Staff Handout for City CouncilItem #8:E: Sign Code Text Amendment (ZOA-09.004) D~~ Q ~ 2~~~
Location: City wide. CITY ~F~~ ,,;~
Applications: ~iT1P~L,ERKS ®FF'I~~
- Zoning Ordinance Amendment to amend the text of the UDC. The sections proposed for
amendment include signs, definitions, measurements, nonconforming, outdoor lighting,
altemative compliance, and conditional uses.
Background: The purpose of the amendment is to create a progressive and concise code, which
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.
Major changes include:
The restructure of the sign code section to be consistent with the rest of the UDC.
Changes to associated sections.
Portable Signs for business identification. '
Limited Duration Signs -currently defined as Temporary Signs.
Changeable Copy Signs -currently defined as readerboard signs.
Vehicle Signs.
Commission Recommendation: Approval at their November 19, 2009 public hearing.
Summary of Commission Public Hearing;
i. In favor: Virginia Cunningham, Kathy Reitz
ii. In opposition: None
iii. Commenting: None
iv. Written testimon~ginia Cunningham, Lytle Signs
Key Issue(s) of Discussion by Commission:
i. The minimum vertical clearance of any hanainy sign under a canopy from
sixteen and one-half feet (16.5') to thirteen and one-half feet (13.5'
ii. To allow projecting signs in all districts.
Key Commission Change(s) to Staff Recommendation:
i. Per recommendation of Staff. the Commission recommended approval to
change the minimum vertical clearance of any hanaingsign under a canopy
from sixteen and one-half feet (16.5') to thirteen and one-half feet (13.5'
Staff has made this chanced in the recommendation (see 11-3D-8A15~
ii. The Commission recommended allowingprojecting signs in all districts with
an approved altemative compliance application_ .Staff has mads this change
in the recommendation (see table 11-5B-5~
Outstanding Issue( for City Council:
i. The draft sign code prohibits any benches with commercially available
space for advertising. However, Staff understands the need for bus
benches located at designated bus stops. Therefore, Staff will collaborate
with agencies to develop an agreement for such benches and amended
the UDC accordingly.
Following the Commission Meeting, Staff became aware of a minor issue
in the proposed nonconforming section. Staff will bring a UDC amendment
back shortly, but Staff is not recommending holding the application.
Written Testimony since P&Z Meeting: None
Notes: