HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-21-2003 Planning & Economic Dev. Committee Meeting Agenda MEETING NOTICE
City of Ithaca
Planning& Economic Development Committee
Wednesday, May 21,2003
Common Council Chambers
City Hall-- 108 East Green Street
6:30 p.m.
Agenda
A. Agenda Review
B. Public Comment and Response
C. Reports - Committee Members, Chair, Mayor, Planning Director
D. Issues
1. New York State Parks Grant Application (materials enclosed) 20 minutes
2. Sign Ordinance - Resolution (materials enclosed) 1 hour
3. Commons Redesign - Discussion 20 minutes
F. Adjournment
Questions about the agenda should be directed to Paulette Manos,Chairperson(273-4170)or to the appropriate staff person
at the Department of Planning&Development(274-6550). Back-up material is available in the office of the Department of
Planning&Development. Please note that the order of agenda items is tentative and subject to change.
If you have a disability and require accommodations in order to fully participate, please contact the City
Clerk at 274-6570 by 12:00 noon on Tuesday, May 20, 2003.
On January 11, 2006, while in the process of pulling the
information from the Department files to be archived, I
discovered that there was never any minutes prepared for
May 21, 2003 meeting of the Planning & Economic
Development Committee of Common Council.
Rosemarie Tucker
Executive Assistant
-off iT..Ha"" CITY OF ITHACA /
;v `r. ^"i ' .4s 108 East Green Street 3rd Floor Ithaca,New York 14850-569
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
A!\T�0__` H.MATTHYS VAN CORT,DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
' DOUGLAS B. McDONALD, DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
JOANN CORNISH, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PLANNING&DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development -607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA- 607-274-6559
Email: planning @cityofithaca.org Email: iura @cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
To: Planning& Economic Development Committee
From: Tim Logue,Neighborhood & Economic Development Planner
Date: May 15, 2003
Re: 2003 Environmental Protection Fund and Land and Water
Conservation Fund grant opportunities
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation has announced grant
opportunities under the above-mentioned programs (the former is a state fund, the latter a federal
source). Similar types of projects may be submitted for both programs, with some restrictions,
focusing on enhancing recreational opportunities in urban areas where the residential population
is of low income and enhancing"quality communities"through the revitalization of downtown
business districts and main streets. After considering the funding priorities and rating criteria for
the programs, the Department of Planning & Development is recommending two grant
submissions, and Golf course improvements and greening - development of irrigation system
using effluent.
The first is the Winter Village Trail. This trail would connect the Six Mile Creek walk, planned
as part of the Cayuga Green project, through the Gateway development of Mack Travis, up into
the Six Mile Creek Gorge, ending at the Mulholland Wildflower Preserve entrance on Giles
Street. This trail would provide excellent recreational opportunities minutes away from the
Commons and would be easily accessible to all downtown residents, especially those in our
lower income neighborhoods.
The second is acquisition of priority properties in the upper parts of the Six Mile Creek gorge
(there is a separate application just for acquisition projects). The protection of these parcels from
development would not only preserve important views within the gorge, it would also serve to
protect the City's drinking watershed. A considerable amount of work has already taken place to
target certain critical parcels in the gorge's natural area; these parcels would be prioritized in the
grant submission.
Both the EPF and the LWCF are 50%matching,reimbursement grant programs. However,
neither of these applications would entail additional outlays of City monies. The Winter Village
trail project would be matched by the City's investment in the Cayuga Green Creekwalk. The
acquisition project would be matched by an existing reserve fund established by the City for just
such a purpose. I will be attending a workshop on these grant funds on Monday, May 19th and
will be able to give you more details at your meeting. Common Council will need to approve the
applications and an environmental review before the due date of June 20th
"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." Lea
q.*!1114"‘‘,,,, CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street 3rd Floor Ithaca,New York 14850-5690
jlffTTl,; l TTT
,.00- DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
H.MATTHYS VAN CORT,DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
DOUGLAS B. McDONALD, DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
JOANN CORNISH, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PLANNING&DEVELOPMENT
Telephone: Planning & Development -607-274-6550 Community Development/IURA- 607-274-6559
Email: planning @cityofithaca.org Email: iura @cityofithaca.org
Fax: 607-274-6558 Fax: 607-274-6558
MEMO
TO: Members, Planning and Economic Development Committee
FROM: Kate Mance, Environmental/Landscape Planner
DATE: May 13, 2003
RE: Revisions to Sign Ordinance
I have enclosed the latest revisions to the Sign Ordinance for your review prior to the
May 21st meeting of the Planning Committee. The enclosed version has all previous
changes accepted. The new tracking reflects changes recommended by Susan Blumenthal
and Jane Marcham. These changes have been reviewed by staff as well.
Please note that section 325-50A(1) contains three alternatives: the original language, and
two new options. These options were outlined to facilitate discussion in next week's
meeting.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need more information.
Cc: JoAnn Cornish
Phyllis Radke
Norma Schwab
Thys VanCort
Common Council
Doug McDonald
An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification." Lea
DRAFT --Chapter 325,Article IX
SIGNS revised 03/25/03, 05/12/03
§ 325-45. Purpose and intent.
The purpose of this chapter is to promote and protect the public health, welfare and safety by
regulating existing and proposed outdoor advertising, outdoor advertising signs and outdoor
signs of all types. It is intended to improve communications within the community, to protect
property values, to create a more attractive economic and business climate, to enhance and
protect the physical appearance of the community, to preserve the scenic and natural beauty of
designated areas and to provide a more enjoyable and pleasing community. It is further intended
hereby to reduce sign or advertising distractions and obstructions that may contribute to traffic
accidents, to reduce hazards that may be caused by signs overhanging or projecting over public
rights-of-way, to provide more open space and to curb the deterioration of natural beauty and
community environment.
§ 325-46. Title.
This chapter shall hereafter be known and cited as the "Sign Ordinance of the City of Ithaca."
§ 325-47. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, unless otherwise expressly stated, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
AWNING–An overhead structure attached to a building wall and that consists of fabric or other
material covering a frame extending at least twelve inches (12") from the face of a building.
BANNER—A temporary sign intended to be hung either with or without a frame, possessing
characters, letters, illustrations, or ornamentations applied to paper,plastic, or fabric of any kind.
A. ADVERTISEMENT BANNER—Any banner intended to act as signage to advertise a
specific business or the sale of a specific product or not-for-profit sponsored community
event or service.
B. DECORATIVE BANNER—Cloth banners designed for long-term use that are not
intended to act as signage to advertise a specific business or the sale of a specific product.
Decorative banners may, however contain sponsor tags, if they are part of a formally
approved program by the Public Art Commission.
BILLBOARD -- Any freestanding sign that advertises business conducted, services provided or
products sold on properties other than the property on which the sign is erected.
BUILDING SIGN [Added 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8] -- Any sign erected on any part of a
building or structure or on a sign structure attached to a building. For the purposes of this
chapter, a freestanding sign or sign structure, any part of which is less than five (5) feet away
from a building or structure on the same premises, shall be considered a building sign. Building
signs are further defined as follows:
A. AWNING SIGN–A sign that is painted,printed, or stenciled onto the surface of an awning.
B. CANOPY SIGN–A sign that is painted,printed, or stenciled onto the surface of a canopy.
Q:IPLANNINGISTAFF1Katelsign ordinance15-12-03 new revisions.doc Page 1
C. FASCIA SIGN -- A sign erected or painted on the horizontal fascia or eave trim of a roof,
including signs in the filled-in portion of any roof gable. Such signs shall not extend beyond
any edge of the surface on which they are mounted.
D. PERMITTED ROOF SIGN -- A sign erected on the roof of a building or structure in such a
manner that, when viewed from any public right-of-way giving access to the premises, no
part of the sign or its supporting structure projects above the roof ridge, beyond its hips or
edges nor below the eave line nor more than eighteen inches (18") beyond the plane of the
wall below. Roof signs are permitted provided they do not extend four (4) feet beyond the
height of the lowest portion of the roof.
E. WALL SIGN -- A sign fastened, painted or otherwise erected on the wall of a building so
that the wall becomes the sign's supporting structure and wholly or partially forms its
background.
F. WINDOW SIGN -- A permanent sign affixed to a window surface or in front of or behind a
window in such a manner that the window acts as its frame or background.
CANOPY—A canopy is a roof-like structure that shelters a drive lane use such as, but not
restricted to, a gasoline pump island. A canopy is open on two or more sides and may be
supported by either columns or by being attached to the building to which it is accessory.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN -- A small ground-mounted sign, the purpose of which is to direct traffic
safely into and out of the premises. Any directional signs that are affixed to an exterior wall of
the building will be considered building signs and will be calculated as part of the total allowable
building signage. See Section 325-50. [Added 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
FREESTANDING SIGN [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8] -- Any sign or sign structure
not attached to the exterior of a building or other structure and no part of which extends closer
than five (5) feet to such building or other structure on the same premises. Freestanding signs or
sign structures, any part of which is closer than five (5) feet to a building or other structure on the
same premises, shall be classified as building signs. Freestanding signs are further defined as
follows:
A. POLE SIGN -- A sign or signs mounted on a freestanding sign structure consisting of one or
more poles, columns or piers, none of which supporting members shall exceed eighteen
inches (18") in any horizontal dimension between two (2) feet and eight (8) feet above grade
level.
B. MONUMENT SIGN -- A sign or signs mounted, painted on or fastened to a freestanding
wall, pier or other sign structure, of which any horizontal dimension of a structural member
exceeds eighteen inches (18")between two (2) feet and eight (8) feet above grade level.
FRONT OR FACE OF A BUILDING -- The outer surface of a building, including the outer and
inner surface of windows thereon, visible from any private or public street or highway.
