Design Commission approves signage for 814 Foothill Boulevard with centering and lighting conditions

The Design Commission approved a request for new non‑illuminated window and awning signage at 814 Foothill Boulevard, subject to conditions that the signage be centered on the two panels immediately left and right of the front door and that unpermitted roof‑perimeter lighting be removed unless the applicant submits it to staff for approval.

Planning staff summarized the application and recommended approval, saying the two proposed vinyl window signs and awning signs contribute to a total proposed sign area of "32 square feet, and this complies with the maximum allowed standard of 40 square feet based on the 40 foot width or frontage of the building" (Staff member). Staff described the wordmark as 7.5 feet by 2.5 feet and a circular logo 4 feet in diameter and noted incidental door-window stickers that are exempt from area calculations.

Applicant Varush Bejanian introduced himself as the business owner and said branding drove the sign design. "City gave us 40 square feet," he said, and "we went 37," noting the application stays under the maximum. Commissioners pressed for accuracy in the renderings, discussed centering the copy and logo within the immediate glass panels flanking the door, and asked about awning materials and lighting.

Commissioners expressed concern about string lights and prior lighting work that may have been installed without permits. Commissioner (S2) argued removal was appropriate, saying it "would not be appropriate" to retain perimeter string lighting that does not enhance signage and can contribute to light‑pollution concerns. Staff confirmed earlier lighting components applied by the previous business may not have been submitted to staff and recommended a condition to remove such lighting unless the applicant seeks retrospective review.

Commissioner (S2) moved to approve the sign permit with the conditions described above; Commissioner (S3) seconded. The commission voted "Aye" and approved the draft resolution and conditions. The applicant said he would comply and preferred to avoid replacing awning material if removal would damage it; commissioners noted repainting or vinyl applications were options if removal proved necessary.

The commission's action authorizes the specified new window and awning signs at 814 Foothill Boulevard to proceed with the centering and lighting conditions applied by the commission.