Sign Regulations in West Des Moines, IA (2026)
3 verified sign regulations for West Des Moines, Iowa, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Digital Billboards
West Des Moines does not allow digital or electronic billboards. City Code section 9-18-15(D)(7)(h) states flatly that electronic changeable graphics on billboards are prohibited, and the same code's general LED-sign rules separately ban digital readerboards and video display boards citywide, regardless of zoning district.
West Des Moines Bans Digital Billboards
Heavy RestrictionsWest Des Moines City Code § 9-18-15(D)(7)(h)
h. Prohibited: Electronic changeable graphics on billboards shall be prohibited.
Window Signs
West Des Moines caps window signage under City Code section 9-18-16(B)(4)(f). Permanent window signs on non-residential buildings can't exceed 25% of a facade's window area, while temporary window signs, up to 30 days, get an additional 15% on top of that.
West Des Moines Window Sign Coverage Limits
Some RestrictionsWest Des Moines City Code § 9-18-16(B)(4)(f)
f. Window Signs: Any graphic installed, adhered to, or painted upon an individual glazed surface panel. This term does not include merchandise located in a window and holiday displays. ... (1) Permanent window signs, which are graphics that are expected to remain in place for more than thirty (30) days and are not easily changed, such as window vinyl, shall be allowed for non- residential uses....
Freeway-Facing Signs
West Des Moines regulates freeway-facing signage through its 'Interstate Sign' provisions at City Code section 9-18-15(D)(3). A non-residential property needs at least 300 feet of interstate frontage to qualify, and each parcel is normally limited to one interstate sign facing the highway.
West Des Moines Interstate Sign Rules
Some RestrictionsWest Des Moines City Code § 9-18-15(D)(3)
3. Interstate Signs: Elevated ground sign allowed on private properties adjacent to the interstate to be viewed by and directed towards the motoring public on the interstate. These signs are intended to identify on-premises businesses or services. May also be referred to as freeway or highway signs. ... ... a. Where Allowed: Any non-residential use with a minimum of three hundred feet (300') of...