Amy Mullerleile, Planning and Development, 509.625.6194
Wednesday, September 6, 2017 at 6 p.m.
The City of Spokane is working to update the rules that regulate signage throughout the City. These rules specify the size, type, location, and design of commercial and non-commercial signage on private and public property. The update is in response to changes at the local and federal level.
The City's Comprehensive Plan and existing sign code prohibit the installation of new off-premise signs (commonly referring to billboards). However, SMC 17C.240.250 allows for legally existing billboards to relocate if they have to be removed to accommodate a public works project. On April 10, 2017 the City Council unanimously adopted Emergency Ordinance C35490 imposing an immediate moratorium on the relocations of these signs so staff could develop additional standards to ensure they are relocated to appropriate sites within the City.
In addition to local concerns, in 2015 the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling in the case of Reed v. Town of Gilbert, providing new guidance for how cities are allowed to regulate non-commercial speech. The decision requires most jurisdictions nationwide to revise their sign code or risk a constitutional challenge.
City staff has also recommended several updates to help make the code clearer for applicants and staff.
The City has created a variety of opportunities for you to ask questions, provide us with feedback, or have your comments heard.
Chat with a Planner
City of Spokane planners will answer your questions during Chat with a Planner. Both Tuesday and Thursday planners will be online answering your questions posted in the Disqus discussion board below. On Wednesday, planners will facilitate a Facebook Live version of Chat with a Planner on the City’s Facebook account.
For more information about this project or opportunities to get involved, please visit the project page or contact Amy Mullerleile at 509.625.6194 or amullerleile@spokanecity.org.
