SDMC §142.1201 et seq. (Sign Regulations) generally bans new off-premises billboards and prohibits digital changeable-message billboards in most zones, with narrow allowances only for certain commercial corridors and freeway-facing approvals.
Under SDMC §142.1201 et seq., the city's sign code prohibits new off-premises (billboard) signs citywide, continuing the 1970s billboard moratorium. Digital changeable-message displays are barred in residential, coastal, and most commercial zones. Limited digital on-premises signs are allowed in industrial and highway-commercial zones with operator permits, minimum dwell times of 8+ seconds, brightness caps measured in nits, and no animation, scrolling, or video. California Outdoor Advertising Act (Bus. & Prof. Code §5200 et seq.) imposes additional Caltrans review along state highways and freeways. Existing billboards may continue as legal nonconforming uses without conversion to digital.
Unpermitted digital billboards trigger civil penalties up to $2,500 per day, mandatory removal at owner cost, and possible misdemeanor charges. Caltrans concurrently revokes Outdoor Advertising Act permits along state highways for nonconforming displays.
See how San Diego's digital billboards rules stack up against other locations.
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