Variance approved for two large Busch Gardens monument signs, board requires wayfinding language

The Variance Review Board approved a conditioned variance for two large monument signs proposed along McKinley Drive for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

Staff identified the owner as SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, LLC. The applicant requested a significant increase to the allowable freestanding sign area, seeking an additional 256 square feet per sign to reach 306 square feet for each of two signs. The park representative told the board the park’s large parcel and multiple frontages limit where parking and entrance identification can be placed and that the proposed signs are intended to consolidate smaller signs and improve guest circulation.

Board members expressed concerns about visual repetition and asked whether the signs could include directional copy (for example, "Entrance" or "Parking") so the large identification signs would also serve a wayfinding function. A member questioned whether approving these large signs would prevent other smaller signs from being installed later; staff explained the board could condition a variance to require a wayfinding component but cannot prescribe specific wording. The board ultimately approved the request with a condition that each monument sign include wayfinding language at the owner’s discretion.

The applicant emphasized the signs are static, non‑digital monuments intended for brand identity and guest orientation, not electronic message centers. The approval notes standard permitting conditions such as avoiding tree protection zones and meeting site triangle and stormwater clearance requirements prior to permit issuance.