Proposed New Local Sign Ordinance: A Solution in Search of a Problem?

On June 1, the Thetford Selectboard will review—and likely approve—a proposed 20-page ordinance that would establish a comprehensive local framework for sign regulation. The ordinance, if adopted, would introduce new criteria governing the size, location, type, and design of signs throughout the town—adding a layer of municipal oversight—and a new Enforcement Officer role—atop existing state-level restrictions.

Vermont is widely recognized for its restrictive statewide approach to signage, including a complete ban on billboards and strong controls over roadside advertising. The statewide law was adopted in 1968, making it one of the first states to be virtually without any billboards. Only Alaska, Hawaii, and Maine also prohibit billboards.However, Thetford currently has no local ordinance that regulates signs beyond what state law provides. The proposed measure is inspired by that lack of local regulation rather than an ongoing concern about existing signage in town.

According to the draft, the ordinance is based on the Town’s authority under 24 V.S.A. § 2291 and aims to protect public safety, visual character, and property values while maintaining space for free expression.

The proposed ordinance includes detailed provisions covering: • Permitting: Most new signs would require a sign permit issued by the town’s Enforcement Officer. Permit applications would need to include scaled drawings, site plans, and in some cases, proof of insurance. "Every applicant, before being granted a permit hereunder, shall pay to the Town such permit fee or fees in accordance with the schedule of fees adopted by resolution of the Selectboard, and as amended from time to time.”  The Selectboard has yet to set the fee for the sign permit application.

• Size and Placement: Limits are proposed for wall signs (maximum of 5% of façade area or 100 square feet), freestanding signs (up to 32 square feet or 64 square feet for multi-tenant properties), and sidewalk signs (maximum 9 square feet, with dimensional constraints on width and height). Height restrictions also apply to most categories.

• Prohibited Sign Types: The ordinance bans several categories of signs, including: billboards; animated or flashing signs; inflatable or wind-blown signs; roof-mounted signs; and permanent banners or pennants

• Lighting Restrictions: Signs must use indirect or shielded lighting. Bare bulbs and excessive glare are prohibited. Business signs may not remain illuminated for more than one hour after closing, with exceptions for facilities like ATMs or EV charging stations.

• Temporary Signs: Sidewalk and event signage is allowed under defined conditions, including duration limits (7–14 days per month) and size caps. Temporary off-premises signs for civic or nonprofit events are permitted with landowner consent.

• Zoning Distinctions: The ordinance differentiates between signage allowances in residential and commercial districts. Home occupations and residential complexes are subject to specific size limits.

• Exemptions: Numerous sign types are exempt from permit requirements, including ADA compliance signs, directional signs, holiday decorations, “help wanted” signs, and government-related signage. Certain incidental and directional signs are also exempt within defined criteria.

• Appeals and Enforcement: A formal appeal process is included for denied applications. The ordinance outlines enforcement procedures, including notice of violation, 180-day cure periods, and fines of up to $100 per violation. Unsafe or unlawful signs may be removed by the town at the owner’s expense.

Thetford’s commercial tax base currently makes up approximately 4% of the town’s overall taxable value (compared to a closer-to-50/50 split in Lebanon, for example), suggesting limited commercial signage pressure in town. Meanwhile, commercial development has been stagnant or even retreating. The ordinance notes aesthetic and safety concerns as its primary motivations, rather than response to a documented increase in signage activity or public concerns.

If the ordinance is adopted, it will take effect 60 days after Selectboard approval unless a petition under 24 V.S.A. § 1973 triggers a town-wide vote.