Electronic Message Center Permits - Long Beach

Signs and Advertising California 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of California

Long Beach, California requires permits for most new or modified commercial signs, including electronic message centers (EMCs). This guide explains when an EMC permit is required, who enforces the rules, how to apply, and what to expect during review. Refer to the city sign guidance and the municipal code for current standards and definitions: Long Beach Signs & Sign Permits[1] and the municipal code for sign regulations (municipal code)[2]. For complaints or compliance inspections contact Development Services - Code Enforcement Code Enforcement[3].

Apply for a sign permit before installing or activating an electronic message center.

What is an electronic message center (EMC)?

An EMC is a sign face that displays electronic text or images that can change periodically. EMCs are commonly used for fuel price boards, business message boards, and community information signs. Local rules often limit brightness, animation, dwell times, and placement to reduce distraction and light spill.

When a permit is required

  • New signs or changes to sign faces generally require a sign permit from Long Beach Development Services.
  • Changing a static face to an EMC is typically considered an alteration and triggers permit review.
  • Temporary event messaging may be exempt; check the city guidance for allowed durations and conditions.

Permit review criteria

  • Compliance with zoning district sign standards (size, height, location).
  • Standards for electronic characteristics: brightness limits, animation, and transition times where specified.
  • Visual compatibility with building and streetscape and avoidance of traffic distraction.
Municipal guidance and code together determine whether a specific EMC design is allowed.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by Long Beach Development Services, Code Enforcement, and Building & Safety as applicable. The city may require removal or modification of noncompliant signs and may issue citations or administrative actions for violations. Specific monetary penalties and escalation steps are not specified on the cited pages and should be confirmed with the enforcing office below.[2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited pages; see the municipal code and contact Code Enforcement for current penalties.[2]
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence procedures are not specified on the cited pages.[2]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove or alter signs, stop-work orders, and potential court actions are authorized by enforcement staff (details not specified on the cited pages).[2]
  • Inspection & complaints: report suspected violations to Development Services - Code Enforcement via the city contact page.[3]
  • Appeals/review: specific appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited pages; contact the enforcing department for appeal procedures.[2]
If you receive a notice about a sign, contact Code Enforcement immediately to learn appeal deadlines.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes sign permit guidance and application instructions on the Development Services planning pages. The exact application form name or number is not specified on the cited sign guidance page; applicants should use the sign permit instructions and checklists provided by Development Services.[1]

  • How to submit: follow the Development Services sign permit submission process listed on the city planning pages; electronic submittal or in-person options are described there.[1]
  • Fees: specific sign permit fees are not specified on the cited sign guidance page; fee schedules are available through Development Services permit fee pages.
Confirm required drawings and electrical permits before submitting a sign permit application.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to change a static sign to an electronic message center?
Yes. Alterations that change materials or electronic function typically require a sign permit; confirm requirements on the city sign permit page.[1]
How long does review usually take?
Review times vary by complexity and completeness of the application; the city planning pages provide guidance but do not list a guaranteed timeline.
Are animated or video displays allowed?
Rules on animation and video content are set in sign standards; check the sign guidance and municipal code for specific prohibitions or limits.[2]

How-To

  1. Check the Long Beach sign guidance and municipal code to confirm whether your proposed EMC is allowed and which standards apply.[1]
  2. Prepare drawings, electrical plans, and a site plan showing sign location relative to property lines and right-of-way.
  3. Complete the sign permit application and submit per Development Services instructions; include any required fees and documentation.[1]
  4. If approved, obtain any required electrical or building permits and schedule inspections during installation.
  5. If you receive a violation notice, contact Code Enforcement immediately to learn about appeal options and timelines.[3]

Key Takeaways

  • Most EMCs require a sign permit from Development Services.
  • Follow municipal standards for brightness, animation, and siting to avoid compliance actions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Long Beach Development Services - Signs & Sign Permits
  2. [2] Long Beach Municipal Code - Signs (Municode)
  3. [3] Development Services - Code Enforcement

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