Waukesha, WI Sign Regulations: Window Signs (2026)

Section 27.03(12) sets the coverage ceiling for Permanent Window Signs: Window Signs shall not cover more than 40% of the window they are affixed to and shall not exceed the gross square footage permitted for the property, and only one neon sign per window is permitted. Window Signs are allowed with a permit in the M-1, M-2, M-3, B-2, B-1, B-4, B-3, B-5, and MM-1 districts, but are not allowed at all in the RD, RS-1 through RS-3, RM, and RS-4 residential districts, where Permanent Signs generally aren't permitted or are limited to Wall Signs.

Temporary window displays run on a separate, tighter rule: Section 27.04(1) lets any premises hang Temporary Signs on the inside of a window without a permit, but caps that coverage at 25% of the window's area, well below the 40% ceiling for a Permanent Window Sign. Both limits are measured per window, not per storefront, so a business with multiple street-facing windows applies the percentage to each one separately. Applicants for a permanent Window Sign must submit a scale drawing showing materials, message, colors, and construction, plus a non-refundable fee set by the Department of Community Development's fee schedule, and the permit must issue unless the application is incomplete, unpaid, or non-compliant.