How Downey Handles Sign Regulations: A Practical Guide

Downey maintains 107 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with sign regulations. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Downey falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Garage Sale Signs

Posting garage sale signs on public utility poles, street signs, traffic signs, or trees is illegal in Downey. Violation results in a $25 removal fee per sign plus potential criminal complaint.

Key details: Utility Poles: Signs prohibited. Trees: Signs prohibited. Fine: $25 removal fee per sign. Criminal: Complaint may be filed.

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

This is one of the stricter rules in Downey's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Political Signs

Political signs are protected speech under the First Amendment and California law. Downey cannot prohibit political signs on private residential property. Temporary political signs generally do not require permits.

Key details: Private Property: Protected, no permit needed. Size: Reasonable size limits may apply. Public ROW: Restricted per city code. Duration: May have post-election removal rules.

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.

Downey is more permissive than most cities when it comes to political signs. That said, there are still limits.

Holiday Displays

Residential holiday displays are generally permitted in Downey as temporary decorations. They must not create safety hazards, block public sidewalks, or violate electrical/fire codes.

Key details: Allowed: Yes, as temporary displays. Duration: Seasonal/reasonable time. Safety: Must not block sidewalks. Electrical: Must meet fire/electrical codes.

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.

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

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Downey 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.

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