Moses Lake regulates feather signs

MOSES LAKE - Businesses flying "tear-drop" or "feather" signs at their locations are now subject to city regulations.

Moses Lake City Council members decided at their last meeting to include the flag-like signs in the city's code on temporary signs.

Such signs usually consist of a piece of fabric attached to a pole in the ground, either on or off city right-of-way.

"These signs are called feather signs for a reason," Mayor Bill Ecret said. "They take off a little easier than sandwich-board signs."

Community Development Director Gilbert Alvarado said the signs are not generally as secure as others.

They have a higher chance of coming loose, creating traffic or pedestrian hazards.

Up until this meeting, these types of signs were unregulated as the city code concerning  sign usage was created before more appeared in town.

The council approved Alvarado's proposed changes to the code, which, among other regulations, require the fluttery sign flyers to be permitted by the city.

As the signs become a larger part of the local advertising culture, council showed concern that too many might become an eyesore.

The permitting process - which is already in use on many other types of signs - would allow the city to maintain an ideal amount.

Permits would be valid as long as the sign in question is in good shape and not torn, tattered or faded.

Alvarado has instructed his team to monitor the signs' conditions. Should one be failing, crews should contact the business owner first.

Should the owners not be available, city crews should then remove the sign.

Business owners would also be responsible for trying to prevent potential safety hazards as much or not.

But many flags are placed within the city's right-of-way, which caused concern for the mayor: the city's liability.

City Attorney Katherine L. Kenison pointed out that, as with any case of the city's property, there's always a chance for a liability to the city.