Board of Zoning Appeals May 26, 2026

The City of Aiken Board of Zoning Appeals met on May 26, 2026, to consider variance requests related to signage and setback requirements. A key procurement-related discussion involved a variance request from THMS Enterprises for temporary signage at 1680 Richland Avenue West. The board reviewed the size and duration of banners exceeding city ordinance limits, ultimately approving a variance allowing the oversized banners to remain temporarily until the business opening, after which signage must comply with city regulations. The applicant noted the cost implications of replacing non-compliant signs and confirmed a permanent sign was in production. Another variance request concerned reduced side and rear yard setbacks at a residential property on English Oak Lane Northwest, where construction encroachments were discovered post-permit approval. The board discussed the lack of pre-construction surveys and inspection oversights that led to the encroachments. No direct contract awards or procurement actions were taken, but the signage variance approval and discussion of sign vendor costs were notable procurement-related elements.