Are LED Signs Allowed in Franklin County, Georgia? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
EMC Sign Allowed?
❌ No. EMC signs are explicitly prohibited within the City of Canon.
The Canon Unified Development Code defines prohibited signs in a way that comprehensively bans EMCs and similar digital displays.
Official Ordinance Language: "The following signs are prohibited in all zoning districts: ... Signs with moving parts, flashing lights, or other attention-getting devices; ... Signs with electronic changing messages."
There is no variance process described in the sign ordinance that would allow for a prohibited sign type like an EMC to be approved.
🔗 Full Ordinance – Franklin County Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & GIS Map – Franklin County Zoning & GIS Map
EMC Sign Summary Table
Since EMC signs are prohibited, a summary of allowances and restrictions is not applicable.
Zoning District Overview
While the prohibition applies to all zoning districts, Canon's code organizes its regulations into districts such as R-1 (Single-Family Residential), R-2 (Multi-Family Residential), C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial), and I-1 (Light Industrial). The sign regulations, including the prohibition on EMCs, are consistent across all of them.
For official zoning designations, you should contact the City of Canon directly, as a dedicated online GIS zoning map may not be available.
Zoning-Specific Standards
❌ Not applicable, as EMC signs are prohibited in all zoning districts.
Permit Filing Requirements
Since EMC signs are prohibited, no permit for them will be issued. Permits are required for other, allowable sign types (e.g., wall signs, monument signs). For information on permits for non-EMC signs, contact the city.
Full Ordinance Text (Verbatim)
The relevant sections from the Canon Unified Development Code, Article 12 - Sign Regulations, are copied below.
Section 12.4 - Prohibited Signs:
"(B) The following signs are prohibited in all zoning districts:
Signs with moving parts, flashing lights, or other attention-getting devices;
Signs with electronic changing messages;
Roof signs;
Inflatable signs and tethered balloons;
Off-premise signs, except as otherwise provided;
Signs which imitate or resemble any official traffic control sign or signal;
Signs which are attached to, or painted on, trees, utility poles, street signs, hydrants, bridges, or benches;
Signs which are placed on a public right-of-way or which project over a public right-of-way, except as otherwise provided."
Section 12.1 - Definitions:
While the code does not have a specific definition for "Electronic Message Center," the terms "Sign, Electronic Changing Message" and the prohibition of "flashing lights" and "attention-getting devices" in 12.4(B) clearly encompass and prohibit EMC signs.
External References
🗺️ Franklin Zoning & GIS Map
📘 Franklin Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal