OOH glossary · Operations
Nonconforming sign
A nonconforming sign was legal when built but no longer meets current rules.
Under federal rules, a nonconforming sign was lawfully put up but no longer meets state law. Rules may have changed, or the area did.
The sign can usually stay. Federal rules allow reasonable repair and upkeep, including a change of ad. But the sign must stay substantially the same.
Bigger changes can end those rights. If a state forces removal of a lawful nonconforming sign, federal law requires just compensation.
This is a summary, not legal advice. Check with your state DOT before you change a board.