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Plan commission aligns sign code with state law, restores larger city campaign sign size
Summary
The commission recommended approval of a sign code change to align with Wisconsin statute on campaign signage and federal precedent; after debate it amended the draft to permit 32‑square‑foot signs during the city’s campaign period and removed a proposed subsection on electrical/mechanical/audio sign placement.
The Delavan Plan Commission recommended approval of revisions to the city’s sign code to bring it into conformance with state statute and federal case law.
Staff summarized that following Reed v. Gilbert the city’s code uses a content‑neutral "yard sign" category. The proposed amendment would align the city with Wisconsin statute by allowing unlimited yard signs up to 11 square feet on residential properties during the state‑defined campaign season. Jackie Mish explained the draft replaces the city’s previous allowance (up to 32 square feet during a shorter city campaign window) to remain compliant with state law while retaining the ability to require certain impact information.
Public comment and commissioners raised concerns that 11 square feet is too small for effective political communication and urged retaining the larger 32‑square‑foot option during a city campaign period. Commissioners debated placement, safety and the ability to regulate electrical, mechanical or audio signs; they ultimately amended the draft to restore a 32‑square‑foot maximum and to strike the proposed subsection concerning electrical/mechanical/audio sign placement. The amended draft and a motion to recommend approval as amended passed on voice votes.
The recommendation will be forwarded to the common council for formal adoption.
