Your digital sign is more possible than ever
Colorado Springs is updating its sign code to better reflect modern signage technology, including electronic message centers. The new updates take affect July one and may create new opportunities for businesses and organizations that have been considering digital signage.
You’ve always wanted one let’s make it happen.
Is Your Existing Sign Eligible for an LED Upgrade?
Colorado Springs’ updated sign code may now allow businesses, schools, churches, and organizations with existing onsite signs to upgrade to modern LED digital signage. If you already have a monument sign, freestanding sign, or other permanent exterior sign structure, you could qualify for an LED display upgrade under the new regulations.
Simply upload a photo of your current sign using the form below, and our team will review your existing installation and help determine whether your property may be eligible. This creates a new opportunity to modernize your communication, advertising, and visibility with a high-impact outdoor LED sign.
Colorado Springs LED Sign Permitting FAQs
What do the 2026 Colorado Springs sign code changes mean for my business?
The adoption of Ordinance No. 26-01 updates the city’s Unified Development Code (UDC) to align with modern, content-neutral federal standards. Most notably, it revises the regulations for Electronic Message Centers (EMCs). Commercial properties now have a clear pathway to integrate digital displays, provided they meet strict operational standards, including a minimum 10-second hold time and a maximum 1-second transition time between messages.
Do I need a permit to install an LED sign?
Yes. Adding a digital display requires a Comprehensive Sign Plan approval from the City Planning Department, followed by building and electrical permits from the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD). If you are upgrading an existing freestanding sign to include an EMC, the entire sign structure must be brought into full compliance with current code standards before approval is granted.
How do I calculate my allowable sign square footage?
Your allowable sign area is dictated by your zoning district and building frontage. Commercial zones typically permit 1.5 to 2.0 square feet of sign area per linear foot of exterior building length. Because EMCs are only allowed as part of freestanding signs, the total square footage of the structure will also be capped based on your specific lot size and commercial zoning classification.
What are the setback and distance requirements from the road?
Your sign must maintain specific distances from property lines, utility easements, and the roadway to ensure driver safety and maintain clear sightlines at intersections. Freestanding signs face maximum height restrictions between 6 and 25 feet, depending on the specific zone. Your site plan must accurately map these setback measurements before you submit your electronic application to the PPRBD.
Can I place my sign in the public right-of-way?
No. Private commercial signs cannot be placed within the city-owned public right-of-way (ROW) or state ROW. Placing any structural element in a city ROW requires a specialized Revocable Permit (Code 3.2.217), which is rarely granted for standard commercial signage. Your sign must be installed entirely on your private property, behind the designated property line.
What specific documentation is required for an LED sign permit?
In addition to your PDF site plans, structural engineering documents, and electrical diagrams submitted through the PPRBD portal, Colorado Springs requires official manufacturer documentation. This documentation must verify that your specific EMC model complies with the city’s strict auto-dimming and maximum brightness requirements.
Can I still use temporary banners if I have an LED sign?
No. Under the updated UDC regulations, any property with an approved EMC is prohibited from utilizing temporary signage, such as banners, A-frames, or inflatable displays. The permanent digital sign strictly replaces the need for temporary promotional materials.
How long does the permit approval process take?
The timeline for a sign permit approval through the PPRBD and City Planning typically ranges from 2 to 6 weeks. Initial electronic plan reviews usually take 5 to 10 business days. If revisions are required regarding your site plan, electrical load, or setback measurements, each resubmittal will add 3 to 5 business days to the timeline.
Now is the time!
If you’ve been waiting for the opportunity to upgrade to a modern LED sign, now is the time to get started. Create more visibility for your business, attract attention day and night, and take advantage of the new code changes before demand increases across the Colorado Springs market. Call us at 844-628-3107 and let’s get started on you project today!