BZA approves illuminated sign variance at 1038 University Ave.; applicant to turn sign off after hours
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Summary
The board granted a variance allowing internal illumination of channel‑letter signage at 1038 University Avenue, noting similar illuminated signs exist on the building; applicant said illumination will be turned off after business hours.
The Morgantown Board of Zoning Appeals on Nov. 20 approved VAR25‑106, granting a variance to allow internally illuminated channel letters at 1038 University Avenue. Staff said the sign dimensions comply with district standards but internal illumination is not permitted; staff had no objection to relief for illumination only and noted the standard condition.
Applicant representative Avi said the sign is backlit LED, comparable or smaller than existing tenant signs on the same building and surrounding properties, and that the tenant would turn illumination off at close. Board members discussed the city’s pending sign‑ordinance rewrite and indicated administration and the new city planner are working on a comprehensive update; until the ordinance is revised, the BZA considers individual requests.
The public hearing produced no speakers. The board accepted the findings of fact and granted the variance for illumination subject to the standard planning condition. Planning will send written notification; the chair reminded the applicant of the 30‑day appeal window.