Planning commission narrows draft rules for illuminated canopy signs in downtown historic district

The Lexington Planning Commission on Aug. 14 reviewed draft language for ZOA 2025-03, a proposed text amendment to allow illuminated canopy/channel‑letter signs in the C‑1 downtown Historic Preservation District and the C‑2 commercial district. Planning staff presented examples of channel letters, cabinet signs and open‑face neon and sought feedback on size, height, color and brightness limits; commissioners and staff agreed to return more specific standards for a two‑week public hearing.

The amendment was described by staff member Arnie as “not an application for sign, but they are asking to have a text amendment done to specify or allow a specific type of sign.” Arnie said the draft would let owners of qualifying buildings apply to the Architectural Review Board for permission if the text change is approved. “This is just to allow, as is written now, anybody with a canopy downtown ... with at least 40 feet of frontage ... to apply for a sign in front of the architectural review,” Arnie said.

Commissioners focused on four technical issues: which sign types to…