HDC approves applied wall signage at 7568 Main Street

The Sykesville Historic District Commission approved application 2025-16 to install two applied wall signs (each 36 inches by 20 inches) above entries and a four-tiered highlight sign at 7568 Main Street.

Kevin, the town staff member, summarized the application and said drawings described two single-sided brown-and-white signs above each entry and a four-tier highlight/stacked sign with tiers approximately 17 inches by 3 inches. Kevin noted the application did not clearly state exact materials but that the signs appeared to be made of a wood-like material with carved and painted graphics. He advised commissioners to consider the Sykesville design guidelines and Secretary of the Interior standards where the municipal guidelines lacked explicit detail.

Commissioners discussed sizing and placement, noting guideline guidance that lettering should generally fall between 8 and 18 inches in height and that hanging signs in the district may be up to 42 inches tall. Commissioners said the proposed applied wall signs did not look disproportionate in the provided photos. One commissioner observed that Shannon Bohm (sign fabricator referenced in the discussion) likely understood downtown sign requirements.

With the applicant not present, a commissioner moved to approve application 2025-16 for the applied wall signage as presented; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. The transcript records no roll-call tally. Staff asked the applicant to provide material specifications so staff can confirm compliance with the guidelines prior to final permit issuance.