Des Moines allows temporary signs advertising yard sales, garage sales, and open houses only during the event. Signs may not exceed 6 square feet in area or 4 feet in height, must stay off public rights-of-way, and must be removed once the event ends.
Chapter 134 (Zoning Ordinance), § 134-1276 of the Des Moines Municipal Code governs temporary signs in all zoning districts. Yard signs advertising legal yard sales, open houses, or similar temporary events are permitted without a sign permit during the event, provided they meet the following limits: maximum 6 square feet in area; maximum 4 feet in height; located outside any vision clearance triangle; and not placed within any public right-of-way or upon any other public property. Signs must be removed immediately after the event concludes. Posting signs on utility poles, traffic signs, or public infrastructure is prohibited citywide. The Zoning Enforcement Division (phone: 515-283-4207) enforces sign violations. Signs in the right-of-way may be removed by the city without notice.
Illegal signs placed in the right-of-way are subject to city removal without notice. Zoning violations for oversized or improperly placed signs may result in citations under Ch. 134 with civil fines under § 1-15.
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