A comprehensive sign bylaw, which Rochester lacks, was unveiled Saturday morning, and officials are asking for the public’s input.

Bylaw Review Committee member Richard Cutler said the new bylaw is designed to “protect the rural character of Rochester.”

With sections governing the use of political, business and real estate signs, in addition to illuminated signs, Cutler said residents would have a clear understanding of what is allowed if the bylaw is adopted.

“This will minimize what I personally like to call sign pollution,” Cutler said.

Right now, signs are mentioned in a few different bylaws making it difficult to know what is allowed.

“The current bylaw says little,” Cutler said.

One major change allows for internally illuminated signs, which are banned.

Under the bylaw, internally or externally signs are allowed by right and must not exceed 9 square feet in a residential or limited commercial district.

In the general commercial and industrial district illuminated signs may not exceed 50 square feet.

External light shielding will be required for signs in all districts to avoid lighting areas outside of the sign’s surface.

Cutler said a sign’s brightness will also be limited, but those limits haven’t been identified yet. A light meter has been purchased to aid enforcement.

During Saturday’s public forum, residents questioned the effectiveness of the bylaw without proper enforcement.

Zoning Enforcement Officer James Buckles would be tasked with making sure the bylaw is followed.

While yard sale and political signs are allowed by right, they must be removed in a timely manner and can't be placed on town or someone else’s property without permission.

Buckles said previous town administrators have asked him to remove signs that didn't comply. However, as a part time employee who is also the town’s building commissioner, Buckles said he has to prioritize his duties.

“I don’t have enough time to do everything I have do as it is,” Buckles said.

Another resident asked if it would be possible to prohibit all illuminated signs in residential and agricultural districts.

Cutler said there are many small businesses operating out of homes in those areas.

“I don’t think business located there would appreciate that,” Cutler said. “They want to advertise too.”

Planning Board member Ben Bailey agreed, saying residents who illuminate flags and the exterior of homes with lights would be affected.

“It would be harsh to tell everyone they can’t do that,” Bailey said.

In drafting the bylaw Cutler said his committee looked to neighboring towns.

In one case they found a 61-page sign bylaw.

At nine pages, he said Rochester’s bylaw is comprehensive without being confusing.

“This will reduce frustration for people by making it clear what they can and cannot do,” Cutler said.

The bylaw requires the approval of town meeting voters. Cutler said he was unsure if it would be ready for the upcoming Fall Town Meeting, scheduled for Oct. 19.

Anyone who with questions regarding the bylaw or who wants to view a copy should contact the Planning Board at 508-763-5421.