Agenda Date: 08/08/2017
Subject:
Title
Discussion on Portable Signs for Merchants with Zero Lot Lines
Body
Presented By:
Denise Stephens, Economic Development Director
POLICY QUESTION:
Does council support an ordinance amending the sign code permitting A-frame (portable signs) for businesses with zero lot lines?
BACKGROUND:
Portable signs are prohibited under City of Littleton sign code 4-3-2-5 (C) No permitted portable sign, tool or vending device shall be located in any public right of way.
Information regarding the city sign code update dated July 19, 2016 and notice of enforcement was hand-delivered to all merchants in the downtown district (see attachment Sign Code Update).
On July 19, 2016 the Littleton City Council approved a sign code update based on the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Arizona of Reed v. Gilbert. The court determined, based on the First Amendment, governments cannot regulate the content of signs. Further that types of speech must be treated equally, such as commercial and political speech.
Additionally, public sidewalks are a public facility under the Americans with Disabilities Act and must be available for access by individuals with disabilities. The City must also keep its sidewalks reasonably safe for the individuals that use such sidewalks. Several businesses in the downtown district have been asked to remove portable signs (also known as A-frame or sandwich board signs). On May 16, 2017, downtown merchants Greg Reinke and Sudee Floyd requested permission to use portable signs in the downtown district. Merchants on Main Street and some on the side streets have zero lot lines. All property from outside their front door to the street is public right-of-way.
Mayor Beckman and Council Member Hopping have asked for a study session to review a request from downtown business owners to consider allowing portable signs.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
Pros
1. Downtown merchants want the sign code changed to allow A-frame signs/portable signs...
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