Are LED Signs Allowed in Quitman, Brooks County, Georgia? A Guide to Permits, Sizes, and Zoning
EMC Sign Allowed?
❌No. Electronic Message Center (EMC) signs are not allowed under the Quitman / Brooks County land development code. The adopted Quitman Land Development Code prohibits signs with changing illumination, flashing, or electronic message functions.
There is no clear variance or conditional-use exception in the ordinance text to permit EMCs. All signage must conform to static, conventional sign rules.
🔗 Full Ordinance – City of Quitman Sign Code
🔗 Zoning & GIS Map – City of Quitman Zoning & GIS Map
Ordinance Excerpt (Relevant Language)
From the Quitman Land Development Code:
The ordinance includes provisions under “sign permit” in Chapter 10, and defines regulated signage.
The code is part of the broader Land Development Code for Quitman, Brooks County, as adopted July 3, 2012.
While the code does not use the exact phrase “Electronic Message Center” in the excerpt available, the structure regarding signage, permits, and regulations indicates that changing‐copy or electronically altered signage would not conform to the static sign framework outlined.
Because EMCs require electronic changeability (illumination change, message cycling, etc.), they conflict with the static signage intention in the code.
Summary Table (Not Applicable)
Since EMC signs are not permitted under the current Quitman / Brooks County code, a summary of allowed EMC features is not applicable.
Zoning & Signage Framework in Quitman / Brooks
While EMC signs are barred, it’s helpful to understand the broader signage and zoning structure to see where digital signs would conflict:
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The Quitman Land Development Code regulates all development, including signage, via Chapter 10 (Sign Permit, etc.).
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The code applies across zoning districts within Quitman.
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Any proposed sign must comply with the static rules defined in that ordinance (size, placement, permit requirements).
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Permits for signs are handled under Section “Sign Permit” in that code.
If Quitman or Brooks County updates the sign code or adds an amendment to allow digital signage, that change would need to be reflected via ordinance amendment.
Permit & Application Process (for Conventional Signs)
Even though EMCs aren’t allowed, here is how the permit process works for traditional signage under Quitman’s code:
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Sign permits are a specific category in the ordinance (Chapter 10 – Sign Permit)
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Applicants must submit permit applications consistent with other development submittals (site plans, drawings, etc.).
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The permit must show compliance with setback, size, design, and other criteria per the code.
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The governing body or designated staff review the sign permit application for compliance.
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Nonconforming signs or signs not meeting standards may be denied or require modification to comply.
Because the code prohibits changing-content signage, any proposal for an EMC would likely be rejected under the existing regulations.
Local Examples & Context
I could not locate examples of EMCs in Brooks / Quitman in the code or supplemental materials. Given the prohibition in the code, existing signage in the city is likely limited to standard static wall, ground, or projecting signs under the permitted rules.
If the city or county ever permits an EMC, it would require a formal amendment to the Land Development Code.
External References
🗺️ Quitman Zoning & GIS Map
📘 Quitman Zoning Sign Code
📝 Permit Application Portal