San Bernardino's Sign Regulations: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles sign regulations a little differently. In San Bernardino, 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
San Bernardino allows temporary political signs on private property under Development Code 19.22, subject to size and timing limits. Signs in the public right-of-way or on utility poles are removed on sight.
Key details: Max residential sign: Around 6 square feet per sign. Posting window: 90 days before through 10 days after election. Right-of-way: Prohibited; removed on sight. HOA rule: Cannot ban political signs under Civil Code 4710. Citation: Starting at 100 dollars for violations.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Garage Sale Signs
San Bernardino allows garage sale signs on private property up to about 6 square feet, but bans signs on utility poles, traffic signs, medians, and parkways. Signs must come down within 24 hours after the sale ends.
Key details: On-site sign: About 6 square feet allowed at the sale. Off-site signs: Only on private property with written permission. Timing: 24 hours before to 24 hours after the sale. Right-of-way: Prohibited on poles, signs, medians, and parkways. Citation: Starting at 100 dollars per violation.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Holiday Displays
San Bernardino does not regulate holiday displays by content and allows lights and decor on private property, subject to the noise ordinance, electrical safety rules, and no blockage of public sidewalks or traffic signs.
Key details: Permit: Not required on private property. Electrical: Outdoor-rated GFCI circuits required. Noise cap: 55 dBA at residential line from 10 PM to 7 AM. Right-of-way: Cannot block sidewalks below 8 feet. HOA rules: Timing and brightness limits allowed under CC and Rs.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
San Bernardino is more permissive than most cities when it comes to holiday displays. That said, there are still limits.
The Bottom Line
San Bernardino'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 San Bernardino is broadly strict or permissive.
Keep in mind that San Bernardino 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.