Are LED Signs Allowed in Green Oak Township, Livingston County, Michigan? A Guide to Permits, Size Limits, and Zoning
The short answer: LED (Electronic Message Center) signs are generally NOT permitted in Green Oak Township, except for limited non-profit uses under strict conditions.
Green Oak Township’s sign ordinance focuses on safety, aesthetics, and reducing distractions, which results in strong restrictions on digital and animated signage.
EMC Sign Allowed?
❌ No — LED / Electronic Message Center (EMC) signs are generally prohibited.
Signs displaying “flashing, animation, scrolling, blinking, or intermittent lights” are not permitted.
“Temporary electronic message (LED) signs” are also prohibited.
Helpful Links
🔗 Green Oak Township Sign Ordinance
🔗 Livingston County GIS / Parcel Map
🔗 Green Oak Township Building Department
(Tip: If information is unclear online, contacting the Township directly is recommended.)
Variance / Appeals Process
A variance may be required if you plan to install an LED sign that does not comply with the ordinance.
To request a variance:
- Submit a detailed sign plan
- Provide dimensions, location, and design specs
- Include engineering documentation (if required)
- Justify why the request meets safety and aesthetic standards
Approval is handled by the Township’s zoning authority.
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Answer |
|---|---|
| LED / EMC signs allowed | ❌ No (generally prohibited) |
| Flashing / scrolling messages | ❌ Not allowed |
| Temporary LED signs | ❌ Prohibited |
| Animated or changing displays | ❌ Not allowed |
| Exceptions | ✅ Limited for schools, churches, nonprofits |
Zoning District Overview
Green Oak Township includes a mix of:
- Residential districts
- Commercial districts (LB, GB, HC, RO)
- Industrial districts (LI, GI)
⚠️ Important: LED sign restrictions apply broadly across districts unless specifically exempted.
Limited Exceptions (Important)
Electronic message signs may be allowed only for certain non-profit uses, including:
- Schools
- Religious facilities
- Museums
- Libraries and similar institutions
Requirements include:
- Maximum 36 sq ft
- Must comply with additional electronic message standards
What Signs ARE Allowed?
Freestanding Signs
- Max 48 sq ft
- Max 8 ft height
- Minimum 15 ft setback
Wall Signs
- Up to 60 sq ft (based on building frontage)
Window Signs
- Up to 25% of window area
(All subject to zoning and site conditions)
Design & Illumination Standards
All permitted signs must:
- Use non-glare lighting
- Avoid traffic hazards or distractions
- Be properly set back from roadways
- Be structurally safe and compliant
Permit Filing Requirements
To apply for a sign permit in Green Oak Township:
Submit:
- Site plan with sign location and setbacks
- Sign design (dimensions, mounting type)
- Electrical details (if illuminated)
- Structural details (if freestanding)
Approval is required before installation.
Full Ordinance Highlights (Verbatim Excerpts)
Prohibited Signs (§38-402):
“Signs which display flashing, animation, scrolling, blinking, or intermittent lights…”
“Temporary electronic message (LED) signs.”
Bottom Line
- ❌ LED message signs are not generally permitted
- ⚠️ Limited exceptions exist for non-profit uses only
- ✅ Standard signage (wall, freestanding, window) is allowed
Need Help Navigating Green Oak Township Permits?
LED Sign City can help you:
- Interpret local sign codes
- Design compliant signage
- Prepare permit applications
- Explore alternatives if LED signs are restricted