Sign Regulations in Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth, New Hampshire has specific sign regulations covering 12 sign types across 7 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include Freestanding 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 22, 2026
Sign Regulation Overview for Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Sample Sign Requirements in Portsmouth
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freestanding Sign | Not permitted in Sign District 1 (Table 10.1253.10) | Not permitted in Sign District 1 (Table 10.1241) | Not applicable; freestanding signs prohibited in Sign District 1. |
| Wall Sign | — | 4 sq ft per individual wall sign. (Table 10.1251.20, Wall sign, Sign District 1) | No specific wall sign setback; must be on building wall. Projecting signs (if used instead of wall signs) must maintain 7 ft minimum clearance above grade. (10.1253.10). |
| Projecting Sign | — | 16 sq ft per projecting sign. (Table 10.1251.20, Projecting sign, Sign District 1). | Must maintain at least 1 ft horizontal distance from edge of vehicular travel way (10.1253.50). No specific setback from lot line beyond that; must maintain 7 ft minimum clearance above grade (10.1253.10). |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
Sign Types Covered
12
- Freestanding Sign
- Wall Sign
- Projecting Sign
- Awning Sign
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
7
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Official Resources for Portsmouth
Other Cities in New Hampshire
Frequently Asked Questions
In Portsmouth, monument signs are limited to Not permitted in Sign District 1 (Table 10.1253.10). 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 Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth, regulated sign types include Freestanding Sign, Wall Sign, Projecting Sign, Awning Sign, and 2 more types. Most commercial signs require permits. Temporary signs and certain small signs may be exempt. Use PermitPal for specific exemptions.
In Portsmouth, monument signs typically require a Not applicable; freestanding signs prohibited in Sign District 1. 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 Portsmouth are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. Portsmouth has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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