Signage opportunities on a dual-frontage (corner) commercial parcel offer a major visibility advantage, but are also subject to strict zoning, design, and safety regulations. Understanding what types of signage are allowed—and where—helps maximize marketing impact while maintaining compliance. Signage strategy must consider placement, size, height, lighting, and visibility standards for each frontage, often under separate regulations depending on road classification and zoning overlays.
1. Building-Mounted Signage on Each Street Frontage
- Most zoning codes allow one wall sign per public street frontage, enabling signage on two building facades for corner lots.
- The allowable size (typically measured in square feet) is usually proportional to the length of the wall facing the street or overall building frontage.
- Corner tenants often qualify for larger aggregate sign arareashan mid-block locations, especially in retail centers.
- Visibility triangles and architectural guidelines may restrict sign placement near windows, awnings, or rooflines.
- Internally illuminated or backlit channel letters are often permitted, but flashing or animated displays may be restricted.
2. Freestanding or Monument Signs Facing Each Road
- Parcels with two road frontages often qualify for one freestanding sign per frontage, subject to spacing and setback rules.
- Freestanding signs are typically limited in height (e.g., 6–20 feet) and area (e.g., 32–100 square feet), depending on the district and road type.
- Setback requirements (e.g., 5–15 feet from the ROW) apply to protect sightlines and aesthetics.
- If only one monument sign is permitted, developers must choose the primary street for maximum exposure.
- Shared monument signs may be required in multi-tenant developments, with designated panel sizes per tenant.
3. Drive-Thru and Directional Signage (if applicable)
- Sites with drive-thru or vehicle stacking lanes may include menu boards, directional signs, and clearance bars.
- These are regulated separately and must be located away from public ROW and within the drive-thru path.
- Each sign type has its own height and size limitations, often 4–8 feet in height and 16–32 square feet in area.
- Directional signs (e.g., “Exit Only” or “Drive-Thru”) must be non-promotional and low-profile.
4. Window, A-Frame, and Temporary Signage
- Ground-floor commercial spaces may use window signs that cover a percentage (often 20%–30%) of the glass area per frontage.
- A-frame or sandwich boards may be allowed near entrances or sidewalks if permitted by local sign ordinances.
- Temporary signs (for leasing, grand openings, or promotions) are subject to duration and size limits, often requiring short-term permits.
- Dual frontage allows one temporary sign per frontage, but each must meet visibility and pedestrian clearance standards.
5. Signage Limitations from Overlay Districts or Corridor Plans
- Design overlay zones or urban corridor plans may impose stricter controls on sign style, materials, colors, and lighting.
- Pole signs may be prohibited in favor of monument signs in pedestrian-oriented areas.
- Signage height may be reduced near residentially zoned parcels or schools.
- Historic districts may require design review board approval before sign installation.
- Electronic or digital message signs are often restricted by brightness, duration of display, and location.
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