Sign Regulations in San Francisco, California
San Francisco, California has specific sign regulations covering 42 sign types across 26 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include Window Sign, Wall Sign, Projecting Sign. Height restrictions apply. Permits are required for most commercial signs. Use PermitPal to get instant access to the complete regulations.
Data last verified: February 20, 2026
Sign Regulation Overview for San Francisco, California
Sample Sign Requirements in San Francisco
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Prohibitions - General Advertising Signs | — | No new General Advertising Signs of any size allowed citywide. | — |
| Business Signs - Attached or Freestanding (Follow Nearest Non‑P, Non‑R District) | Same as nearest non‑Public, non‑Residential zoning district’s sign height limits. | Same as nearest non‑Public, non‑Residential zoning district’s sign limits (e.g., C, M, NC/RC, PDR, MU controls). | — |
| Name Plate | 12 ft or roofline height, whichever is less. | 1 sq ft per name plate. | No projection into required front setback or beyond street property line or legislated setback (Sec. 606(a)(1)). |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
Sign Types Covered
42
- Window Sign
- Wall Sign
- Projecting Sign
- Awning/Marquee Sign
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
26
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Official Resources for San Francisco
Other Cities in California
Frequently Asked Questions
In San Francisco, monument signs are limited to Same as nearest non‑Public, non‑Residential zoning district’s sign height limits.. 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 San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, regulated sign types include Window Sign, Wall Sign, Projecting Sign, Awning/Marquee Sign, and 2 more types. Most commercial signs require permits. Temporary signs and certain small signs may be exempt. Use PermitPal for specific exemptions.
Sign setback requirements in San Francisco vary by zone and sign type, typically ranging from 5-15 feet from property lines. Use PermitPal for specific setback requirements at your location.
Digital and LED signs in San Francisco are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. San Francisco has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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