Columbus, OH Sign Regulations: Freeway-Facing Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Right-of-way signs
- Prohibited outright, removed without notice
- On-premises setback
- Allowed within 660 ft, no flashing/movement
- Off-premises setback
- Barred within 660 ft if visible from Interstate
- State overlay
- Also subject to ORC Chapter 5516
- Enforcing office
- Director, Building and Zoning Services
Summary
Columbus bars signs in or overhanging Interstate System right-of-way and sets a 660-foot line for both on-premises and off-premises signs.
D.A permanent on-premises sign may be erected within 660 feet of any interstate system right-of-way line in conformance with this Graphics Code. No mechanical movement, automatic changeable copy, or flashing lights or other special effect shall be utilized.E.Temporary on-premises signs may be displayed along Interstate System frontages. Such signs shall be subject to all standards pertaining to temporary signs in the underlying zoning district of the subject property.F.An off-premises sign may be erected in conformance with this Graphics Code, provided that no off-premises sign shall be located within 660 feet of any Interstate System right-of-way line, which can be perceived at any time by the operator of a motor vehicle proceeding in any lawful direction within the Interstate System. (Ord. 2837-96 § 7; Ord. No. 0170-2014, § 11, 7-28-2014; Ord. No. 1200-2017, § 40, 6-12-2017; Ord. No. 2111-2024, § 1(Att.), 7-29-2024)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 85 | Form Based Code: ?).
Full Breakdown
Columbus City Codes § 3379.01 governs signs along the Interstate System citywide under Title 33's Graphics Code. No sign may sit within or overhang Interstate right-of-way, obstruct a driver's vision, or violate Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5516. On-premises signs are allowed within 660 feet of the right-of-way line but may not use mechanical movement, automatic changeable copy, or flashing lights. Off-premises signs (including billboards) are barred within 660 feet of the right-of-way line if visible to a driver on the Interstate. Violations bring removal orders from the director of the Department of Building and Zoning Services, and signs within the right-of-way itself can be removed without notice.
Violations & Fines
Director issues removal, alteration, or relocation orders; signs within the Interstate right-of-way are removed without notice, plus legal enforcement proceedings under Graphics Code § 3381.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put an illuminated sign near I-70 or I-71 in Columbus?
Can a billboard face the Interstate within 660 feet?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Columbus
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