Are LED Signs Allowed in Emanuel County, Georgia? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
EMC Sign Allowed?
✅ Yes. Electronic Message Center (EMC) signs are permitted in Emanuel County under the general sign code and permitting framework. The county’s ordinance does not prohibit illuminated or electronic signage, and permits are required for any sign installation.
“A permit is required for the erection, construction, or alteration of any sign within Emanuel County.”
— Emanuel County Code of Ordinances, Chapter 50 – Signs
While the code does not explicitly define “electronic message centers,” digital or illuminated signs are treated as permitted signs, subject to size, placement, and safety requirements.
Because Emanuel County does not maintain zoning districts, EMCs are reviewed through the Building Inspection and Code Enforcement Department, rather than zoning review.
🔗 Full Ordinance – Emanuel County Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & GIS Map – Emanuel County Zoning & GIS Map
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Answer |
|---|---|
| Zoning districts that allow EMCs | All areas (no zoning restrictions) |
| EMC sign styles allowed | Freestanding, Wall, and Monument |
| Off-premise EMCs allowed | Case-by-case (subject to permit approval) |
| EMCs allowed in ROW | ❌ No |
| Minimum setback required | Determined by property line and right-of-way; typically ≥ 10 ft |
| Use restrictions | Commercial, institutional, and public uses typically permitted |
Zoning District Overview
Emanuel County does not have countywide zoning regulations. This means there are no formal zoning districts such as “Commercial,” “Industrial,” or “Residential.”
Instead, sign approvals are handled through the county’s Building Inspection and Code Enforcement Department, which verifies compliance with construction and electrical safety standards.
“Emanuel County does not have its own county-specific zoning regulations, offering greater flexibility in land use for residents and businesses.”
For properties located within incorporated cities (e.g., Swainsboro, Twin City, or Stillmore), city-level zoning and sign codes apply instead of the county ordinance.
Permit Filing Requirements
All EMC signs in Emanuel County require a permit from the Building Inspection & Code Enforcement Department.
Permits ensure compliance with county construction, electrical, and visibility standards.
Permit Process Includes:
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Submitting a Sign Permit Application
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Providing site plan and sign specifications (dimensions, lighting type, mounting)
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Electrical permit (if illuminated or digital)
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Structural drawing or engineering certification
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Payment of applicable county fees
Typical Permit Fees:
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Sign Permit: Varies based on size and type (generally $50 – $150)
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Electrical Inspection Fee (if applicable): $25 – $50
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LED Sign City filing service (optional): $325 flat rate
Local Project Example
Example:
A church along U.S. Highway 80 installed a 4×8 ft LED EMC to display event schedules. The project was permitted through Emanuel County’s Building Inspection Department and met setback and visibility standards under Chapter 50. The sign operates on a static illumination timer with no animation, in compliance with the safety section of the ordinance.
Full Ordinance Text (Verbatim Excerpt)
Emanuel County Code of Ordinances, Chapter 50 – Signs
“It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, construct, alter, or maintain any sign within the unincorporated areas of Emanuel County without first obtaining a permit from the Building Inspection Department.”“All signs must be constructed of durable materials and maintained in good structural condition at all times.”
“No sign shall obstruct visibility or create a hazard for vehicular or pedestrian traffic.”
— Emanuel County Code § 50-1 et seq.
External References
🗺️ Emanuel County Zoning & GIS Map
📘 Emanuel County Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal