The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) shall have the authority to grant a variance from the strict application of these regulations provided that such relief may be granted without substantially impairing the intent of this subchapter. Application and consideration of sign variances shall be in accordance with the following procedures and standards.
(A) Application and review procedures. Any party who has been denied a permit for a proposed sign may file an application for a variance to this subchapter within 21 calendar days of the decision. Applications shall be considered by the ZBA per the procedures in §154.450, Variances and Appeals.
(B) Variance standards for signs. The ZBA shall consider the following standards while reviewing any application for an variance from provisions of this subchapter.
(1) Obstructions. Construction of a conforming sign would obstruct the vision of motorists or otherwise endanger public health or safety.
(2) Visibility. A conforming sign would be blocked from the sight of passing motorists due to existing buildings, trees, or other obstructions.
(3) Site features. Construction of a conforming sign would require significant tree removal or extensive topographic changes.
(4) Scale. A sign that exceeds the allowable height or area standards of this subchapter would be more appropriated in scale to the building or site frontage.
(5) Aesthetics. The variance shall not adversely impact the character or appearance of the building or parcel or the neighborhood.
(6) Minimal. The variance shall be the minimum necessary to allow reasonable use, visibility or readability of the sign.
(7) Intent. The variance shall not significantly impair the intent and purpose of this subchapter.
(C) Findings and conditions. In a motion granting or denying a sign variance, the ZBA shall state the specific grounds for the decision, which shall be supported by specific findings of fact. The ZBA may attach conditions to a sign variance approval in accordance with the intent and purpose of this subchapter.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10)