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Design Review Committee allows raised bracket for courtyard sign at 475 1st Street
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Summary
The Solvang Design Review Committee approved a sign-permit exception allowing two carved wood wall signs for a courtyard tenant at 475 1st Street, directing staff to permit a fabricated bracket and limiting projection to a maximum of 10 inches; a building permit is required before installation.
The Solvang Design Review Committee approved an exception April 16 to allow two carved, hand-painted wood wall signs for a tenant at 475 1st Street, directing staff to permit a fabricated bracket and capping the sign projection at 10 inches.
The decision followed a staff presentation that said the storefront is tucked into a rear courtyard with limited usable wall area; the applicant requested more projection so the business would be visible from the walkway. Staff noted the proposal would be exempt from CEQA under section 15301. The committee recorded that the two signs total 13.1 square feet (about 6.3 and 6.8 square feet each).
Applicant Shauna Stargeau, who spoke during public comment, confirmed the proposed projection is “10 inches instead of the 6.” Committee members and staff discussed alternatives after a committee concern that the side sign would cover a window. The committee directed staff to allow a newly fabricated bracket to be installed above the window so the sign would not obscure glass and so the two signs would match in style.
Chair Esther Jacobson Bates made the motion to permit the bracket and limit projection; Vice Chair Boyd seconded. The motion specified that the bracket must be fabricated to match the existing door bracket, that projection shall not exceed 10 inches, and that a building permit for the bracket be submitted and approved before installation. Staff told the committee the building permit could be handled as an over-the-counter permit and that the city will attempt to expedite the review. Rafael (planning staff) highlighted safety and code compliance, saying the bracket must support the sign’s weight so “in the event of an earthquake or other type of event with oscillation, that the sign doesn't fall and kill somebody.”
The committee voted by roll call to approve the motion; the clerk recorded unanimous approval by members present. Staff will work with the applicant on bracket size, weight, attachment details and an expedited building-permit process. The applicant indicated she will supply bracket dimensions and weight for permit review.
The committee closed item 4a and moved on to other business; members said they look forward to the renovated storefront once permits are complete.
