San Mateo's Sign Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles sign regulations a little differently. In San Mateo, 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

Garage sale signs in San Mateo must comply with Chapter 25 of the sign code. Signs may not be placed on public property or utility poles. Temporary signs must be removed after the sale ends.

Key details: Code Reference: SMMC Chapter 25. Public Property: Signs prohibited. Utility Poles: Signs prohibited. Removal: Promptly after sale ends. Enforcement: Code Enforcement — 650-522-7200.

Signs on public property may be removed without notice. Failing to remove signs after the sale violates the sign code. Citations may be issued for repeat violations.

Holiday Displays

Holiday displays in San Mateo are generally exempt from the sign code under Chapter 25's exemptions. Residential decorations are permitted without a permit. Displays should not create safety hazards or violate electrical codes.

Key details: Permit: Not required — exempt. Sign Code: SMMC Ch. 25 exemptions. Electrical: Outdoor-rated required. Safety: No sight line obstruction. Removal Deadline: Not specified.

Holiday displays are generally not subject to enforcement. Electrical hazards, sight line obstructions, or extreme nuisance conditions may be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

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

Political Signs

Political signs in San Mateo are protected by the First Amendment and California Elections Code Section 18310. Signs on private property cannot be prohibited. Under state law, political signs may be posted up to 90 days before and must be removed within 10 days after an election.

Key details: Private Property: Protected — cannot prohibit. Posting Period: 90 days before election. Removal: 10 days after election. State Law: CA Elections Code §18310. HOA: CC §4710 — must allow signs.

The city cannot enforce against political signs on private property. Signs on public property may be removed. HOA violations of CC 4710 are challengeable.

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

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, San Mateo 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.

This guide is based on San Mateo's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.