Hercules, CA Sign Regulations: Window Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Coverage cap
- 25% of glassed window area
- Placement
- Inside the window only
- Setback
- At least 3 ft from window frame
- Permit needed
- None, if limits are met
- Governing section
- § 13-34.500(9)
Summary
Hercules lets businesses put up window signs without any permit, as long as they're mounted inside the glass, cover no more than 25 percent of the total glassed window area, and sit at least 3 feet back from the window frame so most of the interior stays visible from the sidewalk.
9. Window Signs. Window signs are allowed; provided, that they are placed on the inside of the window, and occupy no more than 25 percent of the glassed area of all windows, and are at least 3 feet from the window frame of an exterior window and the majority of the interior is visible from the outside of the building.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 555, passed March 25, 2025).
Full Breakdown
500(9), part of the Municipal Code's list of signs that require no permit, allows window signs on the condition that they are placed on the inside of the window rather than applied to the exterior glass, occupy no more than 25 percent of the glassed area of all of a building's windows combined, and sit at least 3 feet from the window frame of an exterior window. The rule also requires that the majority of the store's interior remain visible from outside the building, which prevents a business from papering over its storefront glass even while staying under the 25 percent threshold.
400's list of signs subject to review, a shop owner can install compliant window signage without filing a sign permit application or a master sign program, unlike wall signs, monument signs, or pylon signs elsewhere in Chapter 13-34 that require Community Development Director or Planning Commission sign-off. 400.
Violations & Fines
A window sign that exceeds the 25 percent coverage cap, sits closer than 3 feet to the frame, or is mounted outside the glass loses its no-permit exemption and becomes an unpermitted sign. Section 13-34.205 lets the Chief Building Official order its removal within 30 days of written notice, and Section 13-34.207 allows the City Attorney to pursue a public nuisance action if the sign stays up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a window sign in my Hercules storefront?
Can I cover my whole storefront window with signage?
What happens if my window sign is bigger than allowed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hercules
California rules heatmap·Compare Hercules to another location·View the California sign regulations overview
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Window Signs in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Contra Costa County handle window signs.