Zoning board approves Sheetz sign package and ground sign setbacks at 5920 12 Mile; prior variances rescinded

The Warren Zoning Board of Appeals on Sept. 10 approved a multi-element signage package for a Sheetz convenience and fueling site, including multiple wall signs, canopy signs, pump signage and a 20-foot-high ground sign with reduced setbacks due to an underground stormwater-detention structure near the proposed foundation.

Rebecca Green, representing Sheetz, said the applicant had designed a reduced sign package compared with typical Sheetz projects and that the ground sign location was constrained by an underground retention basin; the request included a 56.5-square-foot ground sign at 20 feet tall and multiple small wall and canopy signs. Green said the company complied with planning requests and had reduced the number of wall signs typically used on other Sheetz projects.

Board members asked for and received clarification on sign-area calculations (the city and petitioner calculate cabinet area differently). Secretary Jersey asked whether previously granted variances on the parcel would be rescinded; the petitioner agreed to relinquish prior variances tied to former site uses so the new Sheetz approvals would be the controlling approvals for the property.

After discussion the board moved to approve the requested sign package and to rescind older variances related to the Victory Inn and used-car-lot signage and features. The motion passed with a majority; one board member voted no, citing the scale compared with the ordinance allowance for signage.

Planning staff noted the ground-sign setbacks were limited by underground utilities and the detention basin; staff will finalize the site plan and issue permits once final engineering and foundation protections are confirmed.

Vote: majority approval; staff to finalize sign-permit review and ensure foundation/setback protections for the ground sign.