Board legalizes existing nonconforming bank signs at 435 Main Street

The North Castle Zoning Board of Appeals approved requested variances to legalize and replace existing nonconforming signage at 435 Main Street.

Allison Milano of Sign Star told the board the proposal is a refresh of the existing bank signs: one front wall sign (16 inches by 5 feet, 6 inches), two side wall signs and several directional and informational signs, using externally illuminated channel letters where existing gooseneck lighting remains. "We are just replacing them," Milano said. She said the directional signs will be non-illuminated and retain roughly the same footprint as the existing pieces.

Board members confirmed that the project is not adding new wall signs but seeks to legalize a third wall sign and replace current directional signs with slightly larger panels (applicant said the directional signs are roughly 3' x 2', about 6 sq ft, and that the municipal code limits directional signs to 1 sq ft). A committee member noted, "So, the ordinance is 1 square foot," during the discussion of nonconformity.

After board members asked clarifying questions, the board closed the hearing, took a motion and voted to approve the variances. The applicant was reminded that building permits and the town’s standard inspection process will ensure any illumination or installation conditions are met before final sign installation.

Why it matters: The board’s action regularizes existing, in-place signage and permits modest design updates while keeping enforcement (illuminance and installation) within the building-permit and inspection process.

Next steps: Applicant may proceed with permit filings; sign installation will be subject to building-department review.