4.90.070 Sign Design.
The following criteria shall be used by the Director in reviewing the design of individual sings. Compliance with each of the following design criteria shall be required before a sign permit can be approved.
A. Colors on signs and structural members should be harmonious with one another and relate to the dominant colors of the buildings on the site. Contrasting colors may be utilized if the overall effect of the sign is still compatible with the building colors.
B. The design and construction of signs shall adhere to the following criteria:
1. Except for banners, flags, temporary signs, and temporary window signs conforming with the requirements of this Code, each sign shall be constructed of permanent materials and shall be permanently attached to the ground, building or another structure by direct attachment to a rigid wall, frame, or structure.
2. Each permanent sign shall be designed by a professional (e.g. architect, building designer, landscape architect, interior designer, or others whose principal business is the design, manufacture, or sale of signs), or who are capable of producing professional results.
3. Each permanent sign shall be constructed by persons whose principal business is building construction or a related trade including sign manufacturing and installation, or others capable of producing professional results. The intent is to ensure public safety, achieve signs of careful construction, have neat and readable copy, and have durability, to reduce maintenance and prevent dilapidation.
4. Vinyl banner signs may not be used as permanent signage.
C. The materials and structure of signs shall adhere to the following criteria:
1. Sign materials (including framing and supports) shall be representative of the type and scale of materials used on the site where the sign is located. Sign materials shall match those used on the buildings on the site and any other signs on the site.
2. No sign shall include reflective material.
3. Materials for permanent signs shall be durable and capable of withstanding weathering over the life of the sign with reasonable maintenance.
4. The size of the structural members (e.g. columns, crossbeams, and braces) shall be proportional to the sign panel they are supporting.
5. The use of individual letters incorporated into the building design is encouraged, rather than a sign with background and framing other than the structure of the wall.
D. The City does not regulate the message content (copy) of signs; however, the following are principles of copy design and layout that can enhance the readability and attractiveness of signs. Copy design and layout consistent with these principles is encouraged, but not required.
1. Sign copy should relate only to the name and/or nature of the business or building.
2. Permanent signs that advertise information such as continuous sales, special prices, or include phone numbers should be avoided. Information should be conveyed briefly or by logo, symbol or other graphic manner. The intent should be to increase the readability of the sign and thereby enhance the identity of the business.
3. Sign lighting shall be designed to minimize light and glare on surrounding right-of- ways and properties and adhere to the following criteria:
a. External light sources shall be directed and shielded so that they do not produce glare off the site, or on any object other than the sign.
b. Signs that blink, flash, flutter, or change light intensity, brightness, or color are not allowed.
c. Neither the direct nor reflected light from primary light sources shall create hazards for pedestrians or operators of motor vehicles.
d. For energy conservation, light sources shall be hard-wired fluorescent or compact fluorescent lamps, or other lighting technology that is of equal or greater energy efficiency. Incandescent lamps are prohibited.