576 Sign Code 1996CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF YELM, WASHINGTON, RELATING TO adoption
to regulating and controlling the design, construction, location,
use, electrification and maintenance of all signs and sign
structures within the City of Yelm; providing for the issuance of
sign permits and collection of fees therefore; providing for
inspections and classifications of signs; providing penalties for
violations; and repealing City of Yelm Ordinance No. 324 of the
Yelm Municipal Code.
WHEREAS, the Yelm Planning Commission and the City Council held a
~ duly-noticed public hearing regarding such sign code.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF YELM DOES HEREBY
ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. ADOPTION BY REFERENCE. The Sign Code is hereby
adopted by reference as set forth in full.
Section 2. SEVERABILITY. If any provisions of this ordinance
or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid,
the remainder of the ordinance or the application of the provisions
to other persons or circumstances is not affected.
Section 3. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall take effect
five days after its passage, approval and publication.
s" I..~~
Kathryn M. Wolf, Mayor
ATTEST:
~~tG~ ~,
A n s P. Bennick, City Clerk
PASSED AND APPROVED: April 10, 1996
PUBLISH: Nisqually Valley News, April 18, 1996
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
YELM
ON-PREMISES/OFF-PREMISES SIGN REGULATIONS
Sections:
15.24.010 Intent
15.24.020 Definitions and Abbreviations
15.24.030 Permits and Fees Required
15.24.040 Permit--Requirements
15.24.050 Permit--Applications
15.24.060 Fee Schedule
15.24.070 Exemptions
15.24.080 Prohibited Signs
15.24.090 Temporary Signs
15.24.100 Structural Requirements
15.24.110 Electrical Requirements
15.24.120 Illumination
15.24.130 Maintenance
15.24.140 Landscaping for Free-Standing Signs
15.24.150 Inspection
15.24.160 More Restrictive Provision to Apply
15.24.170 Buildings Facing on Two Parallel Streets
15.24.180 Signing on Awnings and Marquees
15.24.190 District Regulations
15.24.200 Variances
15.24.210 Legal Nonconforming Signs
15.24.220 Termination of Signs
15.24.230 Administrator-Appointment-Powers and Duties
Generally
15.24.240 Administrator-Inspection Authority
15.24.250 Conflict and Severability
15.24.260 Violation-Penalty
15.24.270 Removal of Unlawful Signs
15.24.280 Sign Area - Square Footage Maximums
15.24.290 Grand Opening/Special Event Sign Area Maximums
15.24.010 Intent. The intent of this chapter is to provide minimum
standards to safeguard life, health, property and public welfare by
regulating the number, size, design, quality of materials,
construction, location, electrification and maintenance of all
signs and sign structures; to preserve and improve the appearance
of the City as a place in which to live and as an attraction to
non-residents who come to visit or trade; to encourage sound
signing practices as an aid to business and for public information
but to prevent excessive and confusing signing displays. (Ord. 588
§2 (part) , 1980)
15.24.020 Definitions and Abbreviations. For the purpose of this
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
chapter, definitions as defined in Chapter 16.06 and certain
abbreviations, terms, phrases, words and their derivatives shall be
construed as specified in this section.
A. "Abandoned sign" means any sign which is located on property
which becomes vacant and unoccupied for a period of six (6)
months or more, or any sign which relates to any occupant or
business unrelated to the present occupant or their business,
or any sign which pertains to a time, event or purpose which
no longer applies.
B. "Advertising vehicles" means any vehicle or trailer on a
public right-of-way which has attached thereto, or located
thereon, any sign or advertising device for the basic purpose
of providing advertisement of products or directing people to
a business or activity located on the same or nearby property
or any other premises. This provision is not to be construed
as prohibiting the identification of a firm or its principal
products on a vehicle operating during normal course of
business. Franchised buses or taxis are exempt from this
chapter.
C. "Animated sign" means any sign which includes action or motion
or the optical illusion of action or motion, or color changes
of all or any part of the sign facing, requiring electrical
energy, or set in motion by movement of the atmosphere.
Excluded from the definition are public service signs,
changing message center signs, searchlights and flags.
D. "Awning" is a shelter supported entirely from the exterior
wall of a building.
E. "Bulletin board (reader board)" means a sign so designed that
the message may be changed by removal or addition of specially
designed letters that attach to the face of the sign.
F. "Changing message center signs" means an electronically or
electrically controlled sign where different automatic
changing messages are shown on the same lamp bank.
G. "Construction sign" means any sign used to identify the
architects, engineers, contractors or other individuals or
firms involved with the construction of a building and
announce the character of the building or the purpose for
which the building is intended.
H. "Flashing sign" means any sign which contains an intermittent
or flashing light source or which includes the illusion of
intermittent or flashing light by means of animation or an
externally mounted intermittent light source. Excluded from
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
the definition are public service and changing message center
signs.
I. "Free-standing sign" means any sign which is supported by one
or more uprights, poles or braces in or upon the ground.
J. "Garage sale signs" (i.e., yard sales, moving sales, patio
sales) means temporary signs used to announce a sale of used
items.
K. "Grade" means the elevation or level of the street closest to
the sign to which reference is made, as measured at the
street's centerline, or the relative ground level in the
immediate vicinity of the sign.
L. "Grand opening displays" means temporary signs, posters,
banners, strings of lights, clusters of flags, balloons and
searchlights used to announce the opening of a completely new
enterprise or the opening of an enterprise under new
management.
M. "Height or height of sign" means the vertical distance from
the "grade" to the highest point of a sign or any vertical
projection thereof, including its supporting columns.
N. "Landscaping" means any material used as a decorative feature,
such as shrubbery or planting materials, planter boxes,
concrete bases, brick work, decorative framing or pole covers,
used in conjunction with a sign which expresses the theme of
the sign and related structure but does not contain
advertising copy.
O. "Legal nonconforming sign" means a sign which (a) on the
effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter was
lawfully maintained and had been lawfully erected in
accordance with the provisions of any prior sign ordinance or
code but which sign does not conform to the applicable
limitations established by this chapter; or (b) on or after
the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter
was lawfully maintained and erected in accordance with the
provisions of this chapter but which sign, by reason of
amendment of the ordinance codified in this chapter after the
effective date thereof, does not conform to the applicable
limitations established by the amendment of this chapter.
P. "Mansard roof" means a sloped roof or roof-like facade
architecturally able to be treated as a building wall.
Q. "Marquee" is a permanent roofed structure attached to and
supported by the building and projecting over public property.
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
R. "Marquee Sign" means any sign attached to or supported by a
marquee.
S. "Monument sign" is a ground mounted sign which is higher than
3 feet above the average ground elevation and which is
attached to the ground by means of a wide base of solid
appearance.
T. "Multiple building complex" means a group of structures
housing at least one retail business, office, commercial
venture or independent or separate part of a business which
shares the access and/or parking facilities.
U. "Multiple occupancy building" means a single structure housing
more than one retail business, office or commercial venture.
V. "Political sign" means a sign advertising a candidate or
candidates for public elective office, or a political party,
or signs urging a particular vote on a public issue decided by
ballot.
W. "Portable (mobile) sign" means a sign made of any material,
which by is design, is readily movable and is equipped with
wheels, casters or rollers or which is not permanently affixed
to the ground, structure or building. (Also includes
sidewalks or sandwich board signs, and signs mounted upon the
tops of vehicles.)
X. "Projecting sign" means a sign other than a flat wall sign,
which is attached to and projects from a building wall or
other structure not specifically designed to support the sign.
Y. "Public service signs" means an electronically or electrically
controlled public service sign or portion of a larger sign
which conveys only information such as time, date,
temperature, atmospheric condition or general news information
where different alternating copy changes are shown on the same
lamp bank matrix.
Z. "Real estate or property for sale, rental, or lease sign"
means any sign pertaining to the sale, lease or rental of land
or buildings.
AA. "Roof sign" means any sign erected upon, against or directly
above a roof or on top of or above the parapet of a building.
BB. "Searchlight" means an apparatus containing an electric light
and reflector on a swivel for projecting a far-reaching beam
in any desired direction.
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
CC. "Shopping Center" - see "T" above.
DD. "Sign" means any commercial communication device, structure or
fixture that is extended to aid an establishment in
identification and to advertise and/or promote a business,
service, activity or interest. For the purpose of this
chapter, a sign shall not be considered to be building or
structural design, but shall be restricted solely to graphics,
symbols or written copy that is meant to be used in the
aforementioned way.
EE. "Sign area" means the entire area of a sign on which copy is
to be placed. Only one side of a double-faced sign shall be
included. The area of painted signs, individual letter signs,
and other indirectly illuminated signs, shall be calculated on
the basis of the smallest rectangle, circle or spherical
figure that will enclose the entire copy area of the sign.
Any such calculation shall include the areas between letters
and lines, as well as the areas of any devices, illuminated or
non-illuminated, which are intended to attract attention.
FF. "Special event signs" means temporary signs used to announce
a circus, a carnival, festivals, business activities or other
similar events.
GG. "Temporary sign" means any sign, banner, pennant, valance,
flags (not intended to include flags of any nation, state,
city, or other governmental agency, or nonprofit
organization), searchlights, balloons or other air or gas
filled figures or advertising display constructed of cloth,
canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard or other light
materials, with or without frame, intended to be displayed for
a limited period of time only. Different types of temporary
signs included in this category are construction, grand
opening displays, real estate, special event, political and
garage sale.
HH. "Wall" means any member or group of members, which defines the
exterior boundaries of a building and which as a slope of 60
degrees or greater with the horizontal plane. The height of
a wall shall be measured as the two-dimensional height from
the average finish grade of the particular architectural
building elevation adjacent to the wall to the finish roof
plane.
II. "Wall sign" means any sign attached to or painted directly on
the wall or erected against the wall of a building being
parallel or approximately parallel to said wall; and does not
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
exceed a distance of fifteen (15) inches from said wall.
(Ord. 588 ~2 (part), 1980, Ord. 817 ~2(part), 1987, and Ord.
942 ~1(part), 1992.)
15.24.030 Permits and Fees Required. No sign permit shall be
issued unless the sign installer has a valid Washington State
contractors license; provided, however, an applicant may obtain a
permit to install a sign on their own property without a state
license. (Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980 and Ord. 942 ~1 (part), 1992.)
15.24.040 Permit--Requirements. No sign governed by the provisions
of this Code shall be erected, structurally altered or relocated by
any person, firm or corporation after the da*e of adoption of this
Code without a permit issued by the City (with the exceptions as
noted.) No new permit is required for signs which have permits and
which conform with the requirements of this Code on the date of its
adoption unless and until the sign is structurally altered or
relocated. (Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980.)
15.24.050 Permit--Applications. Applications for permits shall
contain the name and address of the owner and user of the sign, the
name and address of the owner of the property on which the sign is
to be located, the location of the sign structure, drawings or
photographs showing the design and dimensions of the sign and
details of its proposed placement and such other pertinent
information as the Administrator of this Code may require, to
insure compliance with this Code and other applicable ordinances.
Permit applications shall be available for inspection by the public
upon request. Upon completion of a permit application, the
application shall be acted on within two (2) weeks unless there is
a requirement for further time under SEPA. (Ord. 588 §2 (part) ,
1980.)
15.24.060 Fee Schedule. Fees for sign permits shall be established
by the Building Official as determined by the Uniform Building Code
(adopted edition.) (Ord. 588 ~2(part), 1980 and Ord. 666 §37,
1982.)
15.24.070 Exemptions. The following signs do not require a sign
permit (unless noted,) nor shall the area and number of such signs
be included in the area and number of signs permitted for any site
or use. This shall not be construed as relieving the owner of the
sign from the responsibility of its erection and maintenance and
its compliance with the provisions of this chapter or any other law
or ordinance:
A. The flag, emblem or insignia of a nation or other governmental
unit or nonprofit organization subject to the guidelines
concerning their use set forth by the government or
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
organization which they represent. Flag poles require a sign
permit for structural review.
B. Memorial signs or tablets, names of building, stained glass
windows and dates of erection when cut into the surface or the
facade of the building or when projecting not more than two
(2) inches.
C. Traffic or other municipal signs, signs required by law or
emergency, railroad crossing signs, legal notices; and any
temporary, or non-advertising signs as may be authorized by
the City Council.
D. Signs of public utility companies indicating danger or which
serve as an aid to public safety or which show the location of
underground facilities or of public telephones.
E. Flush-mounted wall signs, used to identify the name and
address of the occupant for each dwelling provided the sign
does not exceed two (2) square feet in sign area.
F. Signs located in the interior of any building or within an
enclosed lobby or court of any building or group of buildings,
which signs are designed and located to be viewed exclusively
by patrons of such use or uses.
