Sign Regulations in Paterson, NJ: What Residents Actually Need to Know

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

Garage Sale Signs

Paterson allows temporary garage sale signs with restrictions on size, placement, and duration. Signs in public rights-of-way may be prohibited. Signs must be removed immediately after the sale.

Key details: Size Limit: 4 to 6 square feet. Directional Signs: 3 to 5 allowed. Removal: Within 24 hours of sale. Topic: Garage Sale Signs.

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

Paterson generally permits holiday decorations and displays on residential property with minimal restrictions. Displays should not create traffic hazards, excessive noise, or fire risks. HOA rules may add limits.

Key details: Permits: Not required. Duration: 30 to 45 days typical. Safety: Outdoor-rated electrical. Topic: Holiday Displays.

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.

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

Political Signs

Paterson allows political signs on private property with size limits. Signs in public rights-of-way are typically prohibited. First Amendment protections apply. Removal required within a set period after elections.

Key details: Private Property: Allowed with size limits. Right-of-Way: Prohibited. Post-Election: Remove within 7 to 30 days. Topic: Political Signs.

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 Paterson gives residents more flexibility on political signs.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Paterson 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.

All of the above reflects Paterson's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.