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Board denies height variance for gas-station sign after applicant cites topography and visibility
Summary
Berkeley County BZA denied a request for a 5-foot sign-height variance for a proposed gas station and convenience store; applicant argued topography and distance from the road limited visibility but the board voted to deny the variance.
The Berkeley County Board of Zoning Appeals denied a requested variance that would have allowed a Sphinx-brand gas station and convenience store to install a 15-foot sign instead of the 10-foot height allowed by county ordinance.
Greg Minton, who said he represents the applicant, told the board the property is set 72 to 88 feet off Highway 52 and that the site’s topography and existing roadside landscaping would make a 10-foot sign difficult to see at typical travel speeds. He said the applicant was not requesting additional square footage for signage, only an increase in height for visibility and that nearby subdivision signs and vegetation further reduce sight-lines.
During the public hearing board member Burbage moved to deny the variance; board member Smith seconded the motion. After a vote the chair announced the variance was denied. Staff did not make a recommendation during the public hearing and the transcript does not record board findings or specific conditions explaining the denial.
Minton thanked the board and said the applicant remained “proud to be in Berkeley County.” The transcript records no further direction to staff or a rehearing schedule for the request.
