Most signs located on private property require a zoning permit. Signs that extend into the public right-of-way (such as over a sidewalk, street, or alley) will also require a right-of-way permit from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure. This applies to signs related to businesses as well.
Political and other noncommercial signs may be displayed on private property in accordance with the following zoning regulations. These signs do not need a zoning permit.
- Signs must be located on private property.
- No signs may be placed in the public right-of-way. This includes tree lawns, median strips, highway entrance and exit ramps, traffic signs and posts, and utility poles.
On residential property:
Political and noncommercial signs are limited to the following types:
- Wall signs
- Window signs
- Ground signs not more than 6 feet above grade, unless mounted to a single pole no taller than 25 feet
- Signs shall be maintained in a clean, orderly, and sightly condition
- Signs shall not be animated, and shall not flash, blink, or fluctuate
- Signs shall not be illuminated
- No sign may be larger than 15 square feet in size
On commercial property:
- Signs shall be placed in/on ground level windows/walls only (except for banners, inflatables, balloons or streamers)
- Signs shall be maintained in a clean, orderly, and sightly condition
- Signs shall not be animated, and shall not flash, blink, or fluctuate
- Signs may be illuminated only from a concealed light source
- Shall be placed only on the business structure (except for banners, inflatables, balloons or streamers)
- For specifics about permitted sizes, please see the zoning code, section 10.10.3
Source: Denver Zoning Code, Section 10.10.3
If you see political or business signage along Alameda Parkway, our “field” at Exposition/Quebec, along Monaco or at Watson’s (private property that does not typically post signage), please notify 311@denvergov.org or phone them at 311. You can ask to remain anonymous with any 311 call which means if the offender asks who turned them in, 311 cannot give your name.