Explanation
This ordinance amends various sections of the Columbus Zoning Code, Article XV, “City Graphics Code” and Section G.20.060, Graphics Standards, of the 2024 Zoning Code in order to modernize terminology and update standards related to graphics allowed in and around the downtown area. This will coincide with the ongoing modernization of the Zoning Code - the Zone In Initiative. Many of the standards contained in Article XV of the Columbus Zoning Code were developed prior to the prevalence of modern sign and illumination technologies, necessitating periodic code changes and updates such as this. The total number of Gateway Digital Graphics is limited to maintain highway safety and mitigate against proliferation and avoid saturation of these types of graphics which are meant to be entryway graphics limited in number. The proposed code changes will be considered were considered at the Columbus Graphics Commission public hearing on June 17, 2025, where they recommended approval.
FISCAL IMPACT: No funding is required for this legislation.
Title
To amend various sections Section G.20.060, Graphics Standards, of the 2024 Zoning Code Columbus City Codes in order to modernize terminology and update standards related to graphics allowed in and around the downtown area.
Body
WHEREAS, this ordinance revises various sections of Columbus Zoning Code, Article XV, “City Graphics Code” and Section G.20.060, Graphics Standards, of the 2024 Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS, there is a desire that the graphics code be updated to allow modernized graphics in and around the downtown area; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance establishes new standards for the Gateway Digital Graphics; and
WHEREAS, The total number of Gateway Digital Graphics will be limited in order to maintain highway safety and mitigate against proliferation and avoid saturation of these types of graphics which are meant to be entryway graphics necessarily limited in number; and
WHEREAS, these proposed code changes will be were considered at the Columbus Graphics Commission public hearing on June 17, 2025, where they recommended approval; and
WHEREAS, it has become necessary in the usual daily operation of the Department of Building and Zoning Services to update the Graphics Code 2024 Zoning Code; now, therefore:
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That various sections of the Columbus Zoning Code, Article XV, the “City Graphics Code”, and Section G.20.060, Graphics Standards, of the 2024 Zoning Code are is hereby amended as set forth in the attachment hereto.
SECTION 2. That the existing provisions of the Columbus Section G.20.060, Graphics Standards, of the 2024 Zoning Code Zoning Code, Article XV, “City Graphics Code”, amended by SECTION 1 are hereby repealed.
SECTION 3. That this ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after the earliest period provided by law.