Are LED Signs Allowed in Clarkston, DeKalb County, Georgia? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
EMC Sign Allowed?
✅ Yes, Clarkston permits EMCs, but only as part of monument signs or window signs in non-residential zoning districts (such as RC, NC-1, NC-2, TC, and I).
“Electronic message displays may be included within a monument sign, provided the display does not exceed twenty (20) percent of the total sign face, and that the message does not change more frequently than once every ten (10) seconds.”
(Clarkston Code of Ordinances, §15.5-64(d))
Flashing, animated, or scrolling displays are not permitted:
“No sign shall flash, blink, or simulate motion. Illumination must be constant and non-flashing.”
(§15.5-4(b); §15.5-42)
🔗 Full Ordinance – City of Clarkston Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & GIS Map – City of Clarkston Zoning & GIS Map
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Answer |
|---|---|
| Zoning districts that allow EMCs | RC, NC-1, NC-2, TC, I (non-residential districts) |
| EMC sign styles allowed | Monument, Window |
| Off-premise EMCs allowed | Only as electronic billboards along U.S. Hwy 78 |
| EMCs allowed in the public right-of-way | ❌ No |
| Minimum setback required | Same as monument sign requirements (typically 10 ft from ROW) |
| Use restrictions | Commercial and industrial uses only; prohibited in residential zones |
Zoning District Overview
Clarkston’s zoning framework includes several residential and non-residential districts that govern signage:
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Residential Districts (No EMCs Allowed): NR-1, NR-2, NR-3, NR-CD
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Non-Residential Districts (EMCs Permitted): RC (Residential-Commercial), NC-1, NC-2 (Neighborhood Commercial), TC (Town Center), I (Industrial)
Zoning-Specific Standards
Commercial & Industrial Districts
| Requirement | RC / NC-1 / NC-2 / TC / I |
|---|---|
| EMC allowed | ✅ Yes (Monument or Window only) |
| Max EMC area | 20% of total sign face |
| Message change frequency | Once every 10 seconds |
| Illumination | Max 0.20 foot-candles above ambient light at 125 ft |
| Flashing or motion | ❌ Not permitted |
| Max height (monument sign) | 8 ft (single tenant) / 10 ft (multi-tenant) |
| Max area (monument sign) | 80–100 sq. ft. total (includes EMC component) |
| Off-premise digital billboard | Allowed only along U.S. Hwy 78 (per GDOT rules) |
Permit Filing Requirements
To install an EMC sign in Clarkston, you must apply for a Sign Permit through the City’s Building Department.
Required forms:
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Sign Permit Application
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Electrical Permit (if new wiring or illumination involved)
Typical fees:
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Sign Permit: Approx. $50–$200 depending on size and lighting
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Electrical Permit: Varies by contractor
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LED Sign City service fee (optional): $325 flat rate for filing and documentation
Local Project Example
LED Sign City installed a monument-style EMC for a community center along Market Street (NC-2 District). The display was 6 ft tall, with a digital section covering 15% of the sign face. The permit was approved within 10 business days.
Full Ordinance Text (Excerpt)
Section 15.5-64(d): Monument Signs
“Electronic message displays may be included within a monument sign, provided that the display does not exceed twenty (20) percent of the total sign face area, and the message does not change more frequently than once every ten (10) seconds. Displays shall not flash, blink, or simulate motion. Illumination levels shall not exceed 0.20 foot-candles above ambient light, measured at a distance of one hundred twenty-five (125) feet.”
Section 15.5-4(b): Illumination Standards
“No sign illumination shall flash, blink, vary in intensity, or simulate motion. All illumination shall be constant.”
Section 15.5-42: Prohibited Signs
“Animated, flashing, and portable signs are prohibited.”
External References
🗺️ Clarkston Zoning & GIS Map
📘 Clarkston Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal