BZA grants illuminated projecting sign variance for apartment complex surrounded by Hoover

The Jefferson County Board of Zoning Adjustment approved a variance to allow a 58-square-foot internally illuminated projecting wall sign on an apartment complex currently under construction on an isolated parcel zoned R-4.

Staff told the board the property is approximately 32.76 acres, is entirely surrounded by the City of Hoover and is bounded by I‑459 to the south. The parcel was rezoned R-4 on Feb. 7, 1995, with a covenant requiring that no residence be farther than 1,000 feet from a fire hydrant; a portion of the property previously reverted from a 2003 rezoning. Staff noted county code (section 701.01 in the meeting materials) does not allow projecting wall signs in R-4, and that an attached, non‑illuminated sign would not need a variance. Staff recommended approval, saying the sign would not be widely visible from off the property and would not change the character of the area.

Steven Fitzgerald, the applicant, said he understood the project did not technically qualify as a hardship but had prepared materials in advance and asked for approval. No speakers opposed the request. A board member moved to approve case A250027; another seconded. The board approved the variance by voice vote.

Why it matters: The variance permits an illuminated projecting sign on an apartment building in unincorporated Jefferson County on a parcel effectively surrounded by another municipality. The staff recommendation and the board’s approval reflect the panel’s judgment that the sign will not materially alter the area’s character or visibility off-site.

Next steps: With the variance granted, the applicant may proceed with sign installation subject to any required permitting by county staff.