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Planning staff propose sign-code revisions to streamline downtown waivers and allow larger freeway-facing signage
Summary
Staff reported proposed Garland Development Code changes to sign standards, including clearer tables, a new 'iconic signs' designation and streamlined review, and larger allowable sign area near major highways to improve visibility.
Planning staff presented proposed revisions to Garland’s sign standards during the July 20 work session that would simplify sign rules, create an "iconic sign" designation for unique downtown features, and permit larger signs near freeways for visibility.
Naveen Leonard, director of planning and development, said the amendment consolidates language into tables to make it easier for applicants to find requirements and reduces the number of discretionary waiver requests. He described a new process to designate existing or proposed iconic signs — such as notable downtown identifiers — that would come to city council and could streamline appeals and predictability for applicants. The proposal also would permit larger signs adjacent to primary freeways (I‑30, I‑635 and State Highway 190), allowing up to a 2x size multiplier and, in some high‑mounted façade cases, a 3x multiplier to reflect visibility needs.
Council members asked whether square-foot limits should be expressed as a percentage of façade area and raised questions about how downtown waivers would be routed; staff said Plan Commission had reviewed the amendments and the matter will return as a public hearing item for final adoption. Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Dutton recorded an opposition position on the current framing during the work session Q&A.
