Regardless of where you are located, there is likely a governing body that controls the type, location and size of sign permissible. In advance of designing a sign for your company or event, it’s best to check local governing ordinance, even for temporary signage.
To save time, frustration and money, check city ordinance related to signage in advance of any relevant design or planning. Review of local ordinance may seem daunting at first, but the time it takes to find applicable regulations is a solid investment. Some tips may help you quickly find regulations for your specific need.
Determine the governing body responsible for sign ordinance. Typically there will be a city or county body responsible for governance. A search online can save you a lot of time and energy. In Mission Viejo, CA for example, detail on code enforcement is publicly available on the city’s website.
Determine the type of sign needed and the relevant industry. For example, signage regulations may vary depending on the type: Commercial Real Estate, Construction, Subdivision Sales and so on.
Determine if the sign will be permanent or temporary. If your sign will be temporary, check applicable regulations on duration and type. For example, Mission Viejo restricts temporary promotional signs may only be used for 3 events for year, no more than 24 square feet, and displayed for no more than 42 days per calendar year. Balloons and flags are restricted, only banners or poster type signs can be used. Neon, day-glow and fluorescent colors are restricted unless part of a registered trademark.
Seasonal banners may require the review and approval of the city’s director of community development, in consultation with the planning commission’s design review committee and subject to applicable restrictions.
Determine if permits are required as this can add significantly to both the cost and time needed before your sign is installed.
In Mission Viejo, the relevant code is documented in “Chapter 9.29 Division 1 – Sign Standards”, published at: http://cityofmissionviejo.org/DepartmentPage.aspx?id=96,
under “Sign Standards”.
For more information, contact:
Spectrum Signs
23382 Madero Suite L
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
(949) 297-3800
