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2017-02-22 Planning Board Packeto Agenda Edmonds Planning Board snl. ynyo COUNCIL CHAMBERS 250 5TH AVE NORTH, EDMONDS, WA 98020 FEBRUARY 22, 2017, 7:00 PM 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. Approval of Draft Minutes of Feb. 8, 2017 3. ANNOUNCEMENT OF AGENDA 4. AUDIENCE COMMENTS 5. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS A. Development Services Director Report 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Public Hearing on minor adjustments to the sign code with a focus on pedestrian signs. 7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 8. NEW BUSINESS 9. PLANNING BOARD EXTENDED AGENDA A. Review of Extended Agenda 10. PLANNING BOARD CHAIR COMMENTS 11. PLANNING BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS 12. ADJOURNMENT Edmonds Planning Board Agenda February 22, 2017 Page 1 2.A Planning Board Agenda Item Meeting Date: 02/22/2017 Approval of Draft Minutes of Feb. 8, 2017 Staff Lead: N/A Department: Planning Division Prepared By: Diane Cunningham Background/History N/A Staff Recommendation Approve the draft minutes Narrative The draft minutes are attached. Attachments: PB170208d Packet Pg. 2 2.A.a CITY OF EDMONDS PLANNING BOARD MINUTES February 8, 2017 Chair Rubenkonig called the meeting of the Edmonds Planning Board to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Public r Safety Complex, 250 — 5"b Avenue North. N BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT STAFF PRESENT Carreen Rubenkonig, Chair Rob Chave, Planning Division ManagerLL Nathan Monroe, Vice Chair Jerry Bevington, Video Recorder — Matthew Cheung m Todd Cloutier Phil Lovell Daniel Robles Malia Clark, Student Representative cc BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT Alicia Crank (excused) READING/APPROVAL OF MINUTES BOARD MEMBER LOVELL MOVED THAT THE MINUTES OF JANUARY 25, 2017 BE APPROVED AS T- CORRECTED. VICE CHAIR MONROE SECONDED THE MOTION, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Ln ANNOUNCEMENT OF AGENDA The agenda was accepted as presented. AUDIENCE COMMENTS No one in the audience indicated a desire to comment during this portion of the meeting. DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DIRECTOR REPORT TO PLANNING BOARD Chair Rubenkonig referred the Board to the written report that was provided by the Development Services Director. Board Member Lovell asked if the Board would receive an update on the outcome of the January 25"' meeting of the Alliance for Housing Affordability (AHA). Mr. Chave referred to information provided in the Board's packet for their discussion on the AHA's Work Plan and Budget. Board Member Lovell also requested an update on the City Council's most recent discussion relative to the sign code. Mr. Chave answered that Ms. Hope's presentation to the City Council was regarding the process, and there was no substantive discussion about potential amendments. The City Council also extended its suspension of enforcement of the sign provisions for an additional month. Chair Rubenkonig reminded the Board Members of Mayor Earling's 2017 State of the City Address at the Edmonds Theater on February 9th from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Packet Pg. 3 DISCUSSION OF MINOR ADJUSTMENTS TO THE SIGN CODE Mr. Chave referred to Attachment 1, which provides a summary of the potential sign code issues/changes that have come up subsequent to adoption of the updated sign code. The issues were raised by commercial property owners and businesses in the downtown and focus primarily on pedestrian signs. He reviewed the issues/changes and the Board commented as follows: Cost. The current fee for blade signs is $75, and the current fee for pedestrian signs is $125. It has been recommended that the fee for pedestrian signs be reduced to match the fee for blade signs. It has also been recommended that the fee for both blade signs and pedestrian signs be reduced to $50. Recognizing that the Board does not have a role in setting the fee schedule, Board Member Lovell expressed his belief that the fee should be as low as possible. The remainder of the Board appeared to agree. ti T Q Sign Area. As per the current code, pedestrian signs are now considered "permanent" signage and count against the N overall sign area a business is allowed. However, based on the Director's interpretation (Attachment 2), pre-existing O0 signs can be "grandfathered" so that they do not count against allowed sign area. One option to address concern would be to retain the current situation with the grandfathering of pre-existing signs. The second option would be to ,- memorialize the "interpretation" of code. A third option would be to amend the code so that pedestrian signs do not w count against sign area. While the latter approach would be consistent with the old code, there are potential +; implications. If pedestrian signs do not count against the total sign area, there would be incentive for everyone to have one. Currently, the only signs that do not count against the overall sign area are true temporary signs and blade signs. The intent is to encourage businesses to use blade signs, which are very visible, instead of pedestrian signs cc that can end up impeding pedestrian access. Chair Rubenkonig said she supports the "interpretation" that was issued by the Director. However, she suggested that the "grandfathered" pedestrian signs should be linked to the businesses and locations. If either changes, the condition would no longer exist. Mr. Chave said that as the intent of the interpretation, but he agreed it could be clarified further. Board Member Lovell asked staff to clarify the differences between Option 1 and Option 2. Mr. Chave said Option T_ 1 would simply refer to the interpretation and no amendment would be needed. Option 2 would memorialize the °r° interpretation into the code. Staff prefers Option 2 since it would provide clarifying language in the code rather than relying on a separate interpretation. He explained that the interpretation would only apply to existing businesses, c and any new businesses would have to comply with the new sign code requirements. Existing businesses that move to a new location would also have to comply. 0 The Board expressed support for Options 2 and 3 for public hearing purposes. Location. Currently, pedestrian signs must be located within 10 feet of the building entrance and within 2 feet of the building fagade. Deviation from the 2-foot requirement requires Architectural Design Board (ADB) approval at a cost of ($915). The ADB's focus is on architectural design (buildings, site plans, etc.), and it is arguable whether the ADB is the right body to make decisions related to the location of pedestrian signs, particularly if there are no clear criteria in place. These decisions are probably more appropriate as staff decisions, which are lower cost and easier to accomplish. The old code allowed pedestrian signs on the lot rather than being tied to the business location, and off -site pedestrian signs were never allowed. Staff is recommending that ECDC 20.60.055(A)(3) be amended to read: "The sign must be located within 10 feet of the building entry and must be placed within two feet of the building. Any deviations from the standard may be approved by the Development Services Director if he/she finds that an alternative location in front of the building or on the property occupied by the business is less restrictive to pedestrian movement or accessibility. " The City Attorney advised that the proposed amendment would address most situations. Planning Board Minutes February 9, 2017 Page 2 Packet Pg. 4 2.A.a Mr. Chave advised that the proposed language in ECDC 20.60.055(A)(3) is intended to incorporate both of the options outlined in the staff report. He also noted that ECDC 20.60.0655(A)(5) was amended to change "five feet" to "44 inches" to be consistent with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for sidewalks. At the request of Vice Chair Monroe, Mr. Chave agreed to double check to make sure that 44 inches is the right number for ADA requirements. Board Member Robles suggested that the difference between 44 and 48 may be due to the allowance for a handrail to protrude four inches into the walkway. The Board voiced general support for staff s proposed amendment. Out -of -Sight Businesses. Currently, all commercial signage is tied to the business location, which means that off - site commercial signage is not permitted. This has always been the case for legal reasons. If signs are allowed to be placed off -site, the City could end up with a lot of pedestrian signs clustered in highly -visible locations. Discussions with the business community included the concept of having some type of directional signage that would show people there are other businesses off the main streets. The City Attorney drafted language that would clearly ti provide for public directional signage in the code for purposes of tourism and public information. Up to this time, c governmental signs have been exempt from the sign code. The proposed amendment would take them out of the N exempt category, but allow them under the following provision (ECDC 20.60.075): "Governmental signs, while O0 exempt from the processes and development regulations required by this Chapter, shall be erected and maintained subject to rules and procedures established by the Development Services director. In all cases, the city retains the 4- right to remove any governmental sign at its sole discretion. " The proposed language would authorize the Director G to enter into an agreement with a public agency to provide a directional sign program, without proscribing a specific program at this time. He cautioned against describing the program as part of the code language, since there are a number of issues that still need to be worked out. 's Mr. Chave reminded the Board that, based on a Supreme Court decision, signs cannot be regulated based on content. The assumption is that a pedestrian sign outside of a business is advertising that particular business, but that does not have to be the case. For example, a business could display a pedestrian sign to advertise a different business that is located further down the street. Board Member Lovell recalled that, in earlier discussions, the Board felt there should be some sort of City- Q sponsored solution, which may involve some type of pole sign with hanging, adjustable, changeable signage on corners to direct people to businesses. However, a lot of work and money will be required to implement the LO program. The proposed amendment supports the concept, but it has to be done under the auspice of some authority. w Vice Chair Monroe asked if the ADB would be involved in the process of creating a directional sign program to ensure that the signs are uniform and attractive. Mr. Chave pointed out that, as currently proposed, the amendment would allow the Director to involve the ADB in the process, if deemed necessary. In the past, directional signage has been worked on with the Arts Coordinator. Chair Rubenkonig said she would like to add language to the proposed amendment to ensure that the sign program is uniform and consistent throughout the downtown. However, the remainder of the Board agreed that the language, as written, implies uniformity. Vice Chair Monroe asked if it would be appropriate to add code language that requires the City to fund the program. Mr. Chave cautioned against adding this specific requirement. However, he acknowledged that, more often than not, governmental signs are paid for by the City. He explained that the proposed amendment is intended to authorize a directional sign program, but the specific details would not be spelled out in the code language. The Board voiced support for the proposed amendment, but agreed that both options (provide or not provide a directional signage program) should be presented for public hearing. Mr. Chave pointed out that staff is proposing an additional amendment in ECDC 20.60.080(A)(2)(b), which strikes out language that was inadvertently included in the last amendment. It would not be practical or feasible to require a permit for all temporary signage. Planning Board Minutes February 9, 2017 Page 3 Packet Pg. 5 2.A.a Board Member Lovell recalled that the Board previously reviewed sign code amendments and forwarded a recommendation to the City Council. After the code amendments were adopted by the City Council, additional feedback from the business community motivated the City Council to reconsider some of the details. The issues were forwarded to the Planning Board for further review. He asked if the business community has been advised of the proposed amendment options. Mr. Chave said the amendments are intended to address the issues raised by the business community. A public hearing has been scheduled for February 22"d, at which time the business community can provide input. ALLIANCE FOR HOUSING AFFORDABILITY (AHA) WORK PLAN AND BUDGET Mr. Chave said this item was placed on the agenda for informational purposes. He reviewed that the City is a member of the Alliance for Housing Affordability (AHA). Each year the AHA comes up with a work program and a budget that each of the participating jurisdictions contribute to. The AHA has also been successful in obtaining grant funding. The information provided in the Staff Report outlines the various cities that are members of the AHA, as well as what and how they contribute. It also provides the draft work plan for the next fiscal year (July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018). ti T Q Board Member Lovell asked if Edmonds is represented on the AHA subcommittee that was established to begin preliminary N discussions to strategize how to establish a funding source to assist with the construction of new affordable housing. Mr. O0 Chave said he does not know the makeup of the subcommittee, but Ms. Hope attends the AHA's regular committee meetings. Board Member Lovell pointed out that nearly half of the County's population lives in unincorporated Snohomish County. He asked who represents these residents. Mr. Chave said the County Council is the legislative body that represents the unincorporated areas, and they have a representative on the AHA Board. Board Member Lovell recalled that representatives from the AHA previously made a presentation to the Board. Mr. Chave said the presentation was made by the Program Manager, who is a hired staff member. Chair Rubenkonig noted that the Development Services Director is seeking to secure funding for a consultant to assist the City in updating its Housing Strategy, and the data that is accumulated will impact how the City goes about establishing its own housing approach. REVIEW OF EXTENDED AGENDA Chair Rubenkonig referred to the Extended Agenda and invited Board Member input. She noted that many meeting dates are blank at this time, as the Board waits for additional information and further direction. The agenda items will be filled in as Ln time goes on. w Board Member Lovell recalled that the City Council indicated a desire to have a joint meeting with the Planning Board. He requested an update on when this meeting might be scheduled. Chair Rubenkonig said the former City Council President indicated an interest in having a joint meeting, but she has not discussed the idea with the current president. PLANNING BOARD CHAIR COMMENTS Chair Rubenkonig referred to an email that she asked staff to send to Board Members that provided current references to housing. She felt the information on the three websites could help the Board Members better understand the options for approaching the Housing Strategy Update, as well as the new terminology and concepts available for consideration. She reviewed the three references as follows: The first website references a new phrase called "missing middle housing." The graphic provided shows a spectrum of housing from single-family all the way to high-rise. One could discuss the availability of duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, courtyard apartments, bungalow courtyards, townhouse, multiplex and live/work units. The second website talks about working with small developers to connect developers committed to a small-scale, incremental, infill approach to share expertise and collaborate on new tools. The website looks at a scale of development of 4 to 12 units. The Board has had some discussion about the need to encourage conversation with developers who might do such projects in Edmonds. The third website references a Portland plan that is similar to what is taking place in the City of Seattle. Portland uses the phrase "abundant housing options." The article is part of a series about "legalizing inexpensive housing," Planning Board Minutes February 9, 2017 Page 4 Packet Pg. 6 which is a term she had not heard before. The term "affordability" is difficult to define, and other terms may be more appropriate. Portland's approach is to allow small duplexes and triplexes in single-family zones without letting property owners erect buildings larger than currently zoned. It also explains how that, in a neighborhood, you can convert an existing building into a duplex or triplex. The Board has not yet discussed this concept. Board Member Lovell said it might be helpful for the Board to have graphics and/or photographs of actual buildings that represent the concepts that might be considered as part of the City's Housing Strategy. Chair Rubenkonig agreed that examples would be useful. Vice Chair Monroe suggested that, before the Board gets too far down the road, they should first identify the problems they are trying to address relative to affordable housing. While there are a variety of interesting ideas and concepts for the Board to consider, Board Member Cloutier agreed that the retreat discussion should focus first on clearly identifying the goals and objectives they want the Housing Strategy to address. Having a clear understanding of the problems will help the Board identify the best solutions. ti T Q Board Member Cloutier suggested that, for the retreat discussion, it would be helpful to invite someone who can address N what the metrics should be, where the City stands, where the shortfalls are, and what is achievable in the future. The AHA O0 Program Manager may be able to help the Board frame its approach. Mr. Chave said the AHA is intended to be a resource for all of the member jurisdictions. While the preliminary discussions about the various options are good, the Board should U_ keep in mind that the more detailed discussions will follow as the process moves forward. Board Member Cloutier G summarized that, rather than solving problems and writing plans, the retreat discussion should focus on reviewing a range of possible options and solutions. Board Member Chang asked how the City is doing compared to other nearby jurisdictions. Mr. Chave answered that AHA completed a profile for each of the jurisdictions similar to Edmonds. Staff could attempt to compile some comparisons for the Board's information. Board Member Chang felt this information would help the Board focus on what the actual issues are. Vice Chair Monroe agreed that understanding how Edmonds compares with other jurisdictions would help the Board better understand where the problems lie. Chair Rubenkonig said she attended a workshop sponsored by the University of Washington's Department of Urban Design C and Planning where it was suggested that if you want to make housing affordable, you must look at the government cost of , regulation. Perhaps the Board needs to look at the code to see if there are regulations that hold the City back from getting T_ development that leads toward affordable housing. w Board Member Robles agreed that there are good ideas for addressing affordable housing, such as 3-d printed housing, that would not be allowed with the current codes in place. Perhaps the Board's job is to create paths for the various concepts to be implemented. Chair Rubenkonig noted that the intent is to have the retreat at one of the Board's regular meetings in April. PLANNING BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS There were no Planning Board Member comments. ADJOURNMENT The Board meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m. Planning Board Minutes February 9, 2017 Page 5 Packet Pg. 7 5.A Planning Board Agenda Item Meeting Date: 02/22/2017 Development Services Director Report Staff Lead: Shane Hope, Director Department: Development Services Prepared By: Diane Cunningham Background/History N/A Staff Recommendation Review and discuss Narrative Report is attached Packet Pg. 8 5.A.a pF EDP Al� MEMORANDUM fnc. t 890 Date: February 17, 2017 To: Planning Board Members From: Shane Hope, Development Services Director Subject: Director Report We hope you enjoyed Valentine's Day 2017! Next Planning Board Meeting The next Planning Board meeting on February 22 will feature a public hearing on potential new sign code amendments related to pedestrian signs. The full agenda packet is online. REGIONAL NEWS Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) PSRC is a regional organization that includes representation from city and county governments in a four -county area (Snohomish, King, Pierce, and Kitsap). It has various boards and committees working on issues where coordination is useful, especially for growth management and related topics such as transportation and economy. F1 The Growth Management Policy Board's meeting in February included: o Legislative briefing o Update on the Regional Centers Framework project o Update on the "Taking Stock 2016" project. Ll The Transportation Policy Board met February 9. The Board authorized changes in status for two projects in the Transportation 2040 Plan and discussed coordination with the Puget Sound Clear Air Agency on regional gas emission reduction targets. Ll The Economic Development Board, at its February meeting, considered information on the draft Regional Economic Strategy. The draft Strategy will be available for review in March. F1 The Regional Staff Committee (which includes the Edmonds Development Services Director) met February 16 and discussed: o PSRC's work program and budget o Regional Centers Stakeholder Working Group recommendations o Regional Integrated Transit Network and Plan update o Transit Access Checklist and Toolkit (for more information, see: http://www.psrc.org/transportation/transit/transit-access/). 1 1 P a g e Packet Pg. 9 5.A.a Snohomish County Tomorrow (SCT) SCT is a countywide organization with representation from Snohomish County and all cities within the county. It has several committees that coordinate or work on issues related to growth management. L The SCT Planning Advisory Committee (composed primarily of department directors) met this month to discuss subjects such as the 2016 Growth Monitoring Report, the Alliance for Housing Affordability, and the PSRC Regional Centers Framework. Alliance for Housing Affordability (AHA) L The AHA policy coordinator made a presentation about AHA's work to the Edmonds City Council on February 14. This was part of a series of briefings for jurisdictions in Snohomish County. It also provided an opportunity for the City Council to approve AHA's annual work program and budget. (Based on population, each local government member contributes a portion of the basic costs to operate AHA.) Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) Funds Snohomish County announces a public hearing on March 3, 2017 at 9 a.m. with the Policy Advisory Board of the Snohomish County Urban County Consortium in the Henry M. Jackson Board Room, 8th Flr, Robert J. Drewel Building (Administration Building East) located on the Snohomish County campus at 3000 Rockefeller, Everett, WA to review final project performance for four affordable housing projects in Everett, Marysville, and unincorporated Snohomish County. The projects created 42 units of affordable rental housing for low-income families and were funded under the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP). All interested persons are invited to attend and comment. LOCAL NEWS Highway 99 Subarea Plan The draft Highway 99 Subarea Plan will be discussed at a public hearing by the City Council on February 21. Earlier, the Planning Board had considered the draft plan and recommended approval (with minor plan revisions) Meanwhile, a Planned Action Environmental Impact Statement for the plan is being prepared. Development regulations to implement the plan will also be drafted soon for Planning Board consideration. Sustainable Cities Partnership The City has been working with Western Washington University on a number of projects of mutual interest. This is part of the inaugural "Sustainable Cities Partnership" (SCP), a yearlong collaboration between Western Washington University's Office of Sustainability, the Association of Washington Cities (AWC), and one partner city chosen through a competitive application process. The first three projects were begun during the Fall quarter and were completed in December, 2016. These included a promotion campaign for the 4th Avenue Arts Corridor, ideas for ways to improve/restore the Edmonds Marsh, and strategies for working toward a zero waste program in the city. The City website contains a page with summaries of these and all of the other upcoming projects. Student reports are posted as they are completed by WWU classes and students (the first three project reports are already available online). The site is available at: http://www.edmondswa.gov/sustainable-cities- partnership.html . 21 Packet Pg. 10 5.A.a Downtown Public Restrooms New downtown public restrooms are now open (on 5t" Avenue between City Hall and the Rusty Pelican Restaurant), dawn to dusk daily. The public restrooms had previously been recommended by the Planning Board as an addition to the Capital Improvement Program. The City Council approved a budget to make this project a priority and it has been completed well before the busy summer season! The above photo shows the new public restroom building prior to completion of the art. Nevertheless, it makes a handsome and convenient addition to the downtown. Architectural Design Board The Architectural Design Board held a meeting on February 1 and approved the proposed additional wall sign area for three open signs adjacent to the existing wall signs for the Everett Clinic with conditions. There is not a meeting scheduled for March. Economic Development Commission The Economic Development Commission met February 15. Discussion started with subgroup reports on: a) Highway 99; b) Signs; c) Five Corners; and d) Parking. Other agenda topics were: "Metrics for Economic Development; "Future Leadership;" and "Broader Economic Development Strategy". Hearing Examiner This month, the Hearing Examiner considered a variance for QFC to construct a new canopy to cover an existing trash compactor located within the minimum required street setback. The site is located in the Westgate Mixed -Use (WMU) zone. The existing trash compactor is within the required 16-foot setback from Edmonds Way (SR-104), and the proposed canopy would cover the trash compactor in its current location. As of this date, the City has not received the Hearing Examiner's decision. 3 1 P a g e Packet Pg. 11 5.A.a Historic Preservation The Historic Preservation Commission met February 9. Items discussed were: the concept of creating an alternative way to recognize buildings that are significant to Edmonds' history but do not qualify for the Register for some reason or another; discussing with staff the option of offering an expedited permit process as an incentive for owners to place historic properties on the Historic Register; and an upcoming joint exhibit with the Museum called "Within These Walls". Sister City Commission The City of Edmonds Sister City Commission invites students 14-18 years of age to participate in the annual student exchange to Hekinan, Japan. Students will travel to Hekinan for the last two weeks in July 2017 and then host a Japanese student during their stay in Edmonds during the first two weeks of August 2017. Student cost for the trip will range between $1,600 and $2,200 depending on the cost of airfare. Hekinan and Edmonds have been Sister Cities since 1988 and the exchange program has been a central component of that relationship. Deadline to apply has been extended to Thursday, March 23, 2017 at 4:30 pm. For applications and more information, go online to: http://www.edmondswa.gov/sister-city-exchange-programs.html. Tree Board The Tree Board meets next on March 3. The agenda will be posted before then. City Council The Council's February 14 meeting included: ❑ Update on Alliance for Housing Affordability (AHA) ❑ Presentation of revised Commute Trip Reduction Plan and ordinance (incorporating updated CTR Plan) Report on bids for the Hwy 99 Pipe Rehabilitation Project Several Police Department requests The Council's February 21 meeting is anticipated to include: ❑ Public hearing on draft Highway 99 Subarea Plan (as recommended by the Planning Board) ❑ Street Vacation for portion of 92nd Avenue W Shoreline Master Program options —continuing discussion State of the City Mayor Earling discussed the "state of the city" at a February 9 public meeting in the Edmonds Theater. He pointed to various city successes, such as additional life-saving equipment as part of fire district negotiations and progress on a design concept for a waterfront connector over the BNSF rail line. He also noted that city revenues and the regional economy have been recovering well from the recession; at the same time, caution was needed because periods of expansion don't last indefinitely. Meanwhile, our region is poised to continue economic and population growth; Edmonds will need to continue planning for its share. 41 Packet Pg. 12 5.A.a COMMUNITY CALENDAR 51 ❑ Current Exhibit, Historical Museum, Edmonds in Focus — Everyone loves old photographs! ❑ Feb. 25: Edmonds Clam Chowder Cook -Off, Edmonds Yacht Club, 11 am — 4 pm ❑ Feb. 25: Edmonds Daddy Daughter Dance, Edmonds Senior Center, 6:30 pm ❑ April 15: Rotary Easter Egg Hunt, FAC Field, 10 am Packet Pg. 13 6.A Planning Board Agenda Item Meeting Date: 02/22/2017 Public Hearing on minor adjustments to the sign code with a focus on pedestrian signs. Staff Lead: Rob Chave Department: Planning Division Prepared By: Rob Chave Background/History The City Council approved amendments to the sign code on August 2, 2016. The Planning Board reviewed potential amendments to the pedestrian sign provisions on February 15, 2017. Staff Recommendation Forward a recommendation to the City Council. Narrative The Council adopted amendments to the Edmonds sign code (ECDC 20.60) on August 2, 2016. The amendments covered a variety of minor code adjustments, with the most substantial changes dealing with "pedestrian signs" (e.g. A -frames and sandwich boards). The business community has provided feedback since the code was amended, and staff is suggesting a few modifications. The issues are summarized in Attachment 1. Attachment 2 contains an interpretation issued by the Development Services Director dealing with pre-existing pedestrian signs and allowed sign area. Attachment 3 shows how potential amendments could be included in an updated sign code dealing with the issues identified in Attachment 1. Since the Planning Board meeting of February 8th staff has made two modifications to the proposed amendments. First, we added a provision to the amendment under 20.60.055(A)(3); the modification deals with businesses that are set back from a street and therefore potentially have room to place a pedestrian sign away from the building but not encroaching on a sidewalk (this is part of the ALTERNATIVE language provided under #3). Second, under 20.60.055(A)(5) we have included a reference to the Engineering standards for "clear zone" in 18.70.030 rather than including a different number in this section. The Engineering chapter describes the standards and exceptions, such as: "C. Issuance by the Development Services Director or City Engineer. The development services director, city engineer or their respective designee may administratively, without hearing, approve a street use or encroachment permit if: Packet Pg. 14 6.A e. A "clear zone" must be maintained on public sidewalks or walkways. A clear zone refers to an area seven feet in height and five feet in width providing a level, safe walking surface along the public sidewalk. Clear zone on sidewalks shall not include any curbing, planting strips or ramps. For tables and chairs placed in the public right-of-way, the clear zone can be reduced to four feet in width in front of obstacles (trees, street lights, sign posts, etc.);..." Attachments: Attachment 1: Summary of Potential Sign Code Issues Attachment 2: Sign Code Interpretation 2016-1 Attachment 3: Draft Sign Code amendments Packet Pg. 15 6.A.a Potential Sign Code Issues / Changes Cost Current. Current fees for blade signs (all proposed blade signs) are $75. Current fees for pedestrian signs (all proposed pedestrian signs) are $125. These are one-time fees and do not require renewal. Note that $35 technology fee also applies, so the total fees are $110 and $160, respectively. Options. (1) Reduce pedestrian sign fee to match blade sign fee ($75). (2) Reduce fees for blade/pedestrian signs to $50 (+ $35 = $85). * Note that fees are set by Council resolution and do not require a code change Sign Area Current. Pedestrian signs, because they are now considered "permanent" signage, count against overall business sign area. A Director's Interpretation enables pre-existing signs to be 'grandfathered' so that they do not count against allowed sign area. Note that blade signs do not count against sign area — an incentive encouraging these types of signs. Options. (1) Retain the current situation with the grandfathering of pre-existing signs. (2) Memorialize the 'interpretation' in code. (3) Amend the code so that pedestrian signs do not count against sign area (the same as the old code) Location Current. Pedestrian signs must be located within 10 feet of the building entrance and within 2 feet of the building fagade. Deviation from the 2-feet-from-fagade requirement must be reviewed by the ADB, with a high fee ($915). The old code allowed pedestrian signs on the lot rather than being tied to the business location. Off -site pedestrian signs were never allowed. Options. (1) Allow for variation from the 2-feet-from-fagade requirement to be approved by staff ($285), or establish a special specific fee for this type of review commensurate with the reduced fee for these types of signs (e.g. $50). (2) Expand the allowed variation to include locations on the business property (tied to the building or lot the business is located on). Out -of -Sight Businesses Current. All commercial signage is tied to the business location. This means off -site commercial signage is not permitted. This has always been the case, for legal reasons. Options. (1) Clearly provide for public directional signage in the code for purposes of tourism and public information. This would need to be provided and/or sponsored by a public agency (e.g. BID). Packet Pg. 16 6.A.b MEMORANDUM Date: September 1, 2016 To: Interpretations File No. 2016-1 From: Shane Hope, Development Services Director Subject: Total Size of Existing Wall Signs and Pedestrian Signs in Downtown/Waterfront Area Date Issued/Posted: SEPTEMBER 5, 2016 Effective Date: SEPTEMBER 20, 2016 (unless appealed in a timely manner) ISSUE OUTLINE: A sign code amendment (Ordinance # 4039) was adopted on August 2 and became effective on August 12, 2106. It is codified in Chapter 20.60 ECDC. The code change requires a permit for pedestrian signs, which are defined to include A -frames and similar portable signage, in the downtown/ waterfront area. It also adds limitations on number, size, and location of such signs. However, as business owners have begun coming in to obtain their permits, the new requirement for pedestrian signs to count in the total allowed signage for the frontage has become problematic for those existing businesses that already had a permitted wall sign of maximum allowed size and a pedestrian sign that, of itself, meets the new size and location requirements except that, when counted together with the existing wall sign, exceeds the total signage size limit. ANALYSIS: Businesses that previously installed wall signage to the allowed size and also used a pedestrian sign did so under existing regulations at the time. To now remove and replace the existing wall signage with new smaller wall signage, so that an existing pedestrian sign can be retained, would be costly. A question has arisen whether businesses may obtain a pedestrian sign permit if they have an existing pedestrian sign that meets all requirements for pedestrian signs, except that the combined size of the pedestrian sign and the existing permitted wall signage would exceed the total allowed size by six square feet or less. The nonconformance provisions of the Edmonds Community Development Code (Chapter 17.40 ECDC) allow certain uses that were once allowed but are no longer allowed, due to a later code change, to continue under limited conditions. ECDC 17.40.040 (Nonconforming Signs) has particular relevance. This provision is not intended to allow wholesale continuation of uses once legal but later prohibited or restricted. However, the nonconformance provision (sometimes known as "grandfathering") may be Packet Pg. 17 6.A.b interpreted to apply in the narrow context of the new limit on the combined total size of an existing wall sign (permitted prior to August 12, 2016) and a pedestrian sign (allowed prior to August 12, 2016), when a pedestrian sign meets all other requirements of ECDC 20.60.055, as amended. At the same time, it is recognized that the sign code is undergoing further review and the City Council has requested that the Development Services Department report back on this topic, including implementation of Ordinance No. 4039, in 2017. The sign code may be amended by the City Council at any time and additional restrictions added. Any interpretation now regarding pedestrian signage should not be viewed as continuing long-term. THEREFORE, THE FOLLOWING INTERPRETATION IS HEREBY ISSUED: In the downtown/waterfront area, where a wall sign exists that was legally permitted prior to August 12, 2016, and a pedestrian sign has been in place during some or all of the period between June 12, 2016 and August 12, 2016, the pedestrian sign need not be counted in the total square footage of the allowed size for permanent signage for purposes of obtaining a permit for the pedestrian sign, provided that a complete permit application is received within 45 days of the effective date of this interpretation. This interpretation does not apply to any other aspects of the sign code. To wit, the number, size, and location of individual pedestrian signs and any other applicable code restrictions must otherwise be fully met. ❑ This interpretation does not apply to pedestrian signs when a wall sign is applied for after August 12, 2016. ❑ This interpretation does not apply if: o A complete application for a pedestrian sign permit is not received by the City within 45 days of the effective date of this interpretation; or o The City's sign code is amended after August 12, 2016 to further restrict or prohibit pedestrian signs in a manner that would conflict with this interpretation. APPEAL PROCDURES: Pursuant to Edmonds Community Development Code (ECDC) Section 20.01.003(A), formal interpretations of the text of the ECDC by the director or designated staff are appealable as Type II decisions. Should anyone wish to appeal this interpretation, a written appeal, accompanied by the required appeal fee (see Planning Division fee handout) must be submitted within 14 calendar days of the date of issuance/posting of this interpretation. The deadline for filing an appeal of this interpretation is: 4:30 P.M. ON SEPT. 19, 2016. A written appeal must contain the following: 1. The appellant's name, address and phone number; 2. A statement describing the appellant's standing to appeal; 3. Identification of the application which is the subject of the appeal; 4. The appellant's statement of grounds for appeal and the facts upon which the appeal is based with specific references to the facts in the record; 5. The specific relief sought; Packet Pg. 18 6.A.b 6. A statement that the appellant has read the appeal and believes the contents to be true, followed by the appellant's signature. Notice: 1) Published in the Everett Herald 2) Posted at Edmonds City Hall, 2nd Floor— Development Services Department 3) Posted at Public Safety Complex, 121 5t" Ave N 4) Posted at Edmonds Library Packet Pg. 19 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Sections: 20.60.000 Purpose. 20.60.005 Definitions. 20.60.010 Permit required. 20.60.015 Design review procedures. 20.60.020 General regulations for permanent signs. 20.60.025 Total maximum permanent sign area. 20.60.030 Wall signs — Maximum area and height. 20.60.035 Window signs — Maximum area. 20.60.040 Projecting signs — Maximum area and height restrictions. 20.60.045 Freestanding signs — Regulations. 20.60.050 Wall graphic and identification structures. 20.60.055 Pedestrian signs. 20.60.060 Campaign signs. 20.60.065 Real estate signs. 20.60.070 Construction signs. 20.60.080 Temporary signs. 20.60.090 Prohibited signs. 20.60.095 Exempt signs. 20.60.100 Administration. Page 1/18 20.60.000 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to enact regulatory measures to implement those goals and policies stated in the Edmonds Comprehensive Policy Plan and to achieve the following objectives: A. Protect the public right-of-way from obstructions which would impair the public's use of their right-of-way. B. Minimize the hazard to the public represented by distractions to drivers from moving, blinking, or other similar forms of signage or visual clutter. C. Provide for distinct signage for each distinct property. D. Encourage the use of graphics/symbols to reduce the visual clutter associated with overly large letters or extensive use of lettering. E. Minimize potential for view blockage and visual clutter along public rights -of -way. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.005 Definitions. For the purposes of the enforcement of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply: "Attached sign" is any sign attached or affixed to a building. Attached signs include wall signs, projecting signs, and window signs. "Boxed cabinet sign" is a permanent sign that is mounted on the face of a building that is roughly rectangular in shape and provides for internal illumination and changing the message of the sign by replacing a single transparent or translucent material such as a Plexiglass/Lexan face. This definition is meant to distinguish between a cabinet sign that is essentially a rectangular box and one that follows the outlines of the letters of the sign, or an "outline cabinet sign." "Building ID/historic sign" is a permanent sign that identifies or names a building and assists in creating landmarks in the city. Examples include dates, "1890"; names, "Beeson Building"; or addresses. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 20 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 2/18 "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 f ci , 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. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 21 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 3/18 Z r "Marquee sign" is any sign attached to or made a part of a building marquee. A marquee sign is a form of projecting sign. "Monument signs" are freestanding signs that have integrated the structural component of the sign into the design of the sign and sign base. "Noncommercial sign" is a sign that is intended to display a religious, charitable, cultural, governmental, informational, political, educational, or artistic message, that is not primarily associated with a good, product, or service offered for sale or trade. Noncommercial signs include signs advertising incidental and temporary commercial activities conducted by churches and nonprofit businesses, clubs, groups, associations or organizations. "Off -premises sign" is any sign that advertises or relates to a good, product, service, event, or meeting, that is offered, sold, traded, provided, or conducted at some location or premises other than that upon which the sign is posted or displayed. Off -premises signs include all signs posted or displayed in the public right-of-way. "On -premises sign" is any sign that advertises or relates to a good, product, service, event, or meeting that is lawfully permitted to be offered, sold, traded, provided, or conducted at the location or premises upon which the sign is posted or displayed. On -premises signs also include signs not related to any particular location or premises, such as signs displaying religious, charitable, cultural, governmental, informational, political, educational, or artistic messages that are intentionally displayed by the owner of the property or premises upon which the sign is displayed. "Outline cabinet sign" is a permanent sign that is mounted on the face of a building that roughly follows the shape of the text or symbology of the sign and provides for internal illumination. This definition is meant to distinguish between a cabinet sign that follows the outlines of the letters of the sign and one that is essentially a rectangular box or a "boxed cabinet sign." An "outlined cabinet sign" will be treated more like an "individual letter sign" where the area of the sign is calculated based on the actual outlined shape of the sign. "Permanent sign" is a fixed or portable sign intended for continuous or intermittent display for periods exceeding 60 days in any calendar year. "Pole signs" are freestanding signs where the structural support for the sign is one or more exposed pole(s). Pole signs may include community event banners where the banner is supported by at least two poles that are permanently attached to the ground ("pole -mounted community event banners"). However, pole signs with two poles that are not more than six feet in height are considered to be monument signs. "Portable sign" is any sign that is readily capable of being moved or removed, whether attached or affixed to the ground, or any structure that is typically intended for temporary display. Portable signs include, but are not limited to: 1. Signs designed and constructed with a chassis or support with or without wheels; 2. Pedestrian signs, including signs such as A -frame (sandwich board), stanchion, easel, or post -style signs intended as freestanding signs in pedestrian environments; d E z U Left: Stanchion sign r Q Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 22 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 4/18 3. Wooden, metal, or plastic "stake" or "yard" signs; 4. Posters or banners affixed to windows, railings, overhangs, trees, hedges, or other structures or vegetation, except for pole -mounted community event banners; 5. Signs mounted upon vehicles parked and visible from the public right-of-way, except signs identifying the related business when the vehicle is being used in the normal day-to-day operation of the business, and except for signs advertising for sale the vehicle upon which the sign is mounted; 6. Searchlights; 7. Inflatables. "Premises" is the actual physical area of the lot upon which a sign is posted or displayed. "Projecting sign" is any sign attached or affixed to a building or wall in such a manner that its leading edge extends more than 12 inches beyond the surface of such building or wall. "Reader board sign" is a sign that is designed to allow for a change in the message, either by adding or removing plastic letters, or by means of electronics and lights. Reader boards do not include signs which have a changeable message where the sign does not change more than once per day and where the changeable features are integrated with the background and overall design of the sign, including the sign's typefaces, colors and symbology. Individual letters or numbers placed on a solid colored background is considered to be a reader board. Two signs at left: Acceptable changeable message sign; Two signs at right: A reader board. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 23 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER E ra-4 Page 5/18 SOULAR POWERED BY THE SON EGME IN AND WORSHIP PASTOR REV HARRY H JOHNS 11I "Real estate sign" is a sign displaying a message relating to the sale or rent of real property "Sign" is any structure, device or fixture that is visible from a public place, that incorporates graphics, symbols, or written copy for the purposes of conveying a particular message to public observers, including wall graphics or identification structures. "Sign area" is the area of a sign on which copy is to be placed, as set forth in ECDC 20.60.020(A). "Temporary sign" is a sign intended for short-term display, not to exceed 60 calendar days in any calendar year. Window signs meeting the requirements of ECDC 20.60.035 are not regulated as temporary signs. "Wall graphic" is a wall sign, including murals, in which color and form, and primarily without the use of words, are a part of the overall design on the building(s) where the wall graphic is proposed. A wall graphic may be painted or applied (not to exceed one-half inch in thickness) to a building as a part of its overall color and design, but may not be internally lighted. Internally lighted assemblies, including those which project from the wall of the structure, or which are located on any accessory structure on the site, shall be considered wall signs and comply with the requirements of this chapter. "Wall sign" is a sign that is attached or affixed to a wall and that is parallel to and not projecting more than 12 inches at any angle from such wall. Wall signs include signs that are painted directly upon a wall. "Window sign" is a sign that is attached or affixed to a window, or a sign displayed within 24 inches of the inside of a window in such a manner as to be visible from any public place. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3800 § 1, 2010; Ord. 3631 § 1, 2007; Ord. 3628 § 8, 2007; Ord. 3561 § 1, 2005; Ord. 3514 § 1, 2004; Ord. 3461 § 2, 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. C. A sign modification shall include, but is not limited to, relocations, modifications to size, design, height or color scheme, or the replacement of 25 percent or more of the structural material in the sign area. Normal and ordinary maintenance and repair, and changes to the graphics, symbols, or copy of a sign, without affecting the size, structural design, height, or color scheme, shall not constitute modifications for purposes of this section. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3514 § 2, 2004; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 24 6.A.c Edmonds Page 6/18 Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE 20.60.015 Design review procedures. A. Staff Approval. Except as referred to the architectural design board pursuant to subsection (A)(1) of this section, and except as provided in subsection (B) of this section, the planning manager, or designee, shall review all applications for design review under this chapter, and shall approve, conditionally approve or deny the application in accordance with the policies of ECDC 20.10.000 and the standards and requirements of this chapter; provided, that for murals and artwork the planning manager or designee shall review the application in accordance with the criteria set forth in subsection (C) of this section. The decision of the planning manager on any sign permit application shall be final except that signs reviewed by the architectural design board are appealable to the hearing examiner. 1. The planning manager or designee may refer design review applications to the architectural design board for the types of signs listed below, where the planning manager determines that the proposed sign has the potential for significant adverse impacts on community aesthetics or traffic safety: a. Any sign application for an identification structure as defined by this chapter; b. Any sign application for a wall graphic as defined by this chapter; c. Any proposed sign that the planning manager determines to be obtrusive, garish or otherwise not consistent with the architectural features of the surrounding neighborhood. B. Review by Architectural Design Board. The architectural design board shall review those signs listed in subsection (B)(1) of this section and any sign permit referred by the planning manager pursuant to subsection (A)(1) of this section. 1. The ADB shall review any sign permit application that requests a modification to any of the standards prescribed by this chapter. The ADB shall only approve modification requests that arise from one of the following two situations: a. The request is for signage on a site that has a unique configuration, such as frontage on more than two streets, or has an unusual geometric shape or topography; b. The request is for signage on a building that has unique architectural elements or features or details that substantially restrict the placement or size of signage relative to other buildings in the vicinity. 2. The ADB may approve the requested modification only if it meets the following criteria: a. The design of the proposed signage must be compatible in its use of materials, colors, design and proportions with development throughout the site and with similar signage in the vicinity; b. In no event shall the modification result in signage which exceeds the maximum normally allowed by more than 50 percent. C. Staff Review of Murals and Artwork. When a proposed wall graphic is proposed as a mural or artwork, the planning manager or designee shall review and approve, conditionally approve, or deny the application in accordance with the following criteria. While a separate sign permit is required for each wall graphic, the staff may make a single design review decision on wall graphics that consist of related murals or artwork. Related murals or artwork may include multiple proposals for sites within reasonable proximity to each other that are related by theme, style, materials used, and/or context. The decision of the staff on any design review application containing a mural or art as a wall graphic may be appealed to the city council pursuant to the procedure established in Chapter 20.06 ECDC. 1. Art, like other exercises of First Amendment rights, may be limited by reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions. In this case, these criteria will be utilized to enhance the aesthetics of the city and to ensure quality and maintenance standards are observed. No recommendation shall be based upon the content or message expressed by an artist or in a work of art. Applicants are encouraged to coordinate their artwork with the design or architectural elements of the building and the historic and pedestrian -oriented character of the downtown area. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 25 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE 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; Page 7/18 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), (13), and (C) of this section, sign permit applications shall not be referred to or reviewed by the architectural design board if the proposed sign constitutes a modification to an existing sign and involves no significant alteration or modification to the size, height, design, lighting or color of the existing sign. Sign permit applications for such sign modifications shall be processed and subject to review in the same manner as provided for staff review in subsection (A) of this section. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3800 § 1, 2010; Ord. 3736 § 60, 2009; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.020 General regulations for permanent signs. A. Sign Area. The area of a sign shall be calculated as follows: 1. The area of a sign is maximum actual area of a sign that is visible from any single point of observation from any public vantage point. The sign area is normally the smallest rectangle that encloses the entire copy area of the sign. 2. Individual letters, numbers or symbols applied directly to a wall or structure and used to form the sign shall be calculated individually. 3. Supporting structures which are part of a sign display shall be included in the calculation of the sign area, except that the supporting structure of a monument sign or pole sign shall not be included when calculating the sign area. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 26 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE 14 : X 0 W STORE fi OSo NAME_ 1 Page 8/18 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). B. When located on a wall or mansard roof, no sign may extend above the highest point of the wall or mansard roof when the mansard roof is on a one-story building. Other than a mansard roof on a one-story building, a sign may not be attached above the eave or drip line on a pitched roof. C. Except for pole -mounted community event banners, no sign or any part of a sign may be designed or constructed to be moving by any means and shall not contain items such as banners, ribbons, streamers and spinners. Signs with type that is movable to change the message (reader boards) are allowed, subject to the specific requirements detailed elsewhere in this chapter. D. Signs that extend into or over a public right-of-way shall comply with Chapter 18.70 ECDC. E. Exposed braces and angle irons are prohibited unless they are part of a decorative design that is integral to the design of the sign. Guywires are prohibited unless there are no other practical means of supporting the sign. F. No sign shall have blinking, flashing, fluttering or moving lights or other illuminating device which has a changing light density or color; provided, however, temperature and/or time signs that conform in all other respects to this chapter are allowed. Electronic reader boards may have messages that change; however, moving messages are not allowed. Messages that change at intervals less than 20 seconds will be considered blinking or flashing and not allowed. G. No light source which exceeds 20 watts shall be directly exposed to any public street or adjacent property. H. No illumination source of fluorescent light shall exceed 425 milliamps or be spaced closer than eight inches on center. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 27 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 9/18 I. No commercial sign shall be illuminated after 11:00 p.m. unless the commercial enterprise is open for business and then may remain on only as long as the enterprise is open. J. No window signs above the first floor shall be illuminated. K. Sign height shall be determined as follows: 1. For attached signs, sign height is the vertical distance from the highest point on the sign to the average finished grade. 2. For freestanding signs, sign height is the vertical distance from the highest point of the sign area or its support to the average elevation of the finished grade at the base of the supports. L. Portable signs may not be used as permanent signage; only fixed signs are permitted. M. The following matrix summarizes the types of signs permitted in each neighborhood/district within the city: Sign Type Downtown' SR-99' Westgate/SR-1043 Neighborhood Commercial (BN, BP and FVMU Zones) Business Uses in RM Zones Wall -Mounted P P P P P Monument C P P C C Pole N P N N N Projecting P P P P P Internal Illumination C P P C N Reader Boards C C C C C Individual Letters P P P P P Boxed Cabinet N P C C N Building ID P P P P P Pedestrian P N N N N Wall Graphics C C C C C Downtown includes all properties within the Downtown Activity Center defined in the comprehensive plan. 1 SR-99 includes all properties within the Medical -Highway 99 Activity Center and the Highway 99 Corridor defined in the comprehensive plan. 3 Westgate/SR-104 includes all properties within the Westgate Corridor, the Edmonds Way Corridor, and within the Westgate Community Commercial area, as defined in the Comprehensive Plan. Note: In the above table, P = Permitted; N = Not permitted; C = Conditionally permitted through design review if consistent with the standards itemized in subsection N of this section. N. The following standards clarify how some signs identified as "conditionally permitted" must be installed to be permitted in the city of Edmonds: 1. Monument signs over six feet in height must be reviewed to ensure that the materials, colors, design and proportions proposed are consistent with those used throughout the site. 2. Internally illuminated signs in the downtown area and neighborhood commercial areas may only light the letters or logos/symbols. The background of a sign face may not be illuminated. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 28 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 10/18 3. Internally illuminated signs in the downtown area and the neighborhood commercial areas must be mounted on the wall of the building. They may not be mounted on or under an attached awning. 4. Internally illuminated signs that use exposed neon may only be located in the interior of buildings in the downtown area and the neighborhood commercial areas. 5. Internally illuminated signs in the downtown area shall not be permitted to be higher than 14 feet in height. 6. Reader board messages are limited to alphanumeric messages only. 7. Reader boards are only permitted for public uses or places of public assembly. Public uses and places of assembly include, but are not limited to, schools and churches as well as local and regional public facilities. 8. The background color of a boxed cabinet sign face must be coordinated with and complement the colors used on the building. 9. The background color of a boxed cabinet sign face must be opaque and not allow any internal illumination to shine through. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3631 § 2, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.025 Total maximum permanent sign area. A. Business and Commercial Zone Districts (BN, BP, BC, BD, WMU, CW and CG). 1. The maximum total permanent sign area for allowed or permitted uses in the BN, BC, BD and CW zones shall be one square foot of sign area for each lineal foot of wall containing the main public entrance to the primary building or structure located upon a separate legal lot. 2. The maximum total permanent sign area for allowed or permitted uses in the CG zone shall be one square foot of sign area for each lineal foot of building frontage along a public street and/or along a side of the building containing the primary public entrance to a maximum of 200 square feet. The allowable sign area shall be computed separately for each qualifying building frontage, and only the sign area derived from that frontage may be oriented along that frontage. Sign areas for wall -mounted signs may not be accumulated to yield a total allowable sign area greater than that permitted upon such frontage, except that businesses choosing not to erect a freestanding sign may use up to 50 percent of their allowable freestanding sign area for additional attached sign area. Use of the additional area shall be subject to the review of the architectural design board. 3. The maximum total permanent sign area may be divided between wall, projecting, and freestanding signs, in accordance with regulations and maximum sign area and height for each type of sign, as provided in ECDC 20.60.030 through 20.60.050. Projecting signs (including blade signs) of four square feet or less and window signs meeting the requirements of ECDC 20.60.035 do not count against the total permanent sign area permitted. 4. The maximum number of permitted permanent signs is three per site, or three per physically enclosed business space on commercial sites with multiple business tenants. A site with more than one street frontage is allowed a maximum of five signs. Projecting (including blade) signs of four square feet or less and window signs meeting the requirements of ECDC 20.60.035 do not count against the total number of permitted permanent signs. Multi -tenant sites are allowed one additional group sign per street frontage identifying the individual subtenants at the site. The total sign area of all signs permitted on site must also comply with the maximum total permanent sign area specified in this chapter. 5. Where permitted, pedestrian signs do count against the permanent sign area and the number of signs permitted. Option 1: Modify (5) to state that pedestrian signs do not count against the permanent sign area, or, Option 2: Add to (5) to memorialize Interpretation #2016-1 in the code (see attachment). B. Residential Zone Districts (RS, RM). Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 29 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 11/18 1. The maximum allowable signage area for individual residential lots shall be four square feet per street frontage, except as provided in subsection (13)(2) of this section. 2. The maximum allowable signage area for formal residential subdivisions, planned residential developments (PRD), or multifamily structures containing at least 10 dwelling units shall be 10 square feet per main street entrance into the subdivision or PRD. Only one sign may be provided at each main entrance. 3. The maximum total permanent sign area may be divided between wall and freestanding signs, in accordance with regulations and maximum sign area and height for each type of sign, as provided in ECDC 20.60.030 through 20.60.050. Window signs meeting the requirements of ECDC 20.60.035 do not count against the total permanent sign area permitted. 4. Signage in excess of that provided in subsections (13)(1) and (2) of this section for lawful nonconforming or conditional nonresidential uses in residential zones may be approved through the issuance of a sign permit pursuant to ECDC 20.60.010, subject to the maximum area and height limitations established for signs in the BN zone. 5. The maximum number of permitted permanent signs is one, except that multifamily sites with more than one vehicular entrance may have one permanent sign per entrance. The total sign area of all signs (excluding incidental signs) permitted on site must also comply with the maximum total permanent sign area specified in this chapter. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3805 § 1, 2010; Ord. 3628 § 9, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.030 Wall signs — Maximum area and height. A. The maximum area of any wall sign shall be as follows: Zone Maximum Area of Sign RS, RM 4 square feet BN, BP, BC, BD, CW, CG, WMU, FVMU 1 square foot per lineal foot of attached wall B. The maximum height of any attached sign shall be as follows: Zone Maximum Height of Sign RS, RM 6 feet BN, BP, BC, BD, CW, 14 feet or the height of the face of the CG, WMU, FVMU building on which the sign is located, consistent with ECDC 20.60.020(B) [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3628 § 10, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.035 Window signs — Maximum area. The maximum area of any window sign shall be as follows: Zone Maximum Area of Sign RS, RM 4 square feet BN, BP, BC, BD, CW, CG, WMU, FVMU 1 square foot per each lineal foot of window frontage [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3628 § 11, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.040 Projecting signs — Maximum area and height restrictions. A. The maximum area of any projecting sign shall be as follows: Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 30 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 12/18 Zone Maximum Area of Sign RS, RM Not permitted BN, BP, BC, BD, CW, WMU, FVMU 16 square feet CG 32 square feet B. The maximum height of any projecting sign shall be as follows: Zone Maximum Height of Sign RS, RM Not permitted BN, BP, BC, BD, CW, CG, WMU, FVMU Height of the wall to which the sign is attached C. The sign area of a marquee sign may not exceed two feet in vertical dimension. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3628 § 12, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.045 Freestanding signs — Regulations. A. Regulation. Permanent freestanding signs are discouraged. Freestanding signs shall be approved only where the applicant demonstrates by substantial evidence that there are no reasonable and feasible alternative signage methods to provide for adequate identification and/or advertisement. B. Maximum Area. The maximum area of a freestanding sign shall be as follows: Zone Maximum Area of Sign RS, RM 10 square feet (subdivision, PRD, multifamily) 4 square feet (individual residence sign) BN, BP 24 square feet (single) 48 square feet (group) BC, BD, WMU, 32 square feet (single) FVMU 48 square feet (group) CW 32 square feet (single) 48 square feet (group) CG Sign area shall be governed by subsection (C) of this section C. Allowable Sign Area for Freestanding Signs — CG Zone. The total allowable sign area for freestanding signs on general commercial sites shall be 56 square feet or one-half square foot of sign area for each lineal foot of street frontage, whichever is greater, up to a maximum of 160 square feet of freestanding sign area. Multiple business or tenant sites shall further be allowed an additional 24 square feet of freestanding sign area for each commercial tenant or occupant in excess of one up to a maximum sign area of 160 square feet. Corner lots choosing to accumulate sign area under the provisions of subsection (E) of this section shall be limited to 160 square feet. D. Maximum Height. The maximum sign height of freestanding signs shall be as follows: Zone Maximum Height of Sign RS, RM 6 feet BN, BP, BC, BD, CW, WMU, FVMU 14 feet Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 31 Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Zone Maximum Height of Sign CG 25 feet Page 13/18 E. Location. Freestanding signs shall be located as close as possible to the center of the street frontage on which they are located. Except for pole -mounted community event banners, freestanding signs may not be located on public property. Sites on a corner of two public streets may have one sign on the corner instead of a sign for each frontage. Monument signs not more than six feet in height may be located in a zoning setback, but not less than five feet from a property line. F. Number. In all zones, each lot or building site shall be permitted no more than one freestanding sign, except in the business and commercial zones where a lot or site has frontage on two arterial streets, in which case there may be permitted one sign per street frontage subject to the restrictions on area contained within this chapter. G. Landscaping. 1. Each freestanding sign shall have a landscaped area twice the size of the sign area at the base of the sign. The landscaping and sign base shall be protected from vehicles by substantial curbing. 2. The applicant shall provide a landscape performance bond in the amount of 125 percent of the estimated costs of the landscaping, or $1,000, whichever is more. The bond shall be processed in accordance with Chapter 17.10 ECDC. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3631 § 3, 2007; Ord. 3628 § 13, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.050 Wall graphic and identification structures. There are no area restrictions on wall graphics or identification structures. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.055 Pedestrian signs. Pedestrian signs are only permitted on private property and in the adjacent right-of-way in the BC, BD, CW, and CG zones located within the Downtown Waterfront Activity Center, as defined in the comprehensive plan. Pedestrian signs are only permitted if they meet the following requirements: A. Pedestrian signs may be permitted to be located either (1) between the business storefront and the public right-of-way, or (2) on the sidewalk in front of the business storefront if the pedestrian sign meets the following standards: 1. Only one pedestrian sign is permitted per ground floor storefront; 2. Businesses may make arrangements to rotate their pedestrian signs provided they meet the one sign -per -storefront standard; 3. The sign shall be located within 10 feet of the building entry, unless it is plaeed in a 166mieff that better ubli . pedest ian and • ehie tl . aeeess, and must be placed within two feet of the building. Any deviations from this standard m st be submitted to the ar-ehitee�uFal desig.. board f r- review and aa 3e Error 20 60 ni vnvi ); may be pproved by the Development Services Director if the Director finds that an alternative location in front of the building or on the property occupied by the business is less restrictive to edestrian movement or accessibility. (3. ALTERNATIVE) The sign shall be located within 10 feet of the building entry and must be placed within two feet of the building. The Development Services Director may approve an alternative location under the following circumstances: a. An alternative location in front of the building or on the propertypied by the business is less intrusive to pedestrian movement or accessibility; or b. The building containing the business is set back from the property line and a location on the property can be provided such that the sign does not encroach onto a public sidewalk. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 32 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 14/18 4. A business located on a corner property shall have no more than one pedestrian sign, regardless of the number of streets the business fronts on; 5. If located on or near a sidewalk, building entry or pedestrian way, the sign shall be located to provide a fniflimum Of five feet of ele rareo far pedestrians t l ssclear zone consistent with ECDC 18.70.030(Q; 6. Pedestrian signs cannot be left outside during hours that the business is closed to the public; 7. Pedestrian signs are limited to: a. Six square feet in area, two and one-half feet in width, and three and one-half feet in height for A -frame or sandwich board signs; and b. Six square feet in area, two and one-half feet in width, and four and one-half feet in height for stanchion, easel or other types of pedestrian signs. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016]. 20.60.060 Campaign signs. A. On -premises campaign signs are permitted as a form of temporary signage in all zones, subject to the maximum sign size limitations set forth in ECDC 20.60.080. B. Off -premises campaign signs are permitted as a form of temporary signage in the public right-of-way; provided, that the following requirements are met: 1. All campaign signs shall be posted in accordance with the regulations set forth in ECDC 20.60.080(B). 2. All off -premises campaign signs shall be removed within 10 days after the primary, general, or special election to which they pertain. 3. Off -premises campaign signs shall be posted and displayed no earlier than upon declaration of candidacy in accordance with Chapter 29.15 RCW, or other formal registration or certification of the candidate, party, initiative, referendum or other ballot issue for an upcoming election, or 60 days prior to the election, whichever time period is greater. C. There is no maximum number of off -premises campaign signs that may be posted. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.065 Real estate signs. A. On -premises real estate signs are permitted as a form of temporary signage in residential and commercial zones, subject to the maximum signage area and sign number limitations set forth in ECDC 20.60.080. B. Off -premises real estate signs are permitted as a form of temporary signage, subject to the following requirements: 1. Two and only two types of off -premises real estate signs shall be permitted: a. An off -premises real estate directional sign is a sign displaying a directional arrow and either a company or logo, or an indication that the property is for sale by its owner, and installed for the purpose of directing the public to the property. b. An off -premises open house sign is a form of temporary off -premises sign indicating the property is currently open for viewing. 2. All off -premises real estate signs shall be posted in accordance with the regulations set forth in ECDC 20.60.080(B). 3. The maximum number of off -premises real estate signs allowed per property shall only be the number reasonably necessary to direct people to the premises. An agent or owner shall be permitted no more than one Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 33 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 15/18 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. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.070 Construction signs. Construction signs shall, irrespective of their duration, conform to the general regulations for permanent signs specified under ECDC 20.60.020. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the maximum area of a construction sign in any zone shall be 32 square feet. No sign permit is required for the posting of construction signs; provided, that all construction signs shall be removed from the premises within 10 days of the cessation of the excavation, construction, demolition, rehabilitation, structural alteration or related work on site. Zone Maximum Area of Signage (per Street Frontage) RS 16 square feet, or 32 square feet if one sign is displayed for a project consisting of building permits issued for four lots or more. Only one sign ma be dis la edper project. All other 32 square feet zones The preceding square footages shall be in addition to any other temporary signage permitted by ECDC 20.60.080. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3514 § 3, 2004]. 20.60.075 Governmental Signs Governmental signs, while exempt from the processes and development regulations required by this Chapter, shall be erected and maintained subject to rules and procedures established by the Development Services Director. In all cases, the City retains the right to remove any governmental sign at its sole discretion. 20.60.080 Temporary signs. A. On -Premises Temporary Signs. On -premises temporary signs are permitted in residential and commercial zones, in addition to any allowed or permitted permanent signage, subject to the following restrictions and standards: 1. Residential Zones (RS, RM). a. Only portable, freestanding or attached signs may be used as temporary signage. b. Commercial on -premises temporary signage is not permitted, except for real estate signs as defined by ECDC 20.60.065. c. Maximum number is one attached or freestanding sign. Commercial Zones (13N, BP, BC, BD, WMU, FVMU, CW, CG). Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 34 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 16/18 a. Only attached signs may be used for temporary signage. Attached signs may be affixed to any existing building or sign structure that is permitted as a permanent structure on the property. New temporary structures whose sole purpose is to display the temporary sign are not otherwise permitted. 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 require 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, BP, BC, BD, CW, WMU, FVMU 20 square feet CG 30 square feet 4. The total maximum area for each allowed on -premises temporary sign shall be as follows: Zone Maximum Area of Temporary Sign RS, RM 6 square feet (freestanding and attached) BN, BP, BC, BD, CW, WMU, FVMU 20 square feet (attached) CG 30 square feet (attached) 5. The maximum height of any allowed on -premises temporary sign shall be as follows: Zone Maximum Height of Sign RS, RM 6 feet (freestanding and attached) BN, BP, BC, BD, CW, CG, WMU, FVMU 14 feet (attached) 6. In no case shall temporary signage be posted, located, or displayed in violation of the regulations for permanent signs set forth in ECDC 20.60.020 through 20.60.050. B. Off -Premises Temporary Signage. Off -premises temporary signs are allowed in residential and commercial zones, in accordance with the restrictions and standards set forth below: 1. Commercial off -premises temporary signage is prohibited, except for real estate signs as permitted by ECDC 20.60.065; provided, that such off -premises real estate signs shall be posted, displayed, and removed as provided for in that section, in addition to the provisions of subsections (B)(5) through (9) of this section. 2. Noncommercial off -premises signs are permitted in the public right-of-way; provided, that the posting and display of off -premises signs in the public right-of-way shall require a street use permit where required pursuant to Chapter 18.70 ECDC. 3. Maximum duration of display for all temporary off -premises signs is a cumulative of 60 days in any calendar year, except as otherwise provided in ECDC 20.60.060 for campaign signs. Display may be continuous or intermittent, except as otherwise provided in this section. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 35 6.A.c Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 17/18 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. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3628 § 14, 2007; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.090 Prohibited signs. A. General. All signs not expressly permitted by this chapter are prohibited. B. Hazards. Signs which the director of public works determines to be a hazard to vehicle or water traffic because they resemble or obscure a traffic control device, or because they obscure visibility needed for safe traffic passage, are prohibited. These signs shall be removed if they already exist. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 36 Edmonds Chapter 20.60 SIGN CODE Page 18/18 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. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. 20.60.095 Exempt signs. The following types of signs are exempted from regulations of this chapter, except that the dimensional and placement standards shall apply unless variance is required by other provisions of local, state or federal law: A. Governmen4al signs. HA. Signs required by provision of local, state, or federal law. GB. Official public notices required by provision of local, state, or federal law. DC. Signs not visible from a public location. ED. Seasonal and holiday displays not incorporating the use of written copy or graphics to convey a message. FE. Gravestones. [Ord. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; 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. 4039 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 3461 § 2, 2003]. Edmonds Sign Code Planning Board 2017.02.14 Packet Pg. 37 6.A.d TO: MAYOR EARLING AND CITY COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: JAMIE REECE, CHAIR, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION SUBJECT: RECOMMENDATIONS ON DOWNTOWN PEDESTRIAN SIGNAGE DATE: FEBRUARY 15, 2017 The Edmonds Economic Development Commission has reviewed and discussed ideas regarding the current draft code amendments related to Downtown pedestrian signage (A -boards). In general, we are very supportive of the amendments that respond to genuine concerns on the part of Downtown business owners. Nevertheless, we do have some suggestions that we believe would go the extra mile in striking the right balance between aesthetics and economic vitality: Cost: We believe the cost for a pedestrian (A -board) sign should be no greater than the cost for a blade sign ($75). Sign area: We believe that the code should be amended so that pedestrian signs do not count against overall permitted sign area (same as old code). Location: The EDC believes that there are circumstances and locations where the requirement that pedestrian signs be no more than 2' from the building fagade is not workable (such as where a building is set back from the street behind a parking lot or yard/garden/lawn). In these cases a waiver from this requirement should NOT be required to go to the ADB and cost upwards of $875+. It should be an administrative decision with a much lower fee. What's more, with appropriate maps, site plans and photos, the waiver should be able to be accomplished as part of the sign permit — not a separate review with its associated delay and additional cost. Perhaps there could be examples of various common situations that could be illustrated in a Director's Rule, or some similar administrative vehicle, that would cover the vast majority of such outlying cases that could be referred to by staff for the purpose of the granting the waiver as part of the sign permit. Out -of -Sight Businesses: It was recognized that any relief for businesses that are down side streets will have to be part of an overall signage plan, in collaboration with the BID, and the EDC understands that these discussions are underway. The group is Packet Pg. 38 6.A.d aware that a plethora of poles with flag signs pointing to businesses might be unwieldy, so less obtrusive solutions, such as monument signs with maps or small sign boards, may have to be developed. There was concern that whatever "gang" sign be allowed, that businesses be allowed participation equally and equitably. We are very appreciative that the City recognizes the need to accommodate the genuine identification and advertising needs of Downtown businesses. With some minor modifications, we believe the code will be optimized and work for all parties. Packet Pg. 39 9.A Planning Board Agenda Item Meeting Date: 02/22/2017 Review of Extended Agenda Staff Lead: N/A Department: Planning Division Prepared By: Diane Cunningham Background/History N/A Staff Recommendation Review Extended Agenda Narrative Extended Agenda is attached Attachments: 02-22-2017 PB Extended Agenda Packet Pg. 40 9.A.a Items and Dates are subject to change pLAKIMVW� BOARD ��c. 1890 Extended Agenda February 22, 2017 Meeting Item FEBRUARY 2017 Feb. 22 1. Public Hearing on amendments to sign code on pedestrian signs MARCH 2O17 March 8 1. Comprehensive Plan Performance Report (tentative) March 22 1. Parks & Rec Quarterly Update 2. Comprehensive Plan Performance Report (tentative) APRIL 2017 April 12 1. Retreat (tentative) April 26 1. Public Hearing on Comp. Plan Amendment for proposed change from SF1 to EW (Fraser Fir Tree / AMD20160008) MAY 2017 May 10 May 24 JUNE 2017 June 14 June 28 �a c a� a� a m c as x w 0 3 m m N LO O c m 0� a c m x w m a ti 0 N N N N O a+ C m E U a r r Q Packet Pg. 41 Items ana Dates are 9.A.a to change Pending 1. Community Development Code Re -Organization 2017 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 1. Annual Adult Entertainment Report (January -February as necessary) Topics 2. Election of Officers (VY 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. 42