Design Review Board discusses tightening sign code: 25% per 'window element,' 24 sq ft cap and closing permit gap

At a work session following the hearings, the Cannon Beach Design Review Board discussed proposed revisions to the city sign code to clarify how window signage will be measured and enforced.

Staff presented options and the board debated three central choices: applying a 25 percent maximum to each 'window element' (for example, a divided‑light window assembly), applying 25 percent to individual panes, or calculating 25 percent against total frontage. Several board members said they preferred applying 25 percent to the window element rather than to each pane to avoid an outcome that would allow excessive coverage of a multi‑pane window assembly. The board also discussed a 24‑square‑foot overall signage cap and sought clearer definitions to prevent a gap between incidental signs (1.5 sq ft) and permanent signs (4 sq ft) from creating an unintended exemption.

Members raised enforcement concerns: one member noted a possible loophole if decals or small signs under 4 square feet could be used repeatedly to approximate a permanent sign without a permit. Staff agreed to redraft the language, add a definition of 'window element' and provide a graphic to illustrate the calculation. The board also asked staff to clarify the permanent‑sign definition so it explicitly includes awning and window signs of 4 square feet or more and to remove ambiguity in the permit thresholds.

The discussion did not change code text at the meeting; staff will return with revised ordinance language and diagrams for further review.