New Sign Bylaw Proposal Would Allow Electronic Billboards in Foxborough

A new set of propose regulations for signs could mean more electronic billboards for drivers on Route 1.

Town Planner Sharon Wason recently told the Boston Globe that the regulations would replace a bylaw that predates digital advertisement.

If approved at the Special Town Meeting in November, the bylaws would allow for electronic billboards every 1,000 feet on Route 1 and traditional billboards every 500 feet.

In addition, all billboards would be limited to a 50-foot height rule if they are close to the road and restrict them to commercial properties on Route 1. The signs could be up to 15 percent taller if they are at least 100 feet away from the road and 25 percent taller if they are 350 feet away.

Other aspects of the proposed bylaw include a ban on the use of video, the creation of three sign districts in town, and placing all signs in town under review.

Signs within Gillette Stadium would be exempted from the new bylaw, and roof signs would be allowed on the stadium and buildings on the same lot. The town will not place limits on banners, pennants, awnings, or other similar signs in the stadium lot, and any lot facing Route 1 can have them for up to 30 days a year according to the Globe.

A review of the town’s sign bylaw began about a year ago after the town received two requests for electronic billboards on Route 1 including one from the Kraft Group for a sign near Gillette Stadium.

Currently, there is one electronic billboard in Foxborough located on Route 1 near McDonald’s. That billboard was set up years ago when the state converted a traditional billboard.

The Advisory Committee are expected to meet on Wednesday to discuss the proposal.