Houston's Chapter 46 Sign Code regulates all signage within city limits. Home-based businesses generally cannot display commercial signage without a Certificate of Occupancy. Each business is limited to five signs total under the Sign Code.
Chapter 46 of the Code of Ordinances (Houston Sign Code, adopted May 1980, revised July 2020) regulates all signage within city limits. Before submitting a sign permit application, a business must have a current Certificate of Occupancy with the business name matching the proposed sign. Each business is limited to five signs total, typically a combination of ground, projecting, wall, and marquee signs. Self-installed non-electrical ground signs are allowed under limited circumstances if no larger than 60 square feet and no taller than 8 feet. Deed restrictions in most residential neighborhoods prohibit commercial signage, effectively barring visible signs for home businesses. Illuminated signs are subject to brightness limits to prevent disturbances in residential areas.
Unpermitted commercial sign: removal order and fines. Deed restriction violation: civil enforcement via Legal Department hotline (832-393-6333).
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle signage rules.
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