Sign Regulations in Jonesborough, Tennessee
Jonesborough, Tennessee has specific sign regulations covering 35 sign types across 5 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include All Signs - General Location/Setback, Illuminated Signs - General, Temporary / Portable Sign (General Commercial Use). Height restrictions apply. Permits are required for most commercial signs. Use PermitPal to get instant access to the complete regulations.
Data last verified: January 15, 2026
Sign Regulation Overview for Jonesborough, Tennessee
Sample Sign Requirements in Jonesborough
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Signs - General Location/Setback | — | — | Permanent signs: minimum 7.5' from street/right-of-way unless otherwise specified. Temporary signs: minimum 10' from street/right-of-way. Entrance/freestanding signs outside 35' x 35' sight triangle at intersections. |
| Temporary / Portable Sign (General Commercial Use) | — | 9 sq ft per side generally; up to 32 sq ft for grand opening/going out of business specials; real estate / political / nonprofit separate limits by zone. | Min 10' from edge of street/right-of-way; not on public sidewalk/ROW except in B-2 or permitted special events. |
| Portable A-board / Sandwich Board Sign | — | Subject to 9 sq ft per side limit unless otherwise allowed by specific subsection; no explicit different figure given. | Cannot be in public ROW except in B-2 or as specially permitted; must avoid blocking sidewalks/drive areas; general 10' setback from edge of street/right-of-way applies as a temporary sign. |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
PermitPal Coverage for JonesboroughFull Coverage
Sign Types Covered
35
- All Signs - General Location/Setback
- Illuminated Signs - General
- Temporary / Portable Sign (General Commercial Use)
- Portable A-board / Sandwich Board Sign
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
5
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Official Resources for Jonesborough
Other Cities in Tennessee
Frequently Asked Questions
Sign height limits in Jonesborough 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 Jonesborough, 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 Jonesborough, regulated sign types include All Signs - General Location/Setback, Illuminated Signs - General, Temporary / Portable Sign (General Commercial Use), Portable A-board / Sandwich Board Sign, 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 Jonesborough 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 Jonesborough are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. Jonesborough has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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Jonesborough, Tennessee Sign Rules at a Glance
Jonesborough, Tennessee regulates 35 sign types across 5 zoning districts. Residential Subdivision Entry Signs in the Residence - R-1 District - low density residential (R-1); Residence - R-1A District - low density residential (R-1A); Residence - R-1B District - low density residential (R-1B); Residence - R-2 District - medium density residential (R-2); Residence - R-3 District - high density residential (R-3); Residence - R-4 District - transitional residential (R-4); Residential - PRD District - planned residential development (PRD); Residential districts zoning district are capped at 8 ft overall including supports (as a freestanding ground-mounted sign in residential districts). tall and 32 sq ft by right; larger sign area requires variance approval., with a Beyond 7.5' from street/right-of-way; outside sight distance triangle at intersections. setback (Sec. §11-1214(1)(b),(d)-(f); §11-1205(4)). Most commercial signs in Jonesborough require a permit.
Detailed Sign Ordinance Requirements for Jonesborough, Tennessee
Sign Rules by Zoning District in Jonesborough (5 zones)
| Zoning District | Sign Types Regulated | Max Height | Max Area | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Regulations For All Zones | 11 | — | 25 sq ft per sign, except larger where sign represents state/federal funding agencies with required size/wording as funding condition. | — |
| Residence - R-1 District - low density residential (R-1); Residence - R-1A District - low density residential (R-1A); Residence - R-1B District - low density residential (R-1B); Residence - R-2 District - medium density residential (R-2); Residence - R-3 District - high density residential (R-3); Residence - R-4 District - transitional residential (R-4); Residential - PRD District - planned residential development (PRD); Residential districts | 10 | 8 ft overall including supports (as a freestanding ground-mounted sign in residential districts). | 32 sq ft by right; larger sign area requires variance approval. | — |
| Business - B-1 District - Neighborhood business (B-1); Business - B-2 District - central business (B-2); Business - B-3 District - arterial business (B-3); Business - B-4 District - intermediate business (B-4); Business - B-5 District - heritage business (B-5); Business - B-6 District - urban commercial corridor (B-6); Commercial districts; RLS (Retail Liquor Store Overlay Zone); DC (Distilling Company) Overlay Zone; TF-1 - (Treatment Facility) Overlay Zone | 8 | On single-story building: top of sign ≤15' and not above cornice, parapet, or mansard wall. On multi-story building: cannot extend above lower sill line of 2nd-floor windows. Clearance: ≥8' above walkway; ≥15' above driveway or alley. | 100 sq ft of sign area by right. Multi-tenant buildings with 7+ tenants may apply for an additional 11 sq ft per tenant above 6, up to 144 sq ft total. | — |
| Historic - H-1 District - historic district (H-1); Historic - H-2 District - historic overlay district (H-2); Historic districts | 3 | — | Subject to 9 sq ft per side general temporary sign limit. | — |
| Industrial - M-1 District - manufacturing and warehouse (M-1); Industrial - M-2 District - industrial (M-2); Manufacturing district | 3 | 14 ft including supports | 300 sq ft total per establishment | — |
Zone-by-Zone Sign Requirements in Jonesborough(sample of 3 of 5 zones)
General Regulations For All Zones
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Signs - General Location/Setback | — | — | — | Permanent signs: minimum 7.5' from street/right-of-way unless otherwise specified. Temporary signs: minimum 10' from street/right-of-way. Entrance/freestanding signs outside 35' x 35' sight triangle at intersections. | — | Commercial signs must be located on the property they are intended to promote; generally no commercial signs in public right-of-way except as permitted by State of Tennessee or Jonesborough Planning Commission. All permanent signs must be located outside required sight distance triangles at intersections. | — | Unlock | §11-1208; §11-1210; §11-1214 intro; §11-1205(2); §11-1208(3)-(5) |
| Temporary / Portable Sign (General Commercial Use) | — | 9 sq ft per side generally; up to 32 sq ft for grand opening/going out of business specials; real estate / political / nonprofit separate limits by zone. | — | Min 10' from edge of street/right-of-way; not on public sidewalk/ROW except in B-2 or permitted special events. | 1 per business at a time; 2 per lot at a time for multi-tenant locations | On same premises/lot as business activity. Not on public sidewalks or right-of-way except in B-2 zone or when authorized in a special event permit. Must be at least 10' from public right-of-way. Sandwich boards/A‑boards: on-premises or in B-2 or other zone within historic district with heritage occupation; immediately in front of business promoted. | — | Unlock | §11-1206(3)(f)(i)-(xi) |
| Portable A-board / Sandwich Board Sign | — | Subject to 9 sq ft per side limit unless otherwise allowed by specific subsection; no explicit different figure given. | — | Cannot be in public ROW except in B-2 or as specially permitted; must avoid blocking sidewalks/drive areas; general 10' setback from edge of street/right-of-way applies as a temporary sign. | Counts toward 1 temporary sign per business and 2 per lot limits | On-premises OR in B-2 zone OR other zone within historic district where a heritage occupation is approved. Must be immediately in front of the business being promoted. Must not block pedestrian or vehicular traffic or create safety hazard. | — | Unlock | §11-1206(3)(f)(vii)-(viii) |
| Real Estate Sign - Temporary Freestanding | — | Residential zones except R-4 and including B-2: 6 sq ft per face; R-4: 32 sq ft per face; all other business and manufacturing zones: 32 sq ft per face. | — | Must be on private property and outside any area creating sight hazard to motorists; general 10' temporary sign setback applies. | 1 per lot road frontage; parcels >3 acres may have up to 3 total (1 + 2 additional). | On private property of parcel offered for sale/lease/rent, adjacent to street bounding development. Not in public right-of-way. Off-site directional/pointer real estate signs allowed off property but not in public ROW; must be in reasonable numbers. | — | Unlock | §11-1206(3)(d)(i)-(vi) |
| Political Sign - Temporary | — | Residential zones except R-4 and including B-2: max 6 sq ft. R-4 and all other non-residential zones: max 32 sq ft. | — | Not in public ROW; general temporary sign 10' setback from edge of street/right-of-way applies. | — | On any private lot, but not within public right-of-way. | — | Unlock | §11-1206(3)(b) |
| Non-Profit Temporary Sign | — | 6 sq ft | — | At least 10' from street/right-of-way as temporary sign; not in public ROW. | — | Anywhere lawful on private property subject to general temporary sign setbacks. | — | Unlock | §11-1206(3)(c) |
| Construction Sign - Temporary | — | 25 sq ft per sign, except larger where sign represents state/federal funding agencies with required size/wording as funding condition. | — | General temporary sign 10' setback and sight distance rules apply; not in ROW. | — | Confined to site of construction. | — | Unlock | §11-1206(3)(e) |
| Exempt Government / Safety / Directional / Window / Small Informational Signs | — | Small directional/convenience: 4 sq ft. Government-required signs: 10 sq ft total surface area per sign. Window signs: temporary up to 25% of window/door area; permanent up to 10% of window/door area. Warning/trespassing/private drive/etc. freestanding at eye level: 4 sq ft max. Area signs in historic business directional system: 3 sq ft; business-specific blades: 2 sq ft. | — | Not specified beyond not being a hazard; governmental signs may be in ROW as needed. | — | Generally on-premises or as required by law; governmental signs may be in ROW. | — | Unlock | §11-1206(2)(a)-(j); §11-1214(3)(k) |
Residence - R-1 District - low density residential (R-1); Residence - R-1A District - low density residential (R-1A); Residence - R-1B District - low density residential (R-1B); Residence - R-2 District - medium density residential (R-2); Residence - R-3 District - high density residential (R-3); Residence - R-4 District - transitional residential (R-4); Residential - PRD District - planned residential development (PRD); Residential districts
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential Identification Sign - Dwelling Unit | — | 4 sq ft | — | Must be beyond 7.5' from edge of street or public right-of-way. | 1 per dwelling unit | On premises of dwelling unit, beyond 7.5' setback from street/right-of-way. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(1)(a),(d),(f) |
| Residential Subdivision Entry Sign | 8 ft overall including supports (as a freestanding ground-mounted sign in residential districts). | 32 sq ft by right; larger sign area requires variance approval. | — | Beyond 7.5' from street/right-of-way; outside sight distance triangle at intersections. | At least 1 permitted at major entrance; ordinance does not authorize multiple per entrance by right. | At major entrance to single-family development; on premises beyond 7.5' setback. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(1)(b),(d)-(f); §11-1205(4) |
| Residential Subdivision Development Sign - Non-permanent | — | 32 sq ft per sign (on-site and one off-site). | — | Beyond 7.5' from street/right-of-way as a permanent-type structure, or at least 10' if treated as temporary; must avoid sight distance triangle issues. | 1 on-site per subdivision development; 1 additional off-site sign may be permitted. | On-site, adjacent to any street bounding development; one off-site sign allowed subject to §11-1212 conditions. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(1)(c); §11-1212 |
| Residential Freestanding Sign - General | 8 ft overall including supporting members | — | — | Min 7.5' from edge of street or public right-of-way; outside sight triangles. | — | Anywhere on premises beyond 7.5' setback. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(1)(d)-(f) |
| Multi-Family Development Entry Sign - Per Street Frontage | 8 ft (as a residential freestanding ground-mounted sign, unless varied) | 32 sq ft per street frontage | — | At least 7.5' from street/right-of-way; outside sight triangles. | 1 per street frontage | At each street frontage of multi-family development. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(1)(g); §11-1205(4) |
| Public / Institutional Sign in Residential District (Public-owned building, public/private school, church) | 8 ft (for freestanding ground-mounted signs in residential areas, absent further variance or specific R-4 conditions). | 32 sq ft per sign | — | Beyond 7.5' from street/right-of-way; outside sight distance triangle. | 1 on-premises sign per public-owned building/use, school, or church; possible additional off-site directional signs with approvals | On premises of public-owned building/use, public/private school, or church located in a residential zone; may also have off-site directional signs if approved (see additional requirements). | — | Unlock | §11-1214(1)(h); Ord. 2024-02 (amending §11-1207(7)(a)) |
| R-4 District Freestanding Sign - Principal Building | To be determined by Planning Commission based on criteria (topography, landscaping, entrance location, distance from property line/arterial road). | 32 sq ft per face | — | Must respect general 7.5' setback and sight distance triangle; additional site-specific placement conditions may be imposed by Planning Commission. | 1 freestanding monument/ground-mounted sign per principal building in R-4 | On premises of principal building in R-4 district. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(2) |
| Residential Off-Premises Directional Sign (Public Buildings/Schools/Churches/Subdivisions) | — | Up to 32 sq ft for subdivision off-site development sign; up to 9 sq ft per establishment or 25 sq ft for multiple establishments for off-premises directional signs generally. | — | Must meet 5'–7.5'+ setbacks as applicable and not create traffic hazards; outside sight distance triangles. | 1 sign per off-site location, with up to 2 faces; subdivision allowed 1 off-site development sign by §11-1214(1)(c). | Off-site parcel not containing advertised property/use, along arterial or other routes where directional guidance is justified. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(1)(c),(h); §11-1212(1)-(2) |
Business - B-1 District - Neighborhood business (B-1); Business - B-2 District - central business (B-2); Business - B-3 District - arterial business (B-3); Business - B-4 District - intermediate business (B-4); Business - B-5 District - heritage business (B-5); Business - B-6 District - urban commercial corridor (B-6); Commercial districts; RLS (Retail Liquor Store Overlay Zone); DC (Distilling Company) Overlay Zone; TF-1 - (Treatment Facility) Overlay Zone
| 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 Mounted Sign - Option 1 (Sign Area Plan) | Sign area cannot extend more than 4' above lowest point of roof; on parapets/mansards where allowed under manufacturing rules different, but commercial rule is 4'. | No fixed square-foot cap; sign area determined by Planning Commission based on design criteria rather than formula. | — | — | Number and location of sign areas established by Planning Commission as part of Option 1 plan | On any exterior wall(s) of building; may be on any building side. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(3)(a) |
| Building Mounted Sign - Option 2 (By Frontage) | No building mounted sign may extend more than 4' above lowest point of roof. | — | — | — | 1 building-mounted sign per street frontage per tenant (count rule), area capped by formula; additional signage on other walls per formula for walls visible from street. | On any exterior building wall; may project up to 1' from wall. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(3)(b)-(d),(i) |
| Marquee Sign - Vertical Face | Sign height (on vertical marquee face) not to exceed 7'; bottom of marquee sign ≥ 9' above walkway/grade. | No explicit area; but max height dimension 7' for sign on vertical face. | — | — | — | On marquee or permanent roof structure projecting beyond building face, not supported from ground. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(3)(e) |
| Freestanding Sign - Commercial (Monument / Ground-Mounted) | 14 ft above ground level including supports. | 100 sq ft of sign area by right. Multi-tenant buildings with 7+ tenants may apply for an additional 11 sq ft per tenant above 6, up to 144 sq ft total. | — | Minimum 7.5' from all property lines; outside sight distance triangles. For manufacturing freestanding signs other setbacks may apply; for commercial this section governs. | 1 freestanding sign per street frontage per building (see §11-1214(3)(i)); BZA may grant additional signs based on criteria (topography, landscaping, ingress/egress, setback, site layout). | On the same premises as the commercial use, near street frontage. In historic overlay zones, must comply with Historic Zoning Commission advertising standards instead of this standard to the extent of any conflict. | — | Unlock | §11-1208(2); §11-1214(3)(f); §11-1205(4) |
| Projecting Sign - Commercial (In Lieu of Freestanding) | On single-story building: top of sign ≤15' and not above cornice, parapet, or mansard wall. On multi-story building: cannot extend above lower sill line of 2nd-floor windows. Clearance: ≥8' above walkway; ≥15' above driveway or alley. | Max 10 sq ft per business; where multiple businesses share one grouping, total of all signs in that grouping ≤10 sq ft. | — | Not applicable as they are building-mounted, but clearance minimums over walkways/driveways apply. | 1 projecting sign per ground-floor business or per entrance serving upper-level businesses | Attached approximately perpendicular to building wall in commercial districts; may be at business entrance. | — | Unlock | §11-1214(3)(g) |
| Business Directional Sign - Historic District Off-Main/Boone Businesses | — | Top area sign: ≤3 sq ft. Individual business blades: ≤2 sq ft each. | — | Must be placed so as not to create traffic hazards; specific setback not stated, but general sign location/sight distance rules apply. | One pole per intersection per direction; one blade per business; one area sign per pole. | Within historic district at intersections off Boone Street and Main Street; on dedicated poles used solely for such directional signs and public facility signs (parking, restrooms). | — | Unlock | §11-1214(3)(k) |
| Electronic Variable Message Sign - Commercial (Animated Sign) | — | — | — | Same as underlying freestanding or building sign: at least 7.5' from property lines; 200' spacing from other electronic message signs. | No special count beyond general limit of one freestanding sign per street frontage per building; each electronic sign counts as that freestanding or building sign. | Only on property in B-3 or B-6 zones, or on properties associated with government buildings, general-education schools, or churches in R-1 or other zones allowing those uses (see separate R‑1 record). | — | Unlock | §11-1207(7)(a)-(j) as amended by Ord. 2024-02; §11-1208(2); §11-1213(3)(c) |
| Commercial Sign - On-premises Limitation | — | — | — | — | — | On same property as business or service being advertised (on-premises). | — | Unlock | §11-1214(3)(h); §11-1212; §11-1207(13)-(14),(23) |
PermitPal covers all 5 zoning districts in Jonesborough — 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 Jonesborough — start freeProhibited Signs in Jonesborough
- No sign, except those listed in § 11-1206, may be painted, constructed, erected, remodeled, relocated, or expanded without a sign permit (§ 11-1205(1), 11-1215(2), 11-1207(20)).
- It is unlawful to substantially modify a sign that required a permit without prior approval of the building inspector (§ 11-1205(1)).
- No sign shall violate any provision of any law or regulation of the State of Tennessee or United States relative to outdoor advertising (§ 11-1207(3)).
- No sign shall violate any provision of the Southern (Standard) Building Code unless specifically authorized otherwise (§ 11-1205(2), § 11-1207(4), § 11-1210).
- Signs must comply with all other local ordinances, codes and regulations; sign standards do not relieve owners/tenants from those obligations (§ 11-1203, § 11-1205(2), § 11-1209(5)).
- Any sign that is unlawfully installed, erected or maintained in violation of the Southern Standard Building Code or this chapter must be brought into conformity or removed upon notice; failure allows the town to remove it at the owner’s expense (§ 11-1211(3)).
- Any sign deemed an immediate threat to public safety may be removed immediately and without written notice by the building inspector or public safety director (§ 11-1211(4)).
- Abandoned or dilapidated signs are prohibited; signs advertising a business no longer conducted for one year or with no message for 90 days must be removed (§ 11-1204(1), § 11-1207(17), § 11-1211(5), § 11-1213(9)).
- Nonconforming signs may not be enlarged, expanded, extended, structurally altered, moved, or reconstructed after certain levels of damage except to bring them into conformity or as specifically allowed by the planning commission/Board of Zoning Appeals (§ 11-1213(1)–(8)).
- Any sign deemed illegal at the time of adoption of this chapter is not considered legally nonconforming (§ 11-1213(11)).
- Existing signage that was in violation of the previous sign ordinance remains in violation and has no implied right to exist from its continued presence (§ 11-1220).
- Any sign erected, altered, or relocated without a required permit, or whose permit has been revoked, is prohibited (§ 11-1207(20), § 11-1215(2)).
- Any sign that misrepresents the business use or activities on the property is prohibited (§ 11-1207(16)).
- Any sign that exhibits statements, words, or pictures of a racial, offensive, or obscene nature is prohibited (§ 11-1207(15)).
- Any commercial sign located in a residential district is prohibited unless otherwise provided in the chapter (§ 11-1207(19)).
- Any sign advertising an activity, business, product, or service not conducted on the premises is prohibited, except as specifically permitted (billboards, allowed off‑premises/directional signs, etc.) (§ 11-1207(13), (23), § 11-1212).
- Any commercial sign supporting any business or use not within the Town of Jonesborough is prohibited except as may be permitted through billboards (§ 11-1207(14)).
- Off‑premises advertising signs (billboards/poster panels) are prohibited in all zones except where specifically allowed as directional/off‑premises signs meeting criteria in § 11-1212 (§ 11-1212 chapeau, § 11-1207(13)).
- Any sign that has been ordered altered or removed by the building inspector and not brought into compliance or removed within the specified period is subject to removal at the owner’s expense (§ 11-1211(3)).
- Any sign in a historic district that is not approved under the Historic Zoning Commission standards is effectively prohibited (§ 11-1205(1), § 11-1214(4), § 11-1223).
- Any lighting arrangement by exposed tubing or strings of lights outlining any portion of a building or structure or affixed to any ornamental feature is prohibited, including string lights on the exterior of businesses or directly behind display windows, with limited holiday exceptions only in H‑1 and H‑2 and subject to brightness and non‑flashing limits (§ 11-1207(1) as amended by Ord. 2025‑11).
- Any portable sign is prohibited except as provided for under the specific temporary/portable sign exemptions and standards (§ 11-1207(2) referencing § 11-1206(3)(f)).
- Any sign so located as to obscure all or any portion of a governmental sign or traffic signal is prohibited (§ 11-1207(5)).
- Any sign that by reason of location, position, size, shape or color may obstruct, impair, obscure, interfere with, be confused with, mislead, or confuse traffic and is deemed a safety hazard is prohibited (§ 11-1207(11)).
- No sign may use the words “stop,” “slow,” “caution,” “yield,” “danger,” “warning,” or “go” when it may be confused with a traffic control sign (§ 11-1207(11), final paragraph).
- Any sign that obstructs any window, door, fire escape, stairway, ladder, opening or access intended for light, air, ingress or egress is prohibited (§ 11-1207(8)).
- Any sign attached to a tree is prohibited (§ 11-1207(9)).
- Any sign attached to a utility pole is prohibited except utility warning announcements, certain traffic/safety‑related signs deemed necessary by the public safety director, and banners/flags, etc. specifically approved on street lamps by the board of mayor and aldermen or its designee (§ 11-1207(10)).
- Inflatable signs (helium or other gas‑filled signs capable of floating) are prohibited (§ 11-1207(12)).
- Roof signs, or signs extending beyond the main roof line, are prohibited unless specifically approved by the Jonesborough Planning Commission, and by the Historic Zoning Commission if in the historic zone (§ 11-1207(18)).
- Signs made structurally sound by guy wires or unsightly bracing are prohibited (§ 11-1207(21)).
- Signs containing reflective material are prohibited except as approved under § 11-1206 (§ 11-1207(22)).
- Any sign that has sign copy misrepresenting the business use or activities on the property is prohibited (§ 11-1207(16)).
- Electronic/animated/variable message signs that flash, strobe, blink, run continuous moving messages, or use animation or dissolving/traveling/chasing text are prohibited except where they meet detailed conditions in § 11-1207(7), including location limits, message duration, no continuous movement, brightness limits, and other operational constraints (§ 11-1207(6)–(7), § 11-1209(2)).
- Beacon lights, blinking, flashing, strobe, fluttering lights or other illuminating devices with changing light intensity or color on signs are prohibited (§ 11-1209(2)).
- Colored lights, especially red, yellow and green, may not be used in any location or manner that could be confused with a traffic signal (§ 11-1209(3)).
- Neither direct nor reflected light from sign lighting may create a traffic hazard to motorists (§ 11-1209(4)).
- Illuminated signs must comply with the Jonesborough Lighting Ordinance, including not causing disability or discomfort glare (§ 11-1207(7)(h), § 11-1209(5)).
- All signs with electrical wiring must have UL (or equivalent) listing and an outside disconnect; non‑compliant electrical signs are prohibited (§ 11-1209(6)).
- Commercial signs must be located on the property they are intended to promote and generally may not be placed on public rights‑of‑way or medians except as expressly permitted by the State of Tennessee, the Planning Commission, or for town/parks/construction signage approved by the board (§ 11-1208 chapeau and (1), (4)).
- No political, real estate, civic, or other non‑public exempt signage shall be posted on medians, islands, or along public right‑of‑way; unapproved signs in public right‑of‑way will be removed by the town (§ 11-1208(1), § 11-1206(3)(b), (d)(ii)).
- No permanent sign may be within the sight distance triangle at intersections unless specifically approved by appropriate transportation agencies/Planning Commission (§ 11-1208(3)).
- No sign and/or sign structure may be erected on property without the express permission of the property owner or his agent; failure to show permission on request can prevent or invalidate placement (§ 11-1208(5)).
- Any person violating any provision of the sign chapter is subject to misdemeanor penalties, including fines for each day the violation continues (§ 11-1222).
Exempt Signs in Jonesborough
- The following operations do not create a new sign and do not require a sign permit: (a) Changing the advertised copy or message on an approved sign specifically designed for replaceable copy; (b) Painting, cleaning, and other normal maintenance and repair of a conforming sign unless a structural change is made (§ 11-1206(1)).
- Signs of any constituted governmental body such as traffic signs and signals, legal notices, railroad crossing signs, danger signs, and other temporary, emergency, and non‑advertising signs are exempt from the requirements of the chapter, including permits (§ 11-1206(2)(a)).
- Memorial tablets or signs, historic markers, corner stones, or a building name and date of erection when constructed of incombustible material are exempt (§ 11-1206(2)(b)).
- Signs required to be maintained by law (governmental order, rule, or regulation) with a total surface area not exceeding ten (10) square feet are exempt (§ 11-1206(2)(c)).
- Flags, emblems, or insignias of any constituted governmental body, religious groups, civic organizations and service clubs are exempt (§ 11-1206(2)(d)).
- Small signs displayed for the direction or convenience of the public (e.g., restrooms, public telephones, freight entrances, parking or the like) not exceeding four (4) square feet are exempt; horizontal directional signs flush with paved areas are exempt from these standards (§ 11-1206(2)(e)).
- Seasonal displays and decorations not advertising a product, services, or entertainment are exempt (§ 11-1206(2)(f)).
