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1. How do I count square footage for a sign?

Sign area is computed by identifying the square footage of the smallest rectangle or circle that encloses the total message. The sign structure, architectural embellishments, framework, and decorative features that contain no written advertising copy shall not be included in the sign area. Refer to Snohomish County Code (SCC) Figure 30.27.090(1), (2) and (3).

2. How do I know how much signage is allowed?

In most cases, Chapter 30.27 SCC is your best resource. Remember that the information gives the number of square feet of signage for the entire site. This means that the allowable signage is reduced by the signs already on the property. In some cases, the property owner has submitted a specific sign design plan to the county. The sign design plan states how much signage is available for each unit. If there are a number of signs on the property, ask the owner if he or she has submitted a sign design plan. If no specific plan has been submitted, it will be necessary for the applicant to count the total square feet of signs already installed.

3. How do I know what zone my property is in?

There are two ways to obtain zoning information. The first is to view Snohomish County zoning maps which are available online. Permit Zoning Map will find the zoning for your property it is necessary for you to know either the complete site address or the property tax account number. Permit Zoning Map

4. How do I know which section of the code applies?

SCC 30.27.010 gives general requirements for all signs. SCC 30.27.060 speaks to particular uses. SCC 30.27.070 SCC deals with political signs. SCC 30.27.080 deals with billboards. The rest of Chapter 30.27 SCC states sign regulations for the various zones.

5. What are the rules for signs for home occupations?

Residential zone requirements are covered in SCC 30.27.020 SCC. Additional information is provided under SCC 30.28.050(1)(f), which states that "signs in connection with the occupation shall be unlighted, shall not exceed two square feet, and shall be attached flat to the building."

6. What section of the Snohomish County Code deals with signs?

Chapter 30.27 SCC in the Snohomish County Code deals with signs.

7. What is a billboard?

Snohomish County defines a billboard as a sign or structure designed for advertising purposes that are not related to things principally located, produced, or existing on the same property as the billboard. Billboards are allowed only in the following zones: General Commercial (GC), Light Industrial (LI) and Heavy Industrial (HI) zones. Billboards are counted as "advertising" and must be accounted for when tallying signs. Additional billboard information is available in Chapter 30.27.080 SCC. Also, refer to the Signs Submittal Checklist.

8. What is the difference between Identification and Advertising?

Identification is the legal business name and registered logo of the company. Advertising is everything else. Billboards are always counted as advertising. On double-sided signs, only one side is counted for "identification" signs while "advertising" signs are counted on both sides.

9. What is the height limit for a sign?

Allowable sign height is based on the zoning. Height is measured from the grade to the top of the sign. To find the maximum allowable height for a sign, go to the chart in Bulk Regulations, Chapter 30.23.030 SCC. The maximum building height in the chart is the maximum height for a sign, unless there is a restriction in another section of subchapter 30.2 SCC.

Below is a summary of the information.

Zone Height
Freeway Service (FS) 35
Neighborhood Business (NB) 25
Planned Community Business (PCB) 40
Community Business (CB) 35
General Commercial (GC) 45
Industrial Park (IP) 65
Business Park (BP) 50
Light Industrial (LI) 50
Heavy Industrial (HI) 65
Rural Business (RB) 35
Rural Freeway Service (RFS) 35
Rural Industrial (RI) 50

10. What is the setback for a sign?

Where sign setbacks are not otherwise stipulated, signs may extend to the front property line in all zones. Signs cannot be constructed in easements. Signs on corners must follow the sight corner as described for fences in SCC 30.23.100(3).

11. What particular uses are addressed?

SCC 30.27.060 covers signs for particular uses. Sections (1) and (2) cover residential subdivision signs. Section (3) covers schools, churches, community clubs and public structures / buildings. Section (4) covers bed and breakfast.