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BZA denies Sphinx gas station sign variance, citing visibility and ordinance considerations
Summary
A requested variance to raise a Sphinx gas station freestanding sign from 10 to 15 feet was denied after board members questioned visibility trade-offs, existing building and canopy signage and consistency with the sign ordinance; the motion to deny passed by voice vote.
The Berkeley County Board of Zoning Appeals denied a request from a Sphinx gas station developer for a 5-foot sign-height variance.
Greg Minton, representing the applicant, asked for a 15-foot freestanding sign due to topography and setback constraints that place the sign well back from the road. “We’re not asking for any greater square footage, only for the height to create visibility,” Minton said, describing trees, the road slope and landscaping that reduce sight lines at highway speeds.
Board members questioned the need given planned building and canopy signage and noted alternatives the applicant already planned to use. Miss Burbage moved to deny the variance; Mister Smith seconded. The board approved the motion to deny by voice vote.
Minton said he appreciated the board's consideration and reiterated the company’s interest in being part of Berkeley County. The denial means the applicant must meet the existing 10-foot height limit or return with additional justification or a revised application.
