Newport Beach, CA Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)

Newport Beach Municipal Code Title 20 Sign Code regulates political signs consistent with First Amendment protections. Temporary political signs on private residential property do not require a sign permit. Signs are limited to 6 square feet per sign face in residential zones and 16 square feet in commercial zones. Maximum height is 4 feet in residential areas when freestanding. There is no limit on the number of political signs per property. Signs may not be illuminated, animated, or placed in a manner that obstructs sight distance at intersections. Political signs on public property, medians, utility poles, traffic signs, or within the public right-of-way are prohibited and subject to removal by the city. Signs on private property must be set back from the property line to avoid encroachment into the right-of-way. Under California Elections Code Section 18370, political signs may be posted up to 90 days before an election and must be removed within 10 days after the election. Signs supporting or opposing ballot measures or candidates are protected non-commercial speech. Code Enforcement handles sign complaints at (949) 644-3215.