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Cocoa Beach adopts temporary‑signs ordinance on first reading; commission amends maximum directional signs to five
Summary
On first reading the commission adopted Ordinance 17‑11, which regulates temporary signage (size, setbacks, weekend hours). Commissioners amended the ordinance to increase the maximum number of directional/open‑house signs per listing from three to five before adopting the ordinance 5‑0.
The Cocoa Beach City Commission adopted Ordinance 17‑11 on first reading, enacting new rules for temporary signs including size limits, a 25‑foot visibility setback at intersections and restricted weekend hours for open-house signage. Commissioners amended the draft ordinance to increase the maximum number of directional signs allowed to lead motorists to a listing from three to five before approving the ordinance.
Staff described the ordinance as a public‑safety and clutter‑reduction measure; code enforcement staff explained that the 25‑foot setback is part of the standard visibility triangle used to keep intersections clear. "Those are the dimensions of the visibility triangle … it's about public safety," a staff presenter said during the discussion.
Realtors and residents expressed concerns about practical effects. Olivia Capizzi, a local Realtor who testified during public comment, said the originally proposed three‑sign limit would not reliably direct buyers to properties and argued many listings require more directional signs. "Three signs are not gonna make it," she said. Other realtors said online listings and GPS help, but asked for flexibility so buyers can find properties that are off the main corridors.
Commissioners debated enforcement on state right‑of‑way (A1A) and whether the city has authority to remove noncompliant signs in those locations; staff and the city attorney said the city would enforce the ordinance on city rights‑of‑way and remove signs that violate the code. A commissioner proposed an amendment to raise the maximum allowed directional signs from three to five to accommodate properties located away from main corridors; the amendment passed by voice vote 4‑1. The main motion to adopt Ordinance 17‑11 as amended then passed unanimously (5‑0).
The ordinance will return for a subsequent reading before final adoption, and staff said they would monitor enforcement and return to the commission if the change proves problematic.
