Sign Regulations in Baltimore, MD: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Baltimore or are thinking about moving there, sign regulations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Baltimore has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of sign regulations, and some of them might surprise you.

Political Signs

Baltimore permits political signs on private property with size and placement restrictions. Signs must be removed within 10 days after the election, and placement on public property or rights-of-way is prohibited.

Key details: Permit Required: No permit needed on private property. Size Limit (Residential): Generally 6 sq ft per sign. Removal Deadline: Within 10 days after election. Prohibited Locations: Public rights-of-way, utility poles, public property.

Signs placed in public rights-of-way may be removed by the city without notice. Failure to remove signs after elections may result in citations and fines. Signs obstructing traffic sight lines may be immediately removed.

Garage Sale Signs

Baltimore regulates temporary garage sale signs, allowing them only on private property during the sale period. Signs in public rights-of-way are prohibited and subject to removal.

Key details: Permit Required: No permit for signs on own property. Size Limit: Generally 6 sq ft in residential areas. Removal Deadline: Within 24 hours after sale ends. Prohibited Locations: Public rights-of-way, utility poles, public trees.

Signs placed on public property or in rights-of-way may be removed immediately by the city. Failure to remove signs after the sale may result in a property maintenance citation.

Holiday Displays

Baltimore permits seasonal and holiday displays on private property with minimal regulation. Displays may include lighting and decorations without a permit, though electrical installations must comply with safety codes.

Key details: Permit Required: No permit for residential holiday displays. Electrical Safety: Must use UL-listed outdoor equipment. Obstruction: Must not block sidewalks or sight lines. Time Limits: No specific code limit on display duration.

Displays that obstruct public sidewalks or create safety hazards may be subject to code enforcement. Unsafe electrical installations may be cited under the electrical code with fines.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Baltimore gives residents more flexibility on holiday displays.

The Bottom Line

Baltimore's sign regulations rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Baltimore is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Baltimore's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.