Permits and Regulations for Business Signs in the Bay Area

If you’re opening or upgrading a business in the Bay Area, one of the most important — and often overlooked — steps is making sure your sign meets local permit requirements. Every city has its own regulations about size, placement, lighting, and style. Navigating these rules can feel overwhelming, but getting it right is essential for avoiding costly fines or delays.

Here’s what business owners should know about permits and regulations for signs in the Bay Area.

1. Why Permits Matter

A sign isn’t just decoration — it’s considered a part of the city’s landscape. Permits ensure signs are safe, don’t obstruct views, and maintain a consistent look within the community. Without the proper permit, your city may require you to remove or redo your sign.

2. Common Requirements Across Bay Area Cities

While each city is unique, many regulations cover:

  • Size Limits – Maximum height and width for signs, especially in shopping centers or downtown areas.

  • Placement Rules – Signs often must be set back from sidewalks or property lines.

  • Lighting Restrictions – Some cities regulate brightness, flashing lights, or digital displays.

  • Materials and Design – Certain areas may require specific styles to match historic or neighborhood aesthetics.

3. City-by-City Differences

  • San Francisco – Strict regulations, especially in historic districts. Permits often require design review.

  • Oakland & Richmond – Focus on visibility and safety in busy urban environments.

  • Pleasanton, Dublin & Livermore – Growing communities with modern rules, often friendly to illuminated signs.

  • Hayward, San Leandro & Castro Valley – Typically straightforward permits but require attention to zoning districts.

  • Santa Rosa – Regulations may vary by business corridor, especially downtown vs. suburban areas.

4. The Application Process

Most cities require:

  1. A completed application form

  2. Scaled drawings of the sign design

  3. Details about materials, size, and lighting

  4. Installation plans (who will build and install the sign)

  5. Payment of city fees

Approval times can range from a few days to several weeks depending on the city.

5. How Johnston Signs Helps

The good news? You don’t have to figure this out on your own. At Johnston Signs, we’ve worked with permit offices across the Bay Area. We know the process, the paperwork, and the details cities care about most. We’ll guide you from design to installation while handling the compliance side — so you can focus on running your business.

Get Your Sign Approved the First Time

From San Francisco to Santa Rosa, Oakland to Livermore, Johnston Signs has the local expertise to create signs that not only look great but also meet all permit requirements.

📞 Contact us today for a free quote and let’s design a sign that’s fully compliant and ready to attract customers.

Clint Johnston