Rockwall, TX Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)
Key Facts
- Max message area
- 200 sq ft
- Minimum dwell time
- 5 seconds
- Message change time
- 2 seconds or less
- Max brightness (day/night)
- 7,500 / 750 nits
- Residential setback
- 150 feet unless shielded
Summary
Rockwall caps changeable electronic message signs at 200 square feet, requires 5-second static dwell time, and sets strict brightness limits.
(2)Size. The CEVM portion of any sign shall be limited to 200 square feet in message area. (3)Dwell time. Messages shall remain static for a minimum period of five seconds. (4)Change of message. Any change of pictures or information on a CEVM sign shall not produce the illusion of blinking, flashing, expanding or contracting shapes, scrolling, rotation or any similar effect of animation.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 25 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Rockwall regulates changeable electronic variable message signs (CEVMS) under Sec. 32-233. Message area is capped at 200 square feet, messages must hold static for at least five seconds, and changes must complete within two seconds with no blinking, flashing, scrolling or animation effects. Brightness is capped at 7,500 nits by day and 750 nits from dusk to dawn, with a light sensor required and factory-set, password-protected limits certified by the manufacturer before a permit issues. Signs must be at least 150 feet from residential districts unless shielded, and must default to a fixed image or black screen on malfunction.
Violations & Fines
Violating CEVMS standards is a sign-code offense subject to permit denial, required correction, or removal at the owner's expense; noncompliant existing signs had 30 days to conform after the 2014 ordinance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a digital sign in Rockwall scroll or flash?
How bright can a Rockwall digital sign be at night?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rockwall
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Rockwall to another location·View the Texas sign regulations overview
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