Business Retention and Development Committee Agenda and Packet 2019 04 01

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SUBJECT: REVISED SIGN CODE - DRAFT DATE: APRIL 1, 2019 PAGE 2 OF 3 application of these new rules basically examines the need to read the message on the sign to determine its regulations, and if so then the regulations are no longer legal. Rather, you can generally regulate instead on the length of time, the allowed location, and the manner of the sign itself (what it is constructed of, how tall, how big, etc). • Sandwich boards beyond downtown. Currently, sandwich boards are only allowed downtown. The draft sign code proposes allowing sandwich boards in Commercial and Mixed -Use areas, as well. Unlike in downtown, where sandwich board signs are allowed on sidewalks in the public right of way, in other commercial areas of the City the location of sandwich board signs would be limited to private property. In all parts of the City, including downtown, sandwich board signs would only be allowed immediately adjacent to the storefront. • Larger signs. The draft sign codes proposes the following changes to allow larger signs: o Properties adjacent to US 36 may receive an additional 50% in maximum area and an additional 100% increase in maximum height o Size of development. Currently, the maximum allowed area is generally standard for all sizes of development. The draft sign code includes ranges of sign regulations based on size of development, smaller allowances for smaller properties, and larger allowances for larger developments. o Removal of Character Height regulations. Currently the maximum allowed character height in the CDDSG is 24" and is 18" in the IDDSG. The draft sign code removes this limit to allow flexibility in design. • Murals. Currently, murals are only allowed in downtown under specific regulations for allowed areas, size and circumstances on the structure. The draft sign code proposes to allow murals in Commercial, Mixed -Use and on buildings with Institutional uses (museums, schools, recreational, etc) in Residential areas. • Electronic Message Centers. Currently, electronic message centers are not allowed in any area of Louisville. The draft sign code proposes to allow them on monument signs for gas stations, display signs (menu boards) in Commercial and Mixed -Use areas, and through the PUD process elsewhere. The draft sign code includes revisions to many other regulations. A summary table comparing existing regulations to the draft sign code is included as an attachment. DISCUSSION: Staff from the Planning Department will be in attendance to present the draft sign code recommendations, areas for policy discussion and provide next steps. RECOMMENDATION: Staff is recommending adoption of the draft sign code following the incorporation of public feedback. In addition to BRAD, the draft sign code will be presented to the Downtown Business Association, Planning Commission, a focus group, along with a public open house and online opportunities for view. Following those meetings, the BRAD COMMUNICATION