Arlington launches review of sign rules; staff to advertise public hearings for Feb. 2026

The Arlington County Board voted to authorize staff to advertise proposed amendments to the countys sign regulations and related definitions, with public hearings to be scheduled no earlier than February 2026.

Staff described a two-phase review that will evaluate sidewalk signs, temporary/median signs, off-premise advertising, automatic changeable-copy standards, and signage rules for RA (residential) districts and public-right-of-way locations. The review responds to the Countys commercial market resiliency goals and a wide range of public feedback collected during preliminary engagement: about 780 responders expressed varied views on sidewalk signs, while roughly 750 respondents opposed placing temporary signs in medians on safety and clutter grounds.

The Boards authorization starts a formal drafting period and expanded outreach. Staff said the proposed Request to Advertise (RTA) will include options for sidewalk signage that balance accessibility, business needs and pedestrian clear zones; it will also examine signage on county property as a revenue option (buses, concession sites) and whether RA districts should allow building-level signage compatible with mid/high-rise forms.

The Arlington Chamber of Commerce said it welcomed the effort to modernize the ordinance. Staff will return with refined text and an analysis of First Amendment considerations, enforcement mechanics and a schedule for public comments ahead of the February hearing.

What happens next: Staff will continue community engagement, prepare draft ordinance language, consult legal counsel on content-neutral limits (speech-protection concerns), and advertise the public hearings for Planning Commission and County Board review in February 2026.