We’re not against digital signs on our public school grounds, we are asking our elected leaders for reasonable regulations in the name of public safety and preserving our neighborhoods.
– John Hara, President, Scenic Nevada
Hello, Reno neighbors. This past Wednesday, May 21, the City Council approved school digital sign regulations in a 4-2 vote, ignoring recommendations from the city’s Planning Commission and some 60 letters from Reno residents expressing concerns about the unprecedented introduction of public and private schools’ digital signs into residential neighborhoods.
But this vote was a first reading, and there’s still time to tell the council how you feel. The Title 18 text amendment related to sign regulations will be discussed again during the Reno City Council’s June 4th agenda for possible ordinance adoption. Please take action.
Send the Reno City Council your thoughts about this issue.
Public Comment Form
Register to attend the June 4th City Council meeting via Zoom and also ask questions.
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NNbp1psbToGb76bh3_1fOQ#/registration
Many of you have shared our concerns about digital signs in neighborhoods: the height, the eight-second flip time, more than one sign for some schools, and the fact that they could operate until 10 at night, 365 days a year – even when school isn’t in session.
“If the signs are for school information, they should be restricted to being active only during school hours.” – Leah Sanders, Scenic Nevada
Most importantly, we agree with those Reno Planning Commissioners who are concerned about distracted drivers in congested areas such as school zones and near school crosswalks. Washoe County School District’s primary concern should be public safety, instead of the eight-second flip times, which studies have proven to be distracting to drivers.
It’s clear that Reno needs to find the balance between effective communication, neighborhood aesthetics, and public safety. We think our suggestions for more restrictions, like a 15-minute flip time, operating hours from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. only when school is in session, and one sign per campus with a maximum height of six feet, are necessary to provide that balance. What are your thoughts on these new sign regulations?
We’d love to hear from you in the comments below or on our Facebook Page or Group.
Read more in THIS IS RENO: https://thisisreno.com/2025/05/digital-signs-reno-city-council/
Reno City Council Meeting – 5/21/25 – Digital Signs at Public School Properties -first reading.