Create a Thriving Business District

A-FRAME

Provides important identification of businesses located off street level. The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) regulates the placement of A-frame signs in public rights-of-way because they can sometimes clutter sidewalks and pose a safety hazard for the visually and physically impaired. Currently, A-frame signs are illegal except in a City-approved district that has obtained a street use permit to allow and regulate A-frame signs (see BIA).

Current districts with City approval for A-frame signs:

• Businesses of Broadway
• Pioneer Square Community Association
• Pike Place Market Historical District

Frequently asked questions:

Who can have an A-frame Sign?

How do I obtain A-frame signs approval for my district?

You need to have a business district group that has been approved by the City Council such as a BIA, historic or landmark district or Chamber of Commerce. 60% of all businesses in the area need to sign a petition approving the designation and you need $1 million in liability insurance with the City named as additionally insured (this could be a rider on an existing insurance policy). The BIA would then need to apply for and obtain a Street Use Annual Permit to allow and regulate A-frame signs.

Why does the Seattle Department of Transportation regulate our sidewalks?

Sidewalks are part of the street and the City can and does regulate these areas to ensure public safety. ( Seattle Municipal Code, Chapter 15) Thus, street use permits are required for sidewalk activity.

How do I report an illegal, dangerous or improperly placed A-frame sign?

Call the SDOT Street Use at 206-684-5267. A-frame signs are currently regulated on a complaint basis only.

Checklist for legal A-frame signs:

• Obtain a district-wide A-frame sign permit before placing any signs in a public right-of-way.
• Do not attach electric lights or movable parts (like balloons) to the signs. Do not chain any sign to public property as it is a violation of city code.
• Locate signs in front of the sponsoring business. Allow for 6 feet of clear passage for pedestrians; and do not interfere with or attach signs to bus shelters, parking meters or loading zones.
• Place only one sign per address. If more than one business shares an entrance, then signs can represent more than one business.
• Only display signs during business hours.