Burbank's Sign Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles sign regulations a little differently. In Burbank, California, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Garage Sale Signs

Signs for garage sales must comply with Burbank's sign regulations. Temporary signs on public right-of-way are generally prohibited. Signs should be placed on the property hosting the sale and removed promptly after the event.

Key details: Placement: On sale property only. Public ROW: Prohibited. Removal: Must remove after sale. Code: BMC sign regulations.

Signs on utility poles: removal and fine $25 to $50. Signs not removed after sale: fine $25 per day. Excessive signs: warning, then citation.

Holiday Displays

Holiday displays on private residential property are generally permitted in Burbank. Displays should not create traffic hazards or violate noise ordinances. Excessive lighting may be subject to neighbor complaints.

Key details: Status: Permitted on private property. Restrictions: No traffic hazards. Noise: Standard noise rules apply. Duration: Seasonal; remove after holiday.

Obstruction of sidewalk or road: notice to correct. Electrical hazard: fire department may require removal. Excessive noise: noise ordinance enforcement. Displays left up past deadline: HOA fines possible.

Burbank is more permissive than most cities when it comes to holiday displays. That said, there are still limits.

Political Signs

Political signs are protected by the First Amendment and CA Elections Code 18310. Cities cannot prohibit political signs on private residential property. Time, place, and manner restrictions may apply but cannot be content-based.

Key details: Status: Protected speech. State Law: CA Elections Code 18310. Private Property: Cannot be prohibited. Public ROW: May have size/placement limits.

Signs in right-of-way: removal by city, possible fine $25 to $100. Oversized signs: notice to reduce. Failure to remove post-election: fines $25 to $50 per day after grace period.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Burbank gives residents more flexibility on political signs.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Burbank gives residents more room on sign regulations. 2 of the 3 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

Keep in mind that Burbank can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.