Boston Zoning Code Article 11 prohibits advertising signs for home occupations in residential districts. A nameplate up to 2 square feet identifying the occupant is allowed.
Home occupations in Boston residential (R) districts must be subordinate and invisible from the street under Article 10 home occupation provisions. Article 11 sign regulations ban any commercial advertising sign on a residential lot. A professional nameplate not exceeding 2 square feet identifying the resident and occupation (lawyer, therapist, doctor) is allowed on the building but not freestanding. Window signs, lighted signs, sandwich boards, and vehicle wraps parked on the lot are prohibited. Historic districts further limit nameplate design and require commission approval. Violations trigger ISD zoning enforcement with fines up to $300 per day.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Boston code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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