Council adopts sign ordinance, limits digital off‑site advertising to C2 zones

The Crescent City Council adopted Ordinance 861, amending Chapter 17.9 of the municipal code to set new limits on digital and off‑site signs.

Key provisions: the ordinance limits digital signs and off‑site advertising to properties in the C2 commercial zone, sets a maximum sign area of 32 square feet and requires 1,750 linear feet between qualifying signs. Staff noted the ordinance reflects multiple months of planning‑commission work and council compromise.

Council action: after public comment expressing concerns about aesthetics, wildlife and distracted driving—and some business owners warning of an added regulatory burden—the council adopted the ordinance by roll call; one council member recorded a 'no' vote. The ordinance will become effective 30 days after adoption unless further action is taken.

Why it matters: The measure narrows where commercial digital signage may appear along the highway and downtown corridors while giving the council a tool to manage visual character and potential safety impacts. Business owners argue the rules are lengthy and could be a regulatory hurdle for small enterprises; supporters said the limits protect the city's coastal aesthetic and migratory‑bird habitat.

What’s next: Staff will publish the ordinance text and implementation guidelines; planning staff will oversee permit applications and spacing enforcement.

Source attribution: Ordinance language and council roll‑call votes were taken from the March council meeting's public hearing and adoption record.