Sign Regulations in Livingston, Tennessee
Livingston, Tennessee has specific sign regulations covering 22 sign types across 6 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include Temporary Sign, Off-Premises Sign, Government Signs. Height restrictions apply. Permits are required for most commercial signs. Use PermitPal to get instant access to the complete regulations.
Data last verified: October 30, 2025
Sign Regulation Overview for Livingston, Tennessee
Sample Sign Requirements in Livingston
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary Sign | — | 6 sq ft | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way in all districts except C-2; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. |
| Off-Premises Sign | — | 9 sq ft | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way in all districts except C-2; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. |
| Ground Sign (General) | 25 ft (maximum height for any sign, including roof signs) | 6 sq ft (unless otherwise permitted by this Code) | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way in all districts except C-2; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
PermitPal Coverage for LivingstonFull Coverage
Sign Types Covered
22
- Temporary Sign
- Off-Premises Sign
- Government Signs
- Wall Sign (Single Exterior Wall)
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
6
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Official Resources for Livingston
Other Cities in Tennessee
Frequently Asked Questions
Sign height limits in Livingston 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 Livingston, 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 Livingston, regulated sign types include Temporary Sign, Off-Premises Sign, Government Signs, Wall Sign (Single Exterior Wall), 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 Livingston 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 Livingston are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. Livingston has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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Livingston, Tennessee Sign Rules at a Glance
Livingston, Tennessee regulates 22 sign types across 6 zoning districts. Ground Sign (General)s in the General Regulations For All Zones zoning district are capped at 25 ft (maximum height for any sign, including roof signs) tall and 6 sq ft (unless otherwise permitted by this Code), with a Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way in all districts except C-2; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. setback (Sec. 11-203.9.1(e); 11-203.9.4(a), (d), (j); 11-203.9.2(e)). Most commercial signs in Livingston require a permit.
Detailed Sign Ordinance Requirements for Livingston, Tennessee
Sign Rules by Zoning District in Livingston (6 zones)
| Zoning District | Sign Types Regulated | Max Height | Max Area | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Regulations For All Zones | 6 | 25 ft (maximum height for any sign, including roof signs) | 9 sq ft | — |
| Residential R-1 Districts (Low Density), Residential R-2 Districts (High Density) | 6 | 25 ft | 9 sq ft | — |
| Commercial C-M Districts (Medical), Commercial C-1 Districts (Local), Commercial C-3 Districts (General), Commercial C-4 Districts (Planned), Industrial I-1 Districts (Light), Industrial I-2 Districts (Heavy) | 10 | 25 ft | 24 sq ft | — |
| Commercial C-2 Districts (Central Business District) | 10 | 25 ft | 24 sq ft | — |
| Historical H-1 District | 1 | 25 ft (general limit for signs, where applicable) | — | — |
| Floodway F-1 Districts | 1 | 25 ft (general limit for signs, where applicable) | — | — |
Zone-by-Zone Sign Requirements in Livingston(sample of 3 of 6 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary Sign | — | 6 sq ft | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way in all districts except C-2; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | — | Not permitted within any public right-of-way or sidewalk; exception: may be in a public right-of-way only if being held by a person (i.e., not placed). | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.1(b); 11-203.9.4(a), (g), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Off-Premises Sign | — | 9 sq ft | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way in all districts except C-2; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | 1 per tax parcel | On private property with property owner's written consent. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.1(c); 11-203.9.4(a), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Ground Sign (General) | 25 ft (maximum height for any sign, including roof signs) | 6 sq ft (unless otherwise permitted by this Code) | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way in all districts except C-2; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | — | Must be permanently attached to a footer or masonry foundation. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.1(e); 11-203.9.4(a), (d), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Portable Sign (General) | — | 9 sq ft (unless otherwise permitted by this Code) | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way in all districts except C-2; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | — | Neither portable nor temporary signs may be placed on any street right-of-way or sidewalk. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.1(f); 11-203.9.4(a), (g), (j), (k); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Projecting Sign (General) | — | 6 sq ft (unless otherwise permitted by this Code) | 3 ft lateral projection (unless otherwise permitted by this Code) | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way in all districts except C-2; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | — | In C-2, may extend over public sidewalk to within 2 ft of the sidewalk’s outer edge; otherwise subject to general clearance and placement rules. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.1(g); 11-203.9.4(a), (f), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Government Signs | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.1(h); 11-203.9.4(e) |
Commercial C-M Districts (Medical), Commercial C-1 Districts (Local), Commercial C-3 Districts (General), Commercial C-4 Districts (Planned), Industrial I-1 Districts (Light), Industrial I-2 Districts (Heavy)
