Grand Rapids, MI Sign Regulations: Freeway-Facing Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Zone coverage
- I-196, I-96, US-131 frontage
- Upgrade currency
- credits from removing other billboards
- Height increase cost
- 2 removal credits per 5 ft
- New support structure cost
- 3 removal credits
Summary
Grand Rapids designates an Upgrade Eligibility Zone for off-premises signs aimed at drivers on I-196, I-96, and US-131, letting owners earn credits toward limited upgrades.
The Upgrade Eligibility Zone consists of existing off-premises signs and support structures in any Zone District that are oriented so that motorists traveling on I-196, I-96, or US-131 are the intended audience. All off-premises signs and support structures included in the Upgrade Eligibility Zone are listed in the current Upgrade Eligibility Zone Table maintained and kept current by the Planning Department.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 70).
Full Breakdown
The Zoning Ordinance's Billboard Exchange Program creates an Upgrade Eligibility Zone covering existing off-premises signs and support structures in any Zone District that are oriented so that motorists traveling on I-196, I-96, or US-131 are the intended audience. Eligible signs are listed on a current Upgrade Eligibility Zone Table the Planning Department maintains. Owners who voluntarily remove other nonconforming billboards earn removal credits that can be applied toward physical upgrades, larger sign faces, added faces, height increases up to 5 additional feet, new support structures, or conversion to digital display, on signs remaining within the freeway-facing zone.
Violations & Fines
Upgrading a freeway-facing billboard's size, height, or structure without first banking sign-removal credits through the program, or exceeding the credit requirements in Table 5.15.03.I.3.c.v, is a zoning violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a billboard facing the freeway in Grand Rapids be made bigger or taller?
What freeways define the Upgrade Eligibility Zone?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Grand Rapids
Compare Grand Rapids to another location·View the Michigan sign regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Freeway-Facing Signs in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Kent County handle freeway-facing signs.