Chapter 18.20
NONCONFORMING SIGNS

Sections:

18.20.010    Existing signs.

18.20.020    Removal – Time extension – Application.

18.20.030    Time extension – Application – Review.

18.20.040    Time extension – Granting.

18.20.050    Time extension – Ineligibility.

18.20.010 Existing signs.

The owner of a sign that is in place at a permanent location on the enactment date of the ordinance codified in this title, which does not comply with this title, is however required to comply with the following procedure. Not later than 24 months following the enactment of the ordinance codified in this title, the owner of a “nonconforming sign,” which is in place at a permanent location on the enactment date, shall take one of the following actions:

A. Remove the sign;

B. Apply for an extension of time as provided in BMC 18.20.020;

C. Apply for a permanent sign permit, subject to modifications of the sign to achieve conformity with the provisions of this title. (Ord. 77-12 N.S. § 1, 1977; prior code § 8-938).

18.20.020 Removal – Time extension – Application.

An application for an extension of the 12-month period allowed for the removal of nonconforming signs shall be filed with the planning department on a form prescribed by it. The application shall contain the name and address of the sign owner and the landowner, and identification of the property, the type of sign, the date erected, the original cost of the sign including its installation, a color photograph of the sign, a detailed statement of reasons for the extension, and the length of time for which the extension is requested. (Ord. 77-12 N.S. § 1, 1977; prior code § 8-939(a)).

18.20.030 Time extension – Application – Review.

The application shall be referred to the planning commission for review. The planning commission shall review the application and shall hear arguments for and against the grant of an extension. (Ord. 77-12 N.S. § 1, 1977; prior code § 8-939(b)).

18.20.040 Time extension – Granting.

The planning commission may grant an extension of time up to 72 months from the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title, provided the sign complied with this title on the date it was installed. (Ord. 77-12 N.S. § 1, 1977; prior code § 8-939(c)).

18.20.050 Time extension – Ineligibility.

A sign which was erected in violation of applicable sign regulations is not eligible for an extension under this chapter. (Ord. 77-12 N.S. § 1, 1977; prior code § 8-939(d)).