Sign Variance Public Hearing - New South Memphis

Signs and Advertising Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

This notice explains the public hearing process for a sign variance application in New South Memphis, Tennessee, who enforces sign rules, and how residents and applicants can act. Local sign standards and variance procedures are governed by the City of Memphis regulatory framework and reviewed by the Board of Adjustment; applicants should review the municipal sign provisions and Board of Adjustment rules before filing a request[1][2].

Overview of Sign Variances

A sign variance allows an applicant to request relief from specific dimensional, placement, or illumination standards in the city sign ordinance when strict application would cause practical difficulties. The Board of Adjustment hears variance petitions and holds a public hearing where neighbors and stakeholders may comment.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of sign rules is handled by the City of Memphis code enforcement and permitting divisions; violations can trigger administrative penalties, removal orders, and court action. Specific monetary fines and schedules are not specified on the cited municipal code page and must be confirmed with the permitting or code enforcement office[1].

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; check code enforcement for current fines and schedules[1].
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences escalation ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, stop-work orders, seizure of noncompliant signs, and civil court actions are available remedies under city enforcement rules.
  • Enforcer and appeals: the permitting or code enforcement office issues orders; appeals and variance requests are processed by the Board of Adjustment (see application procedures)[2].
Appeal deadlines and exact fines must be confirmed with the City of Memphis permitting or code enforcement office.

Applications & Forms

Applications for a sign variance are filed with the Board of Adjustment or the city office designated on the Board of Adjustment page; fees and application packet details are published by the Board and permitting office, or else are not specified on the cited page[2].

  • Application form: Board of Adjustment variance application (name and filing instructions on the Board page). If a downloadable form is not posted, contact the Board or permitting office directly for the packet.
  • Filing fee: not specified on the cited page; verify fee amount with the Board or Permit Center.
  • Hearing schedule: public hearing dates are set by the Board; file early to meet agenda deadlines.
  • Submission: follow instructions on the Board of Adjustment and Permit Center pages for electronic or in-person submission.

How hearings work

After filing, staff review the application for completeness and provide a staff report; public notice is posted and mailed as required. The Board conducts the hearing, accepts public testimony, and issues a decision or conditions. Typical outcomes: approval, approval with conditions, or denial.

Public comment is accepted at the hearing and may affect the Board's decision.

Action Steps

  • Confirm applicable sign standards in the municipal sign chapter and collect site drawings and photos.
  • Contact the Board of Adjustment or Permit Center early to learn filing deadlines and hearing dates.
  • Pay any application fees and submit the complete packet as instructed.
  • Attend the public hearing and bring written statements or exhibits.
  • If you receive an enforcement notice, follow the compliance or appeal instructions promptly.

FAQ

Who decides sign variance requests?
The Board of Adjustment reviews and decides variance applications for sign standards in the City of Memphis.
How do I find the sign code standards that apply?
Consult the City of Memphis municipal code sign chapter and the Planning/Permit Center for the specific zoning district standards[1].
Can neighbours speak at the hearing?
Yes, public comment is accepted at the Board hearing and is part of the formal record.

How-To

  1. Review the municipal sign chapter and Board of Adjustment rules to confirm the need for a variance[1].
  2. Prepare the application packet with site plans, photographs, and a written statement of hardship.
  3. File the variance application with the Board or Permit Center and pay any required fee.
  4. Receive public notice, attend the scheduled hearing, and present evidence and testimony.
  5. If denied, review appeal or re-application options with the Board or legal counsel within the time limits stated in the decision.

Key Takeaways

  • Start early: hearing schedules and staff review require lead time.
  • Document practical difficulty clearly; the Board bases variance decisions on demonstrated hardship.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Memphis Code of Ordinances - municipal code (sign regulations)
  2. [2] City of Memphis Board of Adjustment information and application guidance

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