Are LED Signs Allowed in Clearwater, Pinellas County, Florida? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
EMC Sign Allowed?
✅ Yes, Electronic Message Center (EMC) signs are permitted in Clearwater, Florida, with specific regulations outlined in the city's sign code. These regulations govern the installation and operation of EMC signs to ensure they align with community standards and safety considerations.
🔗 Full Ordinance – City of Clearwater Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & GIS Map – City of Clearwater Zoning & GIS Map
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Answer |
|---|---|
| Zoning districts that allow EMCs | Commercial, Industrial |
| EMC sign styles allowed | Wall, Monument, Freestanding |
| Off-premise EMCs allowed | ❌No |
| EMCs allowed in the public right-of-way | ❌No |
| Minimum setback required | 5 feet from the public right-of-way |
| Use restrictions | Must comply with sign ordinance and guidelines |
Zoning District Overview
Clearwater's zoning framework includes various districts where signage is regulated. Specific regulations for signage can be found in the city's sign code.
Zoning-Specific Standards
Commercial Zoning Table
| Requirement | Commercial Districts |
|---|---|
| EMC allowed | ✅Yes |
| Permitted sign types | Wall, Monument, Freestanding |
| Maximum number of EMCs | 1 per street frontage |
| Maximum area (wall-mounted) | 25 sq. ft or 3 sq. ft/linear ft |
| Maximum height | 20 ft or roofline |
| Static illumination | ✅Yes |
| Animated signs | ❌No |
| Mechanical motion | ✅Yes |
| Off-premise content allowed | ❌No |
| Right-of-way projection | ❌Not allowed |
| Setback required | 5 ft from public right-of-way |
Industrial Zoning Table
| Requirement | Industrial Districts |
|---|---|
| EMC allowed | ✅Yes |
| Permitted sign types | Wall, Monument, Freestanding |
| Maximum number of EMCs | 1 per street frontage |
| Maximum area (wall-mounted) | 25 sq. ft or 3 sq. ft/linear ft |
| Maximum height | 20 ft or roofline |
| Static illumination | ✅Yes |
| Animated signs | ❌No |
| Mechanical motion | ✅Yes |
| Off-premise content allowed | ❌No |
| Right-of-way projection | ❌Not allowed |
| Setback required | 5 ft from public right-of-way |
Permit Filing Requirements
To apply for an EMC permit in Clearwater:
-
Required forms: Sign Permit Application, Electrical Permit
-
Permit fee: Approximately $150 - $500, depending on size and district
Local Project Example
Clearwater Sign Company installed a 4x8 EMC at a retail store on Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard under C-2 zoning. The sign met all setback and height regulations and was permitted within 14 business days.
Full Ordinance Text
This document outlines the regulations governing the erection, construction, display, and relocation of signs within Clearwater, Florida. It includes provisions for various types of signs, including Electronic Message Centers (EMCs), and specifies requirements such as permit applications, design standards, and compliance with zoning regulations.
Please review the full ordinance to ensure compliance with all applicable requirements before proceeding with the installation or modification of an EMC sign in Clearwater.
External Reference Links
🗺️ Clearwater Zoning & GIS Map
📘 Clearwater Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal