Planning commission backs revised sign code, narrows prohibition on video displays

The Hot Springs Planning Commission on April 9 recommended that the Board of Directors adopt a comprehensive update to the city’s sign code (Title 16, Chapter 5), but the commission amended the draft to remove a blanket prohibition on video display screens and to explicitly bar animated spotlights and flashing signs.

Planning staff described Draft 2.0 (April 2, 2026) as the product of more than a year of work and 11 public work sessions. Key features in the proposal include administrative review for minor code deviations, illumination and brightness standards, new sign types, updated freestanding sign size and height limits, and permit-fee adjustments. Staff recommended forwarding the amended draft to the Board of Directors.

Two sign-industry representatives urged changes. Christopher Di Spazio of DX Signs said signs exist to "grab attention," cautioned that strict size/height limits and full overnight LED shutoffs could hurt businesses and recommended dimming instead of a complete shutoff. David Hamilton, CEO and corporate counsel for Size Sign Company and Yesco Arkansas, said he supported much of the draft but opposed lowering freestanding sign heights from 35 feet to 25 feet and reducing maximum areas for large developments (from 250 sq ft to 100 sq ft). "No business that I've spoken to supports that change. Not one," he told the commission.

A contested provision, section 16-5-23(B)(9), read in draft as prohibiting "animated video display screens, whether pre-recorded or streaming." Commissioners debated enforceability (how to measure clip length), whether existing large displays would be grandfathered and whether the city should prohibit live streaming of events. After discussion the commission amended the draft: it removed the blanket prohibition on video display screens and instead voted to prohibit animated spotlights and flashing signs; commissioners directed staff and the city attorney to refine the language before the Board hearing.

Commissioners also clarified that a proposed requirement to turn illuminated signs off between midnight and 6 a.m. applies only to signs within 150 feet of a residence. The commission adopted the amendment and voted to forward the amended sign-code draft to the Board for final consideration.

The Board of Directors will consider the amended sign code on May 5 at 6:00 p.m.; staff and the city attorney will review the revised language on video displays prior to that hearing.

Vote and next steps: The commission approved the amendment and forwarded the sign-code update to the Board; staff will produce revised draft language for Board review.