HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report for City CouncilSTAFF REPORT Hearing Date: December 8, 2009
TO: Mayor and City Council E IDIAN ~,
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FROM: I{risty Vigil, Assistant City Planner
208-884-5533
SUBJECT: ZOA-09-004 -Sign Code and Associated Sections Text Amendment
1. SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF APPLICANT'S REQUEST
The applicant, the City of Meridian Planning Department, has applied for a Zoning Ordinance
Amendment (ZOA) to amend the text of the Unified Development Code (UDC). The sections
proposed for amendment include signs, definitions, measurements, nonconforming, outdoor
lighting, alternative compliance, and conditional uses. The purpose of the zoning
ordinance/unified development code (UDC) text amendment is to restructure the sign wde and
related code to clean up specific sections that City Staff believes will make the implementation
and use of the UDC more understandable and enforceable. Please see Section 7 below for a
complete list of the proposed UDC amendments.
2. SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION
Staff is recommending approval of the UDC text amendment (ZOA-09-004) based on the
detailed analysis provided below and Findings of Facts listed in Exhibit B. The Meridian
Planning and Zoning Commission heard this item on November 19, 2009. At the public
hearing the Commission voted to recommend approval of the subject ZOA request.
a. Summary of Commission Public Hearine:
i. In favor: Vireinia Cunnineham. Kathy Reitz
ii. In ouuosition: None
iii. Commentine: None
iv. Written testimony: Vireinia Cunnineham. Lytle Siens
v. Sta_ff_presentine aaalicatior: Kristy Vied
vi. Other staff commertine on application: Anna Carmine
b. Key Issue(s) of Discussion by Commission:
i. The minimum vertical clearance of any hareine Sian under a canopy from
sixteen and ore-half feet (16.5') to thirteen and one-half feet (13.5'1.
ii. To allow proiectine Siens in all districts.
c. Key Commission Chanee(s) to Staff Recommendation:
i. Per recommendation of Staff, the Commission recommended approval to
charee the minimum vertical clearance of any haneine Sian under a canopy
from sixteen and one-half feet (16S') to thirteen and one-half feet (13.5'). Staff
has made this chaneed in the recommendation (see 11-3D-8A15).
ii. The Commission recommended allowire proiectire Siens it all districts with
approved alternative compliance application. Staff has made this chanee in
the recommendation (see table 11-SB-5).
d. Outstandine Issue(s) for City Council:
i. The draft Sian code prohibits any benches with commercially available space
for advertisine. However. Staff understands the need for bus benches
located at desienated bus stops. Therefore. Staff will collaborate with
aeencies to develop an aereement for such benches and amended the UDC
accordinely.
ii. Followire the Commission Meetine, Staff became aware of a minor issue im
the proposed nonconformine section. As proposed in UDC 11-1B-6A4, any
Sian would become an illeeal Sian if there are alterations or enlareements to
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DEC 0 3 ~~~
CITY OF ~
CITY CLERKS OFFICE
the site or buildine on the property in excess of twenty-five percent (25%) or
more of the existine site or buildine.
Staff recoenizes that this standard may neeatively affect the alacement of a
sien, e.e., setbacks and distance between siens. Therefore. Staff proposes to
add langua¢e to this standard that would exclude the placement of existine
siens for nonconformine purposes.
3. PROPOSED MOTION
Approval
After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to approve File Number ZOA-
09-004 as presented in the staff report for the hearing date of December 8, 2009 with the
following modifications: (add any proposed modifications.)
Denial
After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to deny File Number ZOA-09-
004 as presented during the hearing on December, 2009 for the following reasons: (You should
state specific reasons for denial.)
Continuance
After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to continue File Number ZOA-
09-004, to (insert specific hearing date), and direct staff to make the following changes: (insert
comments here.)
4. APPLICATION FACTS
a. Site Address/Location: City-wide.
b. Applicant/Representative:
City of Meridian Planning Department
33E. Broadway Avenue
Meridian, Idaho 83642
Applicant's Statement/Justification: Since the sign code was adopted in 2001 there have been
minor updates, but there has not been a major rewrite of the sign code since the initial
adoption. Staff feels the rewrite and restructure of the sign code will reduce uncertainty,
increase readability, improve enforcement, and increase functionality of the code. See
applicant's narrative for more information.
5. PROCESS FACTS
a. The subject application will in fact constitute a Unified Development CodelZoning Ordinance
amendment as determined by City Ordinance. By reason of the provisions of the Meridian
City Code Title 11 Chapter 5, a public hearing is required before the Planning & Zoning
Commission and City Council on this matter.
b. Newspaper notifications published on: November 2°~ and 16's, 2009 (Planning & Zoning
Commission); November 23'a and 30th 2009 (Gifu Council).
c. A public service announcement was broadcast faxed on November 6, 2009 and November 20,
2009 (Gifu Council) regarding this application.
6. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN POLICIES AND GOALS
The City's Comprehensive Plan is a vision and policy document for guiding development and the
transportation needs in the City of Meridian. Staff finds that the subject Zoning Ordinance Amendment
wmplies with and furthers the goals and objectives of the 2002 Comprehensive Plan. The specific
objectives and actions that support the proposed amendment are listed below:
Chapter VII
• Goal II, Obj. A, #5 -Amend the zoning ordinance and map to implement the provisions
of this plan (referring to comprehensive plan).
• Goal N, Obj. B, #1-Provide incentives for Old Town.
• Goal V, Obj. C, #5 -Eliminate vague/unclear standards in development ordinances.
Staff finds that the subject ZOA application is harmonious with and in accordance with the applicable
objectives of the Comprehensive Plan. The proposed text amendment will create a sign code that is
progressive and concise. Implementing such a sign code will provide Meridian residents and business
partners functionality while taking into account aesthetically pleasing structures. A portion of the
amendment will provide business owners in Old Town an opportunity for increased visibility with
different types of sign choices. Making the code clearer and eliminating areas of uncertainty will
enhance service for Meridian residents and business partners alike.
7. UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE/ZONING ORDINANCE
Staff has identified specific sections of the UDC that should be amended for the code to function
efficiently. The sections proposed for amendment include signs, definitions, measurements,
nonconforming, outdoor lighting, alternative compliance, and conditional uses. Staffbelieves the changes
proposed in this memo represent changes that will make the implementation and use of the UDC more
understandable, equitable, and enforceable. The Planning Department Staffis proposing to amend certain
UDC sections as follows:
Section Text
11-1A-1 ARCHITECTURAL BLADE: An integral part of the design and function of the
stntcture rather than an ob'ect added to or standin on the structure.
CANOPY: A roof like structure projecting from the exterior surface of a Ag;
structure and of sufficient hei t and design to drive under. Detached canopy
structures, e.g„ a fuel station facilityshall be considered a separate structuro-l~t
FLAG: Any fabric, banner, or bunting containingdistinctive colors, nattems or
symbols, used as a symbol of eovernment, political subdivision, or other entity
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ILLUMINATION: See SIGN CHAPTER DEFINITIONS for definition of
illuminated sien.
MURALS AND ARTISTIC GRAPHICS: Any abstract
mosaic, mural, painting, graphic art technique, or any combination thereof that
does not contain any copy, business logo, or other visual elements intended to
advertise.
11-1A-1 '
SIGN: ,
,
SIGN CHAPTER DEFINITIONS (chapter 3 article D of this title):
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Awning Sign: The copy area or separate background azeas attached to an awning.
Background Area: The azea comprising the portion of a sign on which copy could
be placed, not including the supporting structure.
Banner: ,
A sien made of fabric or
other similar non-rigid material with no enclosing framework or electrical
com onents that is su orted or anchored on two or more ed es or at all four
corners. Banners also include non-rigid signs anchored along one edee or two
corners.
• ,
Building Sign Allowance: The allowed sign area for each elevation, excluding
freestanding signs and including awning signs, canopy signs, changeable copes
signs, hanging signs, projecting signs, wall signs, and window signs.
Business Identification Sign: A si~- that serves to identify only the name, address.
and lawful use or uses of the premises upon which it is located and provides no
other advertisements or product identification.
Canopy Sign: The copy area or separate background areas attached to a canopy.
