Beaumont Rethinks Its Ban On Digital Billboards

BEAUMONT, CA — Digital billboards are currently banned in Beaumont with rare exceptions, but city officials are reconsidering the prohibition.

On Wednesday, the Beaumont Planning Commission will mull whether the city should pivot away from its ban and adopt regulations allowing digital billboards in designated areas.

The review follows direction from the City Council in late 2025 for staff to explore whether the community should permit the electronic signs.

As a starting point, the city conducted a survey from Dec. 29, 2025, to Feb. 18, 2026, to gather public feedback. Of the 177 responses received, many residents voiced opposition to the digital billboard concept, citing concerns over driver distraction and nighttime light pollution.

A public workshop on April 22, 2026, summarized the feedback, reviewed digital billboard technology, and presented potential regulatory options. Following the workshop, the Planning Commission directed city staff to draft an ordinance permitting digital billboards along regional corridors, specifically Interstate 10 and state Route 60.

The draft ordinance includes strict operational controls, sign-spacing requirements, height limits, lighting regulations, and options for development agreements or revenue sharing. It also incorporates "takedown ratios," requiring the removal of three static billboard faces for every new digital face installed.

"If approved, the proposed ordinance would provide a predictable regulatory framework, reduce visual clutter, maintain safety, and preserve scenic vistas while supporting economic development opportunities," city staff wrote in meeting documents.

During Wednesday's 6 p.m. meeting, commissioners will decide whether to recommend that the City Council adopt the proposed ordinance.

The public meeting will take place at City Hall, 550 E. Sixth St. Click here to view the full Planning Commission meeting agenda.