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Port Richey council adopts revised sign code, shortens temporary sign setback to 2 feet
Summary
On Feb. 24 the Port Richey City Council adopted changes to the city sign code (Ord. 26-740) and approved a related Waterfront Overlay update (Ord. 26-741). Council amended the temporary-sign setback from 5 feet to 2 feet and clarified that signs must not block sidewalks.
Port Richey — The City Council on Feb. 24 adopted two ordinances overhauling local sign rules and aligning the Waterfront Overlay District’s signage regulations with the city’s land‑development code.
Ordinance 26‑740, described by City Attorney Nancy Meyer as an overhaul to remove preempted or outdated provisions and to bring the city into compliance with prevailing First Amendment case law, passed on second reading after a council amendment. Council members debated the allowable placement of temporary signs and moved to reduce the required setback from the roadway from 5 feet to 2 feet. Council added a clarification that if a sidewalk falls inside that 2‑foot zone, the sign must be placed off the sidewalk so as not to impede pedestrian travel. The amendment and the ordinance passed by voice vote.
"As I've been out and about looking and measuring, I've noticed that 5 feet does cover most of it, but there are some, especially when there's no sidewalk," a councilmember said during discussion, urging the shorter setback in some locations. Meyer noted the change would not be substantive and could be reflected in the second‑reading action.
The council also approved Ordinance 26‑741 on second reading to make the Waterfront Overlay District consistent with Chapter 121 of the land‑development code; no public comment was offered on that measure before the vote.
The council’s changes are intended to clarify placement and definitions for temporary signs (many of which are used during campaign season), while ensuring protections for pedestrian routes. The ordinances become effective as provided in the codification language adopted with the ordinances.
Council members said staff will ensure the code text clearly prohibits placement that blocks sidewalks and will incorporate the amendment language into the codified ordinance text.
