Create a Thriving Business District

FLOWER PLANTERS

Flower planters are a delightful way to show off your business district during the spring and summer. There are a variety of ways to display flower planters and a few important considerations to keep in mind:

• Attach planters to a building at ground level or above head level. Planters at ground level may extend up to 2 feet from the building. Baskets hanging from a building wall must be securely mounted and located well above pedestrian pathways.
• Attach planters to a pole (as shown). Take a look at all the different types of poles in your neighborhood. Poles that are not ideal for hanging planters include: wooden light poles, segmented metal poles, Metro bus-cable poles or traffic signals.
• Place freestanding planters on the sidewalk or in a plaza. Freestanding planters are usually large, permanent planters placed on the sidewalk. Be sure the sidewalk or plaza area is wide enough to place freestanding planters so they do not obstruct the sidewalk or pose a hazard to the visually or physically impaired.

Frequently asked questions:

Do we need a Street Use Permit to install planters?

Yes, you should obtain a street use permit and update it annually for all planter types and locations. Submit a list of your proposed planters and poles, their location and drawings showing the container material and the type of bracket and fasteners to the Seattle Department of Transportation. You will also need to have an existing liability insurance policy that will cover up to $1,000,000 and the City must be listed as additionally insured on that policy.

Permits are also required for free standing planters.

Is there a charge for the permit?

Yes, the permit costs $101 and is good for one year. The permit is renewable for $97. There is also a field review fee of $150 that includes site plan, application, and insurance. (All permits costs are reflected as of the current fee schedule.)

Where can we get planters?

Planters can be purchased at local gardening stores or concrete furnishing/statuary shops.

Benefits and challenges of flower planters:

BENEFITS

• Adds an attractive detail to your neighborhood.
• Creates a visual link throughout the entire business district.

CHALLENGES

• Requires maintenance and daily watering.
• Can accumulate litter, unless placement is carefully considered.