BZA allows entrance monument signs for Saddle Creek subdivision; board requires downlighting

The Board of Zoning Appeals conditionally approved a use variance on Sept. 15 to allow two monument signs marking the Saddle Creek Farms subdivision in the Rural Equestrian zoning district, with a condition that both signs use downward-directed lighting rather than upward/ground-up illumination. The subdivision previously received BZA approval for a 14-lot major residential subdivision. Planning staff supported the sign variance, noting that the rural-equestrian (RE) zoning district does not provide development standards for typical subdivision signage though subdivisions commonly install entrance monuments for identification and emergency access. Staff said the lack of sign standards in RE created a practical hardship for subdivision developers. Attorney Kyle Russateritz, representing Regal Custom Homes, presented renderings of two stone-wrapped monument columns with affixed panels to mark the two main subdivision entrances (one on 90 Sixth Street and one on 875). The developer said the homeowners’ association would maintain the signs and that the signs would sit outside the public right-of-way. Board members asked about illumination. The petitioner agreed to use downward-directed lighting to limit glare; one member asked that top-down lighting be made a condition of approval to avoid light pollution in the rural area. With the lighting commitment in place, the board approved the use variance unanimously. The developer said the design shown in the staff packet would be followed and that lighting details would be coordinated with the sign vendor; staff and the developer will incorporate the downlighting requirement into the sign permit process.