Sign Permit Exemptions

A sign permit is not required for the following on private property. Please review the Sign Ordinance for definitions and specific requirements.

  • Temporary signs
  • For sale, for lease or contractor identification signs
  • Open house signs
  • Directional signs in manufacturing zones
  • Exempt signs:
o Memorial tablet having sign area of four square feet or less;
o Sign identifying a mailbox which does not exceed 60 square inches in sign area;
o Sign identifying a residence on nearby private roads not exceeding 120 square inches for each residence;

o Sign having a display area not exceeding two square feet and intended solely for the information, safety, direction or convenience of the public, rather than the advertisement of goods and services, including a sign which indicates days, hours, emergency telephone number, street address, and/or credit card honored; membership in civic, business or professional organizations; or which direct customers where to park, which identify restrooms, or which locate a public telephone or freight entrance. The aggregate display area of all such signs related to a single occupancy which can conveniently be seen from outside the premises may not exceed 10 square feet, unless the planner finds that a greater area is required for the safety or convenience of the public; and

o Sign placed by a public utility showing the location of underground facilities; and
o Sign advertising a community event of general public interest which does not exceed in the aggregate for all events five square feet of sign area per premises; and
o Theatre marquee sign, which may utilize changeable lettering, which does not exceed in height the roof line or parapet of the building, or 18 feet, whichever is higher; and
o Sign which is an integral and appropriate part of a window merchandising display; provided, that the sign:
1. Advertises or relates to goods or services offered on the premises,
2. Is not painted on or affixed to an outside window,
3. Does not contain the name of the business on the premises;

o Temporary sign required to be maintained by law or governmental order, rule or regulation, and for the safety of persons, preservation of property, or the convenience of the public and authorized in accordance with the regulations of the planning commission.