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Simsbury staff flags ambiguous center‑zone sign rules; commission to seek input on A‑frame and neon 'open' devices
Summary
Planning staff told the commission that center‑zone sign language is unclear around A‑frame and special‑event signs and that about two dozen small 'open' neon/LED devices are present in town; commissioners were split on enforcement and asked staff to draft clearer rules and hold public outreach.
Planning Director George used the Nov. 7 meeting to flag ambiguities in Simsbury’s sign regulations, particularly in the center zone, where separate rules for A‑frame signs and special‑event signs can be contradictory. Staff said the center‑zone code is unclear about how many days an A‑frame may be displayed and whether an A‑frame used repeatedly requires Commission approval.
George also noted a recent complaint about internally lit 'open' or neon devices and said staff had identified at least 24 such devices around town. He reported the staff interpretation is currently that small 'open' devices are de minimis and not treated as regulated signs, but he asked the commission for direction. “We found at least 24 open/neon signs in the community,” George said, and asked whether the commission wanted staff to treat those devices as regulated signs subject to enforcement.
Commissioners were divided in response. Some said neon open devices conflict with the town character and should be enforced as signs; others argued small 'open' devices are minor and businesses should be allowed flexibility. Several commissioners urged staff to engage business owners and hold a public hearing as part of the zoning update process. The consensus: staff will prepare proposed clarifications (including proposed numeric limits and clear definitions), schedule public outreach and bring a draft amendment or guidance back to the commission rather than launching immediate enforcement.