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Sign (Single Exterior Wall) | — | 15% of forward-facing wall area | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection (applies to freestanding placements; wall signs must not impede visibility). | 1 per exterior wall | On exterior building wall(s). | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(a); 11-203.9.4(a), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Wall Sign (Multi-Unit Development Occupants) | — | 15% of occupant's allocated forward-facing wall area | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection (applies to freestanding placements; wall signs must not impede visibility). | 1 per occupant | On exterior building wall(s) in strip centers or similar multi-unit buildings. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(a)(i); 11-203.9.4(a), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Wall Sign (Multiple Exterior Walls) | — | Combined total ≤20% of area of front wall permitted to be used | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection (applies to freestanding placements; wall signs must not impede visibility). | Per exterior wall, subject to combined area limit | On front and side walls. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(a)(ii); 11-203.9.4(a), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Ground Sign (C & I) | 25 ft | 24 sq ft | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection; must not impede visibility for pedestrians or drivers. | — | Freestanding; must be permanently attached to a footer or masonry foundation. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(b); 11-203.9.1(e); 11-203.9.4(a), (d), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Portable Sign (C & I) | — | 12 sq ft | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | — | Neither portable nor temporary signs may be placed on any street right-of-way or sidewalk. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(c); 11-203.9.4(a), (g), (k), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Projecting Sign (C & I) | — | 12 sq ft | 4 ft lateral projection (unless otherwise provided) | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | — | May not extend over sidewalk except as allowed in C-2; otherwise must comply with clearance and visibility rules. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(d); 11-203.9.4(a), (f), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Roof Sign (C & I) | 25 ft (measured from ground level) | 24 sq ft | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | — | On roof; permitted in C and I districts. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(e); 11-203.9.4(a), (d), (h), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Off-Premises Sign | — | 9 sq ft | — | Minimum 10 ft from street right-of-way; at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | 1 per tax parcel | On private property with property owner's written consent. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.1(c); 11-203.9.4(a), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
Commercial C-2 Districts (Central Business 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Sign (Single Exterior Wall) | — | 15% of forward-facing wall area | — | No minimum setback from street right-of-way specified for C-2; all signs must be at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection and must not impede visibility. | 1 per exterior wall | On exterior building wall(s). | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(a); 11-203.9.4(a), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Wall Sign (Multi-Unit Development Occupants) | — | 15% of occupant's allocated forward-facing wall area | — | No minimum setback from street right-of-way specified for C-2; all signs must be at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection and must not impede visibility. | 1 per occupant | On exterior building wall(s) in strip centers or similar multi-unit buildings. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(a)(i); 11-203.9.4(a), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Wall Sign (Multiple Exterior Walls) | — | Combined total ≤20% of area of front wall permitted to be used | — | No minimum setback from street right-of-way specified for C-2; all signs must be at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection and must not impede visibility. | Per exterior wall, subject to combined area limit | On front and side walls. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(a)(ii); 11-203.9.4(a), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Ground Sign (C-2) | 25 ft | 24 sq ft | — | No minimum setback from street right-of-way specified for C-2; all signs must be at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection and must not impede visibility. | — | Freestanding; must be permanently attached to a footer or masonry foundation. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(b); 11-203.9.1(e); 11-203.9.4(a), (d), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Portable Sign (C-2) | — | 12 sq ft | — | No minimum setback from street right-of-way specified for C-2; all signs must be at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | — | Neither portable nor temporary signs may be placed on any street right-of-way or sidewalk. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(c); 11-203.9.4(a), (g), (k), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Projecting Sign (C-2) | — | 12 sq ft | 4 ft lateral projection | No minimum setback from street right-of-way specified for C-2; all signs must be at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | — | May extend over the public sidewalk in C-2 District to within 2 ft of the sidewalk’s outer edge. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(d); 11-203.9.4(a), (f), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Roof Sign (C-2) | 25 ft (measured from ground level) | 24 sq ft | — | No minimum setback from street right-of-way specified for C-2; all signs must be at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | — | On roof; permitted in C-2. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.3(e); 11-203.9.4(a), (d), (h), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
| Off-Premises Sign | — | 9 sq ft | — | No minimum setback from street right-of-way specified for C-2; all signs must be at least 10 ft from the corner of any street intersection. | 1 per tax parcel | On private property with property owner's written consent. | — | Unlock | 11-203.9.1(c); 11-203.9.4(a), (j); 11-203.9.2(e) |
PermitPal covers all 6 zoning districts in Livingston — full sign requirements for every zone, plus illumination rules, size formulas, and permit requirements for every sign type — with a free account.
