Sign Regulations in Gilbert, Arizona
Gilbert, Arizona has specific sign regulations covering 128 sign types across 12 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include Exempt Signs, Prohibited Signs, Flagpole Sign. Height restrictions apply. Permits are required for most commercial signs. Use PermitPal to get instant access to the complete regulations.
Data last verified: January 7, 2026
Sign Regulation Overview for Gilbert, Arizona
Sample Sign Requirements in Gilbert
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flagpole Sign | Maximum 1.5 times max building height of district, not to exceed 50 ft. | — | — |
| Flag (on flagpole, bracket, or stanchion) | — | Commercial message flag: 24 sq ft sign area (one side counted). | — |
| Temporary Sign – General (Freestanding, Wall, Window) – Residential Zoning Districts | Freestanding: 4 ft; Wall (including Window): 6 ft. | 6 sq ft per sign. | Minimum 10 ft from property line/right‑of‑way; 15 ft spacing from other signs; not allowed in sight visibility triangle. |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
PermitPal Coverage for GilbertFull Coverage
Sign Types Covered
128
- Exempt Signs
- Prohibited Signs
- Flagpole Sign
- Flag (on flagpole, bracket, or stanchion)
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
12
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Official Resources for Gilbert
Other Cities in Arizona
Frequently Asked Questions
In Gilbert, wall signs can be up to Freestanding: 4 ft; Wall (including Window): 6 ft. and monument signs are limited to Freestanding: 4 ft; Wall (including Window): 6 ft.. Height limits vary by zoning district and sign type. Use PermitPal to get exact requirements for your specific location.
To get a sign permit in Gilbert, submit an application to the local building or planning department with sign dimensions, location, and design specifications. Our data confirms permits are required for most commercial signs. Processing typically takes 1-4 weeks. PermitPal helps you identify specific requirements and prepare complete applications.
In Gilbert, regulated sign types include Exempt Signs, Prohibited Signs, Flagpole Sign, Flag (on flagpole, bracket, or stanchion), and 2 more types. Most commercial signs require permits. Temporary signs and certain small signs may be exempt. Use PermitPal for specific exemptions.
In Gilbert, monument signs typically require a Minimum 10 ft from property line/right‑of‑way; 15 ft spacing from other signs; not allowed in sight visibility triangle. setback from property lines. Setbacks may increase near residential zones or intersections. Wall signs attached to buildings generally don't have setback requirements. Use PermitPal for location-specific setback data.
Digital and LED signs in Gilbert are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. Gilbert has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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Gilbert, Arizona Sign Rules at a Glance
Gilbert, Arizona regulates 128 sign types across 12 zoning districts. Temporary Sign – General (Freestanding, Wall, Window) – Residential Zoning Districts in the General Regulations For All Zones zoning district are capped at Freestanding: 4 ft; Wall (including Window): 6 ft. tall and 6 sq ft per sign., with a Minimum 10 ft from property line/right‑of‑way; 15 ft spacing from other signs; not allowed in sight visibility triangle. setback (Sec. 5.6.9.A Table 5.6.9.A – Temporary Signs: General Criteria – Residential Zoning Districts). Most commercial signs in Gilbert require a permit.
Detailed Sign Ordinance Requirements for Gilbert, Arizona
Sign Rules by Zoning District in Gilbert (12 zones)
| Zoning District | Sign Types Regulated | Max Height | Max Area | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Regulations For All Zones | 24 | A‑Frame/T‑Frame maximum height 45 in (~3.75 ft). | 96 sq ft per sign; aggregate maximum 256 sq ft for subdivision (all temporary subdivision signs). | — |
| Single Family (covers: Single Family-43 (SF-43); Single Family-35 (SF-35); Single Family-15 (SF-15); Single Family-10 (SF-10); Single Family-8 (SF-8); Single Family-7 (SF-7); Single Family-6 (SF-6); Single Family Detached (SF-D); Single Family Attached (SF-A)) | 5 | 8 ft maximum height. | 25 sq ft maximum per sign (only one side counted). | — |
| Non-Residential in a Residential District | 6 | 12 ft to top of design embellishments. | 60 sq ft maximum sign area (one side counted). | — |
| Multi-Family | 7 | Shall not exceed 80% of vertical dimension of sign band/wall space; maximum 14 ft when abutting property designated residential in General Plan. | 32 sq ft maximum sign area. | — |
| Commercial (covers: Neighborhood Commercial (NC); Community Commercial (CC); Shopping Center (SC); General Commercial (GC); Regional Commercial (RC); plus land‑use level "Commercial") | 25 | Sign height on canopy wall shall not exceed 80% of vertical dimension of canopy wall. | 500 sq ft maximum sign area per sign (one side counted, may be increased by 20% for center identification). | — |
| Heritage Village Center Zoning District (HVC) / Heritage Village Center, Mixed-Use and Gateway Zoning Districts / HVC, GVC, GBC | 17 | Not more than 80% of vertical dimension of sign band/wall; 14 ft maximum when abutting property designated residential in General Plan. | 200 sq ft maximum sign area for roof sign. | — |
| Office (covers: Neighborhood Office (NO); General Office (GO); land‑use level "Office") | 15 | Not to exceed 80% of vertical dimension of canopy wall; vertically centered. | 60 sq ft maximum area (one side counted). | — |
| Employment (covers: Business Park (BP); Light Industrial (LI); General Industrial (GI); land‑use level "Employment") | 15 | Sign height not to exceed 80% of vertical dimension of canopy wall; vertically centered. | 500 sq ft maximum; may be increased by 20% for center identification. | — |
| Public Facility / Institutional (PF/I) | 4 | 12 ft to top of design embellishments. | 60 sq ft (one side counted). | — |
| Mixed-Use (covers: Mixed-Use/Small (MU/S); Mixed-Use/Large (MU/L); Mixed-Use/Regional (MU/R); land‑use level "Mixed-Use/Small" "Mixed-Use/Large" "Mixed-Use/Regional") | 7 | 60 ft above grade or 30 ft above nearest freeway lane grade, whichever greater. | 500 sq ft; may be increased 20% for center ID. | — |
| Residential Zoning Districts (land‑use level; includes all SF and MF residential zones when used as purely residential) | 1 | Freestanding: 4 ft; Wall/Window: 6 ft. | 6 sq ft per sign. | — |
| Gateway Village Center (GVC) / Gateway Business Center (GBC) | 2 | — | — | — |
Zone-by-Zone Sign Requirements in Gilbert(sample of 3 of 12 zones)
General Regulations For All Zones
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Max Width | Setback | Signs Allowed | Location | Permit Required | Premium Details(Illumination, Size Formula, Permit Requirements, Additional Requirements — available with a free PermitPal account) | Ordinance Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary Sign – General (Freestanding, Wall, Window) – Residential Zoning Districts | Freestanding: 4 ft; Wall (including Window): 6 ft. | 6 sq ft per sign. | — | Minimum 10 ft from property line/right‑of‑way; 15 ft spacing from other signs; not allowed in sight visibility triangle. | Maximum 4 per parcel (plus specific off‑site allowance for single‑family use). | On private property in Residential Zoning Districts; not within sight visibility triangle; not on public sidewalk/right‑of‑way. | — | Unlock | 5.6.9.A Table 5.6.9.A – Temporary Signs: General Criteria – Residential Zoning Districts |
| Temporary Sign – General (Freestanding, Wall, Window) – Non‑Residential (Other than Heritage Village Center) Zoning Districts | Freestanding: 6 ft; Wall (including Window): 15 ft. | 32 sq ft per sign. | — | Minimum 10 ft from property line/right‑of‑way; 15 ft spacing from other signs; not allowed in sight visibility triangle. | Maximum 4 per parcel. | On private property in Non‑Residential (other than HVC) Zoning Districts; not within sight visibility triangle; not on public sidewalk/right‑of‑way. | — | Unlock | 5.6.9.A Table 5.6.9.A – Temporary Signs: General Criteria – Non‑Residential (Other than Heritage Village Center) Zoning Districts |
| Temporary Sign – General (Freestanding, Wall, Window) – Heritage Village Center, Mixed‑Use and Gateway Zoning Districts | Freestanding: 6 ft; Wall (including Window): 15 ft. | 32 sq ft per sign. | — | Minimum 10 ft from property line/right‑of‑way; 15 ft spacing from other signs; not allowed in sight visibility triangle. | Maximum 4 per parcel. | On private property in HVC, MU, and Gateway zoning districts; not within sight visibility triangle; not on public sidewalk/right‑of‑way. | — | Unlock | 5.6.9.A Table 5.6.9.A – Temporary Signs: General Criteria – Heritage Village Center, Mixed‑Use and Gateway Zoning Districts |
| A‑Frame Sign / T‑Frame Sign | A‑Frame/T‑Frame maximum height 45 in (~3.75 ft). | — | A‑Frame/T‑Frame maximum width 31 in. | A‑Frame/T‑Frame: minimum 5 ft from edge of curb (1 ft minimum in Heritage Village Center and Gateway Zoning Districts). 30 ft from access drive or street intersection. 20 ft from any other A‑Frame/T‑Frame/Flying Banner. | Combined maximum 4 (A‑Frame + T‑Frame + Flying Banners) per business. | On private property or public sidewalk/ROW adjacent to the parcel or business advertised; at grade; not in raised/painted medians, equestrian or multi‑use trails, parking aisles/stalls, driving lanes or driveways; not across the street from the advertised business. | — | Unlock | 5.6.9.B.1(a)–(d); Tables 5.6.9.B (both) |
| Flying Banner Sign | 15 ft maximum height. | 12 sq ft per side. | — | Minimum 4 ft or equal to height from edge of curb; 20 ft from other temporary devices; not in sight triangle. | Combined maximum 4 (with A‑Frame/T‑Frame) per business. | On private property or public sidewalk/ROW adjacent to business; not in raised/painted medians, trails, etc. | — | Unlock | 5.6.9.B and Table 5.6.9.B |
| Banner Sign (Temporary) | 8 ft max when displayed as freestanding/ground sign. | 40 sq ft per side for occupancies up to 5,000 sq ft; 80 sq ft per side for 5,001–15,000 sq ft; 120 sq ft per side for 15,001–50,000 sq ft; 180 sq ft per side for occupancies greater than 50,000 sq ft. | — | 3 ft minimum from property line for ground banner; spacing 15 ft from any other sign; not allowed in sight visibility triangle; not on public ROW. | Maximum 1 banner per parcel/business. | On private property; may be wall‑mounted or freestanding/ground; not on public sidewalk/right‑of‑way; not in sight visibility triangle. | — | Unlock | 5.6.9.C Table 5.6.9.C Banner Sign: Criteria and Limitations |
| Temporary Residential Subdivision Sign – Primary Entry | 8 ft maximum. | 32 sq ft per sign; aggregate maximum 256 sq ft across all three categories (Primary, Model, Perimeter). | — | 10 ft minimum from ROW (5 ft if <32 sq ft); not in sight visibility triangle; not in ROW. | Maximum 1 per primary entry. | At primary entries to recorded subdivision plat (single‑family residential district) for each builder, in conjunction with valid model home complex building permit. | — | Unlock | 5.6.9.G Table 5.6.9.H Temporary Residential Subdivision Signs |
| Off‑Site Temporary Sign on Private Property (10+ Acre Unimproved Parcel) | 8 ft maximum height. | 32 sq ft maximum sign area. | — | Minimum 10 ft from property line/right‑of‑way; 100 ft spacing from any other sign; not in sight triangle; not on public ROW. | Maximum 1 per 10+ acre unimproved parcel. | On unimproved private parcels of at least 10 acres in any zoning district; not on public sidewalk/ROW; not within sight visibility triangle. | — | Unlock | 5.6.9.H Table 5.6.9.I |
Commercial (covers: Neighborhood Commercial (NC); Community Commercial (CC); Shopping Center (SC); General Commercial (GC); Regional Commercial (RC); plus land‑use level "Commercial")
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Max Width | Setback | Signs Allowed | Location | Permit Required | Premium Details(Illumination, Size Formula, Permit Requirements, Additional Requirements — available with a free PermitPal account) | Ordinance Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freestanding Monument Sign – Commercial | 12 ft maximum to top of design embellishments. | 60 sq ft maximum (one side counted). | — | Minimum 3 ft from ROW; 100 ft separation from other monument signs. | Base 1; +1 for 250–399 ft frontage; +1 for each additional 300 ft frontage. | On any commercial lot or parcel with minimum 100 ft street frontage; at least 3 ft from ROW; not within public utility easement; 100 ft apart from other monument signs. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.1 Table 5.6.11.C.1 – Commercial column |
| Multi‑Family Entry Sign – Commercial Site (for Multi‑Family Use on Commercial Parcel) | 8 ft. | 32 sq ft. | — | 3 ft from ROW. | 2 per development. | At primary entries to multi‑family developments located in Commercial zoning or on mixed‑use sites. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.3 Table 5.6.11.C.3 – Commercial column |
| Tower Sign – Commercial (RC and GC only) | 15 ft maximum height. | 80 sq ft maximum sign area (one side counted); may be increased by additional 20 sq ft for identification of tenants/occupants of suites ≤5,000 sq ft. | — | — | 1 per 500 ft frontage, but total Tower+Monument ≤1 per 300 ft frontage. | Commercial parcels zoned RC or GC only, with >40 net acres; must abut a freeway. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.4 Table 5.6.11.C.4 – Tower Sign – Commercial column |
| Freeway Sign – Commercial | 60 ft above grade OR 30 ft above grade of nearest lane of main freeway travel surface, whichever greater. | 500 sq ft maximum sign area per sign (one side counted, may be increased by 20% for center identification). | — | Within 100 ft of freeway ROW; at least 150 ft from freeway ROW and adjacent property line where that adjacent property designated retail or residential; 400 ft separation from other freeway signs. | 1 per 400 ft of freeway frontage. | On commercial properties with at least 15 acres and freeway frontage; sign must abut a freeway and be within 100 ft of freeway ROW; sign face must make an interior angle of more than 30 degrees to the freeway; must be 150 ft from freeway ROW where property line adjacent to land designated retail or residential in General Plan. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.5 Table 5.6.11.C.5 – Freeway Sign – Commercial column |
| On‑Site Traffic Directional Sign – Commercial | 3 ft maximum height. | 3 sq ft maximum (one side counted). | — | 25 ft from ROW. | — | On‑site, outside required Perimeter Landscape Area. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.6 Table 5.6.11.C.6 – Commercial column |
| Directory Sign – Commercial | 6 ft maximum height (Commercial column). | Sign area: only one side counted; maximum total area not explicitly given in main table for Commercial, but second table gives generic maxima by zone. Main table suggests directory signs are 1 per 4 commercial tenants. | — | 75 ft from ROW, except adjacent commercial/employment with cross‑access. | 1 per 4 commercial tenants or uses. | On‑site within islands or pedestrian areas, or integrated into building design or elsewhere on site (outside easements). | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.7 Table 5.6.11.C.7 Directory Sign – Commercial column |
| Drive‑Through Sign – Commercial | 7 ft maximum height. | 50 sq ft maximum sign allowance area per sign. | — | — | 2 per drive‑through lane. | At commercial uses with drive‑through lanes; sign may be wall‑mounted or ground‑mounted along drive‑through lane. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.8 Table 5.6.11.C.8 – Drive‑Through Sign – Commercial column |
| Entrance Sign – Restaurant Entrance (Commercial) | 6 ft maximum height. | 6 sq ft maximum. | — | — | 1 per restaurant entrance. | Installed within 10 ft of main restaurant entrance. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.E.7 Table 5.6.11.E.7 – Commercial column |
Employment (covers: Business Park (BP); Light Industrial (LI); General Industrial (GI); land‑use level "Employment")
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Max Width | Setback | Signs Allowed | Location | Permit Required | Premium Details(Illumination, Size Formula, Permit Requirements, Additional Requirements — available with a free PermitPal account) | Ordinance Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flagpole – Employment | 1.5 × maximum district height, up to 50 ft. | — | — | — | 3 poles <0.5 ac; +2 per additional acre; 2 flags per pole. | Per DR Site Plan or Sign Plan on BP, LI, GI parcels. | — | Unlock | 5.6.8.G – Employment column |
| Freestanding Monument Sign – Employment | 12 ft to top of design embellishments. | 60 sq ft maximum area (one side counted). | — | 3 ft from ROW; 100 ft separation from other monument signs. | Base 1; plus per frontage increments. | On employment parcel with ≥100 ft frontage; at least 3 ft from ROW; not in PUE; 100 ft separation from other monuments. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.1 – Employment column |
| Tower Sign – Employment | 15 ft maximum height. | 80 sq ft maximum; may be increased by 20 sq ft for identification of tenants/occupants of suites ≤5,000 sq ft. | — | — | 1 per 500 ft frontage; Tower+Monument ≤1 per 300 ft frontage; 300 ft separation. | Only in MU/L & MU/R for Tower sign according to table; Employment column shows Yes in permitted row, but acreage/zoning rows appear targeted at RC/GC and MU/L/R. For pure Employment (BP/LI/GI), practice may require additional review; but table indicates "Yes" under Employment for Permitted row in second half, sign area, separation etc. Sign location: abutting freeway. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.4 – Employment column |
| Freeway Sign – Employment | 60 ft above grade or 30 ft above grade of nearest main freeway lane, whichever greater. | 500 sq ft maximum; may be increased by 20% for center identification. | — | Within 100 ft of freeway ROW; 150 ft buffer to freeway ROW & adjacent retail/residential designated property; 400 ft separation from other freeway signs. | 1 per 400 ft freeway frontage. | On employment parcels (Office/Employment categories) of at least 15 ac (for Office) abutting freeway; must be within 100 ft of freeway ROW; sign face must make interior angle >30° to freeway; at least 150 ft from freeway ROW and property line adjacent to retail or residential in General Plan; 400 ft apart from any other freeway sign on same property. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.5 – Office & Employment columns |
| On‑Site Traffic Directional Sign – Employment | 3 ft. | 3 sq ft (one side counted). | — | 25 ft from ROW. | — | On‑site outside perimeter landscape area. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.6 – Employment |
| Directory Sign – Employment | 6 ft maximum (Employment column). | 40 sq ft maximum per sign (Employment column). | — | 75 ft from ROW except as noted. | 1 per 4 tenants/uses. | On‑site as directory for tenants/uses. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.7 – Directory Sign – Employment column |
| Drive‑Through Sign – Employment | 7 ft. | 50 sq ft per sign. | — | — | 2 per lane. | At employment sites with drive‑through (e.g., industrial drive‑through gate kiosks). | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.C.8 – Employment column |
| Entrance Signs & Others – Employment | 6 ft for restaurant and service/delivery entrance signs. | Tenant entrance: 3 sq ft; restaurant entrance (if present): 6 sq ft, 6 ft high; service/delivery: 6 sq ft, 6 ft high. | — | — | 1 per entrance. | At entrances and service/delivery access points on employment sites. | — | Unlock | 5.6.11.E.6–E.8 – Employment column |
PermitPal covers all 12 zoning districts in Gilbert — full sign requirements for every zone, plus illumination rules, size formulas, and permit requirements for every sign type — with a free account.
See all 12 zones for Gilbert — start freeProhibited Signs in Gilbert
- The following signs are prohibited in the Town of Gilbert unless protected by state statute, federal law, or otherwise allowed in this section or Temporary Uses: Abandoned Signs; Balloon Signs; Billboards; Blinking Signs; Flashing Signs; Inflatable Signs; Intermittent Signs; Moving Signs; Off-site Commercial Signs; Pole Signs; Reflective Signs; Rotating Signs; Signs emitting any sound that is intended to attract attention; Signs attached or painted on trees, rocks or natural features; Signs in the right-of-way; Signs installed, attached or painted on fences; Signs or sign support structures that obstruct means of egress including any fire escape, window, door opening, stairway, opening, exit, walkway, utility access or Fire Department connection; Signs that interfere with any opening required for ventilation; Signs resembling Traffic Control Device Signs; Signs with exposed raceways; Snipe or Bandit Signs; Illegal Vehicle Signs.
- No sign or sign structure shall be subject to any limitation based upon the viewpoint of the message contained on such sign or displayed on such sign structure (viewpoint neutrality).
- Any sign may contain noncommercial copy in lieu of commercial copy, but substitution of copy may not change the size, height, setback or spacing criteria for the sign.
- Except as required by state law, no sign may be displayed without the consent of the legal owner of the property on which the sign is mounted or displayed.
- Except as required by state law or otherwise permitted in the sign regulations, any sign installed or placed on public property is illegal, forfeited to the public, subject to confiscation, and removal costs are recoverable from the owner or person placing the sign.
- Permanent signs shall not project into or over the public right-of-way without first obtaining a license or encroachment permit from the Town.
- The lowest portion of any sign extending over an area intended for pedestrian use shall be at least 8 feet above finished grade.
- The lowest portion of any sign extending over an area intended for vehicular use shall be at least 14 feet above finished grade.
- Any sign placed on a sidewalk or other public right-of-way shall comply with the sign regulations and the applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
- Except for appropriately placed Traffic Control Device Signs, no sign shall be placed in the sight visibility triangle.
- Signs shall maintain a minimum distance of 6 feet horizontal clearance and 12 feet overhead clearance from electrical conductors and from all communications equipment or lines.
- Signs and their supporting structures shall maintain clearance from and avoid interference with all surface and underground facilities and conduits for water, sewage, electricity, or communications equipment or lines.
- Sign placement shall not interfere with surface or underground water or with natural or artificial drainage.
- Signs shall not be attached to standpipes, gutters, drains, or fire escapes.
- Signs shall not be installed so as to impair access to a roof.
- Signs may not be constructed, installed, attached, placed, painted, altered, relocated, or otherwise maintained without first obtaining a sign permit unless specifically exempted.
- Signs shall be installed, placed, and maintained only in compliance with the sign regulations; signs maintained contrary to the provisions are declared nuisances and may be abated.
- Any outdoor internally illuminated sign must have an opaque background with translucent letters or graphics, or a solid colored background with contrasting letters or graphics; other configurations are not permitted.
- No sign located within 50 feet of a single-family zoning district shall be illuminated.
- Electronic Changing Message Displays may not change more frequently than once every 8 seconds (except where unlimited motion is expressly allowed) and must change by instant-change methods only.
- Electronic Changing Message Displays must be equipped with photocell/light sensors and automatic dimming to keep brightness no greater than 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light at the property line; malfunctioning displays must be repaired or disconnected within 48 hours.
- A Temporary Sign is illegal if it does not meet the criteria established for the zoning district in which it is located as set forth in the ordinance tables.
- Temporary Signs (including most categories listed) are not allowed within a sight visibility triangle.
- Temporary Signs (including most categories listed) are not allowed on public sidewalks or within the public right-of-way, except where expressly allowed for specific sign types under detailed criteria.
- Temporary Signs may not incorporate fluorescent colors or exhibition of fluorescence where the tables specify 'No' for that characteristic.
- Temporary Signs (general table, A-frame/T-frame, Flying Banner, Banner, Temporary Residential Subdivision, Off-site Temporary) may not be illuminated.
- Temporary Signs (general table, A-frame/T-frame, Banner, Temporary Residential Subdivision, Off-site Temporary) may not include movement except where expressly allowed for Flying Banner Signs.
- A-Frame and T-Frame Signs shall not be placed in raised or painted medians, affixed to the ground with stakes fastened to or driven into concrete, placed across the street from the business being advertised, or placed on equestrian or multi-use trails.
- A-Frame and T-Frame Signs may not obstruct more than one-third of the width of a public sidewalk and must always maintain at least 4 feet of sidewalk clearance.
- A-Frame and T-Frame Signs and Flying Banners are not allowed within a sight visibility triangle.
- Banner Signs are not allowed on public sidewalks or in the public right-of-way.
- Sign Walkers are prohibited in raised or painted medians, parking aisles or stalls, driving lanes or driveways, and on equestrian or multi-use trails.
- Sign Walkers may not obstruct sidewalks or walkways so that less than 4 feet of clear passage remains or otherwise create a hazard to pedestrian traffic.
- Sign Walkers may not stand on or attach signs to fences, boulders, planters, other signs, vehicles, utility facilities, or any structure.
- Sign Walkers must remain at least 20 feet away from any other sign walker.
- Sign Walkers may not physically interact with motorists, pedestrians, or bicyclists.
- Sign Walkers may not use any illumination (including flashing, blinking, or rotating), animation on the sign itself, mirrors or reflective materials, or attachments such as balloons, ribbons, or speakers.
- A Temporary Residential Subdivision Sign is illegal if it does not meet the applicable criteria and limitations for number, size, duration, and placement.
- Off-site Temporary Signs on private property are illegal if they do not meet the parcel size, setback, spacing, duration, non-illumination, and movement restrictions in the ordinance.
- Except for Changing Message Displays and Marquee Signs, any flashing, blinking, reflective, animated, or rotating lights, or signs with intermittent or varying intensity of illumination, whether deliberate or due to defects, are prohibited for all signs.
- Exposed light sources (neon, tube, incandescent, LED, fluorescent, metal halide, high/low sodium, mercury vapor) used to illuminate signs are only allowed for commercial uses in Commercial, Heritage Village Center, and Gateway Village Center zoning districts and are prohibited elsewhere.
- Light bulbs or tubes (excluding permitted neon/decorative bulbs/tubing) used for external illumination of signs shall not be visible from abutting public rights-of-way and residential properties.
- No permanent sign in a residential district may be separately or specially illuminated unless otherwise specified.
- In single-family zoning districts, A-Frame and T-Frame Signs are prohibited except when used in conjunction with non-residential uses.
- Any sign or component that is damaged, deteriorated, or constitutes a danger or hazard to public safety must be promptly repaired or replaced; unsafe signs may be ordered removed immediately by the building official.
- Nonconforming signs that are structurally changed or damaged by more than 50 percent of reproduction value may only be rebuilt, repaired, or replaced in conformance with current sign regulations.
- If a property or development is expanded or modified to add new signage, all nonconforming signs must be removed or rebuilt to comply; no change adding or changing existing signage is allowed until nonconforming signs are brought into compliance.
- Signs in violation of the sign regulations are subject to notice of violation, removal, and recovery of removal/repair costs by the Town.
- Temporary Signs placed within the right-of-way may be removed immediately by the Town without notice.
- For repeated violations involving A-Frame, T-Frame, and Flying Banner Signs, the Town may confiscate, prohibit further use of these signs for that business, and ultimately seek misdemeanor penalties and fines.
Exempt Signs in Gilbert
- Government Signs, including signs erected by the Town for government purposes, are exempt from regulation under the sign section.
- Signs located entirely inside the premises of a building or enclosed space, other than Window Signs, are exempt from regulation under the sign section.
- Signs on a vehicle, other than an Illegal Vehicle Sign, are exempt from regulation under the sign section.
- Traffic Control Device Signs are exempt from regulation under the sign section.
- Signs protected by state statute, including but not limited to political signs under A.R.S. § 16-1019 and sign walkers under A.R.S. § 9-499.13, are exempt from regulation under the sign section to the extent of the statutory protection.
- Signs protected by federal law are exempt from regulation under the sign section to the extent of federal preemption.
- Aircraft Overflight Area Signs regulated under the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Overlay District are exempt from this sign section.
- Government Signs displaying government speech are specifically exempt from Temporary Sign regulations.
- Flags on residential or non-residential parcels may be externally illuminated and do not require a sign permit.
- Umbrella Signs do not require a sign permit and are not counted toward any maximum sign area for a use.
- Replacement of a tenant sign panel on an approved sign structure with removable panels, where the replacement panel matches the original in color, size, design, and style, does not require a sign permit.
- Maintenance of legal signs is allowed without a permit as long as maintenance does not alter the previously approved design.
Sign Plan & Submission Notes for Gilbert
- A Comprehensive Sign Plan (CSP) is required for all projects not located within the Heritage Village Center Zoning District and consisting of: multi-tenant buildings; non-residential complexes with multiple buildings; all mixed-use developments located within MU/S, MU/L, or MU/R zoning districts; and mixed-use developments or master site plans located in Commercial, Public Facilities/Institutional, or Employment zoning districts as permitted.
- A Comprehensive Sign Plan may be administratively approved by staff or elevated to the Design Review Board for approval.
- Existing Comprehensive Sign Plans may be administratively amended or elevated to the Design Review Board for approval.
- Signs that meet an existing Comprehensive Sign Plan’s locations and standards may proceed directly to permitting without further discretionary review.
- Conditions, requirements, or standards may be added to a Comprehensive Sign Plan approval to ensure the covered signs are not materially detrimental to persons or property.
- Signs that are not required by or included in a Comprehensive Sign Plan may proceed directly to permitting under the base standards.
- A Master Sign Plan (MSP) may be approved as an alternative to the standard permanent sign requirements and is intended for projects of 40 acres or more or for unique and special projects as determined by the Planning Manager.
- A Master Sign Plan is required for: multi-tenant commercial, office, or employment uses/complexes exceeding 40 acres; multi-tenant commercial, office, or employment uses/complexes that are unique in design and highly stylized; stand-alone office/employment buildings exceeding 100,000 square feet; indoor or outdoor entertainment and recreation uses; auto malls; hospitals; hotels and commercial lodging with at least 150 guest rooms and a full-service restaurant or conference/meeting rooms; regional retail shopping malls; and Planned Area Developments that have a uniquely special design concept.
- A Master Sign Plan must be approved by the Design Review Board.
- Under a Master Sign Plan, the Design Review Board may not reduce any minimum sign development standard by more than 50 percent or increase any maximum standard by more than 100 percent (double), subject to additional specific limits on freestanding and wall sign size.
- Changes to an existing Master Sign Plan may be administratively approved if limited to minor non-communicative changes with little or no visual impact and consistent with the original intent.
- Conditions, requirements, or standards may be added to a Master Sign Plan to ensure covered signs are not materially detrimental to persons or property.
- Master Sign Plan evaluation criteria address sign types, placement, quantity, size/dimensions, design features/materials, illumination, and development standards; these criteria guide discretionary approval.
- A Heritage Sign Plan is required within the Heritage Village Character Area for single-tenant commercial or office uses, multi-tenant commercial or office uses, and multi-building complexes.
- A Heritage Sign Plan must be approved by the Redevelopment Commission (RDC) when the plan is not consistent with standard Permanent Sign requirements; it may be approved administratively when the plan complies with all applicable requirements.
- Existing Heritage Sign Plans may be administratively amended for minor changes in design, color, or sign materials, but staff may elevate amendments to the RDC.
- Signs that meet an existing Heritage Sign Plan’s locations and standards may proceed directly to permitting.
- Conditions, requirements, or standards may be added to a Heritage Sign Plan to ensure that covered signs are not materially detrimental to persons or property.
- A Gateway Sign Plan is required in the Gateway Village Center (GVC) and Gateway Business Center (GBC) zoning districts for: single or multiple-tenant commercial or office uses; multi-building complexes for a single commercial use; and mixed-use developments within GVC or GBC.
- A Gateway Sign Plan may be administratively approved when it complies with all Permanent Sign Standards; increases in sign quantities, sizes, or significant style changes may require Redevelopment Commission (RDC) approval.
- Existing Gateway Sign Plans may be administratively amended for minor design, color, or material changes; more substantial changes may be elevated to RDC.
- Signs that meet an existing Gateway Sign Plan’s locations and standards may proceed directly to permitting.
- Conditions, requirements, or standards may be attached to a Gateway Sign Plan to ensure the signs are not materially detrimental to persons or property.
- Flagpole location standards provide that flagpole placement is determined per the Design Review site plan or as part of a Sign Plan, indicating that flagpoles may be governed by CSP/MSP/Heritage/Gateway plans where applicable.
- For 2-story buildings and for 3-story-or-more buildings, wall sign regulations specify that a Comprehensive Sign Plan, Master Sign Plan, Heritage Sign Plan, or Gateway Sign Plan (CSP, MSP, HSP, or GSP) is required for approval of upper-floor wall signage.
- Marquee Signs may only be placed on a marquee approved by the Planning Commission (PC) or Redevelopment Commission (RDC) and require approval within a CSP, MSP, HSP, or GSP.
- Projecting Roof Signs may exceed the default 25% height limit above the roofline/parapet only when the Planning Commission or RDC finds, typically as part of a sign plan, that the sign is incorporated into the building design.
- Heritage District Roof Signs in the Heritage Village Center require approval by the Redevelopment Commission (RDC), which must find that the roof sign is compatible with the building’s architectural design.
- The ordinance expressly states that certain sign configurations and allowances (such as multi-story wall signage and marquee signage) must be approved through a Comprehensive, Master, Heritage, or Gateway Sign Plan, establishing these plans as required entitlement mechanisms rather than optional in those contexts.
Source: other municipal code