Royal Oak Township, MI Sign Regulations: Window Signs (2026)

Section 32-823 defines a window sign as a sign located in or on a window that is intended to be viewed from the outside. A permanent window sign that is not affixed directly to a window or positioned next to a window in a manner visible from the outside is treated as a wall sign instead. The temporary window sign row of the § 32-830(c) table reads: nonresidential districts, paper or fabric, permit required No, and Maximum display period: 30 days.

The area, height and number columns for the row all point to note (f). Note (f) is the coverage cap: the total of all window signs, temporary and permanent, shall not exceed one-third of the total window area. It also says the area of permanent window signs is counted in determining compliance with the standards for total area of wall signs, so a permanent window sign draws down two limits at once. Note (g) adds a maintenance condition: temporary window signs that are faded, yellowed, ripped or otherwise damaged shall be removed immediately.

The table prints no setback for temporary window signs. Other parts of § 32-830(b) still apply to window displays. A sign that incorporates flashing or moving lights is prohibited, a sign that obstructs free access to or egress from a required door, window, fire escape or other required exit is prohibited, and a sign that is not in good repair, such that it has broken parts, missing letters or nonoperational lights, is prohibited.

A sign located completely within an enclosed building and not visible from outside is exempt from the permit requirement under § 32-830(a)(13). A permanent sign outside the temporary table needs a permit from the township building official under §§ 32-825 and 32-826, with the fee set by resolution of the township board.