Sterling Heights, Michigan: Electronic Message Boards and Freestanding Sign Regulations

1.Introduction to Electronic Message Boards in Sterling Heights

This ordinance establishes guidelines for electronic message boards and freestanding signs in Sterling Heights, Michigan, balancing modern signage technology with public safety and residential aesthetics. Key regulations include:

  • Only static messages and images allowed (no movement, flashing, or scrolling text)
  • Messages can change no more than once every 10 seconds
  • Signs must operate at no more than 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light
  • Light sensors are required to adjust brightness based on ambient conditions
  • Operating hours are limited to 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. or during business hours
  • Signs near residential areas may display messages for non-commercial public events after 10:00 p.m.
  • In case of malfunction, the sign must display a black screen or turn off
  • The electronic message board area must not exceed one-third of the total freestanding sign

    These rules ensure safe, efficient signage while minimizing distractions and protecting neighborhood aesthetics.


    2. Key Regulations for Electronic Message Boards

    2.1 Display Restrictions

    a. Only static messages and images are allowed.
    b. Messages must remain constant in illumination without any movement or visual effects.
    c. No flashing or scrolling text.

    2.2 Message Change Frequency

    a. Messages can change no more than once every 10 seconds.
    b. The transition between messages must be instant without special effects.

    2.3 Light Intensity Limits

    a. Signs must operate at no more than 0.3 foot-candles over ambient light, measured from 150 feet.

    2.4 Sensor and Adjustment Requirements

    a. Signs must include a light sensor that adjusts the brightness based on ambient light conditions.

    2.5 Operating Hours

    a. Signs can only operate between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. or when the business is open.

    b. If near residential properties, non-commercial events open to the public can display messages after 10:00 p.m.

    2.6 Malfunction Protocol

    a. In case of malfunction, the sign must either display a black screen or turn off.

    2.7 Light Pollution Standards

    Best practices for reducing uplight and light trespass must be incorporated.

    2.8 Message Board Size Restrictions

    a. The electronic message board area cannot exceed one-third of the overall freestanding sign.


    3. Emergency Public Service Messaging

    Owners of electronic message boards must allow the city to use the sign to display emergency public service information. These messages are exempt from the usual operating restrictions.


    4. Internal Illumination Restrictions for Residential Properties

    Internally illuminated signs are not permitted on residential properties, except for illuminated house numbers on homes, garages, or mailboxes.


    5. Permanent and Temporary Freestanding Sign Regulations

    5.1 Front Yard and Setback Requirements

    a. Permanent freestanding signs may be placed in the front yard if they are at least 12 feet from the public right-of-way or at least five feet from the curb or pavement of any private street.

    b. Temporary freestanding signs can be placed in the front yard but must be at least five feet from the public right-of-way or private street.

    5.2 Distance from Residential Zoning

    a. Permanent freestanding signs must be located at least 100 feet from any single-family or two-family zoning district, or 50 feet from any off-site sign.

    5.3 Maximum Size Based on Zoning District

    a. In commercial and industrial zoning districts (C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, O-1, O-2, O-3, OR, TRO, PCD, M-1, and M-2), the maximum size of a freestanding sign is one square foot per two linear feet of street frontage.

    b. The maximum size of any freestanding sign is 150 square feet, and electronic message boards may be included within these size limits if they meet all other requirements.

    For more details, please visit the Sterling Heights updated ordinance.

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