Palo Alto prohibits exterior commercial signage for home occupations in residential zones. No advertising on the dwelling or yard is allowed beyond limited professional plates.
Under Palo Alto Municipal Code Title 18, home occupations must not alter the residential appearance of the dwelling or property. This means no signs, display windows, or exterior advertising of any kind are permitted. Professional name plates meeting the sign code (generally small, non-illuminated, and non-commercial in character) may be allowed for certain licensed professions such as doctors or attorneys, but this is narrow. Window signs, banners, A-frames, and flashing signs are prohibited. The city sign ordinance regulates size, location, illumination, and materials. Violations are enforced by Planning Code Enforcement and can result in orders to remove signage and fines.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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