Chapter 20.60 SIGNS

This chapter establishes regulations governing the installation, alteration, relocation, maintenance, use, and removal of all signs in the city. Signs obstruct views, distract motorists, displace alternative uses for land, and pose other problems that legitimately call for regulation. The purpose of this code is to regulate the size, color, illumination, movement, materials, location, height and condition of all signs placed on private or public property for exterior observation, thus ensuring the protection of property values, the creation of a convenient, attractive and harmonious community, protection against destruction of or encroachment on historic convenience to citizens and encouragement of economic development. This chapter allows adequate communication through signage while encouraging aesthetic quality in the design, location, size and purpose of all signs. This chapter must be interpreted in a manner consistent with the First Amendment guarantee of free speech. If any provision of this code is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such finding must not affect the validity of other provisions of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision.

The purpose of this chapter is to accomplish the following:

(1) To encourage effective sign communication that is responsive to the needs of the public in locating establishments by identification, address, product and/or service information;

(2) To protect properties from the loss of prominence and reduced effectiveness of individual signs which would result from the unregulated number, size, and location of signs;

(3) To enhance the visual character and identity of the city and reduce clutter and visual distraction;

(4) To ensure that signs in the city do not adversely affect pedestrian and traffic safety by obstructing vehicle sight distance, interfering with official traffic signs, signals and devices, and unduly directing attention away from the demands of safe driving;

(5) To further the goals and objectives of the comprehensive plan;

(6) To preserve the right of free speech exercised through the use of signs containing noncommercial messages. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.005 Definitions.

(1) “Abandoned sign” means any sign pertaining to a business or occupant whose products or services or noncommercial messages have ceased to be offered to the public or ceased to be in effect on said premises for a period of more than 90 days.

(2) “Backlit rigid canopy sign” means any type of facade sign affixed to or integral with the surface of a translucent rigid canopy lit by lights directed toward the canopy material and mounted from internal canopy frames.

(3) “Banner” means any sign of lightweight fabric or similar material that is mounted to a pole or building by any means. National flags, state or municipal flags, seasonal flags, or the official flag of any institution or business shall not be considered banners.

(4) “Billboard” means any sign designed for use with readily changeable advertising copy unrelated to any use or activity on the property on which the sign is located.

(5) “Building identification sign” means any sign that is an integral part of the structure of a building or made of bronze or other permanent material, and that identifies and advertises only the name of a building, date and incidental information about its construction, and other historical information.

(6) “Building wall” means the side of a building as measured between the outermost corners of the building, or between the interior walls separating tenant spaces when one building contains multiple owners or tenants. For multi-story buildings with multiple tenant spaces, the building wall shall be measured separately for each tenant space on each story.

(7) “Business sign” means any sign that identifies and advertises the name of an enterprise, person, institution, business, service, or product.

(8) “Commercial speech” means speech or writing on behalf of a business, person, or entity, with the intent of earning revenue or a profit. It is economic in nature and usually attempts to persuade consumers to purchase the business’s product or service or proposes a commercial transaction.

(9) “Curb extension planting strip” means a portion of the sidewalk or curb line that is extended into the street, across the parking lane to the edge of the travel lane, to include space for a street tree planter. These extensions may occur at street intersections or midblock and do not extend along the entire length of a street.

(10) “Development complex” means any commercial center, institution or development which contains four or more separate businesses or institutions located within or upon a single premises or, if on separately owned properties, which share common parking areas and/or access drives.

(11) “Electronic message sign” means a sign containing a message or display that consists of a pattern of lights or other technology which is capable of changing at intermittent intervals in order to vary the message being communicated (see “full-color electronic message sign” and “monochrome electronic message sign”).

(12) “Facade sign” means a sign painted upon or erected flush along the exterior wall or window of a building or upon an awning attached to such exterior wall and displaying only one sign surface.

(13) “Fence sign” means a sign attached to a fence.

(14) “Flashing sign” means a sign or portion thereof which changes light intensity or switches on and off in a constant or random pattern and no more frequently than once every two seconds, or contains motion or the optical illusion of motion by use of electrical energy, including strobe lights in window displays. Changing message signs or time and temperature signs shall not be considered flashing signs; provided, they do not flash as defined herein.

(15) “Freestanding sign” means a sign erected on a self-supporting structure erected and supported from the ground (see “monument sign” and “pole sign”).

(16) “Free speech” means speech which is not commercial speech.

(17) “Full-color electronic message sign” means an electronic message sign which utilizes multi-color technology to display a message or image. Full-color electronic message signs typically maintain the ability to display images, animations and video. The use or display of video or animations is not permitted in any zoning district.

(18) “Incidental sign” means a sign, generally informational, that has a purpose secondary to the use of the property on which it is located, such as “no parking,” “enter,” “exit,” “loading only,” “telephone,” and other similar directives.

(19) “Monochrome electronic message sign” means an electronic message sign which utilizes only one color (such as white, red or amber) technology to display a message or image. Monochrome signs shall display text only; no video, animations or similar displays are permitted when using monochrome electronic message signs.

(20) “Monument sign” means a sign supported by a base that is equal to or greater in width than the sign cabinet the base is intended to support/display. The base of the monument sign shall be constructed using similar exterior materials as the building(s) to which the sign corresponds or an approved alternative high quality material (e.g., stone veneer). Monument signs may also consist of painted text or channel letters mounted on a freestanding seating wall or retaining wall where the total height of the structure meets the limitations of this code.

(21) “Off-premises sign” means any sign designed for use with permanent advertising copy that advertises any enterprise not located on the property or development complex on which the sign is located.

(22) “Outdoor vehicle display” means any open-air lot at least two acres in size or with at least 300 feet of lineal frontage on a single street, used for the purposes of year-round display and sales of any vehicle as defined in Chapter 46.70 RCW, or as otherwise permitted pursuant to PMC 20.47.010(3).

(23) “Pennant” means any lightweight plastic, fabric, or other material, whether or not containing a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wire, or string, usually in a series.

(24) “Permanently affixed” means secured with hardware or supported by a foundation.

(25) “Pole sign” means a freestanding sign that is structurally mounted on one or more poles.

(26) “Portable sign” means any temporary sign that is self-supporting but not permanently attached to the ground and can be moved from one location to another. This definition includes, but is not limited to, sandwich board or “A” frame signs; balloons and inflatables used as signs; and umbrellas used for advertising.

(27) “Projecting sign” means a sign that is erected perpendicular to and supported from the wall of a building.

(28) “Regional shopping center” means a development complex consisting of at least 500,000 square feet of enclosed leasable area.

(29) “Residential development sign” means any sign that identifies a residential subdivision, condominium or apartment complex of four units or more.

(30) “Roof sign” means any sign erected and constructed wholly on and over the roof of a building, or supported by the roof structure, or extending vertically above the highest portion of the roof.

(31) “Sandwich board sign” means a temporary sign set upon the ground, consisting of two sign faces hinged at the top and separated at the bottom to make it self-standing upon the ground.

(32) “Sheet plastic signs” means any sign made of a rigid plastic material which creates a surface area upon which multiple letters, words or symbols are placed.

(33) “Sign” is any word, placard, board, notice, logo, insignia, symbol, flag, banner, balloon or inflatable device or pennant, which uses graphics, symbols, or written copy and is used to advertise or promote the interest of any person, institution, or business. Works of art, fountains, mosaics, merchandise, and building or structural design features that do not contain a commercial message, logo, symbol, or identification are not signs according to this definition.

(34) “Street frontage” means the distance for which a lot line of a property adjoins a public or private street, from one lot line intersecting said street to the furthest distant lot line intersecting the same street. For the purposes of this code, “street” does not include controlled access highways (i.e., SR-167, SR-512).

(35) “Structure” means anything constructed or erected which requires location on or in the ground or attachment to something having a location on or in the ground. “Structure” shall include any kind of building, porch, pier, column, post, sign, or billboard.

(36) “Structurally altered” means any change to the supporting members of a sign, including but not limited to foundations, mountings, poles, frames, and sign cabinets.

(37) “Temporary sign” means any sign, as defined above, that is intended to be used for short periods of time or is constructed of nonpermanent materials, including, but not limited to, cloth, canvas, light fabric, vinyl, paper, corrugated plastic or other light materials, or is not permanently affixed to a building, structure, or the ground.

(38) “Under-canopy sign” means a sign suspended over a sidewalk or pedestrian way by attachment to the underside of a canopy, marquee, awning, or similar structure, perpendicular to the wall.

(39) “Video” means the use of live action shot with a video camera or creative animation(s) created through the use of computer graphic imaging, which is displayed on an electronic message sign or similar device. The use or display of video is not permitted in any zoning district.

(40) “Window sign” means any sign, temporary or permanent, designed to communicate information about an activity, business, commodity, event, sale, or service, that is placed inside a window or upon a window pane or glass and is legible from a distance of eight feet from the exterior of the window. Displays of merchandise for sale shall not be considered window signs. (Ord. 3215 § 2, 2020; Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 45, 2016; Ord. 3073 § 31, 2014; Ord. 3010 § 1, 2012; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.010 Exempt signs.

The following signs shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter:

(1) All signs not legible from a distance of more than eight feet from a property line abutting a public right-of-way;

(2) Official notices required by a court, public body, or public safety official;

(3) Directional, warning, identification or information signs authorized or required by federal, state or municipal governments, including traffic or pedestrian control/warning/direction signs;

(4) Flags of any size. Flags shall be no taller than the maximum height allowed in the applicable zone;

(5) Religious symbols and seasonal decorations;

(6) Permanent signs on private property which are two square feet in area and smaller;

(7) Street address identification signs;

(8) Signs regulating the use or identification of publicly owned parks and recreation facilities, including trail signage, when authorized by the city of Puyallup parks and recreation department;

(9) One electronic message sign per site that utilizes monochrome color technology, no more than six square feet in area, that alternates between messages no more frequently than once every two seconds. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 46, 2016; Ord. 3010 § 2, 2012; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.015 Signs not requiring a permit.

The following signs shall not require a permit, but are required to meet all applicable requirements contained in this chapter:

(1) Memorial plaques, building identification signs and building cornerstones when cut or carved into a masonry surface or when made of noncombustible material and made an integral part of the building or structure;

(2) Home occupations permitted in residential zones are permitted one facade sign not exceeding six square feet in area;

(3) Any window sign; provided, that no individual sign or combination of signs shall exceed 25 percent coverage of each facade. Furthermore:

(a) If the area of window signs, as allowed under this section, does not exceed 25 percent of window coverage per facade then the window sign area shall not count towards the total allowable sign area permitted for a particular property; and

(b) If a window sign or combination of signs is equal to or exceeds 25 percent window coverage per facade, then it shall be considered a facade sign and shall adhere to all regulations governing facade signs including the requirement to obtain a sign permit;

(4) Temporary signs as allowed in PMC 20.60.070. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.020 Prohibited signs.

The following devices and locations are specifically prohibited:

(1) Prohibited Sign Locations.

(a) Signs located in such a manner as to obstruct or otherwise interfere with an official traffic sign, signal or device or obstruct or interfere with a driver’s view of approaching, merging or intersecting traffic;

(b) Except as provided for in Table 20.60.050(5) and PMC 20.60.067(1)(c) and 20.60.070(1), signs encroaching upon or overhanging public rights-of-way;

(c) Any sign attached to or placed on a vehicle or trailer parked on public or private property. The prohibition of this subsection does not prohibit signs on a vehicle operating during the normal course of business or being taken home;

(d) Signs painted on, attached to, or placed on a roof;

(e) Signs painted on, attached to, or placed on bus benches;

(f) Any sign erected or placed in a public right-of-way, except for temporary off-premises signs as authorized herein, and except those required by a governmental agency under the provisions of this code;

(g) Any sign affixed to a utility pole, whether located on private property or within the public right-of-way, pursuant to RCW 70.54.090;

(h) Any sign affixed to a fire hydrant, light pole, traffic light, traffic sign, government sign, or any other public facility within the ROW except as authorized herein;

(i) Any sign affixed to a tree; and

(j) No sign shall be used as a fence.

(2) Prohibited Sign Types.

(a) Portable or temporary signs except as allowed in PMC 20.60.070;

(b) Sail, feather, or paper signs;

(d) Inflatable signs over 10 feet in diameter;

(e) Signs which are an imitation of or resemble official traffic or government signs;

(f) Flashing signs or signs which sparkle or twinkle in sunlight;

(g) Billboards in any zone;

(h) Abandoned or dilapidated signs;

(i) Rotating or motion signs;

(j) Any sign with content or subject matter that constitutes obscenity as defined by law;

(k) Any sign displaying video or animations. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3010 § 3, 2012; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.025 Permit procedures.

The following regulations shall apply to all signs that require a permit pursuant to this chapter:

(1) Permit Requirements. No sign shall be installed, constructed, painted, structurally altered, posted, or applied without first obtaining a sign permit from the development services department, unless specifically exempted by this code. Maintenance or repair activities of lawfully established signs, such as repainting or refacing without increasing sign area, shall not require a permit. A single permit application may be filed for a group of signs proposed to be installed at one time.

(2) Permit Application Procedures. Applications for permanent signs shall include the appropriate items from the following list:

(a) A completed application on a form provided by the department;

(b) Two site plans showing the location of the affected lot, buildings(s) and sign(s), showing both existing and proposed signs;

(c) If the application is for a facade sign, two copies of a building elevation or photograph showing the location of the proposed sign on the structure;

(d) Two copies of a scaled drawing of the proposed sign or sign revision including size, height, copy, structural footing details, materials specifications, method of attachment, illumination, front and end views of marquees, calculation for dead load and wind pressure, and any other information required to ensure compliance with appropriate codes and laws;

(e) Written consent of the owner of the building, structure, or property where the sign is to be erected;

(f) Other information as may be necessary to evaluate the permit application;

(g) The requisite permit fee as adopted by resolution of the city council.

(3) Expiration of Permits. A sign permit for a permanent sign shall become null and void if the work for which the permit was issued has not been completed within six months of its issuance.

(4) Notice of Permit Denial. When a sign permit is denied by the director, the applicant shall be given a written notice of the denial, together with a brief written statement of the reasons for the denial, and advised of rights of appeal.

(5) Appeal from Denial of Permit Application. An appeal of the director’s decision to deny a permit application may be made to the hearing examiner by filing an appeal on forms provided by the department and paying the requisite appeal fee established by city council. Appeals shall be processed under the provisions of Chapter 20.87 PMC, Interpretations. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.030 General sign regulations.

The following general sign regulations shall apply to all signs not specifically exempted by this chapter:

(1) Measurement of Sign Area.

(a) The square footage of a sign made up of letters, words, symbols, trademarks and business or corporate colors within a frame shall be determined from the outside edge of the frame itself.

(b) The square footage of a sign composed of only letters, words, or symbols shall be determined from imaginary lines that form the smallest circle, triangle, rectangle, square, or parallelogram drawn around the entire copy or grouping of such letters, words, or symbols.

Parallelogram: a four-sided shape with both pairs of opposite sides parallel.

(d) Three-dimensional signs shall be calculated as the maximum area visible from any single direction at any point in time.

(e) A tenant located in a floor above lower tenants may count the same wall length in determining allowable facade signage.

(2) Sign Illumination. All sign illumination shall be from the interior or from floodlight projection shielded to preclude glare visible from public rights-of-way and neighboring properties.

(3) Building Code Compliance. The structure and installation of all signs shall comply with the latest adopted edition of the city’s building code. Such signs shall meet all other applicable provisions of this chapter.