- Freestanding signs or signs attached to fences at approximate eye level not larger than four (4) square feet warning the public against hunting, fishing, trespassing, dangerous animals, swimming, or designating private property, private drive, ATM, etc. are exempt (§ 11-1206(2)(g)).
- Information or directional signs erected by a public agency to give directions and distances to commercial facilities or points of interest for the convenience of the traveling public (not giving direction to any specific business establishment) are exempt (§ 11-1206(2)(h)).
- Temporary window signs, internally mounted, that do not exceed 25% of the area of the window or glass door and conform to all safety, building, and electrical codes are exempt, except when a change triggers § 11-1205(3) (replacement sign/structural change) (§ 11-1206(2)(i), § 11-1205(3)).
- Permanent window signs, internally mounted, that do not exceed 10% of the area of the window or glass door and conform to safety, building, and electrical codes are exempt from permitting, except when a change triggers § 11-1205(3); in the historic district they are still subject to Historic Zoning Commission approval (§ 11-1206(2)(j)).
- Official public notices or advertisements required by direction of a public or court officer or trustees under legal instruments are temporary sign exemptions, provided they are removed not later than 10 days after the required display period (§ 11-1206(3)(a)).
- Political signs meeting size limits by zone, not located within public rights‑of‑way, containing no commercial message, and removed within 7 days after election results, are exempt from permits (§ 11-1206(3)(b)).
- Non‑profit temporary signs (up to 6 sq ft) announcing campaigns, drives, or events of civic, philanthropic, educational, or religious organizations, maintained for no more than one month and removed within 7 days after the event/campaign, are exempt from permits (§ 11-1206(3)(c)).
- Temporary freestanding real estate signs meeting size, location (on private property, not in right‑of‑way, no sight hazard), timing (removed within 7 days of sale/lease), number, and spacing limits are exempt from permits (§ 11-1206(3)(d)(i)–(iii), (v)).
- Directional or pointer real estate signs used off‑site from the property, not located in public rights‑of‑way, used in reasonable numbers and removed on the same schedule as on‑site real estate signs, are exempt from permits (§ 11-1206(3)(d)(iv)).
- Construction signs identifying project participants and project character, confined to the construction site, limited to 25 sq ft per sign, and removed within 14 days after completion are exempt; construction signs required by state/federal funding agencies with prescribed size/wording are exempt from these construction sign limits (§ 11-1206(3)(e)).
- Temporary or portable business signs are exempt from permitting if all of the following conditions are met: (i) advertise specials/new products/temporary business conditions (not just business name/logo), posted no more than 60 days; (ii) only one sign per business and no more than two per lot for multi‑tenant sites; (iii) size limits (generally max 9 sq ft per side, with specified exceptions); (iv) not on public sidewalks/rights‑of‑way except in B‑2 zone or as authorized in special event approvals; (v) set back at least 10 ft from public right‑of‑way; (vi) located on same premises as the business; (vii) A‑board/sandwich boards displayed only during business hours, on‑premises (or in designated historic B‑2/heritage zones), not blocking traffic, and in historic districts only if approved by Historic Zoning Commission; (viii) business owners notify the building inspector when placing a portable sign; (ix) grand‑opening/going‑out‑of‑business signs up to 32 sq ft, one time per 12‑month period, for no more than 60 days (larger if more than 100 ft from pavement with BZA approval); (x) removed the morning after the 60‑day period; (xi) existing nonconforming temporary/portable signs must be discontinued or brought into compliance within 30 days (§ 11-1206(3)(f)).
- Directional signs in the historic district recommended/allowed for businesses not fronting Boone or Main Street, when complying with HZC standards and approvals, function as an allowed off‑premises sign type (§ 11-1214(3)(k) and cross‑reference § 11-1212(1)).
Sign Plan & Submission Notes for Jonesborough
- All commercial and business signs, outdoor signs, and subdivision entry signs for single‑family and multi‑family developments must be approved by the Jonesborough Planning Commission before a sign permit is issued, except that signs within the historic district or zone are reviewed and approved instead by the Historic Zoning Commission (§ 11-1205(4), § 11-1215(1)).
- Commercial signs, subdivision signs, and signs for multi‑family developments require Planning Commission approval as part of the sign permit process (§ 11-1215(1)).
- Signs placed in the historic district and zone are subject to approval by the Historic Zoning Commission under its advertising standards and guidelines before a permit is issued (§ 11-1205(1), § 11-1214(4), § 11-1223).
- Any sign in the historic district (H‑1 or H‑2 overlay) must conform to the Historic Zoning Commission standards; in case of conflict between those standards and the general sign chapter, the historic standards govern (§ 11-1214(4), § 11-1223).
- Option One building‑mounted commercial sign schemes: a building signage schematic prepared by an architect or designer, showing designated sign areas on building elevations, must be submitted to and approved by the Planning Commission using adopted Option One signage standards and guidelines (§ 11-1214(3)(a)). The approved sign areas effectively function as a master sign plan for that building.
- Once an Option One building sign area is approved by the Planning Commission, content within that area may change later through a sign permit from the building inspector without returning to the Planning Commission, provided content remains within the approved sign area (§ 11-1214(3)(a)(iii)).
- Under Option Two, building‑mounted commercial signs are limited by linear feet of building frontage; the building inspector may approve these without Planning Commission review if they meet Option Two standards, but any variance request (e.g., additional area) must be submitted to the Planning Commission and will only be considered under Option One guidelines (§ 11-1214(3)(b)).
- The building inspector retains discretion to refer any building sign request under Option Two to the Planning Commission for review (§ 11-1214(3)(b)).
- Freestanding commercial signs that need variances in sign height, sign area, or sign number must go to the Board of Zoning Appeals, which can grant variances based on specified justifications (topography, vegetation preservation, visibility, layout, setbacks) (§ 11-1214(3)(f)).
- Roof signs or signs extending beyond the main roof line are prohibited unless specifically approved by the Jonesborough Planning Commission (and by the Historic Zoning Commission if within a historic zone), implying a special review/variance process (§ 11-1207(18)).
- Electronic variable message signs used off‑premises (billboard conversions) require a new sign permit and must be approved by the Planning Commission, which can also adjust brightness standards in the public interest; existing digital signs are not grandfathered against such changes (§ 11-1213(3)(c)(xiii)–(xvii)).
- Off‑premises directional signs not in the historic district must either be requested by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen or meet specific criteria and then be approved by the Jonesborough Planning Commission (§ 11-1212(2)(a)–(b)(viii)).
- Subdivision development advertising signs larger than 32 sq ft or off‑site subdivision signs require a permit and, where off‑site, are subject to § 11-1212 conditions, which include Planning Commission approval (§ 11-1214(1)(c)).
- In R‑4 districts, freestanding monument signs have their total height and sign‑face distance from the ground determined by the Planning Commission based on topography, vegetation, entrance location, and distance from pavement; a sign schematic with dimensions and site layout must be submitted to the Planning Commission (§ 11-1214(2)).
- Any permanent sign proposed within a public utility or drainage easement requires authorization by the Planning Commission and the utilities involved (§ 11-1208(4)).
- All questions concerning the conformity of a proposed sign to neighborhood uses are determined by the Jonesborough Planning Commission; the permit application must include drawings and information sufficient for this review (§ 11-1216).
- The Board of Zoning Appeals hears and decides variances/appeals relating to signs, including variances for additional signs, sign area, height, and location due to topographical conditions, practical difficulties, or undue hardships (§ 11-1219(1), (4)).
- The Board of Zoning Appeals may grant additional sign area for individual enterprises within shopping centers that lack visible street frontage, allowing signs at entrances, with areas limited to what the Board deems reasonable (§ 11-1219(2)).
- Properties for sale, lease, or rent with no visual access from the nearest street but visible from more distant streets may use larger temporary real estate signs than the standard limits only with a variance approved by the Jonesborough Planning Commission/Board of Zoning Appeals (§ 11-1206(3)(d)(vi)).
- Temporary or portable signs advertising a grand opening or going‑out‑of‑business that exceed 32 sq ft when more than 100 ft from the street require approval of the Board of Zoning Appeals (§ 11-1206(3)(f)(ix)).
- Electronic variable message signs used as on‑premises commercial signs must be supported by an executed agreement acknowledging operating conditions, which must be posted at the message board control panel; use is limited to specified zones and qualifying public/school/church sites (§ 11-1207(7)(a)–(b) as amended by Ord. 2024‑02).
- Any request to convert an existing nonconforming billboard to a changeable message sign must be approved by the Planning Commission, and a new sign permit is required (§ 11-1213(3)(c)(xv), (xvi)).
- All signs located in the Jonesborough Historic District must be reviewed and approved by the Historic Zoning Commission prior to issuance of a building/sign permit (§ 11-1223).
- Commercial establishments using temporary or portable commercial signs must notify the building inspector in advance of the sign being displayed so that the allowable time period can be tracked and enforced (§ 11-1206(3)(f)(viii), § 11-1215(5)).
Source: other municipal code