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Dayton, OH Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

One electronic panel
per direction per location
Governing section
R.C.G.O. §150.925.2(B), .9(I)
Max civil penalty
$1,000/day (§150.130.7)
Applies to
off-premise (billboard) signs only

Summary

Dayton's zoning code allows electronic off-premise signs (digital billboards) but caps them at one per direction per site and regulates their illumination and message changes.

Electronic Off-Premise Sign means an off-premise sign, or portion thereof, that can be electronically changed by remote or automatic means... At a single location, only one multiple message advertising device or electronic off-premise sign panel shall be permitted to face the same direction.

Full Breakdown

Dayton's Zoning Code defines an "Electronic Off-Premise Sign" as an off-premise sign that can be electronically changed by remote or automatic means, including video-display, LED, or animated displays. At a single location, only one multiple-message advertising device or electronic off-premise sign panel is permitted to face the same direction. Illuminated off-premise signs, including changeable-copy signs, are allowed only if they do not interfere with traffic safety, cause glare, or obscure a traffic signal. Off-premise signs are further limited to specific zoning districts and must meet area, height, setback and spacing schedules under §§150.925.4-.13.

Violations & Fines

Zoning Administrator issues a notice of violation; noncompliance draws a civil penalty up to $1,000 per day under R.C.G.O. §150.130.7, plus possible stop-work order or permit revocation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are digital billboards allowed in Dayton?
Yes, but as "electronic off-premise signs" they're capped at one panel per direction per location and must not impair traffic safety or glare.
Does this cover on-premise business signs?
No: this provision governs off-premise (billboard) signs; on-premise electronic signage is regulated separately under §150.900.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Dayton

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