HISTORIC SIGN -- An existing exterior sign erected prior to 1950 which may or may not refer
to an occupant, business, service or product currently or previously existing or offered on the
premises on which the sign is located or within the city. Historic signs shall not be limited to
sites designated as local landmarks. Historic signs are distinguished by one or more of the
following characteristics: design; decorative character; age; historic relationship to persons,
Q:IPLANNINGISTAFFIKatelsign ordinance15-12-03 new revisions.doc Page 2 of 174
places, activities or products of the city; or their representation of early advertising techniques or
sign technology, including the use of materials, techniques and devices no longer in common use
for signage, such as but not limited to Carrara glass, painting directly on building surfaces and
exposed neon tubing. The term shall include reproductions of original signs as provided further
in § 325-60 below. [Added 7-11-1979 by Ord. No. 79-7]
ILLUMINATED SIGN -- Any sign illuminated by electricity, gas or other artificial light,
including but not limited to reflective or phosphorescent light originating from outside the body
of the sign or from within or behind it.
INFORMATIONAL SIGN -- A sign whose purpose is to inform the public of
safety hazards, of property use regulations or of the location of specific activities on the premises.
Any informational signs that are affixed to an exterior wall of the building will be considered
building signs and will be calculated as part of the total allowable building signage. [Added 8-3-
1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
LIGHTING DEVICE -- Any light, string of lights or group of lights located or arranged so as to
cast illumination on a sign face from the exterior or to illuminate a sign from its reverse side.
MURAL -- A picture, design or decorative treatment painted on or otherwise affixed to and
covering a large portion of a wall surface, including sculpture and sculptural treatments of solid
elements for the purpose of this definition. Murals may be erected on any wall of a structure.
Signage and advertising may be erected in conjunction with murals. Murals erected in
conjunction with signage shall not be considered signs for the purpose of this chapter if such
murals are clearly separate from the signage and the content and design of the mural does not
overtly represent specific goods, services or activities offered for sale. Generalized depictions of
types of goods; commonly used symbols other than trademarks, brand names and logos; and
scenes which do not specifically illustrate commercial activity may be allowed in murals.
Graphic, pictorial or representational material which is clearly subordinate to signage, which is
contained within a sign or which forms a design element integral to a sign shall be considered to
be signage rather than a mural and shall be counted as part of the signage for the premises on
which it is located. [Added 9-1-1982 by Ord. No. 82-7]
PORTABLE SIGN or MOBILE SIGN -- [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8] Any sign or
sign structure, other than a window sign, that is not permanently affixed to a building, structure
or the ground, but not including advertising on motor vehicles.
PROJECTING SIGN -- Any sign that projects from the exterior of any building.
SHOPPING PLAZA — Any group of two or more stores which share a common vehicular
entrance or entranceways and common off-street parking.
SIGN [Amended 9-1-1982 by Ord. No. 82-7] -- Any material, symbol, emblem, structure or
device, or part thereof, composed of lettered or pictorial matter or upon which lettered or
pictorial matter is placed when used or located out of doors or outside or on the exterior of any
building, including exterior and interior window surfaces, for display of an advertisement,
announcement, notice, directional matter or name, and includes sign frames, billboards,
signboards, painted wall signs, hanging signs, illuminated signs, pennants, fluttering devices,
projecting signs or grounds signs, and shall also include any announcement, declaration,
Q:IPLANNINGISTAFFIKatelsign ordinance15-12-03 new revisions.doc Page 3 of 171-7
demonstration, display, illustration or insignia used to advertise or promote the interests of any
person or business when the same is placed in view of the general public.
A. The term "sign" includes signs related and unrelated to a business or profession or to a
commodity or service sold or offered upon the premises where such sign is located.
B. For the purposes of this chapter, the term "sign" does not include signs erected and
maintained pursuant to and in discharge of any governmental function or required by any
law, ordinance or governmental regulation, nor does it include flags, emblems or symbols of
a nation, governmental body or school, nor memorial tablets or historical markers, nor does
it include murals, as defined above.
SIGN AREA -- The surface area of a sign that is within view of a public right-of-way, visible
from any one point of view. For measurement purposes, the sign surface area shall be calculated
as follows:
A. For rectangular wall signs: that area of the smallest rectangle that can be placed over the
entire sign, including its lettering, pictorial matter or devices, frame and decorative moldings
along its edges and background, if of a different color than the predominant color
surrounding the sign. [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
B. For irregular wall signs: that area defined by the edges of the sign, including all lettering,
pictorial matter or devices, frame and decorative moldings and background, if of a different
color than the predominant color surrounding the sign. [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No.
77-8]
C. For letters, pictorial matter or devices not attached to frames or freestanding: that area
defined by the smallest rectangle or rectangles that can be placed over any series of letters
pictorial matter or devices which can be considered as a unit. In the event that both
uppercase and lowercase letters are used, the area shall be defined by the smallest rectangles
that can be placed over the series of lowercase letters plus the area of the smallest rectangles
that can be placed over the individual uppercase letters. In the event that a letter or letters or
other pictorial matter is placed as a separate unit on background boards, the sign area shall
be calculated as the sum of the areas of the background boards. [Amended 8-3-1977 by
Ord. No. 77-8]
D. For freestanding double-faced signs: the area of one entire side of the sign calculated as
above.
E. For multiple-sided signs: the maximum area visible from any one point of view.
F. For signs on other than flat surfaces: the maximum actual surface area visible from any one
point of view.
SIGN STRUCTURE -- Any structural framework or base intended to support a sign or signs, but
not including the sign, sign frame or background. Sign structures whose separate nature and
purpose as support for signage is apparent shall not be counted as part of the sign area permitted
by this chapter, but any sign structure or portion thereof which, by shape, material, color or other
means, serves as a sign box, frame or background or which serves to identify the premises, its
proprietors or owners or the products, services or activities provided on the premises shall be
considered a sign as defined above. [Added 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
Q:IPLANNINGISTAFF\Kate\sign ordinance15-12-03 new revisions.doc Page 4 of 174
TEMPORARY SIGN — Any sign constructed of cloth, paper, canvas, plastic or light fabric,
wallboard or other light, impermanent material with or without frames intended to be displayed
for a limited period of time only. [Added 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
TO ERECT -- To build, construct, alter, display, relocate, attach, hang, place, suspend, affix or
maintain any sign, and shall also include the painting of exterior wall signs.
§ 325-48. General regulations. [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
The prohibitions contained in this section shall apply to all signs and all use districts, regardless
of designation, of the City of Ithaca, unless otherwise provided herein:
A. Types of Signs.
1. Projecting signs. No sign shall be erected or maintained in which any portion of the sign
or its supporting structure projects a horizontal distance of more than eighteen inches
(18") from the surface to which the sign or sign structure is attached, except as provided
in § 325-60 below. [Amended 7-11-1979 by Ord. No. 79-7]
2. Overhead signs. No sign shall be supported or attached, wholly or in part, over or above
any wall, building or structure, except as otherwise provided in below for canopy,
marquee or awning signs, which may not project beyond any edge of the building or
structure to which the awning, canopy or marquee is attached, and except as otherwise
provided for ground signs and sign structures and for permitted roof signs.
3. Canopy, awning, and marquee signs. Signs on the front or sides or affixed to the top edge
or bottom surface of a marquee, canopy, awning or sunscreen shall be counted as part of
the total area and number of signs permitted the premises under this chapter and shall be
subject to computation of area and payment of fees as covered in this chapter. Such signs
shall not project more than eighteen inches (18") from the surface to which they are
attached nor extend beyond any edge of such surface, except that signs affixed to the top
edge of a marquee or similar structure shall not project beyond the front of the side face
above which it is mounted; and except further that such marquee signs may be more than
eighteen inches (18") tall, provided that they do not project visually above the top of the
building facade or roof ridge when viewed from the public right-of-way.(See Chapter
170, Encroachments) Signs affixed to the underside of a marquee or similar structure
shall maintain a clearance of at least seven (7) feet above grade or sidewalk level and
shall not project more than four(4) feet from the building. [Added 8-3-1977 by Ord. No.
77-8]
B. Encroachments. Signs may be mounted on structures or portions of structures which form
encroachments, provided that if such signs form an additional encroachment, they shall be
subject to the provisions of Chapter 170, Encroachments, of this Code in addition to the
payment of required sign permit fees. [Added 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
C. Pedestrian Hazard. All signs or other advertising structures, which are erected at any point
where pedestrians might be endangered, shall have a smooth surface and no nails, tacks or
wires shall be permitted to protrude there from.
D. Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements. All signs shall be designed and constructed to
withstand wind pressure to receive loads as required by the Building Code.
Q:IPLANNINGISTAFF1Katelsign ordinance15-12-03 new revisions.doc Page 5 of 171-7
E. Site Plan. Whenever a site plan is required to be filed, the site plan shall show the proposed
location of any signs to be erected on the property and shall define the size and height of the
signs with dimensions and elevation views as well as the street and driveway visibility.
§ 325-49. Prohibited signs.
A. The following signs shall be prohibited in all zones of the city:
1. Any sign which violates any provision of law or code of the State of New York or of the
United States;
2. Any sign which obstructs a door, fire escape or building opening intended for light, air or
access to a building;
3. Any sign of which all or any part is in motion by any means, including fluttering, rotating
or other moving signs set in motion by movement of the atmosphere;
4. Any sign displaying flashing or intermittent lights or lights changing degrees of intensity,
except a sign indicating time or temperature, with changes alternating on not more than
five-second cycles when such time or temperature sign does not constitute a public safety
or traffic hazard in the judgment of the City building commissioner; provided, however,
that no such sign shall be permitted in any historic district;
5. Any sign that obscures a sign displayed by public authority for the purpose of giving
traffic instructions or direction or other public information;
6. Any sign that uses the words "stop," "danger," "slow," "caution," "warning," "yield,"
"go," or otherwise presents or implies the need or requirement of stopping or caution, or
the existence of danger, or which is likely to be confused with any sign displayed by
public authority or any sign that imitates or resembles an official traffic sign or signal,
except for private, on-premise directional signs.
7. Any sign or illumination that causes any direct glare into or upon any building other than
the building to which the sign may be related, or any sign whose level of intensity
exceeds the average ambient levels in the immediate area;
8. All displays which are not shielded to prevent any light to be directed at oncoming traffic
in such brilliance as to impair the vision of any driver. No device shall be illuminated in
such manner as to interfere with or obscure an official traffic sign or signal.
9. Any billboards or portable or mobile signs.
§ 325-50. Signs permitted in all districts.
A. Permit not required. The following signs are permitted in any use district without a permit, as
noted: [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
1. Signs temporarily advertising the sale, lease or rental of the premises upon which the sign
is located, which signs shall not exceed fifteen (15) square feet in area, except in
residential districts, where said signs shall not exceed five (5) square feet. In all zones, all
such signs must be removed within 30 days of sale or lease of the premises.
Alternative 1:
Q:IPLANNINGISTAFF\Katelsign ordinance15-12-03 new revisions.doc Page 6 of 174
f
1. Signs advertising the sale, lease or rental of the premises upon which the sign is located.
Each property shall be limited to one (1) such sign, except with regard to parking, as
follows:
(a) Signs temporarily advertising the premises for sale in SW-2, SW-3, WEDZ-la and
I-1 zones shall not exceed fifteen (15) square feet; in all other areas, said signs shall
not exceed five (5) square feet. In all zones, such signs shall be unlimited in
duration except that they must be removed within thirty(30) days of sale of the
premises.
(b) Signs advertising the premises for rent shall not exceed five (5) square feet in size
except in residential districts, where said signs shall not exceed one (1) square foot
and be attached only to the front face of a building. The top edge of the sign shall
not exceed the height of the top of the front door.
(c) Signs advertising rental of premises for parking of vehicles shall not exceed two (2)
square feet in size in all districts and are unlimited in duration. Each property may
display one (1) such parking rental sign visible from a public way, which can be in
addition to a sale or rental sign on the same premises. In residential zones,
freestanding signs advertising rental of premises for parking of vehicles shall not be
permitted in front yards.
(d) Informational signs in residential zones shall be subject to the following
regulations: Each property shall be limited to one (1) such sign. Informational
signs shall not exceed two (2) square feet in area and shall not have letters
exceeding two (2) inches in height. Informational signs are not permitted in front
yards or attached to the front face of a building or any appurtenance attached
thereto. If placed on any portion of the face of a building, the top edge of
informational signs shall not exceed five (5) feet from ground level.
Alternative 2:
1. Signs temporarily advertising the premises for sale in SW-2, SW-3, WEDZ-la and I-1
zones shall not exceed fifteen (15) square feet; in all other areas, said signs shall not
exceed five (5) square feet. In all zones, such signs shall be unlimited in duration except
that they must be removed within thirty(30) days of sale of the premises.
2. No signs advertising the premises for rent are allowed in any residential district.
2. Any temporary political posters, which signs shall not exceed fifteen (15) square feet in
area, except in residential districts,where said signs shall not exceed five(5) square feet.
3. Nameplates, not self-illuminated, denoting the names and/or address of the occupants of
the premises, not exceeding one hundred forty-four(144) square inches per occupant.
4. Signs denoting the architects, engineers and/or contractors placed on premises where
construction, repair or renovation is in progress, not exceeding one (1) sign per premises
and not exceeding five (5) square feet in area in residential zones and fifteen (15) square
feet in area in all other zones; provided, however, that such signs shall be removed
immediately upon completion of the project.
Q:IPLANNING\STAFF\Kate\sign ordinance15-12-03 new revisions.doc Page 7 of 174-7
E. Site Plan. Whenever a site plan is required to be filed, the site plan shall show the proposed
location of any signs to be erected on the property and shall define the size and height of the
signs with dimensions and elevation views as well as the street and driveway visibility.
§ 325-49. Prohibited signs.
A. The following signs shall be prohibited in all zones of the city:
1. Any sign which violates any provision of law or code of the State of New York or of the
United States;
2. Any sign which obstructs a door, fire escape or building opening intended for light, air or
access to a building;
3. Any sign of which all or any part is in motion by any means, including fluttering, rotating
or other moving signs set in motion by movement of the atmosphere;
4. Any sign displaying flashing or intermittent lights or lights changing degrees of intensity,
except a sign indicating time or temperature, with changes alternating on not more than
five-second cycles when such time or temperature sign does not constitute a public safety
or traffic hazard in the judgment of the City building commissioner; provided, however,
that no such sign shall be permitted in any historic district;
5. Any sign that obscures a sign displayed by public authority for the purpose of giving
traffic instructions or direction or other public information;
6. Any sign that uses the words "stop," "danger," "slow," "caution," "warning," "yield,"
"go," or otherwise presents or implies the need or requirement of stopping or caution, or
the existence of danger, or which is likely to be confused with any sign displayed by
public authority or any sign that imitates or resembles an official traffic sign or signal,
except for private, on-premise directional signs.
7. Any sign or illumination that causes any direct glare into or upon any building other than
the building to which the sign may be related, or any sign whose level of intensity
exceeds the average ambient levels in the immediate area;
8. All displays which are not shielded to prevent any light to be directed at oncoming traffic
in such brilliance as to impair the vision of any driver. No device shall be illuminated in
such manner as to interfere with or obscure an official traffic sign or signal.
9. Any billboards or portable or mobile signs.
§ 325-50. Signs permitted in all districts.
A. Permit not required. The following signs are permitted in any use district without a permit, as
noted: [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
1. Signs temporarily advertising the sale, lease or rental of the premises upon which the sign
is located, which signs shall not exceed fifteen (15) square feet in area, except in
residential districts, where said signs shall not exceed five (5) square feet. In all zones, all
such signs must be removed within 30 days of sale or lease of the premises.
Alternative 1:
Q:IPLANNINGISTAFF\Kate\sign ordinance15-12-03 new revisions.doc Page 6 of 17
1. Signs advertising the sale, lease or rental of the premises upon which the sign is located.
Each property shall be limited to one(1) such sign, except with regard to parking, as
follows:
(a) Signs temporarily advertising the premises for sale in SW-2, SW-3, WEDZ-la and
I-1 zones shall not exceed fifteen(15) square feet; in all other areas, said signs shall
not exceed five (5) square feet. In all zones, such signs shall be unlimited in
duration except that they must be removed within thirty(30) days of sale of the
premises.
(b) Signs advertising the premises for rent shall not exceed five (5) square feet in size
except in residential districts,where said signs shall not exceed one(1) square foot
and be attached only to the front face of a building. The top edge of the sign shall
not exceed the height of the top of the front door.
(c) Signs advertising rental of premises for parking of vehicles shall not exceed two (2)
square feet in size in all districts and are unlimited in duration. Each property may
display one (1) such parking rental sign visible from a public way,which can be in
addition to a sale or rental sign on the same premises. In residential zones,
freestanding signs advertising rental of premises for parking of vehicles shall not be
permitted in front yards.
(d) Informational signs in residential zones shall be subject to the following
regulations: Each property shall be limited to one (1) such sign. Informational
signs shall not exceed two (2) square feet in area and shall not have letters
exceeding two (2) inches in height. Informational signs are not permitted in front
yards or attached to the front face of a building or any appurtenance attached
thereto. If placed on any portion of the face of a building, the top edge of
informational signs shall not exceed five (5) feet from ground level.
Alternative 2:
1. Signs temporarily advertising the premises for sale in SW-2, SW-3, WEDZ-la and. I-1
zones shall not exceed fifteen(15) square feet; in all other areas, said signs shall not
exceed five (5) square feet. In all zones, such signs shall be unlimited in duration except
that they must be removed within thirty(30) days of sale of the premises.
2. No signs advertising the premises for rent are allowed in any residential district.
2. Any temporary political posters, which signs shall not exceed fifteen (15) square feet in
area, except in residential districts,where said signs shall not exceed five(5) square feet.
3. Nameplates, not self-illuminated, denoting the names and/or address of the occupants of
the premises, not exceeding one hundred forty-four(144) square inches per occupant.
4. Signs denoting the architects, engineers and/or contractors placed on premises where
construction, repair or renovation is in progress, not exceeding one (1) sign per premises
and not exceeding five (5) square feet in area in residential zones and fifteen (15) square
feet in area in all other zones; provided, however, that such signs shall be removed
immediately upon completion of the project.
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5. Directional entrance/exit signs on premises, each not exceeding six (6) square feet in area,
nor three (3) feet in height from grade, and no part of such signs or supporting structures
may extend closer than eighteen (18") inches to any public right-of-way. One each "in"
and "out" signs are permitted per curb cut serving premises in B-5, SW-1, SW-2, and
SW-3 Districts, and the "in" sign may bear one word or symbol identifying the business
(such as "Smith's" or "Gulf') occupying the premises in lieu of"in," "enter," etc., which
identifier may not cover more than 25%of the total area of the directional sign.
6. Signs or bulletin boards customarily incident to places of worship, libraries, museums,
social clubs or societies, which signs or bulletin board shall not exceed twenty-five (25)
square feet in area and shall be located on the premises of such institutions.
7. Murals. [Added 9-1-1982 by Ord. No. 82-7]
(a) Where any part of a mural will be visible from a public way, a description and a
drawing of the proposed mural shall be submitted to the Building Commissioner
for a determination as to whether such mural, or any part thereof, would constitute
signage within the meaning of the definitions of "mural" and "sign" in § 325-47
above. The description submitted shall fully explain the proposal in terms of size,
location on the property, graphic/pictorial content and relationship to any signage
existing or proposed for the property to aid the Building Commissioner in making
his/her determination.
(b) Upon receipt of a proposal for a mural for any property subject to the provisions of
Chapter 325, Zoning, § 325-42, Design review, or Article VIII, Courthouse Special
Use Zone, or Chapter 228, Landmarks Preservation, of this Code or facing such
property, the Building Commissioner shall notify the Design Review Board, the
Public Art Commission and/or the Landmarks Commission, as applicable, for their
information and any appropriate action and shall so inform the applicant.
(c) Upon determination by the Building Commissioner that a proposed mural does not
constitute signage, murals not subject to further review as indicated above may be
erected without permit or fee. Murals or any part thereof which are determined to
be signage shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter for signs.
B. Permit required. The following signs require a permit as provided herein:
1. Residential Zones. For properties with up to fifty(50) feet of building frontage, Any sign
advertising the name of a building or a commercial enterprise, including real estate
developments or subdivisions, permitted in a district zoned residential by any zoning
regulation shall not exceed five (5) square feet in area and shall advertise only the name
of the building, owner, trade names, products sold and/or the business or activity
conducted on the premises where such sign is located, provided that no more than one
sign shall be allowed for each such residential, business or commercial activity conducted
on the premises, and it shall in all respects conform to the provisions of this chapter
respecting signs permitted for establishments in business districts. For properties with
more than 50 feet of building frontage, such signs shall not exceed twelve (12) square
feet.
