Are LED Signs Allowed in Austell, Douglas County, Georgia? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
EMC Sign Allowed?
✅ Yes, with restrictions. EMC signs are permitted within the City of Austell, but only in specific zoning districts and under strict operational conditions.
The city code states that "changeable copy signs", which include Electronic Message Centers, are subject to specific regulations to ensure they do not create traffic hazards or public nuisances.
🔗 Full Ordinance – City of Austell Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & Parcel View – City of Austell Zoning & Parcel View
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Answer |
|---|---|
| Zoning districts that allow EMCs | C-2, M-1 (by right); C-1 (with Conditional Use Permit) |
| EMC sign styles allowed | Freestanding, Monument |
| Off-premise EMCs allowed | ❌ No |
| EMCs allowed in the public right-of-way | ❌ No |
| Minimum setback required | 10 ft from any street right-of-way |
| Use restrictions | See "Operational Standards" below; not permitted in residential districts. |
Zoning District Overview
Austell's zoning ordinance specifically permits EMC signs in its commercial and industrial districts. The C-1 district requires an additional approval step.
-
C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial): EMCs allowed with a Conditional Use Permit.
-
C-2 (General Commercial): EMCs allowed by right.
-
M-1 (Industrial): EMCs allowed by right.
How to Use: Enter a property address in the Cobb County GIS viewer to determine its official Austell zoning designation.
Zoning-Specific Standards
The code provides general standards for all EMC signs, rather than breaking them down by individual district. The key distinction is the permissibility by district (as shown above), not differing size or operation rules.
General EMC Sign Requirements in Austell
| Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| EMC allowed | ✅ Yes, in C-1 (with CUP), C-2, M-1 |
| Permitted sign types | Freestanding, Monument |
| Maximum area | 50% of the total sign face area for the primary sign structure, not to exceed 40 sq. ft. |
| Maximum height | Subject to underlying zoning district standards for the primary sign type. |
| Static illumination allowed | ✅ Yes |
| Animated signs | ❌ No (Prohibited) |
| Mechanical motion | ❌ No (Prohibited) |
| Off-premise content allowed | ❌ No |
| Setback requirement | 10 feet from any street right-of-way |
Critical Operational Standards
Austell's code includes strict rules for how an EMC must function. Failure to comply with these can result in violations.
-
Message Duration: Each message must be held for a minimum of 10 seconds.
-
Transition Effect: Messages must change instantly. Scrolling, flashing, blinking, or animated transitions are prohibited.
-
Automatic Dimming: Signs must be equipped with an automatic dimming photocell (light sensor) that adjusts the brightness based on ambient light conditions.
Permit Filing Requirements
Installing an EMC sign in Austell requires a permit to ensure compliance with all zoning and building codes.
-
Required Forms: City of Austell Sign Permit Application, electrical permit, and site plan. For C-1 districts, a Conditional Use Permit application is also required.
-
Permit Fee: Varies based on sign valuation; contact the Austell Community Development Department for a fee schedule.
-
Our Service Fee: [Your Company Name] offers full-service permit filing and project management for EMC installations in Austell. Contact us for a custom quote.
Full Ordinance Text (Verbatim Excerpt)
The following is taken directly from the Austell, GA Code of Ordinances, Chapter 34.
§ 34-4 - Changeable copy signs.
Changeable copy signs, either manual or electronic, shall be permitted in the C-1, C-2 and M-1 districts, subject to the following:
(1) In the C-1 district, such signs shall be permitted only upon the granting of a conditional use permit.
(2) The changeable copy portion of the sign shall not exceed 50 percent of the sign face and shall be included within the maximum sign area permitted.
(3) The changeable copy portion of the sign shall not exceed 40 square feet.
(4) Electronic changeable copy signs shall be nonanimated, and the message shall be maintained for a minimum of ten seconds.
(5) All electronic changeable copy signs shall contain an automatic dimming photocell, which automatically adjusts the sign's brightness in direct correlation with ambient light conditions.
(6) Changeable copy signs shall be set back a minimum of ten feet from any street right-of-way.
§ 34-5 - Prohibited signs.
The following signs are prohibited within the city: ... (2) Animated signs; (3) Signs with moving parts; ... (9) Off-premises signs, except as otherwise provided in this chapter.
External References
🗺️ Austell Zoning & Parcel View
📘 Austell Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal