Signs, Signs Everywhere - But Are They Legal?

With 19 candidates vying for the six city council seats in the upcoming Peachtree Corners elections on March 6, campaign signs are popping up everywhere.

Patch has received a number of emails from people asking what the rules are in posting signs so we did a little research and located the Gwinnett County sign ordinances.

In general, the county's sign ordinance (which the city of Peachtree Corners will operate under for the foreseeable future) regulates the size, quantity and location of signs and also prohibits certain types of signs and advertising such as signs in the street right-of-way, signs on utility poles and signs attached to traffic control devices.

There are several exemptions for political campaign signage:

Exempt Signs (Section 86-111)

1. One (1) sixteen (16) square foot sign per lot OR up to four (4) signs not to exceed four (4) square feet each per lot are allowed.

2.  These Exempt Signs shall not exceed: eight (8) feet above the street grade or three (3) feet above ground level, whichever is greater.

3.  These Exempt Signs must be located out of the right of way and at least ten (10) feet from the curb (or edge of pavement if no curbing exists) of the public street. Please note that signs placed in the street right-of-way and on utility poles are PROHIBITED and are subject to removal without notice to the sign owner.

4.  Exempt Signs cannot be banners (a Temporary Sign Permit is required for banners; see below).

5. Permission of the property owner is required.

6. A Sign Permit for Exempt Signs is NOT required.

Temporary Banner Signs (Section 86-109)

1.  One (1) banner per lot road frontage.

2.  Banners shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area.

3.  Allowed for a maximum of 21 calendar days every three (3) months.

4.  A Temporary Sign Permit is required.

Prohibited Signs (Section 86-108)

The following is a short list of signs or advertising devices that are prohibited (please refer to Section 86-108 of the Sign Ordinance for other prohibited signs or devices):

1.  Signs in the street right-of-way (the right-of-way line is typically eleven (11) feet from the curb, or where no curb exists, eleven (11) feet from the edge of pavement).

2.  Signs on utility poles or other structures in the street right-of-way.

3.  Signs attached to traffic control devices such as “speed limit” or “stop” signs.

4.  Portable, trailer, curb or “A-type” signs.

5.  Streamers.

Please note that signs placed in the street right-of-way and on utility poles are PROHIBITED and are subject to removal without notice to the sign owner.

If you have further questions about the removal or enforcement of the signs, call the Quality of Life Unit at 770-417-3430 ext. 52.

For questions regarding the issuing of sign permits contact the Department of Planning & Development at 678-518-6010 i