Zoning and Signage Rules for North Brunswick Township, NJ

For businesses interested in installing a digital outdoor sign that plays video, here are the relevant rules and restrictions based on local ordinances:

Prohibited Signs

1. Video and Animated Displays: Signs that simulate motion, blink, flash, vibrate, or use sequential lighting are prohibited, except in the TMU Zone for movie theater advertising.
2. Roof Signs: Signs placed on building roofs are not allowed.
3. Off-Premises Advertising: Signs cannot advertise products, services, or businesses not located on the premises.
4. Temporary Mobile Signs: Temporary mobile message signs are prohibited.
5. Interference: Signs cannot interfere with radio/TV reception, traffic visibility, or airflow/light into residential areas.
6. Placement Restrictions: Signs cannot be attached to trees, fences, awnings, or utility poles.

Preview Zoning Map

To identify the zoning of your property and verify permitted sign types, click here to view the zoning map for North Brunswick Township.

Permitted Signs in Commercial and Industrial Districts

Businesses in the C-1, C-2, G-O, ERR, O-R, I-1, and I-2 Districts may install the following types of signs:

1. Freestanding Signs

   • For Smaller Buildings:
     • Buildings with less than 10,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area may have one freestanding sign, up to 40 sq. ft. in size.
   • For Larger Buildings:
     • Buildings with 10,000 to 15,000 sq. ft.: One sign up to 50 sq. ft.
     • Buildings with 15,000 to 30,000 sq. ft.: One sign up to 75 sq. ft.
     • Buildings with 30,000 to 50,000 sq. ft.: One sign up to 100 sq. ft.
     • Buildings over 50,000 sq. ft.: One sign up to 150 sq. ft.
     • Buildings exceeding 100,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area may have two freestanding signs, with a combined size not exceeding 150 sq. ft.

   2. Wall Signs

   • Exterior signs identifying tenants or uses within a building are allowed, provided the total size does not exceed 10% of the building's front facade area.

   3. Directional and Real Estate Signs

   • Directional Signs: Non-illuminated signs for parking areas, entrances, exits, etc., up to 3 sq. ft. in size.
   • Real Estate Signs: Non-illuminated signs announcing the sale, lease, or rental of the property, up to:
     • 20 sq. ft. for commercial/office properties.
     • 50 sq. ft. for industrial properties.

   4. Temporary Signs

   • Signs advertising public functions or fundraising events for charitable, nonprofit, or religious organizations.
   • Combined total area for all temporary signs on one premises must not exceed 32 sq. ft.

   5. Religious, Hospital, and Institutional Signs

   • One freestanding or wall sign, up to 20 sq. ft. in area, is allowed for religious institutions, hospitals, nursing homes, private schools, and service organizations.

   6. Lighting and Placement Requirements

   • Signs must not interfere with traffic visibility or safety.
   • Signs may not encroach on public property or rights-of-way without prior approval.

7. Billboards

• Zoning: Permitted only in the I-1 Industrial Zone.
• Height: Maximum height is 40 feet from the ground to the top of the billboard.
• Distance:
  • Minimum 20 feet from the right-of-way.
  • Minimum 500 feet from residential zones.
  • Minimum 1,500 feet from another billboard.
• Digital Signs:
  • Allowed if the dwell time per message is at least 8 seconds, with transitions completed within 2 seconds.
  • Flashing, blinking, animated displays, and full-motion videos are prohibited.
  • Lighting must not cause glare and is limited to dusk through 11:00 p.m.

Additional Considerations

1. Permit Required: A permit is mandatory for erecting any sign. Designs must comply with zoning and building regulations.
2. Compliance with State Laws: The sign must align with the NJ Roadside Sign Control and Outdoor Advertising Act and other state and federal regulations.
3. Visibility and Safety: The sign must not obstruct driver sightlines or create traffic hazards.

Key Recommendation: Consult the North Brunswick Township municipal office for guidance and permits before proceeding with installation at  (732) 247-0922 ext 450