Signage Permits & Regulations Overview

Why Regulations Matter

Signage regulations exist to maintain community aesthetics, ensure safety, and provide accessibility. Installing non-compliant signage can result in fines, forced removal, and project delays. Understanding local codes early in the design process saves time and money.

Common Permit Requirements

• Building-mounted signs

  Check the applicable sign ordinance, property sign program, and permit requirements before attaching signage to a facade.

• Freestanding/monument signs

  Height, setback, and size restrictions vary widely by zone.

• Illuminated signs

  Often have additional electrical permit requirements and brightness restrictions.

• Temporary signs

  Banners, A-frames, and promotional signs may have duration limits and permit exemptions.

• Vehicle wraps

  Confirm any vehicle, parking, or advertising restrictions that apply to your intended use and location.

Common Restrictions

• Size limits

  Maximum square footage often tied to building frontage or lot size.

• Height restrictions

  Confirm the height limit for the specific zone, property, and sign type; there is no single limit for all locations.

• Setback requirements

  Minimum distance from property lines, streets, and other structures.

• Quantity limits

  Number of signs per business or per street frontage.

• Content restrictions

  Some areas prohibit certain imagery or require business identification.

ADA Signage Requirements

• Sign purpose

  Permanent room identification, directional signs, and informational signs have different visual and tactile requirements. Check the applicable sign category and exceptions.

• Characters and finish

  Review character size, style, spacing, contrast, non-glare finish, and Braille requirements in the Access Board guidance linked below.

• Pictograms

  Pictograms identifying permanent rooms or spaces have field-size and tactile text-descriptor requirements; not every pictogram is treated the same way.

• Mounting location

  Tactile character baselines generally fall within 48–60 inches above the floor. Door location, clear floor space, and applicable exceptions must also be checked.

Working Through the Process

• Research early

  Contact your city's planning department before finalizing designs.

• Get it in writing

  Verbal approvals don't protect you. Get written confirmation.

• Consider variances

  If your design doesn't meet code, a variance may be possible with justification.

• Work with professionals

  Experienced sign companies navigate permits regularly and can streamline the process.

Official Sources & Further Reading

• City of Irvine: Sign Permit requirements
• U.S. Access Board: ADA guide to signs