West Allis, WI Sign Regulations: Digital Billboards (2026)
Key Facts
- Area cap
- 35% of sign face
- Number allowed
- one per lot
- Change frequency
- no faster than every 3 seconds
- Gas station exception
- full area for price display
Summary
West Allis limits electronic message centers and changeable-copy signs to 35% of the sign face, one per lot, and message changes no faster than every three seconds.
The area of changeable copy and electronic message centers shall not exceed thirty-five percent (35%) of the sign face, excepting gas stations for the purpose of displaying price. Number. There shall be only one (1) changeable copy sign or electronic message center on each lot or parcel of land. Design. Changeable copy signs and electronic message centers must be integrated into the freestanding sign or projecting sign for such building or development. Electronic message centers may not change a message or display by an electronic process more frequently than three-second intervals. The sign may be double-faced. Each sign shall be permanently installed or located. Each sign shall be placed in such a manner so as to not interfere with, confuse or present any hazard to traffic.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: ?).
Full Breakdown
West Allis treats digital billboards as 'changeable copy signs and electronic message centers' under the Sign Code. Only one is allowed per lot, and the changeable portion can't exceed 35 percent of the sign face: except gas stations, which may use the full allowance for price displays. The display has to sit in a secondary position to the tenant's name and must be built into an approved freestanding or projecting sign, not stand alone. Electronic message centers also can't change their message or display more than once every three seconds, a rule aimed at curbing driver distraction.
Violations & Fines
Adding a second electronic message center on one lot, exceeding the 35% sign-face allowance, or programming faster than three-second message changes violates the Sign Code and can trigger permit revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big can an electronic message center be in West Allis?
How often can a digital sign change its message?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in West Allis
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