Are LED Signs Allowed in Carrollton, Carroll County, Georgia? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
EMC Signs in Carrollton, Georgia: What You Need to Know
✅ Yes, Electronic Message Center (EMC) signs—referred to as Electronic Reader Boards—are permitted in Carrollton, Georgia, but they are subject to specific regulations outlined in the City of Carrollton Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to ensure safety, aesthetics, and compatibility with the surrounding environment.
🔗 Full Ordinance – City of Carrollton Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & GIS Map – City of Carrollton Zoning & GIS Map
Zoning Districts and EMC Sign Allowance
According to the City of Carrollton’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), particularly Article 5.04.04, EMC signs—classified as Electronic Reader Boards—are allowed in certain zoning districts. The ordinance establishes standards for signage to ensure safety, aesthetics, and compatibility with surrounding areas.
Key Provisions:
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Zoning Districts: EMC signs are generally allowed in commercial (C-2) and industrial (M-1, M-2) zones. Installation in residential, overlay, or downtown zones such as C-1 Central Business District, Maple Street Overlay, and Lake Carroll Village Overlay is prohibited.
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Size and Height: The maximum EMC display area is 24 square feet. Overall sign height and area must also comply with zoning district sign regulations.
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Illumination: EMCs must maintain fixed light intensity and comply with brightness standards to prevent glare and light pollution. Flashing or variable brightness lighting is not permitted.
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Display Interval: Messages or images must remain static for a minimum of two (2) seconds before changing.
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Setbacks: Signs must be set back the required distance from property lines and rights-of-way according to district standards.
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Zoning Districts | Commercial (C-2), Industrial (M-1, M-2) |
| Maximum Sign Area | 24 sq. ft. (display area for reader board) |
| Maximum Sign Height | As per district regulations |
| Illumination Standards | Fixed intensity; no flashing or variable brightness |
| Message Change Interval | Minimum 2 seconds |
| Setback Requirements | Must comply with district standards |
Zoning-Specific Standards
Commercial Zoning Districts
| Requirement | Commercial Districts (C-2) |
|---|---|
| EMC Allowed | ✅ Yes |
| Maximum Sign Area | 24 sq. ft. (reader board portion) |
| Maximum Sign Height | As per district regulations |
| Illumination Standards | Fixed light intensity; no flashing |
| Message Change Interval | 2 seconds minimum |
| Setback Requirements | Must adhere to required distances from property lines and rights-of-way |
Industrial Zoning Districts
| Requirement | Industrial Districts (M-1, M-2) |
|---|---|
| EMC Allowed | ✅ Yes |
| Maximum Sign Area | 24 sq. ft. (reader board portion) |
| Maximum Sign Height | As per district regulations |
| Illumination Standards | Fixed light intensity; no flashing |
| Message Change Interval | 2 seconds minimum |
| Setback Requirements | Must adhere to required distances from property lines and rights-of-way |
Residential, Overlay, and Downtown Zoning Districts
| Requirement | C-1, Overlay, Residential Districts |
|---|---|
| EMC Allowed | ❌ No (prohibited) |
| Maximum Sign Area | ❌ N/A |
| Maximum Sign Height | ❌ N/A |
| Illumination Standards | ❌ N/A |
| Setback Requirements | ❌ N/A |
Permit Filing Requirements
To install an EMC sign in Carrollton:
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Determine Zoning: Verify the property’s zoning classification using the City of Carrollton’s Zoning Map.
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Application Submission: Complete the Sign Permit Application available from the Planning & Zoning Department.
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Required Documents: Submit the following with your application:
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Site plan showing sign location and setbacks
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Sign specifications (size, height, illumination details)
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Zoning district information
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Review Process: The Planning & Zoning Department will review the application for compliance with the zoning ordinance.
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Approval: Once approved, a permit will be issued for EMC installation.
Note: Additional permits may be required for electrical connections or installations near public rights-of-way.
Local Project Examples
Businesses in commercial and industrial zones within Carrollton have successfully installed EMC (electronic reader board) signs by following city zoning regulations. For assistance with project review or compliance, consulting the Planning & Zoning Department is recommended.
Full Ordinance Text
Carrollton’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) provides detailed regulations for all types of signage, including Electronic Reader Boards (EMCs). Key points from Article 5.04.04 include:
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Permitted Sign Types: Ground signs, monument signs, wall signs, and electronic reader boards in non-residential zones.
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Size and Height Limits: Maximum sign area and height vary by zoning district to maintain visual harmony and safety.
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Setback Requirements: Signs must maintain required distances from property lines and rights-of-way.
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Illumination Standards: EMCs must use fixed light intensity to prevent glare or distraction.
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Display Restrictions: Message changes must occur no faster than every two (2) seconds; flashing or scrolling is not allowed.
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Permit Requirements: All EMC installations require a formal Sign Permit including site plans, specifications, and zoning verification.
External Reference Links
🗺️ Carrollton Zoning & GIS Map
📘 Carrollton Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal