Subarea Plan LF 2.6 Signs 10-15-09.pdf2.6. si g n a g e re g U l a t i O n s
This section contains standards and guidelines for signage within the Subarea Plan.
They are intended to ensure that signs are consistent with the overall quality and
character of new development anticipated for the corridors. Regulations include
permitted sign types as well as sign size, location, materials, illumination, color,
and design. SVMC 22.110 is only applicable where specifically referenced.
2.6.1. general signage Regulations
The following definitions supplement the definitions set forth in SVMC Appendix
A and are intended to define terms used within this Subarea Plan. The following
standards and guidelines shall apply to all signs, regardless of type.
1) Definitions
1. Animated Sign: An electronic sign that uses movement or the
appearance of movement of a sign display through the use of patterns of
lights, changes in color or light intensity, computerized special effects,
video display, or through any other method, chasing or scintillating
lights, fluttering or moving lights, lights with stroboscopic effect, or
containing elements creating sound or smell. Electronic signs that
scroll a static message, scene or color onto or off a sign board in one
direction per message, are not considered animated signs.
2. Awning: A fabric-covered structure mounted on the face of a building
above a window, entrance, or storefront opening.
3. Canopy: An architectural structure made of permanent materials such as
metal, wood, etc. mounted on the face of a building above a window,
entrance, or storefront opening.
4. Exposed Incandescent Bulb Illumination: The illumination of a sign
by incandescent bulbs which are intended to “spell out” letters and
numerical characters and/or provide graphic accents, are mounted
directly to the face of the sign, and whose light-emitting surfaces are
fully visible.
5. Exposed Neon Tube Illumination: The illumination of a sign by neon
tubes which are intended to “spell out” letters and numerical characters
and/or provide graphic accents, are mounted directly to the face of the
sign, and whose light-emitting tubes are directly visible.
6. Exposed LED Illumination: The illumination of a sign by use of Light
Emitting Diode (LED) sources which are intended to “spell out” letters
and numerical characters and/or provide graphic accents, are mounted
directly to the face of the sign, and whose light emitting surfaces are
directly visible.
7. External Illumination: The illumination of a sign by projecting light on
to the face of the sign from a light source located outside of the sign,
such as “gooseneck” lamps; light sources are shielded from direct view.
8. Halo Illumination: The illumination of a sign by projecting light behind
an opaque letter or emblem onto the backing panel which results in the
appearance of “halo” of light around the letter or emblem; light sources
are shielded from direct view.
9. Internal Illumination: The illumination of a sign by projecting light
through translucent panel(s) from a light source within an enclosed sign
cabinet.
10. Illuminated Open Channel Letters: The use of letter-shaped forms
to create lettering within a sign which are individually enclosed on the
sides and back, are open at the vertical front, and contain light sources
to illuminate the letter-shaped volume.
11. Sign Type: A distinct physical form of sign in terms of configuration,
placement, orientation, and size, independent of message content.
12. Valance: The vertical front face of a fabric awning, parallel to the face
of the building to which it is mounted.
13. Window Area: Any window pane or group of window panes contained
entirely within glazing separators (muntins, mullions, piers, columns,
etc.) of one and one quarter (1 ¼ ) inches or greater in width. Multiple
window panes divided by glazing separators less than one and one
quarter (1 ¼ ) inches in width shall be considered to be a single window
area.
2) Standards
1) Sign types shall be permitted according to District Zone, as indicated in
the Signage Regulations Chart - Figure 2.6.
2) In the event that a sign falls under more than one sign definition found
within this Section, the more restrictive sign regulations shall apply.
3) Temporary Signs not listed in this section shall be permitted in the Plan
Area per the requirements of the SVMC Title 22.110.050.
4) “Prohibited Signs,” noted in the SVMC Title 22.110.020 are not
permitted, unless expressly indicated for specific sign types and district
zones indicated in this section.
5) “Permit Required” noted in the SVMC Title 22.110.030 indicates
requirements for sign permits. Unless otherwise noted, a sign permit is
required for all types listed in this section.
6) Sign Area Calculation: unless otherwise noted, sign areas for single and
multiple-sided signs shall be calculated as described in the SVMC Sign
Regulations Section 22.110.100, items 2, 3 and 4.
7) Sign Area Maximum – Building Mounted Signs:
(a) The total square footage of building mounted signs permitted in any
Subarea Plan zone district shall not exceed 15% of the wall area.
Tenant spaces shall be calculated individually. Building mounted
signs to be calculated include, Wall Signs, Roof Signs, Awning
Valance Signs, Above Awning Signs, Above Canopy Signs, Canopy
Fascia Signs, Recessed Entry Signs and Window Signs. See Section
2.6.2 for maximum size standards for individual signs.
8) Signs shall not display animation unless otherwise noted, except
standard barber poles and time and temperature signs.
9) Animated signs are permitted as follows:
(a) In the Gateway Commercial Center and Gateway Commercial
Avenue Zones.
(b) Anywhere along Sprague Avenue EXCEPT in City Center District
Zone (animated signs are prohibited in the City Center District
Zone).
10) Non-animated electronic signs are permitted in all district zones,
including scrolling “alpha-numeric” signs, time and temperature signs.
11) Commercial messages which identify, advertise, or attract
attention to a business, product, service, or event or activity
sold, existing, or offered elsewhere than upon the same property
where the sign is displayed are expressly prohibited.
12) All issues not specifically addressed herein shall be addressed
pursuant to the SVMC Title 22.110 Sign Regulations.
13) In the event of a conflict between this Section and any other
City code, the provisions of this Section shall apply.
14) Monument and freestanding signs shall not obscure any fire fighting
appliance, including but not limited to fire hydrants, fire connections, etc.
15) Signs shall not obstruct the clear view triangle or points of ingress/egress.
16) Billboards shall be regulated by Section 22.110.130 SVMC,
EXCEPT that relocated billboards are prohibited within the City
Center District Zone. Further, in all other zones within the Subarea
Plan billboards may be constructed only on Sprague Avenue.
3) Guidelines
1) In general, natural construction materials such as wood, metals, ceramic,
glass, and stone should be used for visible components of signs. Synthetic
materials should only be used if they are designed to be indistinguishable
from the recommended natural materials, or if they have a secondary or
minor visual presence. Materials subject to yellowing from light exposure
or age such as polycarbonate should not be used.
2) Internally illuminated “can” signs consisting of rectangular enclosures
with large translucent plastic sign faces should not be used. If used, one
of the following treatments should be applied:
(a) A sheet metal or opaque sign surface with letters cut out so that only
letter shapes or outlines are illuminated from within by translucent
surfaces;
(b) Or, a color scheme of translucent panels with dark colored
background with light colored letters.
3) Recommended exposed and non-exposed illumination (light source)
types include incandescent, halogen, neon, warm-white encapsuled
compact fluorescent, warm-white encapsuled induction lamps, and LED
light sources. Exposed spiral-tube compact fluorescent, fluorescent
tube, metal halide, and cold-cathode light sources should only be used
for non-exposed illumination, i.e. where lamps are shielded from view.
High pressure sodium and low pressure sodium light sources are not B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 67
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
recommended due to their color. The use of energy-efficient illumination
sources is encouraged.
4) For legibility, contrasting colors should be used for the color of the
background and the color of the letters or symbols. Light letters on a dark
background or dark letters on a light background are most legible.
5) Colors or color combinations that interfere with the legibility of the sign
copy should be avoided. Too many colors can confuse the message of a
sign.
6) Fluorescent colors should not be used as predominant colors in permanent
signs or on their structural supports (except as required for municipal
traffic and public safety signs). When fluorescent colors are used as part
of temporary signage, they should be limited to ten (10) square feet of
sign area per façade per establishment.
7) Sign design, including color, should be appropriate to the establishment,
conveying a sense of what type of business is being advertised.
8) The location of all permanent signs should be incorporated into the
architectural design and composition of the building. Placement
of signs should be considered an integral part of the overall facade
design. Locations should be carefully composed and align with major
architectural features.
9) Storefront signage should help create architectural variety from
establishment to establishment. In multi-tenant buildings, signage should
be used to create interest and variety.
10) All signs (including temporary signs) should present a neat and aligned
appearance.
11) All signs (including temporary signs) should be constructed and installed
utilizing the services of a professional sign fabricator.
B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 68
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
Main
5th
3rd
B
1st
1st
6th
M o o r e
M
o
o
r
e
Bal
f
o
u r
D a r t m o u t h
E a s t e r n
H o u k B e s t
n
He
r
ald
He ra
ld
Gir
ar d
C o n k l i n
Co n k l i n
Si ppl
e
W
il
b
u
r
Vis
t
a
V ist
a
Pin
e
s
Hu
t
c
h
i
n
s
o
n
W i l l o w C r e s t
Shelley La
S h e l l e y
Lak e
F ar r
F a rr
W i l b u r
E lla
R o t c h f o r d
S ulli
v
a
n
A d a m s
S a r ge
nt
Pa r k
Ra
y
m
o
n
d
L oc
u
st
B
l
a
k
e
Bla
ke
Un
i
v
e r sit
y
B ow
d
i
s
h
Ar g on
n
e
B an
n
e
n
He acox
6th
7th
Wa
l
n
ut
Alki
Springfield
1st
Springfield
4th
3rd
Sun
d
e
r
l
a nd
S p e a r
Nixon
7th
Riverside
Main
Olive
Nixon Nixon
D art
m o uth
B oli
v
a
r
6th
5th
Va n Mar
t
e r
3rd
M off
itt
Per
r
i n e
Olive
Riverside
Bat
es
U n i o n
Clin
t
on
McC
ab
e
5th
Ti m b e rl a n e
Riverside R
Sk ipw
or th
Springfield
S on
o
r
a
Alki
V erc
l
er
Springfield
Un ion
Wil
b
u
r
Fo
x
V irg
in
i
a
B u r n s
L e ta
Alki
Nixon
Main
M a m e r
5th
Sun
d
e
r
l
a
n
d
6th
Nixon
7th
Springfield
S o m m e r
3rd
B e s t
5th
Cal
v i n
1st
C a nn
e
r y
Main
L u c i l l e
Wh
i
p
p
l
e
M
a
m
e
r
B a n n e n
6th
7th
M ay
he
w
V i r g i n i a
7th7th
3rd
B u r n s
S t C h a r l e s
Ho
u
k
5th
Springfield
Riverside
Dic
k
R ob
i
e
Ho
uk
Nixon
L ea
t
ha
Olive
Springfield
Alki
Mallon
Mor
r
o
w
Ver
c
l
e
r
S kip
w
or th
L
6th
Spruce
Birch
C a l v i n
W a r r e n
Riverside Mc Ca be
Valleyway
R ees
Her
a
l
d
Fe
l t s 7th
M u l l a n
G l e n n
St
C
harles
6th
Dy
e
r
Nixon
Alki
2nd
2nd
Valleyway
R a ym
o nd6th M a m e r
B o li v a r
Main
Do
l
l
a
r
O be rli
n
Van
M art
e
rNixon
H e ra
l
d
Main
Dav
i
d 3rd
Fo
x
1st
P ie
rce
ern
3rd
Bra
d
l
e
y
6th
E liz
abe
t
h
6thPerrin
e N e w e r
Fo
x
W o odl
aw
n
G len
n
1st
C a l vi n
7th
Alki
d
Dor
a
2nd
Bo
l
i
v
a
r
C ol l in s
Springfield
C ole
m
a
n
M es a
Bur
n s
Dy
e
r
3rd
Gil
l
i
s
Pi erc
e
8th e e s
Sk
i
p
w
o
r
t
h
Alki
5th S o n o r a
2nd
La
u
r
a
M ar gue
r
ite
Mor r o w
Da le
Sa rg
e n t
B o l i v a r
6th
Dy
e
r
6th
2nd
Valleyway
Mo
r
r
o
w
Wo
o
d
r uf f
2nd
Nixon
Wh
i
p
p
le
7th
Alki
El ton
G
l
e
n
n
Bo
g u e
R e e s
AlkiAlki
Main
Alki
5th
Main
5thMoo
r
e
B et le n
Riverside
Nixon
Dish
m
an
3rd
Riceland
5th
Olive
y
Ho u k
Un
i
o
n
Valleyway
W i llo
w
B e s t
P r o g r e s s
I 90 Alki
Main
Main
H ou
k
N e w e r
Eas
t
e
r
n
7th
E v e r g r e e n
M off
i
tt
Sprague
4th
Harrington
Appleway
Main
3rd
2nd
Broadway
I 9 0
1st 1st
Valleyway
Be s si e
Valleyway
Fe
l
t
s
8th 8th
Thi
e
r
m
a
n
M c D on
a
ld
4th
R
ailro
a
d
T
r
a
c
k
s
Arg
o
n
n
e
Mu
l
l
l
a
n
F ig .2.6. si g n a g e re g U l a t i O n s cH a r t
Fig.2.1. District Zones map
Core Streets Non-Core Streets
1 - Grand Projecting Sign permitted ---permitted ---------permitted
2 - Marquee Signs permitted permitted permitted permitted ------permitted
3 - Wall Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted
4 - Roof Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted ---permitted permitted
5 - Monument Sign ---permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted
6 - Freestanding Sign ---------permitted ---permitted permitted
7 - Blade Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
8 - Projecting Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
9 - Awning Face Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
10 - Awning Valance Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
11 - Awning Side Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
12 - Above Awning Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
13 - Under Awning Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
14 - Canopy Fascia Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
15 - Above Canopy Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
16 - Under Canopy Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
17 - Recessed Entry Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
18 - Window Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted restricted permitted permitted
19 - Time and Temperature Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted ---permitted permitted
20 - Building Identification Canopy Fascia Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted
21 - Building Identification Wall Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted
22 - Building Identification Window Sign permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted permitted
23 - Temporary Signs
Legend:
Permitted: These signs are allowed, by right, as indicated.
2.6. SIGNAGE REGULATIONS
2.1.1. City Center 2.1.2.
Neighborhood
Center
2.1.District Zones
Restricted: Signs are restricted to corner stores only.
--- : Not Permitted
2.1.3. Mixed-Use
Avenue
2.1.4. Community
Boulevard
See SVMC Chapter 22.110 for temporary sign regulations
2.1.5. Gateway
Commercial
Avenue
2.1.6. Gateway
Commercial
Centers
B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 69
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
2.6.2 sign type Regulations
A property’s permitted sign types are determined by its District Zone as shown on
the Figure 2.6 Signage Regulations Chart. Specific restrictions are noted on the
chart for particular combinations of District Zone and Sign Type. For the purposes
of this plan, the following Sign Types are established (see the summary illustration
of Sign Types on the following pages):
1) Grand Projecting Sign
2) Marquee Sign
3) Wall Sign
4) Roof Sign
5) Monument Sign
6) Freestanding Sign
7) Blade Sign
8) Projecting Sign
9) Awning Face Sign
10) Awning Valance Sign
11) Awning Side Sign
12) Above Awning Sign
13) Under Awning Sign
14) Canopy Fascia Sign
15) Above Canopy Sign
16) Under Canopy Sign
17) Recessed Entry Sign
18) Window Sign
19) Time and Temperature Sign
20) Building Identification Canopy Fascia Sign
21) Building Identification Wall Sign
22) Building Identification Window Sign
23) Temporary Signs
Standards and Guidelines for each Sign Type are listed on the pages that follow.
1 2
4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11
3
B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 70
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
2.6.2. sU m m a r y O F si g n ty p e s
12 13 14 15
16 17 18 20
2221
B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 71
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
1) Grand Projecting Sign
Grand Projecting Signs are tall, vertically oriented signs which project from the
building perpendicular to the façade and which are structurally integrated into the
building.
a) Standards
i) Only one (1) Grand Projecting Sign shall be permitted per
establishment.
ii) The area of Grand Projecting Signs shall not count towards the total
permitted sign area of building mounted signs.
iii) Grand Projecting Signs shall be no taller than thirty (30) feet from the
bottom-most part of the sign to the tallest part of the sign.
iv) Only the following types of establishments may use animation on Grand
Projecting Signs: night clubs, movie theaters, and live performance
theaters with a capacity of 200 persons or greater. When used, animation
shall consist of flashing or chase lights only; light sources shall be of
incandescent, neon, or LED type only. Flashing xenon strobe lights and
rotating lights shall not be permitted.
v) Grand Projecting Signs shall project no more than six (6) feet from the
façade of the building.
vi) No portion of a Grand Projecting Sign shall be lower than twelve (12)
feet above the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over
which it projects.
vii) Letter width shall not exceed two-thirds (2/3) of the sign width.
viii) No portion of a Grand Projecting Sign shall extend more than ten (10)
feet above the roofline.
b) Guidelines
i) As prominent landmark features, the position of Grand Projecting Signs
should be architecturally composed relative to important features of the
building’s façade design – for example, located symmetrically within
the façade, or aligned with the primary entrance.
ii) Exposed materials used in Grand Projecting Signs should be metal and
paint only.
iii) Grand Projecting Signs should be illuminated by exposed neon tube
illumination, exposed incandescent bulb illumination, and/or LED
illumination only.
iv) Letters should be oriented right-side-up and stacked in a single upright
row with the first letter being at the top of the sign and the last letter
being at the bottom.
2) Marquee Sign
Marquee Signs are large, canopy-like structures mounted over the entrance to a
theater that include one or more readerboards.
a) Standards
i) Marquee Signs shall be permitted only at movie theatres, live performance
theatres, or night clubs - with a capacity of 200 persons or greater.
ii) Marquee Signs shall only be located directly above the primary public
entrance of the theatre.
iii) Only one (1) Marquee Sign shall be permitted per establishment.
iv) The area of Marquee Signs shall not count towards the total permitted
sign area of building mounted signs.
v) Marquee Signs shall have no more than three (3) faces. The total area of
all faces of a marquee sign shall not exceed five hundred (500) square
feet.
vi) Marquee Signs may use animation of sign lighting. When used, animation
shall consist of flashing or chase lights only; light sources shall be of
incandescent, neon, or LED type only. Flashing xenon “strobe” lights
and rotating lights shall not be permitted.
vii) Marquee signs shall project no more than twelve (12) feet from the façade
of the building.
viii) No portion of a Marquee Sign shall be lower than eight (8) feet above
the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over which it
projects.
b) Guidelines
i) Exposed materials used in Marquee Signs should be metal and paint
only, with the exception that plastic may be used for reader boards.
ii) Marquee Signs should be illuminated by exposed neon tube illumination,
exposed incandescent bulb illumination, and/or LED illumination only,
with the exception that reader boards may use internal illumination.
1) grand projecting sign
2) marquee signBO
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 72
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
3) Wall Signs
Wall Signs are signs which are located on, and parallel to, a building wall.
a) Standards
i) Wall Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses with a
dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) Wall Signs shall only be mounted on a wall area below the second floor
level. Exception: Wall Signs may mounted above the second floor level
on an architectural tower configured to display wall signs.
iii) No Wall Sign shall exceed one hundred fifty (150) square feet in size.
iv) Only the following types of establishments are permitted to use animated
Wall Signs, and only below the second floor level: night clubs, movie
theaters, and live performance theaters - with a capacity of greater
than two hundred (200) persons. When used, animation shall consist
of flashing or chase lights only; light sources shall be of incandescent,
neon, or LED type only. Flashing xenon strobe lights and rotating lights
shall not be permitted.
v) Wall Signs shall project no more than fifteen (15) inches from the façade
of the building.
vi) Menu or Menu Case Wall Signs: discrete wall-mounted signs or sign
cases containing restaurant menus:
(1) Shall be mounted at the ground floor façade of a restaurant or café with
indoor or outdoor seating.
(2) Shall be limited to the size of two (2) pages of the menu utilized by the
restaurant plus the frame.
(3) Shall not protrude more than three (3) inches from the façade. Lettering
shall not exceed one (1) inch in height.
(4) Shall not exceed one sign or sign case per façade.
(5) Shall not count towards the total sign area permitted based on the Linear
Frontage Ratio.
(6) Shall be illuminated by indirect illumination only.
vii) Barber poles:
(1) Any barber shop shall be entitled to display one (1) barber pole in
addition to other permitted signs.
(2) Barber poles may be internally illuminated and may be mechanically
rotated.
(3) Shall not count towards the total sign area permitted based on the Linear
Frontage Ratio.
b) Guidelines
i) Exposed materials used in wall signs should be wood, ceramic, metal,
and paint only. Exception - movie theaters or live performance theaters
with a capacity of greater than two hundred (200) persons may use
plastic for reader boards. Wall signs may also be painted directly onto
the façade of the building or inscribed into the façade of the building.
ii) Wall signs should be illuminated by external, exposed neon tube, exposed
incandescent bulb, exposed LED, or halo illumination only. Internally
illuminated can signs with large translucent plastic panels should not be
used.
iii) Where individual letters are used, letters should be three dimensional,
created by raised letter forms mounted to the building façade or sign
panel, or by incised openings cut out from the sign panel.
3) Wall sign
B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 73
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
5) monument sign
4) Roof sign
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
4) Roof Signs
Roof Signs are signs which are erected on a roof or atop a parapet wall, and are
completed supported by the building.
a) Standards
i) Roof Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses with a
dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) Roof Signs shall not exceed a maximum height of four (4) feet above the
eave of the roof, but in no case shall any part of the sign be higher than
the peak of the roof.
iii) No Roof Sign shall exceed forty (40) square feet in size.
iv) Roof Signs shall not project beyond the façade of the building.
b) Guidelines
i) Exposed materials used in Roof Signs should be wood, metal, and paint
only.
ii) Roof Signs should be illuminated by external, halo, or exposed neon
tube illumination only. Internally illuminated can signs with large
translucent plastic panels should not be used.
5) Monument Signs
Monument Signs are signs which are mounted on the ground and are flush or
have a clearance from the ground of not more than two (2) feet, and supported
by a solid base, one or more uprights, braces, columns poles, or similar structural
components.
a) Standards
i) Monument Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential or
multifamily residential uses with a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) The maximum number of Monument Signs per parcel is one (1) per
arterial street frontage.
iii) Monument Signs shall not have more than two (2) faces.
iv) Monument Signs shall not exceed a maximum height of six (6) feet above
grade. Exception: for Residential Boulevard District Zones, Monument
Signs shall not exceed a maximum height of four (4) feet above grade.
v) The maximum area of a Monument Sign for permitted District Zones
shall be as follows:
(1) City Center – Non-Core Streets: thirty-two (32) square feet.
(2) Neighborhood Center: seventy-five (75) square feet (parcels with a
single business) or 90 square feet (multi-business complex)
(3) Gateway Commercial Avenue: seventy-five (75) square feet (parcels
with a single business) or ninety (90) square feet (multi-business
complex)
(4) Gateway Commercial Center: seventy-five (75) square feet (parcels with
a single business) or ninety (90) square feet (multi-business complex)
(5) Community Boulevard: thirty-two (32) square feet.
vi) Signs shall be landscaped per SVMC 22.70.
vii) Signs must be out of the Clear view triangle.
b) Guidelines
i) The architectural design of a Monument Sign should be an extension of
the building’s architecture, or strongly complementary to the building’s
architecture in form, materials, and color.
ii) Exposed materials used in Monument Signs should be wood, metal,
stone, brick, concrete (including precast and GFRC), and/or paint.
Plastics should not be used.
iii) Monument Signs should be illuminated by external or halo illumination
only. Internally illuminated can signs with large translucent plastic
panels should not be used.
B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 74
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
6) Freestanding Signs
Freestanding Signs are permanently mounted signs not attached to a building, in
which signs are constructed on or are affixed to the ground by columns, poles, or
similar structural components.
a) Standards
i) Freestanding Signs shall only be permitted along Sprague Avenue for
non-residential uses with a dedicated ground floor entrance, within
permitted District Zones indicated on the Signage Regulation Chart
2.6.
ii) The maximum number of Freestanding Signs per parcel is one (1).
iii) The maximum height of a Freestanding Sign for permitted District
Zones shall be as follows:
(1) Mixed Use Avenue: twenty (20) feet.
(2) Gateway Commercial Avenue: thirty (30) feet (single business) or forty
(40) feet (multi-business complex).
(3) Gateway Commercial Center: thirty (30) feet (single business) or forty
(40) feet (multi-business complex) or fifty (50) feet (parcels abutting
I-90).
iv) The maximum area of a Freestanding Sign for permitted District Zones
shall be as follows:
(1) Mixed Use Avenue: one hundred (100) square feet.
(2) Gateway Commercial Avenue: one hundred (100) square feet.
(3) Gateway Commercial Center: one hundred (100) square feet (single
business) or two hundred and fifty (250) square feet (multi-business
complex, or parcels abutting I-90). Where three (3) or more businesses
agree to share a single sign structure, an additional twenty (20) percent
of sign area shall be allowed up to a maximum of two hundred and fifty
(250) square feet.
v) Sign location: Freestanding Signs with structural supports less than two
(2) feet in width, with copy area placed at a height of seven (7) feet or
more above grade, may be located at the property line, outside of the
clear view triangle (SVMC 22.70). Freestanding signs with structural
supports of more than two (2) feet shall be set back not less than ten (10)
feet from the front property line or border easement.
vi) Signs shall be landscaped per SVMC 22.70.
vii) A single unornamented pole support design topped by a can sign typical
of a commercial strip shall not be used.
b) Guidelines
i) A Freestanding Sign should have an articulated architectural character
and well–crafted details.
(1) At a minimum, design treatment or ornamentation of structural supports
as a decorative composition (for example, featuring columns, struts,
braces, fittings, caps, decorative frames, etc.) together with decoratively
framed sign panels is recommended.
(2) Alternatively, a Freestanding Sign should have an internal structural
support within an architectural tower type of design, featuring a base,
shaft, and top.
ii) The architecture and composition of a Freestanding Sign structure should
provide visual interest and detail at both automotive and pedestrian-scale
speed and perception.
iii) The architectural character, materials, and colors of a Freestanding Sign
are recommended to be an extension of or complementary to those from
the primary building(s).
iv) Exposed materials used in Freestanding Signs should be wood, metal,
stone, brick, concrete (including precast and GFRC), and/or paint.
v) Freestanding Signs should be illuminated by external, halo, exposed neon
tube, or exposed LED illumination. Internally illuminated can signs with
large translucent plastic panels should not be used.
6) Freestanding sign
Note: Portable menu signs not permitted anywhere in the City
B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 75
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
7) Blade Signs
Blade Signs are signs which are oriented perpendicularly to the building façade
and which are suspended under a bracket, armature, or other mounting device.
a) Standards
i) Blade Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses with a
dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) Blade Signs shall only be mounted on the wall area below the second
floor.
iii) No Blade Sign shall exceed sixteen (16) square feet in size.
iv) Blade Signs shall project no more than four (4) feet from the façade of
the building.
v) No portion of a Blade Sign shall be lower than eight (8) feet above
the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over which it
projects.
vi) The area of Blade Signs shall not count towards the total permitted sign
area of building mounted signs.
b) Guidelines
i) Exposed materials used in Blade Signs should be wood, metal, and paint
only.
ii) Blade Signs should be illuminated by external illumination only.
8) Projecting Signs
Projecting Signs are cantilevered signs which are structurally affixed to the
building and oriented perpendicularly to the building façade.
a) Standards
i) Projecting Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses with a
dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) Projecting Signs shall only be mounted on wall area below the second
floor level.
iii) No Projecting Sign shall exceed sixteen (16) square feet in size.
iv) Projecting Signs shall project no more than four (4) feet from the façade
of the building.
v) No portion of a Projecting Sign shall be lower than eight (8) feet above
the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over which it
projects.
vi) The area of Projecting Signs shall not count towards the total permitted
sign area of building mounted signs.
b) Guidelines
i) Exposed materials used in Projecting Signs should be wood, metal, and
paint only.
ii) Projecting Signs should be illuminated by external illumination, exposed
neon tube illumination, exposed incandescent bulb illumination, exposed
LED illumination, or halo illumination. Internally illuminated can signs
with large translucent plastic panels should not be used.
iii) Projecting Signs incorporating a distinctive shape relating to the business
are recommended, as well as signs utilizing three-dimensional and well
crafted designs.
7) Blade sign
8) projecting signBO
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 76
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
9) Awning Face Signs
Awning Face Signs are signs applied to the primary face of an awning, including
sloped awning faces and vertical box awning faces.
a) Standards
i) Awning Face Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses with
a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) Awning Face Signs shall not exceed twenty (20) percent of the area of
the awning face.
iii) Awning Face Signs shall project no farther from the building than its
associated awning.
iv) No portion of an Awning Face Sign shall be less than eight (8) feet
above the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over which
it projects.
b) Guidelines
i) Awning Face Signs should consist of vinyl or paint applied directly to
the awning.
ii) Awning materials should be canvas or nylon; plastic should not be
used.
iii) Awning Face Signs should be illuminated by external illumination
only.
10) Awning Valance Signs
Awning Valance Signs are signs applied to the awning valence.
a) Standards
i) Awning Valance Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses
with a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) Lettering for Awning Valance Signs shall include one (1) line of lettering
not to exceed two-thirds (2/3) the height of the valance or twelve (12)
inches, whichever is less.
b) Guidelines
i) Awning Valance Signs should consist of vinyl or paint applied directly to
the awning.
ii) Awning materials should be canvas or nylon; plastic should not be
used.
iii) Awning Valance Signs should be illuminated by external illumination
only.
11) Awning Side Signs
Awning Side Signs are signs applied to the side panel of an awning.
a) Standards
i) Awning Side Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses with
a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) The area of Awning Side Signs shall not count towards the total permitted
sign area for building mounted signs.
iii) Lettering for Awning Side Signs shall not exceed twelve (12) inches in
height with total sign area not to exceed twenty (20) percent of the area
of the awning side area.
iv) Awning Side Signs shall project no farther from the building than its
associated awning.
v) No portion of an Awning Side Sign shall be less than eight (8) feet
above the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over which
it projects.
b) Guidelines
i) Awning Side Signs should consist of vinyl or paint applied directly to
the awning.
ii) Awning materials should be canvas or nylon; plastic should not be
used.
iii) Awning Side Signs should be illuminated by external illumination only.
11) Awning side sign9) Awning Face sign 10) Awning valance sign B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 77
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
12) Above Awning Signs
Above Awning Signs are signs which are mounted above the upper edge of a
valance of an awning and oriented parallel to the building wall surface.
a) Standards
i) Above Awning Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses
with a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) Above Awning Signs shall not exceed one and one-half (1 ½) times the
valance height, and width shall not exceed two-thirds (2/3) of the awning
width.
iii) Above Awning Signs shall project no farther from the building than its
associated awning.
iv) No portion of an Above Awning Sign shall be less than eight (8) feet
above the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over which
it projects.
v) Lettering for Above Awning Signs shall include one (1) line of lettering
only.
b) Guidelines
i) Materials used in Above Awning Signs should be wood, metal, and paint
only.
ii) Above Awning Signs should be illuminated by external illumination
only.
13) Under Awning Signs
Under Awning Signs are signs which are suspended under an awning, perpendicular
to the building facade.
a) Standards
i) Under Awning Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses
with a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) Under Awning Signs must be located adjacent to a public entrance from
a City sidewalk.
iii) No more than one (1) Under Awning Sign shall be permitted per
establishment per façade.
iv) The area of Under Awning Signs shall not count towards the total sign
area permitted based on the Linear Frontage Ratio.
v) No Under Awning Sign shall exceed three (3) square feet in size.
vi) Under Awning Signs shall project no farther from the building than its
associated awning.
vii) No portion of an Under Awning Sign shall be less than eight (8) feet
above the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over which
it projects.
b) Guidelines
i) Materials used in Under Awning Signs should be wood, metal, and paint
only.
ii) Under Awning Signs should be illuminated by external illumination
only.
14) Canopy Fascia Signs
Canopy Fascia Signs are signs that are mounted to the front or side fascia of
a canopy, contained completely within that fascia, and oriented parallel to the
building wall surface.
a) Standards
i) Canopy Fascia Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses
with a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) The height of Canopy Fascia Signs shall not exceed two-thirds (2/3) the
height of the fascia or twelve (12) inches, whichever is less.
iii) The width of Canopy Fascia Signs shall not exceed two-thirds (2/3) of
the canopy width.
iv) Canopy Fascia Signs shall project no farther from the building than its
associated canopy.
v) No portion of a Canopy Fascia Sign shall be less than eight (8) feet
above the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over which
it projects.
vi) Canopy Fascia Signs shall consist of only one (1) line of lettering
articulated as individual letters mounted directly to the canopy.
b) Guidelines
i) Materials used in Canopy Fascia Signs should be metal and paint only.
ii) Canopy Fascia Signs should be illuminated by external, halo, exposed
LED, or exposed neon tube illumination only.
14) Canopy Facia sign12) Above Awning sign 13) under Awning signBO
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 78
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
15) Above Canopy Sign
Above Canopy Signs are signs which are mounted partially or entirely above the
front fascia of a canopy and oriented parallel to the building wall surface.
a) Standards
i) Above Canopy Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses
with a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) The height of Above Canopy Signs shall not exceed one and one-half (1
½) times the height of the fascia or twenty-four (24) inches whichever is
less.
iii) The width of Above Canopy Signs shall not exceed two-thirds (2/3) of
the canopy width.
iv) Above Canopy Signs are permitted only above the front fascia of a
canopy.
v) Above Canopy Signs shall project no farther from the building than its
associated canopy.
vi) No portion of an Above Canopy Sign shall be less than eight (8) feet
above the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over which
it projects.
vii) Lettering for Above Canopy Signs shall include only one (1) line of
lettering using individual letters only.
b) Guidelines
i) Exposed materials used in Above Canopy Signs should be wood, metal,
and paint only.
ii) Above Awning Signs should be illuminated by external, halo, exposed
neon tube, exposed incandescent bulb, or exposed LED illumination
only.
16) Under Canopy Sign
Under Canopy Signs are signs which are suspended under a canopy, perpendicular
to the building facade.
a) Standards
i) Under Canopy Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses
with a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) No more than one (1) Under Canopy Sign shall be permitted per
establishment per façade.
iii) Under Canopy Signs must be located adjacent to a public entrance from
a City sidewalk.
iv) The area of Under Canopy Signs shall not count towards the total
permitted sign area for building mounted signs.
v) Under Canopy Signs shall not exceed three (3) square feet in area.
vi) Under Canopy Signs shall project no farther from the building than its
associated canopy.
vii) No portion of an Under Canopy Sign shall be less than eight (8) feet
above the level of the sidewalk or other public right-of-way over which
it projects.
b) Guidelines
i) Exposed materials used in Under Canopy Signs should be wood, metal,
and paint only.
ii) Under Canopy Signs should be illuminated by external illumination
only.
iii) Under Canopy Signs incorporating a distinctive shape relating to the
business are encouraged, as well as signs utilizing three-dimensional
and well-crafted designs.
17) Recessed Entry Signs
Recessed Entry Signs are signs which are oriented parallel to the building façade
and which are suspended over a recessed entry.
a) Standards
i) Recessed Entry Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses
with a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) No Recessed Entry Sign shall exceed twenty (20) square feet in size.
iii) Recessed Entry Signs shall not project beyond the façade of the
building.
iv) No portion of a Recessed Entry Sign shall be lower than eight (8) feet
above the level of the sidewalk.
b) Guidelines
i) Exposed materials used in Recessed Entry Signs should be wood, metal,
and paint only.
ii) Recessed Entry Signs should be illuminated by external illumination
only.
17) Recessed entry sign15) Above Canopy sign 16) under Canopy sign B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 79
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
18) Window Signs
Window Signs are signs which are applied directly to a window or mounted or
suspended directly behind a window.
a) Standards
i) Window Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential uses with a
dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) Window Signs shall be permitted on windows below the second floor
level only.
iii) No more than fifteen (15) percent of any individual window area shall be
covered or otherwise occupied by signage.
iv) The letter height of each Window Sign shall not exceed twelve (12)
inches.
b) Guidelines
i) Ground floor Window Signs should consist of gold or silver leaf, vinyl, or
paint applied to the glass, neon mounted or suspended behind the glass,
or framed and mounted paper signs. For metallic leaf or vinyl signs, a
drop shadow behind letters is recommended to increase visibility.
ii) If illuminated, Ground floor Window Signs should be illuminated by
exposed neon tube illumination only.
