Topeka, KS Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)

Topeka Municipal Code § 18.10.160 allows electronic message center (EMC) signs only in the RR, R, M, O&I, C, I, U-1, MS-1 and X districts, and only where the underlying sign type is otherwise allowed. EMCs must use automatic dimming so brightness never exceeds 0.3 foot-candle above ambient light, measured with a calibrated foot-candle meter. Flashing, strobing, blinking, scrolling and similar animated effects are prohibited outright, with a narrow exception for EMCs in the I, C-2, C-3, C-4 or C-5 districts located more than 125 feet from a residential or open space district. Most commercial-district EMCs must hold each static image at least four seconds; EMCs on nonresidential signs in residential districts must hold images at least eight seconds. Audio is banned entirely, and no sign permit issues until the manufacturer certifies the sign can technically comply.