Q: How do we find out if the City of Kirkland has restrictions of inflatable characters, arches, the waving man tube, etc.?

A: Inflatable characters are regulated by the city’s sign code (which is contained in Chapter 100 of the Kirkland Zoning Code). To learn the specific regulations, you can read the zoning code online at www.kirklandwa.gov (select “government” then “codes and laws”).

Also, you can contact the Planning and Community Development Department to learn about the restrictions by calling 425-587-3225 or emailing planninginfo@kirklandwa.gov.

The sign code specifically prohibits devices that are “of a garish or of a carnival-like nature” and 11 other categories of physical advertisements, including flashing lights, rotating signs, balloons and wind-activated devices.

The sign code does allow exceptions to these prohibitions for holiday decorations and for seven days to allow for the grand openings of a business. This means “Waving Man” and “King Kong” should only plan on a brief visit.

The sign code is intended to allow for the construction and display of signs as a commercial means of communication for the business community, while protecting Kirkland’s visual character through the placement, design, and maintenance of signs.

Marie Stake is the Communications program manager for the City of Kirkland.