What to know about LED video walls in Peoria
Electronic message centers only where the code allows
Peoria prohibits changeable-copy signs, including electronic ones, except where the sign code specifically allows them. Electronic message centers can be used for permanent signs where changeable copy is permitted, such as drive-through signs and gas station monuments.
Exposed LED signs are capped at 0.3 foot-candles
Signs with exposed LED lighting are limited to 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light. Other internally lit signs are limited to 0.6. That limit shapes brightness settings on any wall that counts as a sign.
A screen near the glass may be a window sign
Peoria defines a window sign as one placed on or within 3 feet of a window to attract people outside. Window signs need no permit but can cover at most 25% of the window area on one side of a building. The code doesn't say whether an indoor LED screen counts, so the city sign reviewer should answer that before you install.
Lit signs near homes go dark at night
In residential zoning districts, lit signs for non-residential uses within 200 feet of homes must go dark from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. or when the business is closed. Roof-mounted signs are prohibited.
Pixel pitch and viewing distance
Pixel pitch is the distance between LEDs, in millimeters. A finer pitch looks sharper up close and costs more. A lobby wall viewed from six feet needs a finer pitch than a stage backdrop viewed from the back of a room.
A common rule of thumb is about 8 to 10 feet of viewing distance for each millimeter of pitch. We pick the pitch from your real viewing distance and the content you will show.
Indoor, outdoor and curved walls
Indoor panels are tuned for close viewing and moderate brightness. Outdoor panels are sealed against dust and rain, and bright enough for Arizona sun. Panels can also be built into curves and corners for bars, clubs and stages.
The wall's structure matters as much as the panels. We check the wall or frame that will carry the weight, the power circuit, the ventilation and the service access before the quote.
Is your wall a sign in Peoria?
Our first question is whether anyone outside can see the screen. A wall in a lobby or club is one case. A wall facing a parking lot or street is another, and it falls under Ordinance 2025-01, the sign code Peoria adopted January 14, 2025.
When a wall faces out, we look at the sign code, the brightness cap and the window rules together, and we ask the city before you buy. Permanent signs such as wall, canopy and monument signs need a sign permit. The city's number is (623) 773-7000.
Content and control
An LED wall is only as good as what it shows. We set up playback so staff can switch between a loop, a live source and a game from a simple panel. Content can be updated from a laptop. Brightness can follow a schedule, dimmer at night, which also helps with Peoria's lighting limits.
Structure first, then panels
- Measure the wall, check structure and power, and find the viewing distances.
- Settle pitch, size, processor and mounting, with a quote.
- Build structure and power first, then hang panels after hours.
- Calibrate, set up content and train your staff.
- Service is Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.
What LED walls pair with
Walls pair with digital signage for menus and specials, commercial audio for the room and AV control so one panel runs it all. More is on the Enzo in Peoria page.
