Newark, OH Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)

Newark's sign chapter, Chapter 1294, defines a variable message electronic sign in § 1294.01(35) as a sign that changes the message shown on its face by means of an electronic system, including variable message light emitting device and variable message projection systems. The largest individual face available for display at any one time determines the area of the sign.

Section 1294.07(c)(12) sets the core digital rules. A variable message electronic sign proposed within 100 feet of an R-District must be approved by the Board. The operation of all such signs, including those in existence when the code was adopted, cannot show animated or moving video. On-premises variable message projection signs also need Board approval under § 1294.08(a)(2), and so do rear lot variable message projection signs under § 1294.09(e).

For billboards, § 1294.10(a) governs new off-premises signs. They can sit only on lots identified on the off-premises sign map, one per host lot, with a minimum of 1,000 feet between signs measured along the centerline of the right-of-way on both sides. A single side cannot exceed 376 square feet, height cannot exceed thirty feet, the lot needs 100 feet of frontage on a public right-of-way, and a sign can have two opposing faces but not a three-face triangle or four-face box shape. Setbacks are a front minimum of twenty-five feet and maximum of fifty feet, a side minimum of thirty-five feet and a rear minimum of 100 feet. Under subsection (a)(14), an off-premises variable message projection sign must be approved by the Board.

Existing billboards can go digital only with approval. Under § 1294.10(b)(1)B.7, an off-premises sign relocated within the permitted area may be replaced with a variable message electronic sign upon approval of the Board, and § 1294.10(b)(2)B requires Board approval to replace any type of off-premises sign with an electronic one where the map does not permit off-premises signs. Notice by mail to property owners within 200 feet is not required for these approvals. The zoning fee schedule lists $150.00 for an off-premise variable message sign.