Novato, CA Sign Regulations: Window Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Window coverage cap
- 20 percent of total window area
- Temporary window sign display time
- Maximum of 10 days
- Temporary window sign location
- Ground-floor windows only
- Permanent window signs
- Ground level and second story only
- Neon signs
- Transparent background, hung inside the glass line
Summary
In the City of Novato, permanent and temporary window signs together cannot occupy more than 20 percent of the total window area. Temporary window signs can be displayed inside a window for a maximum of 10 days and only in ground-floor windows, under Section 19.32.070(G).
G.Window Signs. The following standards apply to window signs in all zoning districts where allowed:1.Maximum Sign Area. Permanent and temporary window signs shall not occupy more than 20 percent of the total window area.2.Permanent Window Signs.a.Signs shall be allowed only on windows located on the ground level and second story of a building frontage.b.Signage shall consist of individual letters, logos, or symbols applied to the glass surface; however, neon signs with transparent backgrounds may be hung inside the window glass line.3.Temporary Window Signs. Temporary window signs may be allowed provided that the signs:a.May be displayed inside a window for a maximum of 10 days.b.Shall only be located within the ground-floor windows of the structure.
Full Breakdown
Section 19.32.070(G) of the Novato Zoning Ordinance sets the window sign standards for all zoning districts where window signs are allowed in the City of Novato, Marin County, California. The cap is a coverage cap: permanent and temporary window signs shall not occupy more than 20 percent of the total window area. Permanent window signs are allowed only on windows on the ground level and second story of a building frontage, and they must consist of individual letters, logos, or symbols applied to the glass surface.
Neon signs with transparent backgrounds are the one hung-inside option and must hang inside the window glass line. Temporary window signs have two extra limits: they can be displayed inside a window for a maximum of 10 days, and they can sit only within the ground-floor windows of the structure. The temporary-sign limits matter because Section 19.32.040(P) prohibits temporary and portable signs except as allowed by Subsections 19.32.070.E and G. Section 19.32.040(B) also bans animated signs and variable intensity, blinking, or flashing signs, so a flashing neon window display falls on the prohibited list rather than the permitted one.
Section 19.31.030(L) adds that an abandoned sign referring to a business that is no longer operating at the site cannot be left in place. Division 19.32 applies to signs in all zoning districts except the REI zoning district, and it applies in the PD (Planned Development) district only to the extent a site is not governed by an approved Master Plan or Precise Development Plan. The Director administers sign review under Section 19.32.030.
Violations & Fines
Section 19.31.030(L) lists any sign in violation of Section 19.32 as a violation, and Section 19.31.040 sends abatement through Division 19.59. There the Director issues a written Notice of Violation stating a 30-day correction period, Section 19.59.040 allows a misdemeanor or infraction charge, and Section 1-5.1 caps infraction fines at $100, $200, and $500 for first, second, and later violations within one year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much of a storefront window can signs cover in Novato?
How long can a temporary window sign stay up in Novato?
Can I hang a neon sign in my Novato shop window?
Which floors can have permanent window signs in Novato?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Novato
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