues.
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Land Division Code Update
8. NEW BUSINESS
9. PLANNING BOARD EXTENDED AGENDA
A. Planning Board Extended Agenda
10. PLANNING BOARD CHAIR COMMENTS
11. PLANNING BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
12. ADJOURNMENT
Edmonds Planning Board Agenda
May 25, 2016
Page 1
2.A
Planning Board Agenda Item
Meeting Date: 05/25/2016
Approval of Draft Minutes May 11, 2016
Staff Lead: N/A
Department: Planning Division
Prepared By: Diane Cunningham
Background/History
N/A
Staff Recommendation
Approve the draft minutes
Narrative
Draft minutes are attached
Attachments:
PB160511d
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2.A.a
CITY OF EDMONDS
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES
May 11, 2016
Vice Chair Rubenkonig called the meeting of the Edmonds Planning Board to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers,
Public Safety Complex, 250 — 5`h Avenue North.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Philip Lovell, Chair
Carreen Rubenkonig, Vice Chair
Matthew Cheung
Todd Cloutier
Alicia Crank
Nathan Monroe
Daniel Robles
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT
Phillip Lovell (excused)
Valerie Stewart (excused)
Samuel Klevin (Student Representative (excused)
READING/APPROVAL OF MINUTES
STAFF PRESENT
Rob Chave, Planning Division Manager
Jerry Bevington, Video Recorder
Karin Noyes, Recorder
BOARD MEMBER CRANK MOVED THAT THE MINUTES OF APRIL 27, 2015 BE APPROVED AS
PRESENTED. BOARD MEMBER ROBLES SECONDED THE MOTION, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF AGENDA
The agenda was accepted as presented.
AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Natalie Shippen, Edmonds, referred to an email she sent to the Board prior to the meeting in which she shared an example
of boxes being placed near the door of a business on which advertising materials could be placed. She noted that the boxes
are small, mailbox type that can hang on the wall next to the entryways or on the walls. She also pointed out that the Board
has had significant discussion about the purpose of A -frame signs, and there seems to be a general acceptance that they
provide an economic benefit to the businesses in the downtown. However, there has been no discussion about how the signs
benefit the general public. She urged the Board to have a discussion about the public purpose of having the signs in the
rights -of -way.
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DIRECTOR REPORT TO PLANNING BOARD
Vice Chair Rubenkonig referred the Board to the written Director's Report. None of the Board had comments or questions
about the report.
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REVIEW OF SIGN CODE: TEMPORARY SIGNS
Mr. Chave announced that a public hearing on the draft sign code amendments is scheduled for May 25t'. The purpose of the
current discussion is to finalize or get closure on the options that will be presented to the public at the hearing. Staff s intent
is to publish information relative to the three options by Friday, May 13"', so the public has adequate time to review and
prepare for the hearing. He briefly reviewed the three options as follows:
Option 1 — This option would essentially prohibit A -frame and sandwich board signs from being allowed in the
downtown. The business "premises" would no longer be defined as including the sidewalk in front of the building,
and these types of signs would no longer be permitted as an allowed sign type downtown.
Option 2 — This option would add a new definition of "pedestrian sign" that would specify more types of signs,
including stanchion signs and other similar types. This option would continue the ability of businesses to use
pedestrian signs as a form of "temporary signage," but a permit would be required and the 60-day limit would be
retained as it currently exists for other types of temporary signage. Basically, this option would continue the status
quo, but add a permit requirement to help staff administer the regulations.
Option 3 — This option would change how "pedestrian signs" are treated downtown, considering them as a type of
regular signage rather than "temporary." In exchange for this, there would be more standards in terms of where they
can be located and how many would be permitted. The pedestrian signs would also count against the total sign area
permitted for a business or building. This option would acknowledge how a number of businesses in the downtown
currently use temporary signs. Option 3 is similar to Option 2, but more specific. Rather than allowing signs along
the entire storefront, the location would be limited to either two feet next to the building or two feet out at the edge
of the sidewalk, whichever provides the best through -way for people. In some cases, it may be less intrusive to the
pedestrian walkway if the signs are placed closer to the street near trees, etc. This approach allows the City to
determine the best location for the signs in order to maintain optimal pedestrian access.
Mr. Chave emphasized that the three options would be tied to pedestrian signs in the downtown/waterfront area, where there
is a pedestrian environment. They would still not be allowed elsewhere in the City.
Mr. Chave advised that in addition the three options pertaining to "pedestrian signs," there are a number of other suggested
code amendments included in the draft material. These are attempts to clarify or rectify problems or inconsistencies staff
have encountered in applying the sign regulations to specific circumstances over the years. He emphasized that none of the
proposed amendments would increase the sign area or the number of signs allowed per business.
Vice Chair Rubenkonig explained that the Board should focus its discussion on the three options that will be presented at the
public hearing on May 25 h. Mr. Chave said the other proposed amendments will be included in the draft language that is
published for the public hearing to solicit public comment. However, he agreed that the most significant change is to the
temporary sign provisions.
Vice Chair Rubenkonig suggested it would be helpful for the Board to discuss the differences and identify the criteria by
which the Board will review each of the three options. She reminded the Board that other sign types, including blade signs
and window signs, are allowed in the downtown and do not count against the total sign area that a business is allowed to
have. Mr. Chave agreed and noted that additional language from the sign standards was inserted into the draft code to make
this clear. He noted that these signs are already allowed in the existing sign code. However, Option 3 would include
pedestrian signs as part of the total sign area.
Vice Chair Rubenkonig asked if staff has the resources to administer either Option 2 or Option 3, and Mr. Chave answered
affirmatively. He explained that, while Options 2 and 3 would both require permits, Option 2 would require a new permit
every 60 days, and Option 3 would require just one permit that would be valid as long as the sign consistent with the code.
Vice Chair Rubenkonig noted that the Board received written comments regarding the draft sign code from Phil Lovell, Chair
of the Board, and from Laura Zeck, the owner of Zinc Art + Interiors. They also received a memorandum from the Edmonds
Downtown Business Association (ED) outlining their Sign Advisory Board's proposed revisions related to the sign code.
Planning Board Minutes
May 11, 2016 Page 2
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Board Member Crank noted that Board Members received the written comments just prior to the meeting. She suggested
they wait to discuss their content until the public hearing. The remainder of the Board concurred that would be appropriate.
Board Member Crank referred to ECDC 20.60.080(A)(2)(c)(2), which states that portable temporary signs cannot be left
outside during hours that the business is closed to the public. She asked if this same provision would apply to Option 2, and
Mr. Chave answered affirmatively and agreed to check the language to make sure the provision was included in both options.
Board Member Crank suggested that it would be helpful if staff could provide pictures at the public hearing to illustrate signs
that would and would not be allowed per each of the options. Seeing examples of what is currently happening in the
downtown would also be a helpful tool, and graphic illustrations would help the conversation move along faster. Mr. Chave
said he is planning to prepare a PowerPoint presentation that talks about the key provisions of each of the options, and
examples will be provided, as well. Vice Chair Rubenkonig said it would also be useful for staff to prepare a matrix to
clearly identify the differences between the three options.
Board Member Robles observed that Option 1 would be easy to implement and administer, but Options 2 and 3 would be
more difficult to control and manage. He recalled that, at the last meeting, he suggested that the Board also consider a "green
dot" option, which originated from Board Member Cloutier's recommendation that the Board's discussion should focus on
what problems they are trying to solve. The only tangible problem that has been identified is the need to maintain adequate
pedestrian access and meet the American's with Disabilities (ADA) requirements. Given that the Board is accountable for
ensuring the safety, health and welfare of the public, sign location should be planned based on this criterion. If the City
wants to be in the business or regulating signs, he suggested this could best be accomplished if the City were to make the
pedestrian signs and determine exactly where they can be located.
Board Member Robles observed that signs are a type of contract, statement of fact or statement of value. Any sign that does
not accomplish this should not be considered a sign. He said he believes the "green dot" approach is an easy way to manage
pedestrian signs, and he is surprised that staff didn't put more effort into developing the concept further. There are other
ideas that haven't been adequately heard, as well. He suggested that the Board postpone their recommendation until all ideas
have been heard. Mr. Chave said that is the purpose of tonight's discussion. The intent is to offer several options for the
public to respond to. Board Member Robles voiced concern that limiting the hearing to the three options would result in
people commenting without having a full menu of options. He asked that his planned -location approach be included as an
option for the hearing. Mr. Chave agreed to develop the option further if that is the Board's consensus.
Vice Chair Rubenkonig announced that the City Council agreed to work with students from Washington State University to
develop a wayfinding sign program and/or technology that would provide information about businesses in Edmonds. Mr.
Chave clarified that the City Council authorized staff to submit an application to participate in the program, but the selection
is competitive and there is no guarantee that the City will be chosen.
Board Member Monroe pointed out that, in addition to safety and maintaining pedestrian access, the Board has also discussed
a desire to address visual clutter. Board Member Robles suggested it would be the Architectural Design Board's
responsibility to establish the visual aspects of the sign code. Board Member Monroe concurred, but suggested that clutter
should at least be part of the Board's discussion.
Mr. Chave said that Option 3 would be easy to implement, and Option 2 would be more difficult. Board Member Monroe
asked if the permit fee would be the same for both Option 2 and Option 3. Mr. Chave answered affirmatively and explained
that the fee would be minimal. The permit is intended to enable the City to track pedestrian signs to ensure that pedestrian
areas are clear. The fee should be high enough to cover the cost of administration, but not so costly that it becomes an
obstacle.
Board Member Monroe suggested that both Options 2 and 3 imply a "green dot" solution, since they both limit where the
signs can be placed. While the concept was not specifically included as an option, it was not necessarily excluded, either.
Mr. Chave agreed and cautioned that what actually happens on the sidewalk can change over time. Adopting a "green dot"
approach would require the City to update the sign code each time something changes. Board Member Robles suggested that
the dots could be identified on a map rather than physical dots on the sidewalk. He cautioned against creating a sign code
Planning Board Minutes
May 11, 2016 Page 3
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that is too detailed and difficult to understand, and he felt that the "green dot" approach would be the simplest approach and
represent a good compromise.
Board Member Monroe asked the public benefit of allowing restaurants to serve food on the sidewalks. Mr. Chave answered
that a study was done some years ago that looked at how to create a more vibrant and attractive downtown, and street life
came up as being an important goal for the public environment. Allowing restaurants to have a limited presence on the
sidewalk adds to street life. However, it is also important to manage where they can be located. Board Member Robles
observed that, sometimes, outdoor dining expands beyond what the City approved and encroaches into the pedestrian area.
Mr. Chave agreed and said that would be a code enforcement issue.
Vice Chair Rubenkonig suggested that the Board should review each of the options based on the following criteria:
1. Whether or not pedestrian signs will be allowed.
2. What size of pedestrian signs can exist?
3. Where can pedestrian signs be located?
4. How many pedestrian signs will be allowed?
5. What benefit do pedestrian signs provide.
Vice Chair Rubenkonig suggested that this criterion should also be presented at the public hearing, along with examples to
illustrate existing pedestrian signs, as well as how Option 2 and 3 would be implemented. Board Member Cheung suggested
it would also be helpful for staff to specifically identify the differences between the three options. Vice Chair Rubenkonig
led a discussion about the differences between the options and suggested that a matrix be prepared for the public hearing to
visually illustrate the differences. The following is a summary of their discussion:
• Permits: Both Option 2 and Option 3 would require permits for pedestrian signs. Option 1 would not allow
pedestrian signs at all.
Location: Both Option 2 and Option 3 would require that pedestrian signs provide a minimum of 4 feet of
clearance for pedestrians to pass. Option 3 states that the preferred locations are within 2 feet of the building face or
within 2 feet of the curb if that location does not block access to parked vehicles. This would provide more
flexibility to place the sign in an area that is the least intrusive to the pedestrian walkway. The Board agreed that the
location criteria should be the same in both Option 2 and Option 3. Board Member Cloutier observed that requiring
the signs to be within 2 feet of the building or street would be similar to the "green dot" approach. Instead of dots,
there would be green bands. This requirement would eliminate the need for a case -by -case sign review to determine
location. Board Member Robles pointed out that, in some cases, putting the pedestrian sign next to the building
requires pedestrians to walk closer to the street where there is no weather protection. He would prefer that the signs
be placed closer to the street so that pedestrians do not have to walk in the rain.
• Time Limitations. It was pointed out that Option 2 would impose a 60-day time limit on pedestrian signs, and
Option 3 would not. In both Option 2 and Option 3, pedestrian signs cannot be left outside during hours that the
business is closed to the public.
• Number of Pedestrian Signs Allowed: Option 2 would limit the number of pedestrian signs to one per ground
floor storefront. Option 3 would also limit the number of pedestrian signs to one per ground floor storefront, but the
signs would count against the permanent sign area and the number of signs permitted.
• Sign Size: Options 2 and 3 both identify the same maximum size for pedestrian signs. The difference is that the
pedestrian sign area would count as part of the total sign area in Option 3, but not in Option 2.
