Planning commission recommends clarifying window‑sign rules, proposes 30‑day removal for temporary displays

The Town Election Planning Commission on Dec. 18 recommended that the Town Council amend the sign ordinance to clarify how window signage is regulated and to require temporary window signs be removed within 30 days. The recommendation passed unanimously.

Town staff member Justin told the commission that "staff has observed an increase in signage violations related to window signage," and that the current code treats window signage as a permanent wall sign with no separate allowance. Justin said the Town Council directed staff to research how other jurisdictions handle window signage and present findings for the commission's review.

A commissioner moved to add clarifying language that would explicitly include signs painted on or affixed to windows — inside or outside — in the ordinance's definition of a wall sign and to add a 30‑day removal period for temporary window signs. Staff confirmed the intent of the proposed language would be to align the code with enforcement practice and the ordinance's original intent. No members of the public signed up to speak on the item.

The commission voted to forward the recommendation to the Town Council; the chair said the vote was unanimous. The chair also noted these are recommendations only and that the Town Council will consider the change through the council's processes, including three readings and a public hearing before any change to the ordinance becomes law.

The commission's action is advisory: the Town Council will decide whether to introduce the ordinance amendment, schedule readings and a public hearing, and set enforcement timelines if the change is adopted.