Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-18-06-063 — PALM GARDEN ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

Request: Variance in the R-3 zoning district to allow a second 32 sq. ft. ground mounted sign on a residentially zoned property containing a Convalescent Care Facility and an Assisted Living Facility located on the same parcel.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: Staff noted that the subject property was over 15 acres in size. There were two (2) separate and distinct uses on the property, the convalescent care facility and the Assisted living facility (ALF). The ALF is located over 200 ft. back from Econ. Trail, and situated nearly entirely behind the care facility. The new sign would aid those who were not familiar with the area in locating the ALF. Staff also noted that if the property were zoned commercial, due to its size and frontage, it would be entitled to two ground, or pole mounted signs. Both of which could be much larger. However, the applicant simply wishes to duplicate the existing sign which is located at the mid point of the property's frontage on Econ. Trail. The site has over 400 ft. of frontage on Econ. Trail. The new sign will be located at the main entrance to the ALF, over 200 ft. to the south. There will be no sign clutter, therefore the request meets the purpose and intent of the Code. A representative of the property stated that the new sign will assist with locating the ALF, which is far back from the front property line. They only wish to duplicate the existing sign and no more. There being no one to speak for or against the request, the public hearing was closed. The BZA concluded that given the size of the property, the second sign was warranted, and would improve safety by clearly identifying the entrance to the ALF. A motion to recommend approval of the variance passed unanimously.