Everett, WA Outdoor Lighting: Billboard Lighting (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- EMC 16.20.050(E)
- Wattage cap
- 15 watts, exposed bulbs
- Blinking/flashing
- Prohibited on billboards
- Residential spillover
- Light can't shine into homes
- Enforcement
- Building official, Ch. 1.20 EMC
Summary
Everett requires billboard lighting to be shielded so it doesn't affect nearby homes or drivers, bans blinking and flashing lights, and caps exposed bulbs at fifteen watts.
The light from any illuminated billboard or billboard structure or from any light source shall be so shielded or directed that the light intensity or brightness shall not adversely affect surrounding or facing premises nor adversely affect safe vision of operators or vehicles moving on public or private roads, highways or parking areas. Light shall not shine or reflect on or into residential structures. No billboard or billboard structure shall have blinking, flashing or fluttering lights... Revolving beacons are prohibited.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 4194-26, passed July 29, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under EMC 16.20.050(E), billboard light must be shielded or directed so its intensity doesn't affect surrounding premises or vehicle operators' vision, and it can't shine or reflect into residential structures. Blinking, flashing, fluttering, or color-changing lights are prohibited, along with animation, rotation, and revolving beacons: only date/time/temperature displays are exempt. No exposed reflective bulbs, strobe lights, or incandescent lamps over fifteen watts are allowed on a billboard's exterior facing a street or adjacent property, and reflectors that intensify brightness are barred outright.
Violations & Fines
Violations fall under the billboard permit and enforcement scheme in EMC 16.20.080, which can void or revoke the sign permit and, per Chapter 1.20 EMC, subject the owner to code-enforcement penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a billboard in Everett have flashing lights?
Is there a wattage limit for billboard lights in Everett?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Everett
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Billboard Lighting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Snohomish County handle billboard lighting.