Pittsburgh, PA Outdoor Lighting: Billboard Lighting (2026)
Key Facts
- Daytime brightness cap
- 2,500 nits (sunrise to sunset)
- Nighttime brightness cap
- 250 nits (all other hours)
- Where allowed
- AS-O Subdistrict A only
- Approval required
- ZBA special exception
- Max penalty
- $1,000 fine per offense
Summary
Pittsburgh caps electronic billboards at 2,500 nits during the day and 250 nits at night, with automatic dimmers and annual certification required under the zoning code's advertising sign standards.
During daylight hours between sunrise and sunset, luminance shall be no greater than two thousand five hundred (2,500) nits. At all other times, luminance shall be no greater than two hundred fifty (250) nits.
Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh limits new electronic advertising signs (digital billboards) to the AS-O Subdistrict A, where the Zoning Board of Adjustment must approve them as special exceptions. Under Pittsburgh Code § 919.02.C.3, all motion is banned, the display can't change more than once every 30 seconds, and luminance is capped at 2,500 nits from sunrise to sunset and 250 nits at all other times. Signs must carry an automatic dimmer that enforces those limits, and owners must file an annual certification confirming compliance. New electronic advertising signs are barred outright in City Designated Historic Districts and the RIV Zoning District.
Violations & Fines
Violating the zoning code's sign standards is punishable on conviction by a fine up to $1,000 per offense plus costs under Pittsburgh Code § 924.04.G, with each day of continued violation a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
How bright can an electronic billboard be in Pittsburgh?
Where can new electronic advertising signs go in Pittsburgh?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pittsburgh
Compare Pittsburgh to another location·View the Pennsylvania outdoor lighting overview
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