Houston Code Chapter 46 sign code prohibits new off-premise digital billboards citywide. On-premise digital signs face brightness, dwell-time, and proximity limits enforced by the Sign Administration division.
Houston's Chapter 46 sign code, codified after 1980 anti-billboard reforms led by Mayor Kathy Whitmire, bars new off-premise outdoor advertising including digital billboards. Existing legal nonconforming billboards may remain but cannot be converted to digital displays without grandfather waivers, which the city has consistently denied. On-premise digital signs (those advertising the business at the location) are allowed under brightness caps (typically 0.3 foot-candles above ambient at property line), minimum 8-second dwell times, no animation or full-motion video, and setbacks from residential zones. The ordinance has survived multiple First Amendment challenges. Sign Administration enforces violations.
Daily civil penalties up to 1,000 dollars per day, removal orders, and Class C misdemeanor citations. Continuing violations can result in receiver-controlled removal at owner expense.
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