Bradenton, FL Home Business: Signage Rules (2026)

Section 3.4.5.3 of the Land Use Regulations sets sign limits for home occupations and home businesses in the Village of the Arts Overlay district (VAOD) in the City of Bradenton. Not including district theme signage, a home occupation can have one window or hanging façade sign, or a ground sign not to exceed six square feet in area. A home business use can have one hanging façade sign not to exceed six square feet, or a ground sign not to exceed 12 square feet. Ground signs must be low profile with a maximum height of 72 inches, including structural components. All signage must be approved by the PCD director and be compatible with the VAOD theme. Section 3.4.6.3 sets the same six and 12 square foot limits, the same 72-inch ground sign height and the same PCD director approval for the Antiques District Overlay, tied to the ADO theme.

The overlay is the only route to a business sign on a home lot. Under schedule 5.1.1, working at one's trade or business at home means that, unless a special use permit for a home business has been granted, no signs, displays or merchandise, outside storage, noxious fumes or odors or excessive noise are allowed. The definition of a home occupation in chapter 10 is a business carried out in a residence with no outward appearance or indication of business activity, including client visitation and signs. Chapter 5.0 also states that signs require a Sign Permit unless otherwise exempt.

The overlay adds limits around the sign. No more than three employees, including the proprietor and family members, can work on the premises at one time, under section 3.4.5.1. Outdoor storage or display on a lot without a principal structure is barred by 3.4.5.4. Special event signage at the overlay entrances is limited to a banner or temporary sign not to exceed 16 square feet on private property, installed no more than three weeks before the event and removed within two days after it.