Sign Regulations in New Bedford, MA (2026)
2 verified sign regulations for New Bedford, Massachusetts, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Digital Billboards
New Bedford prohibits the construction of any new off-premise sign, including billboards, electronic signs, digital billboards and CEVMS, anywhere in the city, and the city will not issue permits for them. The ban also blocks converting an existing off-premise sign into a digital or electronic display.
New Bedford Bans New Digital and Off-Premise Billboards
Heavy RestrictionsNew Bedford Zoning Ordinance § 3228 (Off-Premise Signs Prohibited)
Off-Premise Signs Prohibited: The construction of new off-premise signs, including billboards, electronic signs, digital billboards, CEVMS or Dynamic Displays is prohibited throughout the City and the City may not issue permits for their construction or relocation. This prohibition shall include the construction, reconstruction, enhancement, upgrading or conversion of an existing off-premise si...
Window Signs
New Bedford's Zoning Ordinance defines "sign" broadly enough to reach electric displays in windows and doors, but expressly excludes a temporary display inside a window that covers no more than 30 percent of the window area and is lit only by the building's own lighting, plus any window display of merchandise, so both fall outside the Section 3200 sign rules.
New Bedford Window Display Sign Size Exemption
Light RestrictionsNew Bedford Zoning Ordinance § 1200 (definition of "Sign")
Sign: Any device designed to inform or attract the attention of persons not on the premises on which the device is located. Any building surfaces other than windows that are internally illuminated or decorated with gaseous tubes or other lights are considered "signs." The following, however, shall not be considered signs within the context of this Ordinance: ...Temporary displays inside windows...
Looking for Bristol County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement New Bedford city rules.
Sign Regulations in Bristol County →