Sign Regulations in Dearborn Heights, Michigan
Dearborn Heights, Michigan has specific sign regulations covering 28 sign types across 13 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include Residential Identification Sign (Single- and Two-Family, Townhouses), Monument Sign (Multiple-Family Residence), Monument Sign (Subdivision or Housing Complex). Height restrictions apply. Permits are required for most commercial signs. Use PermitPal to get instant access to the complete regulations.
Data last verified: May 15, 2026
Sign Regulation Overview for Dearborn Heights, Michigan
Sample Sign Requirements in Dearborn Heights
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential Identification Sign (Single- and Two-Family, Townhouses) | — | 1 sq ft total | — |
| Monument Sign (Multiple-Family Residence) | — | 12 sq ft (includes base) | — |
| Monument Sign (Subdivision or Housing Complex) | 8 ft | 50 sq ft | — |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
PermitPal Coverage for Dearborn HeightsFull Coverage
Sign Types Covered
28
- Residential Identification Sign (Single- and Two-Family, Townhouses)
- Monument Sign (Multiple-Family Residence)
- Monument Sign (Subdivision or Housing Complex)
- Temporary Real Estate Sign (Single- and Two-Family)
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
13
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Official Resources for Dearborn Heights
Other Cities in Michigan
Frequently Asked Questions
Sign height limits in Dearborn Heights vary by zone and sign type. Wall signs typically range from 25-40 feet, while monument signs are usually limited to 6-10 feet. Use PermitPal to get exact requirements for your property.
To get a sign permit in Dearborn Heights, 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 Dearborn Heights, regulated sign types include Residential Identification Sign (Single- and Two-Family, Townhouses), Monument Sign (Multiple-Family Residence), Monument Sign (Subdivision or Housing Complex), Temporary Real Estate Sign (Single- and Two-Family), 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 Dearborn Heights 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 Dearborn Heights are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. Dearborn Heights has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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Dearborn Heights, Michigan Sign Rules at a Glance
Dearborn Heights, Michigan regulates 28 sign types across 13 zoning districts. Monument Sign (Single Business)s in the RO-1 zoning district are capped at 8 ft (including foundation) tall and 36 sq ft, with a Located at the front property line. setback (Sec. Monument general standards Sec. 26-6(3)(b)1; site plan review requirement in definition of Freestanding Sign; pole sign prohibition Sec. 26-11(14); illumination Sec. 26-12; permit Sec. 26-16.). Most commercial signs in Dearborn Heights require a permit.
Detailed Sign Ordinance Requirements for Dearborn Heights, Michigan
Sign Rules by Zoning District in Dearborn Heights (13 zones)
| Zoning District | Sign Types Regulated | Max Height | Max Area | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R1-A | 4 | 8 ft | 50 sq ft | — |
| R1-B | 4 | 8 ft | 50 sq ft | — |
| R-2 | 4 | 8 ft | 50 sq ft | — |
| RM | 7 | 10 ft | 50 sq ft | — |
| RMA | 7 | 10 ft | 50 sq ft | — |
| RO-1 | 15 | Up to 16 ft (per formula) | 350 sq ft (see additional requirements below) | — |
| C-1 | 15 | Up to 16 ft (per formula) | 350 sq ft (see additional requirements below) | — |
| C-2 | 15 | Up to 16 ft (per formula) | 350 sq ft (see additional requirements below) | — |
| C-3 | 15 | Up to 16 ft (per formula) | 350 sq ft (see additional requirements below) | — |
| M-1 | 15 | Up to 16 ft (per formula) | 350 sq ft (see additional requirements below) | — |
| M-2 | 15 | Up to 16 ft (per formula) | 350 sq ft (see additional requirements below) | — |
| M-3 district | 1 | — | — | — |
| General Regulations For All Zones | 12 | — | 20 sq ft | — |
Zone-by-Zone Sign Requirements in Dearborn Heights(sample of 3 of 13 zones)
RO-1
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monument Sign (Subdivision or Housing Complex) | 8 ft | 50 sq ft | — | — | Max 2 total; not more than 1 per entrance | At subdivision/complex entrances on private property. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-5(3), made applicable to SCD IV–VII by Sec. 26-6(1); permit Sec. 26-16; illumination Sec. 26-12. |
| Temporary Real Estate Sign (Single- and Two-Family) | 6 ft | 5 sq ft | — | — | — | On private property at the dwelling or adjacent vacant lot. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-9(1)(a), made applicable to SCD IV–VII by Sec. 26-9(2)(a). |
| Exterior On-Premises Signs (Total Allowance per Ground-Floor Business) | — | Up to 200 sq ft total for all exterior on‑premises signs (subject to formula). | — | — | No specific numeric limit; controlled by total area and message unit limits | On the business premises. | — | Unlock | Area/message units and exceptions Sec. 26-6(2) and (5). Illumination Sec. 26-12. Permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Monument Sign (Single Business) | 8 ft (including foundation) | 36 sq ft | — | Located at the front property line. | — | At the front property line (placed at the front property line). | — | Unlock | Monument general standards Sec. 26-6(3)(b)1; site plan review requirement in definition of Freestanding Sign; pole sign prohibition Sec. 26-11(14); illumination Sec. 26-12; permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Monument Sign (Multiple Businesses Sharing One Monument) | Up to 16 ft (per formula) | Up to 72 sq ft (per formula) | — | Located at the front property line. | — | At the front property line (placed at the front property line). | — | Unlock | Monument exceptions for multiple businesses Sec. 26-6(3)(b)2; site plan review note in Freestanding Sign definition; pole sign prohibition Sec. 26-11(14); illumination Sec. 26-12; permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Off-Premises Sign (Freestanding) — SCD VI and SCD VII only | 8 ft (including base) | 350 sq ft (see additional requirements below) | — | At the front property line; and at least 50 ft from any SCD I–IV district boundary. | — | At the front property line in SCD VI or VII only. | — | Unlock | Off‑premises standards Sec. 26-8(1)–(3); billboard prohibition Sec. 26-11(15) and billboard definition (>200 sq ft) Sec. 26-3; illumination Sec. 26-12; permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Temporary Real Estate Sign (Other than Single-/Two-Family) | 10 ft | 12 sq ft | — | Set back at least 25 ft from the front property line unless attached to a permanent building. | — | On private property for properties other than single-/two-family houses. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-9(2)(b). |
| Temporary Construction Sign | 10 ft | 50 sq ft per street with vehicle entrance | — | At least 25 ft from the front property line unless attached as allowed. | — | On private property at sites currently being developed; may be attached to a building, construction fence, or barricade. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-9(2)(c); permit Sec. 26-16. |
C-1
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monument Sign (Subdivision or Housing Complex) | 8 ft | 50 sq ft | — | — | Max 2 total; not more than 1 per entrance | At subdivision/complex entrances on private property. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-5(3), made applicable to SCD IV–VII by Sec. 26-6(1); permit Sec. 26-16; illumination Sec. 26-12. |
| Temporary Real Estate Sign (Single- and Two-Family) | 6 ft | 5 sq ft | — | — | — | On private property at the dwelling or adjacent vacant lot. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-9(1)(a), made applicable to SCD IV–VII by Sec. 26-9(2)(a). |
| Exterior On-Premises Signs (Total Allowance per Ground-Floor Business) | — | Up to 200 sq ft total for all exterior on‑premises signs (subject to formula). | — | — | No specific numeric limit; controlled by total area and message unit limits | On the business premises. | — | Unlock | Area/message units and exceptions Sec. 26-6(2) and (5). Illumination Sec. 26-12. Permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Monument Sign (Single Business) | 8 ft (including foundation) | 36 sq ft | — | Located at the front property line. | — | At the front property line (placed at the front property line). | — | Unlock | Monument general standards Sec. 26-6(3)(b)1; site plan review requirement in definition of Freestanding Sign; pole sign prohibition Sec. 26-11(14); illumination Sec. 26-12; permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Monument Sign (Multiple Businesses Sharing One Monument) | Up to 16 ft (per formula) | Up to 72 sq ft (per formula) | — | Located at the front property line. | — | At the front property line (placed at the front property line). | — | Unlock | Monument exceptions for multiple businesses Sec. 26-6(3)(b)2; site plan review note in Freestanding Sign definition; pole sign prohibition Sec. 26-11(14); illumination