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Zoning board approves additional directional signs for Barrett Acupuncture with state coordination condition
Summary
ScarboroughZoning Board approved a request from Barrett Acupuncture to allow up to four official directional signs, conditioning approval on coordination with state DOT so the signsare consistent in size and placement.
Kath Bartlett, who said she operates Barrett Acupuncture from Oakill Terrace, asked the Scarborough Zoning Board of Appeals to allow additional official directional signs after the state denied two Route One sign permits unless complementary directional signs on Gorm Road clarified turns to Oakill Terrace.
Bartlett told the board her landlord would not allow business signage on the building and that patients — especially seniors — struggle to find the office without clearer roadside direction. She said she had obtained a local permit for two signs on Route One but that the state DOT returned the application, requesting additional directional signs so motorists can complete the necessary turns safely and reliably.
Board staff and members reviewed the applicable ordinance criteria for official business directional signs, noting the town ordinance caps sign size at 16 by 72 inches but that the state typically makes placement and exact-size determinations for state-maintained highways. Board members agreed the proximity to Route One and the number of turns required to reach Oakill Terrace meet the ordinance criterion for additional directional signs (excessive turns/confusing route). Members also expressed a preference that the applicant use the smallest DOT-approved sign size consistent with neighboring signs for visual consistency and safety.
A motion to approve appeal 2540 (Kath Bartlett / Barrett Acupuncture) passed unanimously. The approval allows up to four official directional signs and includes a condition that the code enforcement officer coordinate with the state to ensure sign size and placement are consistent with existing local DOT signs and that the smallest DOT-approved size be used where appropriate.
The decision notes the state maintains authority over exact placement and that the applicant is responsible for fabrication to DOT-certified standards. Board staff offered to verify existing post locations and sign sizes in the area to help ensure consistency. Bartlett said she appreciated the board's assistance and that she needs the signs so patients can locate her practice.
