Sign Regulations in Hingham, Pennsylvania
Hingham, Pennsylvania has specific sign regulations covering 15 sign types across 5 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include Building Sign - Parallel (As-of-right), Building Sign - Parallel (Building Permit), Building Sign - Parallel (Special Permit). Height restrictions apply. Permits are required for most commercial signs. Use PermitPal to get instant access to the complete regulations.
Data last verified: February 10, 2026
Sign Regulation Overview for Hingham, Pennsylvania
Sample Sign Requirements in Hingham
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Building Sign - Parallel (As-of-right) | 5 ft above ground floor | 1 sq ft | n.a. (building wall sign) |
| Building Sign - Parallel (Building Permit) | 5 ft above ground floor | 4 sq ft | n.a. |
| Building Sign - Parallel (Special Permit) | 5 ft above ground floor | 10 sq ft | n.a. |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
PermitPal Coverage for HinghamFull Coverage
Sign Types Covered
15
- Building Sign - Parallel (As-of-right)
- Building Sign - Parallel (Building Permit)
- Building Sign - Parallel (Special Permit)
- Ground Sign (As-of-right)
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
5
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Official Resources for Hingham
Other Cities in Pennsylvania
Frequently Asked Questions
Sign height limits in Hingham vary by zone and sign type. Wall signs typically range from 25-40 feet, while monument signs are usually limited to 6-10 feet. Use PermitPal to get exact requirements for your property.
To get a sign permit in Hingham, submit an application to the local building or planning department with sign dimensions, location, and design specifications. Our data confirms permits are required for most commercial signs. Processing typically takes 1-4 weeks. PermitPal helps you identify specific requirements and prepare complete applications.
In Hingham, regulated sign types include Building Sign - Parallel (As-of-right), Building Sign - Parallel (Building Permit), Building Sign - Parallel (Special Permit), Ground Sign (As-of-right), and 2 more types. Most commercial signs require permits. Temporary signs and certain small signs may be exempt. Use PermitPal for specific exemptions.
Sign setback requirements in Hingham vary by zone and sign type, typically ranging from 5-15 feet from property lines. Use PermitPal for specific setback requirements at your location.
Digital and LED signs in Hingham are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. Hingham has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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Hingham, Pennsylvania Sign Rules at a Glance
Hingham, Pennsylvania regulates 15 sign types across 5 zoning districts. Directory Ground Sign (Special Permit A1)s in the Industrial District; Industrial Park District; Limited Industrial Park District; Office Park District zoning district are capped at Up to 10 ft tall, Up to 100 sq ft total area, and Up to 15 ft in length wide, with a Not specified; placement must be safe and off the main road/driveway. setback (Sec. Section V-B(3) Footnote 4 (Directory ground signs in OP, IP, LIP, Industrial Districts).). Most commercial signs in Hingham require a permit.
Detailed Sign Ordinance Requirements for Hingham, Pennsylvania
Sign Rules by Zoning District in Hingham (5 zones)
| Zoning District | Sign Types Regulated | Max Height | Max Area | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residence District A; Residence District B; Residence District C; Residence District D; Residence District E; Official and Open Space District | 6 | 6 ft | 20 sq ft | — |
| Business District A | 11 | 12 ft | 45 sq ft | — |
| Business District B; Waterfront Business District; Waterfront Recreation District | 8 | 12 ft | 60 sq ft | — |
| Industrial District; Industrial Park District; Limited Industrial Park District; Office Park District | 7 | 12 ft | Up to 100 sq ft total area | — |
| General Regulations For All Zones | 1 | — | 4 sq ft | — |
Zone-by-Zone Sign Requirements in Hingham(sample of 3 of 5 zones)
Business District A
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Max Width | Setback | Signs Allowed | Location | Permit Required | Premium Details(Illumination, Size Formula, Permit Requirements, Additional Requirements — available with a free PermitPal account) | Ordinance Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building Sign - Parallel (As-of-right) | 5 ft above ground floor | 1 sq ft | — | n.a. | 1; secondary signs per Footnote 4 allowed (including side-street secondary sign where establishment abuts two public streets). | Affixed parallel to building wall. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: In Business District A; Footnotes 1, 5. |
| Building Sign - Projecting Perpendicular (Building Permit) - Option 1 | — | 4 sq ft | — | n.a. | 1 | Projecting perpendicular from building facade; may be over public sidewalk subject to 7 ft clearance. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District A (Bldg.-Projecting; Perpendicular 4 s.f.); Footnotes 1, 5, 7. |
| Business Flag (Projecting) (Building Permit) | — | 15 sq ft | — | n.a. | 1 | Projecting from building facade. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District A (Business flag 15 s.f. under Projecting group); Footnotes 5, 7. |
| Awning Sign (Building Permit) | — | Included within parallel building sign allowances | — | n.a. | 1 | On awning attached to facade projecting as protection against sun or rain. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District A (Awning); Definitions (Awning; Awning Sign Area); Footnote 5. |
| Building Sign - Parallel (Building Permit) | — | 30 sq ft | — | n.a. | 1; secondary signs per Footnote 4. | Affixed parallel to building wall. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District A (Bldg.-Parallel 30 s.f.); Footnotes 1, 5. |
| Ground Sign (As-of-right) | 6 ft | 2 sq ft | — | Minimum setback 10 ft from property lines; corner clearance requirements apply (Footnote 3). | 1 | On lot (ground/freestanding). | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District A (Ground 2 s.f., 6' height, 10' setback); Footnote 5. |
| Ground Sign (Building Permit) | 12 ft | 15 sq ft | — | Minimum setback 10 ft from property lines and 30 ft from any Residential Zoning District boundary (Footnote 3). | 1 | On lot (ground/freestanding). | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District A (Ground 15 s.f., 12' height, 10' setback, 30' from Res. Zone); Footnotes 3, 5. |
| Ground Sign (Special Permit) | 12 ft | 24 sq ft | — | Minimum setback 10 ft from property lines and 30 ft from any Residential Zoning District boundary (Footnote 3). | 1 | On lot (ground/freestanding). | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District A (Ground 24 s.f., 12' height, 10' setback, 30' from Res. Zone); Footnotes 3, 5. |
Business District B; Waterfront Business District; Waterfront Recreation District
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Max Width | Setback | Signs Allowed | Location | Permit Required | Premium Details(Illumination, Size Formula, Permit Requirements, Additional Requirements — available with a free PermitPal account) | Ordinance Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building Sign - Parallel (As-of-right) | 5 ft above ground floor | 1 sq ft | — | n.a. | 1; secondary signs per Footnote 4 allowed. | Affixed parallel to building wall. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: In Business District B, Waterfront Business and Waterfront Recreation Districts; Footnotes 1, 5. |
| Building Sign - Projecting Perpendicular (Building Permit) | — | 4 sq ft | — | n.a. | 1 | Projecting perpendicular from building facade; may be over public sidewalk subject to 7 ft clearance. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District B / Waterfront Business / Waterfront Recreation (Bldg.-Perpendicular 4 s.f.); Footnotes 1, 5, 7. |
| Building Sign - Parallel (Building Permit) | — | 30 sq ft | — | n.a. | 1; secondary signs per Footnote 4. | Affixed parallel to building wall. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District B / Waterfront Business / Waterfront Recreation (Bldg.-Parallel 30 s.f.); Footnotes 1, 5. |
