Independence, MO Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum scene display time
- 8 seconds
- Illumination intensity set by
- Community Development Director
- Applies in addition to
- general billboard rules
- Intensity decision appeal
- to City Council
Summary
Independence requires digital billboard displays to hold each scene for at least eight seconds and lets the Community Development Director set and adjust illumination intensity after installation.
Digital billboards may utilize the multiple advertisement display format that allows the digital sign face to change, immediately, from one scene or advertisement to another. Each scene or advertisement shall be displayed for a minimum of eight seconds before changing to another so as not to simulate a moving display. Digital billboard intensity of illumination shall be established by the Director at the time of installation and may be adjusted periodically at the Director's request.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 13).
Full Breakdown
Digital electronic billboards in Independence must follow the general billboard rules of UDO § 14-406 plus added standards: the sign face may change scenes immediately, but each scene or advertisement must display for a minimum of eight seconds so the sign doesn't simulate a moving display. The Director sets the digital billboard's illumination intensity at installation and may periodically adjust it so it doesn't interfere with adjacent uses or impair a driver's vision. The Director's intensity decision can be appealed to the City Council with supporting documentation.
Violations & Fines
Changing scenes faster than the eight-second minimum, or running illumination beyond the intensity the Director has set, violates § 14-406-05 and can be enforced under the City's sign permitting authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can a digital billboard in Independence, Missouri change ads?
Who sets how bright a digital billboard can be in Independence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Independence
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