Stratford, CT Sign Regulations: Window Signs (2026)

Stratford regulates window signs in Section 6.11 of the Zoning Regulations. Section 6.11.2 defines SIGN, WINDOW as any sign affixed to a window or displayed within three feet of the interior of the window, so a poster hung behind the glass counts the same as a decal on it. The sign table in Section 6.11.8 covers the LB, LBB, CNC, CF and WF districts and sets one limit for window signs: less than 50% of the total window display area (the table prints the word as "widow"). The location, number and height columns for the window sign row carry no limit. That row is the only window sign row in Section 6.11.

Section 6.11.12 removes the paperwork. It states that window signs are exempt from the permit requirements, while other outdoor advertising and commercial signs in the Town of Stratford need a permit from the Building Inspector after a zoning compliance report from the Office of Planning and Zoning.

Window signs still answer to the prohibited-sign list in Section 6.11.3. Signs covering any window, doorway or other existing architectural feature are banned, and so are signs obstructing any window, door or opening used as a means of egress or ingress or for firefighting purposes. Flashing, revolving or animated signs of intermittent or varying light intensity are prohibited even when they are located inside a building but visible outside the building. Section 6.11.3 also bans banners, posters, pennants, ribbons, streamers, strings of light bulbs and spinners that tend to unduly divert the attention of motorists in any district, and it bars commercial signs in residential zones except on properties where a home occupation or a transient residential use has been approved.

The Zoning Enforcement Officer administers these requirements under Section 7.1.5.