The purpose of this chapter is to ensure that the design, construction,
installation, and maintenance of all exterior Signs in the Town of
Dedham are compatible with the unique character and environment of
the community through a comprehensive system of reasonable, effective,
consistent, content-neutral, and non-discriminatory Sign standards
and requirements, including the following specific purposes:
A. Ensure that all Signs are compatible with the unique character and
environment of the Town of Dedham, and that they support the desired
ambiance and development patterns of the various districts, overlay
districts, and historic areas within the town.
B. Balance public and private objectives by allowing adequate avenues
for both Commercial and non-Commercial Messages.
C. Improve pedestrian and traffic safety by promoting the free flow
of traffic and the protection of pedestrians and motorists from injury
and Property damage caused by, or which may be fully or partially
attributable to, cluttered, distracting, and/or illegible Signage.
D. Prevent Property damage, personal injury, and litter caused by Signs
that are improperly constructed or poorly maintained.
E. Protect Property values, the local economy, and quality of life by
preserving and enhancing the appearance of the streetscape.
F. Provide consistent Sign design standards that enable the fair and
consistent enforcement of these Sign regulations.
G. Assist with the implementation of adopted plans, guidelines, and
regulatory requirements of the town, including the town's master
plan and zoning bylaws.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c.43B.
This Section is not intended to, and does not, restrict speech on the basis of its content, viewpoint, or message. No part of this chapter shall be construed to favor commercial speech over non-commercial speech. A non-Commercial Message may be substituted for any commercial or non-Commercial Message displayed on a Sign without the need for any approval or Sign permit, provided that the Sign is otherwise permissible under this Section. If a Commercial Message is substituted for any other Commercial Message, a Sign permit is required pursuant to §
237-5. To the extent any provision of this Section is ambiguous, the provision will be interpreted not to regulate on the basis of the content of the message.