Chapter 18.44 SIGN CODE

This chapter is known as and may be cited as the “Sumner Sign Code.” Additional guidelines for signs associated with commercial and industrial uses are included in the Sumner design and development guidelines. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.020 Purpose.

It is the purpose of this chapter to maintain high quality in the advertising communication sector in the city by regulating the posting, displaying, erection, use and maintenance of signs and street graphics, while recognizing the needs of businesses and convenience of pedestrians and motorists; to encourage creative and innovative design; to maintain and enhance the aesthetic environment and the city’s ability to attract sources of economic development and growth; to reduce traffic hazards caused by unregulated signs which may distract, confuse, and impair the visibility of motorists and pedestrians; to establish a variance process which acknowledges changes in lifestyle, travel patterns and land use philosophy. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.030 Exempt signs and displays.

The following signs or displays are exempted from the regulations and procedures under this chapter:

A. Official public signs.

B. Signs not visible or intended to be viewed from a public or pedestrian right-of-way.

C. Window merchandise displays.

D. Window signs, as follows, displayed in the specified manner:

1. Decals indicating credit cards honored, not exceeding two square feet in surface area;

2. Temporary signs such as signs used in conjunction with national advertising programs, or as marketing specials;

3. Individual neon signs not exceeding three square feet in surface area. Limited one sign per window, or one sign per 32 square feet of window area, whichever is less.

E. Point of purchase advertising displays such as product dispensers and candy machines.

F. National flags or flags of political subdivisions or symbolic flags of a noncommercial institution.

G. Gravestones.

H. Reasonable holiday decorations.

I. Plaques, tablets or inscriptions indicating the name of a building, its date of erection, or other commemorative information, which are an integral part of the building’s structure or are attached flat to the face of the building, which are nonilluminated, and which do not exceed three square feet in surface area.

J. Sculptures, fountains, mosaics, murals and design features which do not incorporate advertising or identifications.

K. Legal notices required by law.

L. Signs required by law.

M. Structures intended for a separate use such as phone booths and recycle containers; or sign graphics attached directly to a motor vehicle, boat, trailer, or container operating in the normal course of business.

N. Barber poles not exceeding four feet in length; provided, the director approves the design of the pole, the location, and manner of erection.

O. Signs stating business hours erected on private property. These signs shall not contain advertising or promotional information and shall not exceed a sign area of four square feet.

P. The holder of a permit, for the duration thereof, has the right to change the advertising copy on the structure or sign for which the permit was issued without being required to pay any additional fee or to conform to any additional requirements. If the form and format of the sign copy does not change, no design review is required. Any structural changes to the sign will require a permit. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.040 Definitions.

For the purposes of this chapter, certain words and phrases have the following meanings, unless the context otherwise indicates or a definition exists in chapter 18.04 SMC:

“Animated sign” means any sign that flashes or simulates motion with an electronic or manufactured source of supply or contains wind-actuated motion, but not including flags or banners, revolving signs or changing message centers.

“Banner sign” means a sign made of cloth, fabric, paper, nonrigid plastic or similar types of material. National flags, flags of political subdivisions and symbolic flags of an institution or business (house flag) are not considered banner signs for the purposes of this chapter.

Building Official. See definition in SMC 18.04.0210.

“Building sign” means a sign attached to any part of a building, as contrasted with a freestanding sign. Printing on a canopy or awning is considered as a building sign.

“Business park” means an industrial or commercial complex designed and developed as a unit and made up of different establishments. This term does not include a “shopping center.”

“Canopy sign” means a sign that is a part of or attached to a freestanding, roof-like structure that provides protection from the elements in an outdoor service area.

“City entrance sign” means a sign erected to identify the town, population, public services and civic organizations and information to the general traveling public.

“Construction sign” means a sign that identifies the site and location of current and future construction.

“Courtesy display panel sign” means a display sign for pedestrian viewing only to show credit cards accepted, menus, redemption stamps, bus schedules and community events.

Curbline. See definition in SMC 18.04.0312.

“Digital message sign” means a sign using digital technology that produces static images which are changed remotely. Digital message signs may not scroll, flash or feature motion pictures. A digital message sign may be internally or externally illuminated. Digital message signs shall contain static messages only except that the static image may change every 10 seconds. Each static message shall not include flashing, scintillating lighting or the varying of light color or intensity.

“Double-faced sign” means a sign with two faces.

“Electric sign” means a sign or sign structure in which electrical wiring, connections and/or fixtures are used as part of the sign proper.

“Electronic reader board sign” means any sign or portion of a sign that includes arrays of light bulbs or LEDs whose intent is the permanent or intermediate flashing, animation, or display of text, date, time and/or images.

“Establishment” means an economic unit, generally at a single physical location, where business is conducted or services or industrial operations are performed. This includes nonprofit and noncommercial operations.

Facade. See definition in SMC 18.04.0368.

“Freestanding sign” means a sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on, or anchored in, the ground and that are not attached to a building or other structure.

Frontage. See definition in SMC 18.04.0397.

“Identification sign” means a sign containing the name of the business establishment, occupant of the building, and/or address of the premises.

“Incidental sign” means a sign which is generally informational and has a purpose secondary to the use of the premises on which it is located, such as “no parking,” “entrance,” “loading only,” “telephone,” and other similar objectives. No sign with a commercial message intended to be viewed from a position off of the premises on which the sign is located shall be considered incidental.

“Informational or nonadvertising sign” means a sign containing only noncommercial, site-specific environmental or interpretive information, or similar nonpromotional messages intended as a public service to the community, erected by public service clubs, historic societies, utility or service districts, or similar nonprofit organizations, or government agencies. This does not include signs where text changes electronically.

“Inspector” includes any city employee working under the authority and direction of the director.

“International Building Code” is as defined and adopted in SMC 15.08.010.

Mansard Roof. See definition in SMC 18.04.0637.

“Marquee” means a permanent structure attached to, and projecting from a building and providing protection from the weather, but does not include a projecting roof, awning, or canopy.

“Marquee sign” means any sign which forms part or is integrated into a marquee and does not extend horizontally beyond the limits of such marquee.

“Monument sign” means a freestanding sign that is not supported by poles and the bottom surface of the sign is in contact with the ground. A “low monument sign” means a monument sign no greater than seven feet in height.

“Neighborhood community bulletin board” means a monument sign or wall sign with public service messages intended for the benefit of the immediate neighborhood, where text does not change electronically.

“Neighborhood identification sign” means a permanent sign to identify a particular residential area.

“Nonpolitical campaign sign” means a temporary sign for civic, religious, or other fund drives or events.

“Official public sign” means:

1. A sign permanently erected or permitted by the city, Pierce County, or the state, including, but not limited to, signs denoting the name of any thoroughfare, the route to any city, town, village, educational institution, public building, public park, historic place, shrine or hospital, to direct and regulate traffic, to denote any railroad crossing, bridge, ferry, or other transportation or transmission company for the direction or safety of the public.

2. A sign, notice or symbol for the information of the Federal Aviation Agency as to locations, directions, landings, and conditions affecting safety in aviation.

“Off-premises sign” means any sign which cannot be classified as an on-premises sign as described (includes “billboards”).

“On-premises sign” means a sign which displays only advertising copy strictly incidental to the lawful use of the premises on which it is located and, depending upon the district in which it is located, contains any or all of the following:

1. The name of the owner, occupant, management or firm occupying the premises;

2. The address of the use;

3. The kind of name of the business and/or the brand name of the principal commodities sold or produced on the premises;

4. Other information relative to a service or activity involved in the conduct of the business. (Also includes “owner-identification” or “business sign.”)

“Parapet” means a false front or wall extension above the roof line.

Permittee. See definition in SMC 18.04.0793.

“Pole sign” means a freestanding sign that is supported by one or more poles.

“Political sign” means a sign to advertise a candidate for political office, a pending levy or ballot initiative or similar election.

“Portable sign” means any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent structure, or a sign designed to be transported, including, but not limited to, signs designed to be transported by means of wheels; converted to A- or T-frames; and sidewalk and sandwich boards.

“Premises” means the real estate, as a unit, which may be one or more lots, which is involved by the sign or signs mentioned in this chapter.

“Projecting sign” means a sign which is attached to and projects from a structure or wall in such a manner that its leading edge extends more than 16 inches beyond the surface of such structure or wall. A marquee sign is not considered a projecting sign.

“Real estate sign” means a sign to advertise the sale, rental or lease of the premises.

“Roof sign” means a sign erected upon or above a roof or parapet of a building or structure, except signs attached to an awning. Includes mansard roof sign.

“Shopping center” means a retail shopping area designed as a unit, which utilizes a common parking area and contains separate, individual establishments.

“Sign” means any visual communication device, structure, placard or fixture that uses color, form, graphic, illumination, symbol, or writing to advertise, announce the purpose of, or identify the purpose of a person or entity, or to communicate information of any kind to the public. For the purpose of this chapter, a sign is not considered to be building or structural design, but is restricted solely to graphics, symbols or written copy that is meant to be used in the aforementioned way.

“Sign area or surface area of sign” means the total area of signage, visible from any viewpoint, excluding any sign support structure which does not form a part of the sign proper. “Surface area” includes only one face of a multiple-faced sign.

“Sign height” means the vertical distance measured from the adjacent street grade or upper surface of the nearest street curb, other than an elevated roadway, which permits the greatest height to the highest point of the sign.

“Sign structure” means any structure that supports or is capable of supporting any sign as defined in this chapter. A sign structure may be a single pole or may or may not be an integral part of the building. Any structure that performs an entirely separate use, such as a telephone booth, bus shelter, Goodwill container, etc., is not considered a sign structure.

Street. See definition in SMC 18.04.0980.

“Suspended sign” means a sign that is suspended from the underside of a horizontal plane surface and is supported by such surface.

“Temporary sign” means any sign, banner, pennant, valance or advertising display constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, paper, cardboard or other light materials, with or without frames, inflatable figures, balloons (in a display of 100 or more), intended to be displayed for a limited time only. Signs painted upon window surfaces that are readily removable by washing are considered temporary signs.

“Vacant property” means property not occupied or inhabited or put to use by a person for more than 12 consecutive months.

“Wall sign” means a sign attached or erected parallel to and extending not more than 16 inches from the facade or face of any building to which it is attached and supported throughout its entire length, with the exposed face of the sign parallel to the plane of the wall or facade. For the purposes of this chapter, printing on the valance of an awning or canopy is also considered a wall sign.

“Window sign” means a sign located inside and affixed to windows of a building, whether temporary or permanent, lighted or unlighted, which may be viewed from the exterior of the building. (Ord. 2823 §§ 1 – 4, 2022; Ord. 2490 § 3, 2014; Ord. 2439 § 12, 2013; Ord. 2253 § 9, 2008; Ord. 2170 § 4, 2006; Ord. 2012 § 3, 2002; Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

Article II. General Restrictions and Limitations

18.44.050 Signs in street right-of-way.

No sign shall be located in or project into the right-of-way of any public street unless such locations or projection is specifically authorized by other provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.060 Signs interfering with sight distance.

A. No sign shall be so designed or constructed as to interfere with the sight distance of motorists proceeding on or approaching on adjacent streets, alleys, driveways, or parking areas, or of pedestrians proceeding on or approaching on adjacent sidewalks or pedestrian ways.

B. All signs erected shall meet the vision requirements as set forth in SMC 18.32.040. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.070 Landscaping.

Landscaping shall be used in conjunction with all freestanding signs, except temporary, portable and real estate signs, and may utilize shrubs and plantings or decorative features such as concrete bases, planter boxes or ornaments expressing the sign theme but not containing advertising copy. The purpose of this landscaping requirement is to bring the natural surroundings of the Northwest inside the city and to reduce impervious surface to the extent it is economically feasible and desirable. All plantings and landscaping shall be completed prior to final approval of the installation of the sign unless the type of proposed vegetation must be planted at a certain time of the year to be viable. In any case, the time period for completion of the landscaping shall not exceed six months following sign installation. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.080 Exposed angle irons, guy wires and braces.

When a projecting or roof sign is used, the number and amount of visible angle irons, guy wires or braces shall be minimized, except those that are an integral part of the overall design, such as decorative metal or woods. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.090 Sign placement.

The allowable sign area is calculated from the building frontage or lot frontage, whichever is greater. The sign, whether on the building or freestanding, must be located on and facing upon the street frontage from which it is allowed, providing it complies with the setback and spacing requirements of this chapter and the zoning code. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.100 Lighting restrictions.

A. No person shall construct, establish, create or maintain any stationary exterior lighting or illumination system or any interior system which is intended to be viewed from a public right-of-way used for vehicular traffic which system contains or utilizes:

1. Any exposed incandescent lamp with a wattage in excess of 25 watts unless a dimmer or sun screen is attached;

2. Any exposed incandescent lamp with an internal or external metallic reflector;

3. Any revolving beacon light;

4. Any continuous or sequential flashing operations.

B. These provisions do not apply to:

1. Lighting systems owned or controlled by any public agency for the purpose of directing or controlling navigation, traffic, highway or street illumination;

2. Aircraft warning lights;

3. Electronic information systems which display the time of day and/or the atmospheric temperature or programmable electronic messages of a public service or commercial nature;

4. Temporary lighting used for repair or construction as required by governmental agencies.

C. All lighted signs shall have low or soft illumination or be shielded. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.110 Prohibited signs.

From and after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, it is unlawful for any person to erect or place within the city, except as specifically allowed, the following signs:

A. Off-premises signs, except for signs permitted pursuant to SMC 18.44.120(B) and SMC 18.44.240(B)(1)(a)(v) and SMC 18.44.240(C)(1)(e).

B. Banners, streamers, pendants, balloons (greater than 100 in a display), including festoons of lights and/or decorations except those temporarily attached to merchandise or temporarily displayed as part of a special sale, promotion or community event or as allowed in SMC 18.44.160(F).

C. Any sign which revolves in excess of eight revolutions per minute or gives the impression of movement through the manipulation of lights, except a time and temperature unit or changeable message center which is part of a sign permitted in a business and commercial district.

D. Signs attached to, or placed on, a vehicle, trailer, or container parked on private or public property; this provision is not to be construed as prohibiting the identification of a firm or its principal products on a vehicle operating during the normal course of business.

E. The placing of benches on sidewalks bearing advertising matter; however, signs advertising the public transit authority may be placed on benches at bus stops.

F. Waste receptacles carrying advertising matter and placed upon the public right-of-way or private property.

G. Any sign which constitutes a traffic hazard or detriment to traffic safety by reason of its size, location, movement, content, coloring or method of illumination, or by obstructing the vision of drivers, or by obstructing or detracting from the visibility of any official traffic control device by diverting or tending to divert the attention of drivers of moving vehicles from traffic movement on streets, roads, intersections, or access facilities; no sign shall be erected so that it obstructs the vision of pedestrians, flashing or revolving red, green, blue or amber lights shall be prohibited on any sign; any sign, which by glare or method of illumination, constitutes a hazard to traffic is prohibited; no sign may use the words “Stop,” “Look,” “Danger,” or any other word, phrase, symbol or character in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic.

H. Signs not properly maintained, showing neglect, or in a dilapidated or hazardous condition so as to violate the purpose, intent and objective of this chapter are required to be repaired or removed.

I. Signs which are pasted or attached to utility poles, trees, fences or other signs, rocks or natural features, except signs identifying a single-family dwelling meeting the requirements set forth in SMC 18.44.210(A)(1) may be attached to fences, standards, or mailboxes.

J. All lighted signs which are adjacent to and directed toward a residential district and which detract from the welfare of the residential district.

K. Portable signs except temporary signs as permitted under SMC 18.44.120 and 18.44.160.

L. Roof signs.

M. Signs identifying or advertising home occupations.

N. Electronic reader board signs, except in the interchange commercial zone south of SR-410 as permitted under SMC 18.44.245, the general commercial zone as permitted under SMC 18.44.240, and the Town Center Plan area as permitted under SMC 18.44.220.

O. Signage advertising marijuana businesses or products within 2,000 feet of the following uses:

1. Churches;

2. Residential;

3. Libraries;

4. Parks;

5. Trails;

6. Daycare facilities; or

7. Schools. (Ord. 2823 § 5, 2022; Ord. 2648 § 1, 2018; Ord. 2616 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2374 § 1, 2011; Ord. 2253 § 8, 2008; Ord. 2170 § 3, 2006; Ord. 2015 § 8, 2002; Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

Article III. Performance Standards

18.44.120 Sandwich board/sidewalk signs.

Each business is permitted one sandwich board/sidewalk sign displaying information on the sponsoring business; and to have information displayed on one sandwich board/sidewalk sign that contains multiple businesses located at a street corner subject to the following:

A. Signs shall be located next to the curb edge of a sidewalk on the premises in such a manner so as not to interfere with the opening of car doors, bus stops, loading zones or pedestrian traffic.

B. Signs shall be located directly in front of the sponsoring business, within 12 feet of the main entrance to the business, except:

1. This requirement does not apply to signs located at the street corner that contain multiple business names.

2. A business within the Town Center district that does not have direct street frontage on Main Street or Alder Avenue shall be allowed a maximum of two sandwich board signs located within two blocks of the business for marking route of travel; provided, no more than one sign per business is allowed at an intersection, or on a street.

C. Owners of such signs shall assume liability for damage resulting from their use and shall provide the city with an appropriate legal document holding the city harmless for such resulting loss. The business owner must supply the city with a valid certificate of insurance for liability purposes.

D. Signs are limited to 42 inches in height and 24 inches wide. Where said sign will be located within 10 feet of a driveway or other vehicular access point, the sign is limited to 30 inches in height.

E. In situations where sight visibility of motorists is not affected, small party type balloons (up to six) may be attached to sandwich board/sidewalk signs.

F. Permanent lettering for the business name and logo are required on sandwich boards.

G. Signs shall be displayed during business hours only.

H. Signs shall conform with the Sumner development and design guidelines as set forth in SMC 18.40.020. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.130 Neighborhood community bulletin board.

If approved by the director, a neighborhood may be allowed to erect a permanent structure as a community bulletin board; provided, that it does not exceed a sign area of 30 square feet per face. (Ord. 2823 § 6, 2022; Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.140 Informational or nonadvertising signs.

A. Informational or nonadvertising signs may be erected as a public service to the community.

B. Such signs may be located in any zone upon approval by the director.

C. There shall be no fee for signs allowed by this section.

D. Such signs shall not include electronic reader board signs or digital message signs.

E. Such signs shall not exceed 20 square feet per face and 15 feet in height. (Ord. 2823 § 7, 2022; Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.150 Neighborhood identification sign.

A neighborhood identification sign may be erected for residential subdivisions of at least 10 acres in size according to the following standards:

A. Sign shall be a monument sign not to exceed 20 square feet in area and five feet in height. Sign shall be set back 10 feet from any property line.

B. One sign is permitted at any street entrance to the subdivision. (Ord. 2012 § 4, 2002: Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.155 Business park identification sign.

A business park identification sign may be erected for business parks according to the following standards:

A. The amount of allowable signage area when located in a general commercial or an industrial zone shall be dependent on the acreage of the site and set forth as follows:

Less than 5 acres	20-square-foot maximum
5 to 15 acres	50-square-foot maximum
Greater than 15 acres	75-square-foot maximum

B. Maximum height of monument sign: five feet.

C. Area within five feet of the sign must be landscaped.

D. Monument style signs are preferred and shall be located at the entrance to the property with a maximum of two signs per entrance, two entrances maximum.

E. Business park sign size shall not be calculated as part of the total aggregate sign area.

F. Unlit or externally lighted signs are preferred. Internally lighted signs will be allowed; provided, that:

1. The internally lighted area of the sign is 25 percent or less of the total sign area; and

2. The design of the internally lit business park sign is approved through administrative design review based on criteria established in the Sumner design and development guidelines. (Ord. 2012 § 2, 2002)

18.44.160 Temporary signs.

Temporary signs may require a permit and be authorized by the director depending upon the type of temporary sign regulated as follows:

A. Real estate signs not requiring a permit:

1. Real estate signs permitted under this section are permitted only on the premises which is for sale, rent or lease and in accordance with the following provisions:

a. Single-Family Dwellings and Multifamily Complexes. One real estate sign is permitted for each street frontage of the premises. Said sign may have two faces, shall not exceed a height of six feet unless placed in a window and shall not exceed an area of 20 square feet, no one face shall exceed 10 square feet and the sign shall be unlighted.

b. Unimproved Acreage. One real estate sign is permitted for each lot. The sign shall not exceed an area of one-fourth of a square foot for each foot of street frontage and shall not, in any event, exceed 50 square feet for a total of all faces. It shall not exceed a height of six feet and shall be unlighted.

B. Real estate signs requiring a temporary sign permit:

1. Subdivision or Multiple-Family Complex Signs. A temporary real estate sign declaring a group of lots, dwellings or occupancies within a subdivision or apartment complex for sale or rent are permitted subject to the following conditions:

a. One such sign is permitted for each street frontage of the premises being sold or leased. The area of said signs shall not exceed an area of 25 square feet each. Freestanding signs shall not exceed a height of 10 feet. Wall sign(s) shall be attached flat against a principal building, shall not project above said building, and shall be unlighted or indirectly lighted.

b. Signs permitted pursuant to this section may remain as long as the project remains unsold or unleased, or for one year, whichever period is less; provided, however, that the director may extend the time period one year, not to exceed a total of two years.

2. Commercial and Industrial Uses. One real estate sign is permitted for each public entrance to property but there shall not be more than four signs per lot. Said sign shall not exceed an area of 16 square feet per face, the total of all signs shall not exceed 50 square feet. Said signs shall be attached flat against the building or freestanding, shall not project above the eave of the roof or the top of the parapet of said building and shall be unlighted or indirectly lighted.

C. Nonpolitical Campaign Signs. Temporary nonpolitical signs announcing a campaign, drive or event of a civic, philanthropic, educational or religious organization may be allowed upon any lot. Said sign shall not exceed 36 square feet for the total of all faces with no one face exceeding 18 square feet. Sign height shall not exceed four and one-half feet. Such signs may be posted 30 days prior to the event, drive, campaign, etc. Such signs shall be removed within five days after the event, drive, campaign, etc.

D. Political Campaign Signs. Temporary political signs announcing the campaign of a person for public office may be allowed on private property, with the consent of the private property owner, and on street rights-of-way; provided, that said sign shall not restrict the view of vehicular traffic. Said sign shall be limited to 36 square feet for the total of all faces with no one face exceeding 18 square feet. Said sign shall not exceed a height of four and one-half feet. All such signs shall be removed no later than five days after the election for which the political sign was displayed. The candidate whose name appears on the sign shall be responsible for removal. If such signs are not removed, they will be subject to removal by the city.

E. Construction Signs. One sign identifying a project under construction is permitted for each street frontage of the building or structure under construction. Said sign may contain the name of the building contractor and his subcontractors, the architect, and the engineer. Said sign is permitted during the period of construction and shall not exceed 50 square feet total of all faces. Said sign shall not be erected until such time that a construction permit for the project has been issued.

F. Special Events Signs. Special permits may be issued by the director for a period not to exceed 30 days for banners, streamers, inflatable displays and temporary or portable signs for special events such as carnivals, grand openings, outdoor affairs and sales, and events of a similar nature. Permits of this nature shall be limited to not more than 120 days per calendar year. New businesses within the city are granted a two-week permit for grand opening signs at no charge.

G. Streamers.

1. Streamers may be used to outline property lines and areas on a lot which display merchandise outdoors.

2. Streamers shall be replaced or removed when torn or faded.

3. Since the primary purpose of streamers is to make display areas more attractive, for those uses displaying streamers for more than 90 days in a calendar year, landscaping must be combined with streamer usage. Plans are to be approved by the development services department with the intent being to provide planting areas with street trees or continuous areas with ground cover, particularly, but not limited to the area along property lines.

H. Farm Product Identification Signs. No permit is required but said signs shall not be located in the public right-of-way and shall be located on the property on which the product is grown. This sign will be limited to 50 square feet for the total of all faces, no one face shall exceed 25 square feet. Said sign is limited to 15 feet in height and shall be unlighted or indirectly lighted. (Ord. 2788 § 48, 2021; Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.170 Projecting and suspended signs.

Any projecting or suspended signs shall meet the following requirements:

A. No wall or projecting sign shall project more than one foot above or over the wall, roof line or parapet of the building to which it is attached.

B. No projecting or suspended sign shall extend less than seven feet above any public sidewalk or pedestrian way.

C. When a projecting sign is used the number and amount of visible angle irons, guy wires or braces shall be minimized, except those that are an integral part of the overall design, such as decorative metal or woods.

D. No projecting or suspended sign shall extend more than 75 percent of the distance between the property line and the curb line. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.180 Digital message signs.

Digital message signs shall be allowed only for public schools, government facilities, or regional community centers subject to the following standards:

A. One digital message sign shall be allowed in lieu of an electronic reader board sign.

B. A digital message sign shall not be located closer than 1,000 feet, as measured along the adjacent right-of-way, from another digital message sign or electronic reader board sign.

C. The digital message sign shall be a monument sign and shall not exceed a height of seven feet.

D. The digital message sign shall not exceed 64 square feet in total area. The electronic portion shall not exceed 60 percent of the square footage of the side of the sign where the electronic message is located.

E. The digital message sign shall be programmed to operate only during the hours of 6:00 a.m. through 10:00 p.m. (Ord. 2823 § 8, 2022; Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.185 City informational signs.

Repealed by Ord. 2823. (Ord. 2648 § 2, 2018: Ord. 2602 § 3, 2017)

18.44.190 City entrance signs.

City entrance signs shall contain no commercial advertising. The total area of the sign on all its faces shall not exceed 12 square feet and the height of the sign shall not exceed eight feet. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.195 Incidental signs.

Incidental signs shall contain no commercial advertising intended to be viewed off the premises and shall be limited to a maximum of eight square feet per sign. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

Article IV. Regulations by District

18.44.200 Signs permitted in all districts.

The following signs are permitted in all zoning districts within the city subject to the provisions of Articles II and III of this chapter:

A. City entrance sign;

B. Construction sign;

C. Nonpolitical sign;

D. Political sign;

E. Real estate sign;

F. Repealed by Ord. 2823;

G. Temporary signs;

H. Incidental sign;

I. Neighborhood community bulletin board;

J. Informational or nonadvertising sign;

K. Digital message sign. (Ord. 2823 § 10, 2022; Ord. 2648 § 3, 2018: Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.210 Signs permitted in residential districts.

A. Identification Signs.

1. Single-Family Dwellings. One identification sign is permitted for each occupancy. Only address and name of occupant is allowed on the identification sign. Said sign shall not exceed an area of two square feet, shall not exceed a height of six feet, shall be attached directly to a building, fence, standard or mailbox, and shall be unlighted or indirectly lighted. Signs identifying home occupations shall not be allowed.

2. Multifamily Complexes. Identification signs displaying the name and/or address of the complex are permitted as follows:

a. Freestanding Sign. One wall sign or freestanding sign is allowed for each street frontage of the premises. Maximum sign area for each street frontage is limited to two square feet per dwelling unit not to exceed 18 square feet. Sign shall not exceed a height of six feet.

b. Wall Signs. One wall sign or freestanding sign is allowed for each street frontage of the premises. Maximum sign area for each street frontage is limited to two square feet per dwelling unit not to exceed 18 square feet or 10 percent of the facade to which it is attached, whichever is less.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 20 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

d. Projecting signs are prohibited.

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of the total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet standards as set forth in SMC 18.44.170.

B. Single-Family Residential Sign. In addition to the other permitted signs, one single-family residential sign is permitted on the premises. Said sign shall be a freestanding or wall sign with a maximum size of six square feet in area and six feet in height. If freestanding, said sign shall be 10 feet from any property line. Said sign shall contain no commercial message and not advertise a home occupation.

C. Identification Sign for Conditional Use. One freestanding or wall sign identifying the conditional use is permitted for each street frontage up to a maximum of two signs on the premises. Said signs shall be a maximum of 40 square feet in area and 15 feet in height and set back 10 feet from any property lines, except that signs for a professional office use shall be a monument sign limited to a maximum of 20 square feet in area and five feet in height.

D. General Standards. All signs permitted under this section shall meet the following standards:

1. All signs are to be surface lit by external light sources rather than illuminated from inside except readerboard signs for schools and public facilities.

2. Neon tube signs are prohibited.

E. Other Signs Permitted.

1. Farm product identification signs per SMC 18.44.160(H).

2. Neighborhood identification sign per SMC 18.44.150. (Ord. 2499 § 4, 2014: Ord. 2134 § 27, 2005: Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.220 Signs permitted in the Town Center Plan area.

A. Aggregate Sign Area. The aggregate sign area for any premises shall not exceed one and one-half square feet for each foot of street frontage. The aggregate sign area for corner lots shall not exceed one square foot for each foot of street frontage. Unless otherwise exempt, signs permitted in accordance with this section are subject to the total aggregate sign area.

B. Multiestablishment Buildings. A multiestablishment building is a single building that contains more than one commercial or mixed-use establishment. A multiestablishment building may erect the following signs up to the maximum aggregate sign area:

1. Building Identification Sign. Sign(s) identifying the name and/or address of the building are allowed as follows. The names of individual establishments in the building may be placed on up to 70 percent of the sign area.

a. Freestanding Sign.

i. Freestanding signs are prohibited along Main Street between Wood Avenue and the Burlington Northern Railroad right-of-way.

ii. One wall sign or freestanding sign is allowed for each street frontage not to exceed a total of two signs on the premises.

iii. The maximum sign area permitted is 150 square feet. No one face shall exceed 75 square feet. The freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 15 feet within 15 feet of any lot line abutting a public street right-of-way. For each additional one-foot setback beyond 15 feet the sign height may be increased by two feet to a maximum height of 35 feet.

iv. Low, horizontal monument signs are preferred.

b. Wall Signs. One wall sign or freestanding sign is allowed for each street frontage not to exceed a total of two signs on the premises. The maximum sign area permitted for a building identification wall sign is equal to five percent of the facade to which it is attached, or 150 square feet, whichever is less.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 20 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

d. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are prohibited on Main Street between Traffic Avenue and Wood Avenue. Projecting signs where allowed shall be erected in accordance with SMC 18.44.170.

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards set forth in SMC 18.44.170.

2. Individual Establishment Identification Signs. Each individual establishment in a multiestablishment building is allowed a minimum of 30 square feet of signage as set forth below. Aggregate sign area shall not apply to signs for individual establishments.

a. Freestanding signs are prohibited.

b. Wall Signs. A maximum of two wall signs are allowed, except that an establishment on a building corner is allowed one additional wall sign on the ground floor up to 10 square feet. The maximum sign area permitted is equal to five percent of the facade to which it is attached, or 150 square feet, whichever is less.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 20 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

d. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are prohibited on Main Street between Traffic Avenue and Wood Avenue. Projecting signs where allowed shall meet the standards set forth in SMC 18.44.170.

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards set forth in SMC 18.44.170.

C. Single Establishment Buildings. Any commercial building or multifamily development site occupied by a single establishment may erect signs as follows up to the maximum aggregate sign area:

1. Freestanding Sign.

a. Freestanding signs are prohibited along Main Street between Wood Avenue and the Burlington Northern Railroad right-of-way.

b. One freestanding sign is allowed per street frontage of the premises up to a maximum of two signs. The maximum sign area permitted is 150 square feet. No one face shall exceed 75 square feet.

c. The freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 15 feet within 15 feet of any lot line abutting a public street right-of-way. For each additional one-foot setback beyond 15 feet the sign height may be increased by two feet to a maximum height of 35 feet.

d. Low, monument signs are preferred.

2. Wall Signs. A maximum of two wall signs are allowed on the premises, except that an establishment on a corner is allowed one additional wall sign on the ground floor up to 10 square feet. Sign area shall not exceed five percent of the area of the building facade to which it is attached, or 150 square feet, whichever is less. A single establishment building is allowed a minimum of 30 square feet of total signage.

3. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 20 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

4. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are prohibited on Main Street between Traffic Avenue and Wood Avenue. Projecting signs where allowed shall be erected in accordance with SMC 18.44.170.

5. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

6. Roof signs are prohibited.

7. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

8. Electronic Reader Board Signs (ERBS). ERBS are allowed west of the White River for single-establishment retail buildings with a total floor area greater than 40,000 square feet, as follows:

a. ERBS shall not display more than one message per eight seconds.

b. Animation between messages shall not be allowed.

c. ERBS are allowed only as a wall sign in lieu of a wall sign allowed in subsection (C)(2) of this section. An ERBS shall not exceed 75 percent of the allowed sign square footage, or 125 square feet, whichever is less. Freestanding ERBS are not allowed.

d. Only one ERBS is allowed per site and parcel.

e. The difference between the off and solid-message measurement using the ERBS measurement criteria shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles over ambient lighting conditions when measured at the recommended distance, based on the ERBS size. The measurement distance shall be calculated by using the following formula: measurement distance = the square root of the (area of the sign square feet x 100).

f. ERBS shall be programmed to automatically adjust illumination for all times of day and night based on ambient light conditions using photocell technology.

D. Other Signs Allowed.

1. Sandwich board/sidewalk signs are allowed subject to the provisions of SMC 18.44.120.

2. Rear Entrance Signs. Any building with a rear entrance from a public or private parking lot or alley may have a rear entrance sign which shall be either a wall sign or a marquee or awning sign. Said sign shall not exceed 10 percent of the facade to which it is attached.

E. General Standards. Signs as may be allowed per this section shall be subject to the following standards:

1. Signs may be attached flush to the building so long as they do not obscure historic building details.

2. All new signs, except for neon tube signs, are to be surface lit by external light sources rather than illuminated from inside.

3. Businesses are to create individual styled signage which distinguishes their establishment. The use of icons and symbols are ways to demonstrate the product or service provided.

4. Signs which relate to pedestrian eye level may be painted on the storefront glass.

5. Decorative motifs are allowed if they are consistent with the character, integrated with the building architecture, and are not used as advertising for the business. (Ord. 2774 § 32, 2021; Ord. 2647 § 1, 2018; Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.230 Signs permitted in neighborhood commercial district.

