San Diego, CA Sign Regulations: Window Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Coverage limit
- 30% of window area max
- Letter height
- 6 inches average max
- Logo size
- 16 inches max any dimension
- Mounting
- Interior surface only
Summary
Temporary window signs in San Diego may cover no more than 30 percent of the window area, with letters capped at 6 inches and logos capped at 16 inches, and must be mounted on the interior only.
Table 142-12K (Temporary Window Signs): "Not to exceed 30 percent of the window area. Letters may not be greater than 6 inches in average height, and logos may not exceed 16 inches in any dimension." §142.1255(i): "Signs may be painted on the interior of a window, or constructed of cloth or paper and attached to the interior of a window or interior building wall. Signs may not be attached or affixed in any manner to the exterior surface of any window or building."
Full Breakdown
San Diego Municipal Code § 142.1255(i) and Table 142-12K govern temporary window signs citywide as a category of temporary secondary sign. Coverage is capped at 30 percent of the window area, with individual letters no taller than 6 inches on average and logos no larger than 16 inches in any dimension. The sign must be painted directly on the interior glass or made of cloth or paper affixed to the interior of the window or an interior building wall: nothing may be attached to the exterior surface of a window or building. A business that exceeds the coverage or size caps, or that mounts signage outside, is erecting a sign contrary to the sign division.
Violations & Fines
Erecting a window sign that exceeds the coverage or size caps, or that is mounted on the exterior surface, is unlawful under § 142.1206 and enforced as a strict-liability offense through Chapter 12, Article 1 code enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a sign on the outside of my storefront window in San Diego?
How much of my window can a temporary sign cover?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego to another location·View the California sign regulations overview
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Window Signs in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle window signs.