Santa Clarita's Sign Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles sign regulations a little differently. In Santa Clarita, 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

Political signs protected under First Amendment and CA Elections Code. Cannot be banned on private property during election periods.

Key details: Private Property: Protected by state law. Public ROW: Generally restricted. State Law: CA Elections Code protections. Removal: Must remove post-election.

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.

The rules around political signs in Santa Clarita lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Garage Sale Signs

Garage sale signs subject to SCMC 17.51.080 private property sign regulations. Small sign projects typically approved over the counter at the Permit Center.

Key details: Regulations: SCMC 17.51.080. Approval: Over the counter at Permit Center. Fee: Small sign projects — free. Public ROW: Signs not permitted.

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

Holiday displays on residential property are generally permitted. Temporary seasonal decorations do not require permits. No temperature/glare changes to neighbors.

Key details: Permit: Not required for residential. Seasonal: Temporary displays allowed. Glare Restriction: No temp/glare changes (17.51). Electrical: Must meet safety 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.

Santa Clarita 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, Santa Clarita 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 Santa Clarita's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.