Planning staff backs form-based sign code for downtown to simplify rules and encourage projecting signs

Planning staff told the committee that the current legacy sign provisions in Title 15 are text-heavy and can be difficult to interpret. The city is proposing to apply its existing form-based sign regulations to the downtown area to provide graphics, clear tables and diagrams for measuring sign sizes.

Staff said the proposed changes would reduce allowable wall signage from 2 square feet per linear foot of building frontage to 1.5 square feet per linear foot but would increase the maximum projecting sign area from 36 square feet to 50 square feet — changes intended to encourage pedestrian-oriented projecting signs and traditional storefront character.

Councilmember Tina Boyse asked whether the form-based rules applied to Kenmore Boulevard would be identical downtown; staff confirmed they would. Staff also clarified that appeals and variances from the form-based code would be heard by the Board of Zoning Appeals rather than by council. Councilmembers expressed support for clearer standards, noting that simplified rules could help small businesses afford projecting signage.

The committee closed the daytime public hearing on the item and invited any interested residents to the evening hearing at 5:00 p.m.