Sign changes are ahead for Sandpoint

SANDPOINT — Big changes could be coming up in the regulations governing local business signage.

For the past several months, the Sandpoint Planning and Zoning Commission has been working on changes to sign code — a topic that has prompted much debate among commission members about the balance between preserving individual flexibility while maintaining Sandpoint’s characteristic aesthetic.

The commission is ready to present those proposed changes to the public at a forum set for 5:30 p.m. Jan. 21 at Sandpoint City Hall. Afterward, the commission will factor feedback into their proposed changes before passing it on to the Sandpoint City Council. The City Council will hold a second public hearing when the matter reaches its desk.  

When beginning the project, commissioners set about crafting the new code that will govern maximum signage size and other characteristics if approved by the City Council later in 2014. They gave special consideration for signs facing the Sand Creek Byway, which contribute to the face of Sandpoint for many highway travelers.

In summary, the proposed code suggests that artistic murals aren’t counted toward allowed signage, although numbers, letters, logos and trademarks are still regulated.

Feather flags, usually cheap decorations used to attract attention to businesses, are prohibited. Rooftop signs cannot extend above the highest point of the building. Large banners for special events are allowed once per month. Portable signs have a width standard of two feet and cannot feature wheels.

Several exceptions are planned for certain businesses or organizations. For instance, size penalties to signs backlit with white or yellow light don not apply for schools, convention facilities, gas stations or venue businesses. Similarly, there are exemptions for decorative architecture features or building names and dedication dates. The same goes for public art with letters and numbers approved by the Arts Commission.  

There are a set of special standards crafted for buildings that span the width of Sand Creek. A master sign program is planned for buildings with three or more tenants. A standards and review procedure is also proposed for creative signage. Finally, an appeals provision is added for business owners.