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Acworth adopts revised sign ordinance allowing routed urethane, capping temporary sign permits and banning low‑grade sheet‑metal signs
Summary
The board unanimously adopted updates to the sign ordinance (Chapter 74) July 2 to allow routed high‑density urethane in the historic business district when finished to match historic character, ban certain sheet‑metal printed signs, revise temporary sign permit options (14/30/90 days, capped at 182 days annually), and adopt the official sign district map.
The Acworth Board of Aldermen unanimously adopted changes to Chapter 74 of the sign ordinance on July 2, updating permitted materials, clarifying temporary sign timelines and adopting the official sign district map.
City staff told the board the change to allow routed high‑density urethane was recommended because the material can be finished to look like traditional routed wood and is more durable and cost‑effective. "It has to look routed," staff said when describing the allowance for urethane in the historic business district. Staff said the intent is to allow materials that maintain downtown character while improving longevity.
The ordinance also prohibits lower‑grade sheet‑style metal signage (examples described as printed aluminum rectangles) and protects the city’s ability to prevent future re‑permitting of those lower‑quality signs. Staff clarified that existing sheet‑style metal signs would be allowed to remain but could not be re‑permitted once removed.
Temporary signage procedures were simplified to offer 14‑, 30‑ and 90‑day permit options with an annual cap of 182 days per business. Construction and real‑estate signs were carved out as exemptions but must be removed when the project finishes or a sale executes. Staff noted the 70% unobstructed window requirement remains in place to preserve visibility and safety; the board discussed enforcement and safety concerns for certain businesses where police visibility is necessary.
Board members raised questions about the precise definitions (for example, how to calculate the 30%/70% window measurement and whether film applied to windows constitutes signage). Staff and the city attorney clarified that signage fixed to glass is regulated as signage; product displays or items stacked inside a store generally are not.
After discussion about administrative variances, LED restrictions and an official sign map reflecting recent rezonings and annexations, a motion to adopt Ordinance 2026‑20 (the Chapter 74 amendments and the official sign map) passed unanimously.
During public clarification, resident Melanie Bowling asked whether the donation‑bin prohibition could unintentionally include small donation birdhouses; staff said they would ensure the ordinance language targets the larger donation bins that have produced dumping issues.
The ordinance is effective per municipal rules and staff will circulate guidance to businesses and property owners about new material allowances, temporary sign processes and enforcement practices.
