The Waynesville Town Council convened on September 23, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the town's signage ordinance, aiming to clarify regulations and enhance enforcement. The proposed amendments, which received positive feedback from residents and board members, focus on improving the usability of the signage code for both applicants and staff.

One of the key changes involves the definition and measurement of signs, particularly in relation to murals. The council clarified that only the portion of a mural containing the sign's lettering and logo will count towards the maximum allowed signage in a district. This adjustment aligns with how staff has historically interpreted such signs, exemplified by the Waynesville Soda Jerks mural.

Additionally, the council proposed reducing the maximum size for attached signs in commercial and industrial districts from 15% to 10% of the wall face for new signage. This change aims to create a more visually appealing environment while maintaining existing signs under current regulations.

The updates also include new guidelines for neighborhood entrance signs, which will now have specific dimensional standards and will be processed at the staff level rather than requiring planning board approval. This streamlining is expected to expedite the approval process for developers.

Another notable amendment is the removal of the prohibition on facsimile signs, which are three-dimensional signs that add character to the town. This decision reflects a shift towards embracing unique signage that enhances local aesthetics, aligning with the town's goals for promoting a vibrant community.

The council also addressed temporary signs, consolidating overlapping regulations to simplify the ordinance without changing how these signs are governed. Furthermore, updates to political sign regulations were discussed, with a proposal to delay enforcement of new size limits until after the upcoming election to avoid unfairness to candidates who have already purchased signs based on previous regulations.

In conclusion, the proposed amendments to the signage ordinance are designed to enhance clarity, support local businesses, and align with the town's comprehensive land use plan. The council is expected to vote on these changes in the coming weeks, with the aim of fostering a more attractive and functional community environment.