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Staff presents draft sign‑code overhaul; council gives general support and directs notice to planning commission
Summary
Staff presented a draft of sign code revisions including a pictorial glossary, a how‑to guide for applicants, a quick reference table of allowed sign types by zone and simplified wording about ODOT requirements. Councilors showed general support and asked staff to proceed with noticing and planning commission review; staff will refine images and
City planning staff presented a draft overhaul of Title 16 sign standards and supporting materials, including a pictorial glossary, a user “how‑to” guide, a quick‑reference table of allowable sign types by zone, and a simplified statement about ODOT approvals for signs visible from Highway 224.
What staff proposed
Staff proposed reorganizing EMC Chapter 16.72 (signs) to add explanatory materials for applicants and to clarify standards. The draft includes: a picture glossary (staff intends to use copyright‑free images), a short “how to” guide that walks applicants step‑by‑step through determining what permits they need, and a quick‑reference table that shows which sign types are allowed outright, which need a permit under standards, and which are prohibited in each zone.
ODOT and temporary signs
Staff also proposed simplified code language to inform applicants that signs visible from Highway 224 “may require ODOT approval” rather than requiring applicants to obtain ODOT approval before a city permit is considered. Staff said this change shifts responsibility for ODOT conformity to the state while still notifying applicants of possible state rules and risks. Staff noted cross‑street banners and temporary banners would remain regulated under the revised temporary sign provisions.
Council questions and direction
Councilors asked staff whether an online, clickable zoning map that would show allowed sign types for a parcel would be practical. Staff said the quick‑reference table is the easiest immediate resource and that a parcel‑clickable map would require more design work and staff time. Council gave general support to the draft and asked staff to refine images, finalize the how‑to guide and proceed to the planning commission for formal noticing and review.
Ending
Staff will prepare formal draft amendments for public notice and planning commission review; staff said they will seek copyright‑free images and bring back a final draft that incorporates council feedback.
