HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-19-2019 Planning Commission Meeting Packet city0j, AGENDA
� PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
City Hall-Council Chambers
525 North Third Avenue
Pasco,Washington
THURSDAY,DECEMBER 19,2019
7.00 PM
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. ROLL CALL: Declaration of Quorum
III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
IV. WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2019
VI. OLD BUSINESS
A. Code Amendment Planned-Unit Development Revision
(CA 2019-010)
VII. WORKSHOP
A. Code Amendment Sign Code Introduction
B. Code Amendment House Bill 1923
C. Code Amendment Lots and Blocks Street Layout
(CA 2019-013)
VIII. OTHER BUSINESS
A. Comprehensive Plan Update
B. Election of Chair
IX. ADJOURNMENT
This meeting is broadcast live on PSC-TV Channel 191 on Charter Cable and streamed at www.pasco-wa.com/psctvlive.
Audio equipment available for the hearing impaired;contact staff for assistance.
Please silence your cell phones. Thank you.
MINUTES
WCO
of PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
City Hall -Council Chambers
525 North Third Avenue
Pasco, Washington
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21,2019
7:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
City of Pasco Planning Commission meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.,by Chair Zahra Roach
who announced tonight would be her last Planning Commission meeting due to recently being elected
to Pasco City Council. Members of the Board congratulated Ms. Roach.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Ms. Tanya Bowers, Mr. Joseph Campos, Mr. Paul Mendez, Ms. Anne
Jordan, Mr. Isaac Myhrum, Ms. Zahra Roach and Pam Ransier and a quorum was declared.
Staff Present: Community & Economic Development Director Rick White and Temporary
Administrative Assistant II Sherrie Young.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Chair Roach led the Pledge of Allegiance.
WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Chair Roach explained the Planning Commission is an advisory board made up of volunteers
appointed by City Council.
She further explained the purpose of the Planning Commission was to provide recommendations to
City Council regarding changes to the City's Comprehensive Plan, Land Use Updates, Block Grant
Allocations and Zoning Code. The Planning Commission is tasked with considering the long-term
growth and development of the community,the impact of land use decisions on community,livability,
economic opportunity, housing affordability, public services and the environment.
Chair Roach reminded the audience tonight's proceedings were being broadcast live on City of
Pasco's Facebook page and on Charter Cable PSC Channel 191 and will be rebroadcast several times
during the next month.
She stated the meeting was also being recorded and could be watched on City of Pasco's website,
which is Pasco-wa.gov. Click on the VIDEO ON DEMAND link and make your selection there.
Chair Roach stated copies of the meeting agenda were available on the back table.
She then asked that everyone silence cell phones to prevent interruptions during the meeting.
For those present this evening,when you are given the opportunity to address the Commission,please
come to the podium, speak clearly into the microphone and state your name and city of address for
the record.
Chair Roach reminded the audience and the Planning Commission that Washington State law requires
public meetings like the one being held this evening not only be fair, but also appear to be fair.
In addition, Washington State Law prohibits Planning Commission members from participating in
discussions or decisions in which the member may have a direct interest or may be either benefited
or harmed by the Planning Commission's decision. An objection to any Planning Commission
member hearing any matter on tonight's agenda needs to be aired at this time or it will be waived.
Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 1 of 4 November 21,2019
There were no declarations.
Chair Roach asked if anyone in the audience objected to any Planning Commission member hearing
any of the items on the agenda.
There were no declarations.
Chair Roach stated the Planning Commission needed and valued public input explaining it helped the
Commission understand the issues more clearly and allowed for better recommendations to City
Council. Furthermore, in many cases, this could be the only forum for the public to get facts and
opinions placed into the official record and City Council will use to make the Commission's decision.
She encouraged those present to take full advantage of this opportunity.
APPROVAL Or MINUTES
❖ Commissioner J. Campos moved to approve the Planning Commission meeting Minutes of
October 17, 2019. Commissioner Bowers seconded and the motion carried.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Code Amendment (CA2019-010) Planned-Unit Development Revision: Community and
Economic Development Director Rick White addressed the Commission and explained that following
the October 2019 Planning Commission meeting, staff addressed comments and questions raised by
Commissioners relating to guest parking, PUD Ownership and minimum densities required by other
jurisdictions. Revisions were also made to the density bonus criteria to include diversity of housing
options. He explained staff's recommendation was to set December 19, 2019 as the date for
deliberations and agreeing to a recommendation to City Council
Chair Roach opened the Public Hearing at 7:07 p.m. There were no public comments.
❖ After a brief discussion, Commissioner Bowers moved to close the public hearing at 7.11
p.m., and set December 19,23019 as the date for deliberations and the recommendation for
City Council Commissioner Ransier seconded and the motion carried.
Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 4 November 21,2019
i
i
I
Land Use Amendment (CPA 2019-001) Kidwell: Mr. White stated the owners of a 3.9-acre parcel
(#115-180-065) located at the northwest corner of Broadmoor Boulevard and Burns Road have
requested a Comprehensive Land Use designation change from High Density Residential to Mixed
Residential/Commercial. Mr. White explained there was no action required at this time. Based on
the ongoing Broadmoor Master Plan,the need to accommodate additional residents at higher densities
and the Capital Improvement Plan, staff recommended the area remain High Density Residential.
Chair Roach asked if the same property owner had requested this area be rezoned in the past. Mr.
White confirmed the same owner had requested the area be rezoned from Low Density Residential to
High Density Residential in late December 2016 and the Commission approved the staff
recommended rezone.
Chair Roach opened the Public Hearing at 7:16,p.m. Mr. Tom Kidwell and Mr. Todd Kidwell
addressed the Commission stating Mr. Todd Kidwell wanted to open a Shell gas station with a car
wash on the property.
Commissioner Bowers asked if there would be a convenience store at the location and Mr. Todd
Kidwell confirmed it would also be a convenience store.
Commissioner Jordan asked if there would be car charging stations at the location. Mr. Todd Kidwell
said he was working on getting charging stations.
Commissioner Ransier thanked the Kidwells for coming to address the Commission and asked why
the apartment ideas was abandoned. Mr. Todd Kidwell said he wasn't involved with that idea.
There were no other public comments.
After a brief discussion, Mr. White reiterated action was not needed and felt the request should be
revisiting the request once the Broadmoor Master Plan and Comprehensive Plan have been presented
to the Planning Commission.
Chair Roach closed the Public Hearing at 7:35 p.m.
Land Use Amendment (CPA 201989-003) Paul Miles (Rio Del Sol): Mr. White explained the
owners of approximately 5.5 acres located southeast of the intersection of Hopkins Street and Rod
36, west of the Moore Mansion,have requested a Comprehensive Land Use designation change from
Low Density Residential to Mixed Residential/Commercial.
Chair Roach opened the Public Hearing at 7:38 p.m. There were no public comments.
Commissioner J. Campos believes the applicant passed away earlier this year.
After a brief discussion of the lack of public street access and safety concerns with non-existing ADA
facilities,Commissioner J. Campos moved to close the Public Hearing at 7:40 and that the area remain
Low Density Residential. Commissioner Ransier seconded and the motion carried.
OTHER BUSINESS
Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 4 November 21,2019
Comprehensive Plan Update: Mr. White stated this updated serves as an opportunity for the
Planning Commission to review and provide comment on the draft Comprehensive Plan elements of
Capital Facilities, Transportation and Implementation &Monitoring.
Mr. White explained the Transportation element was a very complicated situation and had been
completely rewritten, as had the Implementation &Monitoring element.
There was extensive discussion regarding the traffic congestion during "rush hour" at Roads 68 and
100. Both areas are very problematic during rush hour, but because all other times, the traffic flow
is normal, it becomes a difficult to issue to manage.
There was extensive discussion regarding the possibility of a bridge across the Columbia River from
Richland to Pasco but the probability of that solution is forty to fifty years out and not a solution for
the traffic issues with rush hour we have today.
Mr. White explained City of Pasco would be compiling the first ever Transportation Master Plan but
cautioned this was a big undertaking and municipalities cannot do it alone as state funding is needed.
He suggested contacting the state legislators.
Commissioner Bowers asked why the Lewis Street overpass was not mentioned in the update.
Mr. White explained the recent passage of Initiative 976, approximately forty-five percent (45%) of
the funding for the project evaporated.
Commissioner Ransier thanked staff for the work put into the Comprehensive Plan and realized the
importance and value.
2020 Commissioner Required Training: Mr. White announced the Commissioners were required
to take Quasi-Judicial Proceedings and Open Public Meetings training in 2020.
New Aerials: Mr. White informed the Commission new aerials were scheduled for spring of 2020.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to bring before the Planning Commission, the meeting was adjourned at
7:45pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Sherrie Young, Temporary Administrative Assistant 11
Community& Economic Development Department
Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 4 November 21,2019
MEMORANDUM TO PLANNING COMMISSION
City-f PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
Pasco City Hall —525 North Third Avenue—Council Chambers
DATE:THURSDAY, December 19th, 2019
7:00 PM
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Jacob B. Gonzalez, Senior Planner
SUBJECT: MF # CA2019-010—Planned Unit Development Revisions
A Planned Unit Development (PUD) is both a type of development and a regulatory process. PUDs
are identified in the Pasco Municipal Code (PMC) in Title 25.140 with the purpose of providing
opportunities for innovation, creativity and flexibility for land development within the city. PUDs
can include a variety of housing types and are often maintained by a homeowner's association.
In addition to the housing types,the benefit of PUDs is that they can offer amenities such as open
space, parks and gathering spaces for the homeowners within the development.
As identified in the PMC, PUDs are exempt from certain design standards and requirements
including: minimum lot size and setbacks. While the code currently allows for flexibility, the
minimum site area requirement of ten acres (PMC 25.140.030) is prohibitive of where the PUD
ordinance can actually be applied.
An effort to amend the Planned Unit Development ordinance began in 2017 with revisions to the
open space criteria. In 2018, additional revisions were identified to include a reduction to the
minimum site area and density requirements. This item was continued at the July 2019 Planning
Commission meeting to allow for more staff coordination.
Staff has provided the following analysis and proposed code amendments to the Planned Unit
Development requirements for your review.
Analysis— Minimum Site Area Requirement
The table below includes the minimum site area required by jurisdictions of varying sizes.
Jurisdiction Minimum Site Area
City of Kennewick (WA) 5 Acres
City of Olympia (WA) None
City of Vancouver(WA) None
City of Spokane (WA) None
City of Yakima (WA) 2 Acres
Table l-Minimum Site Area Comparison
The City of Pasco requirement of a minimum of ten acres is twice the size of our neighboring
jurisdiction (Kennewick). Because of the continued residential growth, staff believes the city
requirement for site area should be reduced to align more closely between other large cities in
Washington.
1
The City Comprehensive Plan identifies four land-use classifications that permit residential
development. Aligning the site requirement to correlate with the intended goals and uses of each
land use classification would allow a PUD to be utilized while remaining consistent with the
underlying residential zoning district. The current PMC exempts a PUD from various design
standards and requirements, intended to promote its utilization however additional parameters
should be included to ensure that the PUD is developed to meet the goals and policies of each
land-use classification.
The table below provides the minimum density (units) for each land-use classification of the
Pasco Comprehensive Plan.
Land Use Classification Minimum Units/Acre
Low Density Residential 6 du /acre
Mixed Residential 12 du / acre
High Density Residential 21 du / acre
Mixed Residential/ Commercial 17 du / acre
Table 2-Proposed Minimum Density Requirements for PVDs
Analysis—Open Space Requirement
The PUD ordinance is a tool provided to allow for flexibility in the land development code. In
exchange for this flexibility, the PUD was to provide a minimum percentage of open space for
those residing within the development. The current requirement of 35% can create a challenge
for the utilization of the PUD ordinance.
Jurisdiction Open Space Requirement
City of Kennewick (WA) 15 %
City of Vancouver(WA) 10%
City of Spokane (WA) 10%
Table 3-Open Space Requirement Comparison
Staff is proposing to clearly define Open Space and reduce the requirement from 35%to 15%.
Suggested wording for the definition of Open Space is as follows:
The PUD shall provide not less than 15 percent of the gross land area for common open
space. Common open space shall be accessible to all owners or tenants of the
development at the time of final approval. Open space shall be provided for active or
passive recreational activities and for the preservation of existing natural site amenities
whenever possible. Maintenance and operation of the open space shall be the
responsibility of the property(s) owner or homeowners association.
(a) Open space shall not include:
i. Streets, alleys, and other rights-of-way;
ii. Vehicle drives, parking, loading and storage areas;
2
(b) Examples of amenities and open space can include but not limited to:
L Pedestrian pathways and bike trails;
ii. Open lawn areas, playgrounds, recreation fields;
iii. Community gardens;
iv. Community club area
Analysis—Private Streets and Connectivity
The current PUD allows for the use of private streets; however, a clear and consistent standard
for private streets does not exist in the Pasco Municipal Code. Planning and Public Works staff
coordinated to identify an appropriate standard that can be used by applicants when necessary
to meet the density requirements of a proposed PUD. Additionally, language was added to the
revised PMC to ensure new PUDs will have street and pedestrian connectivity to existing, planned
or proposed streets to adjacent neighborhoods.
Updates from October 2019 Planning Commission Meeting
Following the October 2019 Planning Commission meeting, staff have addressed comments and
questions raised by commission members relating to guest parking, PUD ownership and
minimum densities required by other jurisdictions. Revisions were also made to the density
bonus criteria to include diversity of housing options.
Guest Parking:
Guest parking was revised from what was included in the October 2019 staff report to
align with a more appropriate ratio of larger jurisdictions.
Examples:
Jurisdiction Guest Parking Requirements
Kenmore, WA 1 : 5du
Bothell,WA 1 : 5du
Kennewick,WA +5%for guests
Staff recommends the following:
Minimum Maximum
1: 6du 1: 10 du
The guest parking is in addition to each proposed PUD meeting the requirements for off-
street parking in PMC 25.185. An example of a proposed PUD and parking requirements
is identified below:
Guest Total DU PMC Total Guest Total Parking
Requirement Requirement Parking (All)
1: 6 DU 10 20 3.33 23.33
1: 6 DU 45 90 15.00 105.00
1: 10:D U 10== 20 2.00 22.00
1: 10 DU 45 90 9.00 99.00
3
PUD Ownership:
A question on the approval of a PUD improvement based on ownership was raised, and
is now clarified within the proposed code amendment. In the case a private street is
part of the development, a PUD will not be permitted where the property owner does
not control both sides of the proposed private street.
Minimum Densities:
Minimum densities are included in most Planned Unit Development ordinances to
comply with the underlying land use requirements. Staff feels that including a clear
requirement in addition will benefit users of the PMC.
Bonus Criteria:
Criteria for meeting the bonus density requirement are expanded from the PUD code, as
it currently exists to include open space and amenities. In addition, staff recommend
including developments that comprise two or more housing types such as duplexes or
triplexes in combination with single-family detached dwelling units.
RECOMMENDATION
MOTION: I move the Planning Commission recommend to the City Council the adoption
of the proposed code amendments for Planned Unit Developments as contained in the
December 19th, 2019 Planning Commission staff report.
4
Chapter 25.140
PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT
Sections:
25.140.010-Purpose.
25.140.020-Permitted uses.
25.140.030 -Minimum site area.
25.140.040 -Relationship to adjacent areas.
25.140.050 -Phased development.
25.140.060 -Combined preliminary and final PUD.
25.140.070 -Concurrent platting.
25.140.080 -Design standards and requirements.
25.140.090 -Procedure for approval of planned unit developments.
25.140.100 -Effective preliminary planned unit development approval.
25.140.110 -Preliminary PUD approval expiration.
25.140.120 -Final PUD application.
25.140.130 -Expiration of time limits.
25.140.140 -Changes and modifications.
25.140.150 -Building permits.
25.140.010 -Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to provide opportunities for innovation,creativity and flexibility in land
development within the City.It is intended to encourage the development of efficient,high quality development
through flexibility in building controls,including density,lot sizes,setbacks and heights,The result must
preserve and enhance the public health,safety,welfare and access of the community and must be consistent
with the Comprehensive Plan.
Furthermore,it is the purpose of this chapter to:
(1) Encourage development that enhances the quality of life while protecting the health,safety,welfare
and access of residents;
(2) Increase housing supply,and the choice of housing styles available in the community;
(3)Preserve to the greatest extent:possible the existing land forms and natural vegetation and minimize
adverse effect on sensitive environmental areas;
(4)Promote high-quality design and aesthetics;and
(5) Lessen development impacts on adjacent areas through site design and necessary mitigation
measures.