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2. Commercial Zones. For any commercial building in any zone except the SW-1, SW-2,
SW-3, WEDZ-la, B-5, or the I-1 zone may have a total sign area not to exceed one and
one half (1.5) square feet of signage to every one (1) linear foot of building frontage.
Within the total allowable signage each place of business may have no more than one (1)
freestanding sign or structure erected for the purpose of advertising a business, products
and/or services, with a maximum height of twenty-two (22) feet, including framework.
No individual sign may exceed a maximum square footage of fifty (50) square feet. In
lieu of one (1) freestanding sign a business is allowed two (2) wall signs. Such wall signs
shall not exceed a total of fifty(50) square feet each.
(a) Exception. In all districts except residential, where a structure or building has
frontage on more than one street, public highway or waterway, one sign attached,
painted on or applied to the front or face of said structure or building shall be
permitted facing each street, public highway or waterway frontage, within the
overall allowance for number of signs and total sign area for the Zoning District
and use type as specified in this chapter, which maximums shall apply to the
premises as a whole. [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
(b) Any sign advertising the name of a residential building, including real estate
developments or subdivisions, permitted in a district zoned commercial shall not
exceed twelve (12) square feet in area and shall advertise only the name of the
building, provided that no more than one sign shall be allowed for each such
residential activity conducted on the premises, and it shall in all respects conform to
the provisions of this chapter respecting signs permitted for establishments in
business districts. In cases where signs advertising residential uses are located on
buildings which combine commercial and residential uses in the same structure,
such signs shall be included within the overall allowance for total sign area for the
Zoning District as specified in this chapter, which maximums shall apply to the
premises as a whole.
3. Temporary signs, as provided further under § 325-52 below.
4. Historic signs, as provided further under § 325-60 below. [Added 7-11-1979 by Ord.
No. 79-7]
§ 325-51. Signs permitted in the SW-1, SW-2, SW-3,WEDZ-la,B-5zones.
A. In districts zoned SW-1, SW-2, SW-3, WEDZ-1a, B-5, or I-1 by the Zoning Ordinance of
the City of Ithaca,New York, no signs shall be erected or maintained, except as follows:
1. Freestanding businesses may have one freestanding sign not to exceed one half (.5) a
square foot to every one (1) linear foot of the building frontage occupied by the business
and not to exceed seventy-five (75) square feet in area, a width of twelve (12) feet, and
not to exceed a maximum height of twenty-two (22) feet, including the framework. In
addition the freestanding business may have building signs not to exceed one and one half
(1.5) square feet of sign area to every one (1) linear foot of building frontage or of
building frontage occupied by each business conducted on the premises, the total of both
freestanding and building signs not to exceed a total area of two-hundred and fifty (250)
square feet. See below for setback bonus information.
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2. Shopping Plazas may have one (1) freestanding sign structure located on the property at
each major entrance to the Shopping Plaza at a location approved by the Planning and
Development Board as a part of the site plan review process, in accordance with Section
276-7(3)b of the City Code. No freestanding sign structure shall exceed a maximum
height of thirty (30) feet and maximum sign area width of twelve (12) feet. Each
individual business within a shopping plaza may have a maximum sign area on the
freestanding structure of one half(.5) a square foot of sign to every one (1) linear foot of
the building frontage occupied by that business. In addition each business within a
shopping plaza may have building signs that do not exceed one and one half(1.5) square
feet of sign to every one (1) linear foot of building frontage occupied by the business and
not to exceed total area of two-hundred and fifty(250) square feet. See below for setback
bonus information.
(a) Wall Sign Setback Bonus: Wall signs that are setback from the public street right-
of-way over one hundred and fifty feet (150') can increase the maximum primary
wall signage size by 25%, and increase it an additional 25% for every additional
one hundred feet (100') of setback; up to a maximum of 200% of the allowed sign
area at four hundred and fifty feet (450'). The setback shall be measured from the
center point of the building frontage perpendicular to the center line of the public
right of way.
Over 150' linear feet setback, 125% of allowed sign area, or a maximum of 312.50 square
feet, whichever is less,
Over 250' linear feet setback, 150% of allowed sign area, or a maximum of 375 square feet,
whichever is less,
Over 350' linear feet setback, 175% of allowed sign area, or a maximum of 437.50 square
feet,whichever is less,
Over 450' linear feet setback, 200% of allowed sign area, or a maximum of 500 square feet,
whichever is less*
*Under no circumstances shall the primary wall signage exceed five hundred (500) square
feet regardless of wall size or increased setbacks, nor shall any one wall sign exceed a total
of two hundred fifty (250)square feet.
(b) Filling Stations. Filling Stations located within a Shopping Plaza may have two (2)
wall signs or two (2) canopy signs or a combination of one (1)wall sign and one (1)
canopy sign. No individual sign may exceed fifty (50) square feet, with the total
signage not to exceed 100 square feet. In addition, filling stations may have a
maximum of two (2)price signs not to exceed fifteen (15) square feet each.
(c) Directional Signs. One directional sign may be erected per interior access road
intersection within a shopping plaza. Each sign may not exceed fifteen (15) square
feet in area.
3. Exception. Where a structure or building has frontage on more than one public or private
street, highway or waterway, one sign attached, painted on or applied to the front or face
of said structure or building shall be permitted facing each street, highway or waterway
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frontage, as provided in section 325-50 B2(a) above. [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No.
77-8]
§ 325-52. Temporary signs. [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
A. Permit required. No person or sponsoring organization which is commercial or otherwise
profit-making shall place or cause to be placed any sign of a temporary nature without first
obtaining a permit as hereinafter provided. Permit fees are waived for all legal not for profit
organizations.
B. Exemptions. Temporary signs advertising an event for less than ten (10) days are exempt
from the permit requirement, provided that the sign be removed immediately following the
event. Signs temporarily advertising the sale, lease or rental of the premises upon which the
sign is located, temporary political posters, and signs denoting the architects, engineers
and/or contractors placed on premises where construction, repair or renovation is in progress
are also exempt from the permit requirement, as provided in § 325-50 above. Decorative
cloth banners designed for long-term use, reviewed by the Public Art Commission and as
approved by the Building Department are exempt from the permit time period. However,
should the banner become damaged or severely worn, it must be removed immediately.
C. Time periods. Signs of a temporary nature_, . - . :• -.-- , : : •- : •: . :- • - . •: - --
cigns of a similar nature, may be erected with a permit for a period not exceeding sixty (60)
days, provided that the consent of the property owner or occupant is obtained and that such
signs are not attached to fences, trees, utility poles or the like and that such signs are not
placed in such a position as may obstruct or impair vision or traffic or in any manner create a
nuisance, hazard or disturbance to the health and welfare of the general public. All such sign
permitss must identify the name and address of the sponsoring person or organization and the
name of a person responsible for their removal at the expiration of the sixty(60) day period.
Such permits may be renewed no more than once a year for an additional thirty (30) day
period. A temporary sign will not be re-permitted for more than two (2) consecutive time
periods, regardless of whether or not it remains in the same location.
D. Exception for B-5, SW-1, SW-2, and SW-3 Zones. In B-5, SW-1, SW-2, and SW-3 Zones,
no temporary signs shall be placed anywhere on a premises except in a window, and in no
case shall the total combined area of permanent and temporary signs in a window exceed
fifteen percent (15%) of a window's area.
§ 325-53. Setbacks. [Amended 8-3-1977 by Ord. No. 77-8]
A. In all zones except B-5, SW-1, SW-2, and SW-3, no freestanding sign or sign structure shall
be erected or maintained in such a manner as to project over or above any street, public
highway or waterway, nor shall any such freestanding sign be erected or maintained in such a
manner as to project within eighteen inches (18") of a public or private right-of-way or the
inner edge of a public highway, sidewalk or waterway. Said signs or sign structures shall be
set back at least ten (10) feet from any public highway or street right-of-way. Side yard and
rear yard setbacks shall be no less than those required for structures or buildings in the
Zoning Ordinance of the City of Ithaca, New York, and for the zoning district in which the
property is located.
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B. In SW-1, SW-2, and SW-3 Zones, freestanding signs or sign structures must be set back at
least ten (10) feet from any public right-of-way. No part of a freestanding sign shall project
closer than five (5) feet to any public right-of-way or to any property line nor closer than
eighteen inches (18") to any private right-of-way or to the edge of any access to the premises.
C. In B-5 Zones, pole signs must be set back at least ten (10) feet from any public right-of-way.
Ground signs in B-5 Zones shall be set back not less than fifteen (15) feet from any public
right-of-way or from the edge of any access drive to the premises. No part of any freestanding
sign shall project closer than five (5) feet to any public right-of-way or to any property line
nor closer than eighteen inches (18") to any private right-of-way or to the edge of any access
to the premises. Side and rear yard setbacks shall be no less than those required for buildings
and structures in the B-5 Zone.
§ 325-54. Permit required.
Except as otherwise herein provided, no person shall erect any sign, as defined herein, without
first obtaining a permit from the Building Commissioner.
§ 325-55. Application for permit.
A. Application for the permit shall be made to the Building Commissioner, in writing, in
duplicate, upon forms prescribed and provided by the Building Commissioner, and shall
contain the following information:
1. The name, address and telephone number of both the applicant and the owner of the
property on which the sign is to be located.
2. The location of the building, structure or land to which or upon which the sign is to be
attached or erected.
3. A detailed drawing or blueprints showing a description of the construction details of the
sign and showing the lettering and/or pictorial matter composing the sign; the position of
lighting or other extraneous devices; and a location plan showing the position of the sign
on any building or land and its position in relation to nearby buildings or structures and to
any private or public street or highway.
4. Written consent of the owner of the building, structure or land to which or on which the
sign is to be erected in the event that the applicant is not the owner thereof.