A. Aggregate Sign Area. The aggregate sign area for the premises shall not exceed one and one-half square feet for each foot of street frontage. The aggregate sign area for corner lots shall not exceed one square foot for each foot of street frontage. Signs permitted in accordance with this section are subject to the aggregate sign area.

B. Multi-Establishment Buildings. A single building that contains more than one establishment may erect the following signs up to the maximum aggregate sign area:

1. Building Identification Sign. Sign(s) identifying the name and/or address of the building are allowed as follows. Said sign(s) may contain the names of individual establishments in the building on up to 70 percent of the sign area.

a. Freestanding Signs.

i. One wall sign or freestanding sign is allowed for each street frontage not to exceed a total of two signs.

ii. The maximum sign area permitted is 150 square feet. No one face shall exceed 75 square feet. The freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 15 feet within 15 feet of any lot line abutting a public street right-of-way. For each additional one-foot setback beyond 15 feet the sign height may be increased by two feet to a maximum height of 35 feet.

iii. Low, horizontal monument signs are preferred.

b. Wall Signs. One wall sign or freestanding sign is allowed for each street frontage not to exceed a total of two signs. The maximum sign area permitted for a building identification wall sign is equal to five percent of the facade to which it is attached, or 150 square feet, whichever is less.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 20 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

d. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are prohibited on the north side of Main Street between Lewis Avenue and Valley Avenue. Projecting signs where allowed shall be erected in accordance with SMC 18.44.170.

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

2. Individual Establishment Identification Signs. Each individual establishment in a multi-establishment building is allowed a minimum of 30 square feet of signage as set forth below. Aggregate sign area shall not apply to signs for individual establishments.

a. Freestanding signs are prohibited.

b. Wall Signs. A maximum of two wall signs are allowed, except that an establishment on a building corner is allowed one additional wall sign on the ground floor, up to 10 square feet. The maximum sign area permitted is equal to five percent of the facade to which it is attached, or 150 square feet, whichever is less.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 20 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

C. Single Establishment Buildings. Any commercial building occupied by a single establishment may erect signs as follows up to the maximum aggregate sign area:

1. Freestanding Signs.

a. One freestanding sign is allowed per street frontage of the premises up to a maximum of two signs. The maximum sign area permitted is 150 square feet. No one face shall exceed 75 square feet.

b. The freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 15 feet within 15 feet of any lot line abutting a public street right-of-way. For each additional one-foot setback beyond 15 feet, the sign height may be increased by two feet to a maximum height of 35 feet.

c. Low, monument signs are preferred.

3. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 20 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

4. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are prohibited on the north side of Main Street between Lewis Avenue and Valley Avenue. Projecting signs where allowed shall be erected in accordance with SMC 18.44.170.

5. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

6. Roof signs are prohibited.

7. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

D. Other Signs Allowed. The following signs are allowed subject to the provisions of Article III of this chapter:

1. Neighborhood identification sign per SMC 18.44.150.

2. Sandwich board/sidewalk sign per SMC 18.44.120.

3. Rear Entrance Signs. Any building with a rear entrance from a public or private parking lot or alley may have a rear entrance sign which shall be either a wall sign or a marquee or awning sign. Said sign shall not exceed 10 percent of the facade to which it is attached.

E. General Standards. Signs allowed in this section shall be subject to the following:

1. Signs may be attached flush to the building so long as they do not obscure historic building details.

2. All new signs, except for neon tube signs and digital message signs allowed under subsection (C)(8) of this section, are to be surface-lit by external light sources rather than illuminated from inside.

3. Businesses are to create individual styled signage which distinguishes their establishment. The use of icons and symbols are ways to demonstrate the product or service provided.

4. Signs which relate to pedestrian eye level may be painted on the storefront glass.

5. Decorative motifs are allowed if they are consistent with the character, integrated with the building architecture, and are not used as advertising for the business. (Ord. 2823 § 11, 2022; Ord. 2774 § 33, 2021; Ord. 2647 § 2, 2018; Ord. 2571 § 1, 2016; Ord. 2490 §§ 1, 2, 2014; Ord. 2147 § 18, 2005: Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.240 Signs permitted in the general commercial district.

Signs located in a mixed-use development shall conform to SMC 18.44.230. Cabinet signs are prohibited on properties located within the area defined as East Main Street in SMC 18.43.020. Internally illuminated channel-letter signs may be allowed when such signage enhances the design of the building and avoids repetition in sign type, style, size, and color. A cabinet sign is characterized as a single geometric shape in “box” form that typically contains all the text and/or logo symbols within a single enclosed cabinet and may or may not be illuminated. Channel-letter signs are characterized as three-dimensional individually cut letters or figures affixed to a structure and may or may not be illuminated.

A. Aggregate Sign Area. The aggregate sign area for the premises shall not exceed one and one-half square feet for each foot of street frontage. Aggregate sign area for corner lots shall not exceed one square foot for each foot of street frontage. The permitted signs enumerated below are subject to the total aggregate sign area.

B. Multi-Establishment Buildings. A single building that contains more than one establishment may erect the following signs up to the maximum aggregate sign area:

a. Freestanding Signs.

i. One freestanding sign is allowed per street frontage of the premises up to a maximum of two signs. The maximum sign area permitted is 150 square feet. No one face shall exceed 75 square feet.

ii. The freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 15 feet within 15 feet of any lot line abutting a public street right-of-way. For each additional one-foot setback beyond 15 feet, the sign height may be increased by two feet to a maximum height of 35 feet.

iii. Low, monument signs are preferred.

iv. Freestanding signs on properties located within the area defined as East Main Street in SMC 18.43.020 that are placed between the buildings and East Main Street shall have a maximum sign height of six feet and shall be monument signs; except, where the front building setback is five feet or less, then no freestanding signs are allowed.

v. Freestanding signs located within 20 feet of a combined driveway as defined in SMC 18.43.020 shall be allowed to contain names of establishments served by that combined driveway.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 10 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

d. Projecting Signs. On properties where a freestanding sign cannot be erected due to setback requirements or building placement, a projecting sign may be allowed in lieu of the permitted freestanding sign. Said projecting sign shall not exceed 15 square feet (outside dimensions). Signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170. Projecting signs are not allowed along East Main Street from Valley Avenue to 160th Avenue East.

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

a. Freestanding signs are prohibited.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 10 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

d. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are permitted and shall meet the standards set forth in SMC 18.44.170.

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

C. Single Establishment Buildings. Any commercial building occupied by a single establishment may erect signs as follows up to the maximum aggregate sign area:

1. Freestanding Signs.

a. One freestanding sign is allowed per street frontage of the premises up to a maximum of two signs. The maximum sign area permitted is 150 square feet. No one face shall exceed 75 square feet.

c. Low, horizontal monument signs are preferred.

d. Freestanding signs on properties located within the area defined as East Main Street in SMC 18.43.020 that are placed between the buildings and East Main Street shall have a maximum sign height of six feet and shall be monument signs; except, where the front building setback is less than five feet, then no freestanding signs are allowed.

e. Freestanding signs located within 20 feet of a combined driveway as defined in SMC 18.43.020 shall be allowed to contain names of establishments served by that combined driveway.

2. Wall Signs. A maximum of two wall signs are allowed on the premises, except that an establishment on a corner is allowed one additional wall sign on the ground floor up to 10 square feet. Sign area shall not exceed five percent of the area of the building facade to which it is attached, or 250 square feet, whichever is less. A single establishment building is allowed a minimum of 30 square feet of total wall signage. Signs may be illuminated externally or internally.

3. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 10 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

4. Projecting Signs. On properties where a freestanding sign cannot be erected due to setback requirements or building placement, a projecting sign may be allowed in lieu of the permitted freestanding sign. Said sign shall meet the requirements as set forth in SMC 18.44.170. Projecting signs are not allowed along East Main Street from Valley Avenue to 160th Avenue East.

5. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

6. Roof signs are prohibited.

7. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

8. Electronic reader board signs (ERBS) are allowed west of the White River as follows:

a. ERBS shall not display more than one message per eight seconds.

b. Animation between messages shall not be allowed.

c. ERBS are allowed on wall signs in lieu of a wall sign allowed in subsection (C)(2) of this section. An ERBS shall not exceed 75 percent of the allowed sign square footage, or 125 square feet, whichever is less. If ERBS are installed on freestanding signs they cannot exceed 75 percent of the allowed square footage of the sign. At least 25 percent of the sign must be fixed identification sign.

d. Only one ERBS is allowed per site and parcel.

f. ERBS shall be programmed to automatically adjust illumination for all times of day and night based on ambient light conditions using photocell technology. (Ord. 2647 § 3, 2018; Ord. 2602 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2374 § 2, 2011: Ord. 2253 §§ 6, 7, 2008; Ord. 2170 §§ 1, 2, 2006; Ord. 2088 § 7, 2004: Ord. 2040 § 7, 2003; Ord. 2015 § 9, 2002: Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.245 Signs permitted in the interchange commercial district.

B. Multi-Establishment Buildings. A single building that contains more than one establishment may erect the following signs up to the maximum aggregate sign area:

a. Freestanding Signs.

i. One freestanding sign is allowed. The maximum sign area permitted is 300 square feet. No one face shall exceed 150 square feet. The freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 45 feet.

ii. One additional freestanding sign is allowed for those properties located within 100 feet of a state route and access to the site does not front along the state route. The maximum sign area permitted is 50 square feet. No one face shall exceed 25 square feet. The additional freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of six feet.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 10 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

a. Freestanding signs are prohibited.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 10 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

d. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are permitted and shall meet the standards set forth in SMC 18.44.170.

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

C. Single Establishment Buildings. Any commercial building occupied by a single establishment may erect signs as follows up to the maximum aggregate sign area:

1. Freestanding Signs.

a. One freestanding sign is allowed. The maximum sign area permitted is 300 square feet. No one face shall exceed 150 square feet.

b. The freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 45 feet. Such maximum height shall be available regardless of sign setback.

c. One additional freestanding sign is allowed at the frontage road entrance for those properties located within 100 feet of a state route and access to the site does not front along the state route. The maximum sign area permitted is 50 square feet. No one face shall exceed 25 square feet. The additional freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of six feet.

2. Wall Signs. Sign area shall not exceed five percent of the area of the building facade to which it is attached, or 300 square feet, whichever is less. A single establishment building is allowed a minimum of 30 square feet of total wall signage. Said sign may be illuminated externally or internally. A maximum of two wall signs are allowed on the premises, except as follows:

a. On buildings with total building facade area greater than 12,500 square feet and less than 25,000 square feet: an additional two wall signs are allowed, on the first two stories only, up to a maximum of 80 square feet each.

b. On buildings with a total building facade area of 25,000 square feet or greater: an additional four wall signs are allowed, on the first two stories only, up to a maximum of 80 square feet each.

3. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 10 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

5. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

6. Roof signs are prohibited.

7. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

8. Electronic Reader Board Signs. Electronic reader board signs (ERBS) are allowed in the IC zone south of State Route 410 as follows:

a. ERBS shall not display more than one message per eight seconds.

b. Animation between messages shall be limited to one second.

c. No single electronic message is permitted to be repeated by flashing more than once every 16 seconds.

d. ERBS may only be allowed as part of a wall sign, in lieu of one wall sign allowed in subsection (C)(2) of this section. ERBS shall not exceed 75 percent of the square footage of the wall sign face allowed in subsection (C)(2) of this section, or 175 square feet, whichever is less. Freestanding ERBS are not allowed.

e. Only one ERBS is allowed per site and parcel.

f. The difference between the off and solid-message measurement using the ERBS measurement criteria shall not exceed 0.3 footcandles. The measurement distance shall be calculated by using the following formula: measurement distance = the square root of the (area of sign square feet x 100).

g. ERBS shall be programmed to automatically adjust illumination for all times of day and night. (Ord. 2647 § 4, 2018; Ord. 2571 § 2, 2016: Ord. 2374 § 3, 2011)

18.44.250 Signs permitted in industrial districts.

A. Aggregate Sign Area. The aggregate sign area for lots in the M-1 zone shall not exceed one-half square foot for each one foot of street frontage; and the aggregate sign area for corner lots shall not exceed one square foot for each one foot of street frontage. In the M-2 zone the aggregate sign area shall not exceed one square foot for each one foot of street frontage. The permitted signs enumerated below are subject to the total aggregate sign area.

B. Single Establishment Buildings. Any industrial building occupied by a single establishment may erect signs as follows up to the maximum aggregate sign area:

1. Freestanding Signs.

a. One wall sign and one freestanding sign are allowed for each street frontage of the premises not to exceed a total of three signs.

b. The maximum sign area permitted is 150 square feet. No one face shall exceed 75 square feet.

c. The freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 15 feet within 15 feet of any lot line abutting a public street right-of-way. For each additional one-foot setback beyond 15 feet, the sign height may be increased by two feet to a maximum height of 35 feet.

d. Low, horizontal monument signs are preferred.

2. Wall Signs. A maximum of two wall signs are allowed on the premises. The maximum sign area permitted is equal to five percent of the facade to which it is attached, or 300 square feet, whichever is less. A single establishment building is allowed a minimum of 30 square feet of total wall signage.

3. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 10 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

4. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are permitted in lieu of freestanding signs. Projecting signs shall be erected in accordance with SMC 18.44.170.

5. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

6. Roof signs are prohibited.

7. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

C. Multi-Establishment Buildings. A single building that contains more than one establishment may erect the following signs up to the maximum aggregate sign area:

a. Freestanding Signs.

i. One wall sign or freestanding sign is allowed for each street frontage of the premises not to exceed a total of two signs.

ii. The maximum sign area permitted is 150 square feet. No one face shall exceed 75 square feet.

iii. The freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 15 feet within 15 feet of any lot line abutting a public street right-of-way. For each additional one-foot setback beyond 15 feet, the sign height may be increased by two feet to a maximum height of 35 feet.

iv. Low, horizontal monument signs are preferred.

b. Wall Signs. One wall sign or freestanding sign is allowed for each street frontage of the premises not to exceed a total of two signs. The maximum sign area permitted for a building identification wall sign is equal to five percent of the facade to which it is attached, or 300 square feet, whichever is less.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 10 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall comply with the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

d. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are permitted in lieu of freestanding signs. Projecting signs shall be erected in accordance with SMC 18.44.170.

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

a. Freestanding signs are prohibited.

b. Wall Signs. The maximum sign area permitted is equal to five percent of the facade to which it is attached, or 300 square feet, whichever is less.

c. Window Signs. Sign area shall not exceed 10 percent of the total window area of any facade. Window signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.030(D).

d. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are permitted and shall meet the standards set forth in SMC 18.44.170.

e. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign area shall be calculated as part of total allowed area for a wall sign. No canopy sign shall extend above the top of the canopy.

f. Roof signs are prohibited.

g. Suspended Signs. Suspended signs shall meet the standards in SMC 18.44.170.

D. Other Signs Permitted. All signs listed in Article III of this chapter are permitted, provided the proposed signs meet height and size restrictions. Aggregate sign area shall apply.

1. Neighborhood and business park identification signs per SMC 18.44.150.

2. Any commercial or retail use allowed through a conditional use process may use the general commercial district standards set forth in SMC 18.44.240. (Ord. 2647 § 5, 2018; Ord. 2602 § 2, 2017: Ord. 2359 § 1, 2011: Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.260 Maintenance of signs.

All parts, portions, units and materials composing the sign, together with the frame, background, supports or anchorage thereto, shall be maintained in a proper state of safety, repair and state of preservation. The surface of all signs shall be kept neatly painted. If after written notice from the city that a sign is not properly maintained or does not directly relate to the locale upon which it is attached, and any corrections are not made within a 90-day period, the city shall remove the sign at the owner’s expense. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

Article V. Procedures

18.44.270 Permits.

It is unlawful for any person to erect, construct, enlarge, or move any sign in the city, or cause the same to be done, without first obtaining a sign permit for each such sign from the director as required by this chapter, except as follows:

A. Real estate signs meeting the requirements of SMC 18.44.160(A).

B. Nonpolitical and political campaign signs meeting the requirements in SMC 18.44.160.

C. Incidental signs meeting the requirements of SMC 18.44.195.

D. Temporary paper signs in windows meeting the requirements of SMC 18.44.030(D).

E. A change of the face of a sign, including a change of copy, provided the size of the sign face does not change.

F. Construction signs meeting the requirements in SMC 18.44.160(E).

G. Farm product identification signs meeting the requirements of SMC 18.44.160(H).

H. Community bulletin board meeting the standards in SMC 18.44.130. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.280 Application.

A city of Sumner sign permit application must be completed and submitted with all plans and layouts for a sign or sign structure and be filed with the director. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.290 Site and sign plan – Information required.

A site and sign plan shall be drawn to scale. Detailed submittal requirements shall be established by the director. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.300 Time limitation.

Permits issued by the director expire by limitation and become null and void if the structure or work authorized by such permit is not commenced within 180 days from the date of the permit, or if the structure or work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a period of 180 days. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.310 Extension of time limit.

The director may extend such permit for a single period of up to 120 days from the date of expiration of the initial permit, if request for extension is made prior to the expiration date of the initial permit. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.320 Permit fee schedule.

A. The fees prescribed in this section must be paid to the city of Sumner for each sign installation for which a permit is required by this chapter and must be paid before any such permit is issued as provided in this chapter. Fees for sign permits are set in accordance with the following schedule:

Type of Sign	Fee
Wall sign, projecting sign, suspended sign, awning or canopy signs, monument sign greater than 10 square feet	$30.00 + $12.00 for each additional sign on the same permit up to a maximum of $100.00
Wall sign, projecting sign, suspended sign, awning or canopy signs, monument sign less than 10 square feet	No charge
Freestanding sign, other than monument sign	$120.00
Schools, public facilities, and informational signs, city entrance signs, neighborhood identification signs, nonadvertising/nonpromotional, community bulletin board	No charge
Sidewalk/sandwich boards	$30.00 one-time fee, to be renewed yearly at no charge
Temporary signs	$35.00, to be renewed yearly
Special use permit for a period of 60 days	$30.00

B. There shall be no charge for sign permits provided all of the following are satisfied:

1. The application is filed and installation completed within 120 days of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter; and

2. The new signs conform to the zoning regulations and development and design guidelines; and

3. Results in the removal of existing nonconforming signs. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

18.44.330 Nonconforming signs.

A. The provisions of this chapter do not apply to signs legally in existence on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter; provided, that:

1. The alteration, enlargement, installation or erection of signage shall not increase the degree of nonconformity.

2. If the value of structural alterations to a nonconforming sign equals or exceeds 25 percent of the value of the sign, as determined by the building official, the sign shall be made to conform with all provisions of this chapter.

3. Enlargement, installation or erection of conforming signage shall be accompanied by a reduction in the degree of nonconformity for other signage existing on the premises. This reduction in nonconformity can be accomplished by a reduction in size of existing signs (if nonconforming as to square footage), removal (if nonconforming as to number of signs), relocation (if nonconforming as to location), or a combination of reduction, removal and relocation. The total cost of reduction, removal or relocation of nonconforming signage shall equal, as nearly as is practical, 75 percent of the value of the new or enlarged conforming signage, or the cost necessary to bring all signage on the premises into conformance with this chapter, whichever is the lesser requirement.

4. The provisions of subsections (A)(2) and (3) of this section do not apply to temporary signs or to illegal signs.

5. Any nonconforming off-premises sign shall comply with subsection (B) of this section.

B. Nonconforming Off-Premises Signs.

1. Any person, firm, or corporation who maintains nonconforming off-premises signs within the city of Sumner shall be authorized to maintain only that number of nonconforming off-premises signs that they maintained on October 13, 1999. At such time as necessary, said nonconforming signs may be replaced in the same location provided the sign shall not be increased in size, height or number of sign faces. Said nonconforming off-premises sign shall be replaced within 60 days of its removal.

2. Any unused nonconforming off-premises sign shall be properly maintained while not in use.

3. As unincorporated areas are annexed to the city of Sumner, the total number of nonconforming off-premises signs in that area will constitute an addition to the number authorized by the city of Sumner. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

Article VI. Liability and Penalty

18.44.340 Liability of city.

This chapter shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the responsibility of any person owning, building, altering, constructing or moving any sign in the city for damages to anyone injured or damaged either to person or property by any defect therein; nor shall the city, or any agent thereof, be held as assuming such liability by reason of a permit or inspection authorized in this chapter or a certificate of inspection issued by the city or any of its agents. (Ord. 1896 § 2 (part), 1999)

Prior legislation: Ords. 1694 and 1739, repealed by Ord. 1896.