A Comprehensive Guide to Digital Sign Permitting in North Brunswick, NJ
Installing a digital sign in North Brunswick, NJ, requires careful planning to ensure compliance with local zoning regulations and permitting criteria. This guide outlines the critical aspects of digital sign permitting in the township, including size restrictions, placement guidelines, content rules, and prohibited features. Understanding these criteria will help you streamline the permitting process and avoid unnecessary delays.
1. Zoning Districts Permitting Digital Signs
Digital signs are allowed in specific zoning districts in North Brunswick. Ensure your proposed location is within one of these districts:
- C-1, C-2, G-O (General Office), ERR, O-R, I-1, and I-2 (Industrial-Limited and Industrial-General)
Each district has its own restrictions on the size, placement, and design of signs, so confirm the zoning classification of your property before proceeding.
2. Size Restrictions
The size of digital signs varies depending on the zoning district and property type. Here are the key guidelines:
Freestanding Signs
- I-1 and I-2 Districts: Maximum size of 150 square feet per sign face.
- Properties exceeding 100,000 square feet of gross floor area may have two freestanding signs, with a combined total not exceeding 150 square feet.
Attached Signs
- Attached signs may not exceed 10% of the front façade area of the building.
Digital Reader Boards
- The digital portion of a sign (e.g., LED displays) cannot exceed 12 square feet unless integrated into a larger permitted sign.
- Digital reader boards cannot constitute more than 75% of the total sign area.
3. Placement Guidelines
Proper placement ensures visibility and compliance with safety regulations:
- Distance from Property Lines: Freestanding signs must be located at least 35 feet from property lines.
- Right-of-Way Clearance: Signs cannot overhang public rights-of-way without a clearance of at least 8 feet.
- Traffic Safety: Signs must not obstruct traffic sightlines. Placement will be reviewed by the City Engineer to ensure pedestrian and vehicle safety.
- Spacing: For corner lots, freestanding sign bases must be at least 50 feet apart.
4. Content and Display Rules
Digital signs must adhere to specific operational guidelines:
Allowed Features
- Static messages or images displayed for a minimum of 8 seconds.
- Instantaneous transitions between messages (no scrolling, flashing, or animations).
- Adjustable brightness to ensure visibility without glare.
Prohibited Features
- Moving, flashing, or animated displays.
- Messages using colors or designs resembling traffic control devices.
- Content unrelated to the property on which the sign is located (e.g., off-site advertising).
5. Lighting and Brightness
Lighting for digital signs must not cause glare or impede visibility. Key considerations include:
- Auto-Dimming: Install a sensor to adjust brightness based on ambient light levels.
- Nighttime Operation: Limit brightness during nighttime hours to prevent disturbances to nearby residential properties.
6. Prohibited Signs
Avoid features that are expressly prohibited in North Brunswick:
- Roof-mounted signs.
- Signs that swing, rotate, or move.
- Portable signs or A-frame signs not explicitly approved.
- Signs obstructing fire escapes, stairways, or windows.