Alpharetta, GA Sign Regulations: Window Signs (2026)

UDC § 2.6.8(8) places window signs on the Code's prohibited-sign list once their combined copy area exceeds 20 percent of a tenant space's total window area, or once they otherwise fail to meet the sign ordinance's other standards. A 'Window Sign' is defined in § 2.6.3 as any sign installed on or inside a window for viewing from outside the building, excluding ordinary merchandise displays. Because window signs that stay within the 20-percent cap and meet the Code's other standards are listed among the exemptions from the permit requirement in § 2.6.7(E), most compliant window signs never need a sign permit from the Director at all; a business only runs into trouble by exceeding the aggregate coverage limit or by installing a sign type the Code separately prohibits, such as an internally illuminated window sign under § 2.6.8(28), which bans internally illuminated window signs, including neon or LED signs, along with LED, string, or similar lighting used to outline windows, doors, or similar building features.

Strip shopping center tenants face an additional layer of standards in § 2.6.12 governing illuminated window signage, but the citywide 20-percent aggregate cap in § 2.6.8(8) applies in every zoning district.