Garden Grove, CA Outdoor Lighting: Billboard Lighting (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Muni. Code § 9.20.110.D.3.i
- Max light output
- 0.3 foot-candles above ambient
- Required equipment
- Automatic light-sensing dimmer
- Measurement distance
- 150-250 ft, by sign size
- Minimum display hold time
- 8 consecutive seconds
Summary
Garden Grove caps the brightness of electronic billboards along the SR-22 Freeway Corridor at 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light, measured with a foot-candle meter under Municipal Code Section 9.20.110.D.3.i. Every electronic billboard must also carry an automatic light-sensing dimmer that adjusts to changing ambient conditions.
The maximum intensity of light output produced by an electronic billboard display shall be established in relation to the immediate ambient lighting, and each electronic billboard shall incorporate an automatic light sensing device that will adjust the brightness or intensity of light output as ambient light conditions change. The maximum measurable light output of an electronic billboard shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles above the ambient light level at any time, as measured using a foot-candle meter at a pre-set distance perpendicular to the display face of the electronic billboard.
Full Breakdown
i sets the light-intensity standard for electronic billboards converted within the Garden Grove (22) Freeway Corridor. 3 foot-candles above the ambient light level at any time, and every electronic billboard must incorporate an automatic light-sensing device that adjusts brightness as ambient light changes. 5-by-36-foot face, to 250 feet for a 14-by-48-foot face or larger. h: displays must show only still or static images with no movement, flashing, blinking, traveling lights, or intensity variation other than the automatic ambient adjustment, each message must hold for at least eight consecutive seconds, and the blank transition between messages cannot exceed one second. m. D, however, applies only within the 300-foot SR-22 corridor and to converted billboards rather than monument signs generally.
Violations & Fines
An electronic billboard within the SR-22 corridor that exceeds 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light, lacks the required automatic light-sensing dimmer, or displays flashing, blinking, or moving content violates Section 9.20.110.D.3 and is subject to enforcement action that can include suspension of the display or revocation of the relocation agreement authorizing the sign.
Frequently Asked Questions
How bright can an electronic billboard be in Garden Grove?
Do Garden Grove's electronic billboards need automatic dimming?
Can an electronic billboard in Garden Grove flash or show moving images?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Garden Grove
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