Sign Regulations in Frisco, Texas
Frisco, Texas has specific sign regulations covering 55 sign types across 9 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include Monument (Individual) Sign (MIS), Wall Sign, Portable Variable Message Display (PVMD). Height restrictions apply. Permits are required for most commercial signs. Use PermitPal to get instant access to the complete regulations.
Data last verified: April 27, 2026
Sign Regulation Overview for Frisco, Texas
Sample Sign Requirements in Frisco
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calculation of Sign Areas and Heights - All Signs | Freestanding sign height measured from lowest ground point below sign to highest point; exception: if adjacent roadway has higher grade, measure from roadway grade. | — | — |
| Awning/Canopy Sign - Nonresidential | 48 inches max sign height | — | — |
| Monument (Individual) Sign (MIS) | 8 ft max | 60 sq ft max | — |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
PermitPal Coverage for FriscoFull Coverage
Sign Types Covered
55
- Monument (Individual) Sign (MIS)
- Wall Sign
- Portable Variable Message Display (PVMD)
- Inflatable Device Sign (IDS)
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
9
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Other Cities in Texas
Frequently Asked Questions
In Frisco, monument signs are limited to 8 ft max. 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 Frisco, 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 Frisco, regulated sign types include Monument (Individual) Sign (MIS), Wall Sign, Portable Variable Message Display (PVMD), Inflatable Device Sign (IDS), 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 Frisco 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 Frisco are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. Frisco has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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Frisco, Texas Sign Rules at a Glance
Frisco, Texas regulates 55 sign types across 9 zoning districts. A-frame/Sidewalk Signs in the Nonresidential zoning districts (All Listed Nonresidential Base Zones: O-1, O-2, R, OTC*, H, C-1, C-2, IT, I) zoning district are capped at 4 ft tall and 12 sq ft, with a ≥ 3 ft from curb; maintain 4 ft pedestrian clearance setback (Sec. § 70-17(1)(A)-(C)). Most commercial signs in Frisco require a permit.
Detailed Sign Ordinance Requirements for Frisco, Texas
Sign Rules by Zoning District in Frisco (9 zones)
| Zoning District | Sign Types Regulated | Max Height | Max Area | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Regulations For All Zones | 5 | Freestanding sign height measured from lowest ground point below sign to highest point; exception: if adjacent roadway has higher grade, measure from roadway grade. | — | — |
| Nonresidential zoning districts (All Listed Nonresidential Base Zones: O-1, O-2, R, OTC*, H, C-1, C-2, IT, I) | 23 | 48 inches max sign height | 96 sq ft (see note) | — |
| Mixed-use zoning districts / MIXED | 11 | 30 ft | Signage on kiosk structure signs shall not exceed 75 sq ft | — |
| Residential zoning districts (All Listed Residential Base Zones: AG, RE, SF-16, SF-12.5, SF-10, SF-8.5, SF-7, OTR, PH, 2F, TH, MF-15, MF-19, MH) | 11 | 30 ft | 96 sq ft (property frontage); 60 sq ft if placed in public right-of-way via plan approval | — |
| Original town commercial (OTC) zoning district | 1 | — | — | — |
| Planned development district | 1 | — | — | — |
| Mixed-use planned development | 1 | ≤ 60 ft (inclusive of supporting structure) | Primary display sign face: ≤ 700 sq ft; Supporting structure facade section (inclusive of sign face): ≤ 1,500 sq ft | — |
| Unified development zone | 2 | 16 ft | Per formula (max 168 sq ft) | — |
| Single-family residential zoning district | 8 | 16 ft (property frontage); 10 ft in ROW via plan approval | 96 sq ft (property frontage); 60 sq ft in ROW via plan approval | — |
Zone-by-Zone Sign Requirements in Frisco(sample of 3 of 9 zones)
Nonresidential zoning districts (All Listed Nonresidential Base Zones: O-1, O-2, R, OTC*, H, C-1, C-2, IT, I)
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awning/Canopy Sign - Nonresidential | 48 inches max sign height | — | May extend the length of the canopy/awning; shall not extend horizontally past the edge | — | — | Flush against face of awning/canopy or suspended from/extended above the edge; shall not extend above adjacent building roofline. Permitted only in nonresidential zoning districts. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(1)(A)-(C) |
| Monument (Individual) Sign (MIS) | 8 ft max | 60 sq ft max | — | — | Max one MIS per street frontage | Permitted in nonresidential zoning districts and on lots in residential districts containing multifamily, daycare, school, community center, amenity center, marketing center, or religious facility uses. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(8)(A)-(C) |
| Wall Sign | Per Table 1 | Per Table 1 based on building height and actual sign height | Per Table 1 maximum % of wall length/height and widths | — | Per multi-story office special conditions: 3 signs per elevation per floor above ground; only one vertical sign per elevation | Permitted in nonresidential zoning districts and on lots within residential zoning districts containing multifamily, daycare, school, community center, amenity center, marketing center or religious uses. Not on parapet walls unless parapet extends around entire perimeter at same elevation or appears part of building envelope. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(18)(A)-(E) |
| Changeable Framed Box Wall Signs | — | 6 sq ft per sign (theaters: 9 sq ft each, up to 1.5 times number of screens/productions) | Projection limit 4 inches when located less than 6 ft above grade | — | One per elevation; theaters as noted | One framed changeable box sign may be placed on each elevation of a building | — | Unlock | § 70-16(18)(E) |
| Panel Sign - Nonresidential (For Sale/Lease) | 16 ft | 32 sq ft | — | — | Max two per major street frontage | Permitted only in nonresidential zoning districts; may be located on property where owner consents that is being offered for sale or lease or for individual unit(s) for sale or lease. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(16)(B)(i); § 70-16(16)(C) |
| Panel Sign - Nonresidential (Under Construction) | 16 ft | 96 sq ft (see note) | — | — | One per major street frontage under construction allowance | On property with major street frontage where owner consents and valid permits/site plans for construction are approved and issued. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(16)(B)(ii); § 70-16(16)(C) |
| Portable Variable Message Display (PVMD) | 14 ft | 50 sq ft sign area | — | — | Not more than one PVMD installed along a street frontage at any given time | Only on the lot where the user is located; not in accessible parking places, driveways providing access to parking or fire lanes; may not encroach into public right-of-way. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(17)(A)-(C) |
| A-frame/Sidewalk Sign | 4 ft | 12 sq ft | — | ≥ 3 ft from curb; maintain 4 ft pedestrian clearance | Max one per business/activity/use | Must be ≥ 3 ft from any curb of adjacent street/drive aisle and within 40 ft of the main entrance to the business. Provide unobstructed pedestrian clearance of at least 4 ft; must not interfere with vehicular traffic or cause hazard. Permitted only in nonresidential and mixed-use districts and in noncommercial/nonresidential uses within residential districts. | — | Unlock | § 70-17(1)(A)-(C) |
Mixed-use zoning districts / MIXED
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Banner (Pole and Building) Sign - Mixed Use | — | 16 sq ft per banner | — | — | Max two per light pole standard or building elevation | Max two banners per light pole standard or building elevation. Display limited to noncommercial messages, artwork, or special district event information. Only permitted within mixed-use developments. | — | Unlock | § 70-17(3)(A)-(C) |
| Banner (Wall) Sign | Per Table 1 | Shall not exceed dimensions allowed for wall signs per Table 1 | Per Table 1 | — | One banner per building at any time; four 14-day periods per calendar year (periods may be combined) | Only on primary entrance elevations or elevations facing major thoroughfares. Permitted in mixed-use zoning districts (also in nonresidential and in noncommercial/nonresidential uses within residential districts). | — | Unlock | § 70-16(2)(A)-(C) |
| Directional Sign - Mixed Use | — | 36 sq ft | — | Bottom of sign ≥ 7 ft above ground | — | May be freestanding, mounted to a wall, projecting or mounted to a vertical support. Only permitted in mixed-use developments. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(5)(A)-(C) |
| Kiosk Structure Sign - Mixed Use | If anchored in public right-of-way: 15 ft max | Signage on kiosk structure signs shall not exceed 75 sq ft | — | — | — | Freestanding kiosk structures may be anchored within the public right-of-way if approved by the city or erected on individual property. Only permitted within mixed-use developments. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(7)(A)-(C) |
| A-frame/Sidewalk Sign | 4 ft | 12 sq ft | — | ≥ 3 ft from curb; ≥ 4 ft pedestrian clearance | Max one per business/activity/use | ≥ 3 ft from curb; within 40 ft of main entrance; maintain ≥ 4 ft pedestrian clearance; must not interfere with traffic or cause hazard. | — | Unlock | § 70-17(1)(A)-(C) |
