HomeMy WebLinkAbout1 yr. Xtnsn to Allow Outdoor Display of MerchandiseCITY OF PALM DESERT
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
STAFF REPORT
REQUEST: APPROVAL OF AN EXTENSION FOR A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR TO
ALLOW THE OUTDOOR DISPLAY OF MERCHANDISE
SUBMITTED BY: MISSY GRISA, ASSISTANT PLANNER
DATE: APRIL 23, 2009
Recommendation:
By Minute Motion, that the City Council approve the extension of existing temporary
use permits and the ability to approve new permits to allow the outdoor displays of
merchandise for a period of one year.
Executive Summary:
On October 23, 2008, the City Council addressed the downturn in the economy and how it was
affecting local merchants by temporarily permitting outdoor displays of merchandise. Direction was
given to staff to allow applicants limited outdoor displays of merchandise in all commercial zones
through the issuance of a six-month Temporary Use Permit. These permits are due to expire on
April 30, 2009, and approval of the staff recommendation would extend this process, due to the
economy, for a period of one year.
Discussion:
Staff believes the decision of City Council to temporarily approve the outdoor displays of
merchandise has had a positive effect on local merchants. The ability to call attention to a storefront
with a tasteful display of merchandise draws the attention of the shopping public more than a sign.
Since the economy has significantly slowed down, staff recommends a one-year extension to allow
the continued display of outdoor merchandise in all commercial zones. Approval of this extension
would allow existing applicants to continue their display without issuing a new permit, as well as
allow staff the ability to approve new applications upon final approval of the Director of Community
Development.
This request is based upon the same previously approved conditions:
■ Provision of professional quality display and signage, with signage limited to no more
than a total of five square feet in area, including any pedestal signs;
• Maintenance of adequate parking spaces, sidewalk area and walkways at all times;
• Maintenance of clear lines of sight to adjacent businesses, signage, and view
corridors;
■ The prohibition of clothes racks, folding chairs and tables, pallets, A -frame signs,
and merchandise displayed on the ground or without attractive shelving, display
fixtures, or stands;
Staff Report
Approval of an Extension for a Period of One Year to Allow the Outdoor
Displays of Merchandise
Page 2 of 2
April 23, 2008
• Any other conditions deemed appropriate by the Director of Community
Development in order to preserve the visual and aesthetic character of an appealing,
up market shopping experience
Staff believes that this decision has had a positive impact on local business merchants and
recommends approval of an extension for a period of one year to allow the outdoor displays of
merchandise.
Submitte
bv:
Missy Grisa
Assistant Planner
Approv
Homer Croy
ACM for De
Department Head:
Lauri Ayl4ian
Director of Community Development
J n Wohlmuth
ent Services ity Manager
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CITY COUNCIL AMON
APPROVED V DENIED
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G:\Planning\Missy Grisa\Misc\Staff Report-TUP Extension Approval.doc