Bluffdale commission backs looser temporary‑signage rules, adds enforcement path

The Bluffdale Planning Commission unanimously forwarded a recommended text amendment to the city council that would relax several temporary‑sign rules and clarify enforcement under the city’s civil penalty procedure.

Ellen Oakman, the staff presenter, summarized prior work‑session feedback and the proposed changes, saying the proposal would permit banners up to 24 square feet as temporary signs, increase banners from two to three per street frontage, allow three feather blade signs per frontage, and expand allowed occurrences and durations. She said the draft also permits two inflatables and pennants for grand openings and allows vinyl building banners for 90 days from the date of the business license, with a 10‑day removal requirement for violations.

On enforcement, a staff member explained the city’s new civil penalty process: notice of violation, time to correct, accruing fines, and a hearing officer process. The staff member said the civil approach is intended to replace prior criminal enforcement for minor zoning sign infractions and that staff is developing a simple one‑page temporary‑sign form to help businesses track allowed occurrences.

The commission opened the public hearing; no emails or public attendees offered comments and the hearing was closed. A motion to forward a positive recommendation (as presented or modified by findings/conditions) passed unanimously with commissioners Eric, Tina, Michael and the chair voting aye.

The item will proceed to the city council for consideration; staff said council scheduling is expected in 2025.