Are LED Signs Allowed in Kingsland, Camden County, Georgia? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
Are EMC (Electronic Message Center) Signs Allowed in Kingsland, Camden County?
✅ Yes — but only under specific conditions outlined in the City of Kingsland Sign Ordinance (Article XII).
According to the City of Kingsland’s Zoning Ordinance, Article XII, Electronic Message Center (EMC) signs — also known as digital or LED message boards — are permitted in certain commercial and industrial zoning districts. The ordinance establishes strict standards for illumination, placement, and size to maintain public safety and community aesthetics.
🔗 Full Ordinance – City of Kingsland Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & Parcel View – City of Kingsland Zoning & Parcel View
Key Provisions
Zoning Districts:
EMC signs are typically allowed in commercial and industrial districts. They are prohibited in residential areas unless a variance is approved by the Planning Commission.
Size and Height:
Maximum sign area and height depend on the zoning district and sign type (wall, ground, or pole sign). EMC displays must be incorporated within these limits.
Illumination:
All illuminated signs must comply with brightness and glare standards. EMCs must be designed to prevent light spillage, glare, and distraction to motorists or nearby properties.
Setbacks:
Freestanding EMC signs must maintain minimum distances from property lines, rights-of-way, and intersections, as defined by zoning district standards.
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Zoning Districts Allowed | Commercial, Industrial |
| Prohibited Zones | Residential, Agricultural |
| Maximum Sign Area | As specified by zoning district and sign type |
| Maximum Sign Height | As specified by zoning district |
| Illumination Standards | Must meet brightness, shielding, and glare limits |
| Setback Requirements | Must maintain required distances from property lines and ROWs |
| Permit Requirement | Sign permit required before installation |
Zoning District Overview
The City of Kingsland regulates signage through zoning classifications to ensure that signs complement their surroundings. EMCs are intended for business and industrial zones where traffic exposure and visibility are appropriate.
Commercial Zoning Districts
| Requirement | Commercial Districts |
|---|---|
| EMC Allowed | ✅ Yes |
| Maximum Sign Area | Varies by district (see ordinance Table A) |
| Maximum Sign Height | Varies by district (see ordinance Table A) |
| Illumination Standards | Must prevent glare and light spill |
| Setback Requirements | As specified by district or 10 ft minimum from ROW |
Industrial Zoning Districts
| Requirement | Industrial Districts |
|---|---|
| EMC Allowed | ✅ Yes |
| Maximum Sign Area | As permitted under Table B of the ordinance |
| Maximum Sign Height | As per zoning district limits |
| Illumination Standards | Must comply with brightness limitations |
| Setback Requirements | As required by zoning setback table |
Residential & Agricultural Zoning Districts
| Requirement | Residential/Agricultural Districts |
|---|---|
| EMC Allowed | ❌ No (unless variance granted) |
| Maximum Sign Area | ❌ N/A |
| Maximum Sign Height | ❌ N/A |
| Illumination Standards | ❌ N/A |
| Setback Requirements | ❌ N/A |
Permit Filing Requirements
Before installing an Electronic Message Center sign in Kingsland, Camden County, applicants must complete the following:
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Determine Zoning:
Confirm your property’s zoning classification via the Kingsland Planning Department or zoning map. -
Submit a Sign Permit Application:
Obtain and complete the official sign permit form. -
Provide Required Documents:
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Site plan showing sign location, setbacks, and dimensions
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EMC specifications (size, brightness, and display details)
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Zoning district information and proposed sign type
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Planning Department Review:
The Planning & Zoning Department will verify compliance with Article XII – Signs and other applicable city codes. -
Approval and Installation:
Once approved, the permit authorizes installation under the supervision of licensed professionals.
⚡ Note: Additional electrical or building permits may be required.
Additional Regulations for EMC Signs
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Flashing or Animated Displays: Prohibited. EMCs may not display flashing, scrolling, or rapidly changing text or graphics.
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Static Message Duration: Each message must remain static for a minimum period (typically 8 seconds or longer).
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Brightness Control: Must include automatic dimming based on ambient light conditions.
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Maintenance: All signs must be maintained in safe condition with clear and legible displays.
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Prohibited Locations: No sign may be placed within the public right-of-way or in a location obstructing traffic visibility.
Local Project Examples
Businesses in Kingsland’s Highway Commercial and Light Industrial zones have successfully implemented EMC signs while adhering to these regulations. Common installations include gas stations, restaurants, and retail centers seeking dynamic advertising options.
For guidance on similar projects, consult the Kingsland Planning & Zoning Department prior to purchasing or constructing a digital sign.
Full Ordinance Highlights
Article XII – Signs (City of Kingsland Code of Ordinances) covers:
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Purpose and Intent (§120.1)
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Definitions (§120.2)
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Permitting Procedures (§120.3)
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General Sign Standards (§120.4)
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Zoning-Specific Requirements (Tables A–C)
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Illumination and Animated Display Standards (§120.5)
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Enforcement and Penalties (§120.7)
External Reference Links
🗺️ Kingsland Zoning & Parcel View
📘 Kingsland Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal