Agenda 06/13/2013 p CITY ne
Valle
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Spokane Valley Planning Commission Agenda
City Hall Council Chambers, 11707 E. Sprague Ave.
June 13, 2013 6:00 p.m.
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
III. ROLL CALL
IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: May 23, 2013
VI. PUBLIC COMMENT: On any subject that is not on the agenda.
VII. COMMISSION REPORTS
VIII. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
IX. COMMISSION BUSINESS
A. OLD BUSINESS:
1. CONTINUED DELIBERATIONS: CTA-2013-0004, Sign Code Amendments
B. NEW BUSINESS:
1. STUDY SESSION: CTA-2013-0005, Outdoor Lighting Standards
X. FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER
XI. ADJOURNMENT
COMMISSIONERS CITY STAFF
BILL BATES -CHAIR JOHN HOHMAN,CD DIRECTOR
KEVIN ANDERSON MARTY PALANIUK,PLANNER
CHRISTINA CARLSEN
ROBERT MCCASLIN ERIC LAMB, DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY
STEVEN NEILL
JOE STOY-VICE CHAIR CART HINSHAW,SECRETARY
MIKE PHILLIPS WWW.SPOKANEVALLEY.ORG
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Planning Commission Action
Meeting Date: June 12th, 2013
Item: Check all that apply: ❑ consent ® old business ❑ new business
❑ public hearing ❑ information ❑ admin.report ❑ pending legislation
FILE NUMBER: CTA-2013-0004
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Continued Deliberations —Amendment to the Spokane Valley Municipal
Code
DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSAL: A city initiated text amendment to amend Spokane Valley Municipal
Code (SVMC) 22.100, Sign Regulations-minor updates to sign regulations including number and type of
temporary signs and permit submittal requirements.
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: RCW 36.70A.106; SVMC 17.80.150 and 19.30.040
PREVIOUS ACTION TAKEN: Chapter 22.110, Sign Regulations, was amended by City Council on
April 24,2012 (Ordinance No. 12-013).
BACKGROUND: On April 24,2012, City Council adopted significant changes to the City's signage
regulations. The changes being proposed here are minor in nature and address concerns raised by
business owners since the adoption of the updated regulations. The Planning Commission conducted a
study session on these proposed changes on March 28,2013 and public hearings on April 11,2013 and
May 23,2013.
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Move to recommend approval of CTA-2013-0004,
minor changes to the signage regulations.
STAFF CONTACT:
John Hohman-Community Development Director
ATTACHMENTS:
A. Staff Report and Findings CTA-2013-0004
B. Proposed changes to Chapter 22.110
CTA-2013-0004 RPCA for Continued Deliberations
ATTACHMENT A
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
PLANNING DIVISION
Sjökane
alle STAFF REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION TO THE
PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT DATE: March 19,2013
HEARING DATE AND LOCATION: April 11th, beginning at 6:00 p.m., Spokane Valley City Hall Council
Chambers, Valley Redwood Plaza Building, 11707 East Sprague Avenue, Suite 101, Spokane Valley,
Washington 99206.
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: A city initiated text amendment to amend Spokane Valley Municipal Code
(SVMC) 22.100, Sign Regulations- minor updates to sign regulations including number and type of
temporary signs and permit submittal requirements.
PROPONENT: City of Spokane Valley Community Development Department, 11707 E Sprague Ave,
Suite 106, Spokane Valley,WA 99206
APPROVAL CRITERIA: Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan, Spokane Valley Municipal Code (SVMC)
Title 17 General Provisions.
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATION: The Planning Division recommends the Planning Commission
approve the proposed amendment as put forth.
STAFF CONTACT: John Hohman, Community Development Director, Community Development
Department
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1: Proposed text amendment to SVMC 22.110
A. BACKGROUND INFORMATION
1. APPLICATION PROCESSING: SVMC Chapter 17.80, Permit Processing Procedures. The
following summarizes application procedures for the proposal.
Process Date
Pre-Application Meeting: N/A
Application Submitted: N/A
Determination of Completeness: N/A
Published Notice of Public Hearing: 3/29/2013 and 4/5/2013
Sent Notice of Public Hearing to staff/agencies: 3/28/13
Staff Report and Recommendation CTA-2013-0004
2. PROPOSAL BACKGROUND: On April 24,2012,City Council adopted significant changes to the
City's signage regulations.
The changes being proposed here are minor in nature and address concerns raised by business
owners since the adoption of the updated regulations.
B. FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS SPECIFIC TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE TEXT
AMENDMENT
1. Compliance with Title 17(General Provisions) of the Spokane Valley Municipal Code
a. Findings:
SVMC 17.80.150(F)Municipal Code Text Amendment Approval Criteria
i. The City may approve Municipal Code Text amendment,if it finds that
(1) The proposed text amendment is consistent with the applicable provisions of the
Comprehensive Plan;
Staff Comment: The proposed amendment is consistent with the applicable policies
of the Comprehensive Plan:
LUP-14.3: Establish standards for the scale and intensity of commercial, retail and
industrial signage that protect views and minimize signage clutter while allowing
adequate business identification.
EDG-7-Maintain a regulatory environment that offers flexibility, consistency,
predictability and clear direction.
EDP-7.2-Review development regulations periodically to ensure clarity, consistency
and predictability.
(2) The proposed amendment bears a substantial relationship to the public health, safety,
welfare, and protection of the environment;
Staff Comment: Public health, safety and welfare are furthered by providing sign
regulations that respect the purposes of signs from the perspective of the community
and business. The amendment recognizes business need to advertise, while
preserving an attractive commercial environment for the public.
b. Conclusion(s):
The proposed text amendment is consistent with the approval criteria contained in the SVMC.
(3) Finding and Conclusions Specific to Public Comments
a. Findings:
No public comments have been received to date.
b. Conclusion(s):
Public noticing has not been initiated for CTA-2013-0004 as of this date.
(4) Finding and Conclusions Specific to Agency Comments
a. Findings:
No agency comments have been received to date.
Page 2 of 3
Staff Report and Recommendation CTA-2013-0004
b. Conclusion(s):
No concerns are noted.
C. OVERALL CONCLUSION
The proposed code text amendment is consistent with the Comprehensive Plans policies and goals.
D. STAFF RECOMMENDATION
The Planning Division, after review and consideration of the applicable approval criteria,
recommends approval of the proposed sign code updates
Page 3 of 3
Chapter 22.110
SIGN REGULATIONS
Sections:
22.110.010 Purpose,intent and scope.
22.110.020 Prohibited signs.
22.110.030 Permit required.
22.110.040 Number,general regulations for permitted permanent signs.
22.110.050 Permitted temporary signs.
22.110.060 General provisions applicable to all signs.
22.110.070 Comprehensive sign plan.
22.110.080 Aesthetic corridors.
22.110.090 Sign location and front setbacks.
22.110.100 Sign area calculation.
22.110.110 Maintenance of signs.
22.110.120 Existing nonconforming signs.
22.110.130 Billboards.
22.110.010 Purpose,intent and scope.
Signage regulations are intended to promote commerce,traffic safety and community identity while improving the
visual environment of residential,commercial and industrial areas.This code regulates permanent,temporary,and
portable signs.(Ord.07-015 §4,2007).
22.110.020 Prohibited signs.
The following signs are prohibited:
A. Signs which by coloring,shape,wording or location resemble or conflict with traffic control signs or devices;
B. Signs that create a safety hazard for pedestrian or vehicular traffic;
C.Flashing signs;
D.Portable signs; except A-frame signs and reader boards specifically allowed pursuant to SVMC 22.110.050(_A1)
and(E);
E. Signs located within the public right-of-way,except official signs and except bus benches placed pursuant to an
agreement with the City;
F. Signs attached to or placed on a vehicle or trailer parked on public or private property;provided,that this
provision shall not be construed as prohibiting the identification of a business or its product on a vehicle operating
during the normal course of business;
G. Signs obstructing visibility within any clearview triangle as established in Chapter 22.70 SVMC;
H.Billboards except when permitted as provided in SVMC 22.110.130;
I.Off-premises signs,except off-premises directional signs allowed pursuant to SVMC 22.110.040(D);
J.Temporary signs unless specifically allowed pursuant to SVMC 22.110.050;
K.Abandoned signs and sign structures.(Ord. 12-013 § 1,2012;Ord.07-015 §4,2007).
22.110.030 Permit required.
A.Other than for those uses listed in subsection(B)of this section,a sign permit is required for all allowed
permanent signs,temporary signs,unless otherwise specified,and billboards.
B.Permits are not required for on-premises official signs;seasonal decorations;merchandise displays;point-of-
purchase advertising displays;national and state flags;flags of a political subdivision;notice signs,inflatables;flags
with copy;reader boards;temporary signs as listed in 22.110.050 pennants and streamers without advertising copy;
symbolic flags of nonprofit institutions dedicated to public service;legal notices required by law;barber poles;
historic site designations;commemorative monuments/plaques;gravestones;advertising copy affixed to phone
booths;donation and recycling containers;lettering or symbols applied directly onto or flush-mounted magnetically
to a motor vehicle operating in the normal course of business;political signs supporting political issues,candidates
or ballot measures;replacement of copy on signs otherwise permitted;name plates with less than four square feet of
copy area;directional signs with less than four square feet of copy area;and murals containing no copy.
C.Permit applications shall include a site plan that provides the following information:
1.The location of the affected lot,building(s)and sign(s);
2.The scale of the site plan;
3.The location of all existing signs for the subject applicant including size and height:A scaled drawing of
the proposed sign or sign revision,including size,height, copy, structural footing details,method of
attachment and illumination;
4.For signs subject to spacing regulations,the location of neighboring signs on adjacent propertiesThe
location of all existing signs on the site including size and height;
5.Approved sign plan,if applicableFor signs subject to spacing regulations,the location of neighboring
signs on adjacent properties,and
6.Tax parcel number where proposed sign will be located.Approved sign plan,if applicable; and
7. Tax parcel number where proposed sign will be located. (Ord. 12 013 § 1,2012; Ord. 09 010 § 1,2009;
Ord. 07 015 § 1,2007).
D. Permit applications shall include construction drawings that provide the following information:
1. Two complete sets of scaled drawings of the proposed sign or sign revision,including copy,structural
footing details;method of attachment and illumination. A Washington State licensed engineer's design,
stamp and signature is required on each construction drawing for signs over 30 feet in height,pole and
monument signs over 100 square feet in sign area regardless of height,flag signs over 10 feet in height
regardless of sign area and wall signs where it is determined the size and weight of the sign is a factor on
the structural integrity of the building or structure. Where special conditions exist for any type of sign,the
Building Official is authorized to require additional construction documents to be prepared by a
Washington State licensed engineer and/or special inspections if deemed necessary.
22.110.040 Number,general regulations for permitted permanent signs.
A.Permitted permanent signs shall comply with the requirements of Table 22.110-1.No more than the maximum
numbers of either freestanding pole signs or monument sign structures are allowed per parcel.
Table 22.110-1—Location,Height and Copy Area Requirements
Maximum
Copy Copy Side
Zoning Number Copy Area Area Yard Permit Additional
Land Use Height
District per Area (ft�)/Lot (ft2)/Lot Setback Required Provisions
(ft.)
Parcel (ft2) Frontage Frontage (ft.)
<100 ft. > 100 ft.
Attached Wall Signs
I I I
One sign up to 20
Multifamily Complex All Zones * * * * * *
sq.ft.
Residential *25%of wall
Institutional' * * * n/a n/a n/a Y
Zones area
Residential
Single Business 1 n/a 60 n/a n/a n/a Y
Zones
All Mixed Use
and *25%of wall
Nonresidential * n/a n/a n/a n/a
Nonresidential area per building
Zones
Freestanding Signs
Subdivision/Area *One per 200 ft.
Name/Multifamily All Zones 1* 10 32 n/a n/a n/a 1' of street frontage
Complex/Institutional' and 1 for each
Single Business Neighborhood 1 20 100 n/a n/a 5 y additional 200 ft.
Multi-Business Business(NC) or fraction
1* 20 n/a 100 n/a 5 Y
Complex Zones thereof in
Single Business 1* 30 n/a 100 200 5 y nonresidential
zones.Additional
signs allowed on
a multi-business
Mixed Use
complex site may
and
all be free-
Multi-Business Nonresidential
1* 40 250 n/a n/a 5 Y standing;
Complex Zones(except additional signs
NC)
allowed on a
single business
parcel shall be
monument signs
All
Nonresidential *Adjacent to I-90
Nonresidential 1 50 250 n/a n/a 5 Y
Freeway* only
Zones
"NM Monument Signs
Subdivision/Area
Name/Multifamily All Zones 1 10 32 n/a n/a n/a Y
Complex/Institutional'
*Per street
Single Business Neighborhood 1* 7 75 n/a n/a 5 Y frontage
Multi-Business Business(NC)
Complex
Zones 2* 7 90 n/a n/a 5 Y
Single Business All Mixed Use 2* 7 90 n/a n/a 5 Y
and *Per street
Multi-Business Nonresidential 2* frontage
2 7 150 n/a n/a 5 y g
Complex Zones
k Other Signs i lirm.11111 —1
Directional All Zones n/a n/a 4 n/a n/a n/a N
Name Plates All Zones 1 n/a 4 n/a n/a n/a N
1.Institutional includes nonprofit,religious or public uses,such as a church,library,public,or private school,hospital,or
government owned or operated building,structure,or land used for public purposes.
B.In addition to the permanent signs allowed pursuant to Table 22.110-1,a single decorative emblem(or standard)
constructed of durable vinyl with a thickness of not less than 13 mil for every 50 feet of frontage shall be allowed.
The lowest horizontal member of the bracket shall be located at a height of not less than seven feet above the
adjacent grade.
C.Where three or more single businesses agree to share a single sign structure,an additional 20 percent of copy area
shall be allowed up to a maximum of 250 square feet.
D.Off-Premises Directional Signs.It is the intent of this subsection to allow the limited placement of off-premises
directional signs by co-locating on an existing conforming monument sign,freestanding sign,or building wall.The
A business locating placing this type of sign on an existing sign must shall conform to the following criteria:
1.The business must shall be located on a private easement or local access street;
2.The business and proposed sign must shall be located in a commercial,office,industrial or mixed zone
area;
3.Text shall be limited to the business name,logo,and a directional arrow and may include certain
advancing language as"next right";
4.The sign must shall be located on the nearest collector or arterial.If a business has double frontage, staff
will review this unique situation to determine if two directional signs are warranted;
5. Sign area is-shall be limited to 15 square feet;this shall not be construed to allow the on-premises sign
to increase its sign area;and
6.If the business using an off-premises directional sign leaves its location,the business must shall remove
the sign within 60 days.
7.If the site has no existing signage or buildings,then a freestanding sign meeting the requirements above
may be allowed.(Ord. 12-013 § 1,2012;Ord.09-010§ 1,2009;Ord.07-015 §4,2007).
22.110.050 Permitted Ttemporary signs.
Except as otherwise described under this section,no permit is necessary for temporary signs.Temporary signs are
not allowed to continually advertise goods, services or events on a site;permanent signs shall be used for that
ptwpas-
A.A temporary sign advertising a special event, sale,promotion,opening of a new business or opening of a business
under new management may be displayed and must be removed at end of use, event or condition.
AB.Number of Temporary Signs.No more than two of the followingene seen signs shall be allowed at any one
time for a use,except as permitted in subsection E below:
1. One Banner,or
2. One Reader board,or
3. One Flag with copy
BC.Each signSignage shall be limited to 32 square feet in size.
D.All temporary signs must be made of durable materials and shall be well maintained. Signs are not well
maintained if they are frayed,torn, or broken,or the legibility thereof has materially deteriorated.Unmaintained
signs will be required to be removed.
E.Banner signs must be attached to the facade,wall or window of the building which includes the business which
they advertise.
CF.Additional banners or temporary signs advertising a special event,sale,promotion,opening of a new business or
a business under new management,including banners,balloons,pennants,flags with copy,streamers,seachlights
and inflatables are allowed by temporary permit for a period of time not to exceed 60 days a maximum of two times
in any calendar year.
G.Pennants,balloons, and streamers may be displayed in conjunction with the special event signage allowed in
subsection F of this section,but must be removed at the conclusion of the event or within 60 consecutive days.
Dll.Temporary signs shall not endanger the public safety and shall be removed or relocated if the building official
determines that a sign is unsafe.
El.A-Frame Signs. Each bgusiness will be allowed a maximum of one sandwich board or A-frame sign.These
signs are in addition to other temporary signs allowed through subsections A through Hand C of this section,and are
subject to the following conditions:
1. Size.The area of the sign shall not exceed nine square feet per side in size and shall not exceed three
feet in any dimension.
2.Maintenance Standards. Signs shall be constructed out of materials able to withstand extreme weather
conditions. Such materials may be metal,finished wood,chalkboard,whiteboard or plastic. Signs and
copy should be of professional quality.Permanent lettering for the business name and logo are required on
the sandwich boards.Owners of sandwich board signs shall be required to keep their signs in an intact,
reasonably legible,and well maintained manner. Sandwich boards are not well maintained if any part
thereof is broken;letters or graphics are completely or partially missing or obstructed;or the legibility
thereof has materially deteriorated.
3.Display Time. Signs may only be displayed during business hours.If business hours continuelf the sign
is displayed past daylight hours,precautions should be taken to place the sign in a lighted area.This shall
not be construed to allow the wiring of a sign for lighting.
4.Location. Signs shall not be placed in a location which is within the clearview triangle,as defined in
SVMC 22.70.020(C),or any other location which will impede vehicular traffic.Further,such signs shall
not be placed in a manner which will block or otherwise obstruct the safe use of sidewalks,building
entrances or stairs by pedestrians.
F4.Temporary on-premises commercial signs are allowed without permit when posted in conjunction with the
alteration,construction,sale or lease of real property. Such signs shall not exceed 16 square feet in copy area or
seven feet in height.All such signs shall be affixed to either the ground or a permanent structure by rope,wire,or a
mechanical device.
G .Open House/Directional Signage.A-frame signs may be used as open house/directional signs and shall be
allowed on each access street to the property. Signs shall be placed so as not to interfere with vehicular or pedestrian
traffic,shall be used only when the property is open for inspection,shall be unlit,and shall be limited in size to five
square feet and limited in height to three feet above grade.(Ord. 12-013 § 1,2012;Ord.07-015 §4,2007).
22.110.060 General provisions applicable to all signs.
A.All signs illuminated with exterior lighting shall have lighting confined to the sign,and positioned and shielded
to minimize impacts to the surrounding area(s).Gooseneck reflectors and lights are permitted on permanent
freestanding and wall signs;provided,that lighting or glare does not extend beyond the property line.
B.Electronic signs shall be permitted on the same basis as other signs,subject to the requirements of Table 22.110-
1.All electronic message centers(EMCs)are required to have automatic dimming capability that adjusts the
brightness to the ambient light at all times of the day and night.Written documentation that the EMC is equipped
with the automatic dimming device shall be submitted with the sign permit application.
C.A roof-mounted sign may be substituted for an allowed freestanding sign;provided,that the height of the sign
structure may not exceed the maximum height requirements of the zoning district in which the sign is located.
D. Signs located within the airport hazard area shall conform to the location and height regulations set forth in
SVMC 19.110.030,Airport Hazard Overlay zone.
E.No sign shall be erected,relocated or maintained in a manner that prevents the free ingress or egress from any
door,window or fire escape.
F.No sign shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape except official signs.
G.Any sign erected or maintained within five feet of public rights-of-way shall be smooth and free of nails,tacks
and wires.
H.All signs shall be maintained in good repair pursuant to SVMC 22.110.110.
I.No sign shall block the view of fire protection equipment from approach.(Ord. 12-013 § 1,2012;Ord.07-015 §4,
2007).
22.110.070 Comprehensive sign plan.
Commercial development,shopping centers,industrial parks,mixed use developments,and hotel conference centers
exceeding five acres in size may seek approval of a sign plan specific to the proposed development.The director
may approve a comprehensive sign plan that allows deviations from the strict interpretation of spacing,height and
area requirements when the following is demonstrated:
A.The plan provides adequate signage for all proposed uses;and
B.The plan limits the number of freestanding sign structures;and
C.The total copy area of all signage does not exceed the amount which would otherwise be permitted.
Any conditions imposed to secure approvals shall be binding on the applicant,his successors and assigns.
Modifications/amendments to the approved sign plan shall require reapplication and approval by the director.If the
applicant and director cannot come to an agreement as to a comprehensive sign plan or a modification/amendment to
the same,the director's decision may be appealed to the hearing examiner pursuant to Chapter 17.90 SVMC.(Ord.
07-015 §4,2007).
22.110.080 Aesthetic corridors.
A.The standards applicable to monument signs shown on Table 22.110-1 shall apply to parcels adjacent to aesthetic
corridors designated in the Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan:
1. State Route 27(16th Avenue south to City limits);
2. State Route 27(Mansfield Avenue to Trent Avenue);
3.Appleway Boulevard(south side only from Park Road to Dishman Mica Road);
4.Appleway Avenue(Barker Road to Hodges Road);
5.Dishman Mica Road(8th Avenue south to City limits);
6. 32nd Avenue within the City limits;
7.Mirabeau Parkway(Pines Road to Indiana Avenue).
B.Only monument signs as shown on Table 22.110-1 shall be allowed with designated aesthetic corridors.(Ord.07-
015 §4,2007).
22.110.090 Sign location and front setbacks.
A.Monument signs exceeding three feet in height shall be setback 10 feet from the front property line and outside
any border easement;provided,that the requirements of Chapter 22.70 SVMC,Fencing, Screening and
Landscaping,(clearview triangles)have been met.
B.Freestanding signs with structural supports less than two feet in width,with copy area placed at a height of seven
feet or more above grade,may be located at the property line;provided,that the requirements of Chapter 22.70
SVMC,Fencing,Screening and Landscaping,(clearview triangles)of the Spokane Valley ttnifefm
d° Muncipal-eCode have been met.Freestanding signs with structural supports of more than two feet shall
be set back not less than 10 feet from the front property line or border easement.
C.All temporary signs,except inflatable signs,shall be located at least five feet from public rights-of-way.
D.Inflatable signs shall be set back at least 10 feet from public rights-of-way.
E.All signs shall meet the vertical and horizontal clearance requirements of electric utilities.
F.All new freestanding signs shall be located in a landscaped area in accordancecomply with SVMC 22.70.030(J).
Landscaping should ensure that signs are not blocked or obscured by trees or bushes. (Ord. 07 015 § 1,2007).
22.110.100 Sign area calculation.
A. Sign area for wall signs shall be no more than 25 percent of the two-dimensional area of a building's elevation,
excluding eaves and gables.Refer to Table 22.110-1.
L PETE'S PRO GOLF
_-_.
.--.
----
Figure 22.110-1
SIGN
Maximum Height
Minim Lim Height
lir
Prwery
Line
Figure 22.110-2
II
4 ra,xsr,inI-N gh1
ScFDp_Y,
q—
Prep my Lm
Figure 22.110-3
B.The sign area of a freestanding sign for a single business shall be calculated as shown in Figure 22.110-2.The
sign area of a freestanding sign identifying multiple businesses shall be computed by adding together the total
area(s)of all signs as shown in Figure 22.110-3.Refer to Table 22.110-1 for minimum and maximum height
requirements.
C.The sign area for multiple-sided signs shall be calculated as follows:
1.The total sign area for a two-sided sign shall be calculated using a single surface of a sign with
messages on both sides;
2.The sign area for a three-sided sign shall be the sum of all surfaces where two or more signs share a
single structure;
3.The gross surface area of both faces of a V-shaped sign;
4.The copy area of a monument sign.
D.For irregularly shaped signs,the sign area is calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of the sign by no more
than four rectangles.The sum of the area of the rectangles shall be the gross surface area.The maximum allowable
area is reduced by 10 percent for the second and each subsequent rectangle used in the calculation,illustrated below.
8
A
-slue
D
1.Conventional Measurement.Total area=a times b.
2. Sum of Rectangles.Total area=(Area A+Area B+Area C+Area D). (Ord. 07-015 §4,2007).
22.110.110 Maintenance of signs.
A.All signs shall be maintained in good repair.The director shall have the authority to revoke any permit for signs
that are tattered,torn,faded or otherwise in disrepair,and may require the removal of banners,flags,reader boards,
pennants and streamers which are torn,discolored or in disrepair.
B.All signage shall be maintained by the business owner,or person in possession of the property on which the sign
is located.Maintenance shall be such that the signage continues to conform to the conditions imposed by the sign
permit.
C.Any damaged sign structure shall be repaired within 30 days of notice.
D.Any signage which has been damaged to such extent that it may pose a hazard to passersby shall be repaired or
removed within 48 hours of notice.
E.Any abandoned sign shall be removed by and at the expense of the property owner within 60 days of notice.
F.Any abandoned sign support structure shall be removed within 36 months by the owner or lessee of the premises
upon which the sign is located.(Ord.07-015 §4,2007).
22.110.120 Existing nonconforming signs.
Any permanent sign made nonconforming as a result of the adoption of these regulations may be repaired,but not
structurally altered or made more nonconforming in any way.If the sign is removed in order to make repairs,it shall
be replaced within 60 days,or any nonconforming rights are terminated.Thereafter,the sign shall conform to the
requirements of this chapter.
Notwithstanding other provisions of this section,any sign or signs for which a temporary permit has been issued by
the City shall be permitted to remain at the location or locations authorized by the permit for as long as the permit is
valid and all the requirements of the permit have been met.(Ord.07-015 §4,2007).
22.110.130 Billboards.
A.New billboards shall be prohibited;provided,however,that existing billboards may be replaced at another
location with a structure and copy area of equal or smaller size in mixed use and nonresidential zoning districts
except(NC)Neighborhood Commercial zoning districts as follows:
1.Replacement billboards shall not exceed the height limit in the underlying zoning district,with a
maximum height limit of 50 feet in any zone;
2.No replacement billboard shall exceed 672 square feet in copy area;
3.Any replacement billboard may not be placed less than five feet from the property line.No portion of
the sign shall extend beyond the property line;
4.No billboard may be located within 1,000 feet of another billboard on the same side of the street.Any
replacement billboard shall be offset from any billboard on the opposite side of the street by not less than
250 feet.Offset distance shall be measured from a point perpendicular to and along the alignment of the
roadway;
5.The owner of the billboard shall file a complete inventory of all billboards located within the City,
including date erected,height,size and location;
6.Issuance of a permit for billboard replacement shall be accompanied by a permit for the destruction or
removal of the billboard to be replaced;and
7.Any billboard that is not replaced within 5 years64-menths following the issuance of a
demolition/removal permit shall not be replaced.
B.Replacement billboards shall not be permitted along designated aesthetic corridors.(Ord. 07-015 §4,2007).
Home LIL
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Planning Commission Action
Meeting Date: June 13,2013
Item: Check all that apply: ❑ consent ❑ old business ® new business
❑ public hearing ❑ information ® admin.report ❑ pending legislation
FILE NUMBER: CTA-2013-0005
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Study session—Amendment to the Spokane Valley Municipal Code
DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSAL: A city initiated text amendment proposing to amend Spokane
Valley Municipal Code (SVMC) 22.60 to streamline the outdoor lighting standards by eliminating the
watts per square foot lighting limit, eliminating redundant provisions, eliminating the requirement for a
photometric plan, adding a requirement for a lighting plan, more clearly addressing outdoor recreation
facility lighting and adding two additional exemptions.
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: RCW 36.70A.106; SVMC 17.80.150 and 19.30.040
PREVIOUS ACTION TAKEN: None.
BACKGROUND: The proposed amendment addresses the following areas in the SVMC:
1. Eliminates redundant references to the Washington State Energy Code;
2. Eliminates the watts per square foot standard as a means to limit luminosity;
3. Eliminates the height restrictions on light poles;
4. Eliminates the requirement for a photometric plan;
5. Establishes the requirement for a lighting plan;
6. Establishes additional recreational facility lighting standards;
7. Establishes two new outdoor lighting exemptions.
Draft amendment language to SVMC 22.60 has been included in Attachment A of the Request for
Planning Commission Action (RPCA).
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: No action recommended at this time. The Planning
Commission will conduct a public hearing and consider the proposed amendment on June 27,2013.
STAFF CONTACT:
Martin Palaniuk,Planner
ATTACHMENTS:
A. Staff Report and Findings CTA-2013-0005
CTA-04-12 RPCA for Study Session
ATTACHMENT A
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
PLANNING DIVISION
SjOkane
alle STAFF REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION TO THE
PLANNING COMMISSION
CTA-2013-0005
STAFF REPORT DATE: June 5,2013
HEARING DATE AND LOCATION: June 27, 2013, beginning at 6:00 p.m., Spokane Valley City Hall
Council Chambers, Valley Redwood Plaza Building, 11707 East Sprague Avenue, Suite 101, Spokane
Valley,Washington 99206.
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: A city initiated text amendment proposing to amend Spokane Valley
Municipal Code (SVMC) 22.60 to streamline the outdoor lighting standards by eliminating the
watts per square foot lighting limit, eliminating redundant provisions, eliminating the
requirement for a photometric plan, adding a requirement for a lighting plan if deemed necessary
by the building division, and adding two additional exemptions.
PROPONENT: City of Spokane Valley Community Development Department, 11707 E Sprague Ave,
Suite 106, Spokane Valley,WA 99206
APPROVAL CRITERIA: Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan, Spokane Valley Municipal Code (SVMC)
Title 17 General Provisions.
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATION: The Planning Division recommends the Planning Commission
approve the proposed amendments as put forth.
STAFF PLANNER:Martin Palaniuk,Planner,Community Development Department
REVIEWED BY: Scott Kuhta,AICP, Planning Manager, Community Development Department
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1: Proposed text amendment to SVMC 22.60
A. BACKGROUND INFORMATION
1. APPLICATION PROCESSING: SVMC Chapter 17.80, Permit Processing Procedures. The
following summarizes application procedures for the proposal.
Process Date
Pre-Application Meeting: N/A
Application Submitted: N/A
Determination of Completeness: N/A
Published Notice of Public Hearing: 6/7/2013 and 6/14/2013
Sent Notice of Public Hearing to staff/agencies: 6/7/2013
Staff Report and Recommendation CTA-2013-0005
2. PROPOSAL BACKGROUND: The proposal is to modify Spokane Valley Municipal Code (SVMC)
Chapter 22.60, Outdoor Lighting Standards. The intent is to streamline the development review
process and remove unwarranted lighting requirements.
The proposed amendment will eliminate the lighting limits for covered parking,open parking and
outdoor areas. These areas were limited to 0.20 watts per square foot of lot area. Newer lighting
fixture technology has made the use of input wattage as a measure of brightness,or luminosity,
outdated. New lighting fixtures have increased the lumens, a measure of the amount of
brightness a light fixture emits,while reducing the amount of watts required. Limiting the watts
per square foot is an inconsistent method of limiting the brightness emanating from a site.
The amendment will also remove the lighting limits on building exterior and landscape lighting.
The current code limits the watts per square foot of building façade or per linear foot of building
perimeter.
Restrictions on the maximum height of pole-mounted outdoor lighting fixtures are removed as
part of the proposed amendment. This requirement did not seem reasonable based on a new
proposed standard of not allowing any unshielded light trespass to occur between incompatible
uses. In order to meet the new standard,development should self-limit the height of light poles.
The proposed amendment changes the previous standard of no light trespass across any
bounding property line between incompatible uses or into the public right-of-way. It is difficult
for development to completely eliminate all light trespass. Staff is not trained or educated to
evaluate or measure whether proposed development is meeting the no light trespass standard.
The new standard will require that no unshielded light trespass may occur across the boundary,
seeking to eliminate the glare from outdoor lighting while allowing some light trespass to occur.
This standard appears to be consistent with surrounding jurisdictions.
Development is required to meet all the requirements of the Washington State Energy Code.
Restating the requirements in the SVMC is redundant. The amendment will remove these
redundant references.
The current SVMC requires any application for development to submit a photometric analysis of
the lighting effects prepared by a qualified engineer. The reason was to determine if any lighting
trespass would occur across the bounding property lines. The proposed amendment will require
the building division to evaluate the development application during the pre-application phase of
the permit process and determine if a lighting plan will be required. If a lighting plan is required
then it must show the location of the fixtures and type of shielding being used. A photometric
analysis will not be required because the new applicant no longer must show that no light trespass
will occur on adjacent properties.
The proposed amendment removes the restriction on the height of walkway lighting. Walkway
lighting will still require shielding to eliminate off-site glare.
The proposed amendment will eliminate the requirement for outdoor arenas, stadiums and
playfields to turn off lighting within 30 minutes of completing an event. This requirement has not
been actively enforced and no compliance issues have arisen.
Two additional exceptions to the outdoor lighting standards will be added as part of the proposed
amendment; in-pool lighting for private swimming pools and holiday decorations.
B. FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS SPECIFIC TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE TEXT
AMENDMENT
1. Compliance with Title 17(General Provisions)of the Spokane Valley Municipal Code
a. Findings:
SVMC 17.80.150(F)Municipal Code Text Amendment Approval Criteria
Page 2 of 4
Staff Report and Recommendation CTA-2013-0005
i. The City may approve Municipal Code Text amendment,if it finds that
(1) The proposed text amendment is consistent with the applicable provisions of the
Comprehensive Plan;
Staff Analysis: The proposed amendment is consistent with the applicable policies
of the Comprehensive Plan. The amendment is consistent with the Comprehensive
plan goals for encouraging a mix of commercial and residential uses, providing
affordable housing options, maintaining a flexible and consistent regulatory
environment, and preserving and protecting neighborhoods.
Relevant Comprehensive Plan goals and policies are shown below:
Land Use Policy-1.2 Protect residential areas from impacts of adjacent non-
residential uses and/or higher intensity uses through the development and
enforcement of the City's land use regulations and joint planning.
Land Use Policy -13.1 Maximize efficiency of the development review process by
continuously evaluating the permitting process and modifying as appropriate.
Housing Policy HP-1.1: Consider the economic impact of development regulations
on the cost of housing.
Housing Policy HP-1.2: Streamline the development review process and strive to
eliminate unnecessary time delays and expenses.
Economic Goal EDG-7: Maintain a regulatory environment that offers flexibility,
consistency,predictability and clear direction.
Economic Policy EDP-7.1: Evaluate,monitor and improve development standards to
promote compatibility between adjacent land uses; and update permitting processes
to ensure that they are equitable,cost-effective, and expeditious.
Economic Policy EDP-7.2: Review development regulations periodically to ensure
clarity,consistency and predictability.
Neighborhood Goal NG-2: Preserve and protect the character of Spokane Valley's
residential neighborhoods.
Neighborhood Policy NP-2.1: Maintain and protect the character of existing and
future residential neighborhoods through the development and enforcement of the
City's land use regulations and joint planning.
Neighborhood Policy NP-2.2: Review and revise as necessary,existing land use
regulations to provide for innovation and flexibility in the design of new residential
developments, accessory dwelling units, and in-fill development.
(2) The proposed amendment bears a substantial relation to public health, safety,
welfare,and protection of the environment;
Staff Analysis: The amendment bears substantial relation to public health, safety,
welfare and protection of the environment. The proposed amendment will streamline
the outdoor lighting development review process and provide flexibility in lighting
choices. The requirement to shield lighting trespass will minimize glare and mitigate
off-site impacts.
b. Conclusion(s):
The proposed text amendment is consistent with the approval criteria contained in the SVMC.
Page 3 of 4
Staff Report and Recommendation CTA-2013-0005
2. Finding and Conclusions Specific to Public Comments
a. Findings:
No public comments have been received to date.
b. Conclusion(s):
Public noticing has not been initiated for CTA-2013-0005 as of this date.
3. Finding and Conclusions Specific to Agency Comments
a. Findings:
No agency comments have been received to date.
b. Conclusion(s):
No concerns are noted.
C. OVERALL CONCLUSION
The proposed code text amendment is consistent with the Comprehensive Plans policies and goals.
D. STAFF RECOMMENDATION
The Planning Division, after review and consideration of the applicable approval criteria,
recommends the approval of the proposed amendment to eliminate the maximum watts per square
foot requirement, eliminate references to the Washington State Energy Code, remove height
restrictions on pole-mounted and walkway lighting, eliminate the no light trespass standard and
replace it with a no unshielded light trespass standard, eliminate the requirement for a photometric
analysis and replace it with a lighting plan if required by the building division, eliminate the 30
minute turn-off after an event requirement for outdoor arenas, and except in-pool swimming pool
lighting and holiday decorations from the outdoor lighting standards.
Page 4 of 4
Chapter 22.60
OUTDOOR LIGHTING STANDARDS
Sections:
22.60.010 Purpose.
22.60.020 Application.
22.60.030 General requirements.
22.60.040 Prohibited lights.
22.60.050 Exceptions.
22.60.060 Temporary lighting.
22.60.010 Purpose.
The regulation of outdoor lighting discourages excessive lighting of outdoor spaces, encourages energy
conservation and prohibits lighting creating a nuisance for adjacent property owners. (Ord. 07-015 §4,
2007).
22.60.020 Application.
The requirements of this chapter and the Washington Energy Code(Chapter 51 11 WAC) apply to
outdoor lighting requirements for all developments except one- and two-family dwellings and public street
lighting. (Ord. 07-015 § 4, 2007).
22.60.030 General requirements.
The installation of new outdoor lighting or the extension, modification or expansion of existing outdoor
lighting is subject to the following requirements:
A. The lighting allowance for covered parking, open parking and outdoor areas shall not exceed 0.20
e._.
per square foot for covered residential parking when ceilings and walls are painted or stained with a
reflectance value of 0.70 or higher.
B. The lighting allowance for building exteriors, including landscaping lighting, shall not exceed either 0.25
watts per square foot of building facade or 7.5 watts per linear foot of building perimeter.
C. The maximum height of pole mounted outdoor lighting fixtures shall not exceed /12 feet in Regional
Commercial and industrial zoning districts and 35 feet in all other districts.
A. All outdoor lights shall include a light source and reflector that controls the light beam so that
unshielded na light does not extends across any bounding property line between incompatible uses or
into the public right-of-way,
CTA-2013-0005 Proposed Text Amendment Page I 1
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G. A4�Aapplications for building permits for commercial development will be evaluated by the city to
determine if a lighting plan is required. If required, the plan will include the following: shall be
1. A site plan showing the location of all outdoor light fixtures
2. The type and method of shielding for each light fixture.
CTA-2013-0005 Proposed Text Amendment Page 12
H. The mounting height of walkway lighting shall not exceed 12 feet and all fixtures mounted at a height
of more than eight feet shall be fully shielded.
I. Lighting designed to accent landscaping features or architectural elements, including the illumination of
pole-mounted flags of the United States, shall be concealed or positioned so that the light source is not
visible at adjacent property lines.
J. Lighting for outdoor arenas, stadiums and playfields shall not remain on longer than 30 minutes
following the end of the event. (Ord. 07 015 §/1, 2007).
22.60.040 Prohibited lights.
The following lights are prohibited unless a temporary permit is obtained for specific events with specific
times of operation:
A. Laser source light, strobe lights and similar high intensity light sources, except those associated with
approved activities of the City of Spokane Valley. High intensity lights for which a temporary permit is
issued shall not project above the horizontal plane nor extend into the public right-of-way.
B. Searchlights. (Ord. 07-015 § 4, 2007).
22.60.050 Exceptions.
A. Navigation and airport lighting required for the safe operation of boats and airplanes.
B. Emergency lighting required by police, fire, and rescue authorities.
C. Lighting for state and federal highways authorized by the Washington State Department of
Transportation.
D. Internal lighting of permitted signs.
E. Outdoor lighting for public monuments.
F. In-pool lighting for private swimming pools
G. Holiday decorations (Ord. 07-015 §4, 2007).
22.60.060 Temporary lighting.
The building official may authorize temporary exceptions not to exceed 30 days for good cause shown.
(Ord. 07-015 §4, 2007).
CTA-2013-0005 Proposed Text Amendment Page 13
Spokane Valley Planning Commission
DRAFT Minutes
Council Chambers— City Hall, 11707 E. Sprague Ave.
May 23, 2013
I. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Bates called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioners, staff and audience stood for the pledge of allegiance
III. ROLL CALL
COMMISSIONERS Present Absent CITY STAFF
Bill Bates-Chair x John Hohman, Com Development Director
Joe Stoy—Vice Chair x r Erik Lamb,Deputy City Attorney
Steven Neill x r
Kevin Anderson x r
Mike Phillips x r
Robert McCaslin x r
Christina Carlsen x r Cari Hinshaw, Secretary
IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Commissioner Stoy moved to approve the agenda as presented, a second was made and the
motion passed unanimously.
V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Stoy moved to approve the May 9, 2013 minutes as presented, a second was
made and the motion passed unanimously.
VI. PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
VII. COMMISSION REPORTS
Commissioner Carlsen reported that she attended the open house for the proposed park and
library concept. She stated there was a large turnout and there was a lot of good information for
the public.
Planning Commission Minutes Page 1 of 7
Commissioner Bates reported that he attended the dedication ceremony for the Gateway Sign
on May 15, 2013. He commented on the big improvement to that area. On May 16, 2013, he
also attended the Smartgov presentation for the City's permitting software. He stated it was
very interesting and well attended.
VIII. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Community Development Director John Hohman gave an update on the Shoreline
Management program. He stated that they are working diligently on the development
regulations and getting closer with a much better draft. He explained that the draft needs to be
sent out to the Department of Ecology (DOE) by next week in order to be in compliance with
the grant that the City has with DOE. Mr. Hohman also stated that they are looking to start the
adoption process. He suggested that there be a combined City Council/Planning Commission
meeting with just the Shoreline Management topic on the agenda, which would be an
Administrative Report by staff, the consultant team, and Tadas Kisielius. Mr. Hohman stated
that they would have to look at some dates and he would get back with the Planning
Commissioners.
IX. COMMISSION BUSINESS
A. Unfinished Business: Findings of Fact: 2013 Comprehensive Plan Amendments
Commissioner Neill moved to approve the Findings of Fact for the 2013 Comprehensive Plan
Amendments as presented, a second was made and the motion passed unanimously.
B. New Business: Public Hearing: CTA-2013-0004, Amendment to the Spokane Valley
Municipal Code, Amending Sign Regulations.
Commissioner Stoy made a motion to withdraw the Planning Commission's previous
motion "to proceed with CTA-2013-0004 to City Council," which was originally voted on
April 11, 2013 and passed unanimously by the Commissioners then present. A second was
made and the motion was passed unanimously.
Chair Bates opened the Public Hearing at 6:18 PM
Community Development Director John Hohman provided a brief overview of the
materials for CTA-2013-0004 sign code amendments and went over the changes as
attached in the draft materials for the sign regulations.
Questions and Comments:
Under 22.110.090 section F: (Signs shall not be blocked or obscured by trees or
bushes.) Commissioner Stoy stated that after about five or six years after initial planting,
trees are going to become bigger trees and those signs will probably end up being blocked
by the trees.
Commissioner Carlsen asked if Mr. Hohman found out about any other jurisdictions and
their sign ordinances. Mr. Hohman stated that Spokane County prohibits most temporary
signage although there is not a lot of enforcement on reader boards and other temporary
signs. He said that the City of Spokane is flexible and does not regulate much temporary
signage, while the City of Liberty Lake does.
Regarding 22.110.050 section C: (Additional banners or temporary signs advertising a
special event, sale, promotion, opening of a new business or a business under new
Planning Commission Minutes Page 2 of 7
management, including banners, balloons, pennants, flags with copy, streamers,
seachlights and inflatables are allowed by temporary permit for a period of time not
to exceed 60 days a maximum of two times in any calendar year.) Commissioner
Carlsen asked if the balloons are meant for places like car lots. Mr. Hohman stated that it
would cover something like a big event, not every day balloons in a car lot.
Commissioner Bates commented on banners and different businesses such as the gas
station at the Fred Meyer location on Sullivan, and asked Mr. Hohman if that location
counted as one business or more than one business. Mr. Hohman responded it would be
counted as separate functions which would allow banners for both locations.
Public Comments:
Steve Wineinger 1124 N. Freya Spokane WA 99202.
Mr. Wineinger stated the following concerns:
1. Section 22.110.030 Permit required. Section C, line 3. (The location of all existing
signs on the site including size and height.) Mr. Wineinger proposes that that
requirement would be limited to freestanding signs. He stated whenever a wall sign
permit is pulled for a business that is in a strip mall or shopping center, that business
gets 25% of the wall area in their lease space. Therefore, if a place such as the Valley
Mall has a business that has an exterior space, under the requirement the sign company
would have to survey every sign on that property. In addition, the business may only be
leasing a portion of the area. He stated that when he pulls a permit, he has to give the
square footage of the wall, when they are allowed only 25% of that area. Mr. Wineinger
stated the way that the amendment above is worded, it would require the sign
companies to measure every sign on the entire property, which would add hours of
work to each permit. He stated it would be irrelevant and unnecessary.
2. Section 22.110.030 Section D, paragraph 1. (signature is required on each
construction drawing for signs over 30 feet in height, pole and monument signs
over 100 square feet in sign area regardless of height, flag signs over 10 feet in
height.) Mr. Wineinger, asked that the Planning Commission strongly consider passing
this new addition. He said his concern is with paragraph 2. (Special inspection agency
agreements, signed by the owner and special inspection agency are required for
sign construction with concrete over 2500 psi, on site welding, or high strength
bolting.) Mr. Wineinger said he wants to propose there be a stamp that puts the
verbiage on the permit apps it shows as follows: (If there is high, strength
concrete/bolts required that the customer must conform to the requirements as
called out by the engineer, all welds must be conformed to spec.) He also stated that
you could also require that a receipt from the concrete truck be turned in with the
permit. The reason for his request is that five percent of signs are match plate welded to
the pipe, like a bolt together kit. This way is very expensive. In addition, 95% of signs
are a pole in the ground, with the sign built on it. The sign in the middle has steel pipe
pockets. The sign is slid over the pipe, it's squared, leveled and than welded into place.
Commissioner Anderson stated he does not see any reason for high strength bolting, but
if an engineer required it, there are only two options: One is the turn of the nut method,
where they have to watch you bolt it down; and the other is the spline sacrifice bolt.
The spline snaps off when the torque is at a certain level and he said that nobody does
Planning Commission Minutes Page 3 of 7
that unless they can afford the machine that does it. He also stated there is an area in
there where inspection can be very expensive and produce zero net gain in the steel side
of it. Commissioner Anderson stated he agrees with Mr. Wineinger and stated he has
experience in this area. Commissioner Stoy stated that if an engineer that requires high
strength bolting in the structural plans than why you wouldn't incorporate those cost at
that point. Mr. Wineinger stated that in the sign business he has never been required to
have high strength/bolts concrete, except for the main stadium scoreboard for WSU.
Community Development Director Hohman stated he will need to consult with the
building official for this section. He said they would evaluate Mr. Wineinger's
comments and provide additional information for the Planning Commission.
3. Section 22.110.090 Paragraph F. (All new freestanding signs shall be located in a
landscaped area in accordance with SVMC 22.70.030.) Mr. Wineinger stated he
does not know of any other municipalities that he pull permits in, when landscaping is
required to get a sign permit. He proposed that paragraph (F) be removed. He
commented if you have a business that does not have landscaping and has no area for
landscaping, than the sign has to go in the parking lot because that is all they have.
Mr. Hohman said he wanted to discuss Mr. Wineinger comments on the first section. He
stated that he understands Mr. Wineinger comments, but he would like to focus on the
individual site. He stated if the item is changed to only free standing than you would be
missing out on a lot of information, so maybe it should be clarified such that it would direct
them to the specific businesses that are coming in and for the specific permit application.
Regarding the welding and special inspections, Mr. Hohman stated he would get back to
the Planning Commission with more information. On the landscaping portion he stated that
has been in the code previously and the language on the second line was to clarify that. Mr.
Hohman explained that Planning Commission might just want to remove that second
sentence (Signs shall not be blocked or obscured by tress or bushes) since it is not
necessary to include in that section.
There were no further comments and Commissioner Bates closed the Public Hearing
at 7:10 PM
Motion: Commissioner Stoy moved to approve and forward to the City Council CTA-2013-
0004 as presented, a second was made.
Discussion:
Commissioner Anderson commented on the verbiage in item C, 3. He asked if it could be
solved by just putting: (The location of all existing signs on the business's possessive
site.) so if you have a strip mall of businesses maybe that would apply. Commissioner Stoy
disagreed. He stated he thinks it's asking if there is more than one sign at that particular site
and not necessarily a mall sign where there are ten or twelve tenants. Concerning multiple
signs on the site, he stated that it should stay in there. Commissioner Anderson stated if you
have one business then it's irrelevant because it is one business per site, and asked if you
have a mall with multiple tenants does the sign code apply to each tenant or does it apply to
the mall owner? Commissioner Stoy stated that it is asking for a sign site plan. Deputy City
Attorney Lamb and Community Development Director Hohman recommended that the
Planning Commission could deliberate further to modify the language to say (The location
of all existing signs on the site for the subject business, including size and height.)
Planning Commission Minutes Page 4 of 7
There was discussion to have business removed and replaced with applicant. Everyone
agreed. Commissioner McCaslin commented about the specifics of the special inspection
section and wanted to know who does the special inspection agency agreements.
Commissioner Stoy responded that there are several in the City like GEO Tech Engineers,
Budinger and a few more; and said they are very expensive. Commissioner Stoy stated that
if special inspections are not required by the engineer and the plans state that the welds are
as per AWS or per WABO he is fine with that, but he stated it needs to say something like:
(if special inspections are required by the engineer.) Commissioner Carlsen commented
on the temporary signs section A. She stated that she likes the old verbiage better and that
the new verbiage brings too much clutter, and said that taking into account the size of the
parking area, might be good. Commissioner Carlsen also stated with a strip mall, it's too
many signs. Commissioner McCaslin disagreed with Commissioner Carlsen and said he
does not want this to set a precedent to have to legislate it, when private citizens should be
the ones to make their formal complaints with the businesses if there are too many signs.
Commissioner Neill stated that he agrees with the new changes and that if business don't
like so much sign clutter than they can make a complaint. Commissioner Bates stated he is
pro-business and that they need to do everything they can to make the City business
friendly. He stated that some will abuse this, but feels comfortable with the City's Code
Enforcement employees. He stated that most businesses are abiding by the rules.
Commissioner Bates shared that overall it's very good, and the business friendly sign
regulations that will be enforced by the City's code enforcement officers. Commissioner
Bates also commented on the display times for frames. Concerning Temporary Signs
number 3, he stated he does not believe that it's abused very much, and would like number
three taken out. He said he does not think business owners are taking the sign in and don't
need to. Commissioner Phillips stated that in downtown Issaquah they don't have any
signs, it's very laid back. He commented that he would not go into Issaquah because he
does not know where anything is without the business signs. He is for the new sign code
and believes we do not need to police the clutter.
Planning Commissioners discussed the wording under temporary signs, paragraph A. Six
Planning Commissioners wanted to keep the two signs verbiage and one Planning
Commissioner wanted it to stay with one sign shall be allowed at any one time.
Under 22.110.090 paragraph, F. Planning Commissioner Stoy stated that the second
sentence should be stricken. (Signs shall not be blocked or obscured by trees or bushes.)
He explained when a sign is placed in the landscaping strip, five to ten years later, the trees
will have grown and you will not be able to see the sign, so they will be cutting the trees off
at twenty feet. Commissioner Carlsen asked about the procedure for striking an ordinance.
Deputy City Attorney Lamb explained that if they strike the second sentence, then it would
show up as an amendment, and that the ordinance just references the provision.
Commissioner Bates called for a five-minute break; he resumed the meeting at 7:42 PM
Community Development Director Hohman displayed the actual code provision that was
referenced in the sign code. Mr. Hohman stated that the sentence that is being discussed in
the sign code is just a reference to the landscaping code provision, which shows the
requirements for free standing signs, and is not in the scope of what was being discussed.
He stated if the provision is stricken, the landscaping code still applies. Commissioner Stoy
expressed concern about signs being placed and then being blocked five years later. Mr.
Planning Commission Minutes Page 5 of 7
Hohman stated the purpose for a review for landscaping is to make sure that any signage
and street trees do not conflict; also reviewed are site triangles at driveways to make sure
the landscaping does not interfere with the public's ability to get in and out of that business
without getting into an accident. Commissioner Stoy asked if a remodel is classified a new
development. Mr. Hohman stated, not according to what they are doing. He stated that his
interpretation is (new freestanding signs, serving a new development), which is a new
building in a new development would follow the proposed code. Mr. Lamb asked the
Planning Commission to look at (F) in the sign code regulations (requires that new signs
be located in accordance with 22.70.030 (J)), particularly to look at (J4) (new sign
structures on a fully developed site are exempt from landscaping). Mr. Lamb
commented that he reads that as (J) provides for that instance and if you had an existing
building and they wanted to put a new sign on there, it would not be required to meet the
landscaping requirements. Commissioner Phillips stated if it read (all new freestanding
signs shall be located in accordance with 22.70.030 (J)) than that solves the problem, but
not as long as it reads (shall be located in a landscape area in accordance with). He
stated that once you have a landscaped area then you're fighting a battle to prove that you
don't have to have a landscaped area and he said he would like the landscaped area taken
out. Commissioner Carlsen stated that maybe it should state (shall be located in areas in
accordance) and (just take out the landscape). Mr. Lamb stated that since (J) does not
address where to locate the sign, rather than modifying it to state (located in accordance)
perhaps it should read (all new freestanding signs shall comply with SVMC 22.70.030
(J)). He said that accomplishes what Commissioner Phillips wants and there would be no
confusion to where the sign is located. All Planning Commissioners agreed.
Mr. Hohman asked for clarification from the Planning Commission on Section 22.110.090
Paragraph F. Mr. Hohman asked if the Planning Commission wanted to leave the sentence
as stated. (sign shall not be blocked by trees or bushes). Through discussion the Planning
Commission decided to leave the sentence in the ordinance.
Commissioner Bates said there needs to be some clarification on Special inspections
agency agreement. Mr. Hohman recommended to continue deliberations to the next
meeting.
Mr. Lamb stated to Commissioner Bates that he had mentioned about the display time for
the (A) frames. He stated he wanted to make sure what the Commissioners consensus was
on that. Temporary Signs, section E,paragraph 3. (Display Time. Signs may shall only
be displayed during business hours. If business hours continue past daylight hours,
precautions should be taken to place the sign in a lighted area. This shall not be
construed to allow the wiring of a sign for lighting.) Mr. Phillips asked about the word
(may) instead of replacing it with (shall). Mr. Lamb stated that (shall) was to bring it into
conformity with how they provide mandates with the rest of the code. Commissioner
McCaslin asked about the words (only out) and have (may) by itself. Mr. Lamb responded
it would not make it a mandate, it would then be optional displayed and you would still
have the after daylight hour precautions being in a lighted area after dark. Mr. Lamb stated
that the consideration would be the next section 3, take out the first sentence, and rework
the second sentence to read(if the sign is displayed passed daylight hours, precautions
should be taken to place the sign in a lighted area). Planning Commissioners agreed to
take out the first sentence. In addition, they all agreed to replace with (Display Time. If the
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sign is displayed past daylight hours, precautions should be taken.) Planning
Commission all agreed.
Commissioner Bates asked if there were any more questions.
Commissioner Bates stated the Special inspections discussion would resume at the next
meeting.
Commissioner Stoy thanked Mr. Lamb for his insight during the meeting.
X. GOOD OF THE ORDER
There was nothing for the good of the order.
XI. ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner McCaslin moved to adjourn, a second was made, and the motion was
passed unanimously
There being no other business the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
Bill Bates, Chairperson
Cari Hinshaw, PC Secretary
Date signed
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