Issaquah, WA Sign Regulations: Window Signs (2026)

The window-sign standard in LUC 18.612.090(E)(7) counts every kind of window sign together: temporary, permanent, primary, secondary and additional. Together they cannot exceed 25 percent of the total window area on any façade. Graphics, artwork, photos and decorations are counted separately and cannot exceed an additional 25 percent, which makes a total of 50 percent of the window area on any façade.

One exception removes the cap: when a space is empty, unoccupied or under construction, its windows can be fully obscured through art, decoration or graphics. Window signs such as open/closed, store hours, address and other necessary directional and informational signs are exempt from the total sign area limitations.

A window sign can also serve as an additional sign. In that case the maximum area per sign face is set by a maximum letter size or logo height of 12 inches, and a business with a window facing the public realm or a transportation facility, excluding alleys, can have one. The number of additional window signs cannot exceed the façade's linear footage divided by 20; the code's own example is a 60-foot façade, which could have up to three window signs. Primary, secondary and additional window signs must be entirely on site.

Signs inside the glass also count. Under LUC 18.612.030(A)(4), commercial message signs within three feet of a window that are meant to be viewed from the right-of-way or an area open to the public are not exempt and are treated as window signage. Permanent window signs require a sign permit under 18.612.090(A), and illuminated ones are subject to the lighting standards in 18.612.180.