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Council sends extensive sign-ordinance draft to planning board after residents raise enforcement concerns
Summary
Councilors voted 3–2 to forward a comprehensive draft sign ordinance—expanded from one page to several—that includes new limits on temporary signs, bans on signs attached to utility poles/trees, and restrictions on portable mobile signs; residents warned the rules may be difficult to enforce and could affect wayfinding signs.
The town reviewed a comprehensive draft revision of the sign ordinance assembled from provisions used in other Rhode Island communities. Key additions highlighted by the drafter included a prohibition on signs pasted to utility poles or trees, limits on temporary signs (no more than six weeks before an event and removal within four days afterward), restrictions on portable/mobile truck‑style signs, and explicit enforcement authority for the building official.
Several residents raised concerns. Maureen Veil said small wooden directional signs (for farms and chapels) add local character and asked whether the rules would prohibit such signs; she warned that enforcement could overburden town staff. Another resident questioned who would judge a "visually harmonious" environment and cautioned against subjective enforcement. The drafter responded that the document was intentionally comprehensive so the council and planning board could select appropriate provisions.
After discussion the council voted 3–2 to send the proposed revision to the planning board for review and comment. The planning board will advise which provisions are appropriate for Little Compton and return recommendations to the council.