• Benefits. The Board had a brief discussion about the pros and cons of permanent signs to both businesses and
citizens. The Board decided against having a lengthy discussion about the benefits criteria until after the public
hearing. They discussed that the public would inform them of their views relative to the benefits of each of the
options. Vice Chair Rubenkonig recommended that, at the public hearing, the Board should specifically solicit
comments from the public relative to the pros and cons of each option.
Planning Board Minutes
May 11, 2016 Page 4
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Rather than focusing on the pros and cons of each of the options, Board Member Crank reminded the Board that they should
focus on trying to solve the problems, which are ADA access and the proliferation of pedestrian signs. Board Member
Cheung pointed out that all three options would require ADA compliance, which is a federal mandate.
Board Member Robles asked if the City has a mission statement in place that could guide the discussion at the public hearing.
Board Member Cloutier answered that the City has a mission statement, which is contained in the Comprehensive Plan.
However, it is important to keep in mind that the Comprehensive Plan is a vision rather than the rule. Mr. Chave encouraged
the Board Members to review the Downtown Waterfront Plan, as well as the Economic Development Element, which are part
of the Comprehensive Plan. While the two documents do not specifically address pedestrian signs, they do speak about the
pedestrian environment. Vice Chair Rubenkonig suggested that the Board's recommendation to the City Council relative to
sign code amendments should tie in with the Comprehensive Plan, and specifically the two elements identified by Mr. Chave.
Mr. Chave said he anticipates the Board will receive a lot of input at the public hearing to help inform their recommendation.
Board Member Monroe asked why staff is recommending a 60-day limit for pedestrian signs in Option 2. Mr. Chave said
this is consistent with the current code language, so it would simply maintain the status quo.
The Board prepared the following chart to illustrate their discussion:
Existing
Sign Type
Sign Location
Sign Size
Time Limitation
Pedestrian Sin
Containment
Option 1
No
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Option 2
Yes
Pedestrian
"Green Zone"
Limited to 6 sq. ft.
60 days
Perhaps within 2
Does not count
feet of the
against total sign
building face or
area or total
within 2 feet of
number of signs.
the curb.
Option 3
Yes
Pedestrian
"Green Zone"
Limited to 6 sq. ft.
No limit
Perhaps within 2
Does count
feet of the
against total sign
building face or
area or total
within 2 feet of
number of signs.
the curb.
REVIEW OF EXTENDED AGENDA
Vice Chair Rubenkonig announced that a public hearing on the draft Sign Code Amendments is scheduled for May 25"'
Also on May 25tb, the Board will continue its discussion about the Subdivision Code Update.
PLANNING BOARD CHAIR COMMENTS
Vice Chair Rubenkonig commented that the Planning Board oversees the City of Edmonds Parks and Recreation Planning
Department, and they get quarterly, or at least regular reports. In that capacity, she would like to explore how the activities of
the department are chosen. In particular, she wants to focus on whether the Board has any oversite of the programs and
volunteer opportunities for the environment, education and service. The Planning Board represents the community's interest,
so their activism on behalf of the sustainability, health, and viability of the City Marsh, solar power, energy consumption, and
involvement in volunteer service is important. She asked if Public Works or Parks and Recreation Departments are the
managers of such programming. She reviewed that the Deer Creek Hatchery is located in Edmonds, and Edmonds has been
designated as a Backyard Natural Habitat. The City also has a Beach Watcher Program and the Frog Lady, who is integral to
many programs. She said she would like the Planning Board to look at all the programming (activities and commercial
provisions) and consider what oversight should be provided.
Planning Board Minutes
May 11, 2016 Page 5
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PLANNING BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
Board Member Cloutier announced that that an open house relative to the Highway 99 Subarea Plan is scheduled for May
19th from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Swedish Hospital.
Vice Chair Rubenkonig announced that an open house for the Waterfront Access Study is scheduled for May 12th from 6:00
to 8:00 p.m. at the Edmonds Library Plaza Room. An online open house will also be available from May 9th to May 234d.
Board Member Crank commented on the new signal light that was installed at 228th Street and Highway 99. She said she
lives off of Highway 99 and turning onto the highway is so much easier now because the light creates a natural break in the
traffic.
Board Member Robles announced that he will participate in a stakeholders interview relative to the Civic Center Master Plan
on May 17th from 1:00 to 1:30 p.m. Other Commissioners indicated they would be interviewed at separate times.
ADJOURNMENT
The Board meeting was adjourned at 8:22 p.m.
Planning Board Minutes
May 11, 2016 Page 6
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Planning Board Agenda Item
Meeting Date: 05/25/2016
Director Report May 20, 2016
Staff Lead: Shane Hope
Department: Development Services
Prepared By: Diane Cunningham
Background/History
N/A
Staff Recommendation
Review and consider information
Narrative
Director Report is attached
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OY F f]M
v
MEMORANDUM
Date: May 20, 2016
To: Planning Board
From: Shane Hope, Development Services Director
Subject: Director Report
Planning Board —Next Meeting
The Planning Board's next meeting is on May 25, with an agenda focused on:
❑ Public Hearing on Sign Code Update
❑ Land Division Code Update
REGIONAL UPDATES
Alliance for Housing Affordability
The Alliance for Housing Affordability (AHA), of which Edmonds is a member, has its next Joint
Board meeting on May 25. The agenda will include reviewing AHA's original goals and the work
program, as well as a presentation from County Councilmember Hans Dunshee about his
experience working on housing issues at the state level.
Sound Transit 3
Sound Transit received 34,706 survey responses and 2,320 written comments on the ST3 Draft
Plan that it released. The Sound Transit Board expects to make a decision in late June to
finalize the plan and bring a funding decision to the public ballot.
Puget Sound Regional Staff Committee
The PSRC Regional Staff Committee meeting on May 19 included information on:
❑ New regional open space mapping tool that is underdevelopment
❑ Transportation 20140: State of the System, Part 2
❑ Transportation 2040 update: technology issues (such as driverless cars) to address
LOCAL UPDATES
Highway 99 Area Planning
Over 70 people attended the Highway 99 Area Open House on May 19 at the Edmonds Swedish
Hospital (4th floor). At the open house, possible scenarios for the future of the Highway 99 area
were featured. The scenarios focused on transportation improvements and development
capacity in both the near -term (5-10 years) and longer term (10- years or more). However, the
scenarios were still at a very high level. The intent for the open house was to get early input on
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general concepts. People spoke about desires for housing, business viability, walkability, safety,
traffic flow, landscaping, and more. Next, the ideas will be refined, taking into account the
comments heard. Options and impacts will be analyzed. A more specific draft plan is expected
for further input this fall. The project website is: http://www.edmondshwV99.org/.
Also, a project summary, showing some graphics, will be given at an upcoming Planning Board
meeting.
City Council
Below are a few highlights from the May 17 City Council meeting:
❑ Arts Commission annual report and update on Community Cultural Plan implementation
❑ Public hearing on Civic Playfield right-of-way vacation, with Council consensus for a
resolution to vacate the rights -of -way to come back for action on The Council's consent
calendar
❑ Review of professional services agreement for master planning Civic Center Playfield
Waterfront Access
A Waterfront Access open house was held May 12 to provide information and get feedback on
the progress of the Waterfront Access Study. After studying approximately 40 access ideas, the
team is proposing to narrow the list, based on goals, feasibility, and other factors. The study
aims to determine the best feasible alternatives to at -grade railroad crossings at Dayton and Main
Streets, which are currently blocked by 35-40 trains each day along the city's waterfront and could
eventually be blocked by up to 100 trains a day by 2030. For people who could not attend the open
house, information and an opportunity for comments is available online through May 23. See:
http://edmondswaterfrontaccess.publicmeeting.info/. The study will be completed later this year.
Architectural Design Board
The ADB will have a special meeting on June 15 to discuss the Senior Center project.
Hearing Examiner
The Hearing Examiner's last decision was on a reconsideration of a Critical Areas Reasonable
Use Variance at 742 Daley Street. The reconsideration prompted a technical correction to the
findings but did not change the underlying approval. The approval is for a house that has a 336-
square foot footprint to be built on a vacant lot within the 100-foot critical area buffer of Shell
Creek.
The Hearing Examiner meetings for May 12 and May 26 are cancelled due to a lack of items
Historic Preservation Commission
The HPC met on May 12. Here are highlights:
❑ Presentation on the Edmonds Museum maintenance project and meeting discussion has
been continued to June 9 meeting.
❑ The plaque ceremony for the First Baptist Church of Edmonds will be on Sunday June 5
at 9:45 am (in between church services).
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Citizens Economic Development Commission (CEDC)
The Economic Development Commission's May 18 meeting included:
❑ Strategic Action Plan Orientation
❑ Economic Development Goals & Policies
❑ Discuss/create Ad Hoc Committee to work on EDC priorities and presentation
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
❑ May 7—July 3: Edmonds Historical Museum exhibit will be "Salish Bounty' —Traditional
Native American Foods of the Puget Sound
❑ May 21: Garden Market at 5t" & Bell St 9 am — 2 pm
❑ May 30: Memorial Day Program at Edmonds Memorial Cemetery at 820 15t" St SW
beginning at 11 am. Bring your lawn chair. Refreshments will be served. This event
is free.
❑ June 2: Mayor's Town Hall from 6:30 — 8:30 pm at the Meadowdale Clubhouse at 6801
N. Meadowdale Rd.
❑ June 3 -5: Edmonds Waterfront Festival at Port of Edmonds from 3 pm —10 pm
❑ June 17 —19: Edmonds Art Festival from 10 am — 8 pm
❑ June 19: Summer Market from 9 am — 3 pm
❑ July 4: Edmonds Kind of 4tn
❑ July 4: Beat Brackett 5K
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Planning Board Agenda Item
Meeting Date: 05/25/2016
Public Hearing on Potential Amendments to the Edmonds Sign Code. A focus of the hearing is to gather
input on three options dealing with temporary (e.g. A -frame) signs in the Downtown area, including (1)
banning temporary portable signs such as A -frames, (2) allowing them as temporary signs for 60 days
only (same as current code), or (3) allowing them as a form of permanent signage with restrictions on
time, place and manner. In addition to the amendments regarding temporary portable signs, the draft
amendments address a number of other minor clarifications and code language updates/issues.
Staff Lead: Rob Chave
Department: Planning Division
Prepared By: Rob Chave
Background/History
The Planning Board has had several discussions on options for temporary portable signs downtown,
including their meetings of April 27 and May 11, 2016.
Staff Recommendation
The Planning Board will hold the public hearing. Deliberations and developing a recommendation to the
City Council may occur after the hearing, or at a subsequent meeting.
Narrative
The City Council requested the Planning Board to provide recommendations concerning temporary
portable signs in the downtown area. Staff is also working on updates to the City's development code on
various subjects, and some minor updates to the sign code are incorporated into the drafts being
considered here.
Various types of signs are used as temporary portable signs downtown, including A -frames, stanchions,
easels, etc. In the updated code the proposal is simply to call all of these signs "pedestrian signs" for
simplicity's sake.
For pedestrian signs in the downtown area (e.g. A -frame, stanchion, or other freestanding portable
signs), the existing code considers these to be 'temporary signs' and only allows them for a total of 60
days in a calendar year. Option 2 would continue this practice, and add a requirement for a low-cost
permit so that the 60 days can be tracked. According to existing code, these types of signs can't be
placed off of the property (e.g. down the street at a street corner); this would not change.
Option 1 would no longer permit these types of "pedestrian signs" downtown at all.
Option 3 would permit "pedestrian signs" as permanent signage (so that the 60-day limit no longer
applies), but also include specific conditions on duration (only during business hours), placement (close
to the building or curb, and only in front of the store), and how many (only one per store front).
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A summary matrix of the three options for "pedestrian signs" is included as the first attachment to this
agenda item.
As indicated, the Planning Board is seeking input on the various options being considered. Is one
approach the best? Are there different aspects of more than one of the options that should be
combined? Are there other ideas that should be considered or added?
Note that the Board is particularly interested in what people see as the benefits or problems of each
approach. For example, what are the benefits or problems of portable signs relative to the downtown
businesses and the community at large?
Attachments:
Options Matrix for Pedestrian Signs
Sign Code Option 1: No temporary portable signs downtown
Sign Code Option 2: Portable signs (A -frames) as temporary signs (60 days, per existing code)
Sign Code Option 3: Portable signs (e.g. A -frames) as permanent signage subject to restrictions
Sign Code Comment Letters
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6.A.a
Matrix of Downtown "Pedestrian Sign" Options
Various types of signs are used as temporary portable signs downtown, including A -frames,
stanchions, easels, etc. In the updated code the proposal is simply to call all of these signs
"pedestrian signs" for simplicity's sake.
The three options for how to deal with "pedestrian signs" downtown are summarized in the
following table:
•.
•.
Option 3:
Portables
Pedestrian Signs as
Pedestrian Signs as
Usm
TemporaryNo
Permanent Signs with
restrictions
Pedestrian Sign
No
Yes
Yes
Permitted?
Size Allowed
No
6 sq. ft.
6 sq. ft.