5. A copy of any required or necessary electrical permit issued for said sign or a copy of the
application for such permit
6. Such additional information as the Building Commissioner may reasonably require in
order to carry out the intent of this chapter.
§ 325-56. Permit fees.
A. [Amended 2-4-1998 by Ord. No. 98-6] The following fees shall be paid to the City of
Ithaca,New York, upon filing of an application for a sign permit:
Sign Area (square feet) Fee Per Sign
0 to 50 $50
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51 to 100 $100
101 to 150 $150
151 to 200 $200
201 to 250 $250
251 to 300 $300
301 to 350 $350
351-400 $400
401-450 $450
451-500 $500
For each additional square foot of signage allowed by variance, the cost shall be $500 + $10 per
each additional square foot.
B. For the purpose of establishing the fee, the calculated square-foot area of the sign shall be
rounded to the nearest whole square foot.
§ 325-57. Issuance, expiration and renewal of permit.
A. Building Commissioner to investigate and issue permit. It shall be the duty of the Building
Commissioner, upon the filing of an application for a permit to erect a sign, to examine such
plans, specifications and other data submitted to him/her with the application and, if
necessary, the building or premises upon which it is proposed to erect the sign or other
advertising structure. If it shall appear that the proposed sign is in compliance with all the
requirements of this chapter and other laws and ordinances of the City of Ithaca, New York,
the Building Commissioner shall then, within fifteen (15) days, issue a permit for the erection
of the proposed sign.
B. Expiration and renewal. If the sign authorized under any such permit has not been fully
erected within six (6) months from the date of the issuance of such permit, the permit shall
become null and void.
§ 325-58. Conformance required; maintenance; revocation of permit.
A. Erection. No sign, whether new or existing, shall hereafter be erected or altered except in
conformity with the provisions of this chapter. Alterations shall include any modification to
a sign other than minor corrections to information, ie. changes in phone numbers.
B. Maintenance. Notwithstanding any provisions contained herein, the sign must be kept clean,
in neat order and repair and free from all hazards, such as but not limited to faulty wiring and
loose fastenings, and must be maintained at all times in such safe condition so as not to be
detrimental to the public health or safety.
C. Revocation for failure to correct violation. In the event of a violation of any of the foregoing
provisions, the Building Commissioner shall give written notice, specifying the violation, to
the named owner of the sign and the named owner of the land upon which the sign is erected,
sent to the addresses as stated in the application for the sign permit, to conform or remove
such sign. The sign shall thereupon be conformed by the owner of the sign and the owner of
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the land within sixty (60) days from the date of said notice. In the event that such sign shall
not be so conformed within sixty (60) days, the Building Commissioner shall thereupon
revoke the permit, and such sign shall be removed by the named owner of the sign or the
named owner of the land within thirty(30) days after receipt of notice of permit revocation.
D. Removal of Signs. Property Owners are responsible for removing signs of businesses that
have closed and must remove signs within sixty(60) days of the tenant vacating the premises.
§ 325-59. Unsafe or dangerous signs.
If the Building Commissioner shall find that any sign regulated by this chapter is unsafe or
insecure or is a menace to the public, he/she shall give written notice to the named owner of the
sign and the named owner of the land upon which the sign is erected, who shall remove or repair
said sign within fourteen (14) days from the date of said notice. If said sign is not removed or
repaired, the Building Commissioner shall revoke the permit issued for such sign, as herein
provided, and may remove or repair said sign and shall assess all costs and expenses incurred in
said removal or repair against the land or building on which such sign was located. The Building
Commissioner may cause any sign, which is a source of immediate peril to person or property or
any temporary sign not removed at the expiration of thirty (30) days to be removed summarily
and without notice.
§ 325-60. Historic signs. [Added 7-11-1979 by Ord. No. 79-7]
Historic signs in any zoning district shall be exempt from the requirements to conform, and from
other requirements of this chapter, provided that an approved historic sign permit is obtained in
accordance with the following:
A. Procedure.
1. Requests for retention of signs which are felt to be historic may be made to the Building
Commissioner by the owner of the property on which such sign is located, by the owner's
agent or by any other party with the owner's consent and shall be made in writing. Each
such request shall be accompanied by a statement outlining the reason for the request,
including written or pictorial information documenting the sign's history, original and
current purpose, colors and other relevant details which may be helpful in evaluating the
request.
2. Upon receipt of a completed request form and supporting documentation, the Building
Commissioner shall refer the applicant to the Landmarks Commission for a determination
as to whether the sign is historic. Upon receipt of a determination from the Landmarks
Commission, the Building Commissioner shall determine whether the sign is related
directly to uses currently existing on the premises and, if so, shall proceed as if it were a
regular sign permit application, subject to the following:
(a) Signs determined by the Landmarks Commission to be historic shall be permitted in
addition to conforming signage currently existing on the premises but shall be
counted in computing the amount of signage permitted on the premises in the event
that additional signs are applied for. Nonconforming, nonhistoric signage on the
premises shall be treated as provided in § 325-59 and shall not preclude approval of
historic signs.
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(b) Consistent with considerations of safety, such signs shall be permitted to retain
their original size, shape, location, method of attachment, illumination, projection
from building surface and other characteristics. Modifications thereto for any
purpose shall respect the character and appearance of the original sign, and the
reasons for such modification shall be clearly explained in the application.
(c) If such sign would be in any respect nonconforming to the provisions of this
chapter, it shall be referred to the Board of Zoning Appeals for approval.
3. Historic signs which are clearly unrelated to existing uses of the premises and which
conform in all other respects to the requirements of this chapter may be approved without
referral to the Board of Zoning Appeals, and shall not be counted against the signage
permitted on the premises so long as they remain functionally unrelated to existing uses
thereon. Historic signs forming an integral part of the original design or ornament of a
building shall not be required to be removed, conformed or obliterated in order to comply
with the terms of this chapter but shall be reviewed as provided by this subsection.
B. Signs on landmark sites. Signs on sites designated as local landmarks shall be referred to the
Landmarks Commission for a determination and a certificate of appropriateness before
approval action by the Building Commissioner or Board of Zoning Appeals. Signs on sites
designated as having state or national historic significance but not locally designated shall be
referred to the Landmarks Commission for determination as to whether they are historic and
shall be governed by applicable regulations.
C. Maintenance,repair, alteration and restoration.
1. Approved historic signs shall be maintained in accordance with the provisions of this
chapter and other applicable regulations. Approval of an historic sign permit shall bear
with it the responsibility of the owner of the sign to maintain and rehabilitate the sign to a
state as close to the original condition and appearance as feasible, including the
restoration of exposed neon-type illuminating systems to operation. Replacement of
original visible components with substitutes to retain the original appearance shall be
permitted, provided that such replacements accurately reproduce the size, shape, color
and finish of the original.
2. Alterations or repairs to historic signs shall be accomplished using materials which match
original materials as closely as possible and which, in any case, are compatible with the
original. Historic signs which are severely damaged or deteriorated or which are for other
good reason impractical to rehabilitate or repair in their existing condition, including
signs remaining basically intact in their original location which have been partly obscured
by overpainting or weathering or which have been covered by subsequent building
remodeling, may be reproduced in a format as closely matching the original as possible
and may be relocated or erected in a position near the original location, consistent with
the other provisions of this chapter and with consideration of aesthetics. Alterations,
reproductions or relocations of historic signs shall be referred to the Landmarks
Commission for approval or a certificate of appropriateness.
3. In the event that a historic sign is not rehabilitated or maintained in accordance with the
terms of this subsection within one year of the issuance of a historic sign permit, the
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Building Commissioner shall be authorized to require its maintenance, repair or removal
as provided in §§ 325-58 and 325-59.
§ 325-61. Duty and authority of Planning and Development Board.
The Planning and Development Board shall advise the Building Commissioner with reference to
desirable and effective use of signs for the purpose of enhancing and maintaining the natural
beauty and cultural and aesthetic standards of the community. The Planning and Development
Board may advertise, prepare, print and distribute pamphlets and other media which, in its
judgment, will further these purposes.
§ 325-62. Variances, review and appeal. [Amended 2-4-1998 by Ord. No. 98-6]
Any person aggrieved by any decision of the Building Commissioner relative to the provisions of
this chapter may appeal such decision to the Board of Zoning Appeals, as provided in Chapter
325, Zoning, of this Code and shall comply with all procedural requirements prescribed by said
Board of Zoning Appeals, including payment of a fee of one hundred dollars ($100)to defray the
cost of the required legal notice and written notice to all property owners within two hundred
(200) feet of the boundaries of the proposed sign location. However, when any variance, review
or appeal relative to the provisions of this chapter is requested, the Board of Zoning Appeals
shall not take action until a report is received from the Planning and Development Board. If,
however, no report is received within forty-five (45) days after referral, then approval by the
Planning and Development Board shall be presumed, and the Board of Zoning Appeals shall
proceed accordingly. In making any determination or decision with respect to any proposed sign,
any city officer or any board having jurisdiction shall be guided by the general purpose of this
chapter, as stated in § 325-45 hereof, and shall also consider the following:
A. Size of sign. The purpose for which the sign is erected and the distance from which the sign
is intended to be or can possibly be read and the character of adjacent streets shall be taken
into consideration. In all cases, the smallest sign that will suit the purpose shall be the guide,
taking into account the legitimate commercial or other interests which are intended to be
promoted by the sign and the speed limits and traffic conditions on adjacent streets.
B. Number of letters. A sign with only a few letters need not be as large as one with many letters
to be seen from the same distance.
C. Other signs. The context of existing signs in the vicinity of the proposed sign shall be taken
into consideration.
D. The character of the neighborhood. The proposed use shall not be detrimental to the general
amenity or neighborhood character so as to cause a devaluation of neighboring property or
material inconvenience to neighboring inhabitants or material interference with the use and
enjoyment by the inhabitants of the neighboring property.
E. Public interest. The protection of the public interest and the desirability of maintaining open
spaces, views and vistas shall be considered insofar as possible. Any person aggrieved by any
decision of the Board of Zoning Appeals may have the decision reviewed by a Special Term
of the Supreme Court in the manner provided by Article 78 of the Civil Practice Law and
Rules.
§ 325-63. Penalties for offenses. [Amended 8-5-1992 by L.L. No. 3-1992]
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Failure to comply with any of the provisions of this chapter shall be deemed an offense and shall
be punishable as provided in Chapter 1, General Provisions, Art. I, Penalties, of this Code, in
addition to penalties for violation of any other regulation or ordinance of the City of Ithaca. Each
day such violation continues shall constitute a separate violation.
§ 325-64. Applicability and construal of provisions.
This chapter is applicable within the City of Ithaca and shall be construed as an exercise of the
powers of such municipality to regulate, control and restrict the use of buildings, structures and
land for outdoor advertising purposes, displays, signs and other advertising media in order to
promote the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the of the municipality and its
inhabitants and of peace and good order, for the benefit of trade and all matters related thereto.
§ 325-65. Effective Date.
This ordinance shall take affect immediately and in accordance with law upon publication of
notices as provided in the Ithaca City Charter.
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CODE OF THE CITY OF ITHACA,NEW YORK, v8 Updated 9-25-2002
PART II GENERAL LEGISLATION
Chapter 276, SITE PLAN REVIEW
§ 276-7. Project review criteria.
§ 276-7. Project review criteria.
A General criteria:
(1) Avoidance or mitigation of any negative environmental impacts identified in the
environmental review. The following shall be emphasized in particular:
(a) Erosion, sedimentation and siltation control.
(b) Protection of significant natural features and areas, including but not limited to trees,
views, watercourses or bodies of water and land forms, on or near the site. The protection
of existing mature vegetation, especially trees over eight to 12 inches DBH (diameter-
breast-height) may be required unless a justification for their removal can be made by the
applicant.
(c) Protection of, and compatibility with, other nearby features and areas of importance to the
community, including but not limited to parks, landmarks, neighborhoods and historic
districts.
(2) Compliance with all other regulations applicable to the development. These include, but are
not limited to, the Zoning Ordinance, Sign Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations, Landmarks
Preservation Ordinance, Exterior Property Maintenance Ordinance and Environmental Quality
Review Ordinance of the City of Ithaca, EN and the State Environmental Quality Review
Act.EN [Amended 6-13-2001 by Ord. No. 2001-8]
(3) Improvement of the visual quality of the site and its vicinity through:
(a) The presence of a perceivable form and order in the basic layout of the major landscape
elements.
(b) The proper and effective use of landscape architectural elements such as plantings, land
forms, water features, paving, lighting, including the location and appearance of proposed
signage.ete.
1(c) An appropriate arrangement, form, scale, proportion, color,pattern and texture of buildings
and other site improvements.
(d) An appropriate relationship between the proposed development and the nearby streetscape
and landscape.
(4) Adequate stormwater management. Calculations of the existing and estimated increased loads
on the system may be required.
(5) Adequate wastewater and sewage disposal facilities. Calculations of the existing and estimated
increased loads on the system may be required.
(6) Adequacy of fire lanes and fire and emergency access and the availability of fire hydrants.
(7) Safe arrangement of vehicular access, circulation, intersections and traffic controls. Analysis
of the project's impact on parking and traffic may be required.
(8) Safe and convenient pedestrian and bicycle access and circulation, and provision of bicycle
racks when appropriate.
(9) Handicap accessibility of buildings, pathways and parking.
(10)Open space for play areas and informal recreation in the case of a residential development.
. > 1
•
(11)Conformance to any adopted urban design plan or comprehensive plan relevant to the
proposed site.
(12)For new construction of multiple dwellings, commercial buildings and office buildings,
adequate and appropriately located facilities for the storage and collection of solid waste and
recyclable materials shall be required. Developers of new commercial and mixed-occupancy
buildings must design a waste management system that can support the needs of any allowable
use in the building, including those uses that could result in maximum garbage generation.
Screening of these facilities, as well as other actions relating to the appearance of the facilities,
may be required. [Amended 6-13-2001 by Ord. No. 2001-8]
(13)Shielding of noise from mechanical equipment and other sources to the extent reasonably
practicable.
B Criteria for plant materials and maintenance. All projects shall provide for adequate types and
arrangements of landscaping, both to enhance the site and to complement the architectural
components of the development and to screen or buffer adjacent uses in public ways. Where
possible and reasonable, trees shall be planted in a strip adjacent to the road. The City Forester
shall, when appropriate, be consulted regarding specifications governing tree species, size, spacing
and method and location of planting. Appropriate guaranties for tree health may be required.
Where possible and reasonable, any trees greater than 10 inches in diameter at breast height of
desirable species and in good health and sound structure, as determined by the City Forester,
should be retained on the site and protected during development per the requirements of§ 306-7B
of Chapter 306, Trees and Shrubs.
(1) Deciduous trees shall have a caliper of at least 21/2 inches at the time of planting. Size of
evergreen trees and shrubs shall be allowed to vary depending on location and type of plant
material(species).
(2) Only nursery-grown plant materials shall be acceptable. All trees, shrubs and ground cover
shall be planted according to the accepted standards of the American Association of
Nurserymen.
(3) Dead, dying and/or seriously damaged plant materials shall be replaced, by the owner,within a
reasonable time period during the current (or immediate next) planting season. Any other
damaged or missing elements, including but not limited to fences, bollards, signs, shrubs,
}street furniture, etc., of the approved plan must be similarly replaced by the owner. This will
assure that landscaping remains in compliance with the final site plan as approved by the
Planning and Development Board.
(4) Notwithstanding any provision in this chapter or any other City ordinance or regulation to the
contrary, an approved site plan may not be modified without express written approval of the
Board of Planning and Development except as approved by the Building Commissioner upon
consultation with the Director of Planning and Development as specified herein above.
C Criteria for parking areas where applicable. The general criteria in Subsection A shall apply also to
parking area development. These are intended to be minimum criteria. The Board may make such
additional reasonable stipulations as it deems appropriate to carry out the intention of this chapter.
The following criteria shall apply(see accompanying illustration EN):
(1) There shall be screening with a minimum five-foot-wide planting area or fences between a
parking area and adjacent properties and public ways, except where there is parking that is
shared by more than one property or where commercial properties abut. In such cases the
Board may require landscaping as it deems appropriate.
(2) In parking areas a minimum of 12% of the interior ground area (i.e., excluding any peripheral
planting area) shall be planting areas that include trees with a potential mature height of at
least 50 feet and a caliper of at least 21/2 inches at the time of planting.
(3) Interior planting areas shall be a minimum of 80 square feet with no dimensions being less
than eight feet. The planter shall be curbed and have a minimum three-foot-deep excavation.
(4) The City Forester and the Shade Tree Advisory Committee shall be consulted in plant species
selection and planting soil specification.
•
}
City of Ithaca Long Environmental Assessment Form
Project Information by Applicant
Notice: This document is designed to assist in determining whether the action
proposed may have a significant effect on the environment. Please complete the
entire form. Answers to these questions will be considered as part of the
application for approval and may be subject to further verification and public
review. Provide any additional information you believe will be needed to complete
parts 2 and 3.
Name and Location of Project: Revision to the City Sign Ordinance and the Site
Plan Review Ordinance _ _
Name and Address of Applicant: City of Ithaca
Street: 108 East Green Street
City/Town/Village: Ithaca State: N.Y. ZIP:14850
Business Phone: 607-274-6550
Name and Address of Owner Name:
(If Different):
Street:
City/Town/Village: Stater ZIP:
Business Phone:
Type of Project: Revision to City Ordinance and the City Site
Plan Review Ordinance
Please Complete Each Question--Indicate N.A. if not applicable
A. SITE DESCRIPTION
(Physical setting of overall project, both developed and undeveloped areas.)
1. Character of the land: Generally uniform slope
Generally uneven and rolling or irregular X
'2. Present Land Use: !Urban X Industrial X Commercial X Public X Forest X
__
Residential X Other:_ ___
3. Total area of project Citywide
area
I
Approximate Area (Units in ques tion 3 t o this
Presently After Completion
section)
la. Meadow or Brushland N/A N/A
b. Wooded N/A N/A
lc. Agricultural - , N/A . N/A
id. Wetland(as per Articles 24 of ECL) N/A N/A
e. Water Surface Area .• -- 'N/A N/A•
f. Public N/A N/A
Water Sprface Aiea - N/A
h. Unvegetated (rock, earth or fill) L N/A N/A
41:A. Atit'41;
1j. Other(indicate type) 'I N/A !I N/A
4a What iS predominant soil type(s) on
-;•7: ''''`
prOjeCt site? e g HdB, silty loam, etc
4b. Percentage well drained: Moderately:
well drained: Poorly drained:
5a.Are there bedrock outcroppings on - N/A
project site?
5b. What is depth of bedrock? (feet) N/A
Sc. What is depth to the water table? (feet) N/A
16}. Approximate percentage of proposed 0-10%: % 10-15%: % 15% or greater:
!project site with slopes: % N/A
17. Do hunting or fishing opportunities N/A
!presently exist in the project area?
8. Does project site contain any species of
N/A
'plant or animal life that is identified as
Identify each species
threatened or endangered?
9. Are there any unique or unusual land N/A
forms on the project site? (i.e., cliffs, other Describe:
geological formations?
10. Is project within or contiguous to a site
designated a unique natural area or critical Describe: N/A
environmental area by a local or state
agency?
I 11. Is the project site presently used by the N/A
community or neighborhood as an open
space or recreation area?
12. Does the present site offer or include N/A
scenic views known to be important to the
community?
13. Is project contiguous to,or does it N/A
contain a building or site listed on or if Yes,Explain:
eligible for the National or State Register of
Historic Places?
Or designated a local landmark or in a N/A
local landmark district?
14. Streams within or contiguous to project `a. Names of stream or name of river to which
area: it is tributary: N/A
15 Lake s,ponk:C d sw,wet landa reas within or
1 a x Namrt e> NIA "'k i ... 3•x•3 g�ar Y=w"k e'�Sx.� }„r` ayflr_x Yx `; _'�
contiguous to project
...ti «✓ .._.......r=!✓........_...r .-.._ ....._... - ,•3..i'. +Y..'t-.2J - a«..a.�......L.....r.....-.._..'ZL•.rt.
16. What is the dominant land use and Citywide—All zones
zoning classification within a 1/4-mile
radius of the project? (e.g. single family
residential,R-la or R-lb) and the scale of
development (e.g. 2 story)
17.Has the site been used for land disposal .N/A
of solid or hazardous wastes? if Yes,Describe:
B. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
11. Physical dimensions and scale of project (fill in dimensions as appropriate) N/A
1. a. Total contiguous area owned by project sponsor in acres: or square feet: N/A
1. b. Project acreage developed: Acres initially: Acres ultimately: N/A
11. c. Project acreage to remain undeveloped: N/A
1. d. Length of project in miles: (if appropriate) or feet: N/A
1. e. If project is an expansion or demolition of existing building or use, indicate percent of
change proposed:
!building square footage: developed acreage: N/A
1. f. Number of off-street parking spaces existing: proposed: N/A
1. g. Maximum vehicular trips generated per day: and per hour: (upon completion of
project). N/A
1. h. If residential: Number and type of housing units (not structures):
One Family Two Family Multiple Family Condominium
Initial N/A N/A N/A N/A
Ultimate N/A N/A N/A N/A
If non-residential, Orientation: Commercial X Industrial
Neighborhood City Regional --Estimated Employment
1. i. Total height of tallest proposed structure: feet.
2. Specify what type of natural material (i.e. rock, earth, etc.) and how much will be
removed from the site: or added to the site .
3. Specify what type or vegetation (trees, shrubs, ground cover) and how much will be
removed from the site:
acres, what type?
4. Will any mature trees or other locally-important vegetation be removed by this project?
N/A
5. Are there any plans for re-vegetation to replace that removed during construction? N/A
6. If single phase project:Anticipated period of construction months, (including
demolition) N/A
7. If multi-phased project N/A
7. a. Total number of phases anticipated N/A
7. b. Anticipated date of commencement phase one month year, (including demolition)
N/A
7. c. Approximate completion date of final phase month year. N/A
7. d. Is phase one financially dependent on subsequent phases? N/A
8. Will blasting occur during construction? N/A if yes, explain N/A
19. Number ofjobs generated: during construction after project is completed ". N/A
10. Number ofjobs eliminated by this project: N/A Explain: N/A
11. Will project require relocation of any projects or facilities? yes X No; if yes, explain
12. a. Is surface or sub-surface liquid waste disposal involved? yes X No
12. b. If yes, indicate type of waste (sewage, industrial, etc)
12. c. If surface disposal,where specifically will effluent be discharged?
13. Will surface area of existing lakes, ponds, streams, or other surface waterways be
increased or decreased by proposal? yes X No
14. a. Will project or any portion of project occur wholly or partially within or contiguous
to the 100 year flood plain? 2
14. b. Does project or any portion of project occur wholly or partially within or contiguous
to: Cavuaa Inlet Fall Creek. Cascadilla Creek. CavuQa Lake. Six Mile Creek. Silver
Creek? N/A
14. c. Does project or any portion of project occur wholly or partially within or contiguous
to wetlands as described in Article 24 or the ECL? Yes X No
14. d. If yes for a, b, or c, explain:
15. a. Does project involve disposal or solid waste? N/A
,15.b. If yes, will an existing solid waste disposal facility be used? N/A
15. c. If yes, give name and location: N/A
15. d. Will any wastes not go into a sewage disposal system or into a sanitary landfill? N/A
if yes, explain: N/A
15. e.Will any solid waste be disposed of on site? N/A ; if yes, explain N/A
16. Will project use herbicides or pesticides? N/A ; if yes, specify N/A
17. Will project affect a building or site listed on or eligible for the National or State.
Register of Historic Places? Or designated a local landmark or in a landmark district? N/A
if yes, explain N/A
18. Will project produce odors? N/A; if yes, describe N/A
19. Will project product operating noise exceed the local ambient noise level during
construction?N/A;After construction?N/A;.
120. Will project result in an increase of energy use? N/A; if yes, indicate type(s) N/A
21. Total anticipated water usage per day gals/day. Source of water. N/A
22. Zoning:
22. a. What is dominant zoning classification of site? .
122. b. Current specific zoning classification of site? .
122. c. Is proposed use consistent with present zoning?
122. d. If no, indicate desired zoning .
23. Approvals:
123. a. Is any Federal permit required? No Specify N/A
23. b. Does project involve State or Federal funding or financing? No
If Yes, Specify N/A
23. c. Local and Regional approvals:
(Yes- Approval Submittal Approval Date
Council Yes Adoption
BZA No
P&D Board No --
P&D Board No
Landmarks No
BPW No
Fire Department No
Police No
Department
IURA No
Building No
Commissioner
City of Ithaca Long Environmental Assessment Form
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT - PART 2
IMPACT ON LAND
1. Will there be an effect as a result of a physical Small to Potential Can Impact
;change to project site? Moderate Large be Reduced
by Project
!Yes No X Impact Impact Change?
Any construction on slopes of 15% or greater, (15 foot I I
;rise per 100 foot of length), or where the general slope
in the project exceeds 10%.
Construction on land where the depth to the water table
is less than 3 feet.
Construction of parking facility/area for 50 or more
vehicles.
•
Construction on land where bedrock is exposed or
generally within 3 feet of existing ground surface.
Construction that will continue for more than 1 year or
involve more than one phase or stage.
Evacuation for mining purposes that would remove
jmore than 1,000 tons of natural material (i.e. rock or
(soil)per year.
Construction of any new sanitary landfill.
•
I Clearcutting or removal of vegetation other than
!agricultural crops from more than one-half acre.
Construction in a designated floodway.
Permanent removal of topsoil from more than one-half
'acre.
Other impacts:
2. Will there be an effect on any unique land forms ' Can Impact
- Small to Potential" •
found on the site?,(i.e. cliffs,gorges, geological • . be Reduced
formations,'etc.)
Moderate : Large 1 '.by Project
Yes ;NoX Impact Impact Change?
Specific land forms:
3. Will there be an effect on any site designated as a
. unique natural area or a critical environmental area by
a local or state agency?
Yes No X
IMPACT ON WATER
14. Will project affect any water body designated as Can Impact be
protected? (Under article 15 or 24 of the Environmental Small to Potential Reduced by
Conservation Law,E.C.L.) Moderate Large Project
Yes No Impact Impact
Change.
!Dredging more than 100 cubic yards of material from
channel of a protected stream. I '
1 Construction in a designated freshwater wetland.
Other impacts:
5. Will project affect any non-protected existing or Small to Potential Can Impact be
new body of water? Moderate Large Reduced by
Yes No X Impact Impact Project
Change?
A 10% increase or decrease in the surface area of any
body of water or more than a 10,000 sq. ft. of surface
area.
Construction, alteration, or conversion of a body of
water that exceeds 10,000 sq. ft. of surface area.
Fall Creek, Six Mile Creek, Cascadilla Creek, Silver
Creek, Cayuga Lake or the Cayuga Inlet?
'Other impacts: I I
6. Will project affect surface or groundwater Small to Potential Can Impact be
'quality? Moderate Large Reduced by
.Yes No X Impact Impact Project Change?
;Project will require a discharge permit.
'Project requires use of a source of water that does
inot have approval to serve proposed project.
Construction or operation causing any
contamination of a public water supply system.
Project will adversely affect groundwater.
!Liquid effluent will be conveyed off the site to
facilities which presently do not exist or have
inadequate capacity.
Project requiring a facility that would use water in
excess of 20,000 gallons per day or 500 gallons per
(minute.
Project will likely cause siltation or other discharge
into an existing body of water to the extent that ! j
there will be an obvious visual contrast to natural
conditions.
Other impacts:
DRAINAGE
7. Will project alter drainage flow, drainage Small to Potential Can Impact be
patterns or surface water runoff? Moderate Large Reduced by
yes X no Impact I Impact Project Change?
Project would impede flood water flows.
Project is likely to cause substantial erosion.
Project is incompatible with existing drainage
patterns.
Other impacts:
IMPACT ON AIR
Small to Potential Can Impact
8. Will project affect air quality? be Reduced
yes X no Moderate Large by Project
Impact Impact Change?
Project will induce 500 or more vehicle trips in
any 8 hour period per day.
Project will result in the incineration of more
!than 2.5 tons of refuse per 24 hour day.
!Project emission rate of all contaminants will
exceed 5 lbs per hour or a heat source
!producing more than 10 million BTUs per
(hour.
Other impacts:
IMPACTS ON PLANTS AND ANIMALS
9. Will project affect any threatened or Small to Potential Can Impact
endangered species? Moderate Large be Reduced
Yes No X Impact Impact by Project
Change?
Reduction of any species listed on the New
York or Federal list, using the site, found
over, on, or near site.
Removal of any portion of a critical or
significant wildlife habitat.
Application of pesticide or herbicide more
than twice a year other than for agricultural
purposes.
Other impacts:
IMPACTS ON PLANTS AND ANIMALS
10. Will project substantially affect non- Small to Potential Can Impact be
threatened or non-endangered species? Moderate Large Reduced by
Yes No X Impact Impact Project
Change?
Project would substantially interfere with any
resident or migratory fish or wildlife species.
Project requires the removal or more than 1/2
acre of mature woods or other locally
important vegetation.
Other impacts:
IMPACT ON VISUAL RESOURCE
11. Will the project affect views, vistas or the
visual character of the neighborhood or Small to Potential Can Impact be
community?
Moderate Large Reduced by
Yes No X Impact Impact Project Change?
An incompatible visual effect caused by the
introduction of new materials, colors, and/or
forms in contrast to the surrounding
landscape.
A project easily visible, not easily screened,
that is obviously different from others around
it.
Project will result in the elimination or major
screening of scenic views known to be
important to the area.
Other impacts:
IMPACT ON HISTORIC RESOURCES
12. Will project impact any site or structure Small to Potential Can Impact be
of historic,prehistoric or paleontological Moderate Large Reduced by
importance? Impact Impact Project Change?
Yes No X
Project occurring wholly or partially within
or contiguous to any facility or site listed on
or eligible for the National or State Register
of Historic Places.