G. One bulletin board not over fifty (50) square feet in sign
area for each public, charitable or religious institution
where the same are located on the premises of said
institution. (A sign permit is required.)
H. Decorations: Such signs in the nature of decoration, clearly
incidental and customary and commonly associated with any
national, local or religious holiday.
I. Painting, repainting or cleaning of an advertising structure
or the changing of the advertising copy of message thereon
shall not be considered an erection or alternation which
requires a sign permit unless a structural change is made.
J. Sculptures, fountains, mosaics and design features which do
not incorporate advertising or identification.
K. "No trespassing," "no dumping," "no parking," "private," signs
identifying essential public needs (i.e., restrooms, entrance,
exit, telephone, etc.) and other informational warning signs,
which shall not exceed two (2) square feet in surface area.
L. Directional signs erected by the City on public streets
directing the public to emergency, public, civic or nonprofit
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
facilities. Such sign may have an arrow and the type of
service available. Such sign shall not exceed two square
feet. (Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980 and Ord. 942 §1(part), 1992.)
15.24.080 Prohibited Signs. Prohibited signs are subject to
removal (except legal nonconforming signs as defined by this
chapter) by the City at the owner's or user's expense. The
following signs or displays are prohibited:
A. Roof signs.
B. Animated signs.
C. Flashing signs.
D. Portable signs, except as provided under temporary signs.
E. Advertising vehicles.
F. Signs which purport to be, or are, an imitation of, or
resemble an official traffic sign or signal, or which bear the
words "stop," "caution," "danger," "warning," or similar
words.
G. Signs which, by reason of their size, location, movement,
content, coloring or manner of illumination may be confused
with or construed as a traffic control sign, signal or device,
or the light of an emergency or radio equipment vehicle; or
which obstruct the visibility of traffic or street sign or
signal device.
H. Signs which (are located upon) projecting over public streets,
sidewalks, or rights-of-way, except as provided for awnings
and marquees in Section 15.24.280.
I. Signs attached to utility poles.
J. Off-premises signs.
K. Strings of banners, pennants, and other graffiti-like
material. (Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980, Ord. 817 §2 (part), 1987,
and Ord. 942 §1 (part), 1992.)
15.24.090 Temporary Signs. The following signs are classified as
temporary (non-permanent.) Temporary signs are permitted subject
to the applicable limitations:
A. Construction Signs. A sign permit is required. Such signs
may be displayed only after a building permit is obtained and
during the period of construction on the construction site.
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
Only one such sign is permitted per construction project for
each public street upon which the project fronts. The
applicable limits are as follows:
1. In all zones other than single-family residential zones,
no construction sign shall exceed thirty-two (32) square
feet in sign area (printed copy on one side only) or ten
(10) feet in height, nor be located closer than ten (10)
feet from the property line or closer than thirty (30)
feet from the property line from the abutting owner.
2. In single-family residential zones, no construction sign
shall exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in sign area
(printed copy on one side only) or ten (10) feet in
height, nor be located closer than ten (10) feet from the
property line of the abutting owner.
B. Grand Opening Displays. A no-fee sign permit is required.
Such temporary signs, posters, banners strings of lights,
clusters of flags, balloons or other aid or gas filled
figures, and searchlights are permitted on premise only and
for a period of fourteen (14) days only to announce the
opening of a completely new enterprise or the opening of an
enterprise under new management. Square footage of allowable
temporary sign area is provided in Section 15.24.290.
Sandwich Board signs are permitted provided each side does not
exceed 2~' x 4'. All such materials shall be removed
immediately upon the expiration of fourteen (14) days. Search
lights may be permitted by any business or enterprise provided
the beam of light does not flash against any building or does
not sweep an arc of more than forty five degrees (450) from
vertical.
C. Special Event Signs-for Businesses and Organizations. A no-
fee sign permit is required. Such temporary signs may be
placed on premise only and shall not be larger than twenty
(20) square feet. Sandwich Board signs are permitted provided
each side does not exceed 2;~' x 4'. Said signs shall not be
posted or attached to telephone poles, power poles or other
public utility facilities. Such signs may be permitted on
premise only and for a period of fourteen (14) days only.
Special events are limited to four (4) per year. The event
committee for which the sign is displayed shall be responsible
for its removal and subject to the penalties as provided in
this Code. Search lights may be permitted by any business or
enterprise provided the beam of light does not flash against
any building or does not sweep an area of more than forty five
degrees (450) from vertical.
D. Real Estate Signs. No sign permit is required. All exterior
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
real estate signs must be of wood or plastic or other durable
material. The permitted signs, with applicable limits, are as
follows:
1. Residential "for sale", "open house", and "sold" signs:
Such signs shall be limited to one sign per street
frontage not to exceed five (5) square feet in sign area,
placed wholly on the property for sale, and not to exceed
a height of seven (7) feet.
2. Residential directional "open house" signs shall be
permitted during daylight hours on weekends only and must
be placed out of the way of pedestrian traffic.
3. Undeveloped commercial and industrial property "for sale
or rent" signs : One sign per street frontage advertising
undeveloped commercial and industrial property for sale
or rent. The sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32)
square feet in sign area and ten (10) feet to top of
sign.
4. Developed commercial and industrial property "for sale or
rent" signs: One sign per street frontage advertising a
commercial or industrial building for rent or sale is
permitted while the building is actually for rent or
sale. If one face of the building is less than ten (10)
feet from the property line, the sign shall be placed on
the building or in a window. The sign shall not exceed
ten (10) feet to top of sign, if free-standing, shall be
located more than fifteen (15) feet from any abutting
property line and a public right-of-way line. Said sign
shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in sign
area.
5. Undeveloped residential property "for sale" signs: One
on-premise sign per street frontage advertising
undeveloped residential property for sale is permitted
not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in sign area.
Said sign must be placed more than thirty (30) feet from
the abutting owner's property line and may not exceed a
height of ten (10) feet to top of sign.
E. Political Signs. No sign permit is required. Political signs
or posters may be placed upon private property only and shall
not be larger than ten (10) square feet of sign area and shall
not be posted or attached to telephone poles, power poles or
other public utility facilities. Such signs may be displayed
no sooner than the next to the last Monday in July prior to an
election (except for special elections which may display such
signs no sooner than forty-five (45~ days prior to the
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
election) and must be removed seven (7) days after the
election in which the candidate or issue advertised on a sign
has been determined. For a successful candidate in a primary
election the sign may remain until the final election, but
shall be removed within seven (7) days after the election.
The candidate or committee for which the sign is displayed
shall be responsible for its removal and subject to the
penalties as provided in this Code.
F. Garage Sale (Yard Sales, Moving Sales, Patio Sales.) No sign
permit is required. Such sign shall be limited to one (1)
sign on the premises. No such sign shall exceed four (4)
square feet in the sign area. The sign may be displayed only
during the sale and must be removed the day the sale ends .
The person or persons for which the sign is displayed shall be
responsible for its removal and subject to the penalties as
provided in this Code. No individual shall be permitted to
have more than two (2) garage sales per calendar year and
shall not exceed five consecutive days. (Ord. 284 ~9, 1983,
Ord. 255 §4, 1981, Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980 and Ord. 942
§1 (part) , 1992. )
15.24.100 Structural Requirements. The structure and erection of
signs or flag poles within the City shall be governed by the
Uniform Building Code, 1994 Edition (or any superseding edition
adopted by the City.) Ord. 588 ~2(part), 1980.)
15.24.110 Electrical Requirements. Electrical requirements for
signs within the City shall be regulated by the Department of Labor
and Industries. (Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980.)
15.24.120 Illumination. Illumination from or upon any sign shall
be shaded, shielded, directed or reduced so as to avoid undue
brightness, glare or reflection of light on private or public
property in the surrounding area, and so as to avoid unreasonable
distracting pedestrians or motorists. "Undue brightness" is
illumination in excess of that which is reasonable necessary to
make the sign reasonable visible to the average person on an
adjacent street. (Ord. 588 ~2(part), 1980.)
15.24.130 Maintenance. All signs, including signs heretofore
installed shall be constantly maintained in a state of security,
safety, appearance and repair. If any sign is found not to be so
maintained or is insecurely fastened or otherwise dangerous, it
shall be the duty of the owner and/or occupant of the premises on
which the sign is erected to repair or remove the sign within
fifteen (15) days after receiving notice from the Building
Official. The premises surrounding a free-standing sign shall be
free and clear of rubbish and the landscaping area maintained in a
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
tidy manner. (Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980 and Ord. 942 §1 (part),
1992. )
15.24.140 Landscaping for Free-standing and Monument Signs. All
free standing and monument signs shall include as part of their
design landscaping about their base so as to improve the overall
appearance of the installation. (Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980 and Ord.