Location Allowed
No
w/in 2 ft of building
w/in 2 ft of building
or street edge; 4 ft
or street edge; 4 ft
clear zone
clear zone
How Many
No
Duration
No
60 days per year
When business is
open
Benefits of
?
?
?
approach?
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Edmonds
Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
Chapter 20.60
SIGN CODE — Option 1: No Pedestrian/Sandwich Board Signs
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.
20.60.060
Campaign signs.
20.60.065
Real estate signs.
20.60.080
Temporary signs.
20.60.070
Construction 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. 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 Plexiglas/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."
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Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
"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.
"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 for public facilities, 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" is a permanent roofed structure attached and supported by the building.
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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 aexposed 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 (6) 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;
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2. Pedestrian signs, including signs such as A -frame (sandwich board), stantion, easel, or post -style signs
intended as free-standing signs in pedestrian environmentsMeMH and ndiyieh" heard gRS'
4. Wooden, metal, or plastic "stake" or "yard" signs;
S. Posters or banners affixed to windows, railings, overhangs, trees, hedges, or other structures or vegetation,
except for pole -mounted community event banners;
6. 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;
7. Searchlights;
8. Inflatables.
"Premises" is the actual physical area of the lot upon which a sign is posted or displayed, except within the
boundaries of the BC or BD zone an the downtown activity center as defined in the comprehensive plan, where
"Premises" shall include any portion ef the public sidewalk which fronts upon the let.
"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.
Left: Acceptable changeable message sign;
Right: A reader board.
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"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 maximum aetual area of a sign that *S vi-sible from any single peint ef ebservation frem any public
vantage point. SUPPeFtiRg StFU6WFes whieh are PaFt Of a SigR display shall be iReluded a n the Pale ilatien of the sign
aFea.area of a sign on which copy is to be placed, as set forth in ECDC 20.60.020(A).
"Temporary sign" is an allewed PeF 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, is 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. 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.
3514 § 2, 2004; Ord. 3461 § 2, 20031.
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, the criteriaset forth ;^ ECDC 20.10.070, 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
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Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
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 below in
subsection (13)(1) and any sign permit referred by the planning manager pursuant to subsection (A)(1) of this
section.
requirements ef this chapte.r. The der.isien ef the arehiteetwFal deSigR beard eR any SigR permit applicatien FRay be
design beard decisions
1. The ADB shall review any Assign permit application that requests a modification to any of the standards
prescribed by this chapter. The ADB shall only approve modification requests that meet all of the felle in
craterea 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:
ca. 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;
db. In no event shall the modification result in signage which exceeds the maximum normally allowed by
more than SO 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
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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.
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. 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.
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STORE,fi
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Left: Sign Area = X * Y Right: Applied individual letters are calculated separately
Monument sign: the base is not included in the calculation of sign area (dashed rectangle)
A. 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., or above the eave er drip line ^f a pitched roof on which it
Inc—RtP' Other than a mansard roof on a one-story building, A -a sign may not be attached above the eave or drip
line on a pitched roof.
B. 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.
C. Ne signs shall Signs that extend into or over a public right-of-way unlessss an eRGFeaehment . ....;+ h.,' h^^.,
appreved4Lhall comply with see Chapter 18.70 ECDCJ.
D. 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.
E. 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.
F. No light source which exceeds 20 watts shall be directly exposed to any public street or adjacent property.
G. No illumination source of fluorescent light shall exceed 425 milliamps or be spaced closer than eight inches on
center.
H. 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.
I. No window signs above the first floor shall be illuminated.
J. Sign height shall be determined as follows:
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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 nddiss it"^dsee the finished grade at the base of the supports.
K. Portable signs may not be used as permanent signage; only fixed signs are permitted.
L. 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
c....,J.ViCh o,.. KIS
Pedestrian
RN
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.
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 ECDC 20.60.020(M).
M. 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.
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.
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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 compliment 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. 3631 § 2, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.025 Total maximum permanent sign area.
A. Business and Commercial Zone Districts (BN, ABC, 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
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 (5) signs. Projecting (including blade) signs of four square feet or less and
Windowwindowsigns 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.
B. Residential Zone Districts (IRS, RM).
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.
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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 (B)(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. 3805 § 1, 2010; Ord. 3628 § 9, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 20031.
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, CG,
14 feet or the height of the face of the
WMU, FVMU
building on which the sign is located,
consistent with ECDC 20.60.020(A)
[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. 3628 § 11, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 20031.
20.60.040 Projecting signs — Maximum area and height restrictions.
A. The maximum area of any projecting sign shall be as follows:
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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, CGS
WMU, FVMU
�4 fee4Heisht of the wall to which the
sign is attached
C. The bettem of the SigR aFea ef ffejeEting signS shall be at least eight feet in height and at least 1-1— feet in height
if at projects eve.r a vehirle traveled right ^' The sign area of a marquee sign may not exceed two feet in
vertical dimension. [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.
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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, CWL
WMU, FVMU
14 feet
CG
25 feet
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 (5) 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. 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. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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. 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.
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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.
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. 3461 § 2, 20031.
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. 3514 § 3, 20041.
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:
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1. Residential Zones (RS, RM).
a. Only portable, freestanding or attached signs may be used as temporary signage.
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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, ABC, BD, WMU, FVMU, CW, CG).
a. Only pokab'^ fFeestandin^ ^ attached signs may be used for temporary signage; provided, that
'Isandwieh board" OF "A" fFame portable SigRs shall eRly be permitted in the BC, BD and ON zenes.
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.
c. A permit is required for all temporary signage.
cd. 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,
6 square feet (fre st nd ng)
CW, WMU,
20 square feet (attached)
FVMU
CG
6 square feet (freestanding)
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
3 feet (freestanding)
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.
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B. Off -Premises Temporary Signage. Off -premises temporary signs areal lowed 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 (13)(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.
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.
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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. 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.
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. 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:
A. Governmental signs.
B. Signs required by provision of local, state, or federal law.
C. Official public notices required by provision of local, state, or federal law.
D. Signs not visible from a public location.
E. Seasonal and holiday displays not incorporating the use of written copy or graphics to convey a message.
F. Gravestones. [Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.100 Administration.
A. General. The community development director is responsible for administering and enforcing the provisions of
this chapter. He or she shall adopt application requirements for sign permits. Fees shall be as stated in Chapter
15.00 ECDC.
B. Installation Permits. Many signs require installation permits under Chapter 19.45 ECDC and may require plan
checking fees as well.
C. Notice of Violation. Whenever the planning director becomes aware of a violation of the provisions of this
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
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 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. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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SIGN CODE — Option 2: Pedestrian/Sandwich Boards as 'Temporary' Signs
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.
20.60.060
Campaign signs.
20.60.065
Real estate signs.
20.60.080
Temporary signs.
20.60.070
Construction signs.
20.60.090
Prohibited signs.
20.60.095
Exempt signs.
20.60.100
Administration.
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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. 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 Plexiglas/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."
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"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.
"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 for public facilities, 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" is a permanent roofed structure attached and supported by the building.
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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 aexposed 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 (6) 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;
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2. Pedestrian signs, including signs such as A -frame (sandwich board), stantion, easel, or post -style signs
intended as free-standing signs in pedestrian environmentsMeMH and ands ieh" heard ^^S;
3. "A" and „T„ fFaFne signs;
4. Wooden, metal, or plastic "stake" or "yard" signs;
S. Posters or banners affixed to windows, railings, overhangs, trees, hedges, or other structures or vegetation,
except for pole -mounted community event banners;
6. 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;
7. Searchlights;
8. Inflatables.
"Premises" is the actual physical area of the lot upon which a sign is posted or displayed, except within the
boundaries of the BC or BD zone in the downtown ^ctivit • ^^ Downtown Waterfront Activity Center as defined
in the comprehensive plan, where "premises" shall include arvf-that portion of the public sidewalk which fronts
upon the letbusiness storefront.
"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.
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Left: Acceptable changeable message sign;
Right: A reader board.
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"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 maximurn actual area of a sign that is visible frorn any single point of observation frorn any public
vantage point. Supporting structures which are part of a sign display shall be included On the calculation of the sign
area area of a sign on which copy is to be placed, as set forth in ECDC 20.60.020(A).
"Temporary sign" is an allowed pertablea 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, is 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. 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.
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Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
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.
3514 § 2, 2004; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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, the criteria set forth in ECDC 20.10.070, 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.Feviewable as a Type II appeal (See ECDC 20 n1 005)
established In Chapter 20.105 ECDC fOF appeal of sta4 deeffisiens and signs reviewed under subsection (A)(!) of this
seectien are appealable as provided theFeimn-.
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 below in
subsection (B)(1) and any sign permit referred by the planning manager pursuant to subsection (A)(1) of this
section. The arehiter-A-W.Fal design board shall approve, eenditionally appFeve or deny such sign peFFnit applieatia
Fecluirernents of this chapteF. The decision of the architectural design board on any sign permit application may be
appealed te the city eeuneil PUFSHant te the preeedUFe established in ECDC 20.10.080 feF appeal ef ff&iteetuFal
design board decisiens.
1. The ADB shall review any Aey-sign permit application that requests a modification to any of the standards
prescribed by this chapter. The ADB shall only approve modification requests that meet all of the following
Uiter+a 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:
ea. 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;
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db. 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.
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. 3800 § 1, 2010; Ord. 3736 § 60,
2009; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
20.60.020 General regulations for permanent signs.
A. Sian 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 anv 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.
STORE ?
NAME 1
140S
Left: Sign Area = X * Y Right: Applied individual letters are calculated separately
Monument sign: the base is not included in the calculation of sign area (dashed rectangle)
A. 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., eF above the eave eF dFiP line of a patched Fof ^^ ..,b;,.b of
gated. Other than a mansard roof on a one-story building, Xa sign may not be attached above the eave or drip
line on a pitched roof.
B. 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.
C. Pie signs sha"Signs that extend into or over a public right-of-way unless an encrea^"m^^* permit has been
approved eeshall comply with Chapter 18.70 ECDC4.
D. 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.
E. 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
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allowed. Messages that change at intervals less than 20 seconds will be considered blinking or flashing and not
allowed.
F. No light source which exceeds 20 watts shall be directly exposed to any public street or adjacent property.
G. No illumination source of fluorescent light shall exceed 425 milliamps or be spaced closer than eight inches on
center.
H. 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.
I. No window signs above the first floor shall be illuminated.
J. 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 undisturbed se4the finished grade at the base of the supports.
K. Portable signs may not be used as permanent signage; only fixed signs are permitted.
L. 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
5;A1q(a,.0i,h PARF,JS
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.
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.
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Note: In the above table, P = Permitted; N = Not permitted; C = Conditionally permitted through design review if consistent with the standards
itemized in ECDC 20.60.020(M).
M. 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.
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 compliment 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. 3631 § 2, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.025 Total maximum permanent sign area.
A. Business and Commercial Zone Districts (BN, ABC, 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 Windew
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
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is allowed a maximum of five (5) signs. Pro[ecting (including blade) signs of four square feet or less and
Wandew-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.
B. Residential Zone Districts (RS, RM).
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. 3805 § 1, 2010; Ord. 3628 § 9, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 20031.
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, CG,
14 feet or the height of the face of the
WMU, FVMU
building on which the sign is located,
consistent with ECDC 20.60.020(A)
[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
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Zone
Maximum Area of Sign
IRS, RM
4 square feet
BN, BP BC, BD, CW, CG,
WMU,FVMU
1 square foot per each lineal foot of
window frontage
[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:
Zone
Maximum Area of Sign
IRS, 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
IRS, RM
Not permitted
BN, BP BC, BD, CW, CGS
WMU, FVMU
�-0 #eetHeight of the wall to which the
sign is attached
C. The bettem ef the sign area of projecting signs shall be at least eight feet In height and at least 11 feet In height
;f it PFOjects eve.r a vehiele tFaveled right of The sign area of a marquee sign may not exceed two feet in
vertical dimension. [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
IRS, 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
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Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
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
R5, RM
6 feet
BN, BP BC, BD, CWL
WMU, FVMU
14 feet
CG
25 feet
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 (5) 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. 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. 3461 § 2, 20031.
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. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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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.
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. 3461 § 2, 20031.
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. 3514 § 3, 2004].
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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, ABC, BD, WMU, FVMU, CW, CG).
a. Only portable, freestanding or attached signs may be used for temporary signage; provided, that
"sandwich board" or " frarne pertaWep_edestrian signs shall only be permitted in the BC, BD and CW
zones within the Downtown Waterfront Activity Center defined in the Comprehensive Plan.
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.
c. A permit is required for all temporary signage.
ed. Maximum number of temporary signs is one freestanding sign per property street frontage, and one
attached sign per building_
e. Pedestrian signs, if allowed, require a permit from the City. The permit application shall identify the
duration and location for the sign. and shall meet the following standards.
1) If located on or near a sidewalk, building entry or pedestrian way, the sign shall be located to
provide a minimum of four feet of clearance for pedestrians to pass;
2) Portable temporary signs cannot be left outside during hours that the business is closed to the
public;
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
6 square feet (freestanding)
20 square feet (attached)
CG
6 square feet (freestanding)
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Zone Maximum Area of Temporary Sign
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
3 feet (freestanding)
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 (13)(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.
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.
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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. 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.
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. 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:
A. Governmental signs.
B. Signs required by provision of local, state, or federal law.
C. Official public notices required by provision of local, state, or federal law.
D. Signs not visible from a public location.
E. Seasonal and holiday displays not incorporating the use of written copy or graphics to convey a message.
F. Gravestones. [Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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20.60.100 Administration.
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A. General. The community development director is responsible for administering and enforcing the provisions of
this chapter. He or she shall adopt application requirements for sign permits. Fees shall be as stated in Chapter
15.00 ECDC.
B. Installation Permits. Many signs require installation permits under Chapter 19.45 ECDC and may require plan
checking fees as well.
C. Notice of Violation. Whenever the planning director becomes aware of a violation of the provisions of this
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
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 of appropriate legal action.
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. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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Chapter 20.60
SIGN CODE — Option 3: Pedestrian/Sandwich Boards as a form of Permanent Signage
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.
20.60.060
Campaign signs.
20.60.065
Real estate signs.
20.60.080
Temporary signs.
20.60.070
Construction signs.
20.60.090
Prohibited signs.
20.60.095
Exempt signs.
20.60.100
Administration.
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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. 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 Plexiglas/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."
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"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.
"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 for public facilities, 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.
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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 aexposed 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 (6) 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;
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2. Pedestrian signs, including signs such as A -frame (sandwich board), stanchion, easel, or post -style signs
8. "A" and „T„ fFaFne signs;
4. Wooden, metal, or plastic "stake" or "yard" signs;
S. Posters or banners affixed to windows, railings, overhangs, trees, hedges, or other structures or vegetation,
except for pole -mounted community event banners;
6. 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;
7. Searchlights;
8. Inflatables.
"Premises" is the actual physical area of the lot upon which a sign is posted or displayed, except within the
boundaries ef the BC or BD zone in the dewRtewn aetivity eenteF aS defined in the WMPFehensive plan, wheFe
11 pFemises" shall Include any portion of the publie sidewalk which fronts upon the 'at.
"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.
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Left: Acceptable changeable message sign;
Right: A reader board.
r€cKgan
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"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 maximum aetual aFea ef a sign that as visible frem any single peint ef ebseFVatien fFeFn any public
VaRtage PeiRt. SUPPeFtiAg StFUeWFes whieh aFe PaFt ef a sign display shall be ineluded an the ealeulatien ef the sign
eFea.area of a sign on which copy is to be placed, as set forth in ECDC 20.60.020(A).
"Temporary sign" is an allewed peF 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, is 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. 3800 § 1, 2010; Ord. 3631 § 1, 2007; Ord.
3628 § 8, 2007; Ord. 3561 § 1, 2005; Ord. 3514 § 1, 2004; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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.
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Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
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.
3514 § 2, 2004; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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, the criteria set forth in ECDC 20.10.070, 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. rPv'P ;;h'^ as Type " appeal (See ECDC 20 n1 005)
established In ChapteF 20405 EGDCf9F appeal ef sta4decisiens and signs reviewed und-er S-Uh-Ser-Affien (A)(!) ef this
seEtien are appealable as provided thereimn-.
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 below in
subsection (B)(1) and any sign permit referred by the planning manager pursuant to subsection (A)(1) of this
section.
requirements of this chapte.r. The deei-sien A-f the arehiteetwFal design beaFd en any sign peFmit applicatien FRay be
appealed te the city eeuncil PUFSUant to the procedwe established in ECDC 20.10.080 f8F appeal of aFEhiteetwal
1. The ADB shall review any Assign permit application that requests a modification to any of the standards
prescribed by this chapter. The ADB shall only approve modification requests th,* m^^* ," of the fellewin
crater+a that arise from one of the followinE 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:
ea. 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;
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db. 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.
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. 3800 § 1, 2010; Ord. 3736 § 60,
2009; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE
20.60.020 General regulations for permanent signs.
A. Sien Area. The area of a sign shall be calculated as follows:
1. The area of a sien is maximum actual area of a sien that is visible from anv 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.
STORE ?
NAME 1
140S
Left: Sign Area = X * Y Right: Applied individual letters are calculated separately
Monument sign: the base is not included in the calculation of sign area (dashed rectangle)
A. 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., eF above the eave eF dFiP line of a patched Fof ^^ .. hiCh ;t
gated. Other than a mansard roof on a one-story building, Xa sign may not be attached above the eave or drip
line on a pitched roof.
B. 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.
C. No signs shall Signs that extend into or over a public right-of-way unless an encroachment permit has been
apprised {3eeshall comply with -Chapter 18.70 ECDC).
D. 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.
E. 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
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allowed. Messages that change at intervals less than 20 seconds will be considered blinking or flashing and not
allowed.
F. No light source which exceeds 20 watts shall be directly exposed to any public street or adjacent property.
G. No illumination source of fluorescent light shall exceed 425 milliamps or be spaced closer than eight inches on
center.
H. 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.
I. No window signs above the first floor shall be illuminated.
J. 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 undisturbed se4the finished grade at the base of the supports.
K. Portable signs may not be used as permanent signage; only fixed signs are permitted.
L. 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
5;A1q(a,.0i,h PARF,JS
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.
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.
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Note: In the above table, P = Permitted; N = Not permitted; C = Conditionally permitted through design review if consistent with the standards
itemized in ECDC 20.60.020(M).
M. 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.
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 compliment 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. 3631 § 2, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.025 Total maximum permanent sign area.
A. Business and Commercial Zone Districts (BN, ABC, 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
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
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is allowed a maximum of five (5) signs. Pro[ecting (including blade) signs of four square feet or less and
Wandew-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.
B. Residential Zone Districts (RS, RM).
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. 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, CGL
14 feet or the height of the face of the
WMU, FVMU
building on which the sign is located,
consistent with ECDC 20.60.020(A)
[Ord. 3628 § 10, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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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, BPBC, BD, CW, CG,
WMU,FVMU
1 square foot per each lineal foot of
window frontage
[Ord. 3628 § 11, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 20031.
20.60.040 Projecting signs - Maximum area and height restrictions.
A. The maximum area of any projecting sign shall be as follows:
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, BPBC, BD, CW, CGS
WMU, FVMU
34 fecEHeight of the wall to which the
sign is attached
C. The bettem of the sign area of projecting signs shall be at least eight feet in height and at least 1-1- feet in height
if at projects ever a vehicle traveled right of- a-y The sign area of a marquee sign may not exceed two feet in
vertical dimension. [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 313
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
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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
R5, RM
6 feet
BN, BP BC, BD, CW,
WMU, FVMU
14 feet
CG
25 feet
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 (5) 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. 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. 3461 § 2, 20031.
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.
1. 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.
a. Only one pedestrian sign is permitted per ground floor storefront;
b. Businesses may make arrangements to rotate their pedestrian signs provided they meet the
one sign -per -storefront standard:
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c. The sign shall be located within 10 feet of the building entry, unless it is placed in a location
that better preserves public pedestrian and vehicular access:
d. 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;
e. If located on or near a sidewalk, building entry or pedestrian way, the sign shall be located
to provide a minimum of four feet of clearance for pedestrians to pass. The preferred
locations are within two feet of the building face or within two feet of the curb if that
location does not block access to parked vehicles;
f. Pedestrian signs cannot be left outside during hours that the business is closed to the public.
g. Signs located in the right-of-way require a street use permit from the City;
h. Pedestrian signs are limited to six (6) square feet in area and 3-1/2 feet in height for A -frame
or sandwich board signs, or six (6) square feet in area and 4-1/2 feet in height for stanchion,
easel or other types of pedestrian signs.
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. 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.
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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.
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. 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. 3514 § 3, 2004].
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, ABC, BD, WMU, FVMU, CW, CG).
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a. Only PeFtab'^ freestanding eF 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.
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 permit is required,
specifying the duration and location of display.
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, BPBC, 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,
6 , e feet (fFe standing)
CW, WMU,
20 square feet (attached)
FVMU
CG
6 squaFe feet (fFe st.....1ing)
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
3 feet (fFe ., tanding4
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 (13)(5) through (9) of this section.
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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.
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. 3628 § 14, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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20.60.090 Prohibited signs.
A. General. All signs not expressly permitted by this chapter are prohibited.
Page 18/18
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.
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. 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:
A. Governmental signs.
B. Signs required by provision of local, state, or federal law.
C. Official public notices required by provision of local, state, or federal law.
D. Signs not visible from a public location.
E. Seasonal and holiday displays not incorporating the use of written copy or graphics to convey a message.
F. Gravestones. [Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003].
20.60.100 Administration.
A. General. The community development director is responsible for administering and enforcing the provisions of
this chapter. He or she shall adopt application requirements for sign permits. Fees shall be as stated in Chapter
15.00 ECDC.
B. Installation Permits. Many signs require installation permits under Chapter 19.45 ECDC and may require plan
checking fees as well.
C. Notice of Violation. Whenever the planning director becomes aware of a violation of the provisions of this
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
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 of appropriate legal action.
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. 3461 § 2, 2003].
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Laura Zeck <laura@zincartinteriors.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 11, 2016 9:43 AM
To: Cunningham, Diane; Hope, Shane; Nelson, Michael
Subject: Re: Public Hearing on Signs Wed. May 25
Hi - I am a business owner and would love to attend this meeting, however I have a conflict as my 5th grader is
performing in her school orchestra that night at the same time.
Please feel free to pass the information below on at the hearing.
As the owner of Zinc Art + Interiors at the corner of 3rd and Main in Edmonds, WA. I would like to state that
use of A -Boards has been essential to my business, it's visibility and it's viability.
As many of you know the circle/fountain is the hub of Edmonds. This is reinforced by the location of the
Saturday Market, Chamber Events, and traffic patterns.
ZINC has now been open for 28 months and it is still a daily struggle to get the general population and visitors
to understand that Edmonds does exist beyond the circle, and A -Boards have played a huge role. I can actually
look at days where we have neglected to put out our A -Board and see a dramatic difference in that days sales.
At the time that we leased our space, sign code would not allow for a sign that actually made sense for the
length of our street front. We are now stuck with a sign that is incredibly small above our front door. It is low to
the ground and at times completely disappears behind vehicles parked in front of the building. I have asked the
parking division to either make the space in front of the building a 15 minute zone or to clearly mark the space
as the 3 hour parking that space that they say it is because on many days the space is occupied by one car for the
entire duration of our business hours 10-7pm. I have mentioned this to many police as they pick up their
uniforms next door at Corry's Dry Cleaning, but their response is that the space is not marked clearly and
therefore they can not ticket the vehicle parked there all day. Many days these vehicles are very large and tall
and completely block our building. Without the use of an A -Board on the corner of 3rd and Main, many people
would not even see we exist.
As a tax paying business of Edmonds, I feel it is essential that you take these frustrations and issues with the
sign code into account. One citizen with complaints does not make up for the amount of revenue that our
business brings to the city, let alone the culture, community and service we provide on a daily basis.
In addition I have attached the current street view of our building that is available on Google. As you can see
our business doesn't "exist", and the pole in front of our building has no sign indicating parking
regulations. ZINC needs all the help it can get as a new business struggling to become part of the community
Please help us by improving the sign code and making it friendlier for businesses within the business district
where signage is and should be visible and helpful.
Thanks so much for your time!
Please contact me if you have any questions at all.
Best!
Laura
On May 11, 2016, at 8:37 AM, Cunningham, Diane<Diane.Cunningham@edmondswa.gov>
wrote:
Packet Pg. 70
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Hope, Shane
Sent: Monday, May 09, 2016 8:05 AM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Cc: Chave, Rob
Subject: FW: Edmonds sign code
FYR
From: Monillas, Adrienne
Sent: Sunday, May 08, 2016 10:37 PM
To: Hope, Shane
Subject: Fwd: Edmonds sign code
FYI
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas
Sent from my iPad
Begin forwarded message:
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Date: May 5, 2016 at 9:13:47 PM PDT
To: <council&dmonds_wa.gov>
Cc: <diane.cunnin hama dmondswa.com>
Subject: Edmonds sign code
Council Members:
What public purpose is served by allowing a 4-foot high advertising structure i.e. a mini -
billboard, in front of every business in the Bowl? Or, anywhere in Edmonds since the Westgate
Plan suggests city-wide walkability is now a city goal?
Instead of posting daily message changes ON that billboard structure, why not provide a
decorative box near the business entrance and place daily new advertising IN it? The Downtown
Business Alliance could design it, have it produced and sell it to those who want a location for
periodic advertising material. The Box might be introduced with a campaign to Visit Edmonds
and Check the Box.
Adding the Box would allow business three (3) permanent means of reaching the public: A wall
sign, a blade sign and the Box, plus one short-term temporary sign could be added for a business
opening event and/or a special event organized by the Downtown Business Alliance. Many
businesses already use a permanent, red, small, non -flashing "OPEN" sign. Isn"t that enough
signage?
