Wisconsin Sign Ordinance Best Practices Guidebook®

Giffels Webster worked with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation’s Main Street Wisconsin division to develop a model sign ordinance with variations demonstrating permissive, restrictive, and prescriptive regulations for signs. As the model ordinance language was
developed it became clear that the model would most useful if it came with advice for how to use and tailor the language. This lead to the development of an illustrated guidebook explaining best practices for sign ordinances, legal authority and case law, amendment procedures, and administrative considerations. Communities across Wisconsin can use the guidebook and model ordinance language to inform them as they amend their sign ordinances, and Main Street Wisconsin has a powerful took to inform its consultations with its member communities as they work to strengthen downtowns and historic commercial areas.

Client

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

Location

Wisconsin

Services

Community Planning

Year Completed

2026

Markets

Municipal

Individuals in a meeting for East Bay Township
Individuals in a meeting about the Farmington Hills Master Plan
A Main Street in Michigan

East Bay Township Zoning Ordinance

East Bay Township’s zoning ordinance was comprehensively rewritten to implement the Master Plan, strengthen environmental protections, streamline development processes, and improve usability through Clearzoning formatting, guiding future growth while safeguarding natural resources and supporting flexible, modern development standards.

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Farmington Hills Master Plan

Farmington Hills’ updated Master Plan, created through extensive community engagement, establishes nine guiding priorities and reimagines key corridors with flexible zoning, mixed-use development, and vibrant spaces that support housing, sustainability, economic growth, and community wellness.

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Michigan Main Street

Giffels Webster provided strategic planning and technical assistance through the Michigan Main Street Program, helping downtown organizations assess conditions, engage communities, and develop actionable plans aligned with local priorities and the Main Street Four Points Approach.

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Projects

Related Projects

Let’s Talk About Your Project

Have a project in mind? Our team is ready to collaborate and deliver solutions that align with your goals. Reach out to learn how we can help bring your vision to life.

Start Your Project

Let’s Talk About Your Project

Have a project in mind? Our team is ready to collaborate and deliver solutions that align with your goals. Reach out to learn how we can help bring your vision to life.

Start Your Project
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