Wilmington, DE Home Business: Signage Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Max sign size
- 144 square inches
- Allowed formats
- interior window sign or facade plaque
- Illumination
- not permitted, non-illuminated only
- Governing section
- City Code § 48-131(c)(8)c
- Enforcing agency
- Dept. of Licenses and Inspections
Summary
Wilmington's zoning code caps home-based business signage at 144 square inches: either a non-illuminated interior window sign or a small brass or bronze facade plaque, with no other exterior evidence of the business allowed.
(8)Low-intensity home occupation, limited to one per dwelling unit and provided that it is conducted without: ... c. Any external evidence or effect of such occupation, except that either a nonilluminated interior window sign not exceeding 144 square inches in area, or a brass or bronze plaque not exceeding 144 square inches in area mounted on the facade of the building, shall be permitted;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72).
Full Breakdown
Under Wilmington's zoning code, a low-intensity home occupation run from a residence is permitted by right in residential districts, but the only external sign allowed is a non-illuminated interior window sign up to 144 square inches, or a brass or bronze plaque of the same maximum size mounted on the building's facade. No illuminated signs, yard signs, or other exterior advertising qualifies as permitted evidence of the home business. The Department of Licenses and Inspections administers zoning compliance for home occupations, and the same 144-square-inch cap carries over to moderate-intensity home occupations approved by the zoning board of adjustment.
Violations & Fines
Posting an illuminated sign, a yard sign, or any exterior advertising beyond the 144-square-inch window sign or facade plaque breaches the home occupation's zoning conditions and can trigger enforcement or loss of the home occupation's permitted status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a yard sign out for my home business in Wilmington?
Can a home business window sign be lit up?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wilmington
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