Highlands board backs change to temporary sign exemption, citing court rulings

The Highlands Borough Land Use Board voted to approve amendment 0-25-05 to the town’s sign ordinance, widening the temporary-sign exemption from two square feet to four square feet and removing language the board said had become vulnerable in light of recent First Amendment cases.

Board members framed the change as a clarification that affects temporary lawn signs — such as political, real-estate and short-term service notices — rather than permanent business signage anchored to buildings. A board member asked why the change was necessary; staff answered that portions of the older ordinance had to be excised or revised after recent court rulings affecting sign regulation.

The board moved to find the proposed ordinance not inconsistent with the master plan and approved the finding by roll call. Votes recorded in the hearing transcript show Mayor Bulan, Mr. Montavo, Mr. Sia, Mr. Zil, Miss Chang, Mr. Kramer, Mr. Cody, Vice Chair Tierney and Chair Knox voting yes.

The amendment narrows the town’s restriction focus to fixed business signs (which remain subject to permit) and treats small temporary lawn signs under the adjusted exemption. The board did not place further conditions on the amendment during the meeting.

The ordinance change will proceed through whatever final administrative steps are required by the borough code. Staff and board members said the update responds to legal developments and aims to reduce enforcement ambiguity going forward.