Are LED Signs Allowed in Newton, Middlesex County, Massachusetts? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
EMC Sign Allowed?
✅ Yes, but only with restrictions.
Newton’s sign code (Sec. 5.2 Signs) does not specifically reference “electronic message centers” or “digital displays.” However:
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The ordinance prohibits flashing, moving, or animated signs by default.
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Because EMCs involve changing displays, they would not be allowed by right but could still be approved through a variance, conditional use, or special review process.
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The Urban Design Commission (UDC) often reviews unique or nonstandard signage and could recommend conditions such as brightness limits, message dwell times, or size restrictions.
🔗 Full Ordinance – City of Newton Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & GIS Map – City of Newton Zoning & GIS Map
EMC Sign Summary Table
| Feature | Answer |
|---|---|
| Zoning districts that allow EMCs | None by right; case-by-case via variance/permit |
| EMC sign styles allowed | Potentially monument or wall signs with review |
| Off-premise EMCs allowed | ❌ No |
| EMCs in ROW | ❌ Not allowed |
| Minimum setback required | Must follow ground/monument sign setback rules |
| Use restrictions | Subject to Urban Design Commission review & variance |
Zoning / Signage Framework Overview
Newton regulates signage under Section 5.2 – Signs of the zoning code.
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Allowed sign types: wall, ground/monument, projecting/perpendicular, awning, and canopy signs.
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No mention of digital/EMC signs in the ordinance text.
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Illumination is allowed but must be shielded to avoid glare.
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Roof signs are heavily restricted or prohibited.
Because EMCs are not mentioned, they are reviewed outside the standard framework and must meet stricter oversight.
Zoning-Specific Standards
| Requirement | Newton Sec. 5.2 Standards |
|---|---|
| Permitted sign types | Wall, ground, projecting, awning, canopy |
| Projection limits | Perpendicular signs may project but must meet clearance |
| Faces allowed | Projecting signs limited to 2 faces |
| Size limits | Based on façade dimensions; typically one sign per façade |
| Lighting | Must be shielded; cannot blind motorists or neighbors |
| Setbacks | Required for ground/monument signs |
| Roof signs | Restricted/prohibited |
Permit Filing Requirements
To install any sign in Newton:
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Submit a Sign Permit application to the Planning & Development Department.
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Provide drawings, dimensions, materials, and lighting specs.
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If proposing an EMC, request variance or special review.
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Appear before the Urban Design Commission if required.
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Pay permit and review fees.
Local Project Notes
Most Newton sign permits involve traditional wall, projecting, or monument signs. EMCs are rare and would be treated as a special case. Applicants should prepare strong justifications and visual mockups.
Full Ordinance Text
Below is an excerpt from Section 5.2 – Signs (Newton, MA) relevant to standard sign types (not EMC):
“A perpendicular wall sign shall be attached at a right angle to the wall of a building; it shall have no more than 2 faces; and it shall not project …”
Newton’s sign code also sets forth requirements for wall signs, projecting signs, ground signs, roof signs, awning signs, illumination (shielding, intensity), and prohibits obstruction of sight lines.
You can view the full sign ordinance text here: Sec. 5.2 Signs from Newton’s published document.
External Reference Links
🗺️ Newton Zoning & GIS Map
📘 Newton Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal