Are LED Signs Allowed in Coldwater, Branch County, Michigan? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
EMC Sign Allowed?
✅ Yes, Electronic Message Center (EMC) signs are permitted in Coldwater, Michigan, subject to specific conditions outlined in the city's zoning ordinances.
Key Requirements:
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Illumination Control: EMC signs must be equipped with sensors or devices that automatically adjust brightness based on ambient light conditions to maintain a maximum difference of 0.3 foot-candles between the sign's off and solid-message states.
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Message Duration: Each message displayed on an EMC sign must remain static for a minimum of four seconds.
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Sign Area: The automated changeable copy portion of the sign area must not exceed 75% of the total permitted sign area, up to a maximum of 32 square feet (24 sq. ft. in C-1 zoning districts).
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Prohibited Features: Flashing signs, video displays, animation, scrolling text, and other dynamic transitions are prohibited.
🔗 Full Ordinance – City of Coldwater Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & Parcel View – City of Coldwater Zoning & Parcel View
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Answer |
|---|---|
| Zoning districts that allow EMCs | C-1, C-2, C-3, I-1 |
| EMC sign styles allowed | Monument, Freestanding, Wall |
| Off-premise EMCs allowed | ❌No |
| EMCs allowed in public right-of-way | ❌No |
| Minimum setback required | Varies by district; refer to zoning code |
| Use restrictions | Commercial and industrial uses only |
Zoning District Overview
Coldwater's zoning ordinance delineates various districts where signage regulations, including those for EMCs, apply. For detailed information on specific zoning districts and their respective regulations, refer to the city's official zoning map and ordinance documents.
Zoning-Specific Standards
Commercial Districts (C-1, C-2, C-3):
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C-1: Maximum EMC sign area is 24 sq. ft.; automated changeable copy portion must not exceed 75% of total sign area.
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C-2 & C-3: Maximum EMC sign area is 32 sq. ft.; automated changeable copy portion must not exceed 75% of total sign area.
Industrial Districts (I-1):
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EMC signs are permitted with similar area and duration restrictions as commercial districts.
Permit Filing Requirements
To apply for an EMC sign permit in Coldwater:
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Required Forms: Submit a completed Zoning Permit Application and Electrical Permit.
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Permit Fees: Fees vary; contact the Neighborhood Services Department for current rates.
- Application Portal: Coldwater Zoning Permit Application
Local Project Example
In 2017, the Coldwater Elks Lodge received approval from the Downtown Coldwater Historic District Commission to install an EMC freestanding sign. The project adhered to the city's zoning requirements and was subject to review by the Historic District Commission.
Full Ordinance Text
Coldwater Zoning Ordinance – Section 1294.05(h) – Electronic Message Centers
(h) Electronic Message Centers (EMCs).
(1) EMCs are permitted in commercial and industrial districts, subject to the following standards:
a. Message Duration: Each message must remain static for a minimum of four (4) seconds.
b. Sign Area: The automated changeable copy portion shall not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of the total permitted sign area and shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in commercial districts (twenty-four (24) square feet in C-1 districts).
c. Illumination: EMCs must include a light sensor or dimming device so the sign’s brightness automatically adjusts with ambient light. The difference between off and solid-message illumination shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles.
d. Prohibited Features: Flashing, animated, scrolling, or video displays are not allowed.
(2) EMCs may only display messages for on-premises businesses. Off-premises advertising is prohibited.
(3) Signs projecting into public rights-of-way are not permitted.
(4) EMCs must comply with all other applicable sign requirements for the district, including setbacks, height, and total area limits.
External References
🗺️ Coldwater Zoning & Parcel View
📘 Coldwater Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal