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Commission approves projecting sign at 111 North Charles; staff flags ordinance wording
Summary
The commission approved a projecting sign at 111 North Charles Street, while staff said the current ordinance limits projecting signs to address and occupant name and that a text amendment is being considered to allow logos/artwork; proof of insurance is required before final approval.
The Charles Town Historic Landmarks Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a projecting sign at 111 North Charles Street on Dec. 9, but staff advised the applicant the current ordinance language is restrictive.
James presented the application and showed the proposed sign location and design, which uses wood materials and measures approximately 2 feet by 3 feet. He noted, "the ordinance does state that a projecting or suspended sign shall only include the address and name of the occupant," and that the proposed sign includes additional language not permitted under the current code. James told the commission he planned to advance a text amendment at planning commission and city council to allow an address, name and a logo or artwork.
Commissioners opened the public hearing, heard no public comment, and approved the COA with the stipulation that the applicant provide proof of insurance. Chair asked staff to follow up; James said he would email the applicant with details the next morning. The commission noted the design guidelines favor painted wood signs but accepted staff’s recommendation given the applicant’s materials and pending ordinance changes.
The approval allows installation pending submission of the required insurance documentation; the applicant was advised that any ordinance variance remains contingent on future code revisions.
