City Council reviews temporary sign regulations following resident complaints

The City of Dayton Planning Commission meeting on December 12, 2024, was dominated by discussions surrounding the regulation of temporary signs in city right-of-ways. Following a series of complaints about cluttered intersections filled with signs, the council had previously adopted an ordinance prohibiting such signage. This decision sparked mixed reactions from residents, leading to increased tensions, especially during the election season.

The primary focus of the meeting was whether temporary signs should be allowed in city right-of-ways. Council members expressed concerns about the ambiguity surrounding the boundaries of these right-of-ways, which can vary significantly throughout the city. One member noted the difficulty of determining where signs could be placed without infringing on the right-of-way, suggesting a clear guideline of placing signs at least ten feet from the edge of the roadway to simplify compliance.

The conversation also touched on the distinction between commercial and non-commercial signs. Members debated whether to allow signs for community events, such as garage sales and graduation parties, while restricting commercial signage. The consensus leaned towards prohibiting commercial signs in the right-of-way, with the understanding that non-commercial signs would still be permitted.

As the meeting progressed, members acknowledged the challenges of enforcing the ordinance effectively. Many expressed skepticism about the city's ability to manage the influx of signs, particularly from developers who often disregard regulations. The discussion highlighted the need for a balanced approach that allows community expression while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the city.

In conclusion, the commission is considering drafting a new ordinance that would prohibit commercial signage in the right-of-way while allowing non-commercial signs. This approach aims to address residents' concerns about clutter and maintain community spirit, with further discussions anticipated in the coming weeks.