Virginia Beach, VA Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)

Section 212(m) of the City Zoning Ordinance prohibits electronic display signs throughout Virginia Beach "except as expressly allowed by the city council in conjunction with major entertainment venues or as otherwise provided in this ordinance." The only carve-outs in the code are Section 217, which lets automobile service stations run small electronic displays (max 12 square feet, three panels, no scrolling or flashing) on a conditional use permit, and Section 218, which requires City Council approval of a sign plan, an $800 application fee, and Planning Commission review before any major entertainment or major retail venue can add electronic signage, and even then, major retail venues are barred from electronic displays entirely.