(4) Condition and Maintenance. All signs shall be of rust-inhibitive material or treatment, and shall be maintained in good condition in the opinion of the code enforcement officer. All signs, together with all of their supports, braces, guys and anchors shall be kept in good repair and in a safe state of preservation. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 47, 2016; Ord. 3010 § 4, 2012; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.035 Permitted signs, by type and zoning district.

Table 20.60.035
Permitted Signs, by Type and Zoning District
Type of sign		RS, RM zones and ARO zone uses other than commercial uses	PF zone	MED, OP, CL zones	CBD, CBD- Core zones	CB, CG, ML, MR zones and ARO zone commercial uses	CCX, CMX, LMX, RMX, UCX zones	MP zone	FAIR zone
(1)	Backlit rigid canopy sign	N	P	P	N	P	N	P	P
(2)	Building identification	P*	P	P	P	P	P	P	P
(3)	Facade sign	P*	P	P	P	P	P	P	P
(4)	Full-color electronic message sign	N	P**	N	N	P**	N	N	P**
(5)	Pole sign	N	P	N	N	P	N	N	P
(6)	Monochrome electronic message sign	P*	P	N	N	P	N	N	P
(7)	Monument sign	P*	P	P	P	P	P	P	P
(8)	Permanent off-premises sign	N	N	N	N	N	N	N	N
(9)	Projecting sign	N	N	N	P	P	P	N	N
(10)	Residential development sign	P	P	P	P	P	P	N	N
(11)	Sheet plastic sign	P*	P	P	N	P	N	P	P
(12)	Temporary sign	P	P	P	P	P	P	P	P
(13)	Temporary off-premises sign	N	N	N	N	N	N	N	N
(14)	Under-canopy sign	N	P	P	P	P	P	P	P
(15)	Window sign	N	P	P	P	P	N	N	N

P = Allowed in Zone

N = Not Allowed in Zone

* Only Permitted for Specific Uses

** Only Permitted for Specific Uses along Primary Arterials

(Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 48, 2016; Ord. Ord. 3010 § 5, 2012; Ord. 2954 § 19, 2010; Ord. 2851 § 8, 2006; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2813 § 3, 2004; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2745 § 4, 2003; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.037 Specific sign requirements by use.

(1) Development Complexes. Signs within a development complex shall be subject to the following requirements:

(a) Business Signs. Each institution or business shall be permitted facade signs and no more than one projecting sign subject to the maximum size requirements set forth for the applicable zone. The tenant space width shall be used to determine maximum sign area; a tenant located in a floor above lower tenants may count the same wall length in determining allowable facade signage.

(b) Freestanding Signs. Each development complex shall be permitted one freestanding or monument development complex sign per public street frontage. The maximum permitted sign area for each development complex sign shall be as provided within the applicable zoning district, plus a bonus of 10 additional square feet per business or institution within the development complex; provided, that such bonus shall not exceed 50 percent of the base allowable sign area.

(2) Regional Shopping Centers. Regional shopping centers shall be allowed signs as follows, regardless of zoning designation:

(a) Freestanding Signs. One per public street frontage; one square foot in area per lineal foot of street frontage; not to exceed 225 square feet; height and setbacks as regulated by the CG zone;

(b) Monument Signs. One per public street frontage; not to exceed 64 square feet in area or 10 feet in height; may be electronic message signs;

(d) Freeway-Oriented Freestanding Sign. One per regional shopping center site; not to exceed 400 square feet in area with a bonus 25 percent area for nontext architectural features;

(e) All signs must comply with the standards contained within PMC 20.60.065. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020).

20.60.040 Special provisions for the RS and RM zones.

The following regulations apply to signs located on property in RS and RM zones:

(1) Facade and Monument Signs. The following signs shall be permitted in the RS and RM zone districts:

(a) Freestanding signs in all RS and RM zone districts are limited to monument signs only as allowed under PMC 20.60.035. Maximum height and setbacks for monument signs in all RS and RM zone districts shall conform to PMC 20.60.065(5).

(b) Residential Development Signs. Residential developments of four or more dwelling units are permitted one monument or facade sign for each public street frontage adjacent to the project (or for each entrance in the case of a subdivision project). Maximum sign area for each sign shall not exceed 25 square feet in area.

(c) Legal nonconforming or conditionally permitted commercial and institutional uses in all RS and RM zone districts shall be permitted one facade sign and one monument sign per public street frontage (see PMC 20.60.065(5)), not to exceed a combined total of 25 square feet in area for every 150 feet of public street frontage. For frontage greater than 150 feet, one square foot of additional sign area shall be allowed for each six feet of frontage up to a maximum of 40 square feet.

(d) One nonilluminated sign, not exceeding eight square feet in area, monument or facade, shall be allowed for each adult family home, boarding home, residential care facility, and family day care home not requiring a conditional use permit for establishment of use.

(e) Home Occupations. One nameplate sign (no larger than six square feet in area), mounted flush against the wall of the residence, shall be allowed for all home occupations.

(f) Bed and Breakfast Houses. No exterior signage is permitted other than a single sign not to exceed eight square feet in area.

(2) Electronic Message Signs. Conditionally permitted, nonresidential uses in an R zone shall be permitted, but limited to one monochrome electronic message sign if the subject site has frontage on a primary or secondary arterial and said sign is located along the frontage of or facing toward a primary or secondary arterial roadway.

(3) Sign Illumination. Illuminated signage is only permitted when reviewed and specifically authorized through the conditional use permit process for a conditionally permitted nonresidential use. Signs may be illuminated by an external light source that is placed no further than 10 feet from the sign face and is shielded to avoid illumination beyond the sign face. Light sources shall be shielded so that the lamp is not visible beyond the premises.

(4) Prohibited Signs in the RS and RM Zones. The following sign types are prohibited:

(a) Backlit rigid canopy signs;

(b) Full color electronic message signs;

(d) Permanent or temporary off-premises signs;

(e) Projecting signs;

(f) Under-canopy signs;

(g) Window signs. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 49, 2016; Ord. 3010 § 6, 2012; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.045 Special provisions for the CBD and CBD-Core zones.

The following regulations apply to signs located on property in the CBD and CBD-Core zones:

Table 20.60.045: CBD and CBD-Core Zones
	Sign Type	Standard
		Number (Max)	Height (Max)	Width (Max)	Area (Max)
(1)	Facade Signsb	Unlimited, subject to the max size limits and other limits outlined herein	Cannot extend over roof of building to which it is attached	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of the building wall from which the sign is attached
(2)	Freestanding Signs (Other Than Monument Signs)	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(3)	Monument Signsa,b	1 monument or projecting sign per street frontage Only one of these sign types is allowed per street frontage (either monument or projecting)	Monument signs shall be no greater in height than one foot above the adjoining finished grade for each foot of setback to a maximum of 10 ft.	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each lineal ft. of street frontage Not to exceed 64 sq. ft.
(4)	Projecting Signsc	1 projecting or monument sign per street frontage Only one of these sign types is allowed per street frontage (either monument or projecting)	May project over the ROW max of 4 ft. Projecting parallel signs may project over ROW, provided such signs shall not extend more than 1 ft. beyond the wall of the building	Shall not extend to within 2 ft. of the street curb or the improved shoulder edge Projecting signs with less than 15 ft. clearance above the ROW shall not extend into or occupy more than 2/3 the width of the sidewalk	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of building wall from which the sign projects Not to exceed 25 sq. ft.
(5)	Under-Canopy Signs	1 sign per street frontage	The minimum vertical clearance between the lower edge of an under-canopy sign and the ground shall be 8 ft.	Equal to the width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall. Except that under-canopy signs with less than 15 ft. clearance above the ROW shall not extend into or occupy more than 2/3 the width of the sidewalk	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall
(6)	Electronic Message Signs	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(7)	End Notes
	a Monument signs shall conform to the additional performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(5).
	b Multiple businesses in the same building shall apportion facade length, building wall, and street frontage such that any maximum is not exceeded for a particular property.
	c Projecting signs shall not impede free and complete use of the sidewalk for pedestrians.

