Billboards to Be Switched Off Between 7 AM & 5 PM

New regulations are being introduced to limit the use of illuminated advertising signs on public roads, as part of broader measures aimed at reducing energy consumption.

The rules, issued by the National Agency for Public Road Advertising Regulation, require all illuminated signage, including digital screens, backlit billboards, and shopfront displays, to be switched off between 7 am and 5 pm.

Exemptions apply to signs equipped with automatic dimming sensors, which must reduce brightness to no more than 37.5% during the day and 4% at night.

These limits mark a reduction from previous maximum levels of 75% during the day and 8% at night, with dimming required to occur automatically. Additional restrictions prohibit lighting on internal and main roads between midnight and 5 am.

Areas designated as tourist zones by the cabinet are exempt from these overnight limits. All advertising units are required to use high-efficiency LED lighting and be connected to automated timers or light sensors.

Supporting systems for digital screens, including cooling and air conditioning equipment, must also comply with energy-efficiency standards.

Operators who fail to meet the new requirements or violate restricted hours face legal and administrative penalties under existing regulations.