Sec. 26-12; permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Off-Premises Sign (Freestanding) — SCD VI and SCD VII only | 8 ft (including base) | 350 sq ft (see additional requirements below) | — | At the front property line; and at least 50 ft from any SCD I–IV district boundary. | — | At the front property line in SCD VI or VII only. | — | Unlock | Off‑premises standards Sec. 26-8(1)–(3); billboard prohibition Sec. 26-11(15) and billboard definition (>200 sq ft) Sec. 26-3; illumination Sec. 26-12; permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Temporary Real Estate Sign (Other than Single-/Two-Family) | 10 ft | 12 sq ft | — | Set back at least 25 ft from the front property line unless attached to a permanent building. | — | On private property for properties other than single-/two-family houses. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-9(2)(b). |
| Temporary Construction Sign | 10 ft | 50 sq ft per street with vehicle entrance | — | At least 25 ft from the front property line unless attached as allowed. | — | On private property at sites currently being developed; may be attached to a building, construction fence, or barricade. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-9(2)(c); permit Sec. 26-16. |
C-2
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monument Sign (Subdivision or Housing Complex) | 8 ft | 50 sq ft | — | — | Max 2 total; not more than 1 per entrance | At subdivision/complex entrances on private property. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-5(3), made applicable to SCD IV–VII by Sec. 26-6(1); permit Sec. 26-16; illumination Sec. 26-12. |
| Temporary Real Estate Sign (Single- and Two-Family) | 6 ft | 5 sq ft | — | — | — | On private property at the dwelling or adjacent vacant lot. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-9(1)(a), made applicable to SCD IV–VII by Sec. 26-9(2)(a). |
| Exterior On-Premises Signs (Total Allowance per Ground-Floor Business) | — | Up to 200 sq ft total for all exterior on‑premises signs (subject to formula). | — | — | No specific numeric limit; controlled by total area and message unit limits | On the business premises. | — | Unlock | Area/message units and exceptions Sec. 26-6(2) and (5). Illumination Sec. 26-12. Permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Monument Sign (Single Business) | 8 ft (including foundation) | 36 sq ft | — | Located at the front property line. | — | At the front property line (placed at the front property line). | — | Unlock | Monument general standards Sec. 26-6(3)(b)1; site plan review requirement in definition of Freestanding Sign; pole sign prohibition Sec. 26-11(14); illumination Sec. 26-12; permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Monument Sign (Multiple Businesses Sharing One Monument) | Up to 16 ft (per formula) | Up to 72 sq ft (per formula) | — | Located at the front property line. | — | At the front property line (placed at the front property line). | — | Unlock | Monument exceptions for multiple businesses Sec. 26-6(3)(b)2; site plan review note in Freestanding Sign definition; pole sign prohibition Sec. 26-11(14); illumination Sec. 26-12; permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Off-Premises Sign (Freestanding) — SCD VI and SCD VII only | 8 ft (including base) | 350 sq ft (see additional requirements below) | — | At the front property line; and at least 50 ft from any SCD I–IV district boundary. | — | At the front property line in SCD VI or VII only. | — | Unlock | Off‑premises standards Sec. 26-8(1)–(3); billboard prohibition Sec. 26-11(15) and billboard definition (>200 sq ft) Sec. 26-3; illumination Sec. 26-12; permit Sec. 26-16. |
| Temporary Real Estate Sign (Other than Single-/Two-Family) | 10 ft | 12 sq ft | — | Set back at least 25 ft from the front property line unless attached to a permanent building. | — | On private property for properties other than single-/two-family houses. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-9(2)(b). |
| Temporary Construction Sign | 10 ft | 50 sq ft per street with vehicle entrance | — | At least 25 ft from the front property line unless attached as allowed. | — | On private property at sites currently being developed; may be attached to a building, construction fence, or barricade. | — | Unlock | Sec. 26-9(2)(c); permit Sec. 26-16. |
PermitPal covers all 13 zoning districts in Dearborn Heights — full sign requirements for every zone, plus illumination rules, size formulas, and permit requirements for every sign type — with a free account.
