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Board approves roof sign variance for Kelly Carnes’ Kawasaki dealership at 901 Chester Boulevard
Summary
The Board of Zoning Appeals approved BZA19‑2025 to allow a replacement illuminated roof sign at Kelly’s Kawasaki, concluding the 45‑year‑old roof sign may be replaced with a 72–75 sq ft illuminated sign required by the franchise.
The Richmond City Board of Zoning Appeals voted unanimously to approve BZA19‑2025, allowing a roof sign at 901 Chester Boulevard for Kelly’s Kawasaki.
Petitioner Kelly Carnes told the board the dealer’s franchisor required an updated sign to comply with a national brand image; he said he purchased a double‑faced sign and sought a variance after learning roof signs are now prohibited by the sign standards. Planning staff recommended approval, noting the existing roof sign has been in place for decades, that the structure was built in 1974, and that the proposed illuminated sign (listed in staff materials as about 72–75 square feet) would serve as wayfinding without unduly harming adjacent properties.
Kelly Carnes, who identified his business and property at 901 Chester Boulevard, said he bought the new sign after pressure from the franchise: “I bought this sign, and I didn't realize there'd be any problem getting a permit to put it up.” Planning staff told the board the property is in the Outdoor Commercial zoning district, that a single‑tenant wall sign up to 200 square feet would be permitted but the requested roof sign is only 72 square feet, and that staff had received one letter in favor.
The staff report described the property’s history, noting the Kawasaki roof sign has been present since at least 1980 and that no prior variance for the roof sign exists in the record. City departments raised no health or safety objections in the staff review. Staff concluded that the proposed illuminated roof sign “will not be injurious to the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of the community” and recommended approval based on those findings.
Board members moved and seconded approval “based on the staff report and finding of facts,” then called the roll. Recorded votes were aye from Jeff Cook, Rob Tidrow, Zayred (Sayward) Salazar and Nathan Sheets; the chair announced the motion carries.
The board closed the item after approving the variance and reminded applicants that filing deadlines and meeting dates for future petitions were available through the planning office.
