Springfield, MA Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)

Section 9.9.30 of the Springfield, Massachusetts (Hampden County) Zoning Ordinance sets the rules for digital non-accessory signs -- freestanding electronic billboards not attached to the business they advertise. Under Section 9.9.31, a digital sign needs a Tier 3 special permit from the City Council and can only be sited in a Business B or Industrial A district. Section 9.9.32 keeps them away from schools, parks, historic resources and residential districts within 500 feet, and bars flashing, moving or video content. Message changes must take one second or less, each message must hold for at least ten seconds, and automatic dimming must keep brightness from exceeding 0.3 foot candles over ambient light levels.