Fountain Valley, CA Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)

Fountain Valley Municipal Code § 21.24.110 lists the sign types that are prohibited in all zoning districts unless a more specific provision of the sign chapter authorizes them. Item (5) is billboards. Item (6) is changeable copy signs, except at land uses characterized by human assembly and periodically changing programs, and the code names theaters, concert halls, convention facilities and places of worship. Item (7) is electronic reader board signs, electronic message centers and changeable electronic variable message signs. Item (12) adds off-site commercial advertising signs.

The definitions in § 21.24.060 close the loopholes. A billboard is a permanent structure sign that is used for off-site commercial messages, used for general advertising for hire, not an accessory to a principal use on the same parcel, or a profit center on its own. An electronic message center is a sign whose image is formed by selectively illuminating an array of bulbs, LEDs or LCDs that can be changed electronically. The code says it applies whether the sign shows a single image, a series of still images or full motion, and that digital signs, CEVMS and functionally equivalent technologies are all within the definition. Signs inside an area controlled by a master sign program or specific plan that advertise establishments in that same area are not billboards.

The one digital carve-out is narrow. Under § 21.24.080(i), a service station monument sign can incorporate a digital or changeable copy LED fuel price sign subject to sign committee review, strictly for price adjustments, and it cannot scroll, blink, flash or travel across the face of the sign. Under § 21.24.080(d), freeway monument signs cannot be used as general advertising for hire.