The town understands that it is important for businesses to advertise their goods and services. However, there have been many complaints recently regarding illegal temporary signs in Tryon. There are sign regulations in the Tryon Zoning Ordinance that limit the type, size, placement and timing of temporary signs. The purpose of the sign regulations is to provide a pleasing overall environmental setting and good community appearance, which is deemed vital to the continued economic attractiveness of the town. The regulations are also intended to ensure that signs do not become a hazard or nuisance, to promote traffic safety, to protect and enhance the value of properties, and to promote the public safety and general welfare of the Town of Tryon.

The following temporary signs are allowed with specific requirements in the Town of Tryon: political signs, real estate signs, special event signs for non-profit organizations, single-day event signs for non-profit organizations, yard sale signs, window signs, and limited banners hung against building walls to advertise business events. If a temporary sign does not fall into one of these categories or does not meet the specific requirements for the type of sign, then it is not permitted and may be subject to civil penalties of $50 each. Also, temporary signs may not be located in the right-of-way.

Right-of-way width varies for different road types. For the major roads in town (Highway 176 and Highway 108) the right-of-way is typically 60 feet wide and can be measured 30 feet from the centerline of the road. A good rule of thumb is to place signs behind utility poles, sidewalks, or ditches since these are typically set at the back of the right-of-way. Also, signs may not be placed on traffic signs, trees, or utility poles. If signs are placed in the right-of-way, then they may be removed by the code enforcement officer, public works department, police department, or other designated town official and may be subject to civil penalties of $50 each.

Please contact the town planner, Erin Burris, at 1-800-650-3925 for any question you may have about signs.

Thank you for your cooperation.