(6) Provide guidelines for development of planned unit developments.[Ord.3354§2,1999;Code 1970
§25.62.010.]
25.140.020 Permitted uses.
The planned unit development district may be approved for any use or combination of uses permitted by this
title except combinations of residential and industrial uses.Uses permitted in any specific PUD district shall be
enumerated in the ordinance establishing such a district.[Ord.3354§2, 1999;Code 1970§25.62.020.]
25.140.030-Minimum site area.
The minimum site area for a Planned Unit Development within a proposed development application,including
the area of public and/or private streets,shall be as follows:
Comprehensive Plan Land Use Classification Minimum Site Area Acres
Low Density Residential 2
Mixed Residential None
High-Density Residential None
Mixed Residential/Commercial None
25.140.040 -Relationship to adjacent areas.
The design and layout of a PUD shall take into account the relationship of the site to the surrounding areas.
(1) The street system of a proposed Planned Unit Development shall be designed to connect with
existing,proposed,and planned streets outside of the proposed site;
(2)Planned streets shall connect with surrounding streets to permit the convenient movement of vehicles
and to facilitate emergency access and evacuation;and
(3)The perimeter of the PUD shall be so designed as to minimize any adverse impact on adjacent
properties.
25.140.050-Phased development.
Development of a planned unit development may be phased,in which case all the property anticipated for PUD
development shall be submitted as a preliminary PUD showing a conceptual depiction of the eventual
development through all phases.Subsequent to legislative approval of the preliminary PUD plan,portions of the
development may be submitted as a final PUD for review and approval.[Ord.3354§2, 1999;Code 1970§
25.62.050.]
25.140.060-Combined preliminary and final PUD.
In all cases,the preliminary PUD and final PUD may be combined and processed as a final PUD.[Ord.3354§
2, 1999;Code 1970§25.62.060.]
25.140.070-Concurrent platting.
Plats for PVDs requiring platting may be processed concurrently with the PUD approval procedures.[Ord.3354
§2, 1999;Code 1970§25.62.070.1
25.140.080-Design standards and requirements.
(1) Subdivision Requirements.If land or structures within a proposed PUD are to be sold to more than
one person,partnership,firm or corporation,or are to include the dedication of land,then the proposed
PUD shall be subject to the short plat or long plat procedures of PMC Title 21;
(2) Right-of-Way Requirements.City policy with regards to the dedication of right-of-way and right-of-
way improvements as established in Resolution No. 1372 and PMC 12.04.100 are waived in a PUD;
(3) Zoning Requirements.A planned unit development shall be exempt from the minimum lot size and
-site parking is located in front of a structure,that portion
setback standards of this title except,where on j
of the structure shall be set back 10 feet from the property line;
(4)Density Requirements.A minimum density requirement shall be established for each land-use
identified in the Comprehensive Plan.The minimum density requirements are provided in the table
below:
Deleted:¶
Land Use Classification Minimum Units/Acre
Low Density Residential 6 du/acre
Mixed Residential 12 du/acre
High Density Residential 21 du/acre
Mixed Residential/Commercial 17 du/acre
(5) Density Bonus.The Planning Commission may recommend and the City Council may authorize a
density not more than 20 percent greater than what is otherwise permitted following findings that the
amenities and design features identified in 25.185(6)which promote the purposes of this chapter are
provided or where a proposed PUD includes two or more housing types(sin e-family dwelling units,
duplexes,triplexes); i Deleted:
(6)Amenities and Open Space Requirements.The PUD shall provide not less than 15 percent of the
gross land area for common open space.Common open space shall be accessible to all owners or tenants
of the development at the time of final approval.Open space shall be provided for active or passive
recreational activities and for the preservation of existing natural site amenities whenever possible.
Maintenance and operation of the open space shall be the responsibility of the property(s)owner or
homeowners association.
(a)Open space shall not include:
i.Streets,alleys,and other rights-of-way;
ii.Vehicle drives,parking,loading and storage areas;
(b)Examples of amenities and open space can include but not limited to:
i.Pedestrian pathways and bike trails;
ii.Open lawn areas,playgrounds,recreation fields,swimming pools;
iii.Community gardens;
iv.Community club area
(7) Lot Requirements.Minimum lot areas,lot dimensions,building heights,lot coverage and yard
requirements shall be as established on the approved development plan;
(8) Setbacks between Buildings.A distance between all structures shall at a minimum comply with the
standards prescribed by the most current edition of the International Building and Fire Codes as adopted
by the City Council;and
(9)Public Street Standards.Public street standards,as identified in PMC 21.15.020 shall apply.
(10)Private Street Standards.Private streets may be approved if the applicant can demonstrate that the
minimum density as identified in PMC 25.140.080(4)cannot be achieved without a modification to the
public street standards.Proposed private streets may not interfere with proposed or identified future
road/street connections as identified in the Comprehensive Plan.Private street improvements for a PUD
shall meet the standards for Local Access Roads,at a minimum,with the exception being that sidewalk
must be present on at least one side and on-street parking must be present on one side.This will result in
a roadway section,with curb and gutter,that measures 31'back-to-back of curb.Storm water facilities
must be able to treat and retain all storm water on-site without any runoff enter City of Pasco right-of-
way.
----- --------------------------------------------------------- Deleted-,¶
Where a private street is proposed,a PUD will not be permitted where the property owner does not
control or own both sides of the proposed private street.
(11)Utility improvements.Water,sewer and irrigation(if applicable)improvements shall be required at
the time the property is developed and shall be required for all properties.Water and sewer utilities shall
be extended through the length of the property being developed.The design and construction of water
and sewer utilities shall conform to the construction standards as prepared by the City Engineer.To the
fullest extent,possible City utilities shall be located in the roadway prism. Adequate easements must be
provided for all utilities as determined by the City Engineer.
(12)Guest Parking.Guest parking shall be provided when on-street parking is not constructed.The table
below identifies guest-parking requirements.
Minimum Ones ace er six dwelling units
Maximum One space per 10 dwellin unit
(13) Residential design standards:See PMC 25.165.100.[Ord.3731 §§20&21,2005;Ord.3354§2,
1999;Code 1970§25.62.080.]
25.140.090-Procedure for approval of planned unit developments.
The approval of a planned unit development shall be by the City Council,upon recommendation of the Hearing
Examiner,and shall be processed in accordance with the following procedures:
(1) Who May Apply.Any owner or group of owners of contiguous property acting jointly may submit
an application for a PUD.
(2) Pre-application.Prior to the acceptance of an application for PUD approval a pre-application
conference between representatives of the City and the potential applicant is required.This conference
shall be set by the Planning Department at the request of the potential applicant.The purpose of the pre-
application conference is to acquaint the applicant with various code requirements affecting PUD
districts.
(3) Application.The applicant shall file a PUD district application for preliminary plan approval with
the Planning Division.All applications will be processed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter
25.210 PMC.The application shall be accompanied by the following:
(a) A filing fee in an amount equal to the rezone fee;
(b) A completed SEPA checklist;
(c) A vicinity map;and
(d) Twelve copies of maps and drawings comprising the preliminary plan.
(4) Preliminary Plan.The preliminary PUD district plan shall indicate or include the following:
(a) Written documents,including but not limited to:
(i) A legal description;
(ii) Statement of present ownership;
(iii) Statement of intent,including any plans for selling or renting the property;
(iv) A timetable of development,including a phasing schedule if project will be
developed in phases;
(v) Provisions to assure maintenance of all common areas;and
(vi) Proposed restrictive covenants,if any.
(b) Relationship of the property to the surrounding area,including identification of land use and
zoning of both the site and vicinal properties.
(c) Names and dimensions of streets bounding,traversing or touching upon the site.
(d) Location and width of proposed streets and pedestrian ways,arrangement of common off-
street parking and recreational vehicle storage areas.
(e) Location,layout and conceptual landscape design of all common yards,open space and
recreational areas.
(f) Proposed method of street lighting and signing.
(g) Existing and proposed utilitysystems,including irrigation plan.
(h) Existing site conditions,showing contours at five-foot intervals and location of significant
geographic features.
(i) Approximate building locations,buildable areas and building heights.
(5) Public Hearing Before the Hearing Examiner.Following a public hearing,the Hearing Examiner
may recommend approval or denial of the application and accompanying PUD plans or may recommend
imposition of such conditions of approval as are necessary to ensure conformity to all applicable
regulations and the purposes of the PUD district.A PUD may be recommended for approval only when
it has been determined that:
(a) The PUD district development will be compatible with nearby developments and uses.
(b) Peripheral treatment ensures proper transition between PUD uses and nearby external uses
and developments.
(c) The development will be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and the purposes of the
PUD district.
(d) The public health,safety and welfare have been served.[Ord.4433§1,2019;Ord.3354§2,
1999;Code 1970§25.62.090.]
25.140.100-Effective preliminary planned unit development approval.
Legislative approval of a preliminary PUD shall constitute a zone change of the subject property from the
former zoning designation to a planned unit development zone.The ordinance establishing a PUD zone will
enumerate the uses permitted and the district.[Ord.3354§2, 1999;Code 1970§25.62.100.]
25.140.110-Preliminary PUD approval expiration.
Preliminary PUD approval shall be effective for five years from the date of approval by the City Council,
during which time a final PUD or the first phase of a staged PUD shall be submitted for approval.If the final
PUD or initial phase is not submitted within the five-year approval period,the preliminary PUD shall be null
and void,unless the Hearing Examiner grants an extension not to exceed a one-year period.A one-year
extension of the preliminary PUD approval does not require a public hearing.In a phased PUD,successive
phases are to be approved and constructed within five years of the previously approved phase.[Ord.4433§2,
2019;Ord.3354§2, 1999;Code 1970§25.62.110.]
25.140.120-Final PUD application.
After receiving preliminary approval,the applicant may submit a detailed final development plan in conformity
to the approved preliminary PUD.The procedures for final PUD approval shall be as those prescribed for
preliminary PUD approval in PMC 25.140.090,except the Hearing Examiner review is not required for final
PUD approval under this section.Detailed development plans shall contain the following information:
(1) Vicinity map;
(2) A detailed site plan in conformance with the approved preliminary plan showing land uses and
vehicular and pedestrian access and circulation;
(3) Boundary survey of the entire property or the development phase;
(4) Construction specification for streets and pedestrian ways,including a typical roadway section
showing location of all utilities;
(5) Location and height of all buildings indicating either the dimensions or the limits within which
buildings will be constructed;
(6) Preliminary engineering plans for water,sewer,storm drainage,electric power,telephone and gas;
(7) Preliminary subdivision plat if the property is to be subdivided;
(8) Landscape plans for open space,common areas,streets,pedestrian ways and recreational facilities;
(9) Location,arrangement and dimensions of parking facilities and loading areas;
(10) Preliminary architectural plans and elevations of typical buildings and structures;and
(11) Covenants,property owner agreements or other provisions that will govern the use,maintenance
and perpetual care of the PUD and all of its open space and property held in common.[Ord.4433§3,
2019;Ord.3354§2, 1999;Code 1970§25.62.120.]
25.140.130-Expiration of time limits.
Construction of improvements in a PUD shall begin within one year from the date of final PUD approval by the
City Council.An extension of time for improvements(streets and utilities)may be requested in writing by the
applicant,and such request shall be granted by the City Council for a period of one year.If construction does
not occur within five years from the legislative approval,the PUD district designation shall be dropped from the
official zoning map and zoning shall revert to the former district designation.[Ord.3354§2, 1999;Code 1970
§25.62.130.]
25.140.140-Changes and modifications.
(1) Major changes in the approved final development plan shall be considered as a new application for
preliminary approval.Major changes include:
(a) Change in use;
(b) Major realignment of vehicular circulation patterns;
(c) Increase in density or relocation of density pattern;
(d) Reduction of open space;
(e) Change in exterior boundaries,except survey adjustments;
(f) Increase in building height.
(2) The Planning Division may approve changes in the development plan that are minor in nature and
are consistent with the approved plan.[Ord.4433§4,2019;Ord.3354§2, 1999;Code 1970§
25.62.140.]
25.140.150-Building permits.
No building permits shall be issued until final PUD or phase approval has been granted by the City Council.
The construction and development of all common areas and open space of each project phase shall be
completed to coincide with the completion of structures.For example,when 25 percent of the structures are
completed,25 percent of the common areas are required to be completed.[Ord.3354§2, 1999;Code 1970§
25.62.150.]
MEMORANDUM
DATE: December 11, 2019
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Rick White, Director
Community& Economic Development
SUBJECT: Sign Code
Commission, as you probably recall the City is embarking on a process to revise and form a new
Sign Code.
Staff has been working with an attorney that was chosen from several that responded to our request
for qualifications and we expect that we will be able to have an outline of her initial revision
process, approximately the beginning of February 2020.
Attached to this memo is an overview of current considerations for "content neutrality". What
follows the initial explanation of"content neutrality"is an explanation and direction on where our
consultant thinks that the structural organization of the sign code can be changed.
Please keep in mind that this is a two phase process. The initial phase will be comprised of the
development of the regulatory framework to comply with "content neutral" case law. The second
phase-which will be more complex -will be the development of area-specific signage regulations
for the downtown area, several commercial corridors, and likely the Broadmoor area. Although
the second phase is likely to be more complex, staff would like to make sure that the Planning
Commission is aware of the direction the regulatory framework is taking and is aware of some of
the considerations that are involved in preparing that regulatory framework.
Pasco Sign Codei
sc®
Code Audit and Annotated Outline .r•
Contents 4111
I. Overview............................................................................................................................. 1
II. Legal Overview.................................................................................................................... 2
A. All Speech Regulations Must be Content-Neutral............................................................... 2
B. Non-Commercial Speech Requires More Protection than Commercial Speech.................... 2
C. Off-Premises Signs Can be Regulated Differently than On-Premises Signs.......................... 3
III. Annotated Outline................................................................................................................ 3
A. Chapter 17.05: Purpose and Intent.................................................................................... 4
B. Chapter 17.10: Definitions and Measurements................................................................... 6
C. Chapter 17.15: Applicability and Permit Requirements......................................................14
D. Chapter 17.20: Sign Allowances by Zone District..............................................................18
E. Chapter 17.25: On-Premises, Permanent Sign Standards.................................................25
F. Chapter 17.30: Temporary Sign Standards.......................................................................26
G. Chapter 17.35: Off-Premises Signs...................................................................................29
H. Chapter 17.40: Nonconforming Signs...............................................................................33
I. Chapter 17.45: Construction Standards............................................................................34
J. Chapter 17.50: Maintenance and Abandonment...............................................................36
K. Chapter 17.55: Sign Permit Procedures............................................................................37
L. Chapter 17.60: Violations and Enforcement......................................................................40
IV. Next Steps......................................................................................................................41
I. Overview
Phase 1 of the Pasco Sign Code Update project is focused on bringing the current Pasco sign
code into compliance with the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Reed v. Town of Gilbert.' This
report provides an outline of the proposed updated, Reed-compliant Pasco sign code with
descriptive annotations of how the various code sections will be updated and brought together.
Each section of the annotated outline includes provisions from the current sign code with brief
commentary about potential issues with Reed and general organizational improvements. The
report starts with a brief synopsis of how the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Reed v. Town of
Gilbert impacts local government regulation of signs.
This document is intended to provide a roadmap for the Phase 1 update. It has two purposes:
(1)to be used by the City staff and consultant as the basis for a discussion about both necessary
and recommended sign code changes, and (2) as a starting point for thinking through how the
' 576 U.S._ , 135 S. Ct. 2218 (2015).
1 1 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
current regulations could also be updated to accommodate the regulatory changes the City
would like to accomplish in Phase 2 of the sign code update project. The recommendations in
this Code Audit and Annotated Outline are preliminary and are subject to revision based on City
input and ongoing legal analysis.
I1. LegalOverview2
This section provides a very general overview of the legal requirements for the regulation of
speech and the changes required following Reed.
A. All Speech Regulations Must be Content-Neutral
The starting place for any regulation of speech is content-neutrality. This doctrine requires that
we cannot regulate protected expression (here, sign speech, also includes protest and some
artistic expression)based on the subject matter or viewpoint of somebody's message. "Content-
neutrality" means that local government "has no power to restrict expression because of its
message, its ideas, its subject matter, or its content.113 There are a few narrow exceptions to
this requirement that we will address in Chapter 17.15, Applicability and Sign Permit
Requirements.
