Bluffdale staff previews proposed changes to temporary commercial signage in training session

During a training segment on Oct. 2, Bluffdale planning staff provided commissioners a deep dive into temporary commercial signage issues and solicited feedback using a live survey. The presentation covered common sign types — banners, vinyl building banners, feather/blade (quill) signs, inflatables and A‑frame/menu board signs — and reviewed how Bluffdale’s current code treats each type (banners by temporary permit, blade/quill and inflatables currently prohibited in some cases, A‑frame signs allowed). Staff said the city’s sign code is generally in the midrange compared with peer cities and emphasized that the project will focus on nonresidential signage.

Staff and commissioners discussed practical problems: businesses using prohibited blade signs and inflatables anyway; A‑frame menu signs being underused; whether some inflatables or blade signs should be permitted during defined promotional periods (grand openings, holidays); and how to handle electronic drive‑through menu boards that do not fit current prohibitions on electronic message centers. Staff said they will consider allowing some otherwise prohibited types during limited promotional periods, clarify rules on off‑site signage, and update provisions governing small electronic menu boards distinct from larger electronic message centers.

The presentation included a live poll of commissioners and attendees; results showed support for limited allowances during promotional periods and interest in balancing streetscape aesthetics with businesses’ marketing needs. Staff said they will refine code language, consult the city attorney as needed, and brief the City Council in the coming weeks with a proposed code amendment after further internal review.