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Changeable Copy Sign: A sign on which copy maybe changed whether manually
or electronically:
A. Animated Changeable Copy Sign: A changeable copy sign, anv visible part of
which blinks, flashes, moves or changes color to deaict action or create a special
effect or scene, regardless of the source of energy causing the animation.
B. Manual Changeable Copy Sign: A changeable copy sign=any visible part of
which is constructed with removable letters and is not electronically changeable.
Conformine Sign: A sien that conforms to the requirements of chapter 3 article D
of this title.
Construction Sign:
' A sign on a
prop or portion thereof that has a valid and active buildingpennit.
Co
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' .Any combination of
letters the space between the letters, numbers, identifyingprint, symbols,
illustrations, logos, or other graphic elements which wnveys information.
Co y Area: The area of the sign occu ied by co y as defined herein '
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Directional Sign: " " "
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A freestanding_sign directing
automobile movement through a site that has adrive-through establishment.
Freestanding Sign: A sign whose background or copy area is wholly supported by
a column, pole, foundation, pedestal or other support structure in or upon the
ground and that is independent from any ~ other structure.
Freestanding Sign Allowance: The allowed sign area for a propertv, excluding
building signs and including, freestanding signs, directional signs, and banners
and/or other signs attached to freestanding structures such as a pole.
Hanging Sign: A sign suspended below an
awning and/or a canopy.
Illegal Sign:
A. Any sign and/or sign structure that does not conform to the requirements of
chanter 3 article D of this title and for which a permit was never issued and that
cannot meet the requirements of a nonconforming sign.
B. A sign and/or sign structure lacking a current and valid permit.
Illuminated Sign: A sign that uses a source of light for illumination, including bnt
not limited to the following:
A. Direct illumination: A source of light located away from the si icg
that lights the
_
si and is visible to arsons viewin the si from a street sidewalk arkin area
or nei boring property
B. Indirect illumination: A source of light located away from the si tl~ghts
the sign, but which is itself not visible to persons viewing the sign from any street,
sidewalk, pazking azea, or nei boringpronerty,
C. Internal illumination: A source of light that is concealed or contained within the
sign and becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface.
D. Neon tube illumination: A source of light for externally lit signs supplied by a
neon tube that is bent to form letters. symbols, or other shapes.
E. Limited Duration Sign: Any sign allowed onl~to be displayed for a limited
period of time and capable of being viewed from any street, sidewalk, parking area
or abuttingproperty.
Marketing Sign: A sign ,
on a property or any portion thereof available for
inspection, sale, lease, or rent, but not including limited duration signs.
Nonconforming Sign: A sign, sign structure, or use of a sign lawfully exi~tg
' xisting_prior to ~Tanuazv 1. ZO10 but that
does not now conform to the dimensional and/or locational standards for the
district in which it is located.
Off-yremises Outdoor Advertising Sim: Anv outdoor sign. displav, light. device,
figure, yainting, drawing message,plaque, poster, billboazd or other thing which
is designed, intended or used to advertise or inform and which is situated in order
to be visible from any highway, or other traveled way and which is located on
property which is separate from and not adjoining the premises orQrop on
which the advertised activiri is carried out. (See Idaho Code ~ 40-1910A.1
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Pole Cover: Decorative s~st~re-eF treatment that encloses the support structure of
a freestanding sign.
Portable Sig~y A-frame, T-Frame, and similar freestanding, movable signs
that are placed on the sidewalk for the uromotion of a business and/or uroduct.
- Comment [ABCs]: Note to Co~mc~l.
-------'' This is the proposedadaptiondate.Ifthe
adoption date. changes, we will update
accordingly.
Projecting Sign: A sign other than a wall sign, that projects from and is supported
entirely by a wall of a building or other structure.
~e~uild~g}i~e:
Roof Sign: Any sign erected and constructed wholly on and over the roof of a
building, supported by the roof structure or extending vertically above the ~
pertie~ eaves of the roof, with the exception that a mansazd roof sign is treated as
a wall sign.
Scrolling: Text or graphics, usually as part of an electronic reader boazd,
which moves up or down or across a display screen in a consistent and predictable
manner.
Sign: Any device, fixture, ulacard, or structure that uses any color. form, chic,
illumination, symbol, or writins to advertise, announce the puroose of. or identify
the purpose of aperson or entity, to communicate information of any kind to the
public. See figure 1, section 11-3D-1 of this title.
Sign Structure: Any structure that is specifically designed to support a sign,
including decorative cover.
Subdivision Identification Sign: A
freestanding sign that identifies a platted subdivision name or the name under
which such subdivision is being mazketed.
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Under Awning Sign: See definition of Hangine Sien.
Under Canopy Sign:
See definition of Hanging Sign.
Vehicle sign: A sign on a vehicle of any kind that is directly affixed to the bod~f
the original vehicle, including but not limited to, magnetic decals, vinyl stickers.
vinyl wraps, and/or paint.
Wall Area: The wall surface of a sinele tenant structure or the storefront of a
multi-tenant structure.
Wall Sign: Any sign that is attached, erected, or painted on the exterior wall of a
structure with the exposed face of the sign parallel to the wall. ~4lse-k~ew~s-a
Window Sign: Any sign, ,
upon or within twelve inches (12") of the windowpanes or glass of a window and
visible from the exterior of the window.
11-1-SB B. Measurements:
3. The azea of the sign background shall be computed by measuring the area
enclosed by straight lines drawn to enclose the extremities of the copy.
When computing the azea of si backazound only the face or faces that
may be seen from one direction at one time shall be considered If a signs
consists of individual letters, only the total azea enclosed by straight lines
drawn to enclose each letter shall be computed as si background azea.
4. The heig t of a sign shall be computed by measuring the distance
measured vertically from the top of curb of the abuttin sg treet (or, where
no curb exists. from the edge of pavement) to the highest point of the sim
or visual appurtenan s). The hei t of any landscape berm or other
structure erected to support or ornament the sien shall be measured as
part of the sign height. This allowance does not apply to streets that are
part of a freeway interchange or overpass.
5. For residential subdivision identification sins, sien height applies only to
that portion of a structure which is ~hvsically supporting the sign
back ound area. Other azchitectural elements 'maril related to an
entry feature that may be associated with the subdivision identification
sign are not regulated as Dart of the sign height.
6. The projection of a sign is measured by the distance by which a sign
extends beyond the buildin lg ine.
11-1 B NONCONFORMING PROPERTY, USE ~AI~STRUCTURE OR SIGN
11-1B-1 Purpose:
The purpose of this article is to allow any nonconforming property, use, or
structure that lawfully existed prior to Ste tember I5, 2005 and any sign that
lawfully existed prior to January 1, 2010 «,,o e+xe„«:.,e a.,«e iee.,«e..,,.e.. , c ~nnc~
„ram to continue until they are removed, but not to encourage their
continuation. It is further the intent of this article that nonconforming properties,
uses, structures, or signs shall not expand or extend the
nonconforming aspect of the property, use, eF structure, or sign unless approved
l
subject to a conditional use permit as set forth
in ,
" "Section 11-SB-6, of this title.
11-1B-2 Applicability:
These regulations shall apply to any lawfully existing nonconforming property,
use, of structure, or sign in any district, except: i~Fn the event that a property, use,
eF structure, or sign that was deemed nonconforming under past regulations now
complies with the standards of this title, such property, use, eF structure, or si
shall be deemed conformin .
11-IB-6 ~ielatie~cs:
11-1B-6 NONCONFORMING SIGN:
A. Except as set forth in Section 11-1 B-6B, a nonconforming sign shall lose its
nonconforming status and may become an illegal sign if any of the
followin og ccur:
1. The siex- and/or sien structure is moved.
2. The sign and/or sign structure is replaced and/or removed for any
ueriod of time.
3. There is a change in, cessation of, and/or abandonment of the use of
the property, or any portion thereof, on which the sign and/or sign
structure is located.
4. There are alterations or enlargements to the site or building on the
property in excess of twen -five percent (ZS%) or more of the
existing site or building. The amount of alterations and/or
enlargements shall be cumulative over time.
5. The sign and/or sign structure is damaged to the extent of more than
fifty percent (50%) of its replacement value.
B. Any nonconforming sign that is subject to the Idaho Code 6 40-1910A
related to the removal of off-premises outdoor advertising along state
hi ways shall lose its nonconforming status and may become an illegal
si ng if any of the following occur:
1. The si~- and/or sign structure is moved.
2. The sign structure is replaced and/or removed for any period of time.
C. Where a nonconforming sign becomes an ille ag 1 sign, the owner of the
property on which the illegal sien is located shall:
1. Remove the sign within sixty (60) days;
2. Bring the sign into full compliance with this title within sixty (60)
days; or
3. Submit a complete application for conditional use approval within
thirty (30) days and subsequently gain approval reinstating the
nonconforming status of the sit~-. If the conditional use is not
approved, the owner of the pmpertv on which the sign is located shall
remove the sign within thirty (30) days.
11-3A-11B
l~e~zeetal:
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11-3A-11B B. The installation. use, or display of any of the following_twes of lighting
and/or illumination shall be prohibited:
1. Mercu va or lam fixture and/or lam .
2. Laser source light or any similar high intensity light.
3. Lighting that changes colors, revolves, or moves, including
searchlights shall be prohibited in all districts, except where approved
for temporary uses under a valid, current city of Meridian temporary
use permit.
4. Li tiny, including strings of lights, on commercial or yrivate tower
structures that exceed the district height limit, except as required by
regulations of the federal aviation administration (FAAI.
5. Strobing, revolving, or flashing lights. .
6. Light or illumination with such brilliance or so positioned as to blind
or dazzle the vision of drivers and/or pedestrians.
7. Low uressure sodium li ring;
I1-SB-5 Table 11-SB-5
Landscaping for base of freestanding sign ~-X311-3D-8
Pro'ectin Si s 11-3D
11-SB-6
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B. Atmlicability: The provisions of this section shall apply to:
1. All uses identified as conditional use in chapter 2, "District Regulations", of
this title.
2. As required by sa~ific development standards in chapter 4, "Specific Use
Standazds", of this title.
3. Nonconforming properties, uses, structures, and signs as set forth in chanter
1, article 1 of this title.
11-3D-1 Delete current text and replace with the following:
through
11-3D-10
11-3D-1: PURPOSE: The regulations of this article are intended to:
A. Require architectural and aesthetic harmony for signs as they relate to building design and
surrounding landscaping.
B. Regulate sign size, height, and quality of signs, which will allow for good visibility for the public
and the needs of business while providing for the health and safety of the public by minimizing
distractions to motorists and pedestrians.
C. Regulate signs that will be compatible with the building, site conditions and land uses the signs are
intended to identify.
D. Establish design criteria for signs to promote a well maintained and attractive community, which
aze compatible with their surroundings, and do not detract from the overall visual quality of the
City.
E. Recognize the need for adequate business identification, advertising, and communication for
Meridian residents, businesses, employees and visitors.
F. Establish and facilitate easy and agreeable communication between panple.
G. Set forth procedures that will facilitate the efficient processing of sign applications.
Awning
Aro1e~ing Sign
Sign
Free Sfandeng
Sign
Sign
FJgure T
Sign Types
11-3D-2: APPLICABILITY:
A. The sign standazds provided in this article are intended to apply to any sign in all zoning districts in
the City. Only signs authorized by this article shall be allowed.
B. Murals and artistic graphics, as defined in chapter 1, azticle A, "Definitions", of this title are not
regulated by this code.
C. Nonconforming signs are subject to the provisions of Section 11-1B-6 (Nonconforming Properties,
Uses, Structures, and Signs), of this title, in addition to this article. All existing off-premises
outdoor advertising signs within the city aze nonconforming due to dimensional and/or locational
standards.
D. A permit shall not be required for a change of copy on any sign, nor for the repainting, cleaning or
other normal maintenance or repair of a sign or sign structure for which a permit has previously
been issued in accord with this code, provided that the sign or sign structure is not altered in any
way.
E. For the purposes of this title, the term residential district shall also include the traditional
neighborhood residential district.
F. Exemptions: The provisions of the article shall not apply to the following:
1. Public hearing notice signs as required by section 11-SA-SD of this title.
2. Conventional flags, emblems, or insignia of any national or political subdivision or
corporation.
3. Governmental signs for the control of traffic or other regulatory purposes, or signs of public
service companies indicating danger, that are erected by or on the order of a public officer in
the performance of public duty.
4. Any sign erected by or under the authority of the City of Meridian for direction to places of
general interest including, but not limited to, colleges, auditoriums, fairgrounds, hospitals,
airports, pazks, and playgrounds
5. Signs located within the interior of any business that aze more than twelve inches (12") away
from the window and that are not attached to the window glass.
6. Memorial signs or tablets, names or buildings and date of erection that aze cut into masonry
surface or inlaid so as to be part of the building.
7. Public signs required or specifically authorized for a public purpose by any law, statute or
ordinance, that may be of any type, number, area, height above grade, location, illumination
or animation as required by the law, statute or ordinance under which the signs are erected.
8. Historical signs or mazkers.
9. "No Trespassing" or "No Dumping" signs that do not exceed one and one-half (1.5) square
feet in area per sign and that are located such that they do not exceed one per one hundred
feet (100') of the perimeter of the property. Special permission may be obtained from the
director for additional signs where hazazdous or public nuisance conditions exist.
10. Signs related to temporary uses regulated by the provisions of title 3, chapter 4 of this code,
shall not require a sign permit under the provisions of this title, but shall comply with any
and all applicable provisions of title 3, chapter 4 of Meridian City Code.
11-3D-3: PROCESS:
A. Application Required: For projects requiring a sign permit approval, the applicant shall submit a
sign permit application. Except as otherwise provided in this article, it shall be unlawful for any
person to erect, construct, enlazge, move or convert any sign in the city, or cause the same to be
done, without a sign permit.
1. An application and fees, in accord with chapter 5, "Administration", of this title, shall be
submitted to the director on forms provided by the planning department.
2. The director shall apply the standazds listed in this article to review the sign permit
request.
3. The City's Design Guidelines shall apply in the evaluation of Sign Permit applications to
ensure that signs meet or exceed the intent of the Design Guidelines.
4. No sign permit shall be issued for any property and/or business that has an outstanding
notice of violation.
B. Effect Of Issuance: No permit for a sign issued hereunder shall be deemed to constitute permission
or authorization to maintain an unlawful sign nor shall any permit issued hereunder constitute a
defense in an action to abate an unlawful sign.
C. Maintenance: It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to continually maintain any and all
signs on his/her property. The sign, copy, and materials shall be maintained and kept in good
condition and repair to guazd against decay, unsafe, and poorly maintained signs.
D. Inspection: The director and/or building official are hereby empowered to enter or inspect, upon
notification of the property owner or manager, any building, structure or premises in the city on
which or in connection with which a sign is located, for the purpose of inspection of the sign, its
structural and electrical connections, and to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Meridian
City Code. Such inspections shall be carried out during business hours, unless an emergency exists.
The applicant shall attach the permit issued by planning department to any approved sign of limited
duration in a visible manner and accessible for inspection. Any sign of limited duration that does
not have an attached permit shall be in violation to this article.
E. Signs Declazed Hazazdous: The director and/or building official shall have the authority to order
the repair or structural alteration for safety of signs that present a hazard to the public. Upon
finding that any sign endangers public safety, the director and/or building official may declaze the
sign hazardous. The director and/or building official shall send the owner written notice that the
sign has been declazed hazardous, specifying the reasons why the sign endangers public safety, and
order that the sign be repaired or removed by the owner within thirty (30) days. If a sign
determined to be hazardous presents an immediate and serious danger to the public, it may be
immediately removed by the city without prior notice and the removal costs charged to the owner.
F. Time Limitations on sign permit approval:
1. Where the sign permit also requires a building permit, the Planning Department approval
shall be governed by the building permit. That is to say that as long as the building permit
is valid, the Planning Department approval is valid as well. If the building permit is
deemed expired. The Planning Department approval of the sign permit expires as well.
2. Where the sign permit does not require a building permit, the Planning Department
approval shall become null and void if erection or construction of the sign on site is not
commenced within six (6) months from the date the permit was issued If work authorized
by such permit is suspended or abandoned for six (6) months at any time after the work is
commenced the permit shall be null and void.
3. For any expired sign permit, the applicant shall obtain a new sign permit.
11-3D-4: PROHIBITED SIGNS: The following types of signs are prohibited in all districts:
A. Any sign not specifically allowed by this article as determined by the Director.
B. Any private signs within public right of way or upon city-owned property. This shall not prohibit
the transportation authority or city from placing signs on such property.
C. Any signs which because of color, wording, design, size, movement, location or illumination
resemble or conflict with any traffic control device or with the safe and efficient flow of traffic.
D. Any sign displaying red, blue or blinking intermittent light likely to be mistaken for a warning or
danger signal.
E. Any signs that emit any sound, odor or visible matter.
F. Any abandoned nonconforming signs. (See sections 11-1B-6 and 11-3D-8 of this title).
G. Any benches with commercially available space for advertising.
H. Any sign that includes strobing, revolving or flashing lights.
I. Any sign using a prohibited light source as set forth in Section 11-3A-11 of this title.
J. Any signs within the clear vision triangle as set forth in section 11-3A-3, "Access 'To Streets", of
this title.
K. Any signs for illegal uses.
L. Any signs that block the visibility of any other sign due to their location, size, and/or height within
a fifty-foot (50') radius.
M. Any roof signs.
N. Any sign within any stream or drainage canal or within a floodway.
O. Any sign not maintained in a safe condition.
11-3D-5: SUBDIVISION H)ENTIFICATION SIGNS: The following standards shall apply to
subdivision identification signs:
A. General Standazds for Subdivision Identification Signs: The following standazds shall apply to
Subdivision Identification Signs in all districts:
1. Subdivision identification signs may benon-illuminated or may have indirect, internal, or
direct illumination. Neon tube illumination is prohibited.
2. Subdivision identification signs using direct illumination shall tazget the lighting to the copy
azea of the sign to prevent trespass lighting and/or light pollution.
3. Subdivision identification signs located within medians shall be a minimum of twenty feet
(20') back from the right of way line of the perpendicular street.
4. Subdivision identification signs shall only identify the subdivision name (or the name under
which it is being marketed) or development name (including but not limited to a multi-
family or commercial development). Such signs shall not identify any business, tenant, or
developer names.
All subdivision identification signs shall meet the setback standards in section 11-3D-8A3.
A permit is required for any subdivision identification sign.
B. In addition to the general standards for subdivision identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standards shall apply to subdivision identification signs in residential districts (R-2, R-4,
R-8; R-15, R-40, and TN-R):
The maximum allowed background area for subdivision identification signs shall not exceed
fifty (50) square feet.
The maximum height of any subdivision identification sign shall not exceed six feet (6'). See
section 11-1-SB4 of this title for azchitectural element standards.
A maximum of two (2) subdivision identification signs are allowed at etch street entrance to
the development or subdivision.
C. In addition to the general standards for subdivision identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standards shall apply to subdivision identification signs in commercial districts (L-O, C-
N, C-C, C-G, M-E, and H-E):
1. The maximum allowed background azea for subdivision identification signs in L-O, C-N, C-
C, and M-E districts shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet.
2. The maximum allowed background area for subdivision identification signs in C-G and H-E
districts shall not exceed two hundred (200) square feet.
3. The maximum height of any subdivision identification sign shall not exceed the maximum
building height of the district.
4. A maximum of one (1) subdivision identification sign is allowed at each street entrance to
the development or subdivision.
D. In addition to the general standards for subdivision identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standards shall apply to subdivision identification signs in traditional neighborhood
districts (O-T and TN-C):
The maximum allowed background azea for subdivision identification signs shall not exceed
eighty (80) squaze feet.
The maximum height of any subdivision identification sign shall not exceed the maximum
building height of the district.
A maximum of one (1) subdivision identification sign is allowed at each street entrance to
the development or subdivision.
E. In addition to the general standards for subdivision identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standards shall apply to subdivision identification signs in industrial districts (I-L and I-
The maximum allowed background area for subdivision identification signs shall not exceed
one hundred and fifty (150) squaze feet.
The maximum height of any subdivision identification sign shall not exceed the maximum
building height of the district.
A maximum of one (1) subdivision identification sign is allowed at each street entrance to
the development or subdivision.
11-3D-6: MARKETING SIGNS: The following standazds shall apply to properties being mazketed for
lease and/or sale:
A. General Standazds for Mazkering Signs: The following standazds shall apply to mazketing signs in
all districts:
1. All marketing signs shall meet the setback standazds in section 11-3D-8A3.
2. A maximum of three (3) mazketing signs are allowed for properties abutting a collector or an
arterial street and a maximum of one (1) mazketing sign is allowed for all other properties.
3. Illumination is prohibited for any marketing sign.
4. A permit is not required for any mazketing sign.
B. In addition to the general standazds for mazkering signs set forth in this section, the following
standards shall apply to marketing signs for three or less dwelling units per property in residential
districts (R-2, R-4, R-8, R-15, RHO, and TN-R):
The maximum allowed background azea for mazketing signs shall not exceed sixteen (16)
square feet for common azea lots abutting a collector or arterial street and six (6) square feet
for all other lots.
The maximum height of any mazketing sign shall not exceed six feet (6').
C. In addition to the general standazds for mazkering signs set forth in this section, the following
standards shall apply to marketing signs for multi-family developments and allowed non-
residential uses in residential districts (R-2, R-4, R-8, R-I5, R-40, and TN-R):
The maximum allowed background azea for mazketing signs shall not exceed thirty two (32)
squaze feet.
The maximum height of any mazketing sign shall not exceed ten feet (10').
D. In addition to the general standazds for mazketing signs set forth in this section, the following
standards shall apply to marketing signs for all other districts (L-O, C-N, C-C, M-E, C-G, H-E, O-
T, TN-C, I-L, and, I-H)
The maximum allowed background azea for mazketing signs shall not exceed thirty two (32)
squaze feet.
The maximum height of any mazketing sign shall not exceed twelve feet (12').
11-3D-7: CONSTRUCTION SIGNS: The following standazds shall apply to properties under
construction:
A. General Standazds for Construction Signs by the Owner and/or Developer:
1. Any construction sign shall not be erected prior to issuance of a valid building permit. If
such building permit lapses or ceases to be valid, any construction sign shall be removed
immediately.
2. Any construction sign shall not be erected more than thirty (30) days prior to
commencement of construction.
3. Any construction sign shall be confined to the site of construction.
4. Any construction sign shall be removed five (5) days after completion of construction and
prior to occupancy.
5. A maximum of three (3) construction signs are allowed per property.
6. All construction signs shall meet the setback standazds in section I 1-3D-8A3.
7. A permit is not required for any construction sign.
B. In addition to the general standards for construction signs set forth in this section, the following
standards shall apply to construction signs in residential districts (R-2, R-4, R-8, R-15, R-40, and
TN-R):
1. The maximum background azea for construction signs shall not exceed six (6) squaze feet.
2. The maximum height of any construction sign shall not exceed six feet (6').
C. In addition to the general standards for construction signs set forth in this section, the following
standazds shall apply to construction signs for all other districts (L-O, C-N, C-C, M-E, C-G, H-E,
O-T, TN-C, I-L, and, I-H):
1. The maximum background area for construction signs shall not exceed thirty two (32) squaze
feet.
2. The maximum height of any construction sign shall not exceed twelve feet (12').
11-3D-8: BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION SIGNS: The following standards shall apply to business
identification signs:
A. General Standazds for Business Identification Signs: The following standazds shall apply to
Business Identification Signs in all districts:
1. Abandoned Signs: Except as otherwise provided in this wde, any sign and/or sign structure
located on property that has been continuously vacant for a period exceeding six (6) months
or longer shall be deemed as abandoned.
a. An abandoned nonconforming sign and/or sign structure is subject to the standazds set
forth in section 11-1B-6 of this title.
b. An abandoned conforming sign and/or sign structures may remain.
Sign Maintenance And Repair. The owner of any sign and/or the owner of real property on
which any sign is located shall maintain such signs and/or signs structures in a state of good
appearance, security, safety and repair ,including but limited to the following:
a. Any metal pole covers and sign cabinets shall be kept free of rust and rust stains.
b. Any internally illuminated sign cabinets or sign panels that have been damaged shall
remain non-illuminated until repaired.
c. Any sign that has been damaged to such extent that it may pose a safety hazard shall be
repaired or removed immediately.
d. Any exposed lamps or ballasts shall be prohibited.
Setbacks And Location of Freestanding and Limited Duration Signs: In all districts, no part
of a freestanding and/or limited duration sign, including the footing, shall be located closer
than five feet (5') from any street property line and twelve and one-half feet (12.5') from any
rear or interior side property line, unless greater separation is required.
Signs on a Property Abutting a Residential District: The following standards shall apply to
all signs on a property abutting a residential district:
a. Illuminated freestanding signs shall be allowed in the required street landscape buffer.
b. Illuminated freestanding signs not in the required street landscape buffer shall be less
than eight feet (8') in height or shall be located greater than one hundred feet (100') from
any residential district.
c. Illuminated building signs shall not face a residential district unless located greater than
one hundred feet (100') from such residential district.
Building Sign Design: All awning signs, canopy signs, hanging signs, projecting signs,
and/or wall signs for business identification shall meet the following design standards:
a. The elements comprising the sign, including, but not limited to, areas devoted to copy,
background area, supports, lighting fixtures, and any other architectural appurtenances or
detailing shall be harmonious in scale and proportion and the design of the sign,
including color scheme, shall be compatible with the wall face.
b. Signs shall be designed and constructed with a material or combination of materials that
are durable and contribute to an aesthetic appearance.
c. No sign and/or sign structures shall diminish the aesthetics or architectural integrity of
the structure to which it is attached For example, cabinets shall not cut across columns or
other architectural features.
Freestanding Sign Design: All freestanding signs for business identification shall meet the
following design standard:
a. The elements comprising a fr~standing sign, including, but not limited to, areas devoted
to copy, bases, podiums, supports, structures, caps, lighting fixtures, and any other
architectural appurtenances or detailing shall be harmonious in scale and proportion to all
other elements of the sign and the entire sign as a whole to create a unified and aesthetic
appearance.
b. Freestanding signs shall be designed and constructed with a material or combination of
materials that aze durable and contribute to an aesthetic appearance.
c. Architectural appurtenances or other decorative elements that do not contain copy are
allowed up to a maximum of fifteen percent (15%) of the district's allowable sign height.
d. Freestanding signs supported by poles that aze thirty five feet (35') or less in height shall
have a covering designed to fully enclose the pole(s). Such coverings may include, but
not be limited to, stucco, decorative metal, rock, simulated rock, and/or brick. Paint, thin
vinyl wraps, or similar materials that do not enclose or modify the structural appearance
of the post or the pole shall be prohibited.
e. Special decorative elements such as sculptured metal, wrought iron or other aesthetically
pleasing materials that aze incorporated into the support structure design and do not fully
enclose the structure may be allowed, when such decorative elements meet or exceed the
intent of this subsection.
Street Address: All freestanding signs, except as otherwise approved for residential
subdivision identification, shall include the street address of the subject property and shall
meet the following standazds:
a. The placement of the street address on the sign shall be in addition to any address
required to be placed on the structure, unless otherwise authorized by the Meridian fire
departrnent.
b. Numbering shall be a minimum of three and one-half inches (3.5") tall and be of a
contrasting color. Along arterial streets, numbering shall be a minimum of six inches (6")
tall and be of a contrasting color. Additionally, any freestanding sign located on a corner
property shall be include the street name and address.
c. Street addresses shall not be included in the calculation for sign background azea, except
for those portions that aze used to identify the business name, e.g., the 123 Main Street
Day Caze Facility.
d. Signs that identify multiple structures and/or addresses may provide a range of addresses.
Awning signs, when allowed by this article, shall meet the following standazds:
a. All awning signs shall count as part of the building sign allowance as set forth in sections
I 1-3D-8B through 11-3D-SH.
b. Awning signs shall benon-illuminated or may have indirect or internal illumination.
Direct and/or neon tube illumination are prohibited.
c. Any awning sign shall not extend above the top of the awning structure.
d A permit is required for any awning sign.
Banners and/or signs attached to freestanding structures, e.g., pazking light pole(s), when
allowed by this article, shall meet the following standards:
a. The maximum background azea for each sign shall not exceed five (5) squaze feet.
b. All such signs shall benon-illuminated.
c. All supporting structures shall meet the setback standards in section 11-3D-8A3.
d. All such sign(s) shall only be approved in conjunction with a freestanding sign permit.
10. Canopy signs, when allowed by this article, shall meet the following standards:
a. All canopy signs shall count as part of the building sign allowance as set forth in sections
11-3D-8B through 11-3D-8H.
b. Any canopy sign shall not extend above the top of the canopy structure.
c. Canopy signs may benon-illuminated or may have indirect or internal illumination.
Direct and neon tube illumination are prohibited.
d. A permit is required for any canopy sign.
11. Changeable copy sign proposed as building signs, when allowed by this article, shall meet
the following standards:
a. All changeable copy building signs shall count as part of the building sign allowance as
set forth in sections I 1-3D-8B through 11-3D-8H.
b. Changeable copy building signs are allowed for a maximum of thirty percent (30%) of
the proposed sign background area.
b. A permit is required for any changeable copy building sign.
12. Changeable copy signs proposed as freestanding signs, when allowed by this article, shall
meet the following standards:
a. Changeable copy freestanding signs are allowed for a maximum of thirty percent (30%)
of the proposed sign background area.
b. All changeable copy freestanding signs shall meet the setback standards in section 11-
3D-SA3.
c. A permit is required for any changeable copy freestanding sign.
13. Directional signs, when allowed by this article, shall meet the following standards:
a. Directional signs shall only be allowed where there is automobile movement through a
site that has adrive-through establishment.
b. Directional signs may benon-illuminated or have internal illumination. Direct, indirect,
and neon tube illumination are prohibited
c. All directional signs shall meet the setback standards in section 11-3D-8A3.
d The maximum background area of any directional sign shall not exceed four (4) square
feet. Any directional sign may be single- or double-sided.
e. The text on any directional sign shall not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the
proposed background area.
f. The maximum height of any directional sign shall not exceed four feet (4').
g. A permit is required for any directional sign.
14. Freestanding signs, when allowed by this article, shall meet the following standazds:
a. Freestanding signs may be non-illuminated or may have indirect or internal illumination.
Neon tube and direct illumination are prohibited.
b. All freestanding signs shall meet the setback standards in section 11-3D-8A3.
c. All freestanding signs shall be set entirely within a landscaped area having at least the
same square footage as the background area of the sign. The landscaped area shall
include plants, ground cover, and materials that contribute to an esthetic appearance and
maintain clear vision for pedestrians and vehicles. The required landscaping area may be
integrated with adjacent landscaping buffers, parking areas, or the vegetation surrounding
an adjacent structure.
d. A permit is required for any freestanding sign.
e. No sign permit for a freestanding sign shall be issued for any property and/or business
without an existing structure or valid building permit for an allowed use within the
applicable district. Freestanding business identification signs are prohibited on vacant
property.
f. Properties within six hundred and sixty feet (660') of the Interstate 84 freeway right-of-
way and properties adjoining the Interstate 84 interchanges, as depicted on Figures 1
and/or 2 of this section aze subject to the following standazds:
i. Such freestanding signs shall be in lieu of, and not in additional to, signs which
may be permitted by the district provisions set forth in sections I 1-3D-8B through
11-3D-8H.
ii. Freestanding signs within six hundred and sixty feet (660') of the Interstate 84
freeway right-of--way are prohibited in residential districts.
iii. The maximum background azea of any sign shall not exceed one hundred and fifty
(150) square feet.
iv. The maximum height of any sign shall not exceed forty feet (40').
v. Properties exceeding seven hundred and fifty feet (750') of lineal freeway frontage
maybe allowed an additional height allowance and background area allowance.
Such sign shall not exceed fifty feet (50') in height nor shall such sign exceed three
hundred (300) square feet of background azea. Only one (1) such sign shall be
allowed per seven hundred fifty feet (750') of lineal freeway frontage.
15. Hanging signs, when allowed by this article, shall meet the following standazds:
a. All hanging signs shall count as part of the building sign allowance as set forth in
sections 11-3D-8B through 11-3D-8H.
b. Hanging signs may benon-illuminated or may have indirect, internal, or neon tube
illumination. Direct illumination is prohibited.
c. The length of hanging signs shall not to exceed fifty percent (50%) of the canopy width.
d. Any hanging sign under a canopy shall have a minimum vertical clearance of s~tees
thirteen and one-half feet (~63 13.5') from any driving surface.
e. Any hanging sign under an awning shall have a minimum vertical clearance of eight feet
(8') from any sidewalk, walkway, and/or pathway.
f. Only one (1) hanging sign shall be allowed per business entn;nce.
g. A permit is required for any hanging sign.
16. Portable signs, when allowed by this article, shall meet the following standards:
a. Any portable sign shall count as part of the overall freestanding sign allowance as set
forth in sections 11-3D-8B through 11-3D-8H.
b. The following uses shall qualify for any portable sign: retail, restaurants, drinking
establishments, and personal services.
c. Placement of any portable sign shall meet the following standards:
i. The placement of any portable sign shall be limited to the portion of the sidewalk
that is located directly in front of the business to applying for the sign permit and
shall not be placed in front of another business.
ii. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to comply with the American
Disabilities Act (ADA) standards for pedestrian walkways and clearance for
handicap accessible parking stalls.
d. A maximum of one (1) portable sign is allowed per enhance with no more than one (1)
portable sign per street frontage.
e. The maximum background area of any portable sign shall not exceed eight (8) square
feet. Any portable sign maybe single or double sided.
f. Portable signs shall be constructed of stable and durable materials that will hold up under
adverse weather conditions.
g. A permit is required for any portable sign.
17. Projecting signs, when allowed by this article, shall meet the following standards:
a. All projecting signs shall count as part of the building sign allowance as set forth in
sections 11-3D-8B through 11-3D-8H.
b. Projecting signs may be non-illuminated or may have indirect, internal, or neon tube
illumination, except illumination shall be prohibited where projecting signs are attached
and/or affixed to a second story where residential uses are located within fifty feet (50')
of such sign. Direct illumination is prohibited.
c. The projecting sign shall project no more than four feet (4') from the building.
d. The projecting sign shall be pinned away from the building at least six inches (6").
e. The projecting sign shall have a minimum clearance of eight feet (8') from grade.
f. The projecting sign shall project from the building at an angle of ninety (90) degrees.
Angulaz projection from the corner of a structure is prohibited.
g. The projecting sign shall not extend vertically above the lowest of the following: the
roofline or eighteen feet (18').
h. Only one (1) projecting sign shall be allowed per business.
i. A permit is required for any projecting sign.
18. Wall signs, when allowed by this article, shall meet the following standards:
a. All wall signs shall count as part of the building sign allowance as set forth in s~tions
11-3D-8B through I1-3D-8H.
b. Wall signs for a tenant shall be located over the main public entrance for such tenant.
Wall signs for a tenant shall be prohibited over the main public entrance of another
tenant.
c. No wall sign shall exceed the height of the wall face.
d. Wall signs may benon-illuminated or may have indirect, internal, or neon tube
illumination. Direct illumination is prohibited.
e. Neon tube illumination wall signs shall be limited to three (3) square feet in size, or shall
be contained within pan channel letters.
f. A permit is required for any wall sign.
19. Window Signs, when allowed by this article, shall meet the following standards:
a. All window signs shall count as part of the building sign allowance as set forth in
sections 11-3D-8B through 11-3D-8H.
b. Window signs shall not exceed more than one (1) square feet per four (4) squaze feet of
window azea.
c. Window signs may benon-illuminated or may have indirect, internal, or neon tube
illumination. Direct illumination is prohibited.
B. In addition to the general standards for business identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standazds shall apply to business identification signs for residential districts (R-2, R-4, R-
8, R-I5, R-40, and TN-R):
1. In addition to the general standazds for business identification signs set forth in this section,
the following standazds shall apply to business identification signs for residential districts for
dwelling and accessory uses (R-2, R-4, R-8, R-15, R-40, and TN-R):
a. The maximum allowed background area for any residential sign shall not exceed six (6)
square feet.
b. A maximum of one (1) residential sign is allowed per property.
c. All residential signs shall benon-illuminated.
d. A permit is not required.
e. Freestanding and/or building signs shall be allowed. All other signs shall be prohibited.
C. In addition to the general standards for business identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standazds shall apply to business identification signs for multi-family developments and
allowed non-residential uses (R-2, R-4, R-8, R-15, R-40, and TN-R), excluding accessory uses:
Building signs are allowed and shall meet the following standards:
a. Allowance: The combined area of all building signs on a single facade shall not exceed
ten percent (10%) of the area of such facade.
b. Awning signs aze allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A8.
c. Canopy signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A10.
d. Changeable copy signs proposed as building signs aze allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A11 all changeable copy building signs shall meet
the following standazds:
i. Any changeable copy building sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: all displays, including, but not limited to, graphics, letters,
numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of one (1)
hour, except that any text messages that are longer than the display area and do not
contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy signs proposed as a building sign shall be allowed
per facade azea.
e. Hanging signs aze allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A15.
f. Wall signs aze allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A18.
g. Window signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A19.
2. Banners are prohibited, except as allowed by 11-3D-9.
3. Directional signs are prohibited.
4. Freestanding signs aze allowed. In addition to the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A14,
all freestanding signs shall meet the following standards:
a. The maximum background azea of any freestanding sign shall not exceed fifty (50)
square feet.
b. The maximum height of any freestanding sign shall not exceed eight feet (8').
c. A maximum of one (1) freestanding sign is allowed per property.
d. Changeable copy signs proposed as freestanding signs are allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A12, all changeable copy freestanding signs shall
meet the following standazds:
i. Any changeable copy freestanding sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: all displays, including, but not limited to, graphics, letters,
numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of one (1)
hour, except that any text messages that are longer than the display area and do not
contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy sign proposed as a freestanding sign shall be
allowed per property.
5. Portable signs aze prohibited.
6. Projecting signs aze prohibited.
7. All other signs shall be prohibited, except as allowed by 11-3D-9.
D. In addition to the general standazds for business identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standards shall apply to business identification signs for the limited office district (L-O):
1. Building signs are allowed and shall meet the following standazds:
a. Allowance: The combined azea of all building signs on a single facade shall not exceed
ten percent (10%) of the area of such facade.
b. Awning signs are allowed and shall meet the standards as set forth in section 11-3D-8A8.
c. Canopy signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A10.
d. Changeable copy signs proposed as building signs aze allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A11 all changeable copy building signs shall meet
the following standazds:
i. Any changeable copy building sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: all displays, including, but not limited to, graphics, letters,
numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of eight
(8) seconds, except that any text messages that are longer than the display area and
do not contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy signs proposed as a building sign shall be allowed
per facade area.
e. Hanging signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A15.
f. Wall signs are allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A18:
g. Window signs aze allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A19.
2. Banners are allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A9.
3. Directional signs aze allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section I 1-3D-8A13.
4. Freestanding signs aze allowed. In addition to the standazds set forth in section 1 I-3D-8A14,
all freestanding signs shall meet the following standards:
a. The maximum background area of any freestanding sign shall not exceed fifty (50)
square feet.
b. The maximum height of any freestanding sign shall not exceed eight feet (8').
c. A maximum of one (1) freestanding sign is allowed per one hundred and fifty feet (150')
of lineal street frontage. Properties with less than one hundred and fifty feet (150') of
lineal street frontage shall be allowed a maximum of one (1) such sign per property.
d. Properties exceeding seven hundred and fifty feet (750') of lineal street frontage maybe
allowed an additional sign height and background area allowance. Such signs shall not
exceed fifteen feet (15') in overall height and eighty (80) square feet of background azea.
Only one (1) such sign shall be allowed per seven hundred and fifty feet (750') of lineal
street frontage.
e. Changeable copy signs proposed as freestanding signs are allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A12, all changeable copy freestanding signs shall
meet the following standards:
i. Any changeable copy freestanding sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: all displays, including, but not limited to, graphics, letters,
numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of eight
(8) seconds, except that any text messages that are longer than the display area and
do not contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy signs proposed ads a freestanding sign shall be
allowed per property.
5. Portable signs aze prohibited
6. Projecting signs are prohibited.
7. All other signs shall be prohibited, except as allowed by 11-3D-9.
E. In addition to the general standards for business identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standards shall apply to business identification signs for neighborhood business,
community business, and mixed employment districts (C-N, C-C, and M-E):
Building signs aze allowed and shall meet the following standards:
a. Allowance: The combined azea of all building signs on a single fagade shall not exceed
ten percent (10%) of the area of such fapade.
b. Awning signs aze allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-SA9.
c. Canopy signs are allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A10.
d Changeable copy signs proposed as building signs aze allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A11, all changeable copy building signs shall meet
the following standards:
Any changeable copy building sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: all displays, including, but not limited to, graphics, letters,
numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of eight
(8) seconds, except that any text messages that are longer than the display azea and
do not contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy sign proposed as a building sign shall be allowed
per facade azea.
e. Hanging signs aze allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A15.
f. Wall signs are allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A18.
g. Window signs aze allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A19.
2. Banners are allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A9.
Directional signs aze allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section I 1-3D-8A13.
4. Freestanding signs are allowed. In addition to the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A14,
all freestanding signs shall meet the following standards:
a. The maximum background azea of any freestanding sign shall not exceed seventy (70)
squaze feet.
b. The maximum height of any fi~eestanding sign shall not exceed fifteen feet (15').
c. A maximum of one (1) freestanding sign is allowed per one hundred and fifty feet (150')
of lineal street frontage. Properties with less than one hundred and fifty feet (150') of
lineal street frontage shall be allowed a maximum of one (1) such sign per property.
d. Properties exceeding seven hundred and fifty feet (750') of lineal street frontage may be
allowed an additional sign height and background area allowance. Such signs shall not
exceed twenty feet (20') in overall height and one hundred and fifty (150) syuaze feet of
background area. Only one (1) such sign shall be allowed per seven hundred and fifty feet
(750') of lineal street frontage.
e. Changeable copy signs proposed as freestanding signs are allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A12, all changeable copy freestanding signs shall
meet the following standards:
i. Any changeable copy freestanding sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: All displays, including, but not limited to, graphics, letters,
numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of eight (8)
seconds, except that any text messages that aze longer than the display azea and do not
contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy sign proposed as a freestanding sign shall be allowed
per property.
Portable signs are prohibited.
Projecting signs are prohibited, except for signs on property within the GC zoning district
and that have an Old Town Comprehensive Plan Designation.
7. All other signs shall be prohibited, except as allowed by 11-3D-9.
F. In addition to the general standards for business identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standards shall apply to business identification signs for general retail and service
commercial and high density employment districts (C-G and H-E):
1. Building Signs are allowed and shall meet the following standards:
a. Allowance: The combined area of all building signs on a single facade shall not exceed
fifteen percent (15%) of the azea of such facade. The maximum background area of a
single wall sign may not exceed two hundred and twenty (220) square feet. The
maximum background area of two hundred and twenty (220) square feet shall not apply
to individual letters and/or pan channel letters.
b. Awning signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A8.
c. Canopy signs are allowed and shall melt the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A10.
d. Changeable copy signs proposed as building signs are allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A11 all changeable copy building signs shall meet
the following standazds:
i. Any changeable copy building sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: all displays, including, but not limited to, graphics, letters,
numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of eight
(8) seconds, except that any text messages that are longer than the display azea and
do not contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy sign proposed as a building sign shall be allowed
per facade area.
e. Hanging signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A15.
f. Wall signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A18.
g. Window signs aze allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A19.
2. Banners are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A9.
3. Directional signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A13.
4. Freestanding signs aze allowed. In addition to the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A14,
all freestanding signs shall meet the following standazds:
a. The maximum background area of any freestanding sign shall not exceed eighty (80)
square feet.
b. The maximum height of any freestanding sign shall not exceed twenty feet (20').
c. A maximum of one (1) freestanding sign is allowed per one hundred and fifty feet (150')
of lineal street frontage. Properties with less than one hundred and fifty feet (150') of
lineal street frontage shall be allowed a maximum of one (1) such sign per property.
d. Properties exceeding seven hundred and fifty feet (750') of lineal street frontage maybe
allowed an additional sign height and background area allowance. Such signs shall not
exceed thirty five feet (35') in overall height and two hundred (200) square feet of
background area. Only one (1) such sign shall be allowed per seven hundred and fifty feet
(750') of lineal street frontage.
Changeable copy signs proposed as freestanding signs aze allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A12, all changeable wpy freestanding signs shall
meet the following standazds:
Any changeable copy freestanding sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: all displays, including, but not limited to, graphics, letters,
numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of eight
(8) seconds, except that any text messages that are longer than the display area and
do not contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy sign proposed as a freestanding sign shall be
allowed per property, except properties abutting two (2) arterial streets maybe
allowed one (1) changeable copy freestanding sign along each arterial street.
Portable signs are prohibited.
Projecting signs aze prohibited
All other signs shall be prohibited, except as allowed by 11-3D-9.
G. In addition to the general standards for business identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standards shall apply to business identification signs for traditional neighborhood
districts (O-T and TN-C):
Building signs are allowed and shall meet the following standards:
a. Allowance: The combined azea of all building signs on a single facade shall not exceed
ten percent (10%) of the azea of such facade.
b. Awning signs are allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section I 1-3D-8A8.
c. Canopy signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A10.
d. Changeable copy signs proposed as building signs are allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A11, all changeable copy building signs shall meet
the following standards:
Any changeable copy building sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: all displays, including, but not limited to, graphics, letters,
numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of eight
(8) seconds, except that any text messages that are longer than the display area and
do not contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy sign proposed as a building sign shall be allowed
per facade area.
e. Hanging signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A15.
f. Projecting signs aze allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-
8A17.
g. Wall signs aze allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A18.
h. Window signs are allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section I 1-3D-8A19.
2. Banners are allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A9.
3. Directional signs are prohibited.
4. Freestanding signs aze allowed. In addition to the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A14,
all freestanding signs shall meet the following standards:
a. The maximum background azea of any freestanding sign shall not exceed fifty (50)
square feet.
b. The maximum height of any freestanding sign shall not exceed eight feet (8'), except,
where a freestanding sign is within fifteen feet (15') of a public pedestrian walkway,
sidewalk, and/or pathway or public space, the height of the sign shall be limited to six
feet (6') to maintain an appropriate human scale.
c. A maximum of one (1) freestanding sign is allowed per street frontage.
d. Changeable copy signs proposed as freestanding signs are allowed. In addition to the
standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A12, all changeable copy freestanding signs shall
meet the following standazds:
i. Any changeable copy freestanding sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: All displays, including, but not limited to, graphics,
letters, numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of
eight (8) seconds, except that any text messages that are longer than the display
area and do not contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable
manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy sign proposed as a freestanding sign shall be
allowed per property.
5. Portable signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A16.
6. All other signs shall be prohibited, except as allowed by 11-3D-9.
H. In addition to the general standards for business identification signs set forth in this section, the
following standards shall apply to business identification signs for industrial districts (I-L and I-H):
Building Signs aze allowed and shall meet the following standards:
a. Allowance: The combined azea of all building signs on a single facade shall not exceed
ten percent (10%) of the area of such facade.
b. Awning signs aze allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A8.
c. Canopy signs aze allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A10.
Changeable copy signs proposed as building signs are allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A11, all changeable copy building signs shall meet
the following standards:
i. Any changeable copy building sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: all displays, including, but not limited to, graphics, letters,
numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of eight
(8) seconds, except that any text messages that aze longer than the display area and
do not contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy sign proposed as a building sign shall be allowed
per facade area.
e. Hanging signs are allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A15.
f. Wall signs are allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A18.
g. Window signs aze allowed and shall meet the standards as set forth in section 11-3D-
8A19.
