RALEIGH, N.C., Oct. 23, 2025 — In a significant victory for community character, roadway safety, and environmental protection, the Raleigh City Council denied a request from a giant in the outdoor advertising industry to advance a text change that would have opened the door to digital billboards across the city. The city council’s decision came after strong public opposition and targeted advocacy from Scenic America, which mobilized residents, local partners, and policymakers to urge the Council to reject the proposal.

The billboard company’s proposed text change would have weakened Raleigh’s longstanding billboard ordinance and allowed static billboards to be converted to digital LED screens — increasing light pollution, driver distraction, and visual blight. The proposal would also have expanded the areas and zoning districts where billboards can be placed, and it would have increased the allowed size and height of billboard signs. Scenic America submitted a detailed letter to City Council outlining the economic, environmental, and public‑safety harms of digital billboards and the long‑term risks of ceding local control to the outdoor advertising industry.

“Raleigh has worked hard to protect its visual identity, quality of life, and economic vitality,” said Scenic America President Mark Falzone. “Digital billboards would undermine public safety, drive down property values, and erode the scenic character that residents value. We applaud the City Council for listening to the public and rejecting this industry‑driven proposal.”

While this week’s vote represents an important win, the fight is far from over. Billboard industry representatives have already asked to meet with the city attorney, raising concerns that companies may pursue alternative avenues to weaken Raleigh’s protections outside of the public process. Scenic America will continue to monitor developments closely and remain engaged to ensure the city’s scenic character remains protected.