I noted in the April 26, 2016 minutes that an instant poll at a public workshop re Hwy. 99 asked
residents what their top priority would be if just one thing could be done for the corridor. Their
answer was "public space improvements and beautification-42%". Edmonds residents, regardless
of their home's location, know they live in a town that has a reputation for attractiveness and
they want their area to share that reputation.
No one has ever argued that big signs on public sidewalks are a public space improvement or
that they contribute to the beautification of Edmonds. Sandwich boards, stanchions and other
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6.A.e
From: Brent Malgarin [mailto:elegantaems@amx.com]
Sent: Friday, May 06, 2016 7:30 AM
To: Hope, Shane
Subject: sign code
Dear Shane,
I have been reading the proposal for changes to the sign code.
I find it rather amazing that the City acts, after one person complains about "A -boards", yet the BID
wants to add significant sign clutter by putting ED! badges all over town.
If a person does not know they are shopping in Downtown Edmonds, then they should not be out
walking around.
Alley signage--- what a joke. Seattle has it because there are businesses located in those locations with
no other point of entry or egress. Pathetic.
I am filing a complaint about pole and Ed! sign pollution in Edmonds.
I have spent 17 years selling in resort towns, and this City does not have the slightest idea what it is
doing.
Although-- the corrupt BID Directors figured out how to personally benefit from their positions.... Only
goes to show the integrity of the people--- who want other peoples money.
Brent Malgarin.
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Hope, Shane
Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2016 9:46 AM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Cc: Chave, Rob
Subject: FW: sign code update
Attachments: color_logo_pantone_REV2.pdf
From: Pam Stuller[mailto:parm_@walnutstreetcoffee.com]
Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2015 1:12 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Cc: Hope, Shane
Subject: sign code update
Hi Diane,
As requested, here is my feedback for consideration during your sign code update process.
My building is uniquely squat and sits slightly into the public right of way.
When going through the permitting process to create my sign, current code would not allow my sign to be
above my roof line - regardless of the height of my building.
With the required minimum height from the sidewalk for pedestrians and the maximum height allowed by my
roof line, I ended up with about 2' of workable height to create my blade sign. I ended up modifying my logo so
my sign would have enough visual impact from up the street.
I've attached an image of my sign, my building and my logo - so you can see the circle version I would
ultimately like to replace my current sign with.
I am not encouraging allowing enormous signs that are out of scale with their building/neighbors, but if there is
a way to accommodate some variances in the sign code for unique site situations - allowing signs to go a certain
amount above a roof line or exceed the size restrictions in some cases - I'd support it.
Please let me know if you have quesitons or if I can provide any additional info.
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611 -green -big circle
7459 - blue - inner circle
1535 - brown - cup handle, cup, and cup rim
497 - dark brown -STREET and oval area attached to S
7401 - tan -WALNUT and part of S and inner cup
716 - orange - OFFEE
white - foundation base coat
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Cunningham, Diane
From:
Hope, Shane
Sent:
Thursday, April 28, 2016 9:49 AM
To:
Cunningham, Diane
Cc:
Chave, Rob
Subject:
FW: Signage
From: Clayton Moss [mailto:cmoss@formaseattle.com]
Sent: Thursday, February 18, 2016 4:23 PM
To: Hope, Shane
Subject: Signage
Hello,
Well, over the past month I believe we have manage to gather enough feedback from people regarding the
different sign types that we discussed at our last meeting to feel confident that we are moving in the right
direction.
I was just wondering if looking at it from your perspective, is there is any kind of timeline that I should be
aware of? I would like to get some schematics over to you that illustrates our proposed recommendations.
Clayton Moss
Designer
206.920.5912
FORMA
114 4th Ave N.
Edmonds, WA 98020
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From: D Talmadge [justme56@me.com]
Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2016 9:53 AM
To: Council
Subject: Edmonds City Council/ panning Board
Council/ Planning Board Members,
Firstly, please note there is no email address listed on the City website to direct emails to the
planning board.
About the sign code, it is mystifying to me that there is outdoor seating allowed in the
downtown area so that the restaurants can monopolized a portion of the public walkways
particularly when the sidewalks are so narrow to begin with. It is difficult to get around the
tables and chairs if there is more than one person trying to pass by ( with the signs and posts)
but for persons who have mobility issues it is nearly impossible. I have wondered often if it is
ADA compliant, and I can't see how it would be. When it is busy down there, just strolling on
the street is not a pleasant experience at all
Those of us who can walk easily are merely inconvenienced with all the signs and sidewalks
taken up by outdoor seating and abundant signage. But for anyone with any difficult at all, it is
truly daunting and I don't believe it should be. Most of those sidewalks are simply too narrow
to accommodate outdoor seating, sandwich board signs and much foot traffic at all.
In your considerations of sign boards, please take into account those folks who have mobility
issues first and foremost. Those are public sidewalks not the property of the restaurants who
want to expand their space and businesses who put signs in the middle of them. And the signs
all over further clutter what should be a public sidewalk for all to use.
Thank you.
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Cunningham, Diane
From: D Talmadge <justme56@me.com>
Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2016 10:15 AM
To: Planning
Subject: Signs, sidewalks and ADA
Planning Board members,
About the sign code, it is mystifying to me that there is outdoor seating allowed in the downtown area so that
the restaurants can monopolized a portion of the public walkways particularly when the sidewalks are so
narrow to begin with, particularly with the sandwich boards strewn about. It is difficult to get around the
tables and chairs if there is more than one person trying to pass by ( with the signs and posts) but for persons
who have mobility issues it is nearly impossible. I have wondered often if it is ADA compliant, and I can't see
how it would be. When it is busy down there, just strolling on the street is not a pleasant experience at all
Those of us who can walk easily are merely inconvenienced with all the signs and sidewalks taken up by
outdoor seating and abundant signage. But for anyone with any difficult at all, it is truly daunting and I don't
believe it should be. Most of those sidewalks are simply too narrow to accommodate outdoor seating,
sandwich board signs and much foot traffic at all.
In your considerations of sign boards, please take into account those folks who have mobility issues first and
foremost. Those are public sidewalks not the property of the restaurants who want to expand their space and
businesses who put signs in the middle of them. And the signs all over further clutter what should be a public
sidewalk for all to use.
Thank you.
Diane Talmadge
Sent from Cloud 9
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Below Councilmember Buckshnis's message is one from Diane Talmadge.
-----Original Message -----
From: Buckshnis, Diane
Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2016 10:07 AM
To: D Talmadge
Cc: Hope, Shane
Subject: RE: Edmonds City Council/ panning Board
Good Morning Diane,
Here is the planning boards' email and you can watch what various Council Members said in the
Council Meeting last week and Ms. Fraley Monillas also brought up the ADA issue as well as the
street dining. The outdoor dining was a HUGE council discussion issue four or five years back
and I can't recall it all but it was only for the spring/summer months, I think. You can email
Shane Hope and ask. Personally, I think we should try a 30 day temp ban and see if business
are affected. It would be similar to going on a specific diet - you don't know if you like it or not
because you have never tried it! Why not try it to see if business really need those signs. I
noticed that I mentioned Zinc and that I see the bright orange and who needs that a -frame and
they didn't have it out yesterday (which I am sure they don't watch City Council) with the
orange balloons. But, it looked so nice on that corner. Snap Fitness is another sign always
out .... you either work out or you don't and folks either get it or they don't - so why clutter? So,
much for my ranting.
planning@edmondswa.gov is the address that will get to everyone.
Have a great day,
Diane
Diane Buckshnis
City Council Position #4
206-228-3462
From: D Talmadge [justme56@me.com]
Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2016 9:53 AM
To: Council
Subject: Edmonds City Council/ panning Board
Council/ Planning Board Members,
Firstly, please note there is no email address listed on the City website to direct emails to the
planning board.
About the sign code, it is mystifying to me that there is outdoor seating allowed in the
downtown area so that the restaurants can monopolized a portion of the public walkways
Packet Pg. 78
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Date: April 27, 2016
From: Ashley Systsma (for Rick Steves who is currently out of the Country)
Ashley@ricksteves.com
Even though my company puts one out, I'm opposed to sandwich boards in Edmonds. I'd be happy to
see our town rid of these completely, including my own.
-Rick Steves
Packet Pg. 79
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent: Tuesday, April 26, 2016 3:52 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Cc: Council
Subject: Edmonds sign code
Planning Board Members:
As I listen to the Planning Board and read its minutes, I get the strong impression that the Planning Board
accepts temporary commercial on Edmonds streets as needed, desirable and even inevitable. The only
questions Board members discuss is how many and where.
I think its unfortunate that a small, but well -organized downtown group, feels it must soil its own nest to
make a living but I don't believe that others should have to pay to solve their problem.
Those others are the 40,000 people who share that nest. They are called residents and THEIR home is a
flourishing, attractive residential community. Those residents have spent thousands of dollars in over 50 years
to make residential and commercial Edmonds look the way it does today. Their efforts deserve more
consideration than they are now receiving from the Planning Board.
Temporary commercial signs are a blight. About four years ago a consultant, Roger Brooks, was retained to
explore ways make edmonds more inviting. He had a long list; the theme of one of the items was "First
Impressions Are Lasting". Applying that old adage, he suggested that the entering "Edmonds" sign NOT be
placed at Westgate but further along where SR104 enters the Bowl.lt's easy to see why.
Entering Westgate one is met with a flashing car -wash sign on the right and, on the left, a collection of drab,
low commercial buildings with a row of sandwich board signs, strung along SR 104, identifying each business.
(The car wash sign no longer flashes but the board signs are still there). It is the perfect poor first impression.
Edmonds residents don't deserve more blight and more poor impressions on Main and on Fifth streets.
Temporary commercial signs are a stigma. They send a far more significant message than the actual words
on the sign. They convey a state of mind, they cry economic distress, even panic; they cry cheap.None of these
attitudes reflect the reality of a prosperous, attractive RESIDENTIAL community.
Locating temporary commercial signs (sandwich boa rds,stanchions, banners etc) in the public right-of-way
creates the picture of a fine home with a seedy front yard. Does the Planning Board believe that is the image
residents want their sign code to produce?
Natalie Shippen
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent: Tuesday, April 12, 2016 7:47 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Cc: Council
Subject: Edmonds sign code
Planning Board Members:
I read the minutes of your last meeting with interest.Mr. Clugston says, "the proliferation of A -frame signs in
the downtown is a problem." and, later, temporary signage in the downtown has been identified as an issue
and the GOAL of the current effort is to fix the problems.."
It's not the message on the temporary A -frame signs that is the PROBLEM. It's the number of those signs
on the street. Changing the message doesn't solve the PROLIFERATION problem.
It's not the style of the A -frames that is the PROBLEM it's the number of those signs on the street.
Substituting another type of temporary sign doesn't solve the PROLIFERATION problem.
Currently, those "temporary" signs are, in fact, permanent because they have been out on the street all day,
all week, all year for several years. The time limit on temporary signs is 60 cumulative days annually. No owner
complies with that time limit and it can't be enforced using a "Request for Code Enforcement Action" because
no City record is kept of when the sign was put on the street.
Requiring a permit for temporary signs is overkill; requiring notification and the expiration date on the sign
itself would partially solve the time limit problem. Changing the word "cumulative" to "consecutive" would
complete the solution to the time limit problem. Other cities do not use the word "cumulative" presumably
because it's too difficult to track.They use the word "consecutive" which produces a specific date that can be
easily checked
Other city codes also use number of days to measure the time limit. Shifting A -frame or sandwich board signs
from the "temporary" category to a "right of way" category (see "note" on back page) and then allowing them
on the street all the time except for non -business hours (at night) isn't a time limit:i it's an absurdity. It doesn't
solve the proliferation problem and it doesn't solve the potential for pedestrian/sign conflict.
Enforcing the existing code time limit might reduce the number of temporary signs on the street at one time,
but whether it would appreciably reduce proliferation hasn't been examined.
Natalie Shippen
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 5:27 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Cc: Council
Subject: sign code revisions
Planning Board Member:
FACTS:
1. "TEMPORARY" signs (Edmonds sign code)
a) definition - "allowed portable signs intended for short-term display,not to exceed 60 calendar days
(cumulative) in any calendar year" ;
Portable sign - "...any sign that is capable of being moved or removed ... 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 (stanchion?), 2. "menu" and SANDWICH BOARD" signs, 3. A and T frame signs, 4.
wood, metal or plastics "stake" or "yard" signs, 5. pos tees ters or
banners affixed to windows, railings, overhangs, trees etc., 6. searchlights, inflatables etc.
b)PROBLEM - No record is kept of when any of the above signs are posted; that allows "temporary" signs to
be, in fact, permanent.
solution - Rewrite Code to limit temporary commercial signs to "60 CONSECUTIVE days, one-time only"
(business opening): business owner must notify Planning Dept. when a temporary sign is placed anywhere so
there is a date from which to calculate the time limit on signs,
2. "PREMISES - 'Premises "is the actual physical area of the lot upon which a sign is posted or displayed, except a
within the boundaries of the BC or BD zone in the downtown activity center as defined in the C.P where Q
It shall include any portion of the sidewalk which fronts upon the lot.
