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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION - February 19,2008 5 City Planner Lehnhoff explained that although the Sign Code regulates internal window signs and permits are technically required, staff has had very little success in obtaining sign permits for these types of signs because the signs change so frequently. He stated from a staff perspective, he would prefer to have the Sign Code retain the regulations that limit the amount of window area that can be covered with signs. It was the consensus of the City Council to remove the permit requirement from this section of the Sign Code but retain the regulations that limit the amount of window area that can be covered with signs. 5. What is the aoprooriate time limit for a temoorarv sil!n? City Planner Lehnhoff stated the current Sign Code of somewhat unclear regarding how many times a property can have a temporary sign. He explained that a temporary sign is clearly limited to 30 days, but past interpretations have suggested that a property could have multiple signs for 30 days each time. He stated that staff recommends that the Code be amended to state that a property or business can have a temporary sign on three occasions per calendar year, with a maximum often days of display for each occasion, and the permits could be used consecutively. Councilmember McClung stated his agreement with this revision and added this is more in line with the intent of the Code. It was the consensus of the City Council to direct staff to prepare language amending the Sign Code to state that a property or business can have a temporary sign on three occasions per calendar year, with a maximum of ten days of display for each occasion, and the permits could be used consecutively. 5. Should businesses with !!rand ooenini!s and soace for rent be allowed to have additional temoorarv sii!nal!e? City Planner Lehnhoff stated the City can allow properties with new business grand openings and vacancies to have alternative temporary sign regulations and presented proposed regulations for the City Council's review. Mayor Harpstead expressed a concern regarding large leasing companies leaving their "for lease" signs on the building well after the space is occupied. City Planner Lehnhoff stated the regulation can state, for example, that ten days after a space is filled, the City will require removal of the sign. He added this requirement would be easy to track through business licensing. It was the consensus of the City Council to add regulations to the Sign Code that allow properties with new business grand openings to have temporary signage for 30 days and that allow properties with space for sale or lease to have temporary signage, provided the temporary signage is removed no later than ten days after the space is leased or sold.