| Portable Variable Message Display (PVMD) | 14 ft | 50 sq ft | — | — | Not more than one installed along a street frontage at any given time | On lot of user; not in accessible parking or driveways; no encroachment into public ROW. Mixed-use properties are considered nonresidential; allowed. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(17)(A)-(C); § 70-29 (Nonresidential zoning district definition) |
| Monument (Individual) Sign (MIS) | 8 ft | 60 sq ft | — | — | Max one MIS per street frontage | Mixed-use properties considered nonresidential; permitted. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(8)(A)-(C); § 70-29 (Nonresidential zoning district definition) |
| Wall Sign | Per Table 1 | Per Table 1 | Per Table 1 | — | Per multi-story office rules | Mixed-use considered nonresidential; permitted. Not on parapet walls unless parapet extends around entire perimeter or appears part of building envelope. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(18)(A)-(E); § 70-29 (Nonresidential zoning district definition) |
Residential zoning districts (All Listed Residential Base Zones: AG, RE, SF-16, SF-12.5, SF-10, SF-8.5, SF-7, OTR, PH, 2F, TH, MF-15, MF-19, MH)
| 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 (Residential) Sign (MRS) | 4 ft | 32 sq ft | — | — | One per model home property; entrances per plan | On private property within a residential zoning district only at subdivision entrances; may be placed in public right-of-way with approval of a sign coordination plan. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(10)(A)-(C) |
| Panel Sign - Residential | 16 ft (property frontage); 10 ft (public right-of-way via plan approval) | 96 sq ft (property frontage); 60 sq ft if placed in public right-of-way via plan approval | — | — | One per property frontage unless additional via plan | On property having major street frontage. May be located in public right-of-way through approval of a sign coordination plan. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(15)(A)-(C) |
| Wall Sign (Residential Uses on Lot with Nonresidential/Noncommercial Use) | Per Table 1 | Per Table 1 | Per Table 1 | — | — | On lots within residential zoning districts containing multifamily, daycare, school, community center, amenity center, marketing center or religious uses. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(18)(B)-(D) |
| Banner (Wall) Sign (Noncommercial/Nonresidential uses within Residential) | Per Table 1 | Per Table 1 | Per Table 1 | — | One banner at a time per building | On primary entrance elevations or elevations facing major thoroughfares; permitted in noncommercial and nonresidential uses within residential zoning districts. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(2)(A)-(C) |
| Inflatable Device Sign (IDS) (Noncommercial/Nonresidential uses within Residential) | 30 ft | — | — | — | One per lot at any given time | Not in accessible parking or driveways providing access to parking or fire lanes; permitted for noncommercial/nonresidential uses on residentially zoned lots. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(6)(A)-(C) |
| Portable Variable Message Display (PVMD) (Residential lots with specified uses) | 14 ft | 50 sq ft | — | — | Not more than one installed along a street frontage at any given time | On lots within residential zoning districts containing a school, community center, amenity center or religious facility; not in accessible parking/driveways; no encroachment into ROW. | — | Unlock | § 70-16(17)(B)-(C) |
| A-frame/Sidewalk Sign (Noncommercial/Nonresidential uses within Residential) | 4 ft | 12 sq ft | — | ≥ 3 ft from curb; ≥ 4 ft pedestrian clearance | Max one per business/activity/use | ≥ 3 ft from curb; within 40 ft of main entrance; maintain ≥ 4 ft pedestrian clearance; permitted only for noncommercial/nonresidential uses within residential districts. | — | Unlock | § 70-17(1)(B)-(C) |
| Temporary Sign - Residential | — | Window sign: one nonilluminated; Additional yard sign: 4 sq ft; Election sign: 9 sq ft; Sale/lease sign: 6 sq ft | — | — | As specified: one window sign; plus one 4 sq ft sign; plus one 9 sq ft election sign per issue/candidate; plus one 6 sq ft sale/lease sign | On property with owner or lessee consent. One nonilluminated sign in one window at any time; one additional sign up to 4 sq ft at any time; one additional election sign up to 9 sq ft per issue/candidate; one additional sale/lease sign up to 6 sq ft. | — | Unlock | § 70-17(10)(A)-(C) |
PermitPal covers all 9 zoning districts in Frisco — full sign requirements for every zone, plus illumination rules, size formulas, and permit requirements for every sign type — with a free account.
See all 9 zones for Frisco — start freeProhibited Signs in Frisco
- Abandoned signs are prohibited citywide.
- Audible signs are prohibited.
- Billboards are prohibited.
- Cloud buster balloons and air devices are prohibited.
- Feather flags are prohibited.
- Using merchandise displays as signs is prohibited.
- Moving signs (or signs with moving appendages) are prohibited.
- Neglected signs are prohibited.
- Off-location/off-premises signs are prohibited.
- Outdoor advertising signs are prohibited.
- Revolving signs are prohibited.
- Searchlights/skylights used as signs are prohibited.
- Temporary nuisance signs (temporary signs in public right-of-way or on public property not expressly allowed) are prohibited.
- Vacant building signs are prohibited.
- Wind devices are prohibited (exception: flags and certain balloon arrangements as otherwise allowed).
- Any sign not referenced in or governed by the sign chapter is prohibited.
- Any sign erected or installed without a required permit is prohibited.
- Any sign that emits odor or visible matter is prohibited.
- Any changeable electronic variable message sign (CEVMS) or LED billboard located, relocated or upgraded along a regulated highway is prohibited.
- Any sign erected or installed in or over a public right-of-way or access easement is prohibited unless expressly permitted by the sign chapter.
- Any sign that does not comply with municipal ordinances or with federal or state laws is prohibited.
- Any sign supported by a tree, rock, bridge, rails, public utility pole or fence is prohibited (except temporary construction fence signs allowed by the chapter).
- Posting or maintaining signs on city-owned property or in public right-of-way without an approved encroachment agreement is prohibited.
- Placing signs within visibility triangles, corner clips or V.A.M. easements, or otherwise creating a traffic/pedestrian hazard, is prohibited.
- Attaching signs to fences, railings or walls; or placing signs on sidewalks within the public right-of-way, curbs, gutters, or streets (except house numbers or fire lane designation) is prohibited.
- Erecting signs that block or interfere with required exits or windows, or that hinder pedestrian or vehicular traffic on sidewalks, thoroughfares, fire lanes or driveways is prohibited.
- Snipe signs are prohibited.
Exempt Signs in Frisco
- This chapter does not apply within the Old Town Commercial (OTC) zoning district or a planned development district that has its own specific sign regulations.
- Signs erected by or on behalf of the city in the operation of city services (public safety, health, general welfare) are exempt.
- Signs required by federal, state or local law are exempt.
- Signs containing government messages that are approved by the city, on any sign and on or off city property, are exempt.
- Signs erected or placed as part of a city activity and/or sponsorship (including municipal banners, special events, kiosks, monument signs and government awareness signs) are exempt.
- Any sign specifically authorized by the city council as a result of a compromise of litigation or other lawful disputed claim is exempt.
- A sign required by law to enforce a property owner's rights is exempt.
- Signs located entirely within a building (except window signs) are not regulated by this chapter.
- Noncommercial message substitution is allowed anywhere a sign is permitted; an owner may substitute noncommercial copy on any lawful sign without needing a new permit solely for the copy change.
Sign Plan & Submission Notes for Frisco
- A sign coordination plan is required prior to issuance of a sign permit for signs specified in §70-16 or as otherwise required by the chapter. The plan must include sign elevations (materials, colors, lighting, fonts, dimensions), relations to building elevations, a site plan of all existing/proposed sign locations (and adjacent properties if required), and other information demonstrating consistency and uniformity.
- The building official reviews and may approve or deny a sign coordination plan; denials may be appealed per §70-8(b).
- Unified Development Monument Signs (UDMS) require an approved sign coordination plan and an established unified development zone; the permit shall not be issued before approval of the sign coordination plan and approval of a subdivision plat/preliminary site plan/site plan or before a building permit is issued. Establishing a unified development zone requires notarized authorization letters from all property owners within the proposed zone.
- Residential monument signs may be placed in the public right-of-way only with approval of a sign coordination plan.
- Residential panel signs: Panel signs up to 60 sq. ft. and 10 ft high may be located in the public right-of-way through approval of a sign coordination plan; additional panel signs on a property may be approved via a sign coordination plan.
- Nonresidential panel signs: Additional panel signs on a property may be approved through a sign coordination plan.
- Special events require an approved special event sign coordination plan before any special event signage is erected; special event temporary signs approved under that plan are exempt from other chapter regulations, and placement in public right-of-way is at the city's exclusive discretion.
- Murals require a sign permit and an approved mural facade plan from the building official before placement.
- Variances to sign regulations require a written application and a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission with mailed notice to owners within 200 feet and newspaper publication; approval requires meeting at least three of four criteria. Decisions may be appealed to the city council; a three-fourths vote of councilmembers present (or at least four votes) is required to overturn.