| Building Sign - Projecting Perpendicular (Special Permit) | — | 9 sq ft | — | n.a. | 1 | Projecting perpendicular from building facade. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District B / Waterfront Business / Waterfront Recreation (Bldg.-Perpendicular 9 s.f.); Footnotes 1, 5, 7. |
| Building Sign - Parallel (Special Permit) | — | 60 sq ft | — | n.a. | See Footnote 4. | Affixed parallel to building wall. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District B / Waterfront Business / Waterfront Recreation (Bldg.-Parallel 60 s.f.); Footnotes 1, 5, 4. |
| Ground Sign (As-of-right) | 6 ft | 2 sq ft | — | Minimum setback 10 ft from property lines; corner clearance requirements apply (Footnote 3). | 1 | On lot (ground/freestanding). | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District B / Waterfront Business / Waterfront Recreation (Ground 2 s.f., 6' height, 10' setback); Footnotes 3, 5. |
| Ground Sign (Building Permit) | 12 ft | 15 sq ft | — | Minimum setback 10 ft from property lines and 30 ft from any Residential Zoning District boundary (Footnote 3). | 1 | On lot (ground/freestanding). | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District B / Waterfront Business / Waterfront Recreation (Ground 15 s.f., 12' height, 10' setback, 30' from Res. Zone); Footnotes 3, 5. |
| Ground Sign (Special Permit) | 12 ft | 24 sq ft | — | Minimum setback 10 ft from property lines and 30 ft from any Residential Zoning District boundary (Footnote 3). | 1 | On lot (ground/freestanding). | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Business District B / Waterfront Business / Waterfront Recreation (Ground 24 s.f., 12' height, 10' setback, 30' from Res. Zone); Footnotes 3, 5. |
Industrial District; Industrial Park District; Limited Industrial Park District; Office Park District
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Max Width | Setback | Signs Allowed | Location | Permit Required | Premium Details(Illumination, Size Formula, Permit Requirements, Additional Requirements — available with a free PermitPal account) | Ordinance Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building Sign - Parallel (As-of-right) | 5 ft above ground floor | 1 sq ft | — | n.a. | 1; secondary signs per Footnote 4 allowed. | Affixed parallel to building wall. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: In all Industrial Districts and the Office Park District; Footnotes 1, 5. |
| Building Sign - Parallel (Building Permit) | — | ≤10% of wall area | — | n.a. | 1; secondary signs per Footnote 4. | Affixed parallel to building wall. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Industrial/Office Park (Bldg.-Parallel not exceeding 10% wall area - B); Footnotes 1, 5. |
| Building Sign - Parallel (Special Permit) | — | ≤10% of wall area | — | n.a. | See Footnote 4. | Affixed parallel to building wall. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Industrial/Office Park (Bldg.-Parallel not exceeding 10% wall area - Z); Footnotes 1, 5, 4. |
| Ground Sign (As-of-right) | 6 ft | 2 sq ft | — | Minimum setback 10 ft from property lines; corner clearance requirements apply (Footnote 3). | 1 | On lot (ground/freestanding). | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Industrial/Office Park (Ground 2 s.f., 6' height, 10' setback); Footnotes 3, 5. |
| Ground Sign (Building Permit) | 12 ft | 50 sq ft | — | Minimum setback 10 ft from property lines; corner clearance requirements apply (Footnote 3). | 1 | On lot (ground/freestanding). | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Industrial/Office Park (Ground 50 s.f., 12' height, 10' setback - B); Footnotes 3, 5. |
| Ground Sign (Special Permit) | 12 ft | 50 sq ft per 200 ft of frontage | — | Minimum setback 10 ft from property lines; corner clearance requirements apply (Footnote 3). | Not specified in table. | On lot (ground/freestanding). | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Schedule: Industrial/Office Park (Ground 50 s.f. per unit of 200' of frontage, 12' height, 10' setback - Z); Footnotes 3, 5. |
| Directory Ground Sign (Special Permit A1) | Up to 10 ft | Up to 100 sq ft total area | Up to 15 ft in length | Not specified; placement must be safe and off the main road/driveway. | One or more directory ground signs permitted by Special Permit A1. | Placed in a safe location off the main road or driveway; must have at least two off-street parking spaces for visitors reading the directory. | — | Unlock | Section V-B(3) Footnote 4 (Directory ground signs in OP, IP, LIP, Industrial Districts). |
PermitPal covers all 5 zoning districts in Hingham — full sign requirements for every zone, plus illumination rules, size formulas, and permit requirements for every sign type — with a free account.
