Peachtree City Council denies Target's signage variance request during planning discussion

In a recent Peachtree City Council meeting, discussions centered around a proposed signage change for a local Target store, highlighting the complexities of municipal regulations and corporate compliance. The meeting, held on December 19, 2024, revealed a debate over the store's request for a variance to exceed existing signage limits.

The focal point of the discussion was a new "drive up" sign intended to facilitate curbside pickup, a service that gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, council members expressed concerns about the clarity of the signage, noting that the term "drive up" could be misleading since it refers to designated parking spaces rather than a traditional drive-through lane. The proposed sign would add to the store's existing signage, which already exceeds the city's ordinance limits.

Council members scrutinized the dimensions of the new signage, which includes a 78-square-foot "drive up" sign, alongside the existing 169-square-foot Target logo and a 37-square-foot CVS sign. The total signage area would surpass the allowable limits, prompting the need for a variance. However, some council members questioned the justification for granting such a variance, citing a lack of documented approval for the store's current signage.

As the discussion unfolded, differing opinions emerged. Some council members expressed support for allowing Target to replace its signs while adhering to the existing square footage, suggesting that the store should not be penalized for previous oversights in compliance. Others firmly opposed granting any variance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strict adherence to the city’s sign ordinances.

Ultimately, the council's deliberations underscored the ongoing tension between accommodating business needs and upholding community standards. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the decision on Target's signage would require further consideration, reflecting the council's commitment to balancing growth with regulatory compliance in Peachtree City.