See all 6 zones for Livingston — start freeProhibited Signs in Livingston
- Signs on any vacant lot or parcel of land lying between two residential structures or uses where said structures or uses are less than 100 feet apart, or located within 50 feet of any residential use in the same block frontage (prohibited in all districts).
- Abandoned or obsolete signs, including those on abandoned or vacant buildings (prohibited in all districts).
- Signs painted on or attached to fence posts, trees, rocks, canopy posts, utility poles, and similar supports (prohibited in all districts).
- Billboards (prohibited in all districts).
- Flashing signs (prohibited in all districts).
- Portable or temporary signs placed on any street right-of-way or sidewalk (prohibited in all districts).
- Placement of signs that interferes with or impedes visibility for pedestrians or drivers (prohibited citywide).
- Signs exceeding 25 feet in height from ground level (prohibited citywide).
- Projecting signs installed less than 9 feet above ground level (prohibited citywide).
- More than one sign per side of a sign structure, or more than two signs per sign structure, unless otherwise expressly provided (prohibited citywide).
- Signs placed within 10 feet of the corner of any street intersection (prohibited citywide).
- Signs with electrical wiring that does not conform to the Livingston Municipal Code and state-adopted minimum standards; any nonconforming wiring must be brought into compliance within 90 days.
Exempt Signs in Livingston
- Government signs: no limitations, restrictions, or requirements apply unless otherwise expressly stated.
- Signs not visible off the lot upon which they are situated are permitted in all districts.
- Temporary signs up to 6 square feet, displayed no more than 120 days during any 365-day period; not permitted within any public right-of-way unless held by a person (permitted in all districts).
- One off-premises sign per tax parcel on private property with written owner consent, up to 9 square feet; must be registered with the Codes Inspector at City Hall at no cost or display a date in plain view when set out (permitted in all districts).
- On-premises signs that comply with all requirements of the Code (permitted in all districts).
- Ground signs permanently attached to a footer or masonry foundation not exceeding 6 square feet unless otherwise permitted by the Code (permitted in all districts).
- Portable signs not exceeding 9 square feet unless otherwise permitted by the Code (permitted in all districts).
- Projecting signs not extending more than 3 feet laterally and not exceeding 6 square feet unless otherwise permitted by the Code (permitted in all districts).
Sign Plan & Submission Notes for Livingston
- A building permit is required for all signs exceeding 6 square feet within the Town of Livingston.
- Permit applications must include plans and specifications identifying the location, type, and design of proposed and existing signs.
- If the Building Inspector finds the application conforms to the sign regulations and the location is not within the Historic District, the Building Inspector may issue the sign permit and will report monthly to the Planning Commission on permits issued.
- Any problems with sign applications must be referred by the Building Inspector to the Planning Commission.
- Applications for signs located within the Historic District must be forwarded to the Historic Commission for review.
Source: other municipal code