The Reed decision is focused on content-neutrality. The Town of Gilbert had a sign code that
established different standards for a range of temporary signs based on the sign type, and the
sign type was determined by the sign message. Beyond using the message to identify the sign
type, the Town did not actually regulate the message. The United States Supreme Court held,
though, that identifying the sign type by message type was, in fact, treating the message
differently based on content which violated the content-neutrality requirement. The rule
expressed in Reed is if. (1) "on its face [the law] draws distinctions based on the message a
speaker conveys" or on the topic of speech, or (2) if the law "cannot be justified without
reference to the content of the regulated speech," the law will most likely be overturned by the
court.
B. Non-Commercial Speech Requires More Protection than Commercial Speech
Seems perfectly clear, but as with most Supreme Court rulings, there's more. Courts recognize
both commercial speech and non-commercial speech. Non-commercial speech is typically a
statement of a person's opinion or beliefs, while commercial speech is speech that proposes a
commercial transaction or speech that is related to the economic interests of the speaker and
audience. Commercial speech is protected by the First Amendment, but not to the same level
as non-commercial speech; courts often refer to non-commercial speech as "high-value"
speech. Regulations that limit non-commercial speech are "presumptively invalid" and rarely
survive judicial review. Conversely, government can regulate commercial speech if: (1) the
government has a "substantial interest" that is furthered by the regulation, (2) the regulation
directly advances the interest, and (3) the regulation is written as narrowly as possible.
Prior to Reed, there was some belief that local government staff could read the sign copy to
determine whether the sign expressed commercial or non-commercial speech and regulate
accordingly. Reed is a non-commercial speech decision, but it is drafted as if it is also applicable
to commercial speech and it seems to have ended-up blurring the line between the two. That
lack of clarity has caused courts, commentators, and communities to hesitate in determining
what distinctions and standards can be included in sign codes based on the type of speech
2 This section is informational only and is not intended to provide a legal opinion.
3 Reed citing Police Dept. of Chicago v. Mosley,408 U.S. 92, 95 (1972).
2 1 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
expressed. Indeed, both non-commercial speech and commercial speech are regulated by the
sign code in an overlapping manner. Non-commercial speech is more often expressed on
temporary signs such as election signs or yard signs, but those signs could also include
commercial speech, such as real estate signs. Similarly, permanent signs most likely include
copy with commercial speech, but digital signage makes it far more affordable to place a non-
commercial message in the mix.
The Reed court's apparent insistence on across-the-board content-neutrality has created a
vexing problem of whether and how a community can read a sign to regulate the standards that
are still permissible post-Reed, including on-premises and off-premises distinctions as
discussed below.
C. Off-Premises Signs Can be Regulated Differently than On-Premises Signs
The third speech distinction, on-premises messages versus off-premises messages, is also left
in a less than clear state following Reed. There a line of cases that have, for the past 30-plus
years, allowed communities to regulate off-premises signs differently than on-premises signs.
Which is, in consideration of the discussion above, a distinctly content-based regulatory criteria.
Without going into detail about how earlier U.S. Supreme Court decisions should be reconciled
in later cases, the facts that: 1)Reed is a non-commercial speech ruling, and 2)the Reed court
did not specifically overrule these cases should mean that the on-premises/off-premises
distinction is still good law in Washington and the Ninth Circuit. The Ninth Circuit's opinion in
Contest Promotions v. City and County of San Francisco, confirms this conclusion.4
This is not necessarily the end of the discussion, as there is some belief among legal
commentators that the Supreme Court will extend the stricter(non-commercial speech) level of
scrutiny to all types of speech when presented with the right set of facts in a future case.
Pasco's current sign code includes an on-premises/off-premises sign distinction. Some
communities, both before and after Reed, have decided that this distinction is not really
necessary or important and have adopted fully content-neutral sign codes. We can discuss
whether Pasco would like to choose to follow this approach.
III. Annotated Outline
In this section, we identify code changes necessary to bring the current regulations into
compliance with Reed. We have also proposed reorganizing the contents to better group the
revised content and make the overall code easier to use. The high-level outline looks like this:
Chapter 17.05: Purpose and Intent
Chapter 17.10: Definitions and Measurements
Chapter 17.15: Applicability and Permit Requirements
Chapter 17.20: Sign Allowances by Zone District
Chapter 17.25: Permanent, On-Premises Sign Standards
Chapter 17.30: Temporary Sign Standards
Chapter 17.35: Off-Premises Sign Standards
Chapter 17.40: Nonconforming Signs
4 874 F.3d 597 (2017)
3 1 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
Chapter 17.45: Construction Standards
Chapter 17.50: Maintenance and Abandonment
Chapter 17.55: Sign Permit Procedures
Chapter 17.60: Violations and Enforcement
Each chapter is described in more detail in this section.
A. Chapter 17.05: Purpose and Intent
1. Purpose of this Chapter
The Purpose and Intent chapter establishes the list of policy reasons that are the basis for
the City's regulation of signs. The ability to link sign regulation to reasonable and
compelling local interests serves three purposes: First Amendment law requires specific
policy reasons for the regulation of speech, identified policies provide baseline decision-
making criteria, and these policies are important to supporting the city's decision-making if
challenged.
2. Updated Regulations
This section will include revised and updated current Sections 17.05.010, Short Title;
17.05.020, Purpose; 17.05.040, Nonliability; 17.05.050, Conflicting Provisions; and
15.15.050, Sign Illustrations. Section 17.05.030, Enforcement, will be moved to new
Chapter 17.55, Violations and Enforcement.
Current Section 17.05.020, Purpose, identifies the three basic reasons that the United
States Supreme Court has identified (over multiple cases) as permissible for sign
regulation: traffic safety, community aesthetics, and to distinguish signage in areas of
different development character (e.g., residential or commercial). We will propose some
additional purposes that add nuance to the current purpose statements and support the
City's choices for the regulation of temporary signs, treatment of nonconforming signs, and
permissions granted for the use of off-premises signage.
We will also add a sign-specific severability clause. One goal of some legal challenges to
the sign code is to have the entire code found to be invalid, leaving the community without
sign regulations and potentially forcing the approval of signs that the community would not
otherwise permit. The goal of a sign-specific severability clause is to ensure that if any
provisions of the sign code are determined to be invalid, only those invalid portions of the
code are "severed" from the rest of the code.
This chapter will include the following sections:
a. Short Title
b. Purpose and Intent
c. Interests and Findings
d. Nonliability
e. Conflicting Provisions
f. Savings and Severability
3. Current Regulations
17.05.010 Shorttitle
4 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
This title shall be known as the sign code of the City of Pasco.
17.05.020 Purpose
The overall purpose of this title is
to enhance and maintain the aesthetic character,
to promote the public health, safety and general welfare, and
to increase the effectiveness of visual communication in the City.
This title is also intended to avoid visual clutter that may adversely impact traffic and
pedestrian safety or that may be adverse to property values, business opportunities,
and the City's overall appearance.
The purpose of this title is implemented by imposing reasonable restrictions on the design,
construction, use, maintenance and quality of materials of all signs and sign structures
without regard to the protected content with restrictions that are narrowly tailored to serve
these goals while leaving open ample alternative channels for communication of
information. Add detail.
17.05.030 Enforcement (move to enforcement section)
(1) Enforcing Authority. The City Manager or his appointee is authorized and directed to
enforce all provisions of this title.
(2) Violations and Penalties. It is unlawful and constitutes a civil infraction for any person,
firm, or corporation to erect, hang, construct, enlarge, alter, repair , move, convert, equip,
locate or relocate, use or maintain any sign or sign structure in the City, or cause or permit
the same to be done, contrary to or in violation of any of the provisions of this title.
17.05.040 Nonliability
This title shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the responsibility or liability of any
party owning, operating, constructing, installing, altering, removing, moving or controlling
any sign in the City. Neither the City nor any agent thereof shall be held as assuming any
liability by reason of permit or of the inspection authorized hereunder or certificate of
inspection issued by the City for damages to person or property injured or damaged either
in person or property caused by any defect therein.
17.05.050 Conflicting provisions
If any provision of this title is found to be in conflict with any provision of any zoning, building,
fire, safety or health ordinance or code of the City, the provision that establishes the more
restrictive standard shall prevail.
Add a sign-specific severability clause.
17.15.050 Sign illustrations
To assist in the application of this title, the Community and Economic Development
Department shall maintain a brochure of examples provided to illustrate the purpose,
design principles and format demonstrating permissible signs allowed in this title to assist
in the interpretation and enforcement of the sign code. [Ord. 3790 § 3, 2006; Code 1970
§ 17.05.050.]
5 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
B. Chapter 17.10: Definitions and Measurements
1. Purpose of this Chapter
Sign regulations rely on a long list of both industry-specific terms and planning terms that
identify where signs can be located. Sign regulation also relies on a shared understanding
of that is being regulated, which starts with clear definitions.
2. Updated Regulations
This section will include revised and updated current Section 17.10.010, Definitions along
with any additional definitions that might be currently located in the regulations. The
definitions will be revised to remove references to sign content, most of which is identified
in Part II of this Code Audit. Some sign types will also be renamed because the name of
the sign reflects the content, such as "construction sign"or"garage or yard sale sign." We
will add new definitions as necessary to support the content in the rest of the chapter.
We also recommend removing the measurement definitions from the definition section, or
collecting them from other sections of the code, such as the notes following the sign
allowance table, and creating a separate measurement section that also includes graphics
that illustrate the measurement approach. This
makes the measurements easier to find, easier to
interpret, and allows us to make sure the City has a
complete set of instructions for measurements. sign
rrojection.
This chapter will include the following sections:
Maximum
a. Interpretation sign
h. N Sign Area
b. Measurements
_ Minimum Clearance to
i. Signs Area Walk.
ii. Height and Clearance Sample sign measurement graphic
i. Separation
c. Definitions
3. Current Regulations
a. Grey highlights indicate content that will need to be changed post-Reed.
b. Are these definitions identical with the same term as used in other parts of the city
code? E.g., alley as used in the subdivision regulations or multiple tenant building as
used in the zoning code?
17.10.010 Generally
For the purpose of this title, certain abbreviations, terms, phrases, words, and their
derivatives shall be construed as specified in this chapter and are to be used only for the
implementation of this title. Words used in the singular include the plural, and the plural the
singular. Words used in the masculine gender include the feminine, and the feminine the
masculine.
Abandoned: add definition
"Alley" means a public street not designed for general travel and used primarily as a means
of access to the rear of residences and business establishments.
6 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
Average finished grade: add definition
"Building" means any structure built for the support, shelter, or enclosure of persons,
animals, chattels, or property of any kind.
"Building code" means the building codes of the City adopted by PMC Title 16.
"Building Official" means the Building Official of the City and/or the person designated to
enforce the sign code by the City Manager.
"Building line" means a line established by ordinance (zone district?) beyond which no
building may extend.
"Change of copy" means the change of a logo, and/or message upon the face or faces of
a legal sign.
"City" means the City of Pasco, Washington.
Clearance: move definition here from notes following sign allowance table: add instruction
to measurements.
"Community event" means a community-wide event open to the general public and
sponsored by a public agency, a public or private school, or a not-for-profit civic
organization.
Commercial speech: add definition
Copy: add definition
"Curb line" means the line at the face of the curb nearest to the street or roadway. In the
absence of a curb, the City Engineer shall establish the curb line.
Damaged: add definition
Destroyed: add definition
"Display surface" means the area made available by the sign structure for the purpose of
displaying the advertising message.
"District" or "zoning district' means any district established pursuant to the provisions of
PMC Title 25.
"Durable" means a nonbiodegradable material that withstands degradation from the
elements such as weatherproof card stock, aluminum, metal, UV-protected plastics,
treated or painted wood concrete, stone and similar materials. Looks more like a regulation
than a definition. Consider moving into design section of code.
"Erects" means to build, construct, attach, place, suspend, or affix, including the painting
of a wall sign.
"Face of building" means the general outer surface of any exterior wall of a building or other
structure.
"Facade" means the entire building front or street wall face, including the grade to the top
of the parapet or eaves, and the entire width of the building elevation. Does the sign code
distinguish face of building from facade?
"Fence—subdivision" means a common fence constructed along the rear line of residential
lots that back on arterial streets and constructed as part of the subdivision improvements.
7 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
"Filling station, public motor fuels" means any area of land, including any structure or part
thereof, that is used or designed to be used for the supply of motor fuels; also deemed to
be included within this term shall be: Any area or structure used or designed to be used for
polishing, greasing, washing, spraying (other than paint), dry cleaning, or otherwise
cleaning or servicing such motor vehicles. Can we leave the use definitions in the zoning
code and cross-reference?
Flag: add definition
"Frontage" means the measurement of the length of the property line or building front.
Measurement. Does the code specifv which measurement to use or should this be
standardized?
Gross floor area: add definition
"Hearing Examiner" means the Pasco Hearing Examiner as set forth in Chapter 25.195
PMC.
"Incombustible material" means any material which will not ignite at, or below, a
temperature of 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit during an exposure of five minutes, and which
will not continue to burn or glow at that temperature. Looks more like a regulation than a
definition. Consider moving into design section of code.
"Mansard roof' means a sloped roof or roof-like facade architecturally able to be treated
as a building wall.
"Multiple-building complex" means a group of commercial or industrial structures.
"Multiple-tenant building" means a single structure that houses more than one retail
business, office or commercial venture, but that does not include residential apartment
buildings sharing the same lot, access and/or parking facilities.
Noncommercial speech: add definition
"Nonconforming signs" are those which were lawfully installed, but which do not comply
with the requirements of this title. Sign— Nonconforming is also defined, consolidate to a
single definition.
"Nonstructural trim" means the molding, batons, caps, nailing strips, latticing, cutouts or
letters and walkways that are attached to the sign structure.
"Parapet" means a false front or wall extension above the roof line.
"Parcel" means the real property on which a business is located or the portion of real
property designated for use of a business. Parcel shall include all adjacent property used
by a business including yards, parking lots, and storage yards. Where more than one
business is located within a building, the property on which that building is located is
considered one parcel.
Pennant: add definition
"Perimeter" means a square or rectangle required to enclose the sign area. Measurement.
"Periphery of right-of-way" means that portion of the right-of-way lying behind the street
improvement. (See definition for"Street improvements.")
"Person"means and includes persons,firms, partnerships,associations, corporations, and
other business entities.
8 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
"Premises" means the real estate as a unit, upon which is displayed the sign or signs
mentioned in this chapter.
"Private road or driveway" means every way or place in private ownership and used for
travel of vehicles by the owner or those having express or implied permission from the
owner, but not by other persons.
"Projection" means the distance by which a sign extends over public property or beyond
the property line.
"Right-of-way(ROW)" means that area of land dedicated for public use or secured by the
public for purposes of ingress and egress to abutting property and other public purposes,
including that space between the adjacent property line and the back of the street and/or
sidewalk improvements.
"Roadway" means that portion of a highway improved, designed, or ordinarily used for
vehicular travel, exclusive of the sidewalk or shoulder. In the event a highway includes two
or more separated roadways, the term "roadway" shall refer to any such roadway
separately but shall not refer to all such roadways collectively.
"Roofline" means the top edge of a roof or parapet or the top line of a building silhouette.
Seasonal decorations: add definition
"Setback" means the distance measured on a horizontal plane between a public right-of-
way line or a property line and the closest portion of a sign thereto. Measurement
"Sidewalk" means that property between the curb lines or the lateral lines of a roadway and
the adjacent property, set aside and intended for the use of pedestrians, or such portion of
private property parallel and in proximity to a public highway and dedicated to use by
pedestrians.
"Sign" means a name, identification, description, display or illustration that is affixed to, or
represented directly or indirectly upon, a building, structure, or piece of land and that
directs attention to an object, product, place, activity,person, institution, organization or
business. However,a"sign"shall exclude any display of official court or public office notice,
emblem or insignia of a nation, political unit, school, or religious group. A "sign" shall not
include a sign located completely within an enclosed building unless the public may view
the sign from a roadway or sidewalk, or the context of this chapter shall so indicate.
