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Ocean View board approves variance allowing two larger wall signs for new retail store
Summary
The Board of Adjustment approved a variance allowing two wall signs (about 19 sq ft and 25 sq ft) for a new retail location at 1 Toown Road, finding practical difficulty with the site; approval was unanimous and the town required no further conditions for the sign itself.
The Town of Ocean View Board of Adjustment voted to approve a request allowing two wall signs larger than the 10-square-foot maximum for a new retail business at 1 Toown Road.
The board approved application V-457 after hearing from the property owner, Jim Wer, who said the proposed signs are sized at about 19 square feet and 25 square feet and that the 10-square-foot limit is too small given a 30-to-40-foot building setback that reduces on-street visibility. Town staff told the board it was not opposed to the variance because of the building’s orientation and distance from the town road.
Why it matters: The decision permits the business, identified in the application as Bethany Beach Billiards by RR Games, to install two external wall signs to increase visibility to customers. The applicant described the location as a retail/home-recreation store, said the business will open gradually (initially limited days and no late-evening hours), and confirmed parking is available.
Board discussion focused on readability and scale. A board member said there is an “exceptional practical difficulty” created by the building’s placement and construction, and moved to approve the variance. The motion was seconded; the board voted “all in favor” and the application carried.
Authorities and procedure: The application requested relief from Article 10 Section 14065, which limits businesses to one wall sign with a maximum area of 10 square feet. The board’s action grants relief for two signs exceeding that limit for the property listed in the application.
What’s next: The variance was approved at the meeting and no further conditions were recorded in the transcript regarding sign installation. The applicant may proceed consistent with the town’s building and sign-permit processes.
