Are LED Signs Allowed in Bethlehem, Barrow County, Georgia? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
EMC Sign Allowed?
✅ Yes. EMC signs are allowed in the City of Bethlehem within certain commercial zoning districts.
"Electronic message signs, including LED or digital signs, are permitted in commercial zoning districts in accordance with size, height, and illumination standards as specified in the Bethlehem Unified Development Code (UDC)."
🔗 Full Ordinance – City of Bethlehem Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & GIS Map – City of Bethlehem Zoning & GIS Map
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Answer |
|---|---|
| Zoning districts that allow EMCs | Commercial (C-1, C-2) |
| EMC sign styles allowed | Wall, Freestanding, Monument |
| Off-premise EMCs allowed | ❌No |
| EMCs allowed in the public right-of-way | ❌No |
| Minimum setback required | 10 ft from property line |
| Use restrictions | On-premises commercial use only |
Zoning District Overview
Bethlehem regulates EMC signs through its commercial zoning districts:
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C-1: Central Business District
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C-2: Highway Business District
Total commercial districts allowing EMCs: 2
Commercial Zoning Table
| Requirement | C-1 | C-2 |
|---|---|---|
| EMC allowed | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Permitted sign types | Wall, Monument | Freestanding, Monument |
| Maximum number of EMCs | 1 per street frontage | 1 per street frontage |
| Maximum area | 24–50 sq. ft. | 100 sq. ft. |
| Maximum height | 20 ft | 30 ft |
| Static illumination allowed | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Animated signs | ❌Restricted | ❌Restricted |
| Mechanical motion | ❌No | ❌No |
| Off-premise content allowed | ❌No | ❌No |
| Right-of-way projection | ❌Not allowed | ❌Not allowed |
| Setback requirement | 10 ft | 10 ft |
Permit Filing Requirements
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Required forms: Sign Permit Application
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Permit fees: Based on sign size; check with city planning office
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Approval: Conditional use or planning review may be required
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Electrical permit: Required for internal lighting/LED
Local Project Examples (Optional)
If applicable, include photos and project details of EMC installations in Bethlehem commercial zones.
Full Ordinance Text (Verbatim)
Electronic Message Center (EMC) signs in Bethlehem are regulated under the Unified Development Code (UDC). EMCs are allowed in designated commercial zoning districts and must comply with size, height, illumination, and setback requirements. Off-premise messaging and placement in the public right-of-way are prohibited.
External Reference Links
🗺️ Bethlehem Zoning & GIS Map
📘 Bethlehem Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal