(A) Signs in the city may be inventoried for their architectural or historic significance whether local, state, or national. Upon application by the owner, any sign properly included in such a significance inventory may be considered by the Design Review Board for designation as a special significance sign.
(B) The Design Review Board shall review such applications.
(C) Signs meeting the following criteria may be designated signs of special significance: Signs of special significance are those of historical and/or architectural significance which directly contribute to the distinctive character of the city. Such signs shall consist of:
(1) Signs constructed at least 30 years ago;
(2) Signs whose design, material(s) and color(s) are consistent with the architectural styles and building-types to which they relate;
(3) Signs which are integral to a building and/or storefront whose design, material(s) and color(s) have not been compromised, to the point that the integrity of the original sign/building/storefront relationship no longer exists; and
(4) Signs which have been properly maintained and repaired, if necessary, by the original owner; or faithfully restored, if there is a new owner.
(D) Designated signs of special significance shall not be removed or abated as provided in § 23.21.150, unless upon a finding after a hearing the Design
Review Board determines that such exemption will have a significant adverse effect on the achievement of the purposes of this chapter.
(Ord. 4823, passed 1-22-24)