"Sign, abandoned" means a sign that no longer correctly directs or exhorts any person nor
advertises a bona fide business, lessor, owner, product or activity conducted or available
on the premises whereon such sign is located.
"Sign area" means the total area of a sign visible from any one viewpoint or direction,
excluding the sign support structure, architectural embellishments, or framework that
contains no written copy, and includes only one side of a double-faced sign. Individual letter
signs using a wall as the background without added decoration or change in wall color shall
be calculated by measuring the perimeter enclosing each letter. The combined total area
of each individual letter shall be considered the total area of the sign. Module signs
consisting of more than one sign cabinet shall be computed by adding together the total
area of each module. Perimeter or sign area shall be established by the smallest rectangle
enclosing the extreme limits of the letter module or advertising message being measured.
Move to measurements.
9 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
"Sign—awning" means a sign that is hung from and below a building awning or canopy that
may extend outwards under the awning or canopy and over the walkway or parking area.
Is awning defined somewhere?
"Sign—banner"means flexible material on which a sign is painted or printed that is attached
to a building or displayed on the grounds.
"Sign — billboard" means a sign or sign structure supported by one or more uprights and
braces in the ground or on a building roof upon which general advertising matter is placed,
usually by the poster method, erected entirely upon private property. This needs to be
more_specific; most signs meet this definition.
"Sign—blade or projecting"means a sign that is wall-mounted perpendicular to the building
that may extend upwards and above the facade and/or outwards and over the walkway or
parking area.
"Sign — business" means a sign which directs attention to a business or profession
conducted,or to a commodity, service, or entertainment sold, or offered upon the premises
where such sign is located, or to which it is affixed.
"Sign—canopy" means a sign that is painted onto the face or edge of an awning or canopy
that is mounted to the building facade. Is canopy defined somewhere?
"Sign — changing message center" means an electronically controlled public service time
and temperature sign, message center, or readerboard where different copy changes of a
public service or commercial nature are shown on the same lamp bank. Are these
electronic message centers (EMCs) capable of full digital display or more like the smaller
readerboard signs that are typical for schools or religious institutions?
"Sign — combination" means any sign incorporating any combination of the features of
freestanding, projecting and roof signs. "Combination sign" shall include signs commonly
referred to as "fin signs." Illustrate
"Sign — community event regional" means a sign that identifies events occurring at a
regional sports/entertainment/convention/trade facility containing 60 or more acres located
within 1,000 feet of a freeway interchange and adjacent to a highway of statewide
significance. Interestingly specific—why the workaround?
"Sign —construction" means a temporary sign designating the contractor(s), architect(s),
and engineer(s) participating in a construction project underway on the same premises. A
construction sign may also include the name of the project.
"Sign—directional"means any sign designated and used solely for the purpose of indicating
the location or direction of a place on the premises upon which the sign is located.
"Sign —directional off-premises kiosk" means a structure erected by the City or a private
party through a license agreement with the City in approved locations bearing multiple off-
premises directional signs.
"Sign — directional traffic" means a sign that is located to guide or direct pedestrian or
vehicular traffic to parking entrances, exits and service areas.
"Sign —directory of tenants" means a sign that identifies the building or project name and
the tenants which share a single structure or development.
"Sign—double-faced" means a sign with two faces.
10 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
"Sign — electrical" means a sign or sign structure in which electrical wiring, connections,
and/or fixtures are used as part of the sign proper.
Sign—fin: add definition
"Sign —flashing" means an electrical sign or portion thereof that changes light intensity in
a sudden transitory burst or that switches on and off in a constant pattern with more than
one-third of the light source that is not constant being off at any one time.
"Sign — follow-through" means a sign which identifies the location of a business for the
purpose of participating in the Washington State Department of Transportation Motorist
Information Sign Program.
"Sign—freestanding pedestal" means a self-supported sign permanently attached directly
to the ground upon a pedestal base or monument foundation and not attached to any
building, wall or fence (also called pedestal or monument sign).
"Sign —freestanding pole" means a self-supported sign permanently attached directly to
the ground supported by upright poles or posts or braces placed on or in the ground (also
called ground or pole sign).
"Sign —freeway" means a freestanding sign located on the premises where the business,
product or service is located, with said sign being within 250 feet of 1-182, SR-395 or SR-
12.
"Sign —freeway interchange" means a sign that provides only regional identification for a
group of businesses within an area defined by a state-recognized business association
where the businesses collectively occupy a minimum of 15 acres of land. Does the City
control these signs or does WSDOT?
"Sign—garage or yard sale" means a sign advertising a private sale of personal household
possessions; not for the use of any commercial venture.
"Sign height" means the vertical distance measured from the adjacent grade at the base
of the sign support to the highest point of the sign or sign structure, whichever is higher.
Measurement
"Sign — identification" means a sign of an informational nature that directs attention to
certain uses other than businesses, individual private residences.
"Sign — inflatable" means a large balloon or balloon-like object greater than 18 inches in
any dimension that uses blown air or a gas to remain inflated.
"Sign — informational private" means a sign placed for the convenience of the property
owner used for the sole purpose of designating property control and warning signs such as
"no trespassing," "no dumping," "patrolled by dogs," etc.
"Sign — informational public" means a sign placed for the convenience of the public used
for the sole purpose of designating restrooms, hours of operations, entrances and exits to
buildings and parking lots, help wanted, public telephones, public notary,etc.Also included
are plaques, tablets or inscriptions that are an integral part of a building.
"Sign — interior" means any sign attached to the interior surface of the window of any
building or structure, or maintained within the building or structure. How does underlined
section work with window sign definition?
11 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
"Sign—landmark" means a sign or plaque that is attached to the surface of the building or
on a site that identifies or describes the historical, cultural, social, or other significance of a
building or site.
Sian—light projection: add definition
"Sign — limited duration" means any sign advertising real estate sales or rentals or
construction projects utilized for a specified period of time.
"Sign, marquee or readerboard" means a sign that displays a changing message using
manually mounted lettering or electronic printout that may be mounted on a building or
freestanding pedestal or pole.
"Sign, marquee or readerboard—portable" means a sign that displays a changing message
using manually mounted lettering or electronic printout that may be mounted on an easel,
trailer, or other movable eauir)ment.
Sign—moving billboard: add definition
"Sign — nameplate" means a sign which indicates no more than the name and address of
the resident of the premises.
"Sign—nonconforming" means any sign lawfully constructed prior to the enactment of the
ordinance codified in this title, which fails to conform to the provisions of this title.
"Sign—off-premises" means a sign that carries a message of any kind or directs attention
to a business, commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold, or offered elsewhere
than upon the premises where such sign is located, or to which it is affixed. Signs identifying
a business complex and containing the names of multiple businesses within the complex
shall not be considered an off-premises sign.
"Sign — off-premises directional" means a sign providing directions to a public or other
community event or facility in a location different than the property on which the sign is
posted.
"Sign — off-premises informational" means a sign providing information about events
conducted at a public or other community facility in a location different than the property
on which the sign is posted.
Sign—on-premises: add definition
Sign—on vehicle: add definition
"Sign—open house" means a sign welcoming viewers to a piece of residential real estate
that is being offered for sale.
"Sign — pedestrian-oriented" means a sign the primary purpose of which is to provide
information for pedestrians and bicyclists.
"Sign — political" means a temporary sign that identifies a candidate(s) for public elective
office; urges a particular vote on a ballot measure in a pending public election, whether
local, state or national; or expresses an opinion on a public issue.
"Sign — portable" means an unlighted business sign, including paper, cardboard, wood or
metal, that is capable of being moved easily and that is not permanently affixed to the
ground, structure or building. This includes a sidewalk or sandwich board signs, except
those worn by a person.
12 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
"Sign — poster" means a decorative placard or advertisement intended to advertise a
movie, theater production, video or CD, or other product or special event that is being
conducted or offered for sale.
"Sign—readerboard" means a lighted or unlighted business sign or part of a sign on which
the letters are readily replaceable such that the copy can be changed from time to time at
will.
"Sign—readerboard, portable" means a lighted or unlighted business sign or part of a sign
on which the letters are readily replaceable such that the copy can be changed from time
to time at will. A portable readerboard is capable of being moved or trailer mounted and is
not permanently affixed to the ground, structure or building.
"Sign — real estate" means a temporary sign erected by the owner, or his/her agent, that
advertises the real estate upon which the sign is located for rent, lease or sale, or directing
people to the property.
"Sign—real estate directional" means a temporary and/or portable sign that is intended to
assist people finding the location of difficult-to-locate property that is for sale, rent,or lease.
"Sign—revolving" means any sign that rotates or turns in a circular motion by electrical or
mechanical means and does not exceed eight revolutions per minute.
Sign—required: add definition
"Sign—roof' means a business sign erected upon or above a roof or parapet of a building
or structure. Mansard roof signs shall be considered wall signs.
"Sign — sandwich board or A-frame" means a temporary portable two-faced board-style
sign that is readily movable and has no permanent attachment to a building, structure, or
the ground.
"Sign—special event" means a temporary sign advertising activities concerning a drive or
event of a political, civic, seasonal, cultural, philanthropic, educational or religious event or
organization that will occur intermittently.
"Sign structure" means any structure supporting or capable of supporting any sign defined
in this chapter. A sign structure may be a single pole or may or may not be an integral part
of the building or structure.
"Sign — temporary" means any real estate, open house, special event, garage sale, or
political sign corresponding to a specific event and displayed for a limited period of time.
"Sign—tract" means signs used for the sale of real property in a platted subdivision.
"Sign—wall" means any sign, mural or graphic design which is attached parallel to, or flat
against, or is painted on, the wall or exterior of a building or structure having a commercial
message or identification.
"Sign—wall mural or artwork" means a mural or artwork painted on a building wall that may
or may not have a commercial message, name, or other advertisement incorporated.
(Exterior surface color alone is not considered a mural or artwork.)
"Sign—wall mounted" means a sign attached or erected parallel to and extending from the
facade or wall of any building to which it is attached. A wall sign is supported through its
entire length with the exposed face of the sign parallel to the plane of said wall or facade.
13 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
A sign painted on the wall of a building or a sign painted or attached to a marquee shall be
considered a wall-mounted sign.
Sign—walker: add definition
Sign—wind: add definition
"Sign — window" means any sign which is painted or mounted onto an exterior window
pane, or which is hung directly inside the window, including advertisements for services or
products in the form of decals, emblems, paint, exposed neon, banners, etc., within three
feet of the window pane.
"Sign — window, temporary indoor" means any sign (or poster) of a temporary nature
displayed within a commercial building on the inside of the glass or in close proximity to the
window and may be viewed by persons outside of the building. How do you determine if
the sian is temporary or permanent (or permanently temporary like rotatina temporary
signs)?
Sian—yard: add definition
Spacing: move definition here (currently in sign allowance table notes)
"Street" means a public or private way open to general public use including all classes of
roadways and excepting alleys, driveways, and interstate freeways, but including major
internal circulation corridors within parking lots.
"Street frontage" means the side of the building facing a street that abuts the property on
which the building is located.
"Street improvements"means the paved roadway,and adjoining curb,gutter, sidewalk and
landscaping.
"Structure" means anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires location on
the ground or attachment to something having location on the ground.
Tenant: add definition
"U.L." means Underwriters Laboratory.
Zone, Zoning District. See definition under"District."
C. Chapter 17.15: Applicability and Permit Requirements
1. Purpose of this Chapter
The Applicability and Permit Requirements chapter establishes the presumption that signs
are subject to the sign code and required to be permitted unless the sign type is expressly
exempt from regulation. This chapter will clearly identify which sign types and locations are
subject to the sign code standards and which are not.
2. Updated Regulations
We will carry forward and update the following current sections into this chapter:
17.15.030, Exempt Signs, and 17.15.040, Prohibited Signs, which we will divide into
prohibited signs and prohibited sign locations. We will also move some of the locational
requirements in Chapter 17.25, General Regulation, into this chapter. There may also be
exemptions and prohibitions located elsewhere in the sign code text and we will relocate
14 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
all of those provisions to the appropriate section. We will add a provision that a sign permit
is required unless a sign, item, or activity is exempt from the permitting process.
While we are limiting references to sign content in the updated regulations, there are some
types of content that are subject to regulation because of the impact of the speech, such
as graphics that are harmful to minors. We will identify the topics that remain subject to
City regulation.
This chapter will include the following sections:
a. Sign Permit Required
b. Exemptions
i. Internal and Integral Signs
ii. Public Signs
c. Prohibited Locations
d. Prohibited Signs
e. Prohibited Content
3. Current Regulations
17.15.030 Exempt signs
The following signs shall not require application, fee or sign permit. These exceptions shall
not be construed as relieving the owner of the sign from responsibility for its erection, and
its compliance with provisions of this code or any other law or ordinance regulating the
same:
(1) Changing of the advertising copy or message on theater marquees, readerboards,
and similar signs. Exempt activity, not a sign
(2) Painting, repainting, cleaning, repairing and other normal maintenance, unless
structural or electrical changes are made. Exempt activity. Should specify that replacing a
static sign with an electronic sign is not normal maintenance.
(3) Signs erected or installed by or at the direction of the City, such as traffic signs, legal
notices, railroad warning signs, signs showing the location of underground public utility
facilities, and other signs of a nonadvertising nature erected for warning or emergency
purposes. This becomes the category of"required signs."
(4) Interior signs; provided, that no interior sign shall be permitted in the R-T, R-S-20, R-
S-12, R-S-1, R-1 and R-2, R-3, R-4, R-1-A and R-1-A2 zoning districts.
(5) Temporary signs and decorations that are customary for special holidays and that are
erected on private property.
(6) Signs directly related to a municipal building, structure or installed by the City or
required by a governmental entity. Public or required signs.
(7) Bona fide religious symbols on the buildings or grounds of religious institutions.
(8) Traffic or pedestrian control signs, signs required by law, or signs indicating scenic or
historic points of interest that are erected by or on the order of a public officer in the
performance of his public duty.
15 I Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
(9) Sculptures, fountains, mosaics, and design features that do not incorporate
advertising or identification.
(10) The flags of governments or noncommercial institutions such as schools, with the
poles treated as structures.
(11) Official public notices of federal, state or local governments, official court notices.
Required signs
(12) Signs not intended to be viewed by the public from the street right-of-way.
(13) Lettering or symbols painted directly onto or flush-mounted magnetically onto an
operable vehicle. Update to reflect technology changes
(14) Identification signs upon recycling collection containers for public, charitable or
nonprofit organizations.
(15) Emblems of local nonprofit organizations and community service clubs, including
signs less than two square feet that identify the meeting place and time.
(16) Political signs. [Ord. 3790§ 3, 2006; Code 1970 § 17.05.030.]
17.15.040 Prohibited signs
From and after September 1, 2006, it is unlawful for any person to maintain, erect or place
within the City:
(1) A swinging projecting sign; Move to projecting sign standards
(2) Signs attached to or placed upon a vehicle or trailer parked on private or public
property designed to operate as a de facto permanent advertising sign. This provision is
not to be construed as prohibiting the identification of a firm or its principal products on a
vehicle operating during the normal course of business. This does not include automobile
for sale signs or signs attached to licensed buses or taxis; Prohibited location.
(3) Private signs placed in or upon a public right-of-way, except as expressly provided
herein; Prohibited location.
(4) Any sign that constitutes a traffic hazard or detriment to traffic safety because of size,
location, movement, content, or method of illumination. Any sign that obstructs the vision
of drivers or detracts from the visibility of any official traffic control device or diverts or tends
to divert the attention of drivers of moving vehicles away from traffic movement on streets,
roads, intersections, or access facilities. No sign shall be erected so that it obstructs the
vision of pedestrians, or which by its glare or by its method of illumination constitutes a
hazard to traffic. No sign may use words, phrases, symbols or characters in such a manner
as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse the steady and safe flow of traffic; Split into
prohibited signs and prohibited locations.
(5) Any sign or advertising structure or supporting structure that is torn, damaged,
defaced or destroyed; Maintenance.
(6) Signs attached to utility poles, trees, rocks or other natural features; Prohibited
location.
(7) Signs attached to subdivision fences; Prohibited location.
(8) Signs attached to benches on public rights-of-way; Prohibited location.
16 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
(9) Billboards and product advertising signs; roof signs, including signs painted directly
on a sloped or gabled roof surface; strobe lights, lasers; strings of streamers; and all other
signs not otherwise specifically authorized or exempted by this chapter; Multiple ideas in
one regulation, separate.