Any impact to an archaeological site or fossil
bed located within the project site.
Project occurring wholly or partially within
or contiguous to any site designated as a local
landmark or in a landmark district.
Other impacts:
IMPACT ON OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION
13. Will the project affect the tquantity or Small to Potential Can Impact be
tquality of existing or future open spaces or
recreational opportunities? Moderate Large Reduced by
Yes No X Impact Impact Project Change?
The permanent foreclosure of a future
recreational opportunity.
A major reduction of an open space
important to the community.
Other impacts:
IMPACT ON TRANSPORTATION
14. Will there be an effect to existing Small to Potential Can Impact be
transportation systems? Moderate Large Reduced by Project
Yes No X Impact Impact Change?
- Alteration of present patterns of
movement of people and/or goods.
Project will result in traffic problems.
Project will result in [dual wheel] truck
traffic (three axle or more) of more than
10 vehicles per eight-hour period per
day.
Other impacts:
IMPACT ON ENERGY
15. Will project affect the community's Small to Potential Can Impact be
sources of fuel or energy supply? Moderate Reduced by Project
Yes No X Impact Large Impact Change?
Project causing greater than 5%
increase in any form of energy used in
municipality.
Project requiring the creation or
extension of an energy transmission or
supply system to serve more than 50
single or two family residences.
Other impacts:
(IMPACT ON QUALITY OF DAILY LIFE
16. Will there be objectionable odors,
noise, glare, vibration or electrical Small to Can Impact be
disturbance during construction of or Moderate Potential Large Reduced by Project
after completion of this project? Impact Impact Change?
Yes No X
Blasting within 1,500 feet of a hospital,
school, or other sensitive facility?
Odors will occur routinely(more than
one hour per day)
Project will produce operating noise
exceeding the local ambient noise
levels for noise outside of structure.
Project will remove natural barriers
that would act as a noise screen.
Other impacts:
IMPACT ON HEALTH AND HAZARDS
17. Will project affect public health Small to Can Impact be
and safety? Moderate Potential Large Reduced by Project
Yes No X Impact Impact Change?
Project will cause a risk of explosion
orrelease of hazardous substances
(i.e. oil, pesticides, chemicals,
radiation, etc.) in the event of
accident or upset conditions, or there
will be a chronic low level discharge
or emission.
Project will result in the handling or
disposal or hazardous wastes (i.e.
toxic, poisonous, highly reactive,
radioactive, irritating, infectious, etc.,
including wastes that are solid, semi-
solid, liquid or contain gases.)
Storage facilities for 50,000 or more
gallons of any liquid fuel.
Use of any chemical for de-icing, soil
stabilization or the control of
vegetation, insects or animal life on
the premises of any residential,
commercial or industrial property in
excess of 30,000 square feet.
Other impacts:
IMPACT GROWTH AND CHARACTER OF COMMUNITY OR
NEIGHBORHOOD
18. Will project affect the character Small to Potential Can Impact be Reduced
of the existing community? Moderate Large by Project Change?
Yes No X Impact Impact
The population of the City in which
the project is located is likely to
glow by more than 5% of resident
human population.
The municipal budgets for capital
expenditures or operating services
will increase by more than 5%per
year as a result of this project.
The project will replace or eliminate
existing facilities, structures, or
areas of historic importance to the
community.
Development will induce an influx
of a particular age group with
special needs.
Project will set an important X
precedent for future projects.
Project will relocate 15 or more
employees in one or more
businesses.
Other impacts: Establishes the sign
ordinance for future projects
19. Is there public controversy Small to potential Can Impact be
concerning the project? Moderate Reduced by Project
Yes No X Impact Large Impact Change?
Either government or citizens
of adjacent communities have
expressed opposition or Yes X no
rejected the project or have not
been contacted.
Objections to the project from
Yes X no
within the community.
If any action in part 2 is identified as a potential large impact, or if you cannot
determine the magnitude of impact, proceed to part 3.
Determination
Upon review of the information recorded on this EAF (Parts 1, 2, and 3) and
considering both the magnitude and importance of each impact, it is reasonable
determined that:
A. The project will result in no major impacts PREPARE A NEGATIVE
and, therefore, is one which may not cause DECLARATION X
• significant damage to the environment.
B. Although the project could have a significant
effect on the environment, there will not be a PREPARE A NEGATIVE
significant effect in this case because the DECLARATION
'mitigation measures described in PART 3 have
been included as part of the proposed project.
C. The project will result in one or more major PREPARE A POSITIVE
;impacts that cannot be reduced and may cause DECLARATION, PROCEED WITH
significant damage to the environment. EIS
Date: 12/3/2002 Signature of Responsible Official in
Lead Agency
Print or Type name of Responsible
Signature of Preparer (if different from Official in lead Agency: Alan J. Cohen
responsible officer)
Title/Position: Economic Development Planner Lead Agency's Name: City of Ithaca
Tompkins County
F I L E C°P Y DEPARTMENT OF PLANNIN RECEIVED
121 East Court Street
f° f
Ithaca,New York 14850
Edward C.Marx,AICP D 1 tr 4-5560
Commissioner of Planning N. x. l (StOPM
May 8, 2003
Ms. Kathryn Mance, Environmental/Landscape Planner
City of Ithaca
108 East Green Street
Ithaca,NY 14850
Re: Review Pursuant to §239 -1 and-m of the New York State General Municipal Law
Action: Revisions to City of Ithaca Sign Ordinance
Dear Ms. Mance:
This letter acknowledges your referral of the proposal identified above for review and comment by the
Tompkins County Planning Department pursuant to §239-1 and-m of the New York State General
Municipal Law. The Department has reviewed the proposal,as submitted, and has determined that it has
no negative inter-community, or county-wide impacts.
The department is pleased to see our previous comments incorporated in the ordinance.The revised
version has resulted in a more comprehensive and understandable document. We have no additional
comments to offer at this time.
Please inform us of your decision so that we can make it a part of the record.
Sincerely,
e 21_
Edward C. Marx,AICP
Commissioner of Planning
05/14/03
Draft Resolution:
Declaration of Lead Agency for the Adoption of the Revised Sign ordinance
WHEREAS, State Law and Section 176.6 of the City Code require that a lead agency be
established for conducting environmental review of projects in accordance with local and state
environmental law, and
WHEREAS, State Law specifies that for actions governed by local environmental review, the
lead agency shall be that local agency which has primary responsibility for approving and
funding or carrying out the action, and
WHEREAS, the proposed adoption of the revisions to the City Sign Ordinance is a "Type I"
Action pursuant to CEQR which requires review under the City's Environmental Quality Review
Ordinance; now, therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that Common Council of the City of Ithaca does hereby declare itself lead agency
for the environmental review of the proposed adoption of the revised City Sign Ordinance.
q:lplanninglstafflkatelsign ordinancelresolution-lead agency sign ord..doc 05/14/03
05/12/03
Draft Resolution:
Revisions to the City Sign Ordinance-Determination of Environmental Significance
WHEREAS,the City of Ithaca is proposing to adopt a revised City Sign Ordinance, and
WHEREAS, appropriate environmental review has been conducted including the
preparation of the Long Environmental Assessment Forms (LEAF), and
WHEREAS, the revised City Sign Ordinance has been reviewed by the Tompkins
County Planning Department Pursuant to §239-1—m of the New York State General
Municipal Law, which requires all actions within 500 feet of a county or state facility,
including county and state highways, be reviewed by the County Planning Department,
and has also been reviewed by the City of Ithaca Conservation Advisory Council, and the
City of Ithaca Planning and Development Board, and
WHEREAS, the proposed action is a Type I Action under the City Environmental
Quality Review Act(CEQR Sec.176-12B), and
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of Ithaca, acting as Lead Agency,
reviewed the LEAF prepared by planning staff and has determined that adoption of the
revised City Sign Ordinance will not have a significant effect on the environment; now,
therefore,be it
RESOLVED, that this Common Council, as lead agency in this matter, hereby adopts as
its own, the finding and conclusions more fully set forth on the Long Environmental
Assessment Form, and be it further
RESOLVED, that this Common Council, as lead agency in this matter, hereby
determines that the proposed action at issue will not have a significant effect on the
environment, and that further environmental review is unnecessary, and be it further
RESOLVED, that this resolution constitutes notice of this negative declaration and that
the City Clerk is hereby directed to file a copy of the same, together with any
attachments, in the City Clerk's Office, and forward the same to any other parties as
required by law.
Q:IPLANNINGISTAFFIKatelsign ordinancelResolution-Negdec sign ord.doc
05/14/03
Draft Resolution:
Adoption of the Revised City of Ithaca Sign Ordinance
WHEREAS, the intent of the City of Ithaca Sign Ordinance is to establish the guidelines
for size, content, and setback requirements for which signs may be placed on private
property within the City limits,
WHEREAS, the guidelines of the ordinance are intended to address the needs of the
growing community, while maintaining the desirable look and feel of the area, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council recognizes that the ordinance has not
been revised in some time and many of the newer zones are not included in the language,
and
WHEREAS, staff from both the Planning and Building Departments reviewed the
existing City Sign Ordinance over the course of several months and drafted the proposed
ordinance, which includes all of the new City zones, as well as addressing concerns that
were raised from the county Planning Department and the Planning and Economic
Development Committee, and
WHEREAS, staff also proposed minor text changes to the City Site Plan Review
Ordinance, and
WHEREAS, the draft ordinances were reviewed by the County Planning Department,
the City of Ithaca Conservation Advisory Council, and the City of Ithaca Planning and
Development Board, and
WHEREAS, the required public hearing has been held for the adoption of the Plan on
June 4, 2003, and
WHEREAS, the City of Ithaca Common Council, as lead agency in this matter, has on
June 4, 2003, determined that the proposed action will not have a significant effect on the
environment, and that further environmental review is unnecessary, and, now be it
RESOLVED, That the City of Ithaca Common Council hereby adopts the revised City of
Ithaca Sign Ordinance dated May 12, 2003 and accepts the minor text changes to the City
Site Plan Review Ordinance.
Q:IPLANNINGISTAFF\Katelsign ordinancelResolution-Adoption sign ord.doc