Placentia, CA Sign Regulations: Window Signs (2026)

In the City of Placentia, window signs are exempt from a sign permit when they meet the four conditions printed in Placentia Municipal Code § 23.90.060(13). The exemption list covers nonilluminated signs only, and item (13) expressly includes signs painted on windows. Under § 23.90.030, every other exterior sign needs a sign permit from the planning department before it goes up, unless § 23.90.060 exempts it, and a building permit or electrical permit can also be required.

The conditions are these. A window sign has to be inside a window of the business to which it pertains. The total area occupied by all such signs cannot exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the window area through which they are displayed. Signs must be displayed in a neat and orderly manner. Painted signs consist of lettering and/or random figures, and painting solid areas is prohibited, except for seasonal holiday displays.

The same cap repeats in the district rules. Section 23.90.180(9), which governs the C-0, C-1, C-2, C-M and T-C districts, applies the identical four conditions to window signs, including signs painted on windows and banners, so a banner hung in a storefront window counts toward the twenty-five (25) percent limit in those commercial districts. Section 23.90.210(3) applies the same limits to service stations, including minimarkets.

Two prohibitions in § 23.90.100 also shape what goes in a window. Item (3) bans signs that incorporate in any manner flashing, moving or intermittent lighting, and item (4) bans rotating or animated signs and signs with moving parts. Under § 23.90.090 the director of development services requires correction or removal of any sign deemed to be in violation of the title or any other city ordinance.