VN-154 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

_ •~. • Basic Design Elements. Code regulations, however, classify off- premise signs as billboards, and billboards are permitted only in business and industrial districts w::ich are abutting on freeways. Section 14-020 defines a billbozrd as: ''c. Billboard. A sign erected and used for the primary purposes of advertising products, goods or services other than those offered on the premises of the sign." Code requirements state that any deviation from the regulations found in Chapter XIV can only be accomplished via the variance procedure. This is the nature of the applicants request. Section 14-220 Variances outlines the elements of sign variance requests as: (1) Practical difficulities (2) Unnecessary hardship (~) Or, if results inconsistent with the general purpose of Chanter 1'IV would otherwise occur. In addition, there must be special circumstances involving size, shape, topography, etc., attached to the property in question. In consideration of these elements, the granting of the variance shall not constitute a special privilege. In response to these elements the applicant has indicated that as a result of their somewhat hidden location, sale of the available new homes and lots has been severely restricted. Our concerns for this matter include one, that the conditions are present to warrant the variance; two, that the actual sign not be unsightly in terms of size, shapA, or color; and throe, that the location not obstruct the view of traffic. In regards to the warrants f_or the variance, attention is directed to the applicants statement pertaining to the need of the signing. We would note that this particular case is similar to other developments in New Brighton vahere the lots and homes are not readily visible from a major road. The sign, a~ depicted on the drawing, does not appear to be particularly offensive. Of more concern is the proposed location for the sign. The setbacks as shown would be 10' from the Long Lake Road right-of-way and 25' from the Poppyseed Drive right-of-way. We would suggest that if the variance is approved, that the sign be • located slightly further to the east. This would eliminate any possible obstruction at the intersection.