(8) Prohibited Signs in the CBD and CBD-Core Zones. The following sign types are prohibited:

(a) Backlit canopy signs;

(b) Full-color and monochrome electronic message signs, except as exempted in PMC 20.60.010(1); and

(c) Pole signs. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3010 § 7, 2012; Ord. 2851 § 8, 2006; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.047 Special provisions for the CCX, CMX, LMX, RMX, and UCX zones.

The following regulations apply to signs located on property in the MX zones:

Table 20.60.047: Special Sign Regulations for the CCX, CMX,
LMX, RMX, and UCX Zones
	Sign Type	Standard
		Number (Max)	Height (Max)	Width (Max)	Area (Max)
(1)	Facade Signsb	Unlimited, subject to the max size limits and other limits outlined herein	Cannot extend over roof or extend above the roofline of building to which it is attached	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of the building wall from which the sign is attached
(2)	Freestanding Signs (Other Than Monument Signs)	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(3)	Monument Signsa,b	1 monument or projecting sign per street frontage Only one of these sign types is allowed per street frontage	Monument signs shall be no greater in height than one foot above the adjoining finished grade for each foot of setback to a maximum of 10 ft.	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each lineal ft. of street frontage Not to exceed 125 sq. ft.
(4)	Projecting Signsc	1 projecting or monument sign per street frontage Only one of these sign types is allowed per street frontage	May project over the ROW max of 4 ft. Projecting parallel signs may project over ROW, provided such signs shall not extend more than 1 ft. beyond the wall of the building	Shall not extend to within 2 ft. of the street curb or the improved shoulder edge Projecting signs with less than 15 ft. clearance above the ROW shall not extend into or occupy more than 2/3 the width of the sidewalk	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of building wall from which the sign projects Not to exceed 25 sq. ft.
(5)	Under-Canopy Signs	1 sign per street frontage	The minimum vertical clearance between the lower edge of an under-canopy sign and the ground shall be 8 ft.	Equal to the width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall. Except that under-canopy signs with less than 15 ft. clearance above the ROW shall not extend into or occupy more than 2/3 the width of the sidewalk	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall
(6)	Electronic Message Signs	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(7)	End Notes
	a Monument signs shall conform to the additional performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(5).
	b Multiple businesses in the same building shall apportion facade length, building wall, and street frontage such that any maximum is not exceeded for a particular property.
	c Projecting signs shall not impede free and complete use of the sidewalk for pedestrians.

(8) Prohibited Signs in the MX Zones. The following sign types are prohibited:

(a) Backlit canopy signs;

(b) Full-color and monochrome electronic message signs, except as exempted in PMC 20.60.010(1);

(d) Sheet plastic signs; and

(e) Window signs. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3010 § 8, 2012; Ord. 2954 § 20, 2010).

20.60.050 Special provisions for the MED, OP and CL zones.

The following regulations shall apply to signs located on property in the MED, OP and CL zones:

Table 20.60.050: MED, OP and CL Zones
	Sign Type	Standard
		Number (Max)	Height (Max)	Width (Max)	Area (Max)
(1)	Facade Signsb	Unlimited, subject to the max size limits and other limits outlined herein	Cannot extend over the roof or roofline of building to which it is attached	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of the building wall from which the sign is attached
(2)	Freestanding Signs (Other Than Monument Signs)	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(3)	Monument Signsa,b	1 per street frontage	Monument signs shall be no greater in height than one foot above the adjoining finished grade for each foot of setback to a maximum of 10 ft.	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each 5 lineal ft. of street frontage Not to exceed 64 sq. ft.
(4)	Projecting Signs	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(5)	Under-Canopy Signsb	1 sign per street frontage	The minimum vertical clearance between the lower edge of an under-canopy sign and the ground shall be 8 ft.	Equal to the width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall. Except that under-canopy signs with less than 15 ft. clearance above the ROW shall not extend into or occupy more than 2/3 the width of the sidewalk	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall
(6)	Electronic Message Signs	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(7)	End Notes
	a Monument signs shall conform to the additional performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(5).
	b Multiple businesses in the same building shall apportion facade length, building wall, and street frontage such that any maximum is not exceeded for a particular property.

(8) Prohibited Signs in the MED, OP and CL Zones. The following sign types are prohibited:

(a) Pole signs; and

(b) Full-color and monochrome electronic message signs, except as exempted in PMC 20.60.010(1); and

(c) Projecting signs. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 50, 2016; Ord. 3010 § 9, 2012; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2745 § 4, 2003; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.052 Special provisions for the MP zone.

The following regulations shall apply to signs located on property in the MP zone:

(1) A master signage plan pursuant to PMC 20.60.037(1) shall be required of every business park development prior to the installation of any signs;

(2) In addition to signs allowed for individual businesses, each business park shall be permitted one monument sign per street frontage, subject to the provisions of PMC 20.60.065(5);

(3) Each sign shall be designed in a consistent style which blends with the overall architectural theme of the park as required in PMC 20.35.031.

Table 20.60.052: MP Zone
	Sign Type	Standard
		Number (Max)	Height (Max)	Width (Max)	Area (Max)
(4)	Facade Signsb	Unlimited, subject to the max size limits and other limits outlined herein	Cannot extend over roof of building to which it is attached	N/A	2 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of the building wall from which the sign is attached Not to exceed 40 sq. ft.
(5)	Freestanding Signs (Other Than Monument Signs)b	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(6)	Monument Signsa,b	1 monument sign per street frontage	Sign height shall not exceed greater than 3.5 ft. above grade when located within a required setback area or 15 ft. when located outside of a required setback area	N/A	100 sq. ft.
(7)	Projecting Signsc	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(8)	Under-Canopy Signsb	1 sign per street frontage	The minimum vertical clearance between the lower edge of an under-canopy sign and the ground shall be 8 ft.	Equal to the width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall. Except that under-canopy signs with less than 15 ft. clearance above the ROW shall not extend into or occupy more than 2/3 the width of the sidewalk	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall
(9)	Electronic Message Signs	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(10)	End Notes
	a Monument signs shall conform to the additional performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(5).
	b Multiple businesses in the same building shall apportion facade length, building wall, and street frontage such that any maximum is not exceeded for a particular property.
	c Projecting signs shall not impede free and complete use of the sidewalk for pedestrians.

(11) Monument signs are the only types of freestanding signs which shall be allowed subject to the standards listed in Table 20.60.052.

(12) Prohibited Signs in MP. The following sign types are prohibited:

(a) Pole signs;

(b) Full-color and monochrome electronic message signs, except as exempted in PMC 20.60.010(1);

(d) Window signs. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 51, 2016; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.055 Special provisions for the CB, CG, ML and MR zones.

The following regulations shall apply to signs located on property in the CB, CG, ML and MR zones, in addition to the regulations for the Shaw-East Pioneer Overlay of PMC 20.60.061(3); also provided, that if a site is part of a development complex, the provisions of PMC 20.60.037(1) shall apply:

Table 20.60.055: CB, CG, ML, and MR Zones
	Sign Type	Standard
		Number (Max)	Height (Max)	Width (Max)	Area (Max)
(1)	Facade Signsb	Unlimited, subject to the max size limits and other limits outlined herein	Cannot extend over roof or roofline of building to which it is attached	N/A	1.5 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of the building wall from which the sign is attached
(2)	Freestanding Signsb,d	1 freestanding or projecting or monument sign per street frontage. Only 1 of these sign types is allowed per street frontage A freestanding sign shall not be located closer than 50 ft. from another freestanding sign located upon another premises; provided, that this shall not prohibit the ability to place 1 freestanding sign upon a premises that would otherwise have a right to such a sign A freestanding sign located within 40 ft. of a property line abutting a street right-of-way shall not be located closer than 100 ft. from another freestanding sign on the same premises	Pole signs shall not exceed 15 ft. in height at a line coinciding with required front yard or street side yard setbacks as defined in PMC 20.60.065(4). For each additional 1 ft. of setback beyond required front yard or street side yard setbacks, free-standing sign height may be increased 1 ft.; provided, that in no event shall a free-standing sign exceed 36 ft. in height	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each lineal ft of street frontage. Cannot exceed 150 sq. ft. per sign
(3)	Monument Signsa,b	1 monument, or projecting or freestanding sign per street frontage Only 1 of these sign types is allowed per street frontage (freestanding, monument or projecting)	1 ft. above the adjoining finished grade for each foot of setback to a max of 10 ft.	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each 5 lineal ft. of street frontage. Cannot exceed 150 sq. ft. per sign
(4)	Projecting signsb,c	1 projecting, monument or freestanding sign per street frontage. Only 1 of these sign types is allowed per street frontage (freestanding, monument or projecting)	The minimum vertical clearance between the lower edge of the projecting sign and the ground shall be 8 ft.	Shall not extend to within 2 ft. of the street curb or the improved shoulder edge. Projecting signs with less than 15 ft. clearance above the ROW shall not extend into or occupy more than 2/3 the width of the sidewalk	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of building wall from which the sign projects Cannot exceed 25 sq. ft. per sign
(5)	Under-Canopy Signsb	1 sign per street frontage	The minimum vertical clearance between the lower edge of an under-canopy sign and the ground shall be 8 ft.	Equal to the width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall. Except that under-canopy signs with less than 15 ft. clearance above the ROW shall not extend into or occupy more than 2/3 the width of the sidewalk	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall
(6)	Electronic Message Signsb	1 sign per site or development complex 1 additional sign shall be permitted if the following conditions exist: The second sign is located along or facing a separate primary arterial abutting the site or development complex; and The second sign is located a minimum of 500 ft. from the first permitted electronic message sign on the same site and is 250 ft. from an electronic message sign located on another premises	Electronic message signs can only be monument type signs See height requirements for monument signs	See width requirements for monument signs in table above	See size limits for monument signs in table above
(7)	Other Requirements	Full-color electronic message signs may only be located along the frontage of or facing a primary arterial. Monochrome electronic signage may be located along the frontage of a primary or secondary arterial or collector. Electronic message sign may not be oriented toward a controlled access highway. Electronic message signs must conform to the performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(3).
(8)	End Notes
	a Monument signs shall conform to the additional performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(5).
	b Multiple businesses in the same building shall apportion facade length, building wall, and street frontage such that any maximum is not exceeded for a particular property.
	c Projecting signs shall not impede free and complete use of the sidewalk for pedestrians.
	d Freestanding signs (including pole signs) shall conform to the additional performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(4).

(Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3010 § 10, 2012; Ord. 2954 § 21, 2010; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.058 Special provisions for the PF zone.

The following regulations shall apply to signs located on property in the PF zone, unless otherwise approved through a conditional use permit or master plan:

Table 20.60.058: PF Zone
	Sign Type	Standard
		Number (Max)	Height (Max)	Width (Max)	Area (Max)
(1)	Facade Signsa	Unlimited, subject to the max size limits and other limits outlined herein	Cannot extend over roof of building to which it is attached	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of the building from which the sign is attached. Cannot exceed 40 sq. ft. per building wall
(2)	Freestanding Signsb,d	Unlimited. A freestanding sign shall not be located closer than 50 ft. from another freestanding sign located upon another premises; provided, that this shall not prohibit the ability to place 1 freestanding sign upon a premises that would otherwise have a right to such a sign A freestanding sign located within 40 ft. of a property line abutting a street right-of-way shall not be located closer than 100 ft. from another freestanding sign on the same premises	Pole signs shall not exceed 15 ft. in height at a line coinciding with required front yard or street side yard setbacks as defined in PMC 20.60.065(4). For each additional 1 ft. of setback beyond required front yard or street side yard setbacks, free-standing sign height may be increased 1 ft.; provided, that in no event shall a free-standing sign exceed 36 ft. in height	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each 5 lineal ft. of street frontage. Cannot exceed 40 sq. ft.
(3)	Monument Signsa,b	1 sign per site	1 ft. above the adjoining finished grade for each foot of setback to a max of 10 ft.	N/A	40 sq. ft.
(4)	Projecting Signs	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(5)	Under-Canopy Signsa	1 sign per street frontage	The minimum vertical clearance between the lower edge of an under-canopy sign and the ground shall be 8 ft.	Equal to the width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall. Except that under-canopy signs with less than 15 ft. clearance above the ROW shall not extend into or occupy more than 2/3 the width of the sidewalk	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of width of the canopy, awning, marquee or similar structure from which the sign is suspended, as measured perpendicular to the building wall
(6)	Electronic Message Signs	1 sign per site or development complex. 1 additional sign shall be permitted if the following conditions exist: The second sign is located along or facing a separate primary arterial abutting the site or development complex; and The second sign is located a minimum of 500 ft. from the first permitted electronic message sign on the same site and is 250 ft. from an electronic message sign located on another premises	See height requirements for specific sign type (ex. pole type electronic message sign see height limits for pole signs)	See width requirements for specific sign type	See size limits for specific sign type
(7)	Other Requirements	Full-color electronic message signs may only be located along the frontage of a primary arterial. Monochrome electronic signage may only be located along the frontage of a primary or secondary arterial or collector. Electronic message signs may not be oriented toward a controlled access highway. Electronic message signs must conform to the performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(3).
(8)	End Notes
	a Monument signs shall conform to the additional performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(5).
	b Multiple businesses in the same building shall apportion facade length, building wall, and street frontage such that any maximum is not exceeded for a particular property.
	c Projecting signs shall not impede free and complete use of the sidewalk for pedestrians.
	d Freestanding signs (including pole signs) shall conform to the additional performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(4).

(Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3010 § 11, 2012; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2813 § 3, 2004).

20.60.059 Special provisions for the ARO zone.

The following limitations and regulations shall apply to signs located on property in the ARO zone:

(1) All signs within the ARO zones shall conform with the sign requirements for the RS zones in PMC 20.60.040, except that signs for commercial uses permitted in Table 20.36.015 shall comply with the sign standards of the limited commercial (CL) zone in PMC 20.60.050;

(2) During any spray operations, farmers may post city-approved caution signs on city right-of-way that read “Caution – Spraying in Progress” or other warnings that may be required by other agencies, without obtaining a permit. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020).

20.60.060 Special provisions for the FAIR zone.

The following limitations and regulations shall apply to signs located on property in the FAIR zone:

(1) No provision of this code shall apply within the FAIR zone during the annual spring and fall fair events.

Table 20.60.060(2): FAIR Zone
	Sign Type	Standard
		Number (Max)	Height (Max)	Width (Max)	Area (Max)
(2)	Facade Signs	Unlimited, subject to the max size limits and other limits outlined herein	Cannot extend over roof or roofline of building to which it is attached	N/A	400 sq. ft. per public street frontage
(3)	Freestanding Signsa	Unlimited, subject to the max size limits and other limits outlined herein. A freestanding sign shall not be located closer than 50 ft. from another freestanding sign located upon another premises; provided, that this shall not prohibit the ability to place 1 freestanding sign upon a premises that would otherwise have a right to such a sign A freestanding sign located within 40 ft. of a property line abutting a street right-of-way shall not be located closer than 100 ft. from another freestanding sign on the same premises	Pole signs shall not exceed 15 ft. in height at a line coinciding with required front yard or street side yard setbacks as defined in PMC 20.60.065(4). For each additional 1 ft. of setback beyond required front yard or street side yard setbacks, free-standing sign height may be increased 1 ft.; provided, that in no event shall a free-standing sign exceed 36 ft. in height. A maximum of one freestanding sign may exceed the building height limitation of the FAIR zone	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of street frontage, not to exceed 250 sq. ft. each
(4)	Monument Signsb	1 sign per street frontage	1 ft. above the adjoining finished grade for each foot of setback to a max of 10 ft.	N/A	1 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of street frontage, not to exceed 250 sq. ft. each
(5)	Projecting Signs	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted	Not permitted
(6)	Pennants	Unlimited	3.5 ft. above the adjoining grade	N/A	N/A
(7)	Electronic Message Signsc	1 sign per site or development complex. 1 additional sign shall be permitted if the following conditions exist: The second sign is located along or facing a separate primary arterial abutting the site or development complex; and The second sign is located a minimum of 500 ft. from the first permitted electronic message sign on the same site and is 250 ft. from an electronic message sign located on another premises	Electronic message signs can only be monument type signs See height requirements for monument signs	See width requirements for monument signs	See size limits for monument signs
(8)	Other Requirements	Full-color electronic message signs may only be located along the frontage or facing toward a primary arterial. Monochrome electronic signage may be located along the frontage of a primary or secondary arterial or collector. Sign may not be oriented toward a controlled access highway.
(9)	End Notes
	a Freestanding signs (including pole signs) shall conform to the additional performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(4).
	b Monument signs shall conform to the additional performance standards of PMC 20.60.065(5).

