View a copy of Ordinance No. 2609
Letter to Businesses - Official Notice
GATLINBURG, Tenn.— The Gatlinburg City Commission approved the second reading of Ordinance No. 2609, which adds merchandise and lighting regulations to the Gatlinburg Municipal Code, during its meeting on Tuesday, February 20. The approval on second reading came after the Ordinance was reviewed and discussed during a workshop meeting earlier in the evening. The Ordinance was passed on first reading on January 22 and it was also discussed during a Workshop Meeting that evening.
“The intent of this Ordinance is to establish regulations to preserve, protect, and enhance the unique natural aesthetics and character that we know draws millions of visitors to Gatlinburg each year,” Gatlinburg Mayor Mike Werner said. “City staff has worked with a committee of individuals from the business community to help craft these regulations.”
City Commissioners have requested a 60-day grace period on the effective date of the Ordinance, which will make it effective on April 20, 2024.
Regulations in Ordinance No. 2609 regarding merchandise storefront displays specify that the total maximum window space occupied by merchandise and signage within 18 inches of a window shall not exceed 50 percent of each window. The combination of merchandise and signage shall not exceed 50 percent of each window and signage shall not cover more than 30 percent of each window. These provisions apply to each floor of the building where the business is located. Additionally, the Ordinance also limits door displays to no more than 30 percent signage, only likenesses or images of merchandise, and no more than 50 percent coverage.
“Another element involved with the display of merchandise in doors and window is the public safety element for our visitors and for the Gatlinburg Police and Fire Departments to ensure their safe entrance and exits from businesses,” Werner said.
Ordinance No. 2609 also provides design guidelines for lighting displays. Accent and storefront lighting which outlines or is attached to a window, door, or door opening, which are inside or outside of the business and visible to the public, are prohibited. Accent and storefront lighting include strobe lights, flashing lights, neon lights, light strips, rope lights, and strings of bulbs. Holiday lights which are installed during the annual Winterfest event, which is held from mid-November through President’s Day, are exempt from the requirement.
The regulations impacting the merchandise storefront displays are in the C-1, C-2, and C-3 zoning districts and the lighting display regulations are in all commercial zones. Signs, merchandise displays, and lighting displays that are not visible from the public streets or sidewalks are exempt from the provisions outlined in the Ordinance.
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