The Austin Board of Adjustment on Nov. 10 approved a variance allowing larger wall and approach signs for a multifamily building at 4700 Weidmar/Weedmar Lane while placing conditions limiting their size and placement.

Jonathan Berlestein, representing the applicant, told the board the proposed signs are sized for wayfinding and emergency services on a large, single-structure apartment building that differs from the garden-style layout the code anticipated. He said signs would be halo-lit (backlit) and sited to face commercial lots and drive approaches, not residential properties.

Several commissioners questioned why a 24-foot vertical wall sign was necessary and whether the larger sign would function as advertising rather than wayfinding. Board members cited Austin City Code section 2,523 in discussing the multifamily definition and noted fire and highway letter-height guidance in considering a compromised size.

The motion that passed limited the south-elevation (enclave) sign to 100 square feet with the bottom edge starting at level 3 (roughly 677.31 feet) and limited the east-elevation illuminated wall sign to 96 square feet. The conditions also required halo/backlighting rather than internal illumination to reduce night light pollution. The motion was made by board member Michael Von Olin and seconded by Maggie Sherastani; the board recorded a roll-call vote and the chair announced the variance granted.

The approval includes a finding that strict enforcement of a 35-square-foot standard would not permit adequate wayfinding on the building scale presented and that the proposed, conditioned signs would not substantially conflict with the ordinance’s purpose of preserving character and avoiding light pollution.

The board and applicant agreed that further adjustments could be made if detailed photometrics or additional neighborhood concerns arise; the decision notes the applicant may be required to supply final photometric plans if requested by staff.