Sign Code Update Project

The City Council adopted an updated Sign Code Ordinance during their meeting on June 22, 2009. The documents the City Council adopted are listed below.

Background

The sign code was identified as one of the development regulations that were to undergo review and update following adoption of the Comprehensive Plan in 2001. The existing sign code was in need of modernization to reflect new sign technology and the needs of the business community and the public. The old sign code has not undergone a thorough review since its adoption in the late 1950’s.

The sign code addresses on-premises signs. On-premises signs are located on the site of the business they serve and are intended to advertise only the business located on the site. These include freestanding signs, wall signs, projecting signs, monument signs and other types of permanent signs.

Off-premises signs (billboards) advertise businesses and services that are not on the site that the sign is located on. The newly adopted sign code continues the provisions which do not allow new off-premises signs. Maintenance of existing off-premises signs is allowed.

Contact:

Ken Pelton at (509) 625-6063 or kpelton@spokanecity.org for more information.

Sign Code Documents

Sign Regulation Summary

In order to balance the need to protect the public safety and maintain an attractive community and the need for adequate identification, communication and advertising, signs within the City of Spokane are regulated by Chapter 17C.240 of the Spokane Municipal Code.

Below is a summery of the sign code regulations please see Chapter 17C.240 of the Spokane Municipal Code for the complete regulations.

If you are considering installing signs on property within the City of Spokane the first step in determining what signs are permitted is to find out the zoning of the property. You can do this by using the Spokane City Map Viewer or by calling the Planning and Development Services at 509 625-6300.

Once you know the zoning of the property use the following tables to determine the allowable signage.

Standards for Permanent Signs in RA, RSF, RTF, RMF, and RHD Zones

Setbacks in Residential Zones

  • Monument signs exceeding 3.5 feet in height shall be setback a minimum of 10 feet.
  • Freestanding signs with structural support of less than 2 feet in width and the copy placed at a minimum height of 7 feet above grade may be placed at the front property line.
  • Signs with structural supports of more than 2 feet wide shall be setback a minimum of 10 feet.
  • All signs shall meet the requirements of SMC 17C.240.240 F for clearances.

Standards for Permanent Signs in Commercial and Industrial Zones (CBD1-6, GC, CB, O, OR, NR and CC1-4)

Setbacks in Commercial and Industrial Zones

  • Freestanding signs shall not be located within the required setback from a residentially zoned property.