Title 22.140.430 of the LA County Code limits window signs in commercial buildings of unincorporated areas to 25 percent of the window's glass area, bans flashing or animated displays, and allows neon and LED only with proper electrical permits.
Title 22.140.430 classifies window signs as on-premise signs that do not require a separate sign permit if they meet area limits and content rules. Total signage on any single window pane cannot exceed 25 percent of the glass area. Flashing, blinking, scrolling, or animated electronic window displays are prohibited in residential-adjacent commercial corridors. Permanent neon and LED signs require an electrical permit through Building and Safety. Temporary paper signs for sales or events may run up to 30 consecutive days without permit but must remove within seven days of expiration. Coverage from interior shelving and product displays counts toward the 25 percent threshold. Contract cities apply their own window sign rules.
Exceeding the 25 percent window coverage, displaying animation, or installing electrified signage without permits triggers Code Enforcement citations under Title 22.140.430, with daily fines and removal orders within ten days.
See how Santa Monica's window signs rules stack up against other locations.
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