Santa Monica Urging Businesses to Follow Sign Code

Neon signs, animated signs, signs on posts and commercial banners — all may be in violation of the Santa Monica sign code.

Businesses in commercial districts began receiving city letters and flyers this week informing them which signs do and don't comply with Santa Monica's strict sign requirements.

The campaign is in advance of enforcement to reduce violations and complaints, the city said in a press release.

"Significant noncompliance to the City sign ordinance can cause blight in the City's commercial districts and impact the overall quality of life," the release states. "Maintaining visual aesthetics is important to our community and helps to keep Santa Monica vibrant and attractive."

Through the outreach effort, businesses will learn about the types of signs, heights and placements that are allowed.

"In the next few months, we will be focusing on unpermitted and prohibited signage, particularly window and internally illuminated signs," said Joe Trujillo, code compliance manager.

"We look to educate residents and businesses about the requirements of the City's laws and regulations before we enforce them," he said.

Businesses or landowners who want to find out if their signs have permits or require permits can call the City Planning Division at 310-458-8341 or the Code Compliance Division at 310-458-4984.

More information is also available on the city's website. Click on "Economic Development," "Permits and Licenses" and "Sign Guidance for Santa Monica Businesses." The flyer is also attached as a PDF in our photos above.

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