North Charleston, August 9, 2025
News Summary
In North Charleston, Christina and Josh Jettie are appealing a ruling by the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals, which deemed their commissioned mural a violation of residential signage regulations. The mural, created by artist Riivo Kruuk, features a woman with a cormorant’s beak against a black background. The Jetties argue that the artwork is not a sign since it contains no commercial messages and advocate for changes to allow murals in residential areas, while zoning laws currently restrict murals to eight square feet.
North Charleston – A couple in North Charleston is appealing a decision by the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals regarding a mural they commissioned for their guest house. Christina and Josh Jettie engaged local artist Riivo Kruuk to create a mural featuring a woman with a cormorant’s beak, set against a striking black background. However, the city’s zoning department has determined that the mural violates local regulations concerning signage in residential areas.
The Jetties received a notification from the zoning department indicating that the mural exceeds the size limit set by city regulations, which restrict signs in residential neighborhoods to a maximum of eight square feet. More lenient size restrictions are applicable to commercial districts, allowing for larger artistic expressions. In response, the Jetties contested the city’s ruling at the Board of Zoning Appeals on August 4, 2025, but the board upheld the city’s decision, citing that the mural indeed exceeded the permitted dimensions.
This case marks a significant first in North Charleston, as it is the inaugural instance of a residential mural being contested under existing zoning laws. The Jetties received considerable positive feedback from their neighbors during the mural’s creation, suggesting a level of community support. The couple contends that the mural should not be considered a sign, as it contains no commercial messages or advertising, and merely exists as a piece of art.
Their appeal is not only focused on preserving this particular mural but also aims to advocate for broader changes in city regulations. They are hoping to encourage the City Council to amend current ordinances to permit murals on residential properties, aligning them more closely with provisions already in place for commercial areas. The director of planning and zoning has reaffirmed that the mural does not qualify for any existing exemptions within the code, indicating a rigid interpretation of the law.
Historically, similar situations have prompted changes in local regulations to foster artistic expression. For instance, a previous case involving a mural in nearby Mount Pleasant led to adjustments in local policies, enabling public art to flourish within community spaces.
Despite the ongoing appeal, City Councilman Brandon Hudson expressed the importance of upholding existing regulations on signage in residential neighborhoods to avoid potential aesthetic issues. The Jetties continue their fight, seeking a resolution that promotes art while also navigating the complexities of zoning laws in North Charleston.
Background Context
The city’s zoning code restricts signage in residential areas to maintain the overall aesthetic and consistency of neighborhoods. The regulations are designed to prevent potential distractions or disruptions caused by excess visual clutter. However, as public interest in artistic expression grows, conversations about how to balance community aesthetics with artistic freedom are becoming increasingly prevalent.
Key Features of the Appeal
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Couple Involved | Christina and Josh Jettie |
| Artist | Riivo Kruuk |
| Artwork Description | A woman with a cormorant’s beak on her head, black background |
| Status of Mural | Contested by the city as a violation of zoning regulations |
| Size Restriction | Maximum of 8 square feet for residential zones |
| Board Decision | Upheld the city’s ruling on August 4, 2025 |
| Future Plans | Appeal to City Council for changes in ordinances |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue involving the Jetties’ mural?
The Jetties are appealing a city decision that deemed their mural a violation of zoning regulations, which limit signs in residential areas to eight square feet.
Why do the Jetties believe their mural shouldn’t be classified as a sign?
They argue that the mural does not contain any advertising or commercial messages and should be considered purely a piece of art.
What changes do the Jetties hope to see regarding zoning laws?
They are advocating for amendments that would allow murals in residential areas, similar to the provisions in commercial zones.
What precedent has been set by other local cases involving murals?
A previous mural in Mount Pleasant prompted changes in local regulations to accommodate public art, suggesting a potential for similar outcomes in North Charleston.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Charleston Area
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Charleston County
Charleston Prepares for Severe Thunderstorms and Flooding
Stephen Bowden Announces Reelection Campaign for Charleston City Council
North Charleston Artists Call for Mural Ordinance Change
North Charleston’s Culinary Scene Flourishes with New Eateries and Local Favorites
Charleston Expands Housing with New Coming Street Commons Project
College of Charleston Announces New Student Housing Project
College of Charleston Approves Demolition of YWCA Building
College of Charleston Moves to Demolish Historic YWCA Building
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Mural on Residential Home North Charleston
- Wikipedia: Zoning
- Count on 2: North Charleston Couple Pushes to Keep Mural
- Google Search: North Charleston mural
- ABC News 4: North Charleston Walmart with Local Art
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mural
- Post and Courier: North Charleston Mural Sign
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
