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Planning commission advances sign‑code changes and asks staff to add lighting language
Summary
The commission reviewed broad sign‑code updates — banner limits, real‑estate sign heights, design standards and enforcement — and voted to direct staff to include a lighting element in the draft sign ordinance for further review before a public hearing.
Brainerd City’s Planning Commission moved forward Tuesday on a package of proposed sign‑code updates and directed staff to add an illumination section for follow‑up review.
Staff outlined multiple changes to the city’s sign rules: limit ground‑mounted signs and flags to two per property; permit one temporary wall banner per building for up to 60 days per calendar year; require that signs in certain commercial districts include a three‑dimensional wall or projecting sign element; prohibit sign encroachment into MDOT right‑of‑way without MDOT approval; and require property owners to repair or remove unreadable, unsafe or abandoned signs within 60 days. Staff also recommended maximum sizes for real‑estate signs and standards for window signage (vinyl preferred over painted windows).
Commissioners devoted much of the discussion to lighting. Several commissioners and staff raised concerns about rope lighting and exposed bulbs creating glare or driver distraction. One commissioner called longstanding broken or ‘‘zombie’’ signs an eyesore downtown and said cleanup is overdue. Some members argued lighting rules are complex and may merit a separate, broader lighting ordinance that would cover street and site lighting; others said including lighting rules now is important to ensure new signs built under any incentive program conform to future lighting rules.
After discussing options, the commission voted to proceed with option one — have staff draft lighting language and incorporate it into the sign‑code package for the commission’s review before scheduling a public hearing. Staff noted the EDA is considering grant funds to help pay for sign improvements and wanted sign and lighting guidance available for applicants.
The commission did not finalize the ordinance Tuesday; it directed staff to return with draft lighting language and clarified sign code edits for review at a future meeting and potential public hearing.
