San Diego County, CA Home Business: Signage Rules (2026)

The County Zoning Ordinance's home-occupation rule (Section 6156.m) is explicit that 'there shall be no signs identifying or advertising the home occupation other than those permitted by Section 6252(d) of this ordinance.' Section 6252 of the Zoning Ordinance governs 'Exempt On-Premise Signs' — the limited categories of residential signage (such as name/address signs) that are allowed without a sign permit on residential property. The home-occupation provision does not create any extra business signage allowance; it simply incorporates whatever modest residential sign rights already exist under 6252(d). Combined with the rule that there be 'no exterior evidence of the conduct of a home occupation,' the practical effect is that a home-based business in the unincorporated County may not post a commercial business sign, banner, or advertising display visible from outside. Window advertising, illuminated signs, and yard signs promoting the business are not permitted. Operators who want signage should confirm the exact dimensions and content allowed under Section 6252(d) with County Planning & Development Services, since exempt residential signs are tightly limited in size and purpose. (Note: the precise size limits within Section 6252(d) should be verified directly in the Zoning Ordinance sign regulations.)