PROBLEM - Changes what would normally be an off -premise sign (>usually not allowed) into an on -premise 0
sign. Results, for example,in Old Milltown each business in that complex is allowed one sign on 5th AND one
sign on Dayton OR one sign at the corner of 5th and Dayton. That's a lot of signs adjacent to a privately- J
funded, attractive, land-scaped plaza. Here Edmonds sign policy is counter -productive to the desire of a
private owner to make Edmond a more attractive town. E
of solution - remove "premiises" from the "definition"section.;other codes don't bother to define it because v
it has a common meaning.
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3. ADMINISTRATION —"The Community Development director is responsible for administering and enforcing a,
the provisions of this chapter. He or she shall adopt application requirements for sign permits.
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COMMENTS: a
I have filed about 20 ""Requests For Enforcement" in the last two+ years in the Bowl, at Westgate and in
between on SR104. In the course of following those requests I found that the Edmonds sign code is special
interest legislation. In neither wording nor enforcement does the Code emphasize the importance of
Packet Pg. 83
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protecting Edmonds reputation as an attractive, up -scale residential community. Rather, it offers a crutch to
those marginal businesses that claim they need cheap advertising signs in the public right-of-way in order to
survive.
The Planning Dept. recommendations regarding "temporary"" signs don't improve the Code; they make it
worse.The temporary sandwich board sign which now litter the Bowl are illegal under two separate chapters
of the Code;they don't have street permits ($115)as required by (18.70), and they exceed the time limit on
"temporary" signs (20.60). The Planning Dept. recommendations would simply make those signs permanently c
legal by requiring a permit but eliminating the time limit. r_
Permanent signs have a valid purpose. They identify and locate a town business. "Temporary signs do not. If .
CO
a walker is close enough to a "temporary" sign to read it, the walker is also close enough to the business to
read its permanent sign. As identification temporary signs are redundant Iitter.They are really just advertising E
signs in the public right-of-way and should be prohibited except for one commercial event, and closely E
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monitored, time -limited public events.
The following are my suggestions for sign code changes:
1. EMPHASIZE that the Edmonds Sign Code exists to protect the quality of the community a la Carmel.
2,Commercial "temporary" signs are prohibited except for a 60 consecutive day, one-time only business -
opening event (some towns allow a limited number of 4-day special events).
3. "Premises" - remove that word from the "definition" section.
4.Permit the use of a temporary sign while a permanent sign is being reviewed by the ADB, and then mounted.
5, Permit permanent directional signs subject to ADB approval.
6. Prohibit pole signs every where; use monument signs instead 7. Have ADB approve permanent signs, and
ask it to review the proposed recommendations re calculation, classification and wall -mounted signs.
8. No one shall put any sign in the public right-of-way without first notifying the Planning Dept.
Natalie Shippen
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent: Friday, February 19, 2016 1:55 PM
To: Council
Cc: Cunningham, Diane
Subject: Revision of Edmonds sign code
Council Members:
Currently, there are no "temporary' signs in Edmonds; they are all "permanent" because sign regulation
isn't enforced except by citizen complaint. However, because the Planning Dept. keeps no record of when
temporary signs are erected, the time limit can't be calculated and enforced upon citizen Request. In Edmonds
the major and most controversial signs, "temporary ones" aren't regulated by time limits or in any other way.
REMEDY: Make it clear in the code that "temporary" means temporary by enacting the following ordinance:
"Time limit for temporary signs —a new business may install a temporary sign on a one-time basis only. No
business shall be allowed to display this type of sign more than once. All temporary signs are to be removed
no later than 60 consecutive days from the date of notification to" the Planning Dept.(The words within
quotation marks are from another municipal code.)REMEDY:Require that a business owner shall notify the
Planning Dept. of the day on which a sign will be placed on a roof, wall, or public right-of-way and the date it
will be removed. Require that the Planning Dept. keep a record of the above information.
REMEDY —Under the ADMINISTRATION section of the sign code, include a statement that the sign code is
enforced only upon citizen request. It's deceptive to let Edmonds residents think that their executive branch
enforces the laws enacted by their legislative branch, an age-old assumption.
In the "definition" section of the Edmonds sign code, there appears a definition of the word "premises"
which is unlike that found in any other municipality. The definition says,"premises is the actual physical area of
the lot upon which a sign is posted or displayed EXCEPT within the boundaries of the BC or BD zone in the
downtown activity area ... where "premises" shall include any portion of the public sidewalk which fronts upon
the lot." What does this exception allow?
There was an Old Milltown business that was located on Dayton St. about one-half block East of Fifth St. It
had a sign at the Fifth/Dayton intersection which I appealed as an off -premise sign. The City's reply was, "The
City's position is that the signs in question (I had appealed sign at Third and Main) are not off -premise, but on -
premise DUE to the DEFINITION of "PREMISES (my emphasis), and that their premises extend to the lot of the
business, not just the business sidewalk frontage."I was told there are other "lots" in downtown Edmonds
where the "premises" definition would apply.
I lost the appeal but I learned that every business on the Old Milltown lot is allowed one sign on 5th and one
sign on Dayton OR one sign at the corner of Fifth and Dayton. Is that number of signs the desired result of a
sign code that seeks to control "visual clutter" in Edmonds, a goal listed four times in the PURPOSE section?
REMEDY: Strike all the words that follow EXCEPT in the code definition of "premises".
Finally, I suggest that all PERMANENT signs be reviewed and approved by the ADB. The ADB is a quality -
control Board, and most of its members are selected for their training in assessing quality; signs and their
location quality-sensative issues
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A few years ago two large permanent signs appeared too high on two facades of Old Milltown. I appealed
them and they were removed. The question is, "How did those signs get by Staff? Did they approve them and
then not check their final location because they were too busy? I think the ADB has more members and more
time to ensure that the conditions of its approval are obeyed.
Natalie Shippen
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent: Wednesday, February 17, 2016 11:30 AM
To: Council
Cc: Cunningham, Diane
Subject: Edmonds sign code revision
Council Members:
As of today, I haven't seen a copy of the sign code changes that will be presented to the Council at its Feb.
23, 2016 work meeting. Based upon a Planning Dept. presentation at an earlier public meeting in December, I
expect that only two code revisions will be proposed: 1. minor changes to "permanent" sign regulations and,
2. significant changes to the regulation of "sandwich board" signs which are usually classed as "temporary"
signs. In this e-mail letter I will describe the current confusion that exists in the regulation of signs; later I will
suggest code remedies.
Sign code regulations appear in two separate ECDC chapters: 1. Chapt. 20.60 administered by the Planning
Dept.; and 2. Chapt. 18.70 Street Use and Encroachment Permits administered by the Engineering Dept.
Chapt.18.70 defines sandwich board sign as "temporary objects" which require a street permit. A permit costs
$115.; the duration of the permit isn't defined.
On 9-2-15 1 appealed three sandwich board signs citing failure to obtain a street permit as the reason for a
Request for Code enforcement action. Phil Williams determined that the three businesses I cited did not have
street permits; however, no enforcement action was taken because Code revision is in progress. Meantime, all
the sandwich board signs that litter the commercial streets of the Bowl (the ONLY location where they're
allowed) are illegal, have been for years, and the City of Edmonds is owed thousands of dollars. (Incidentally,
in the last couple of years I have appealed signs under Chapt. 20.60. When my requests were upheld, the signs
were removed.There was no mention of a code revision in progress.) believe code enforcement is, partly,an
issue that is separate from the language of the code itself, but one that should also be addressed.)
While the language of Chapt. 18.70 is clear,Chapt. 20.60 is confusing. It defines sandwich boards as
"temporary" in one section, and as "permanent" in another. Under the "definitions" section of 20.60, a
"temporary" sign is "an allowed portable sign intended for short-term display, not to exceed 60 calendar in
any calendar year." ( That's a lax time limit; other municipal codes have a fixed number of CONSECUTIVE days
for one-year only.
Further along in the code there is a section (20,60.020) titled "General Regulations for PERMANENT signs." In
that section there is a chart which "summarizes the types of signs permitted in each neighborhood/district
within the City. On that chart sandwich boards are listed as permitted only in Downtownl.
I consider sandwich boards a temporary sign. In mid-2014 I filed a Request for Code Enforcement against
three temporary signs including two sandwich boards. The reply was, "The City advises businesses of the 60-
day limit, but does not monitor the site or count the days a sign is out. The City could not proceed with
enforcement without City verified information and could not progress to a hearing or legal proceeding with
third party information." I asked whether the City required that businesses notify the Planning Dept. of the
date a sign was placed in the public right-of-way or elsewhere. the answer was "No". It is impossible to
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calculate the 60-day limit without that knowledge, and very difficult to do even if known, because the 60 days
are cumulative rather than consecutive. That method of counting days is peculiar to Edmonds.
(To be continued)
Natalie Shippen
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent: Wednesday, November 11, 2015 4:47 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Cc: Monillas, Adrienne; Hope, Shane
Subject: Shippen Requests for Enforcement
To the Planning Board Chairman:
Will the Planning Board Chairman (Neil Tibbot) please request that the Planning Department include copies (or
a list) of my Requests for Enforcement in the Sign Code reform packet, and the enforcement decision(s) that
was made for each? Early on, Shane Hope invited me to submit a list to her of any suggested code changes I
might have. I couldn't do that as I was learning with each appeal how the code did or didn't address my
Requests.
Like the Planning Department I didn't keep records; I assume it does now. I believe my Requests demonstrate
how the sign code operates. I recall only twelve Requests for Enforcement which involved 26 signs. As you will
see, some of my Requests were approved and some were denied.
Natalie Shippen
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Cunningham, Diane
From: English, Robert
Sent: Tuesday, September 29, 2015 5:27 PM
To: 'Natalie Shippen'
Cc: Spellman, Jana; Cunningham, Diane; Hope, Shane; Williams, Phil
Subject: RE: Code enforcement under 18.20 - sandwich board signs
Ms. Shippen —Sections 20.60 and 18.70 of the current City code are not consistent with regard to temporary
signs (including A -frames). For this reason, the City will not pursue code enforcement action. The City's
Planning Division will be updating the sign code this fall to address this issue. The process will include public
meetings at the Planning Board and City Council.
-----Original Message -----
From: Natalie Shippen[ma ilto:natalieshippen@comcast.net]
Sent: Monday, September 21, 2015 2:25 PM
To: English, Robert
Cc: Spellman, Jana; Cunningham, Diane; Hope, Shane
Subject: Code enforcement under 18.20 - sandwich board signs
Mr. English.
On September 3, 2015 1 submitted three (3) Requests for Enforcement to the Planning Department. I cited
Code Chapter 18.70.000.B.1.2.3. which requires a street use permit to place any temporary object in a "public
space or City right-of-way..." I said that three sandwich board signs,two on Fifth and one on Main, did not
have street use permits. The Planning Dept. flipped my Enforcement Requests to you, the City Engineer and
you appear to have flipped them right back to the Planning Dept.
I want answers to the following questions. Do the three sandwich board signs that I cited have street use
permits? Do any of the sandwich board signs that litter Main St. and Fifth Ave. have street use permits?
Chapter 18.70 is clear. "No person SHALL use or encroach upon any public place without obtaining a permit
from the development services director or City engineer." It then defines "use", "temporary in nature", and
"temporary object" which specifically mentions "sandwich boards."
Please explain why the Administration hasn't enforced 18.70.000 b.1.2.3. ? And why Requests for
Enforcement don't result in code enforcement?
Natalie Shippen
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent: Monday, September 21, 2015 2:25 PM
To: English, Robert
Cc: Spellman, Jana; Cunningham, Diane; Hope, Shane
Subject: Code enforcement under 18.20 - sandwich board signs
Mr. English.
On September 3, 2015 1 submitted three (3) Requests for Enforcement to the Planning Department. I cited
Code Chapter 18.70.000.B.1.2.3. which requires a street use permit to place any temporary object in a "public
space or City right-of-way..." I said that three sandwich board signs,two on Fifth and one on Main, did not
have street use permits. The Planning Dept. flipped my Enforcement Requests to you, the City Engineer and
you appear to have flipped them right back to the Planning Dept.
I want answers to the following questions. Do the three sandwich board signs that I cited have street use
permits? Do any of the sandwich board signs that litter Main St. and Fifth Ave. have street use permits?
Chapter 18.70 is clear. "No person SHALL use or encroach upon any public place without obtaining a permit
from the development services director or City engineer." It then defines "use", "temporary in nature", and
"temporary object" which specifically mentions "sandwich boards."
Please explain why the Administration hasn't enforced 18.70.000 b.1.2.3. ? And why Requests for
Enforcement don't result in code enforcement?