942 §1(part), 1992.) Landscaping areas shall consist of the
following: 50% of the sign area of which 50o Shrubs - (Minimum 50%
flowering decorative shrubs,) 50o Ground Cover, or Cultivated
flower beds - (Grass not allowed.)
15.24.150 Inspection. All sign users shall permit the periodic
inspection of their sign by the City upon City request. (Ord. 588
§2 (part) , 1980. )
15.24.160 More Restrictive Provision to Apply. Whenever two (2)
provisions of this Code overlap or conflict with regard to the size
or placement of a sign, the more restrictive provision shall apply.
(Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1992.) For those buildings on the Yelm Historic
Register, the historic name painted or affixed to the building
shall not be included in the sign calculations.
15.24.170 Buildings Facing on Two Parallel Streets/or Corner.
Single or multiple occupancy buildings whose premises extend
through a block to face onto parallel streets with customer
entrances on each street are permitted signs as per Section
16.75.180(I) per street frontage as per Section 16.75.180(I).
Provided, however, that each sign is located on different street
frontages and are separated more than one hundred (100) feet
measured in a straight line between the signs. Signage for
buildings located on corner streets shall be permitted 1500 of the
allowed sign area, per Section 15.24.280, with a maximum 100% of
area on one (1) street frontage. (Ord. 588 §2 (part) , 1980 and Ord.
942 §1 (part), 1992.)
15.24.180 Signage on Awnings and Marquees. Signage will be allowed
on awnings and marquees in commercial and industrial zones of the
City. Such Signage shall be limited to thirty percent (30%)
coverage of the face of the marquee or (1) square foot for each
lineal foot of the front of the marquee, whichever is less. The
Signage area shall be calculated on the basis of the smallest
rectangle, circle, or spherical figure that will enclose the entire
copy area of the sign. Any such calculations shall include the
areas between letters and lines as well as the areas of any devices
which are intended to attract attention. (Ord. 817 §4, 1987.)
Signage area shall be included in the overall calculation of total
allowable for the building.
15.24.190 District Regulations.
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
A. General. This section shall apply to all zones designated in
Title 17, of the Yelm Municipal Code (Zoning Code.)
B. Size and Type.
1. Home Occupations. Home occupation signs relate to home
occupation as defined in the Zoning Ordinance. The sign
shall be wall-mounted and shall not exceed four (4)
square feet in area, and cannot be internally
illuminated, but may be indirectly illuminated.
2. Single-family Subdivisions. Two (2) signs identifying a
subdivision may be permitted per entrance from an access
street, provided said signs do not exceed eighteen (18)
square feet in sign area each and five (5) feet in
height. Such signs can be monument, free standing or
fence mounted.
3. Multifamily Complex. Each multifamily complex is
permitted two (2) signs per entrance from an access
street identifying the complex, provided said signs do
not exceed eighteen (18) square feet in sign area each
and five (5) feet in height.
4. Commercial, Industrial and Open Space/Institutional
Districts.
a. Each single occupancy building not in a multiple
building complex is permitted one monument or free
standing sign, per Section 15.24.280 and one (1) of
any of the following signs: awning, marquee, or
wall, per Section 15.24.280.
b. Each multiple occupancy building is permitted one
monument or free standing sign per building, plus
one wall sign for primary exterior entrances as
provided in Section 15.24.280.
c. Each multiple building complex is permitted one
monument or free standing sign per building, plus
one wall sign for primary exterior entrances as
provided in Section 15.24.280.
5. Commercial Subdivisions and Business Park District. Each
commercial subdivision or business park is permitted two
(2) signs per entrance, one (1) wall sign per tenant, per
Section 15.24.280.
C. Location. Free standing signs may be permitted anywhere on
the premises except for within the sight triangle established
by the Yelm Building Official. Monument signs can be located
adjacent to property lines but not within the sight triangle
established by the Yelm Building Official. Directory-type
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
signs not to exceed six (6) square feet in height are
permitted only within multiple building complexes such as
business parks and governmental centers as an aide in client
orientation.
D. Wall signs. The surface area of any building-mounted sign or
canopy-mounted sign shall not exceed the figures derived from
Section 15.24.280.
E. Illumination. Illumination, if used, shall be what is known
as a white or yellow bulb and shall not be blinking,
fluctuating or moving. Light rays shall shine only upon the
sign or upon the property within the premises and shall not
spill over the property lines, in any direction, except by
indirect reflection.
F. Corner Signs. Corner signs shall be permitted, subject to the
following criteria:
If corner parcel with two street frontages and entrances
on both streets and multi-building complex, a monument
sign placed at the corner of the property can be a 2 or
3 faced sign; or,
If corner parcel with 2 street frontages and entrances on
both streets and multi-building complex, regular monument
signs are permitted at each entrance.
15.24.200 Variances. Variances from provisions of this chapter may
be granted by the City Council on recommendation of the Planning
Commission in accordance with Chapter 17.96, of the Yelm Municipal
Code. (Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980.)
15.24.210 Legal Nonconforming Signs.
A. Continuance. Any sign which is in conformance with the
existing code may be continued to be in operation and be
maintained after the effective date of the ordinance codified
in this chapter and shall become a legal nonconforming sign
provided:
1. No such sign shall be changed in any manner that
increases the noncompliance of such sign with the
provision of ordinance codified in this chapter
established for signs in the District in which the sign
is located.
2. The burden of establishing a sign to be legally
nonconforming under this section rests upon the person or
persons, firm or corporation claiming legal status for a
sign.
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
3. "Structural Alteration" means any action that changes the
height, size, or shape of the sign or any action that
affects the base or support (s) of the sign. When a sign
is structurally altered, it ceases to be a legal
nonconforming sign and must conform with the provisions
of this chapter.
4. When a business or activity containing a legal
nonconforming sign is enlarged or remodeled to a value of
sixty (60) percent or more of existing value of real
property improvements, then such sign must be brought in
conformity with this chapter.
5. When a business or activity containing a legal
nonconforming sign changes the type or name of the
business, then such sign must be brought into conformance
with this chapter.
6. The use of temporary and/or special event signs such as
banners, which were purchased prior to the adoption date
of this code may be continued until such time the sign is
replaced. Proof of purchase date is the responsibility
of the applicant.
B. By Violation of the Chapter. Any violation of this chapter
shall terminate immediately the right to maintain a
nonconforming sign. (Ord. 588 ~2(part), 1980 Ord. 942
§1 (part) , 1992. )
15.24.220 Termination of Signs.
A. By Abandonment. No persons shall maintain or permit to be
maintained on any premises owned or controlled by him/her any
sign which has been abandoned.
B. By Destruction, Damage, Obsolescence or Danger. The right to
maintain any legal non-conforming sign shall terminate and
shall cease to exist whenever the sign is:
1. Damaged or destroyed beyond fifty percent (500). The
determination whether a sign is damaged or destroyed
beyond 50 percent (500) shall rest with the Building
official and shall be based upon the actual cast of
replacing said sign; and/or
2. Structurally substandard under any applicable ordinance
of the City to the extent that the sign becomes a hazard
or danger. (Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980.)
15.24.230 Administrator-Appointment-Powers and Duties Generally.
The Building Official shall be appointed and removed by the City
Administrator. The Administrator is authorized and directed to
enforce and carry out all provisions of this Code, both in letter
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
and spirit, with vigilance and with all due speed. To that end,
the Administrator is authorized to formulate procedures consistent
with the purpose of this Code.
The Administrator is further empowered to delegate the duties and
powers granted to and imposed upon him under this Code . As used in
the code, "Administrator of this Code" or Administrator shall
include their authorized representative. (Ord. 588 ~2(part),
1980 e )
15.24.240 Administrator-Inspection Authority. The Administrator is
empowered to enter or inspect any building, structure of premises
in the City, upon which or in connection with which, a sign, as
defined by this Code, is located, for the purpose of inspection of
the sing, its structural and electrical connections and to insure
compliance with the provisions of this Code. Such inspections
shall be carried out during business hours unless an emergency
exists. (Ord. 588 ~2(part), 1980.)
15.24.250 Conflict and Severability. If any provision of this Code
is found to be in conflict with any other provision of any zoning,
building, fire, safety or health ordinance or code of the City, the
provision which establishes the higher standard shall prevail.
(Ord. 588 ~2(part), 1980.)
