City of Decatur Provides Guidance on Window Signage and Lighting Standards

The City of Decatur is working with local businesses to implement signage and lighting standards adopted as part of the City’s approved Zoning Ordinance Rewrite.

The ordinance, approved by the Decatur City Council, updates development and design standards across the city for the first time in decades. As part of that modernization, the ordinance establishes clearer rules for signage and lighting visible from public streets.

Planning Director Chad Bowman said the goal is to create consistent expectations while maintaining attractive commercial corridors.

“Modern zoning ordinances include clear signage and lighting standards so businesses know what is allowed and what is not,” Bowman said. “These updates help maintain a clean and welcoming appearance along our commercial corridors while ensuring businesses operate under the same guidelines.”

Among the standards included in the updated ordinance:

• Window signage that does not exceed 20 percent of the total window glazing area is exempt from the sign standards in 25-5.9.
  • Signs intended to advertise to people outside the building are regulated, even if the sign is located inside the window.
  • LED strip lighting, LED module lighting, and rope lighting may not be used to outline windows, doors, or storefront features when visible from the street.
  • Signs with flashing, rotating, or moving lights visible from the public right-of-way are not permitted.

Code Enforcement Lead Inspector Josh Sloan said the City’s approach focuses on education and communication with business owners.

“Our goal is to work with businesses and help them understand the updated standards,” Sloan said. “We want to make sure everyone has the information they need and the opportunity to bring signage into compliance where needed.”

City officials say the standards help reduce visual clutter, improve safety along busy corridors, and maintain attractive storefronts across Decatur’s commercial areas.

The signage standards apply to businesses across the city and help ensure a consistent and attractive appearance along Decatur’s commercial corridors.

The full Zoning Ordinance Rewrite is available on the City of Decatur website.

👉 View the ordinance: https://tinyurl.com/yr76tfdc

Frequently Asked Questions for Businesses

Why is the City regulating window signage and lighting?

The updated Zoning Ordinance includes modern standards that help maintain safe, attractive commercial areas across Decatur. These rules reduce visual clutter, improve visibility along roadways, and ensure consistent expectations for businesses.

Are window signs allowed?

Yes. Businesses can install signage in storefront windows. However, window signage must not cover more than 20 percent of the entire window area.

Why are LED strip lights around windows not allowed?

LED strip lighting, rope lighting, and similar types used to outline storefront windows or building features can create excessive brightness and visual distraction along busy roads. The ordinance limits lighting styles visible from the street. Temporary holiday-season lighting is exempt from these rules.

What if my sign is inside the building?

Interior signs are allowed. However, if a sign is clearly intended to advertise to people outside the building, it may still be regulated under the City’s sign standards.

What should I do if my signage does not meet the new standards?

City staff is working directly with businesses to answer questions and help owners understand the updated ordinance. In many cases, simple adjustments can bring signage into compliance.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Businesses with questions about signage or lighting standards are encouraged to contact the City of Decatur for assistance.

📧 Questions email: questions@decatur-al.gov

These updates are part of the City’s broader effort to modernize development standards and support vibrant commercial areas throughout Decatur.

In Decatur, We Are Better Together.