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handful of actual policy changes, which are described below. Most of the changes are elarifications to existing procedures. Section 1200: Purpose and Findings . Specific findings and authorizing language that support the reasons for regulating signs was added. This section sets the basis for the City's sign regulations and is important for justifYing the regulations within the Sign Code. Seetion 1210: Definitions . Defmitions were added or clarified for auxiliary signs, billboard, dynamic display, grand opening, internal sign, outdoor advertising sign (billboard), and portable sign. . The clear vision area de[mition is not a completely new definition; it was moved from another part ofthe Sign Code to the definition section. . The definition for internal sign was separate from auxiliary sign. The City does not restrict or require permits for internal signs because they are not visible from adjacent properties or the public right-of-way and hence have no impact on the City. This is not a significant policy change, but the Code has been clarified on this point. Auxiliary signs do require a permit because they are visible from the right-of-way and other properties. Auxiliary signs are typieally noncommercial direetional signs. . A definition for "grand opening" was added and regulations related to temporary signs for businesses with grand openings were added to Section 1250.02 Subd 4. . The "sign height" definition was amended to measure height from the average elevation ofthe nearest street instead of the first floor elevation ofthe nearest building. Section 1220: Permit and Review Process . Staff discussed the review and appeals proeess with the City Attorney. State Statutes do not provide a speeific process for evaluating sign permits, but the City does need to have a clear review and appeal process. A draft of the proposed process is in the plan, but this section is under review by the City Attorney. . The appeal process was modified to clearly state that the Planning Commission makes a recommendation to the City Council on sign permit appeals. The previous language indicated that the Planning Commission made the final decision, which was not the intent of the Code. Section 1230: Exempt and Prohibited Signs: . Sectionl230.01 Subd 2 includes the State Statute required section for signs during the eleetion season. A provision to allow property owners to place signs in the right-of-way immediately adjoining their property was added by referencing Section 1250.03 Subd 2, 3, and 4, which allows signs in the right-of-way under certain conditions. This provision was added because many people do not know where the right-of-way starts, and it is not consistent throughout the City. The City cannot give permission to property owners to place signs in the County, State, or Federal right-of-way. Ultimately, allowing signs in the City right-of-way is subject to City discretion. City of Arden Hills City Council Work Session for February 19, 2008 \\Metro-inet.us\ardenhillslPlanninglPlanning Cases\2008\08-004 Sign Code (UPCOMING)\021908 - CC WS Report - Sign Code Update.doc Page 4 of6