2. Banners aze allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A9.
Directional signs aze allowed and shall meet the standazds set forth in section 11-3D-8A3.
4. Freestanding signs aze allowed. In addition to the standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A14,
all freestanding signs shall meet the following standazds:
a. The maximum background azea of any freestanding sign shall not exceed seventy (70)
square feet.
b. The maximum height of any freestanding sign shall not exceed fifteen feet (15').
c. A maximum of one (1) freestanding sign is allowed per street frontage.
d. Properties exceeding seven hundred and fifty feet (750') of lineal street frontage maybe
allowed an additional sign height and background azea allowance. Such signs shall not
exceed twenty-five feet (25') in overall height and one hundred and fifty (150) squaze
feet of background azea. Only one (1) such sign shall be allowed per seven hundred and
fifty feet (750') of lineal street frontage.
e. Changeable copy signs proposed as freestanding signs aze allowed. In addition to the
standards set forth in section 11-3D-8A11, all changeable copy freestanding signs shall
meet the following standards:
i. Any changeable copy freestanding sign visible from a public street shall be
programmed as follows: All displays, including, but not limited to, graphics,
letters, numbers, color and/or brightness shall remain unchanged for a minimum of
eight (8) seconds, except that any text messages that are longer than the display
azea and do not contain any graphics may scroll in a consistent and predictable
manner.
ii. Only one (1) changeable copy sign proposed as a freestanding sign shall be
allowed per property.
f. Directional signs are allowed and shall meet the standards set forth in section I I-3D-
8A13.
5. Portable signs are prohibited.
6. Projecting signs are prohibited.
7. All other signs shall be prohibited, except as allowed by 11-3D-9.
11-3D-9: ADDITIONAL ALLOWANCE FOR SIGNS OF A LIMITED DURATION: The following
standards shall apply to business identification signs allowed for a limited duration for all allowed non-
residential uses:
A. Purpose: The purpose of this section is to allow additional business identification signs for a
limited duration.
B. Applicability: This section shall apply to all allowed non-residential uses in all districts.
C. Exemptions: The provisions of the section shall not apply to handheld signs. Handheld signs are
allowed and do not require a permit.
D. Process:
1. The applicant shall obtain a limited duration sign permit through the Planning Department
for fifteen (15), thirty (30), sixty (60), or ninety (90) day time periods. It shall be unlawful
for any person to erect or display on any property a limited duration sign without a valid and
current limited duration sign permit.
2. In no instance shall a limited duration sign requiring a permit be displayed for more than one
hundred and twenty (120) days per calendar year per business.
3. The applicant shall obtain a limited duration sign permit for every new and/or renewed
limited duration sign to be displayed.
4. Removal of any limited duration sign for any period of time shall not extend the expiration
date for such limited duration sign permit.
5. The limited duration sign permit shall be attached to the approved sign so that it is visible
from the nearest public right of way.
6. Any person displaying or erecting limited duration signs on any property shall obtain the
written consent of the property owner and file that consent with the planning department
prior to issuance of a permit.
E. General Standards for Limited Duration Signs: The following standards shall apply to all Limited
Duration Signs in all districts:
1. All limited duration signs shall be securely fastened to the ground or to a permanent
structure. Signs shall be erected in a manner that does not create a potential hazard of any
kind. The attachment line for inflatable signs shall not be within ten feet (] 0') of the nearest
overhead power line.
2. No limited duration sign shall be illuminated. Illumination is prohibited.
3. No limited duration sign shall be located within a public right of way.
4. All limited duration signs shall be weatherproofed and kept in a state of good appearance,
safety, and repair. Any damaged or potentially hazardous sign shall be repaired or removed
immediately.
5. A maximum of one such sign shall be displayed per business at any one time.
6. Limited duration signs shall maintain a minimum fifty feet (50') of spacing from any and all
other approved freestanding and limited duration signs.
7. The background area for limited duration banner signs located on an exterior of a building
shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet per business, except that businesses having over
one hundred thousand (100,000) square feet of gross floor area shall be allowed sixty-four
(64) square feet for such sign.
8. The background area for freestanding limited duration signs, shall not exceed twenty (20)
square feet.
9. Balloons and other inflated devices that are limited duration signs shall be no greater than
one and one-half (11/2) times the maximum building height within the district.
10. Electrical components shall be prohibited as part of a limited duration sign, except electrical
pumps may be allowed for balloons and other inflated devices.
11-3D-10: STANDARDS FOR VEHICLE SIGNS: The following standards shall apply to vehicle signs
used for business identification:
A. Purpose: The purpose of this section is to allow vehicle signs used for business identification of
fleet vehicles.
B. Applicability: This section shall apply to all vehicle signs used for business identification, except
that the provisions of the section shall not apply to interior vehicle signs not exceeding two (2)
square feet in overall size.
C. Process: Vehicle signs that meet the standards set forth in this article are allowed and do not require
a permit. Any vehicle signs that do not meet the standards set forth in this article may be
considered for approval as a business identification sign or limited duration sign.
D. Standards for Vehicle Signs: The following standards shall apply to all vehicle signs used for
business identification:
1. Any vehicle sign shall not project or extend beyond two (2) inches from the original
manufactured body proper of the vehicle.
2. Any vehicle sign shall be magnetic decals, vinyl stickers, vinyl wraps, and/or painted
directly to the body of the original vehicle.
3. The vehicle to which the sign is attached shall be in proper working order and shall bear a
current license plate.
4. The vehicle to which the sign is affixed shall be used in the conduct of the business and shall
not be permanently parked on a public street or street right-of--way.
The pazlcing of any idle vehicle or trailer on any property for more than seventy two (72)
hours, any part of which is loczted within thirty five feet (35') of a public right of way, and
which has affixed to it a vehicle sign is prohibited. This prohibition is not intended to apply
to a fleet vehicle(s) which leaves the premises during the hours of the business operation.
Figure 1
I-84/Meridian Road Interchange
N
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s
2000 0 2000 40D0 t~00 Feet
Figure 2
I-84/Eagle Road Interchange
2000 0 2000 4000 8000 ~ Feet
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8. EXHIBITS
A. Agency Comments
B. Required Findings from the Unified Development Code
Exhibit A. Agency Comments
On October 29, 2009 a joint agency and department meeting was held with service providers in
the area. The agencies and departments present include: Meridian Fire Department, Meridian
Police Department, and Meridian Public Works Department. The following the comments were
received.•
1. Fire Department
1.1 The Fire Department has no concerns related to this application.
2. Police Department
2.1 The Police Department has no concerns related to this application.
3. Public Works Department
3.1 The Public Works Department has no concerns related to this application.
Exhibit B. Required Findings from Unified Development Code
1. Unified Development Code Text Amendments:
Upon recommendation from the Commission, the Council shall make a full
investigation and shall, at the public hearing, review the application. In order to
grant a text amendment to the Unitied Development Code, the Council shall make
the following findings:
1. The text amendment complies with the applicable provisions of the
comprehensive plan;
The Commission finds that the proposed zoning ordinance amendment complies
with the applicable (limited) provisions of the Comprehensive Plan. Please see
Comprehensive Plan Policies and Goals, Section 6, of the Staff Report for more
information.
2. The text amendment shall not be materially detrimental to the public health,
safety, and welfare; and
The Commission finds that the proposed text amendment will not be detrimental
to the public health, safety or welfare. Planning staff has worked with the sign
company representatives, Legal staff, Building staff and Code Enforcement staff
to ensure that the proposed text amendments provide for the safety of our
residents when installing and maintaining signs within the City.
3. The text amendment shall not result in an adverse impact upon the delivery
of services by any political subdivision providing public services within the
City including, but not limited to, school districts.
The Commission finds that the proposed text amendment does not propose any
significant changes to how public utilities and services are provide to
developments. All City departments, public agencies and service providers that
currently review applications will continue to do so. Please rely on any written or
oral testimony provided by any public service provider(s) when making this
finding.