Planning commission forwards sign-code revision allowing signs above awnings and new illumination rules

The Murray City Planning Commission on Thursday unanimously forwarded a proposed sign-code text amendment to the City Council that would allow signs to be placed above awnings and canopies and simplify how sign area is calculated.

Zack Smallwood, a planning staff member, told commissioners the revision replaces a complex area equation with a clear rule: a maximum sign-face area of one square foot per linear foot of storefront, regardless of whether the sign sits on or above the awning. "So that means that if this is 50 feet wide, right, they would get 50 square feet of sign area," Smallwood said, adding the proposal would also allow internally illuminated channel lettering while continuing to prohibit cabinet-style illuminated signs.

Smallwood also said the amendment would permit projecting or hanging signs to reduce minimum clearance to seven feet when they are located above landscaping and clarified existing awning limits (awning faces remain limited to street-level businesses and 40% of the awning). He recommended that the commission "forward a positive recommendation to the city council." "I'm happy to take any questions," he said.

Chris Jensen of Evergreen Development, the applicant, spoke briefly in support and thanked staff for simplifying the application: "He did a great job," Jensen said, noting he appreciated the collaboration with staff.

Commissioner Pete Hurstow moved to forward a recommendation of approval for amendments to sections 17.48.140 (standards for signs that require a permit) and 17.48.180 (transit-oriented development/city-center form-based-code district and mixed-use zone signs). Commissioner Aaron Hildreth seconded the motion. A roll call vote showed unanimous support and Chair Faye Rogers declared the motion passed. The item will proceed to the Murray City Council for consideration.

The proposed amendment was presented as a clarification and streamlining of the existing code and staff said the change "does not conflict with any recommendation in the general plan." No public commenters addressed the sign-code item during the meeting. The City Council will receive the commission's recommendation and schedule further review and possible final action.