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Planning commission denies sign variance on Woodward, urges resubmission to meet safety rules
Summary
The commission denied a requested sign variance for a monument sign at 26676 Woodward because the proposed location would obstruct sidewalk sight lines; staff and commissioners suggested moving the sign to the north side of the driveway or switching to a pole sign so the petitioner can submit a compliant design.
The Royal Oak Planning Commission voted to deny a sign‑variance request for a new monument sign at 26676 Woodward after staff and commissioners identified pedestrian and driver sight‑line concerns tied to the sign’s proposed placement roughly 24 inches from the sidewalk.
Building‑department staff explained that while the proposed size and non‑illuminated character of the monument sign were acceptable, its placement could block vision for drivers exiting the site and would conflict with corner‑triangle safety clearances in the sidewalk/right‑of‑way area. Commissioners discussed alternatives, including a pole sign or moving the new sign to the north side of the driveway where an existing lawn area could better accommodate proper setbacks and corner clearances.
Paul Dieters of Metro Signs (the petitioner) told the commission he and the property owner were willing to relocate the new sign to a different part of the site — and acknowledged that resubmission to meet the corner‑triangle and setback rules would be a straightforward administrative process. Commissioners voted to deny the variance as presented and noted that the petitioner could resubmit a revised sign design or location that complies with ordinance setbacks; staff said such a resubmission would be handled administratively and would not permanently grandfather the nonconforming proposal if the business or sign ownership changed.
