Planning commission approves downtown sign-code changes to allow rooftop and more flexible signage

The Olathe Planning Commission on a 7–0 vote approved amendments to the city's Unified Development Ordinance that update sign definitions, ease some restrictions on illuminated signs and create more flexibility for downtown signage. Jessica Schueller, senior planner, presented the changes and said staff's intent is "to support the business environment in Olathe and increase unique experiences in places, as well."

Schueller outlined several changes: revised definitions for internally and externally illuminated signage, a clarification that signs not visible from the public right-of-way generally will not require permits, a cumulative sign-area calculation limiting total signage to 15% of a tenant's facade, and a recommendation to allow one mid-block rooftop sign per block in the downtown core with limits on location and scale. She also said painted signage would be treated like wall signs with a maximum of 10% of the wall area, and recommended that planning commission be the approval body for most sign exceptions rather than the board of zoning appeals. "We are also recommending an allowance for rooftop signage," Schueller said.

Commissioners asked whether the downtown approach could be expanded to other redeveloped areas in the future and pressed for clarity on the 10% painted-sign metric; Schueller said the 10% follows existing wall-sign requirements and that allowable sizes vary with facade scale. With no public speakers signed up, the commission closed the hearing and approved the amendment, which Schueller said staff will forward to City Council for consideration and adoption.