Natalie Shippen
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To: Shane Hope
From Ed! Advisory Board: Signage Committee
Clayton Moss, Pam Stuller, Jordana Turner, Robert Boehlke
RE: Recommendations for Sign Code Revisions
Date: September 18, 2015
Recommendations:
Amend the code to allow the applicant or the planning manager to refer design review
applications to the Architectural Design Board (ADB) in the following unique situations:
1. When the applicants specific building set back (from the public street) is
significantly greater than the adjacent buildings or when there are other special
physical circumstances or physical conditions, such as topography, sign
structures or other physical features on adjacent properties or public right-of-way
obstacles that substantial restrict the effectiveness of the proposed sign in
question. These special circumstances are peculiar to the particular business or
enterprise to which the applicant desires to draw attention to and do not apply
generally to other businesses in the area.
2. When there are special physical circumstances or physical conditions of the
applicants specific building such as architectural features or details that
substantially restrict the placement and effectiveness of the proposed sign in
question or which make it impossible to both integrate the sign with the
architectural design of the building and at the same time adhere to various code
restrictions with regards to sign type, area or height.
3. When certain exceptional design features are included in a proposed sign
design which enhances the appearance & quality of the sign but by doing so
would exceed code constraints. Examples would be monument sign designs
which are designed to be in harmony with the landscape design and/or integrate
with the design and scale of a particular building or multi -building complex.
4. When a retail center or multi -tenant building or complex submits a
comprehensive master sign program.
Section References
Definitions of Signs— request for clarification/revision.
1. "Internally illuminated sign" —Add "Halo Lit"
2. "Marquee": add description/definiation
3. "Outline cabinet sign" — Can also be non -illuminated
4. "Portable Sign" — add stanchion sign type to this group. Encourage artistry.
1. Identify who is responsible for the sign — require sticker "license tab". Add
Registration requirement, street use, provide application form, submittal
requirement check -list. Establish areas for legal portable signs in downtown.
Allow for a little bit of character, for instance restaurants to show their happy
hour specials, but protect quaint downtown streetscape so that it does not
Packet Pg. 92
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become littered with portable signs. Consider public wayfinding group signs
at critical decision points to direct people to businesses off the beaten path,
(Main street & 5th Ave). Restrict placement so portable signs are within two
of the building.
5. Projecting Sign — is perpendicular to the building fagade, usually double face.
Maximum projection from building surface is 4 ft. (Note maximum depth of wall
sign is 12")
6. "Sign Area" supporting brackets which are required by engineering and are
designed to be integral to the sign & building design will not be included in the
calculation of the sign area.
7. "Wall Graphic" - clarify differences between wall graphic and murals.
8. Wall Sign - revise to read affixed to building: wall, surface, or structure — is
single faced. Maximum depth of sign is 12" — not to extend further than 12" from
surface.
9. Freestanding signs- raise height limit to 5' and sq. ft area of graphic area — do not
include base in sq. ft area calculation- especially for monuments
10. Internally illuminated signs may only light letters "and graphic marks or logos"
20.60.025
1. Add zoning map showing commercial areas.
2. Facades at entry do not always lend themselves to signage. Allow signage on
facades and or have ADB review the situation. Small Micro -frontage businesses
like Daphne's should be allowed the 20'sq. ft area.
20.60.050
This section states there are no restrictions on wall graphics which contradicts the
previously stated restrictions.
20.60.070
"Construction Signs" increase area from 32 to 40 sq ft of graphic area. Encourage visual
imagery of the project.
Staff Review of Murals & Artwork;- designs have been approved by staff that are not in
harmony with architecture an neighborhood. Need to include a public notice, so adjacent
building owners have opportunity for input. Case in point Edmonds Historical Museum
was not informed. Include ADB in review process.
New Sign Types to consider:
A. Light Standard Graphics — banners
B. Portable Sign: "Stanchions" encourage stanchions vs A -Boards, allow ht to 5'.
C. Wayfinding/Directionals- purpose to reduce quantity of portable signs
C. Alley Gateway: refer to Post Alley Seattle, Bellen Alley in SF.
Packet Pg. 93
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Cunningham, Diane
From:
Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent:
Thursday, September 10, 2015 4:08 PM
To:
English, Robert
Cc:
Cunningham, Diane; Spellman, Jana
Subject:
Code appeal
Mr. English,
I understand the Planning Dept. has referred my "inquiry" to you.
I asked that three sandwich board signs (Waterfront Coffee; State Farm Mutual; Cafe de Louvre) be removed
because they didn't have a street use permit as required by ord. 18.70.000. Was that assertion correct? I also
asked where I could get a blank copy of a street use permit and an encroachment permit. And how much each
of those would cost (to clarify - not the cost to me for the blank permit forms, but to the owners of the
sandwich board signs). How much does each permit type cost an applicant?
Natalie Shippen
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Cunningham, Diane
From:
Pam Stuller <pam@edmondsdowntown.org>
Sent:
Wednesday, September 02, 2015 10:23 AM
To:
Cunningham, Diane
Cc:
Robert Boehlke
Subject:
Housewares sign input
Robert from Housewares was mentioning that the current sign code did not allow for his sign to be lit. He
couldn't remember the code limitations exactly, but as his sign was above 14' it's in the dark once the -sun goes
down.
Pam Stuller
Edmonds Downtown Alliance
206-914-1753
Packet Pg. 95
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Hope, Shane
Sent: Friday, August 14, 2015 1:01 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Subject: Sign Code Comments
Pls add this to your record of sign code comments:
I just got off the phone with the owner of Elegant Gyms (on 5th Ave.). He wanted to comment that A -board signs are
okay, that they are needed and useful. The only thing is they should be located close to the building, not in other parts
of the sidewalk.
Shane Hope, AICP
Development Services Director
City of Edmonds
425.771.0220 x-1216
shone. hope@edmondswo. gov
Packet Pg. 96
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Pam Stuller < Pam @walnutstreetcoffee.com>
Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2015 1:12 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Cc: Hope, Shane
Subject: sign code update
Attachments: color_logo_pantone_REV2.pdf
Hi Diane,
As requested, here is my feedback for consideration during your sign code update process.
My building is uniquely squat and sits slightly into the public right of way.
When going through the permitting process to create my sign, current code would not allow my sign to be
above my roof line - regardless of the height of my building.
With the required minimum height from the sidewalk for pedestrians and the maximum height allowed by my
roof line, I ended up with about 2' of workable height to create my blade sign. I ended up modifying my logo so
my sign would have enough visual impact from up the street.
I've attached an image of my sign, my building and my logo - so you can see the circle version I would
ultimately like to replace my current sign with.
I am not encouraging allowing enormous signs that are out of scale with their building/neighbors, but if there is
a way to accommodate some variances in the sign code for unique site situations - allowing signs to go a certain
amount above a roof line or exceed the size restrictions in some cases - I'd support it.
Please let me know if you have quesitons or if I can provide any additional info:
Packet Pg. 97
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IJ
611 -green -big circle
7459 - blue - inner circle
1535 - brown - cup handle, cup, and cup rim
497 - dark brown -STREET and oval area attached to S
7401 - tan -WALNUT and part of S and inner cup
716 - orange - OFFEE
white - foundation base coat
Packet Pg. 98
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Cunningham, Diane
From:
Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent:
Friday, July 31, 2015 11:35 AM
To:
Spellman, Jana
Cc:
Cunningham, Diane; Hope, Shane
Subject:
Edmonds Sign Code revision
Council Members:
REAL ESTATE
There shall be no exceptions from the Code for real estate signs. Real estate signs shall be used
only to direct buyers to SPECIFIC properties for sale, rent or lease. Directional signs are permitted as
regulated by the current code. Real estate offices may not use temporary signs to advertise their
office location (see flocks of little signs at intersections), or to identify their office location with
sidewalk signs.
The City of Edmonds invites residents to contribute to the maintenance of their corner parks and
hanging baskets by making an annual donation. What is the residents incentive to do so when downtown
businesses are allowed to plunk their tacky signs on the adjacent public sidewalks?
Down town business argues that their business will suffer without signs. How do they prove that? Open
their books to justify their signs? Not likely. Should businesses that don't need signs to prosper still be
allowed to place junk in the public right -of ways because then they will make still more money?
I remind the Council of a long-standing principle of organized business i.e. if you've got a problem,
government is not the solution.. Nowhere is that principle more applicable than in your current discussion
of the Edmonds Sign Code. Sign codes are about maintaining the quality of a municipality, not private
profitability.
Natalie Shippen
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2015 11:21 AM
To: Spellman, Jana
Cc: Cunningham, Diane; Hope, Shane
Subject: Edmonds sign code
Council Members:
Signs are junk; signs create visual blight on Edmonds landscaped streets. They diminish the results of
long-time efforts to improve the appearance of an ugly gritty mill town. The only valid commercial sign is
the permanent facade sign that identifies the business below it.
New rules should state that each business is allowed one facade sign to identify the business; two, if
on a corner a la Star Bucks at the corner of Fifth and Main.A multi -business building may add one
landscaped monument -style group sign e.g. the 210 building on Fifth. An area of stores may do the same
e.g. the Westgate QFC sign at the corner of Ninth and 104.
Commercial pole signs are not permitted. Landscaped monument signs are permitted are permitted.
Roof mounted signs are prohibited.
Administration —All permanent signs shall be approved by the ADB. If, as alleged, by the
Administration, the Planning Dept. doesn't have time to enforce the Code, its responsibility for
evaluating new signs should be removed to save time. The ADB is better positioned to judge quality, and
maintaining quality is the goal of a good sign code.I think some Edmonds permanent signs have
deteriorated.
Natalie Shippen
1
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent: Wednesday, July 22, 2015 3:02 PM
To: Spellman, Jana
Cc: Cunningham, Diane; Hope, Shane
Subject: Edmonds sign code
Council Members:
TEMPORARY signs — In Edmonds "temporary" signs are permanent because the 60 "cumulative" days
limitation isn't enforced, indeed, can't be enforced. Businesses aren't required to notify the City when
they stick signs on their building or on the sidewalk.The new code should say: a temporary sign is one
displayed for a limited time. Commercial temporary signs shall not be allowed except for a one-time, 60
CONSECUTIVE days opening event. Three temporary signs are then allowed only one of which may be
place on a public sidewalk.
Other temporary signs (besides commercial) shall not be allowed in the public right of way.
Temporary include, but are not limited to (in case I omitted to mention one of the pests): signs
designed and constructed with a chassis or support with or without wheels; menu and sandwich board
signs; "A" and "T" frame signs; wooden, metal or plastic "stake" or "yard"; signs; posters or banners
affixed to windows, railings overhangs; trees,hedges, or other structures or vegetation; flags; pennants,
banners; feather, ribbons and balloons.
Banner signs (including real estate signs may not be placed on roofs or walls (e.g. west wall of the
Chanterelle Building; roof of the business on the NW corner of Olympic View Dr. and 196th.). Banner
signs may not substitute for permanent signs.
Administration: Businesses must inform the Planning Dept. where and when they plan to place temporary
signs and the date they will remove them (within 60 CONSECUTIVE days). This is not an onerous
requirement as an opening event will occur only once.
Natalie Shippen
1
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Natalie Shippen <natalieshippen@comcast.net>
Sent: Friday, July 17, 2015 11:40 AM
To: Spellman, Jana
Cc: Hope, Shane; Cunningham, Diane
Subject: Edmonds sign code
Council Members:
The public meeting on August 3, 2015 to discuss Edmonds sign code changes is a welcome beginning and
one that, I hope, is concluded well before the holiday season. I will bring before the Council and Planning
Board some of the problems that I have found and their suggested remedies. I' start with the Edmonds
Code definition of "premises".
I believe the Edmonds code should not include the public sidewalk as part of the definition of
"Premises." Other cities don't include a definition of premises, but refer to it indirectly in their on-
premise/Off premise definitions as the "property" on which a sign is/isn't to be located. I question the
propriety, and possibly the legality of selectively giving use of the public right-of-way to adjacent,
private land -owners.
The current definition of "premises"also allows other junk to be placed on the public sidewalk e.g. the
clothes rack in front of the Savvy Traveler and a small promotional red fire truck in front of
Coldwell/Bain reality. These are in addition to their signs and banners. The result is the messiest corner
in Edmonds adjacent to the most landscaped area in Edmonds (Fountain, Corner Parks, and Trees).
Natalie Sh'ippen
Packet Pg. 102
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Cunningham, Diane
From:
Hope, Shane
Sent:
Wednesday, July 15, 2015 10:01 AM
To:
'Natalie Shippen'
Cc:
Cunningham, Diane
Subject:
Sign Code Meeting
Mrs. Shippen,
I know you have been long interested in potential amendments to the city's sign code. That is also on our work program
for this year. You are invited to a public meeting about issues and options for our sign code on August 3, 6 pm, in the
Council Chambers. I hope you can attend.
We will be issuing a press release about this soon and encouraging both residents and businesses to provide their
input. We are especially looking at the issue of A -frame signs downtown.
After the meeting, we will work on draft amendments to the sign code, so that in the fall, the public can review the draft
and provide input. Then the draft will be refined as needed and brought to the Planning Board for at least 2 public
meetings (including a public hearing) and recommendation, followed by at least 2 public meetings (including a public
hearing) and a decision of the City Council. A more detailed meeting schedule will be identified later.
Feel free to share this information with others that you think will be interested. Thanks
Note: Interested parties, whether or not they attend the August 3 meeting, are welcome to send comments about sign
regulations to the City at: diane.cunningham@edmondswa.gov.
Regards,
Shane Hope
Shane Hope, AICP
Development Services Director
City of Edmonds
425.771.0220 x-1216
shane.hope@edmondswa. gov_
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Cunningham, Diane
From: randall@randalijhodges.com
Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 12:20 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Subject: Opinion about signs, from Randall J Hodges Photography Gallery
Hello To all concerning Signs
I am unable to attend the August 3rd meeting but wanted to share my thoughts
I own the Randall I Hodges Photography Gallery at 317 Main Street. I do use an A Frame sign and find it
Very, Very Helpful and Valuable, especially to announce special features events or lesson in the gallery,
like Art Walk
My A Frame is not in anyone's way, and I keep it in great condition, and I invested a lot of money into it. I
believe it is only fair to let us keep the A Frame Signs, in light of the many restaurant's who get to seat
customers outside, taking up way more space than our little A Boards and causing much more congestion,
and hazardous situations, which I have witnessed. I am no way saying that they should go away also, but
if they get to utilize the side walk for extending there restaurant's seating, I should be able to take up 3
square feet to put out my sign
I know the new restaurant The Salt and Iron, gets to use over 150 square feet of sidewalk space taking up
over 1/2 of the passible sidewalk
If the A board are no longer able to be put out, then the restaurants should also stay inside and not
invade the sidewalks. Otherwise I would like to apply to put tables in front of my Gallery space also, then I
could place my A Frame Sign on top of it, calling it a table tent .... I think that sounds very fair and
reasonable.
For me it is a question of what is fair, and if some of the businesses get to use the sidewalk as space, than
so should the other merchants.... Many of us shop keepers need all the help we can get to get customers
in the door, and the A Frame Signs help me greatly
Thank you for your time and consideration of my comments on this important issue
Have a great day!
Randall Hodges
Randall J Hodges Photography
www.randalljhodges.com
randali@randallihodcies.com
cell 425-210-2506
Randall J Hodges Photography
Fine Art Photography Gallery
317 Main Street, Edmonds, WA 98020
ph: 425-582-0803
"Take Only Pictures, Leave Only Footprints"
"Walks Far"
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Hope, Shane
Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 9:42 AM
To: Planning Work Group
Cc: McConnell, Jeanie; Zulauf, JoAnne; Lambert, Jennifer; English, Robert; Building Work
Group
Subject: FW: City meeting on sign code options
Just wanted you to know we are starting to get the word out about a public meeting (August 3, 6 pm; see below) to
identify issues and options for our sign code —especially regarding A -frame type signs in the ROW downtown. I'd like at
least a couple of city staff persons to be at the meeting with me. Let Rob C. or me know if you are interested. More
details later.
Shane
From: Hope, Shane
Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 8:55 AM
To: 'andy@clinejewelers.com'
Cc: Doherty, Patrick
Subject: City meeting on sign code options
Hello Mr. Kline,
As you may know, the City has gotten various complaints about signage, esp. A -frame signs downtown in the public right
of way. The City Council has asked my department to look into whether our city's sign code should be amended and, if
so, how. We are sensitive to the signage needs of businesses, as well as community preferences.
To kick off this effort, we are holding a public meeting August 3, 6 pm, in the Council Chambers (250 5th Ave. N.) and
welcome both residents and business representatives. Please feel free to share this invitation with other DEMA
members.
The intent of the August 3 meeting is to identify sign issues and options. In the fall, the City expects to have a draft of
any code changes for further review and input. The draft will then be refined and, as part of more public process,
brought to the Planning Board for a recommendation and the City Council for a decision.
The existing sign code is available on the City's webpage: http1Jwww.edmondswa.gaY/rules-and-
regulations.html. Then click "Community Development Code (ECDC)", then "Title 20", then "20.60 Sign Code"
Interested parties, whether or not they attend the meeting, are welcome to send comments about sign regulations to
the City at: diane.cunningham@edmondswa.gov.
Note: We have shared this information with the ED! board, as well.
Thanks for your interest,
Shane Hope, AICP
Development Services Director
City of Edmonds
425.771.0220 x-1216
shone. ha a edmondswo. av
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Kurt Mattingly <kurt@dragonfire.gallery>
Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 12:33 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Subject: Dragonfire Art Gallery sign regulations to the City Statment
To whom it may concern:
Sadly I will not be able to attend the meeting discussing the "A" boards, but wanted to express my opinion.
I thinks it crucial, especial for small businesses not located right on 5tn or main to be able to display "A" boards. A huge
of my not so great traffic is due to our board placement on 51h
It would most definitely put us in a scary position of survival, and eventually out of business.
My boards are placed in areas that do not cause a safety concern for anyone.
PLEASE, I beg of you: DO NOT PASS a regulation stating NO "A" board usage in town.
Kindest regards,
Kurt Mattingly
Kurt Mattingly
GALLERY DIRECTOR
425-275-7670
10 facebook.com/DragonfireEdmonds
Packet Pg. 106
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Cunningham, Diane
From: Namascandystore@aol.com
Sent: Monday, July 13, 2015 9:17 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Subject: the A Board and sign issues
Hello: I own Nama's Candy Store and am a 20+ year resident of Edmonds. I have been involved in many aspects
of Edmonds retail including President of DEMA and member of the Chamber Board of Directors.
I agree with those that think there needs to be more control over signs and A Boards in Edmonds. I do admit to being
guilty of signage indiscretion at times and have some suggestions that I believe would solve most of the issues and still be
fair to all concerned.
A Boards:
One A Board per business location, no more than 3' tall and 21/2 ' wide. All A Boards must be within 5 feet of the building
housing the business and they must come in at closing. They cannot block any public walkway, curb or ramp. They
cannot be placed on property planted by the city or parks dept.
This would be a city wide code and include all business including Real estate. An open house sign would be placed within
5' of the home for sale. Event promotion boards would not be allowed.
Signage:
Two signs per Business, both attached to the business foot print not the building footprint. This pertains to buildings that
house multiple business. Hwy 99 signs would be larger than downtown core signs. Windows are at the business owners
discretion.
These simple changes would put an end to the following:
The Restaurant that puts a 5' sign in the handicap ramp at the fountain in front of Starbucks and never brings it in.
The store that puts 4 A Boards up on 4 separate corners, 1 block apart, 7 days a week. He does not even own a corner
business.
The gift store west of the theater that puts an A Board in the corner garden on 5th at the fountain.
The 3 businesses closer to 6th that bring signs down to both sides of 5th
The Realtor who puts 4 A Boards at each corner of 5th at the fountain for open houses and broker events
The store that has draped itself with banners and signs.
The solome courses pedestrians must negotiate on may of our sidewalks all over town.
The list goes on. The solutions must be all inclusive and fair to commerce.
Pat McKee
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From: David Harb [mailto:dh42674 mail.com]
Sent: Friday, January 23, 2015 1:36 PM
To: Spellman, Jana
Subject: A Boards
Council Members:
When are you going to restrict A boards that take over the majority of the sidewalks making
walking difficult. Our sidewalks are narrow and uneven and almost ever service provides and
business owner feels that it's their right to put at least one sign out. Some business even have
as many as three signs out.
Please do something that would be community friendly and provides for safe walking in
Edmonds. Besides it is doubtful that these signs generate any business.
Regards,
David Harb
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Cunningham, Diane
From: natalieshippen@comcast.net
Sent: Friday, August 01, 2014 1:07 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Subject: Enforcement of Edmonds sign code re temoroary signs
Planning Board Members:
Mr. Clugston's reply to my question about owner notification to the City when signs are placed in the
street is, "No, the code does not require that the business inform the City that they are going to put
out a temporary sign." My question to the Planning Board is How can the 60-day cumulative period,
each year requirement be enforced when the Planning Department has no record of the signs, and
third -party (complainant) information isn't accepted at a hearing or legal proceeding?
The Edmonds situation is aggravated because its Code requires more monitoring. Other towns
forbid temporary signs with two exceptions. a ONE-TIME business opening period of various lengths
(none as long as 60 days) and special events periods measured by a few days.
My appeal is a good example of a problem that could be corrected quickly. Temporary signs are the
worst visual offenders, and, for practical purposes, all temporary signs in Edmonds are permanent. I
respectfully suggest that the Board adopt a piece -meal approach to correcting the sign code. One
section of the code doesn't hinge upon another.
Natalie Shippen
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Cunningham, Diane
From: natalieshippen@comcast.net
Sent: Wednesday, April 23, 2014 12:52 PM
To: Cunningham, Diane
Cc: Spellman, Jana
Subject: Revision of the Edmonds sign code
To the Edmonds Planning Board:
Since only God knows when and how the City council will, procedurally, exercise its will, I hereby
submit some of my sign code concerns to the Planning Board. I shoot my ideas into the air, they'll fall
to earth I know not where (the City Council, perhaps? in this century, maybe).
PURPOSE of the sign code: To maintain Edmonds reputation as an attractive residential community
by protecting it from visual blight.
I think the following changes should be made to the Edmonds sign code:
TEMPORARY signs shall not be permitted anywhere at any time except:
1. to announce a new business opening - for a 60 CONSECUTIVE day period in the first year of
operation only, the 60 day period to begin the day the business license is issued.
2. to promote a special event - for four days prior to the event and a one -day clean-up following the
event.
3. Three of the following TYPES of TEMPORARY signs may be used for the opening and the
special events:
a) sandwich board b. feather (banner on a tall vertical pole) c)banners d)pennants e)small
placards on a stick used at intersections
There shall be no "indeterminable" lengths of time for "TEMPORARY" signs. There is a stigma
attached to signs and their temporary use is a privilege granted to business for a strictly limited time
PERMANENT signs that shall not be permitted anywhere: Pole signs; Blinking signs and movable
scrawl signs
GENERAL:
1. ALL signs require require a permit; the enforcement period begins on the day the permit is
issued.
2. No off -premise signs are permitted
3. The word "premise" should be re -defined. The public right-of-way is NOT a part of the premise
4. All PERMANENT signs must be approved by the ADB.
Example of bad sign include but is not limited to: the WALL banners on the Wells Fargo building on
5th; Chanterelle's-west wall'; SNAP Fitness; Claires Pantry -west wall; and the NW corner of
3rd/Dayton. The worst collection of signs are on the: SW corner of Fifth/Main; N. side of Main
between 3rd and Forth, and the NE corner of Milltown. WESTGATE
Natalie Shippen
Packet Pg. 110
7.A
Planning Board Agenda Item
Meeting Date: 05/25/2016
Land Division Code Update
Staff Lead: Shane Hope
Department: Development Services
Prepared By: Diane Cunningham
Background/History
Planning Board held an introduction to the Edmonds Subdivision Code on April 27, 2016.
Staff Recommendation
Consider information and be prepared to discuss.
Narrative
This subject was presented to the Planning Board at their meeting on April 27. A follow up from the
presentation will be discussed.
Packet Pg. 111
9.A
Planning Board Agenda Item
Meeting Date: 05/25/2016
Planning Board Extended Agenda
Staff Lead: N/A
Department: Planning Division
Prepared By: Diane Cunningham
Background/History
N/A
Staff Recommendation
Review and consider information
Narrative
Extended agenda is attached
Attachments:
05-25-2016 PB Extended Agenda
Packet Pg. 112
9.A.a
Items and Dates are subject to change
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Extended Agenda
May 25, 2016
Meeting Item
MAY 2016
May 25 1. Review and Discussion: Land Division Code Update
2. Public Hearing on Sign Code
JUNE 2016
June 8 1. Review and Discussion: Land Division Code Update
2. Public Hearing on Rezone from Open Space (OS) to Single Family
Residential (RS-8) to bring zoning for the site into agreement with
Comprehensive Plan. Site is located at 21805 98t" Ave W. (File No.
PLN20160019)
June 22 1. Public Hearing on Land Division Code Update
JULY 2016
July 13 1.
July 27 1. Discussion on Civic Center Master Plan
4UGUST 2016
Aug. 10 1. No public hearings to be scheduled tonight due to Police Foundation Open
House.
Aug. 24 1.
SEPTEMBER 2016
Sept. 14 1. Discussion on Civic Center Master Plan
Sept. 28 1.
OCTOBER 2016
Oct. 12 1.
Oct. 26 1.
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Packet Pg. 113
items ana I)ates are
9.A.a
to change
Pending 1. Community Development Code Re -Organization
2016 2. Neighborhood Center Plans and zoning implementation, including:
✓ Five Corners
3. Further Highway 99 Implementation, including:
✓ Potential for "urban center" or transit -oriented design/development
strategies
✓ Parking standards
4. Exploration of incentive zoning and incentives for sustainable development
Current Priorities
1. Neighborhood Center Plans & implementation.
2. Highway 99 Implementation.
Recurring Topics 1. Annual Adult Entertainment Report (January -February as necessary)
2. Election of Officers (1" meeting in December)
3. Parks & Recreation Department Quarterly Report (January, April, July, October)
4. Quarterly report on wireless facilities code updates (as necessary)
Packet Pg. 114