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Commissioners ask staff to research digital sign timing and traffic safety before amending sign ordinance
Summary
The board reviewed the sign ordinance’s rule limiting digital signs to one change per 24 hours and asked staff to research traffic‑safety guidance and district‑specific allowances before drafting any amendments that would permit more frequent message changes.
Coweta County commissioners discussed whether to relax a restriction in the county’s sign ordinance that limits digital or LED signs to changing no more than once every 24 hours.
Mister Pabst summarized the current ordinance and told the board that other jurisdictions range in how they regulate electronic signage — from prohibition to little regulation. The specific local language in question limits changing messages to once per 24 hours, and some commissioners said that rule is too rigid for digital message boards used by schools and businesses.
One commissioner said existing digital signs within the city already change more frequently and that allowing more frequent changes could better serve local businesses; another commissioner urged staff to review traffic and safety research because rapidly changing signage can distract motorists. “I would ask for us to look at that as well because there have been accidents at Interstate 85 where that digital sign is where people are looking,” one commissioner said.
Staff said they would research transportation guidance and related timing restrictions used elsewhere and would return with options that address readability, motorist safety and district‑specific allowances.
No changes were made at the work session; the discussion produced direction for staff questions and additional research only.