See all 5 zones for Hingham — start freeProhibited Signs in Hingham
- Any sign not expressly permitted or exempted under Section V-B, including A-shaped or V-shaped signs, trailer signs, and billboards, is prohibited.
- Flashing, moving, or animated signs, or signs that attract attention by changes in light intensity or repeated motion generated by or internal to the sign, are prohibited.
- Internally illuminated signs are prohibited.
- Non-accessory signs promoting commercial activities are prohibited. Non-accessory signs promoting non-commercial activities are permitted only if they comply with Section V-B.
- No sign may be located at or near an intersection of streets or a street and driveway so as to obstruct clear vision, interfere with or be confused with traffic control devices, or otherwise create a hazard due to intensity or direction of illumination.
- No sign shall be mounted on or form part of a roof, cupola, tower, spire, chimney, enclosure, or any other object or structure located on or above a building roof.
- Parallel wall signs may not extend beyond the face of the wall horizontally or vertically and may not project more than 12 inches from the wall.
- Perpendicular wall signs may not extend above the top of the wall and may not project more than 3 feet from the wall.
- Sign lighting must be exterior, white, steady, stationary, shielded, and directed solely at the sign; backlighting is not permitted.
Exempt Signs in Hingham
- Signs required or authorized by law or by permit of a federal or state government or public authority.
- Signs erected or placed on Town premises under Town By-Law or Building Code or by direction or order of the Town board or committee with lawful jurisdiction.
- Nonconforming signs as defined in the Nonconforming Signs subsection.
- Signs not exceeding 4 square feet that solely direct traffic within a parking area, indicate parking restrictions, or indicate building or unit numbers in a multi-unit complex.
- Memorial building signs or tablets denoting the name of a building and/or date of erection, not exceeding 2 square feet in residential districts or 6 square feet in other districts (subject to Historic Districts Commission regulation in local historic districts).
- Customary signs on gasoline pumps indicating the name and type of gasoline and its price.
- Holiday decorations and lights when in season.
- One unlighted ground sign advertising the sale, rental, or lease of the premises or any part thereof, not exceeding 8 square feet.
- One unlighted ground sign in a residential subdivision of six or more approved lots advertising the sale, rental, or lease of individual lots, not exceeding 40 square feet.
- One unlighted ground sign on each lot advertising the name and address of the owner, architect, engineer, and/or contractor responsible for construction on the premises, not exceeding 12 square feet.
- Paper or cardstock window signs not exceeding 11 inches by 17 inches that advertise a campaign, drive, event, or activity of a civic, philanthropic, educational, or religious organization for noncommercial purposes, provided they are removed within 30 days of initial display.
Sign Plan & Submission Notes for Hingham
- Signs permitted as-of-right (permit code N) do not require a Building Permit.
- Signs that comply with all requirements and are marked with permit code B require a Building Permit issued by the Building Commissioner.
- Signs marked with permit code Z require a Zoning Special Permit from the Board of Appeals; the Board must find the sign in harmony with the purposes of Section V-B and may specify size, height, type, location, and conditions.
- Any sign not meeting the regulations in all respects requires a Variance from the Board of Appeals under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A, Section 10.
- After public hearing and requisite findings, the Board of Appeals may grant a Special Permit to allow more or larger signs up to the maximum total square footage allowed in the Schedule for individual businesses (see footnote 4).
- In Office Park, Industrial Park, Limited Industrial Park, and Industrial Districts (excluding retail groups), directory ground signs listing the business establishments within the development require a Special Permit A1 from the Board of Appeals; they must be placed safely off the main road with at least two off-street parking spaces and may not exceed 10 feet in height, 15 feet in length, or 100 square feet in total area.
- The Select Board may grant permits for temporary signs (one unlighted ground sign up to 4 square feet advertising a public function or activity) for a period not exceeding 30 days; temporary signs do not require Building Permits.
- Permit procedure codes: N = no permit required; B = Building Permit required; Z = Zoning Special Permit required.
Source: other municipal code