19) Time and Temperature Signs
Time and Temperature Signs display time with a dial clock face or a light-emitting
digital display, and temperature with a light-emitting digital display.
a) Standards
i) Time and Temperature Signs shall only be permitted for non-residential
uses with a dedicated ground floor entrance.
ii) One time and/or temperature sign shall be permitted per business.
iii) Time and temperature signs shall occur as or be incorporated as part of
one of the following permitted sign types listed within this section:
(1) Grand Projecting Signs.
(2) Marquee Signs.
(3) Wall mounted Signs.
(4) Monument Signs.
(5) Freestanding Signs.
(6) Blade Signs.
(7) Projecting Signs.
iv) Time and temperature signs shall not include other digital displays or
animation.
b) Guidelines
i) Time and Temperature signs should be illuminated by external, internal,
exposed incandescent, exposed LED, and/or exposed neon tube
illumination only.
18) Window sign
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 80
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
20) Building Identification Canopy Fascia Signs
Building Identification Canopy Fascia Signs are signs which are mounted to
the front or side fascia of a canopy, contained completely within that fascia and
oriented parallel to the building wall surface and which announce the name of a
building.
a) Standards
i) Building Identification Canopy Fascia Signs shall only be permitted for
non-residential or multifamily residential uses with a dedicated ground
floor entrance.
ii) Building Identification Canopy Fascia Signs shall be located only on
the fascias of a canopy above the primary building entrance and shall be
located entirely within the canopy fascia.
iii) Only one (1) canopy per façade may have Building Identification Canopy
Fascia Signs.
iv) The area of Building Identification Canopy Fascia Signs shall not count
towards the total permitted sign area for building mounted signs.
v) Building Identification Canopy Fascia Signs shall not exceed one (1)
line of lettering not to exceed two-thirds (2/3) the height of the fascia or
twelve (12) inches, whichever is less.
vi) Building Identification Canopy Fascia Signs shall project no farther from
the building than its associated canopy.
vii) No portion of a Building Identification Canopy Fascia Sign shall be less
than eight (8) feet above the level of the sidewalk or other public right-
of-way over which it projects.
viii) Lettering for Building Identification Canopy Fascia Signs shall include
only one (1) line of lettering using individual letters only.
b) Guidelines
i) Building Identification Canopy Fascia Signs should consist of metal
letters, vinyl or paint applied to a canopy, or may be inscribed into the
canopy.
ii) Building Identification Canopy Fascia Signs should be illuminated by
external illumination or halo illumination only.
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
20) Building Identification Canopy
Fascia sign
21) Building Identification Wall sign
B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 81
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
21) Building Identification Wall Signs
Building Identification Wall Signs are signs located on and parallel to a building
wall that announce the name of a building.
a) Standards
i) Building Identification Wall Signs shall only be permitted for non-
residential or multifamily residential uses with a dedicated ground floor
entrance.
ii) Building Identification Wall Signs shall be located only on the frieze,
cornice, or fascia area of storefront level; frieze, cornice, fascia, parapet
of the uppermost floor; or above the entrance to main building lobby.
iii) Only one (1) building identification wall sign shall be permitted per
building per street-facing façade.
iv) The area of Building Identification Wall Signs shall not count towards
the total permitted sign area for building mounted signs.
v) Building Identification Wall Signs shall be no taller than twenty-four
(24) inches in height.
vi) Building Identification Wall Signs shall project no more than one (1) foot
from the façade of the building.
b) Guidelines
i) Building Identification Wall Signs should be inscribed into the façade,
painted onto the façade, or constructed of individual metal letters.
ii) Building Identification Wall Signs should be illuminated by external
illumination or halo illumination only.
22) Building Identification Window sign
2.6.2. si g n ty p e s
B O
O
k
ii
:
D
e
v
e
l
O
p
m
e
n
t
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
pa g e 82
s i
g
n
a
g
e
r e
g
u
l
a
t
i
O
n
s
22) Building Identification Window Signs
Building Identification Window Signs are signs applied directly to a window or
mounted or suspended directly behind a window.
a) Standards
i) Building Identification Window Signs shall only be permitted for non-
residential or multifamily residential uses with a dedicated ground floor
entrance.
ii) Building Identification Window Signs shall only be located on a transom
window above a primary entrance, or the glazed area of primary door.
iii) Only one (1) Building Identification Window Signs shall be used per
building per street-facing façade.
iv) The area of Building Identification Window Signs shall not count towards
the total permitted sign area for building mounted signs.
v) No more than twenty-five (25) percent of any individual window area
shall be covered or otherwise occupied by signage.
vi) The letter height of each Building Identification Window Sign shall not
exceed twelve (12) inches and must be taller than four (4) inches.
b) Guidelines
i) A Building Identification Window Sign should consist of gold or silver
leaf, vinyl or paint applied to the glass only.
ii) Ground floor Window Signs should consist of gold or silver leaf, vinyl, or
paint applied to the glass, neon mounted or suspended behind the glass,
or framed and mounted paper signs. For metallic leaf or vinyl signs, a
drop shadow behind letters is recommended to increase visibility.
iii) A Building Identification Window Sign should be illuminated by external
illumination only.
23) Temporary Signs
See SVMC Chapter 22.110 for temporary sign regulations.