Stafford Township, NJ Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)

Digital LED billboards are regulated in § 211-35P(12) as multiple message signs. The P(3) definition splits them into Type A (signs on the same lot as the business they advertise), Type B (sections that turn and stop or flip) and Type C (multi-message digital LED displays). Types B and C are the billboard-scale signs.

Where. Under P(12)(i), multiple message signs are permitted only on the southerly side of Route 72 between the Garden State Parkway and US Highway Route 9. Under P(12)(o), no sign can be located closer than 100 feet, measured to the exterior of the support, to the nearest residential zone. Under P(12)(p), signs are permitted without a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment only where an existing sign has been in existence for a period not less than five years.

Structure. Types B and C go only on supporting steel posts. The bottom of the sign is at least 20 feet above grade, the sign cannot exceed 14 feet in height by 48 feet in width, its maximum height is 50 feet above grade, and the edge closest to the highway can be no closer to the highway than 25 feet (P(12)(b)). Signs with advertising facing the same direction need 3,000 feet between them (P(12)(h)).

Message timing. A Type C message stays fixed for at least eight seconds and the change takes one second or less (P(12)(d)). A Type B message stays fixed for at least four seconds (P(12)(c)). No image can move or appear to move, no flashing, intermittent or moving light is allowed, and every sign needs a default design that freezes the advertisement in one position if a malfunction occurs (P(12)(e) to (g)).

Light and state rule. All types are shielded so light is not directed at any portion of the main traveled way, and they cannot glare or impair the operation of a motor vehicle (P(12)(j)). Where N.J.A.C. 16:41C-8.8 is more restrictive, it governs (P(12)(k)).

Public service. Every sign carries Stafford Township municipal announcements, weather emergency announcements, Megan's Law announcements, FBI most wanted list announcements and forest fire warning announcements (P(12)(l)). Municipal announcements run on a space-available basis approximately four to eight seconds per minute, and not less than an average four seconds per minute in any twenty-four-hour period (P(12)(m)).