See all 13 zones for Dearborn Heights — start freeProhibited Signs in Dearborn Heights
- Signs illuminated by flashing or moving lights (except compliant barber poles and compliant LED displays).
- Exterior banners, pennants, spinners, and streamers.
- Exterior string lights on commercial premises, except holiday decorations for up to 60 consecutive days.
- Any sign with visible motion other than permitted flags or banners.
- Structurally or electrically unsafe, dilapidated, abandoned, non-operational, or poorly maintained signs.
- Any sign erected, affixed, or painted on public property, public trees, traffic control signs, light/utility poles or related equipment, or within a public easement/right-of-way.
- Any business sign or sign structure that no longer advertises a bona fide business or product.
- Portable signs (except portable real estate 'open house' signs permitted by Sec. 26-10(2)).
- Any sign painted directly on a building or colors painted on a commercial building that are not in harmony with existing buildings.
- Any sign on a motor vehicle or trailer parked in front of a business for the purpose of advertising a business or its products/services located on the premises.
- Any sign on a motor vehicle or trailer projecting more than 15 inches from the vehicle surface when visible from a public street.
- Any sign structure or frame (including supporting poles) that no longer contains a sign.
- Roof signs.
- Pole signs.
- Billboards.
- Home occupation signs.
- No sign may overhang any public right-of-way.
- No illuminated sign is permitted on the rear building elevation or in a rear yard where adjacent or across-the-alley property is residentially zoned (except approved parking lot directional signs and lighting standards).
Exempt Signs in Dearborn Heights
- Address numbers: one per building front (residential numerals 3–8 inches; business numerals 5–24 inches); one rear address for businesses (3–24 inches); not counted as message units.
- Portable real estate 'open house' signs up to 5 sq ft, displayed only 2 days in any 7-day period.
- Political signs up to 4.5 sq ft: not earlier than 30 days before the election; remove within 5 days after; prohibited on public property/ROW, poles/equipment, public trees, and private vacant property without owner consent.
- Garage/rummage/yard/estate/lawn sale signs up to 3 sq ft, posted only for the 3 days of the sale; not on public property/ROW, poles/equipment, or public trees.
- Authorized signs of the state or a political subdivision.
- Institutional signs (religious institution, school, museum, community recreational facility, library) indicating name/current displays/activities up to 20 sq ft.
- Memorial signs/tablets; names of buildings and date of erection when cut into masonry or made of bronze/other incombustible material affixed to a building.
- Flags bearing the official design of a nation, state, municipality, educational institution, or noncommercial organization.
- Permanent signs on vending machines or ice containers indicating only contents, up to 6 sq ft per device; no signs on or affixed to gas pumps.
- Noncommercial informational signs up to 6 sq ft each (e.g., restrooms, telephone, no smoking, door openings, private traffic-control and parking).
- Interior 'for sale/for rent' signs up to 4 sq ft.
- Historic plaques or signs up to 2 sq ft designating a building as a historical structure.
- Residential construction builder identification signs up to 6 sq ft, erected after building permit issuance and removed at completion or occupancy.
- Temporary signs for religious or non-profit organizations up to 6 sq ft for no more than 14 consecutive days; not on public property/ROW, poles/equipment, public trees, or authorized government signs.
- Permit exemptions: ordinary servicing, repainting of existing sign message, cleaning; and change of message on a sign designed for periodic message change without structural change (including bulletin boards and billboards, but not attaching a new permanent face).
Sign Permit Fees & Timelines in Dearborn Heights
| Item | Details | Citation |
|---|---|---|
| Sign Erector Registration | $35 | cite: 7 |
| See all Dearborn Heights sign permit fees & timelines — start free | ||
Source: municode municipal code