Costa Mesa's Sign Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles sign regulations a little differently. In Costa Mesa, 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.

Political Signs

Costa Mesa classifies political campaign signs as noncommercial portable signs under Chapter VIII of Title 13 of the Municipal Code. Noncommercial portable signs promoting political viewpoints, commenting on public officials, or addressing matters of public discourse are permitted in residential areas subject to size, placement, and maintenance standards.

Key details: Classification: Noncommercial portable signs. Governing Code: CMMC Title 13, Chapter VIII. Pre-Election Posting: Up to 90 days before (state). Post-Election Removal: Within 10 days after. Code Enforcement: (714) 754-5623.

Signs placed illegally in the public right-of-way or on city property may be removed by the city. Violations of the sign ordinance may result in code enforcement notices and administrative citations. Contact Code Enforcement at (714) 754-5623.

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

Holiday Displays

Costa Mesa does not impose strict regulations on residential holiday and seasonal decorations. Displays are generally permitted on private property as long as they do not create safety hazards, obstruct visibility, or violate noise ordinances. The city's sign ordinance primarily targets commercial signage rather than seasonal residential decorations.

Key details: Permit Required: No. Safety Requirements: No visibility/fire/electrical hazards. Noise Rules: Standard quiet hours apply. HOA Rules: May impose additional limits. Code Enforcement: (714) 754-5623.

Displays that create safety hazards or nuisance conditions may be subject to code enforcement action. Excessive noise from animated displays is subject to the city's noise ordinance. Contact Code Enforcement at (714) 754-5623.

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

Garage Sale Signs

Costa Mesa regulates garage and yard sale signs as part of its broader sign ordinance under Title 13 of the Municipal Code. Signs advertising garage sales must comply with placement, size, and location restrictions and may not be placed in the public right-of-way or on utility poles.

Key details: Permit Required: No (optional registration). Sales Per Year: 2 per property. Max Duration: 3 consecutive days per sale. Right-of-Way Signs: Prohibited. Code Enforcement: (714) 754-5623.

Signs placed illegally in the public right-of-way or on city infrastructure may be removed by city staff. Repeated violations of the sign ordinance may result in code enforcement notices and administrative citations. Contact Code Enforcement at (714) 754-5623.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa 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.