(10) Off-premises signs except those expressly permitted herein;
(11) Balloons or inflatables attached, anchored or tethered to a roof of a building. [Ord.
3790 § 3, 2006; Code 1970 § 17.05.040.]
17.25.020 Fire exits.
No sign or any portion thereof shall be anchored to, or attached to, or supported by any
fire escape or any standpipe, or erected so as to obstruct or prevent the free ingress and
egress from any window, door or fire escape. [Ord. 3790 § 5, 2006; Code 1970 §
17.09.020.]
17.25.030 Traffic obstruction and visibility.
No sign shall be erected so as to obstruct the vision of vehicular traffic, or at any location
where it may interfere with, or be confused with, any traffic signal or device. No sign or sign
structure shall be erected within the vision triangle of a corner lot property measured (20
feet along the property line from the intersection of two streets or 15 feet from the
intersection of a street and alley). [Ord. 3790§ 5, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.09.030.]
17.25.070 Projection over public property.
Signs supported entirely on private property may extend into the public right-of-way as set
forth in the Sign Allowance Table (PMC 17.15.010); provided, that in no event shall any
sign be permitted to extend beyond the curb line. In the absence of a curb, the curb line
shall be established by the City Engineer. [Ord. 3790§ 5, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.09.070.]
17.25.090 Clearance from power lines.
No sign shall be constructed or maintained which would have less horizontal or vertical
clearance from communications lines or electric power lines than the clearance prescribed
by the Electrical Construction Code of the Washington State Department of Labor and
Industries. In case of conflict, the most restrictive shall apply. Whenever it becomes
necessary for workmen to be less than 10 feet from any electrical conductor carrying more
than 600 volts, the sign contractor shall notify the proper utility company to provide a
standby service crew. [Ord. 3790 § 5, 2006; Code 1970 § 17.09.090.]
17.25.100 Aerial power source.
No aerial or overhead power source shall be allowed for any type of sign. [Ord. 3790 § 5,
2006; Code 1970§ 17.09.100.]
17.25.060 Property owner's consent.
It is unlawful for any person to place, attach or maintain any sign, banner, card, sticker,
handbill or other advertising device upon or within any property, whether public or private,
without securing the consent of the owner or their tenant. [Ord. 3790 § 5, 2006; Code
1970§ 17.09.060.]
17.25.080 Relocation required. (this section might be moved to violation and
enforcement?)
The Building Official may,on 30 days'written notice, by reason of changed traffic conditions
or the construction or relocation of public improvements or otherwise, find that a private
sign that extends over or maintained on a public property must be relocated. The person
17 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
maintaining such sign must remove, relocate or alter the sign in accordance with the
Building Official's finding at their sole expense. [Ord. 3790 § 5, 2006; Code 1970 §
17.09.080.]
D. Chapter 17.20: Sign Allowances by Zone District
1. Purpose of this Chapter
The Sign Allowances by Zone District chapter identifies which sign types are permitted in
which districts along with relevant district-specific restrictions such as maximum height or
required spacing.
2. Updated Regulations
This chapter will include Section 17.15.010, Interpretation of Sign Allowance Table, and
some standards from 17.15.020,Special Provisions by Sign Classification;the rest of which
will be moved to the temporary sign standards chapter. We anticipate renaming some of
the signs currently identified in the sign allowance table and we will need to make change
to the table to accommodate updated approaches to both permanent and temporary signs.
As we think about renaming current signs, we will need to discuss whether to identify them
by sign type (e.g., a directory sign can become a wall sign or freestanding sign), by
associated use (e.g., commercial uses may be allocated additional sign area for incidental
signs that were previously "informational public" signs), or by location (e.g., directional
signs might become access point signs).
The Sign Allowance Table in Section 17.15.010 is a really impressive table in terms of the
amount of content it includes, but we think it might also be somewhat difficult for an
infrequent code user to decipher and understand. While not necessary to make the table
Reed-compliant, we'd also recommend simplifying the table to make it easier to use. This
can include relocating out some of the repetitive content, such as"permit requirement"and
"material restrictions,"and placing this information in sections with similar information,such
as applicability or on-premises permanent sign standards. To make the remaining
information easier to navigate, we suggest breaking the single, large table into several
smaller tables by zone district groups. These changes may also be useful to lay the
groundwork for the Phase 2 of the sign code update.
This is a sample table using this approach from another community:
Table11 • Signs
Height Sign Area Additional
Sign Type Number per Sign Illumination
(Max.,ft.) (max.,sf.) Standards
1 per Lower 1/3 25°x6 of 27-904.6,Awning
Awning awning of awning signable area External Signs
of awningg
Canopy 1 per 24 in.above External or 27-904.6, Canopy
canopy canopy Internal Signs
Projecting 1 per street Same as 48 External or 27-904.6,
frontage wall [1] Internal Projecting Signs
Wall 1 per street Same as External or 27-904.6,Wall
frontage wall [1] 32 Internal Signs
18 1 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
Table 27-900.6: • Signs
Sign Area
Sign Type Number Height per Sign Illumination Additional
(max.,ft.) Standards
(max., sf.)
Same as External or 27-904.13,Wall
Wall,Tenant 1 per tenant wall [1] 4 Internal Signs
Notes:
[1] May not project above wall on which located
And this is a sample table identifying the maximum amount of temporary signage permitted
by zone district from another community:
Table 18-172.1:Temporary Signage Permitted by District
Sign Type
ZoneDistrict Land Use StandardsDuration
Yard Banner A-Frame Portable
Residential
Number, max 2
All/R/and Single-Family Sign Area,sf max
HD-R detached and (per sign) 6 n/a n/a n/a 30 days
attached
Height,ft max 6
Number, max 2 1 per street
frontage
Sign Area,sf max 6 16 n/a
All MF and (per sign)
MHP Multifamily Height,ft max 6 g n/a 30 days
Sign Area,sf max 6 32 35
(per sign)
Height,ft max 1 6 10 1 6
This chapter will include the following sections:
a. Residential Districts
i. Applicability
ii. Maximum Total Permitted Sign Area
iii. Summary Tables: Attached Signs, Freestanding Signs, Temporary Signs
b. Office, Commercial, and Industrial Districts
L Applicability
ii. Maximum Total Permitted Sign Area
iii. Summary Tables: Attached Signs, Freestanding Signs, Temporary Signs
c. Area-Specific Sign Regulations
This will be a holding space for Phase 2.
19 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
d. Structure and Use-Specific Sign Regulations
As we discuss the various ways to revise the current standards to accommodate Reed,
we may decide that some sign standards should be structure or use specific. Good
example of this are gas stations or a hospital campus. It appears that the current
community event regional signs, for example, are a sign category that could be
converted to structure specific regulations:
17.35.080 Community event regional signs.
(1) Community event regional signs are permitted on public or private property within
1,200 feet of the facility property. Community event regional signs shall not be more
than 200 square feet per face; shall contain only two faces, shall not be greater than
50 feet in height and shall be a single pole mount system. Said pole shall be painted
gray, tan, light brown or other neutral color as approved by the Community and
Economic Development Director.
(2) Community event regional signs shall only be used for advertising events and
activities at the facility and/or noncommercial events of community-wide interest. [Ord.
3909 § 2, 2009; Ord. 3790 § 7, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.13.080.]
3. Current Regulations
17.15.010 Interpretation of sign allowance table
(1) The sign allowance table, as incorporated herein, determines whether a specific sign is
allowed in a zone district or by land use activity. The zone district or land use activity is
identified in the left column and the specific sign allowances are located in the rows of the
table.
(2) If no symbol or number appears in the table box at the intersection of the column and
row, the sign is not allowed in that category or is not subject to an allowance.
(3) If a number appears in the table box at the intersection of the column and row or in the
column or row heading, the sign may be allowed subject to the appropriate requirement
and specific conditions indicated in the table footnotes.
(4) All applicable requirements shall govern a sign whether or not the requirements are
cross-referenced in the table.
. -
Permit requirement
I Material restrictions
I Number of signs
I I I Allowable surface area in sq.ft.(1)
I I I I Height in feet(2)
I I 1 1 1 Projection over ROW to curb line
I I I I I I Spacing in linear feet(3)
I I I I I I Visible ground plane/passage area(4)
I I I I I I I Setback from adjacent property
line
I I 1 1 1 1 1 I I Setback from ROW in feet(5)
I I ( I I I I I I I
I I ( I I I I I I I Duration(days)
I I I I I I I I I I I Notes
all zones
20 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
Sign Allowance Table
Permit requirement
Material restrictions
Number of signs
Allowable surface area in sq.ft.(1)
I Height in feet(2)
I I 1 1 1 Projection over ROW to curb line
I I I I I I Spacing in linear feet(3)
I I 1 1 I Visible ground plane/passage area(4)
11 I I I I Setback from adjacent property
line
I 1 I I I I I I Setback from ROW in feet(5)
I I I i l l I I I I
I I I I I I I I i I Duration(days)
I I I I I I I I I I I Notes
I I I I I I I L I I I I
entry/exit freestanding yes durable 1 4 4 5 v per eXiventry
pedestal/pole sign
landmark wall sign/plaque yes durable 1 10 181 1 5 0 per building
frontage
informational-private wall sign no durable 1 2 8 1 5 0 per building
(6) frontage
freestanding no durable 1 6 4 5 0 per street frontage
pedestal/pole sign
informational-public wall sign no durable 1 2 8 5 0 per building
frontage
freestanding no durable 1 6 4 5 0 per street frontage
pedestal/pole sign
Permanent signs
Residential districts-RT,R-S-20,R-S-12,R-S-1,R-1,RFAH-1/1A,R-2,R-3,R-4,RMHP
identification-dwelling wall sign no durable 1 2 18 5 0 per property
unit freestanding no durable 1 2 4 1 5 0 per property
pedestal/pole sign
identification-bldg wall sign yes durable 1 24 120� 5 0 per building
complex frontage
freestanding yes durable 1 24 1 4 5 0 per street frontage
pedestal/pole sign
daycare facility wall sign yes durable 1 1 16 �201 5 0 per building
commercial frontage
freestanding yes durable 1 1 16 15 5 0 per street frontage
pedestal/pole sign
school/religious use(15)wall sign yes durable 1 1 24 1201 5 0 per building
frontage
freestanding yes durable 1 1 40 15 5 0 per street frontage
pedestal/pole sign
freestanding yes durable 1 24 15 5 0 per street frontage
marquee/readerboard
sign
Office/commercial districts-O,C-1,C-2,C-3,C-R,BP,1-1,1-2,1-3 Composite allowance-all sign surfaces
maximum per sign window sign(11) no transparent na 25%1151
per building/street awning sign per yes durable 1 24 15(2) 8 may extend over
frontage business walkway
canopy sign yes maintained na 25%24(2) 8 may extend over
walkway
21 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
:Sign Allowance Table
Permit requirement
Material restrictions
Number of signs
I I Allowable surface area in sq.ft.(1)
i 1 Height in feet(2)
I I I I 1 Projection over ROW to curb line
I I I I i l Spacing in linear feet(3)
I I I I I Visible ground plane/passage area(4)
I I I I I I I I Setback from adjacent property
line
I I I I I I I I I Setback from ROW in feet(5)
I I I I I I I I I I
I I I I I I I I I I Duration(days)
I I I I I I I I I I I Notes
I I I I I I I I I
wall sign yes durable na125-oInal14 0
wall sign- yes maintained na 25%na 0 of commercial
murals/artwork(7) message
blade/projecting sign yes durable 1 125(2)(2) 5 0
freestanding pedestal yes durable 1 350 11 0 5 0
sign
*freestanding yes durable 1 48 15 5 0 per street frontage
marquee/readerboard
sign
*freestanding pole- yes durable 1 12 1351 0 6 5 0 up to 12 tenants
tenant directory sign per sign
*freestanding pole yes durable 1 �3101351 0 6 5 0
sign
off-premises yes durable 1 515 5 0
directional sign(14)
Commercial/industrial districts-C-3,C-R,BP,1-1,1-2,1-3
maximum per sign freeway sign yes durable 1 13501701 500 6 1 35 1 35 per freeway
frontage
per freeway or freeway yes durable 1 1480170 500 6 1 35 35 per 15-acre site
interchange(9)sign minimum
frontage property and freeway yes durable 1 15035 500 6 35 35 per 15-acre site
readerboard(9)sign I I minimum
Undeveloped property
Residential-lot freestanding yes durable 1 24 1811 1 5 1 0 1 15 after closing
pedestal/pole sign
-tract freestanding yes durable 1 60 181 1 5 1 0 15 after last closing
pedestal/pole sign
Commercial-lot freestanding yes durable 1 24 181 5 0 15 after closing
pedestal/pole sign
-tract freestanding yes durable 1 60 8 5 0 15 after closing
pedestal/pole sign
Construction wall/banner sign yes durable 1 24 8 5 0 Iconstl
freestanding yes durable 1 32 8 5 0 const
pedestal/pole sign
Real estate sales/rentals per building or property
Residential zones window/poster sign Incil1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 15 after closing
22 1 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
Sign Allowance . -
Permit requirement
Material restrictions
Number of signs
Allowable surface area in sq.ft.(1)
1 I I Height in feet(2)
I I 1 1 1 Projection over ROW to curb line
I I I I I I Spacing in linear feet(3)
Visible ground plane/passage area(4)
I I I I I I I 1 Setback from adjacent property
line
I 1 I 1 1 i 1 1 Setback from ROW in feet(5)
I I 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
I I I I I I I I I I Duration(days)
I I 1 1 1 1 1 I I I I Notes
I I I I I I I
freestanding no durable 1 6 8 5 0 15 after closing
pedestal/pole sign
(10)
freestanding sign(10) no durable 2 2 81 5 0 15 after closing
Commercial zones(12) window/poster sign no 1 2 0 15 after closing
wall/banner sign no durable 1 6 20 5 0 15 after closing
freestanding no durable 1 6 8 5 0 15 after closing
pedestal/pole sign(9)
Temporary signs
Open house-real sandwich-directional no durable 4 6 4 5 0 after event
estate sales (10)
sandwich-site(10) nol durable 1 1 6 14 1 1 1 5 0 1 lafter event
Special event-sales,charities,etc.
Schools,churches, sandwich-directional no durable 4 6 4 1 5 0 after event
parks,farmers mkt, (10)
Xmas trees sandwich-site(10) no durable 1 6 14 1 5 0 after event
window poster no na 50%1 after event
window banner no durable 1 16 1 0 after event
wall sign/banner no durable 1 64 120 5 0 after event
banner-mounted no durable 1 10 120(2) 8 5 0 after event
freestanding pole
marquee/readerboard no durable 1 18 4 5 0 after event
-portable
balloons(12) no biodegradable 15 1201 1 5 after event
Residential zones sandwich-directional no durable 2 6 4 5 0 after event
(10)
sandwich-site(10) no durable 1 6 41 5 0 I after event
Commercial zones sandwich-directional no durable 2 6 4 5 0 after event
(10)
sandwich-site(10) no durable 1 1 6 14 5 0 after event
window poster no na150%J after event
window banner no durable 1 16 1 0 after event
wall sign/banner no durable 1 64 20 5 0 after event
banner-mounted no durable 1 16 20(2) 8 5 0 after event
freestanding pole
marquee/readerboard no durable 1 18 4 5 0 after event
-portable
23 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
Sign Allowance Table
Permit requirement
Material restrictions
I Number of signs
I I Allowable surface area in sq.ft.(1)
I I I I Height in feet(2)
I I 1 Projection over ROW to curb line
I I I I I I Spacing in linear feet(3)
I I I I I I 1 Visible ground plane/passage area(4)
I I I I I I Setback from adjacent property
line
I I I I I I I I I Setback from ROW in feet(5)
I I I I I I I I I I
I I I I I I I I I I Duration(days)
I I I I I I I I I I I Notes
I I
balloons(12) no biodegradable 15 201 1 5 after event
inflatables(13) yes nonflammable 1 350701 250 5 0 after event
SR-12/395 and 1-182 inflatables(13) yes nonflammable 1 350701 150050 after event
Political(16) freestanding no durable na 6 4 5 0 10 after election
* Freestanding signs are not allowed within the downtown overlay zone.
1 The area within a continuous perimeter enclosing the outer limits of the sign face, but not including
structural elements, which are not a part of the display. The area of a two-sided sign equals the area
of one side. The area of a spherical, cubical, or polyhedral sign equals 1/2 the total surface area.
Move to measurements.
2 Height: measured from the average finished grade at the sign foundation. Move to measurements.
Awning signs shall be at least 8 and no more than 16 feet above the walkway. Move to permanent,
on- remises signs, awning sign.
Blade/projecting signs shall not extend more than 10 feet above the building facade or 6 feet from
the face of the building. Move to permanent, on-premises signs, projecting sign.
3 Spacing: the linear distance between signs in feet. Add to definitions and measurements.
4 The area under the sign that shall be free of obstructions to allow passage of pedestrians and
vehicles. Add to definitions and measurements.
5 Setback: shall be that portion of any sign or sign structure that is closest to the property line. Delete,
already defined.
6 Private informational signs must be for an original purpose and may not simply repeat the same
message over and over.
7 Artwork shall not detract from appearance of other buildings in the immediate vicinity. Let's talk
about how this provision works.
8 On private property adjacent to an arterial road: not within 100 feet of a public street intersection,
300 feet of a residential district,within 250 feet of a freestanding sign of 200 sf of display area. Where
applicable?
9 Freeway interchange signs must be located within 1,000 feet of an interchange, and 300 feet of
ROW, on site of business on a minimum 15-acre site.
24 1 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
10 Square feet per one face of a two-sided sandwich board. Move to measurements.
11 Window signs may include credit card logos and advertise hours of operation and address.
12 Balloons shall be no larger than 18 inches in diameter, not attached to a roofline. Move to
temporary sia.ns, balloons
13 Inflatables shall be securely anchored to the ground and not create a traffic or other hazard in the
event of deflation. Move to temporary signs, inflatables
Inflatables shall be measured by square feet of surface volume. Move to measurements.
14 Off-premises directional signs shall be of the material, color, lettering font, and structure specified
by the Building Official. This is very discretionary, consider adding more obi ctive criteria.
15 Excepting Pasco High School Bulldogs stadium sign. Either add stadium sign standards or
consider this an exempt sign because it is not intended for external viewing.
16 Campaign signs on private property are limited to 32 square feet in size.
[Ord. 3865 § 1, 2008; Ord. 3790 § 2, 2006; Code 1970 § 17.05.010.]
E. Chapter 17.25: On-Premises, Permanent Sign Standards
1. Purpose of this Chapter
We use this chapter to help code users identify the different types of permanent, on-
premises signs — including those that have been renamed to comply with Reed - and to
collect the repetitive standards related to those signs in a single location.
2. Updated Regulations
This chapter will include information from the sign allowance table and table notes. As we
draft this section, we anticipate that it will also clarify commonly applied standards that are
not specified in the current sign code and placeholders for specific standards that will be
established in Phase 2 of the sign code update.
This is an example of on-premises, permanent sign standards from another community:
C. Awning or Attached Canopy Signs
1 Any awning or attached canopy protecting into any city right-of-way shall require an
encroachment agreement.
2. All awning and attached canopy signs shall have a minimum clearance of nine feet over
any pedestrian use area.
I 3. Above-canopy signage may extend up to 18 inches vertically above the ton of the canopy
to which it is attached. Above-canopy signage is not considered roof signage.
4 Signs that are attached below a canopy, awning, overhang or porch roof shall not extend
beyond the width of such canopy, awning, overhang, or porch roof and shall have a
clearance of not less than nine feet above the pedestrian walkway and shall not exceed
three square feet in area. The ,awning or canopy must meet all state building code
requirements for height and method of attachment_
5_ Signs on freestanding,structural canopies,such as a stand-alone canopy over gas pumps,
are regulated in Section 27-715.F,
25 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
Fg,2?-715A Satopp imacros of Awning Signs
Fig.27-715.8:Sample Images of Canopy Signs
_ !..•,!.lme III+I!
Al
This chapter will include the following sections:
a. Attached Signs
b. Freestanding Signs
c. Electronic Message Centers
d. Generally Applicable Standards
F. Chapter 17.30: Temporary Sign Standards
1. Purpose of this Chapter
Similar to Chapter 17.20, On-Premises, Permanent Sign Standards, this chapter will be the
place where we collect all of the generally applicable and repetitive standards related to
limited duration and temporary signs.
2. Updated Regulations
This chapter will include provisions from the sign allocation table and Section 17.15.020,
Special Provision by Sign Classification.
Many of the sign types affected by the Reed decision are temporary signs. This is because
most temporary signs are named after their purpose, such as real estate signs or political
signs. We will bring these signs into conformance with Reed by reorganizing them as
temporary sign types and then linking the sign type to a use, permit, or event. For example,
real estate signs become yard signs that are permitted when there is an active real estate
listing on the property. To update this section, we will need to discuss:
a. How to combine limited duration and temporary signs,
b. Which uses, events, and permits will have associated temporary signage,
c. How to allocate signage to unanticipated events, and
26 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
d. What types of temporary signage (banner, yard sign, a-frame/sandwich board,
portable, wind, balloon) will be allocated to which use, event, or permit?
Recent caselaw also includes a handful of courts who have held that communities need to
allow some type of signage for personal comment/protest messages in residential districts.
We will review these cases and determine how Pasco wants to proceed with applicable
temporary sign regulations or through the creation of a non-commercial speech code
section that identifies all of the opportunities available to community members for
expressing non-commercial messages.
This chapter will include the following sections:
a. Temporary Sign Purposes
e. Location and Off-Premises Permission
f. Generally Applicable Standards
g. Sign Type Standards
h. Special and Temporary Event Signs (this might also be included in the district-specific
standards; we'll discuss the best location)
i. Substitution for Damaged Permanent Signs
3. Current Regulations
17.15.020 Special provisions by sign classification
(1) Temporary Signs. This signage shall not be restricted by content, but is usually and
customarily used to advertise real estate sales, political or ideological positions, garage
sales, or special events having a specific date or duration. Such signage shall be subject
to the following provisions:
(a) All exterior real estate signs shall be placed entirely on the property for sale,
except as provided below.
(b) Residential "open house" signs are permitted only during daylight hours and
during times in which the broker/agent or seller or an agent is in attendance at the
property for sale.The sign may be placed within the periphery of the roadway provided
it does not interfere with traffic safety as provided in PMC 17.15.040(4)and 17.25.030,
but it shall not be attached to a utility pole or traffic safety device. Such signs shall be
permitted only during weekends beginning at 5:00 p.m. Friday and ending at 8:00 a.m.
Monday.
(c) Political signs may be placed within the periphery of the public roadway provided
they do not interfere with traffic, vehicular or pedestrian, as provided in PMC
17.15.040(4)and 17.25.030, or interfere with the use of any residential or commercial
property. Political signs may be placed upon privately owned property including
fences, except subdivision fences, with the consent of the property owner.
(d) Grand Opening and Special Event Displays. Temporary signs, posters, portable
readerboards, banners, strings of lights, clusters of flags, blinking lights, inflatables,
balloons, and searchlights are permitted only to announce the opening of a completely
new enterprise, the opening of an enterprise under new management, or a special
event.
27 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
(i) All banners must be securely fastened taut against the wall of a building and
shall not extend above the building.
(ii) Tethered balloons and inflatables cannot be more than 70 feet above the
surface of the ground.
(iii) Grand opening and special event signs for businesses must be located on
the premises where the grand opening or special event is taking place.
(iv) Special event signs for a community event may be displayed on or off the
premises where the event is taking place, including in the periphery of the right-
of-way.
(v) Special event signs for a community event located in the periphery of the
right-of-way may not be larger than six square feet.
(vi) Special event signs may be located on the Robert Frost Elementary School
pedestrian overpass on North 20th Avenue. Said signs may be larger than six
square feet.
(e) Yard Sale Signs.
(i) Yard sale signs are only allowed for permitted yard sales (no-fee permits may
be obtained through the Finance Office or on the City's website).
(ii) No yard sale sign shall be placed, affixed, stapled, glued, or taped to any
utility pole, subdivision fence, or any public property;
(iii) No yard sale sign shall be placed on the right-of-way of any roadway, alley,
sidewalk or other public auto or pedestrian traffic areas in such a manner as to
interfere with traffic, both vehicular and pedestrian, as provided in PMC
17.15.040(4) and 17.25.030, or interfere with any residential, commercial or
industrial property;
(iv) Yard sale signs may not be placed more than 24 hours prior to a permitted
yard sale and must be removed within 24 hours of permit expiration.
(v) A maximum of four yard sale signs is allowed per permitted sale.
(vi) Yard sale sign area may not exceed two square feet per sign.
(vii) All yard sale signs must have the address of the yard sale event clearly
marked in legible,two-inch minimum size lettering.
(viii) Noncompliant and/or nonpermitted signs are subject to seizure.Any person
with a repeat violation of subsection(1)(e)of this section,Yard Sale Signs, is guilty
of an infraction and subject to a minimum penalty as set forth in Chapter 3.35
PMC. Move to enforcement
(ix) The City, at its election, may direct any infractions identified in this subsection
(1)(e), to be heard before the Pasco Code Enforcement Board pursuant to
Chapter 1.45 PMC. Move to enforcement
(f) Duration. Except for political signs or as otherwise provided or limited, no
temporary sign shall be erected, re-erected, or maintained for more than 30 days,
unless permitted as provided hereafter. For the purpose of this regulation, any sign of
28 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
similar content erected subsequent to the original temporary sign shall be considered
as the original sign for the time limitation contained herein.
(2) Limited Duration Signs. This signage shall not be restrained by content, but is usually
and customarily used to advertise nonpermitted events of longer duration than temporary
signs, to advertise real estate sales or rentals and construction projects that were used
during the period of the real estate sales or rental campaign with the completion of the
construction project. Specific conditions and period of duration are identified in the chart in
PMC 17.15.010. [Ord. 4100§ 3, 2013; Ord. 3790§ 3, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.05.020.]
i
G. Chapter 17.35: Off-Premises Signs
1. Purpose of this Chapter
This chapter identifies standards for signs that are permitted to display off-premises sign
messages.
2. Updated Regulations
This chapter will include provisions from Chapter 17.35, Off-Premises Signs.
Pasco's current sign regulations permit only three,very specific types of off-premises signs:
(1) off-premises directional signs, (2) community event regional signs, and (3) highway
follow-through signs. While all three sign type names can be revised to comply with Reed,
and still be linked to the conditions on which the sign is granted, the City will lose control
over the content of the sign. Because two of the three sign types are specifically directional
signs,we will need to discuss whether to eliminate these signs, rename them and recognize
that they may contain more advertising content than they have previously, or explore
whether we think there is room in the law to place reasonable limitations on these signs
because the City believes that on-premises advertising provides enough opportunity for
commercial speech about the business, event, or location.
We'd like to have a discussion about the community event regional signs to better
understand whether these are permanent or temporary signs and what types of events are
advertised. This looks like a systems of signs associated with a local community center/
convention center/events location? It might make sense to make this signage use-based
and collect all of the relevant regulations in a single section.
This chapter will include the following sections:
a. Off-Premises Signs Prohibited
b. (updated section on off-premises directional sign standards, name tbd)
c. (updated section on highway follow-through signs, name tbd)
3. Current Regulations
17.35.010 Generally.
Except where otherwise specifically permitted by this code, it shall be unlawful and
constitute a civil infraction for any person or entity to erect, maintain, locate, or relocate
any off-premises sign of any kind within the City of Pasco. [Ord. 3790 § 7, 2006; Code
1970§ 17.13.010.]
17.35.020 Off-premises directional sign standards.
All off-premises directional signs shall conform to the following standards:
29 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
(1) Be constructed of an aluminum sign stock or alternate material of equal quality
approved by the Community and Economic Development Director.
(2) Be affixed to the ground by a metal post of a gauge, size and height equal to those
used for the erection of stop signs and standard street name signs.
(3) Sign faces shall not be larger than two feet by two and one-half feet in size.
(4) All sign backgrounds shall be painted white with a blue trim or border as approved by
the Community and Economic Development Director.
(5) Lettering and arrows shall be painted blue and of the specified lettering fonts as
approved by the Community and Economic Development Director.
(6) All signs, including the lettering thereon, shall be reviewed for clarity, legibility and
compatibility with other signs within the zoning district. [Ord. 3790 § 7, 2006; Code 1970
§ 17.13.020.]
17.35.030 Off-premises directional sign location and approval requirements.
Off-premises directional signs not proposed for approved kiosks may be permitted in
commercial or industrial zones of the City through the special permit process provided the
following conditions are met.
(1) The business or place requesting the special permit must clearly demonstrate it is in
a location that is difficult and/or confusing to find.
(2) The business or place does not have direct access to an arterial street.
(3) There are no other reasonable and cost effective alternatives of directing individuals
to the business or place.
(4) Be supported by findings of fact developed through the review criteria in PMC
25.200.080.
(5) Located on private property; and
(6) Not be adjacent to locations identified in PMC 17.35.040. [Ord. 3790§7, 2006; Code
1970 § 17.13.030.]
17.35.040 Standards and locations for off-premises directional sign kiosks.
(1) Due to the lack of intensive development and/or the existence of new streets, certain
areas of the community will be permitted to have off-premises directional sign kiosks. Off-
premises directional sign kiosks are permitted to be erected near the intersections of the
following streets:
(a) Broadmoor Boulevard and St. Thomas Drive.
(b) Broadmoor Boulevard and Sandifur Parkway.
(c) Sandifur Parkway and Road 68.
(d) Road 68 and Burden Boulevard.
(e) East Lewis Street and East Lewis Place.
(f) Hillsboro Street and Commercial Avenue.
(g) Hillsboro Street and Railroad Avenue.
(h) Oregon Avenue and James Street.
30 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
(i) Lewis and 28th Avenue.
(2) The City Council may periodically review the need for off-premises directional sign
kiosks and modify the list of permitted locations for such signs by either adding or deleting
approved locations.
(3) Off-premises directional sign kiosks may be placed in the public right-of-way or private
property on sites that are compatible with the surrounding environment and comply with
the criteria set forth in this code and do not create hazards upon approval by the
Community and Economic Development Director. [Ord. 3790 § 7, 2006; Code 1970 §
17.13.040.]
17.35.050 Off-premises directional sign kiosk design.
Off-premises directional sign kiosks shall be designed and constructed by a licensed sign
contractor. All off-premises sign designs and construction materials must be approved by
the Community and Economic Development Director. As a minimum criterion, all
directional sign kiosks shall be constructed of a metal or masonry framework and contain
panel space for a minimum of four individual business identification signs. The color of the
kiosk and individual sign plates shall not interfere with traffic signals or signage and shall
be compatible with the character of the surrounding commercial environment, if any. [Ord.
3790§ 7, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.13.050.]
17.35.060 Eligibility requirements to use kiosk space.
All individual signs on a kiosk must be approved by the Community and Economic
Development Director.
To be considered eligible for placement on an off-premises sign kiosk, a business,
organization, or place must meet or comply with subsections (1)and (2)of this section and
meet or comply with at least one of the criteria identified in subsection (3), (4) or(5) of this
section:
(1) Be a business, organization or place within the City limits of Pasco and be within the
general vicinity of the location of the kiosk; and
(2) Not have erected an on-premises freestanding sign higher than 35 feet after the
passage of the ordinance codified in this chapter. Those properties that contain at least
100,000 square feet of floor area are exempt from the prohibition of on-premises signs
exceeding 35 feet in height; and
(3) Be a place or organization of community-wide interest, operating programs in Pasco
and recognized by a civic entity; or
(4) Be a tourist attraction recognized by the City of Pasco or the Tri-Cities Visitor and
Convention Bureau; or
(5) Have at least 5,000 square feet of floor area within one building and/or an approved
outdoor display area exceeding 20,000 square feet. [Ord. 3790 § 7, 2006; Code 1970 §
17.13.060.]
17.35.070 Kiosk licenses.
All off-premises sign kiosks not erected by the City must be covered by a license prior to
permitting.All licenses shall be approved by the City Council.At a minimum a licensee shall
contain terms and conditions that will permit the location and construction of an off-
premises sign kiosk. All licenses shall be prepared by the City Attorney and shall bind the
31 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
licensee to strict construction, design, maintenance, and sign message conditions.
Licenses shall be nonexclusive and will give the City the right to authorize or reject the
placement of individual sign plates based upon their form, proportion, scale, color,
materials, surface treatment,overall sign size, and the size and style of the lettering,without
restriction by content. The licensee shall have an obligation to include sign plates of
competing businesses or developments if said sign plates are approved by the City. [Ord.
3790§ 7, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.13.070.]
17.35.090 Highway follow-through signs.
(1) Location. To be determined by the City Engineer. Highway follow-through signs may
be placed within the City right-of-way no further than 900 linear feet from the associated
highway interchange as measured from the driving surface intersection of the state
highway off-ramp and the City right-of-way.
(2) Number. A single follow-through sign structure shall be permitted for each direction of
roadway travel. A maximum of two follow-through signs per freeway interchange shall be
permitted.
(3) Size. Follow-through sign plates shall not exceed a dimensional standard of 10 feet
wide and 12 feet tall.
(4) Duration. Follow-through signs may be removed by the City if the sign is observed to
be in a state of disrepair or becomes unsightly as determined by the Community and
Economic Development Director. A follow-through sign structure may be removed if the
sign structure lacks advertisements for any business with an active City of Pasco business
license. Individual business signs shall be removed from the follow-through sign within six
months of business license expiration.
(5) Permitting. Follow-through signs may be permitted in commercial and industrial zones
of the City through the building permit process in accordance with the standards listed
herein.
(6) Materials. Follow-through signs shall be constructed of materials specified in Chapter
9-28 of the Washington State Department of Transportation Standard Specifications for
Roads, Bridges and Municipal Construction (current edition). Generally, sign materials
consist of a single sheet of aluminum sign plate with blue or brown reflective backing
supported by a single metal sign pole.
(7) Content. Follow-through sign advertisements shall be limited to business logos
identical to those used on the associated on-highway WSDOT motorist information signs
and as regulated by the WSDOT Motorist Information Sign Program.
(8) Maintenance. The responsibility of follow-through sign maintenance shall be borne by
those businesses advertising on the sign.
(9) Licensing. Follow-through signs are subject to the licensing requirements set forth
under PMC 17.35.070. [Ord. 4190§2, 2014; Code 1970§ 17.13.090.]
32 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
H. Chapter 17.40: Nonconforming Signs
1. Purpose of this Chapter
This chapter should identify the range of activities that are appropriate for nonconforming
signs, including changes, expansions, relocation, and maintenance. It should also clearly
define what actions will result in the loss of nonconforming status, both through activity by
the sign owner and demolition or destruction by external means such as extreme weather.
2. Updated Regulations
This chapter will include regulations from current Chapter 17.40, Nonconforming Signs.
The current nonconformity regulations are a little confusing. Section 17.40.010, General,
required all signs to be made conforming within five years of code adoption, which appears
to have been 2006. This is followed by provisions about maintenance, moving, and appeal
—all of which were only applicable before the signs became conforming? We will need to
discuss whether this is the approach the City wants to take following the completion of
Phase 2, presuming some signs will be made nonconforming, and whether any changes
will need to be made to this section to address signage during the period of time before
they are required to be made conforming.
3. Current Regulations
17.40.010 General
Every sign which by change of zoning district or by annexation of territory to the City
becomes in violation of, or does not conform to, the provisions of this title shall be removed
or altered so as to conform with the provisions of this title within five years from the effective
date of such amendment or change; except prohibited signs under PMC 17.15.040 shall
be removed upon written notification. [Ord. 3790 §8, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.15.010.]
17.40.020 Maintenance.
Nonconforming signs may be maintained, repaired and repainted without a permit or fee;
however,the sign,other than change of copy, may not be modified (unless the modification
brings the sign into compliance with this code),expanded, relocated,or structurally altered.
Maintenance excludes major structure repairs designed to extend the useful life of the
nonconforming sign. If the nonconforming sign is damaged by wind,fire, neglect, or by any
other cause, and such damage exceeds 60 percent of its replacement value, the
nonconforming sign will be removed. Upon change of use of a business or premises, a
nonconforming sign shall be brought into compliance with this code within 180 days. [Ord.
3790§8, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.15.020.]
17.40.030 Moving or alterations.
In such cases where a nonconforming sign is moved or changed, the sign shall be treated
as a new sign and shall be subject to the requirements of this title. [Ord. 3790 § 8, 2006;
Code 1970§ 17.15.030.]
17.40.040 Appeal.
The period specified in PMC 17.40.010 may be extended by the Hearing Examiner upon
application of the person maintaining such sign if the Hearing Examiner finds that such an
extension is necessary for the preservation of substantial property rights of the applicant.
The application for the extension shall be made in writing with the City Planner within 10
days after notice to remove the sign has been issued by the Building Official. [Ord. 3790§
8, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.15.040.]
33 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
17.40.050 Removal of nonconforming signs.
If the provisions of PMC 17.40.010 are not complied with regarding removal or alteration
of nonconforming signs, and no appeal is made in accordance with PMC 17.40.040, the
nonconforming sign may be removed by the City, and the cost thereof shall be charged to
the owner or tenant. If the removal of any sign requires compensation in accordance with
RCW 47.42.107, such sign may remain until the City orders compliance by written notice.
[Ord. 3790 § 8, 2006; Code 1970 § 17.15.050.]
I. Chapter 17.45: Construction Standards
1. Purpose of this Chapter
This chapter should identify all relevant signs construction requirements.
2. Updated Regulations
This chapter will include regulations from Chapter 17.30, Construction Standards.
The City appears to have a comprehensive set of current regulations. We will discuss
whether there are any issues with the application of the construction standards and made
edits as necessary.
3. Current Regulations
17.25.010 Generally.
All signs, including the frames, braces or supports, including all structural attachments
thereof, shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with this title, the International
Building Code, PMC Title 25, and all other applicable ordinances of the City. [Ord. 3790 §
5, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.09.010.]
17.30.010 General construction.
(1) General. All signs shall be designed and constructed to resist wind and seismic forces
as specified in this chapter and the International Building Code (IBC). All bracing systems
shall be designed and constructed to transfer lateral forces to the foundations. For signs
on buildings, the dead and lateral loads shall be transmitted through the structural frame of
the building to the ground in such a manner as not to overstress any of the elements
thereof.
The overturning moment produced from lateral forces shall in no case exceed two-thirds of
the dead-load resisting moment. Uplift due to overturning shall be adequately resisted by
proper anchorage to the ground or to the structural frame of the building. The weight of
earth superimposed over footings may be used in determining the dead-load resisting
moment. Such earth shall be carefully placed and thoroughly compacted.
(2) Wind Loads. For the purpose of design, wind pressure shall be taken upon the gross
area of the vertical projection of all signs at not less than 15 pounds per square foot for
those portions less than 50 feet above the ground.
In calculating wind pressure on cylindrical or spherical signs or sign structures, this
pressure shall be assured to act on six-tenths of the projected area. In all open frame signs,
the area used in computing wind pressure shall be one and one-half times the net area of
the framing members exposed to the wind.
34 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
(3) Seismic Loads. Signs and sign structures shall be designed and constructed to resist
seismic forces as specified in the building code.
(4) Combined Loads.Wind and seismic loads need not be combined in the design of signs
or sign structures; only that loading producing the larger stresses need be used.
Vertical design loads shall be assumed to be acting simultaneously with the wind or seismic
loads.
(5) Allowable Stresses. The design of wood, concrete, or steel members shall conform to
the requirements of the building code. Loads, both vertical and horizontal, exerted on the
soil shall not produce stresses exceeding those specified in the building code.
The working stresses for wind or seismic loads combined with dead loads may be increased
as specified in the building code.
The working stresses of wire rope and its fastenings shall not exceed 25 percent of the
ultimate strength of the rope or fasteners. [Ord. 3790§6, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.11.010.]
17.30.020 Construction.
(1) General.The supports for all signs shall be placed in or upon private property and shall
be securely built, constructed, and erected in conformance with the requirement of this
title.
(2) Materials. Materials of construction for signs shall be of the quality and grade as
specified for buildings in the building code.
In all signs, the materials and details of construction shall, in the absence of specified
requirements, conform to the following:
(a) Structural steel shall be of such quality as to conform to standards of the building
code. The thickness of sheet metal, when formed integrally with the display surface,
shall be not less than No. 24 gauge. When not formed integrally with the display
surface, the minimum thickness of the secondary members shall be not less than No.
12 gauge. The minimum thickness of hot-rolled steel members furnishing structural
support for signs shall be of sufficient strength to support the loads imposed upon
them. Steel pipes shall be of such quality as to conform to the building code. Steel
members may be connected with one galvanized bolt provided the connection is
adequate to transfer the stresses in the member;
(b) Anchors and supports for signs when of wood which are embedded in the soil, or
in direct contact with, shall be pressure treated with an approved preservative before
erection.
(c) No material, part, portion, or equipment shall be used in any sign that might
become dangerous because of vibration, corrosion, disintegration, or any other
reason.
(3) Restrictions on Combustible Materials. Freestanding signs may be constructed of any
materials meeting the requirements of this title.
Wall signs, blade or projecting signs, and signs on awnings or canopies or marquees shall
be constructed of incombustible materials, except as provided in subsection (4) of this
section. No combustible materials other than approved plastics shall be used in the
construction of electric signs.
35 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
(4) Nonstructural Trim. Nonstructural trim may be of wood, metal, approved plastic or any
combination thereof.
(5) Anchorage. Members supporting unbraced signs shall be so proportioned that the
bearing loads imposed on the soil in either direction, horizontal or vertical, shall not exceed
the safe values. Braced signs shall be anchored to resist the specified wind or seismic load
acting in any direction. Anchors and supports to the ground shall be designed for safe
bearing load on the soil and for an effective resistance to pull-out amounting to a force 25
percent greater than the required resistance to overturning.
Signs supported by frames or posts rigidly attached to the base but not anchored into the
ground shall be so proportioned that the weight and size of the base will be adequate to
resist the wind pressure specified in PMC 17.30.010(1).
Signs attached to masonry, concrete, or steel shall be safely and securely fastened thereto
by means of metal anchors, bolts, or approved expansion screws of sufficient size and
anchorage to safely support the loads applied.
No wooden blocks or plugs or anchors with wood used in connection with screws or nails
shall be considered proper anchorage, except in the case of signs attached to wood
framing.
No anchor or support of any sign shall be connected to, or supported by, a parapet wall,
unless such wall is designed in accordance with the requirements specified in the building
code for parapet walls.
Cables, chains, wires or other flexible or loosely connected members shall not be
considered as adequate fastening, except for cloth signs and banners.
No sign shall be erected within the City unless the same is securely affixed to a solid
foundation or constructed so as to prevent the movement of the sign in a swinging motion.
(6) Sign Quality.All signs, and the copy thereon, visible from the street, shall be designed
and constructed to reduce distraction to motorists, and the copy thereon shall be clear,
legible, and compatible with other permitted signs within that zoning district. [Ord. 3790 §
6, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.11.020.]
J. Chapter 17.50: Maintenance and Abandonment
1. Purpose of this Chapter
This chapter should be used to establish sign maintenance requirements and to identify the
criteria to be used to determine if a sign has been abandoned.
2. Updated Regulations
This chapter will include regulations from Chapter 17.20: Permits, Fees, and Inspection.
While we will make most of our Reed required changes to the sign names and content
earlier in the code, we also need to review the abandonment requirements to make sure
the City can determine that a sign has been abandoned without reading the sign copy. We
will carry forward the current maintenance requirements unless staff identifies specific
updates to the code language.
3. Current Regulations
36 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
17.20.040 Maintenance.
All signs shall be maintained in a state of security, safety, and good repair. It shall be the
responsibility of every owner of real property and their tenant or other person in possession
of such property with the consent of the owner to maintain every sign on such property in
strict compliance with this code. [Ord. 3790 §4, 2006; Code 1970 § 17.07.040.]
17.25.050 Abandoned signs and frames.
Any sign, including support frames, now or hereafter existing which no longer advertises a
bona fide business conducted, or a product sold or service rendered, shall be removed or
the advertising copy shall be painted or coated out. If the property owner or tenant fails to
do so within 30 days after written notice from the Building Official, the Building Official shall
cause the sign to be removed or painted out and any expense incident thereto shall be paid
by the owner or tenant.All sign frames and supports of abandoned signs must be removed
within one year of the date of abandonment or business closure. [Ord. 3790 § 5, 2006;
Code 1970§ 17.09.050.]
17.35.090 Highway Follow-Through Signs
(4) Duration. Follow-through signs may be removed by the City if the sign is observed to
be in a state of disrepair or becomes unsightly as determined by the Community and
Economic Development Director. A follow-through sign structure may be removed if the
sign structure lacks advertisements for any business with an active City of Pasco business
license. Individual business signs shall be removed from the follow-through sign within six
months of business license expiration.
K. Chapter 17.55: Sign Permit Procedures
1. Purpose of this Chapter
This chapter identifies all of the procedures related to sign permits and signs.
2. Updated Regulations
This chapter will include regulations from Chapter 17.20: Permits, Fees, and Inspections;
and Chapter 17.45: Variances and Appeals.
We do not anticipate making changes to the administrative procedures during Phase 1 of
the project unless staff identifies specific provisions to update. As we work through the
drafting process, we will spend time with staff discussing how to implement the updated
regulations in a way that allows the City to minimize the need to identify sign copy as part
of the sign approval process.
3. Current Regulations
17.20.010 Permits, fees and inspection.
No sign shall be erected, constructed, altered, relocated or modified without first obtaining
a permit pursuant to the provisions of this title unless specifically exempted herein.
(1) Permit—Number Required. A separate permit shall be required for a sign or signs for
each business location. If the business entity's sign is part of a group of signs for a business
location, only one permit shall be required at the time of application.
(2) Permit — Time Limitation. If, after the issuance of a sign permit, the operations
authorized thereunder are not completed or substantially completed within 180 days after
the date of the permit, such sign permit shall be automatically null and void.
37 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
(3) Revocation of Permit. The Building Official may, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit
issued under provisions of this chapter whenever the permit is issued in error or on the
basis of incorrect information or whenever the sign is in violation of any ordinance,
regulation or provision of this chapter.
(4) Change of Copy. The holder of a permit, for the duration thereof, shall have the right
to change the advertising copy on the structure or sign for which the permit was issued,
without being required to pay any additional fees.
(5) Wall Sign and Mural Maintenance. Failure to properly maintain the media used within
a painted wall sign or mural or artwork as defined herein shall be sufficient grounds to
revoke the sign permit.
(6) Interpretation. In all applications for permits where a matter of interpretation arises,
the most restrictive definition shall prevail. Approval shall be dependent upon the showing
that the proposed sign meets the specific size and type criteria required under this title and
is compatible with the surrounding environment. The Building Official shall consider the
proposed sign's form, proportion, scale, color, materials, surface treatment, overall sign
size, and the size and styling of the lettering considering its relationship with other nearby
signs, other elements of the street and site improvements and with adjacent structures.
[Ord. 3790§4, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.07.010.]
17.20.020 Application.
The permit required by this section is issued by the Building Official pursuant to the
provisions of this chapter. In determining whether the criteria for approval of a sign permit
are satisfied, the Building Official shall use the criteria set forth in this sign code.A decision
is to be made within 14 working days of receipt of a complete application and payment of
the fee required. Application for a sign permit shall be in written form upon forms furnished
by the Building Official and shall include information as the Building Official deems
necessary to show full compliance with this sign code and all other laws and ordinances
affecting the construction and location of the sign. [Ord. 3790 § 4, 2006; Code 1970 §
17.07.020.]
17.20.030 Fees.
A nonrefundable fee shall be paid upon the filing of an application for a sign permit in
accordance with Chapter 3.35 PMC, Fee Summary. [Ord. 3790 § 4, 2006; Code 1970 §
17.07.030.]
17.20.050 Inspections
All signs for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the Building Official.
The permit holder shall notify the Building Official when the following work is ready for
inspection and shall not proceed further until such work has been approved:
(1) Footings. Before any concrete is poured for freestanding signs or any other sign
partially supported on or attached to the ground.
(2) Electrical. Signs containing electrical wiring shall be inspected by the State
Department of Labor and Industries.
(3) Final. To be made immediately after erection. [Ord. 3790 § 4, 2006; Code 1970 §
17.07.050.]
17.20.060 Approval
38 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
i
(1) Each sign shall be adequately constructed in accordance with the requirements of the
International Building Code and sign codes, as amended.
(2) Signs containing electrical circuitry shall meet the requirements of all state laws and j
shall include an approved testing lab sticker. [Ord. 3790 § 4, 2006; Code 1970 §
17.07.060.]
17.45.010 Variances and appeals procedure.
(1) Powers. Recognizing that there are certain cases that may, or may not, be detrimental
to aesthetic character, public health, safety and general welfare, and the effectiveness of
visual communication in the City, depending upon the facts of each particular case, a
limited power to issue variance permits and to interpret any section of the title is vested
with the Hearing Examiner.
(2) Variances and Appeals. Application for appeals and variances from the ruling of the
Building Official concerning the provisions herein may be made to the Hearing Examiner.
The City Planner shall receive all applications requesting review of the Building Official's
requirements,decisions, or determinations relating thereto,for a variance.The City Planner
shall fix a reasonable date and time for the public hearing and shall give at least 10 days'
advance written notice thereof to the parties and to the owners of property within 300 feet
of the actual or anticipated location of the sign subject to the variance. The Hearing
Examiner shall conduct a hearing and make a decision following the procedures outlined
in Chapter 25.195 PMC.
(3) Stay. An application to the Hearing Examiner stays all proceedings in furtherance of
the action unless in the opinion of the Building Official a stay would cause imminent peril to
life or property.
(4) Variance Criteria. The Hearing Examiner may approve a variance from the
requirements of this code if the applicant demonstrates that:
(a) Strict application of the code requirements would deny the applicant a reasonable
opportunity to communicate by sign in a manner similar to like persons or uses
because of an unusual or unique circumstance relating to the property or the proposal,
such as site or building location, building design, physical features of the property, or
other circumstance not created by the applicant;
(b) The sign which would result from the variance will not affect the surrounding
neighborhood or other property affected by the request in a manner materially
inconsistent with the purposes of this sign code; and
(c) The degree of the variance is limited to that reasonably necessary to alleviate the
problem created by the unique or unusual circumstances identified in subsection (1)
of this section.
(5) Appeal. Any person or entity having a direct interest affected by the decision of the
Community and Economic Development Director or Building Official regarding the approval
or denial of a permit, conditions imposed for approval, or interpretation or application of the
provisions of this sign code may appeal that decision to the Hearing Examiner in the same
manner as the procedure provided in subsection (2) of this section. In hearing the appeal,
the Hearing Examiner shall give deference to the Community and Economic Development
Director and Building Official's expertise and the applicant shall bear the burden of proof
39 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
that the Community and Economic Development Director and/or Building Official's decision
was arbitrary or capricious or clearly erroneous.
(6) Finality. The Hearing Examiner shall render its decision, together with the written
findings of fact, within 10 working days of the close of the hearing.
(7) Unless a Land Use Petition Act appeal by a person having standing is initiated pursuant
to Chapter 36.70C RCW in the Franklin County Superior Court within 21 days of the
issuance of the land use decision, the decision of the Hearing Examiner shall be final.
(8) Collection of Expenses Incurred. Whenever, pursuant to the provisions of PMC
17.40.040 or 17.40.050, the City incurs any expense in connection with the removal or
alteration of any sign, the cost thereof shall be paid by the owner of the real property upon
which the sign is erected or maintained. In the event any other person is in possession of
such property with the consent of the owner, the owner and such other person shall be
jointly responsible for the payment of such cost.
The City shall submit to the owner and/or other person in possession of the premises a
statement of costs incurred by the City for removing or altering the sign.
Upon the failure to receive full payment within 30 days from the date the statement is
submitted, or within 30 days after conclusion of any appeal proceedings,whichever is later,
the City is authorized to provide for the collection of the amounts due in any lawful manner.
[Ord. 3790 § 9, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.17.010.]
L. Chapter 17.60: Violations and Enforcement
1. Purpose of this Chapter
This chapter should identify both general and specific activities that are considered sign
code violations along with the City's potential methods of enforcement.
2. Updated Regulations
This chapter will include the violation and enforcement provisions that are located in various
sections across the sign code.
We would like to discuss this section further with staff to determine whether updates are
necessary as part of the Phase 1 project.
3. Current Regulations
17.25.040 Removal of dangerous and/or illegal signs.
If the Building Official finds that any sign is unsafe or insecure, or is a menace to the public
safety, or has been constructed, erected, relocated or altered in violation of the provisions
hereof, he shall give written notice to the owner or the tenant of the property wherein it is
located to remove or alter such sign. If the owner or tenant fails to comply with the
provisions of this title within 10 days after such notice, the Building Official may cause such
sign to be removed and the cost thereof shall be paid by the owner or tenant. The Building
Official may cause any sign that is an immediate peril to persons or property to be removed
summarily and without notice. [Ord. 3790§ 5, 2006; Code 1970§ 17.09.040.]
There are also a number of enforcement provisions located in the temporary signs section.
40 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
IV. Next Steps
This document is a preliminary analysis that is intended for staff review and follow-up discussion
with the consultant. This Code Audit and Annotated Outline should provide a systematic
approach to the sign code update, raise questions for discussions, and hopefully prompt
questions that Pasco staff would like to discuss also.
The project schedule anticipates a two-week internal review of the Code Audit followed by a
conference call discussion. Moving past the Thanksgiving holiday, we should schedule a call
sometime during the week of December 2.
41 Pasco Sign Code Update Annotated Outline
MEMORANDUM TO PLANNING COMMISSION
Cityof PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
r �s< Pasco City Hall —525 North Third Avenue—Council Chambers
DATE: THURSDAY, December 19th, 2019
7:00 PM
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Jacob B. Gonzalez, Senior Planner
SUBJECT: INFO 2019-025 House Bill 1923
Background
The Washington State Legislature passed E2SHB 1923 (House Bill 1923) during the 2018-2019
session. House Bill 1923 was the result of their conversations on how to identify solutions for
cities to accommodate the coming growth while providing a greater variety of housing styles.
The legislation also provided an opportunity for cities to receive grant funding from the
Washington State Department of Commerce to develop and adopt ordinances to increase
residential capacity by taking certain defined actions (code amendments). Cities who applied
with the intent of adopting at least two of the defined actions were eligible to receive grant
funding.
The City of Pasco applied for the grant funding in September 2019, and was notified of the
award in November. The Washington State Department of Commerce awarded the City of
Pasco $40,872 to analyze research and move forward with the proposed intention of adopting
the following actions:
• Authorize at least one duplex, triplex or courtyard apartment on each parcel in one
more zoning districts that permit single-family residences;
• Authorize cluster zoning or lot size averaging in all zoning districts that permit single-
family residences;
• Authorize accessory dwelling units (ADU's) on all residential parcels containing single-
family homes
Actions must be adopted by April 1, 2021 to receive the full funding.
The actions identified above represent an opportunity for the City of Pasco to address a
population increase of over 48,000 by the year 2038. Benefits of the proposed actions will
include an increasing of housing stock, housing types and infill/re-development opportunities.
All identified as possible solutions for affordable housing in the 2020-2024 Tri-Cities
Consolidated Plan approved by the Planning Commission in October.
The following section includes more information about the intended actions and a timeline for
the scope of work approved by the Washington State Department of Commerce.
1
Intended Actions Summary
The following is a brief narrative of the proposed actions approved by the Washington State
Department of Commerce under the funding award for House Bill 1923.
Action 1
• Authorize at least one duplex, triplex or courtyard apartment on each parcel in one
more zoning districts that permit single-family residences;
Action 1 would permit the construction of a duplex, triplex or courtyard apartment within
existing residential zoning district. This action would allow neighborhoods to develop using
a variety of housing styles offering developers and homebuilder's flexibility in their design.
Example layout of 12 lots that include eight single-family dwelling units and four duplexes.
iii me I ■ ■ i ■ ■ ■
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Action 2
• Authorize cluster zoning or lot size averaging in all zoning districts that permit single-
family residences;
Action 2 would permit developers to design their plats (subdivisions) using an average lot
(parcel) size that may be below or above the minimum lot size requirement. The average of
all lots would still need to meet the minimum lot size requirement.
2
An example in the current RS-1 Residential Zoning District is below:
Lot#1 10,500
Lot#2 12,000
Lot#3 9,500
Lot#4 11,000
Lot#5 10,400
In the example above, the five lots have an average lot size of 10,400 square feet, which
meets the minimum lot size requirement of the RS-1 Zone. Additional parameters (such as
a standard deviation) can be applied to enforce consistency with the underlying residential
zoning districts purpose.
Action 3
• Authorize accessory dwelling units (ADU's) on all residential parcels containing single-
family homes;
Accessory dwelling units (ADU's) are smaller homes (units) located on the same grounds (or
attached to) a regular single-family house. The two most widely known ADU types are
detached structures and attached structures. Benefits of ADU construction include the
supply of smaller, affordable housing for the community, passive income for homeowners
and housing opportunities for smaller households.
Examples:
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Detached
Attached
Source: Washington County, Oregon
Scope of Work Timeline
The requirement of the House Bill 1923 funding state that all intended actions (code
amendments) must be adopted by April 1, 2021. The funding agreement and scope of work are
attached for your reference.
3
R,2,6 STATE
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STATE OF WASHINGTON
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
1011 Plum Street SE • PO Box 42525 • Olympia, Washington 98504-2525 (360) 725-4000
www.commerce.wa.gov
November 5,2019
The Honorable Matt Watkins
Mayor of Pasco
525 N 3rd Avenue
Pasco,Washington 99301
RE: E2SHB 1923 Grant—Increasing Residential Building Capacity
Dear Mayor Watkins:
I am pleased to inform you that the city of Pasco has been awarded$40,872.00 in grant funds for the
2019-21 Biennium to assist with increasing urban residential building capacity and streamlining
regulations. The Washington State Legislature created this new grant program under Engrossed Second
Substitute House Bill (E2SHB) 1923 (Chapter 348,Laws of 2019), which provides a number of eligible
land use planning activities for cities to consider implementing to increase housing capacity.
Your jurisdiction recently submitted a grant application, identifying actions it intends to develop and
adopt, as well as its grant funding need to assist with this work.Your scope of work and budget must be
consistent with the scope of work and budget included in your grant application.
This grant will be administered by the Washington Department of Commerce, Growth Management
Services unit. Before we disburse the funds, a contract with an agreed upon scope of work and budget
will need to be executed between your organization and the Department of Commerce. Funds may be
retroactively applied to project costs related to your grant scope of work,beginning July 28,2019,the
effective date of E2SHB 1923.
William Simpson, Senior Planner is available to help you if you have any questions. Please call
(509)280-3602 or will.simpson@commerce.wa.gov for assistance with this contract going forward.
Sincerely,
Dave Andersen,AICP
Managing Director
Growth Management Services
cc: Jacob Gonzalez, Senior Planner
William Simpson
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MEMORANDUM TO PLANNING COMMISSION
Cityol PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
Pasco City Hall—525 North Third Avenue—Council Chambers
DATE:THURSDAY, October 17th, 2019
7:00 PM
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Jacob B. Gonzalez, Senior Planner
SUBJECT: MF # CA2019-013 —Street Layout (Lots & Blocks)
Introduction
As the City looks forward towards accommodating additional growth, staff are reviewing and
identifying revisions to the Pasco Municipal Code, particularly Title 21 (Pasco Urban Area
Subdivision Regulations) and Title 25 (Zoning). In addition to the recently approved and
adopted code amendments (i.e., Shared Street Frontages, Minimum Lot Sizes) the layout and
design of our neighborhoods are equally, important at ensuring that our community has a safe
and efficient manner to travel.
The existing language in the Pasco Municipal Code (PMC 21.15 and PMC 21.20) are broad and
do not provide sufficient support to achieve a well-connected transportation system. In an
effort to provide the expanded Urban Growth Area and existing communities, staff has
identified revisions are necessary to the above-mentioned PMCs as a key component of
addressing transportation challenges within our community.
Street Pattern
Subdivision layouts, patterns and size are the foundation of development in Pasco. Traditional
neighborhood development was based on a street grid pattern. The street grid pattern defined
block widths, lengths and parameters, that pattern exists in Central Pasco, specifically the area
located east of US 395 and south of Highway 12.
As is the case in most cities, as the distance from the city center increased, a variety of patterns
emerge in no particular distinct order that exist in the neighborhoods developed north of
Interstate 1-182. The latter has resulted in communities developed around widely spaced, large
arterials fed by smaller roadways that often do not connect with each other.
This pattern causes all roadway users to be dependent on a limited number of thoroughfares
for their trips and limits the opportunities for alternate routes. This has led to an increase in trip
lengths and the time spent traveling due to the longer and indirect routes.
1
Figure 1 below provides an example of each:
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A sample of intersection lengths along major corridors in Pasco was conducted; average
distances between block lengths are in Figure 2:
AVERAGE INTERSECTION DISTANCE
■Longest Distance ■Shortest Distance ®Average Distance
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1373
W Sylvester Street 185
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N 20th Avenue 208
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*Distances calculated using Street Centerline and Node attributes
2
Relationship to Existing Plans and Policies
The 2008 City of Pasco Comprehensive Plan provides goals and policies that drive the long-
range planning for the city. A brief list of goals and policies from the existing Comprehensive
Plan is below. The ongoing update for the new Comprehensive Plan retains and reinforces the
goals and policies identified in 2008.
• Goal TR-1: Provide for and maintain an efficient transportation system centered on a
convenient and integrated street network
o Policy TR-1-G: Support the development of an interconnected network of
streets, trails and other public ways while preserving neighborhood identity;
and building streets and sidewalks without interrupted or patchwork rights-
of-ways or construction
• Goal TR-2: Encourage efficient, alternative and multi-modal transportation systems
o Policy TR-2-G: Encourage greater use of bicycles and walking by providing
safe and purposeful bicycle and pedestrian routes
The City adopted the Pasco Bicycle/Pedestrian Master Plan in 2011. The purpose of this plan
was to address the opportunities, challenges and conditions for non-motorized travel.
In 2018,the Pasco City Council adopted ordinance 4389 creating the Complete Streets Policy
(PMC 21.15). The Complete Streets concept is a transportation policy and design approach
that requires streets to be planned, designed, operated and maintained to enable a safe,
convenient and comfortable travel and access for all users regardless of their mode of
transportation.
For the City to meet the above requirements of the Pasco Municipal Code and existing plans
and policies, an analysis with possible revisions to existing code must be conducted. Additional
guidance, including policies and goals are identified by the following agencies:
• The Benton-Franklin Council of Governments
• Ben Franklin Transit
• Washington State Department of Transportation
• Federal Transit Administration
• Federal Highway Administration
• Environmental Protection Agency
Applicable Information and References
Surveys conducted over recent years have reinforced the need for a well-connected
transportation system. At larger (national) scales, Transportation for America 'found that 80%
of those between the ages of 18-34 are choosing to live in walkable neighborhoods with access
I http://t4america org/2014/04/22/survey-to-recruit-and-keep-millennials-give-them-walkable-places-with-good-
transit-and-other-options/
3
to transit and other options. AARPz conducted a study of over 2,200 people aged 50 and above,
and found that 79% of responders prefer to live with a half mile of grocery and drug stores, or
other daily services. A nationwide study by Redfin3 identified that more walkable and accessible
neighborhoods had a positive impact on property values.
Regionally, the Benton-Franklin Council of Governments identified in the
Metropolitan/Regional Transportation Plan (Transition204O) the top concerns were walkability
(86%), access to transit and pedestrian facilities (75% and 71%).
The 2018 National Citizen Survey4 for Pasco also provided feedback from households in Pasco.
A few of the results are provided below:
• Access within Pasco: 23% Fair or Poor
• Built Environment: 59% Fair or Poor
• Traffic Flow: 51% Fair or Poor
• Walkability: 44% Fair or Poor
Additionally, ease of access for destinations was essential or very important for 78% and the
built environment for 74% of responders. The map in Figure 2 illustrates the responses received
within the City from the survey.
Figure 2-National Citizen Survey Response Map
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s https://www.redfin.com/blog/how-much-is-a-point-of-walk-score-worth
a htti)s://www.pasco-wa.gov/979/National-Citizen-Survey
4
Next Steps
Staff is seeking comments, questions and guidance from the Planning Commission. Next steps
will include an analysis of existing connectivity within the City, comparison of nearby and
similarly sizes jurisdictions and consistency with identified policies and best practices.
Coordination will occur within city staff and departments including Planning, Public Works and
Fire.
5