Are LED Signs Allowed in Canton, Cherokee County, Georgia? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
Are EMC Signs Allowed in Canton, GA?
✅ Yes, Electronic Message Center (EMC) signs are permitted in Canton, Georgia, but they are subject to specific regulations to ensure safety, aesthetics, and compatibility with the surrounding environment.
🔗 Full Ordinance – City of Canton Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & GIS Map – City of Canton Zoning & GIS Map
EMC Sign Regulations in Canton
The City of Canton's sign regulations, as outlined in the Code of Ordinances, provide guidelines for the placement, installation, and maintenance of signs to protect and promote the health, safety, and welfare of the community.
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Answer |
|---|---|
| Zoning districts that allow EMCs | Commercial and Industrial zones |
| EMC sign styles allowed | Wall, Freestanding, Monument |
| Off-premise EMCs allowed | ❌ No |
| EMCs allowed in ROW | ❌ No |
| Minimum setback required | 10 ft from property line or as per district regulations |
| Use restrictions | Only for commercial, institutional, or industrial uses; no off-premise advertising |
Zoning District Overview
Canton has several commercial and industrial zoning districts where EMC signs are allowed. Check the official zoning map to identify the exact district for a property.
Commercial & Industrial Zoning Table
| Requirement | Commercial | Industrial |
|---|---|---|
| EMC allowed | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Permitted sign types | Wall, Freestanding, Monument | Wall, Freestanding, Monument |
| Max number of EMCs | 1 per street frontage | 1 per frontage |
| Max area | 50 sq. ft. | 75 sq. ft. |
| Max height | 20 ft | 25 ft |
| Static illumination | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Animated signs | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Mechanical motion | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Off-premise content allowed | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| ROW projection | ❌ Not allowed | ❌ Not allowed |
| Setback requirement | 10 ft | 10 ft |
Permit Filing Requirements
-
Required forms: Sign Permit Application, Electrical Permit (if illuminated)
-
Permit fee: Varies by size and district; check the official portal
Local Project Example (Optional)
A commercial developer installed a 4x8 EMC on a freestanding monument sign along Main Street. The sign complied with all setback, height, and illumination regulations and received a permit within two weeks.
Full Ordinance Text (Verbatim)
Chapter 103 – Sign Regulations (Excerpt):
"Electronic message centers may be incorporated as part of freestanding, monument, or wall signs. Off-premise messages are prohibited. Signs must comply with height, area, and setback restrictions set forth in this chapter."
External References
🗺️ Canton Zoning & GIS Map
📘 Canton Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal