City to Ease Rules for Window Signs

CYPRESS — In a compromise move, the City Council has asked that a new city law be drafted on the amount of temporary signs allowed on storefront windows.

The law, which is infrequently enforced, forbids stores to put signs on more than 10% of window space. A new city ordinance, scheduled to be introduced Aug. 8, will allow stores to cover up to 50% of their windows with temporary signs.

The compromise is aimed at cracking down on stores that cover virtually all window space with signs. It is also designed to help store owners who feel they need part of their windows for paper and cardboard signs advertising temporary sales.

The issue first surfaced in February, when some council members said that excessive signs make it easier for criminals to rob stores, unseen from the street.

Councilman Walter K. Bowman, however, said the council should not impede businesses. If store owners “feel it’s a safety issue, they’ll take the signs down,” he said.

Bowman said at least half of the store windows should be available for temporary signs.

After some debate, others on the council agreed with him with a 5 to 0 vote.