Signage Rules: Colorado Springs vs Manitou Springs
How do signage rules rules compare between Colorado Springs, CO and Manitou Springs, CO?
Colorado Springs has fewer restrictions than Manitou Springs.
Colorado Springs, CO
El Paso County
Colorado Springs allows a home occupation only one sign - identifying the home occupation, no larger than two (2) square feet in area, attached to the dwelling, and with no illumination. A second unilluminated placard up to two square feet is permitted at the point of sale for cottage foods in compliance with Colorado Revised Statutes 25-4-1614(3)(c).
View full Colorado Springs rules →Manitou Springs, CO
El Paso County
Manitou Springs strictly regulates signage given its historic tourist character. Home occupation signs are limited to small non-illuminated signs attached to the home. The city is known for strict sign enforcement on Manitou Avenue and throughout the historic areas.
View full Manitou Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Colorado Springs | Manitou Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | City Code 7.5.1503.C | - |
| Max sign size | 2 square feet, attached to the dwelling | - |
| Illumination | Prohibited - no illumination of the sign | Prohibited |
| Cottage food placard | Separate 2 sq ft point-of-sale placard per C.R.S. 25-4-1614(3)(c) | - |
| Home Occupation Sign Max | - | Typically 2 sq ft — attached to home only |
| Historic District | - | Sign design review may apply |
| Strict Enforcement | - | Manitou Springs actively enforces sign standards |
| Planning Dept | - | 719-685-4398 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Colorado Springs FAQ
Can I put a sign up for my home business in Colorado Springs?
Yes, but only one small sign. City Code 7.5.1503.C allows a single unilluminated sign identifying the home occupation, no larger than two square feet, attached to the dwelling. It may not be illuminated in any way.
Is there a separate sign rule if I sell cottage foods?
Yes. In addition to the 2-square-foot home occupation sign, City Code 7.5.1503.C lets you display an unilluminated placard up to two square feet at the point of sale for cottage foods, in compliance with Colorado Revised Statutes 25-4-1614(3)(c), which requires a disclaimer that the product was made in a home kitchen not subject to state licensure or inspection.
Manitou Springs FAQ
Can I put a business sign on my home in Manitou Springs?
Manitou Springs strictly regulates signage given its historic tourist character. Home occupation signs are limited to small non-illuminated signs attached to the home. The city is known for strict sign enforcement on Manitou Avenue and throughout the historic areas.
What signage rules apply to home businesses in Manitou Springs?
Home Occupation Sign Max: Typically 2 sq ft — attached to home only. Illumination: Prohibited. Historic District: Sign design review may apply. Strict Enforcement: Manitou Springs actively enforces sign standards.
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