Sign Regulations in Chico, CA (2026)
3 verified sign regulations for Chico, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Political Signs
Chico exempts noncommercial (including political/campaign) signs on residential property from sign approval under CMC §19.74.060, provided each sign is ≤4 sq ft in area. Height is capped at 3 ft inside required setbacks or sight-distance areas, 6 ft outside them. No state-mandated election display window is added by the city — California Elections Code framework allows display from 90 days before through 10 days after the election on public ROW. Signs may not be posted on utility poles, street signs, traffic devices, medians, or trees per CMC §19.74.110.
Political & Campaign Signs in Chico
Few RestrictionsGarage Sale Signs
Chico Municipal Code §19.22.020(F) limits residential garage/yard sales to two events per 12-month period, each not exceeding 3 consecutive days. Per CMC §19.74.060, one single- or double-faced sign up to 4 sq ft per face may be displayed at the sale site for the duration of the sale only. Sign height max 3 ft in setbacks/sight-distance areas, 6 ft elsewhere. Off-site directional signs in the public ROW (lamp posts, medians, traffic signs) are prohibited under §19.74.110.
Garage Sale & Yard Sale Signs in Chico
Some RestrictionsHoliday Displays
Chico has no specific ordinance regulating residential holiday lights or seasonal decorations — no city-imposed put-up or take-down dates apply. General nuisance, light-trespass, and noise rules govern excessive impacts. Animated/flashing decorations on commercial property may qualify as 'signs' under CMC Chapter 19.74 and trigger sign approval. Sound from amplified displays must comply with Chico's noise ordinance (CMC Ch. 9.38). HOAs may impose stricter limits independently. Lights and cords must comply with California Electrical Code (Title 24, Part 3) for outdoor use.
Holiday Lights & Seasonal Displays in Chico
Few RestrictionsLooking for Butte County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Chico city rules.
Sign Regulations in Butte County →