OOH glossary · Operations
Spacing rule
A spacing rule sets the minimum distance between billboards on the same side of a road.
Federal law lets each state agree with FHWA on spacing, size and lighting, based on customary use. So the distance changes by state, and cities often add their own.
Scenic America keeps a state table. The rows we checked were updated between 2008 and 2018. It lists 1,000 feet on Tennessee highways and 500 feet in Georgia. Texas and Florida list 1,500 feet.
Spacing is why new permits are scarce near busy roads. A good site can be blocked by a board a few hundred feet away.
Rules change, so check your state DOT’s current rules. This is a summary, not legal advice.