04/04/2025
We have seen mention lately of emergency services struggling to find addresses when responding to emergency incidents. If you do not have an address sign, please reach out to us and we will get you set up with one. The cost is minimal compared to the loss of life or property if the fire department, ambulance or police can't locate you.
Here are some frequently asked questions:
What is a 911 Address?
A 911 Address is a street number assigned to and displayed on or near an addressable structure, in accordance with Tioga County 911 Standards and Protocols in conjunction with local municipal ordinances. Street numbers are in place for your safety so that emergency responders can find locations quicker in the event of an emergency.
What is an address sign? (Blue Reflective 911 Sign)
There are many different ways to display a 911 address, however every municipality in Tioga County has signed an ordinance requiring that:
“The assigned street numbers shall be either affixed directly to the building or post or displayed on a sign affixed to the building or post. The street number shall be displayed in such a manner that the numbers will contrast in color with the background and will be observed and readable from the nearest public or private roadway. All numbers shall be in standard Arabic numerals, not less than four (4) inches in height and not less than one half-inch in width. It is recommended that the numbers be reflective for greater nighttime visibility.”
A countywide standard suggests a blue metal sign with white reflective letters.
Who has to have an address?
All addressable structures must have a 911 Address assigned by the Tioga County Department of Emergency Services, regardless of the type of structure (i.e., residential vs. commercial vs. industrial).
Any addressable structure that is defined as a permanent structure with living or business space must be addressed for in Tioga County. This includes houses, camps, mobile homes (single and double wide), apartments, office buildings, gas wells, compression sites, commercial buildings and retail locations. Outbuildings such as sheds, pole barns, and garages need not be addressed, but can be if requested by the property owner.
Who has to have an address sign? (Blue Reflective 911 Sign)
Any structure in Tioga County with a 911 Address assigned to it must also have a 911 Address sign displayed on or near the addressable structure so that the sign is visible from the roadway. A countywide standard suggests a blue metal sign with white reflective letters.
When should I get a 911 Address?
For new buildings, a 911 Address should be requested and assigned to a structure PRIOR to the beginning of construction. If you do not have an address, you will not be able to secure the proper utilities that are required for homeownership and or building protocols.
For existing structures, a 911 Address should be requested in the rare event that you do not have one, you would like one for a seasonal camp/cabin, or if you are not sure of the exact 911 Number.
When do I need an address sign? (Blue Reflective Sign)
As soon as an address is assigned to a structure, an address sign needs to be posted on or near the building so that it is visible from the roadway. This is due to local ordinance.
If your previous sign has been lost/stolen or has been damaged, you should request a new one as soon as possible.
911 Addresses cannot be created through a local municipality, State Department of Transportation, the United States Postal Service (USPS) or any other entity. 911 addresses can only be obtained by contacting The Tioga County GIS Department at 570-723-8253
Where do I get an address sign? (Blue Reflective Sign)
The Tioga County Department of Emergency Services maintains a inventory of Blue Reflective 911 address signs and letters/numbers at all times.
In order to purchase a sign, please submit a completed Address Sign Order Form the Department of Emergency Services. Visit
A 911 Address is a street number assigned to and displayed on or near an addressable structure, in accordance with Tioga County 911 Standards and Protocols and local municipal ordinances. Street numbers are in place for your safety so that emergency responders can find locations quicker in the event...