15.24.260 Violation - Penalty.
A. Violation of the provisions of this Code or failure to comply
with any of its requirements shall constitute a misdemeanor,
and such violation shall be punished as proved by the statues
of the State of Washington for the commission of a
misdemeanor. Each day such violation continues shall be
considered a separate offense.
B. The erector, owner or user of an unlawful sign or the owner of
the property on which an unlawful sign is located and
maintains such violation may each be found guilty of a
separate offense and suffer the penalties as provided for in
the preceding paragraph. (Ord. 588 §2 (part), 1980.)
15.24.270 Removal of Unlawful Signs.
A. Any unlawful permanent type sign which has not been removed
within thirty (30) days after conviction of violation or
imposition of civil penalty, may be removed by the city and
the costs charged to the violator. If removal costs have not
been paid and the sign reclaimed within thirty (30) days of it
removal by the city, the City may sell or otherwise dispose of
the sign and apply the proceeds toward costs of removal. Any
proceeds in excess of costs of removal shall be paid to the
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
owner of the sign.
B. Signs which the Administrator find upon public streets,
sidewalks, rights-of-way or other public property or which
wheresoever located present an immediate and serious danger to
the public because of their unsafe condition may be
immediately removed by the Administrator without prior notice.
C. Any unlawful temporary or portable type sign located on
private property which has not been removed after twenty four
(24) hours from notification may be removed by the City. The
sign may be reclaimed by the owner after a civil penalty of
one hundred (100) dollars has been paid. If the sign has not
been reclaimed within thirty (30) days of its removal by the
City, the City may sell or otherwise dispose of the sign and
apply the proceeds toward costs of the removal. Any proceeds
in excess of costs of the removal shall be paid to the owner
of the sign.
Neither the City nor any of its agents shall be liable for any
damage to the sign when removed under this section. (Ord. 588
~2(part), 1980 and Ord. 942 §1(part), 1992.)
Section 15.24.280 Sign Area - Square Footage Maximums
Blda./Gross Sia n He iaht Sia n Area ( Per Pr operty
Floor Area Side line
Setback
5,000 sq ft or FS - 8 ft FS - ~ 20 sq ft 5 ft
less MS - 5 ft MS - 40 sq ft
5,001 - 10,000 FS - 8 ft FS - z`~ 30 sq ft 5 ft
sq ft MS - 5 ft MS - ~ 50 sq ft
10,001 - FS - ~ 10 ft FS - ~ 35 sq ft 10 ft
35,000 sq ft MS - ~ 6 ft MS - 50 sq ft
35,001 - FS - 10 ft FS - 40 sq ft 10 ft
60,000 sq ft MS - 6 ft MS - 72 sq ft
60,001 - FS - 15 ft FS - 75 sq ft 10 ft
75,000 sq ft MS - 6 ft MS - 90 sq ft
75,001 - FS - 15 ft FS - 100 sq ft 15 ft
100,000 sq ft MS - 6 ft MS - 120 sq ft
100,000 + sq FS - 20 ft FS - 150 sq ft 15 ft
ft MS - 6 ft MS - 120 sq ft
FS - Free standing sign
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ORDINANCE NO. 576
MS - Monument sign
Flush mounted wall signs - One (1) square foot for each lineal foot
of store (occupant) frontage (main point of entry.) One identifier
sign for businesses with a separate delivery access will be
allowed, not to exceed two (2) square feet.
Marquess Sign - One (1) square foot for each lineal foot of the
front of the marquee or thirty percent (300) coverage of the face
of the marquee, whichever is less.
Awning - One (1) square foot for each lineal foot of the front of
the marquee or thirty percent (30%) coverage of the face of the
marquee, whichever is less.
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576
Section 15.24.290 Grand Opening/Special Event Sign Area.
Blda./Gross Proberty
Floor Area Sian Area line
Setback
5,000 sq ft or 16 sq ft 5 ft
less
5,001 - 10,000 20 sq ft 5 ft
sq ft
10,001 - 25 sq ft 10 ft
35,000 sq ft
35,001 - 30 sq ft 10 ft
60,000 sq ft
60,001 - 40 sq ft 10 ft
75,000 sq ft
75,001 - 50 sq ft 15 ft
100,000 sq ft
100,000 + sq 60 sq ft 15 ft
ft
CITY OF YELM
ORDINANCE NO. 576