(10) Prohibited Signs in FAIR Zone.

(a) Projecting signs;

(b) Window signs;

(c) Residential development signs. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 52, 2016; Ord. 3010 § 12, 2012; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.061 Special provisions for the fair parking, agricultural, mixed-use design review, and Shaw-East Pioneer overlays.

The following regulations are in addition to the sign code provisions for the underlying zone of the property. Where there is conflict between the two regulations, this section shall rule.

(1) Agricultural Overlay Zone. All signs within the AGO zones shall conform with the sign requirements of the underlying zone. In addition, during any spray operations, farmers may post city-approved caution signs on city right-of-way that read “Caution – Spraying in Progress” or other warnings that may be required by other agencies, without obtaining a permit.

(2) Fair Parking Overlay Zone.

(a) Pennants. Pennants are allowed but must not exceed three and one-half feet above the adjoining grade.

(3) Shaw-East Pioneer Overlay Zone.

(a) CB-SPO and CG-SPO. CB-SPO and CG-SPO shall follow the CBD zone sign standards of PMC 20.60.045. If a master sign plan exists for a development, those regulations shall rule.

(b) ML-SPO. Limited manufacturing zones within the Shaw-East Pioneer overlay (ML-SPO) shall conform to the sign standards for the underlying zone. Additionally, all freestanding signage shall be of a monument style and no electronic display signs are permitted. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020).

20.60.062 Special provisions for planned developments.

The following sign regulations apply to properties within the boundaries of an approved final planned development:

(1) The sign regulations in a planned development shall not be limited by the requirements of this chapter, but shall be allowed as proposed in a master sign plan.

(2) If a master sign plan has not been approved for the planned development, sign regulations shall revert to the sign regulations for the zone of the subject parcel. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.065 Specific sign requirements by sign type.

The following specific sign regulations shall apply to all signs as permitted herein and not specifically exempted by PMC 20.60.010:

(1) Reserved.

(2) Building Identification Signs. One building identification sign for each building shall be permitted; provided, that no such sign shall exceed 25 square feet in area.

(3) Standards for Electronic Message Signs.

Table 20.60.065(3): Standards for Electronic Message Signs

The following performance standards shall apply to all electronic message signs:
Standard		Description
(a)	Message Frequency	Messages shall not blink or flash or change their message more frequently than once every two seconds. Electronic sign operators are strongly encouraged to consider utilizing a longer static image display time period than the minimum two seconds.
(b)	Message Transition Time	Signs shall transition between static images immediately as to prevent drawn out frame animations which may result in the illusion of motion.
(c)	Brightness Level	Max 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light levels. All electronic message signs shall come equipped with an automatic dimming photocell device which will automatically adjust the display’s brightness based on preset levels relative to ambient light conditions. Signs shall also be preset to prevent luminance beyond 5,000 nits during daylight hours and 500 nits at night.i
(d)	Off-Times	Signs shall be equipped with an automatic timer that will be set to the following off-time standards: RS, RM, PF zones or on nonresidential property within 300 feet of any residential development where electronic message sign will be visible within five years of installation, electronic signs shall be shut off between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
(e)	Dispersal	One electronic message sign shall be permitted on each site or development complex.	One additional shall be permitted if the following conditions exist: The second sign is located along or facing a separate primary arterial abutting the site or development complex; and The second sign is located a minimum of 500 feet from the first permitted electronic message sign on the same site and is 250 feet from an electronic message sign located on another premises.ii
(f)	Freestanding Electronic Message Signs	Freestanding electronic message signs shall be monument signs only except for signs within the public facilities (PF) zone may also be a pole sign.
(g)	Animation or Video Prohibited	Electronic message signs shall be used to display one static image for no less than the minimum time period specified herein before moving on to another static image display.iii
(h)	Malfunctioning Sign	In the event that a sign is malfunctioning, the owner of said sign shall turn the sign off until such time that the sign is repaired and functioning correctly in compliance with this section.
(i)	Controlled Access Highway	No electronic message sign shall be oriented towards a controlled access highway facility.
	End Notes
	i Prior to the issuance of a sign permit, the applicant shall provide written certification from the sign manufacturer/installer, reviewed and signed by the owner of the sign, that the light intensity has been factory preset not to exceed 0.3 foot-candles or the above referenced nits levels and that those settings are protected from end-user manipulation by password-protected software or other method as deemed appropriate by the director.
	ii The bonus provision herein shall not apply if these spacing and location criteria cannot be met. Spacing standard provisions of subsections (4)(e) and (f) of this section shall also apply.
	iii Displays shall not appear to flash, undulate, pulse, or portray explosions, imitate any form of traffic control device, display fireworks, flashes of light, or blinking or chasing lights. Displays shall not appear to move toward or away from the viewer, expand or contract, bounce, rotate, spin, twist, or otherwise portray graphics, video or animation as it moves onto, is displayed on, or leaves the signboard.

(4) Pole Freestanding Signs.

(a) Height. The height of a pole freestanding sign shall be measured from the elevation of the crown of the nearest public street, to the highest point on the freestanding sign or its supporting structure. Pole signs shall not exceed 15 feet in height at a line coinciding with required front yard or street side yard setbacks as shown in the table below. For each additional one foot of setback beyond required front yard or street side yard setbacks, pole sign height may be increased one foot; provided, that in no event shall a pole sign exceed 36 feet in height.

(b) Setbacks. All pole freestanding signs exceeding four feet in height shall comply with the setback requirements as provided for in this subsection. All setbacks shall be measured from the nearest point of the sign to the closest property line(s).

Nonresidential Setbacks
	Limited Commercial (CL)	Community Business (CB)	General Commercial (CG)	Office Professional (OP)	Light, Rail Manuf. (ML), (MR)
Front yard	20'	10'	20'	20'	20'
Arterials	25'	25'	25'	20'	20'
Rear yard	20'	10'	0'	20'	0'
Side yard	10'	0'	0'	5'	0'
Street side	15'	10'	10'	15'	10'
	Public Facilities (PF)	Business Park (MP)	Central Business (CBD/CBD-CORE)	Mixed Use Zones (MX)	FAIR
Front yard	*	**	**	**	***
Arterials	*	**	**	**	***
Rear yard	*	**	**	**	***
Side yard	*	**	**	**	***
Street side	*	**	**	**	***

* See PMC 20.44.020 for setback regulations in the PF zone district.

** No pole-mounted freestanding signs allowed in these zone districts.

*** See PMC 20.47.020 for setback regulations in the FAIR zone.

(c) Landscaping. Landscaping around the base of a freestanding sign shall be required in those instances where a sign is proposed for placement within or adjacent to an existing landscaped area on a site. Landscaping shall include a mix of groundcovers and shrubs.

(d) Placement of pole freestanding signs shall not interfere with any vehicular sight-distance requirements, as determined by the city engineer, nor shall it interfere with any pedestrian access.

(e) A freestanding sign shall not be located closer than 50 feet from another freestanding sign located upon another premises; provided, that this subsection shall not prohibit the ability to place one freestanding sign upon a premises that would otherwise have a right to such a sign; nor shall this subsection be applied in a manner that would require a setback for such freestanding sign in excess of what would otherwise be required by this chapter.

(f) A freestanding sign located within 40 feet of a property line abutting a street right-of-way shall not be located closer than 100 feet from another freestanding sign on the same premises.

(g) Address Display Required. All freestanding signage shall display the full address of the subject site or range of addresses within a development complex, placed in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. The address letters and numbers shall contrast with their background. Addresses shall be displayed using Arabic numerals/alphabet letters. Address numbers shall be a minimum of six inches high with a minimum stroke of one-half inch for freestanding signs within 50 feet of the closest public right-of-way, 12 inches high for freestanding signs that are 51 feet to 100 feet from the closest public right-of-way and 18 inches high for freestanding signs that are over 100 feet from the closest public right-of-way.

(5) Monument Signs. Unless otherwise stated in this chapter, monument signs in all zones are subject to the following provisions:

(a) The height of a monument sign shall be measured from the finished grade immediately abutting the base of the sign; in no event shall a monument sign be installed on an earthen berm, retaining wall or otherwise artificially created/graded surface as to elevate it above the surrounding landscape in an effort to exceed the maximum height for monument signs set forth herein.

(b) Height and Setbacks for Monument Signs. Monument signs shall be allowed within the setback areas of a property if they meet the following standards:

(i) Monument signs shall be set back at least five feet from the public right-of-way, regardless of the setback requirement of the zone.

(ii) Monument signs shall be no greater in height than one foot above the adjoining finished grade for each foot of setback to a maximum of 10 feet in height.

(iii) Placement of monument signs shall not interfere with any vehicular sight-distance requirements, as determined by the city engineer, nor shall it interfere with any pedestrian access.

(c) Monument signs shall incorporate the same building materials in their design as the building to which they apply or an approved alternative high-quality material (e.g., stone veneer).

(d) Monument signs which do not encroach into required front or side yard setbacks shall conform with the requirements for freestanding signs for the applicable zone.

(e) Landscaping. Landscaping around the base of a monument sign shall be required in those instances where a sign is proposed for placement within or adjacent to an existing landscaped area on a site. Landscaping shall include a mix of groundcovers and shrubs. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 53, 2016; Ord. 3073 § 32, 2014; Ord. 3010 § 13, 2012; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.067 Signs in the right-of-way (ROW).

The following regulations shall apply to all signs in the ROW except those exempted from regulations in PMC 20.60.010:

(1) Temporary signs shall be allowed in the ROW only if they conform to the following regulations:

(a) Temporary signs authorized under this section shall be allowed in the ROW with no time limit imposed.

(b) Temporary signs shall not be placed in a manner that creates a safety hazard or obstructs vehicle or pedestrian traffic, or violates Chapter 10.56 PMC, which governs triangular sight areas.

(c) Freestanding Temporary Signs, Except Sandwich Board Signs. Freestanding temporary signs shall be allowed in the ROW abutting all zones with the exception that no freestanding temporary signs shall be allowed in the curb extension planting strips in the ROW abutting parcels within the CBD-Core zone. For the purposes of this regulation the abutting ROW shall be measured from the property line to the centerline of the ROW. All signs must meet the following standards:

(i) Freestanding temporary signs shall not exceed eight square feet in area and shall not exceed three and one-half feet (42 inches) in height.

(ii) Freestanding temporary signs must be placed in parking or planting strips, i.e., the area between the sidewalk and the street, or where there are no sidewalks, the unimproved part of the ROW.

(iii) Freestanding temporary signs are not allowed within travel lanes, medians, or round-abouts.

(iv) No sign shall be located closer than two feet from the face of curb to the nearest sign edge or six feet from the edge of pavement to the nearest sign edge along roadways with no curb.

(v) Signs shall not encroach into any portion of a handicapped ramp.

(vi) Signs shall have at least four feet of clearance to ensure they do not block a sidewalk.

(d) Sandwich Board Signs.

(i) Sandwich board signs shall not exceed eight square feet in area on each side, for a total of 16 square feet in area.

(ii) Sandwich board signs shall not exceed three and one-half feet (42 inches) in height.

(iii) Sandwich board signs shall be permitted within public rights-of-way only where the ROW abuts a RS, RM, C or M zone, except that no sandwich board signs shall be allowed in the curb extension planting strips in the ROW abutting parcels within the CBD-Core zone. For the purposes of this regulation the abutting ROW shall be measured from the property line to the centerline of the ROW.

(iv) Commercial signs shall only be displayed during the hours the commercial premises or business is open to the general public, but in any event no earlier than 9:00 a.m. or later than 7:00 p.m. (7:00 a.m. or later than 7:00 p.m. in C and M zones), and shall be removed from the right-of-way between the hours of 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m.

(v) Due to the temporary nature of the sign(s) and the requirement for daily placement and removal in accordance with the requirements set forth in subsection (1)(d)(iv) of this section, it shall be the responsibility of the sign owner to ensure proper placement. City staff is authorized to immediately remove and destroy any signs found to be in violation of the requirements of this section.

(vi) Sandwich board signs must be placed in parking or planting strips, i.e., the area between the sidewalk and the street, or where there are no sidewalks, the unimproved part of the ROW.

(vii) Sandwich board signs shall have at least four feet of clearance to ensure that they do not block a sidewalk.

(viii) Sandwich board signs shall not encroach into any portion of a handicapped ramp.

(ix) Sandwich board signs are not allowed within travel lanes, medians, or round-abouts.

(x) No sign shall be located closer than two feet from the face of curb to the nearest sign edge or six feet from the edge of pavement to the nearest sign edge along roadways with no curb. (Ord. 3215 § 1, 2020; Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020).

20.60.070 Temporary signs not in the ROW.

The following regulations shall apply to all signs intended or permitted to be displayed for a limited time only. Temporary signs shall not count toward the maximum sign area of permanent signs:

(1) Freestanding temporary signs, including sandwich board signs, shall be allowed on property outside of the ROW subject to the following standards:

(a) Freestanding temporary signs shall be permitted in all zones.

(b) Freestanding temporary signs shall not exceed eight square feet in area and shall not exceed three and one-half feet (42 inches) in height.

(c) If a political sign is placed in a parking or planting strip, permission of the abutting property owner or person having legal control of the abutting property shall be obtained.

(d) Freestanding temporary signs shall not be placed in a manner that creates a safety hazard or obstructs vehicle or pedestrian traffic as determined by the city traffic engineer, or violates Chapter 10.56 PMC, which governs triangular sight areas.

(2) Temporary Use/Stand Signs. A site containing a permitted temporary use or stand shall be allowed additional temporary signage, subject to the following standards:

(a) Individual signs shall not exceed 32 square feet in area.

(b) All signs associated with temporary uses or stands shall be located on the premises of the permitted temporary use or stand and shall be located outside of structural setback areas and required landscaped areas for the applicable zone and shall not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular movement.

(d) Only one sign shall be permitted per public street frontage directly abutting that area containing the permitted temporary use or stand.

(e) The temporary use or stand shall comply with all permitting requirements and standards of PMC Title 5 and Chapter 20.70 PMC. Applications for said use or stand shall specifically denote the proposed signage.

(f) All signs shall be located outside of structural setback areas and required landscaped areas for the applicable zone and shall not be placed in a manner that creates a safety hazard or obstructs vehicle or pedestrian traffic as determined by the city traffic engineer, or violates Chapter 10.56 PMC, which governs triangular sight areas.

(3) Properties Offered for Sale.

(a) In addition to any other permitted signs, each property (in any zone) offered for sale or rental may display a temporary on-premises sign, limited to the following size requirements:

(i) Four square feet in area for the first 10,000 square feet in lot area; plus

(ii) An additional four square feet for each additional 10,000 square feet of lot area, not to exceed 32 square feet.

(b) Residential subdivisions that contain lots for sale or rent shall be permitted one sign per entrance, in addition to the signs permitted in subsection (3)(a) of this section, limited to the following requirements:

(i) Maximum of 32 square feet;

(ii) Maximum of eight feet in height;

(iii) Erected no longer than a period of one year.

(4) Properties under Construction. In addition to any other permitted signs, each property (in any zone) under active construction shall be permitted one on-premises sign, limited to the following requirements:

(a) Residential zones: maximum of 12 square feet;

(b) Nonresidential zones: 32 square feet.

(5) Banner and Other Temporary Signs.

(a) All banner signs must be attached to the facade, wall or window of a building or to a fence. Banners may be placed on poles only in the CG, M, and FAIR zones as allowed in subsection (5)(d) of this section.

(b) Banners (other than banners on poles) cannot exceed 50 percent of the size of the permitted facade sign area for the applicable zone.

(c) The number of banners (other than banners on poles) cannot exceed two banners for every 600 lineal feet of street frontage.

(d) Banners Attached to Poles. Banners may only be attached to poles in the CG, M and FAIR zones. Banners attached to poles shall not exceed 25 square feet of sign area per pole. Banners may be double sided, but sign area shall be measured for only one side. Banners on poles have no quantity limit.

(e) Banners shall not count towards the total allowable sign area for a particular property.

(f) Balloons shall not exceed a height above grade of eight feet. On weekends only balloons shall not exceed a height above grade of 75 feet, provided they shall be anchored/tethered from all property lines one foot for each foot in height. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3015 § 1, 2012; Ord. 2866 § 8, 2006; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2704 § 1, 2001; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.075 Nonconforming signs.

Signs lawfully in existence as of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter may remain and be maintained, even if a particular sign would not otherwise be permitted under this code. Whenever a business, person, enterprise or institution for which existing signage does not conform to the requirements of this chapter seeks to structurally alter or enlarge an existing sign, or erect or install a new sign, the provisions of this section shall apply.

(1) In the event a nonconforming sign is removed, replaced, or structurally altered, pursuant to installation of a new sign, all applicable sections of the Puyallup sign ordinance (this chapter) shall apply to the new proposal. The alteration or enlargement of existing signs shall not increase the degree of nonconformity, in terms of number, size, height, setback or any other applicable regulation.

(2) The provisions of subsection (1) of this section do not apply to temporary signs or to illegal signs. Temporary signs that do not comply with the requirements of this chapter, and other illegal signs, shall be removed within 30 days after notification of the city of the sign’s nonconformity.

(3) Billboards which do not conform to the requirements of this chapter shall be removed, altered or replaced so as to fully conform to the requirements of this chapter within nine years after the date of installing the billboard, or six years after notification of the city of the billboard’s nonconformity, whichever is longer, or at whatever time application is made for building or other permits for improvements to the property which exceed $60,000 in value. Nonconforming billboards shall not be altered so as to constitute an increase in the height and/or structural dimensions of the billboard.

(4) Nonconforming Billboards in Newly Annexed Properties. All billboards nonconforming as to the requirements of this chapter located on newly annexed properties to the city shall be fully removed and/or brought into conformance within six years of final city approval of the applicable annexation action, or at whatever time application is made for building or other permits for improvements to a property which exceed $60,000 in value.

(5) Signs in existence as of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter that would have been legal under former regulations, but are now nonconforming, may be issued a permit to establish their legal status; provided, that application for such a permit must be made within 60 days of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 54, 2016; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2704 § 1, 2001; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.080 Administration and enforcement.

The community development director or his/her designee shall be responsible for administration of this chapter and is authorized to formulate procedures consistent with its intent and purpose.

(1) Administrative Adjustments. The community development director shall have the authority to grant or deny requests for adjustments to the provisions of this chapter upon application in accordance with procedures set forth in Chapter 20.86 PMC, whenever such provisions are unduly prohibitive to reasonable use of property as intended by this chapter.

(a) The director may grant an adjustment of no greater than 10 percent (rounded to the nearest foot or square foot); provided, that no increase in the number of signs shall be allowed;

(b) An adjustment shall not be materially detrimental to other properties or land uses in the surrounding area;

(c) The adjustment shall be consistent with the general purpose and intent of this chapter and/or the comprehensive plan.

(2) Removal of Signs. The development services director may order the removal of any sign erected, installed, or maintained in violation of this chapter. Where there is no immediate threat to public safety or welfare, written notice shall be first given to the sign owner, the sign permittee, or the owner of the property where the sign is placed. However, where any sign is located in the public right-of-way in violation of this chapter, it shall be subject to immediate removal. Illegal temporary signs in the public right-of-way shall not be stored and are subject to disposal by the city.

(3) Civil Penalties. In addition to any other remedy available to the city, a person violating or failing to comply with any provisions of this chapter shall be subject to the procedures for violation, hearing, and penalties as set forth in Chapter 20.95 PMC.

(4) Substitution. These regulations are not intended to, and do not, restrict speech on the basis of its content, viewpoint, or message. No part of these regulations shall be construed to favor commercial speech over noncommercial speech. A noncommercial message may be substituted for any commercial message on a sign, or the content of any noncommercial message displayed on a sign may be changed to a different noncommercial message, without the need for approval or a permit, provided the size of the sign is not altered. To the extent any provision of these regulations is ambiguous, the term shall be interpreted not to regulate on the basis of the content of the message.

(5) Severability. It is hereby declared to be the intention of the city council that the sections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses and phrases of this code are severable, and if any phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, or section of this code shall be declared unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of a court of competent jurisdiction, such unconstitutionality shall not affect any of the remaining phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs, and sections of this code. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

20.60.090 Innovative sign design review.

(1) A design review process is hereby established to allow for innovation and flexibility in sign design when found to be compatible with the character of the surrounding area and the overall character of the city. The intent of this section is to provide criteria by which a sign that does not comply with one or more standards of this code (excluding the height of freestanding sign(s)) may be permitted, subject to design review, public notification, and findings of consistency with the guidelines included herein.

(2) The design review and historic preservation board shall review all requests for design review when applications are so made to the development services department and shall issue a recommendation to either approve, deny, or approve with modifications or conditions.

(3) The development services director shall consider the recommendations of the design review board and issue his/her written decision within 10 working days of receipt of the recommendation. The decision of the director may be appealed pursuant to the appeal provisions of Chapter 20.87 PMC.

(4) The following criteria shall be considered by the board in making its recommendation and by the director when issuing a decision:

(a) Whether the proposed sign is compatible with the architectural design of the building and structures on the same parcel;

(b) Whether the sign is compatible with the character of the surrounding area, including materials and other elements of the area;

(c) Whether the sign is consistent in size and orientation with the character of the surrounding area (i.e., pedestrian- or automobile-oriented commercial districts);

(d) Whether the sign is consistent with the purpose and intent of the comprehensive plan and this code (as outlined by PMC 20.60.001) and is not a prohibited sign type as defined by PMC 20.60.020;

(e) Whether the applicant is reducing in either number, size or location some otherwise allowable sign(s) on the site, where applicable. In no event shall this section be used to exceed maximum height of any freestanding signage;

(f) Whether the deviation is necessary to provide relief from the standards of this code due to special circumstances;

(g) Whether the proposed sign demonstrates an innovative method of meeting the scope and purpose of the sign ordinance, as defined by PMC 20.60.001. The architectural design of the signage shall be evaluated relative to PMC 20.60.001 and the comprehensive plan, as well as all other applicable sections of this code. (Ord. 3211 § 3, 2020; Ord. 3119 § 55, 2016; Ord. 3051 § 14, 2013; Ord. 2821 § 1, 2005; Ord. 2783 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2649 § 1, 2000).

Prior legislation: Ords. 2147, 2196, 2268, 2316, 2346, 2362, 2393, 2399, 2449, 2454, 2468, 2510, 2513 and 2615.