SUBJECT:
Title
Second and Final Public Hearing to Consider an Ordinance Amending the Marion County Land Development Code Article 4, Division 4, Advertising Signs, Section 4.4.5 Off-Site Signs
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INITIATOR: |
DEPARTMENT: |
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Kenneth Weyrauch, Deputy Director |
Growth Services |
DESCRIPTION/BACKGROUND:
This is the second and final public hearing on a privately initiated amendment to the Land Development Code (LDC) concerning Article 4, Division 4, Section 4.4.5 Off-Site Signs, filed by Todd Rudnianyn on behalf of International Property Services Corporation. The Board’s first public hearing was held on October 22, 2026. The Land Development Regulation Commission (LDRC) recommended approval of the amendments with additional modifications during their public hearing on September 30, 2026.
An ordinance has been prepared to amend the LDC. In summary, the changes proposed are:
1. Side setback exception (applicant’s main request). Currently, off-site signs must be setback a minimum of 15 feet from every property line. The request seeks to allow an off-site sign inside the 15-feet side setback when between commercial or industrial parcels. The sign’s pole and foundation must sit entirely on one parcel; only the sign face may hang over the shared property line. If the sign face hangs over another parcel, an easement is required. When a sign is being placed within the 15-feet side setback area, a survey is required before permitting.
Also, per Board discussion during the first public hearing, staff was asked to consider clearance requirements beneath the sign in consideration of buffer and landscape plantings. Staff believe that code requirements for landscaping and buffering can still be met and have added clarifying language. However, it should be noted that the applicant has the option to seek a waiver to the other code sections concerning buffers, plantings, etc.
2. Separation from existing homes. Currently, off-site signs must be 300 feet from residentially zoned property. The amendment adds the words “or use,” so the 300-feet separation also protects existing homes on commercial, industrial, or agricultural land.
Staff’s GIS analysis estimates Change 1 adds an estimated 63 off-site sign locations along major roads; Change 2 removes an estimated 232 locations. Staff oppose Change 1 because it places large structures (up to 50 feet tall, with faces up to 675 square feet) in the side setbacks normally used for landscaping and open space, which staff finds inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan. Staff does support Change 2.
BUDGET/IMPACT:
None
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Recommended action
Take public comment and motion to adopt the ordinance amending LDC Section 4.4.5, Off-Site Signs, with only Change 2 and to deny Change 1.
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