Lakewood, CO Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)
Key Facts
- Min. frontage required
- 180 linear feet
- Copy change rate
- Once per 8 seconds
- Flashing/blinking/strobing
- Prohibited
- Off-premise billboards
- Prohibited citywide
Summary
Lakewood's zoning code allows on-site electronic message signs on larger lots but caps copy changes to once every 8 seconds and bans flashing, blinking, or strobing effects.
B. Electronic Message signs are permitted for properties with 180 linear feet of street frontage or more.
C. Multiple properties may form a Zone Lot and apply for an Electronic Message sign provided the dimensional standards are satisfied. For information about Zone Lots, see Section 17.9.2.9 of this Zoning Ordinance.
D. Electronic Message signs may be incorporated into freestanding signs but may not be incorporated into Major Tenant signs.
E. The maximum height of an Electronic Message sign shall not exceed the maximum height of the corresponding sign type allowed for the zone district.
F. Changeable copy signs with manual letters and numerals may be used in-place of Electronic Message signs.
G. The text display of the message shall not change more frequently than once per eight seconds. Each message shall transition to the next message instantaneously.
H. Electronic Message signs shall not flash, rotate, scintillate, blink, or strobe illumination when transitioning between messages.
I. The pitch resolution of the Electronic Message sign shall comply with the dimensional standards listed in the table above. See Figure 17.9.15 below for pitch resolution measurement.
Full Breakdown
The Zoning Ordinance regulates digital signage as 'Electronic Message Signs' under §17.9.4.3.D and Table 17.9.11. They're permitted only on properties with 180 linear feet of street frontage or more, capped at 50-75% of the allowable sign face depending on use and building size, and must meet a minimum pitch resolution. Copy can change no more than once every eight seconds, each transition must be instantaneous, and the signs may not flash, rotate, scintillate, blink, or strobe. Off-premise billboards are separately prohibited citywide unless approved through a Comprehensive Sign Plan or Official Development Plan.
Violations & Fines
An electronic message sign that flashes, blinks, or changes copy faster than every 8 seconds violates §17.9.4.3.D and can be cited by Lakewood code enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are freestanding digital billboards allowed in Lakewood?
How fast can a Lakewood digital sign change its message?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lakewood
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