Virginia Beach, VA Outdoor Lighting: Billboard Lighting (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing provision
- City Zoning Ord. § 213
- Blinking/flashing lights
- Prohibited on all signs
- Digital billboards
- Banned unless Council-approved (§ 218)
- First offense
- Misdemeanor, fine up to $1,000
- Repeat violation
- Up to $2,000 per 10 days
Summary
Virginia Beach requires every illuminated sign, including billboards, to be shielded from glare, banned from blinking or flashing lights, and dimmed so brightness never disturbs neighboring homes or drivers.
(a) The light from any illuminated sign shall be so shaded, shielded or directed that the light intensity or brightness shall not adversely affect surrounding or facing premises nor adversely affect safe vision of operators of vehicles moving on public or private roads, highways, or parking areas. Light shall not shine or reflect in an offensive manner on or into residential structures, including motels. ... (c) No sign shall contain or consist of blinking, flashing or intermittent lights or similar illuminating devices, whether or not such devices constitute a public safety or traffic hazard.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 170 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Under City Zoning Ordinance Sec. 213, every illuminated sign in Virginia Beach, including the pre-1987 outdoor advertising structures the code calls billboards, must be shaded, shielded or directed so its brightness never disturbs neighboring premises, blinds drivers, or shines into residential structures. Exposed reflective bulbs that create offensive glare are barred, and no sign may blink, flash or use intermittent lighting. Electronic display billboards are separately prohibited citywide except when City Council approves one for a major entertainment venue under Sec. 218. The zoning administrator enforces both rules.
Violations & Fines
Violating the illumination or no-blink rule is a misdemeanor carrying up to a $1,000 fine; failure to correct it adds separate $1,000-$2,000 fines for each following ten-day period under Sec. 104.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a billboard in Virginia Beach have blinking lights?
Are digital billboards allowed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Virginia Beach
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