Sign Regulations in Houston, Texas
Houston, Texas has specific sign regulations covering 39 sign types across 12 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include Ground Sign (On-premise, general), Wall Sign (On-premise, general), Roof Sign (On-premise, legacy). Height restrictions apply. Permits are required for most commercial signs. Use PermitPal to get instant access to the complete regulations.
Data last verified: May 6, 2026
Sign Regulation Overview for Houston, Texas
Sample Sign Requirements in Houston
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Sign (On-premise, general) | 42.5 ft maximum overall height for any ground sign, including cutouts; lower heights by category and sign type in Table 4611/4609 | 300 sq ft maximum face area for on-premise ground signs; additional lower limits by category and sign type in Table 4611 (post‑2009 signs) and legacy Table 4609 (signs initially permitted prior to Sept. 1, 2009) | Off-premise ground signs: minimum 20 ft from curb of any public street and within property/building line (Sec. 4612(d)). On-premise: must be within private property; specific ground sign setbacks otherwise governed by Table 4611 categories and visibility triangle (no part of face under 8 ft within visibility triangle). |
| Wall Sign (On-premise, general) | May not extend above roofline of building, except support/anchorage portions (Sec. 4611(b)(1)c). For new signs: may extend above supporting wall only if on mansard/facade and in any case not more than 10 ft above roof line; in central business district max 42.5 ft height (Sec. 4611(i)(4)c-d). | Aggregate wall sign area may not exceed 50% of wall surface (general rule, Sec. 4609(e)(3) and 4611(b)(1)c) and, for new signs after Sept. 1, 2009, also may not exceed 25% of wall area OR 1,000 sq ft, whichever is smaller (Sec. 4611(i)(4)a). | Must remain on private property and not extend into right-of-way; no special numeric setback. |
| Roof Sign (On-premise, legacy) | On-premise roof signs shall not exceed 8 ft above roof level (Sec. 4609(e)(1)). | — | — |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
PermitPal Coverage for HoustonFull Coverage
Sign Types Covered
39
- Ground Sign (On-premise, general)
- Wall Sign (On-premise, general)
- Roof Sign (On-premise, legacy)
- Projecting Sign (On-premise, general)
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
12
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Official Resources for Houston
Other Cities in Texas
Frequently Asked Questions
In Houston, wall signs can be up to May not extend above roofline of building, except support/anchorage portions (Sec. 4611(b)(1)c). For new signs: may extend above supporting wall only if on mansard/facade and in any case not more than 10 ft above roof line; in central business district max 42.5 ft height (Sec. 4611(i)(4)c-d).. 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 Houston, 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 Houston, regulated sign types include Ground Sign (On-premise, general), Wall Sign (On-premise, general), Roof Sign (On-premise, legacy), Projecting Sign (On-premise, general), 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 Houston 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 Houston are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. Houston has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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Houston, Texas Sign Rules at a Glance
Houston, Texas regulates 39 sign types across 12 zoning districts. Ground Sign (On-premise, general)s in the General Regulations For All Zones zoning district are capped at 42.5 ft maximum overall height for any ground sign, including cutouts; lower heights by category and sign type in Table 4611/4609 tall, 300 sq ft maximum face area for on-premise ground signs; additional lower limits by category and sign type in Table 4611 (post‑2009 signs) and legacy Table 4609 (signs initially permitted prior to Sept. 1, 2009), and 30 ft maximum face width for any on-premise sign other than wall signs wide, with a must be within private property; specific ground sign setbacks otherwise governed by Table 4611 categories and visibility triangle (no part of face under 8 ft within visibility triangle). setback (Sec. Sec. 4609(a)-(e), 4609(g)-(i); Sec. 4611(b)(1)-(2); Sec. 4608(g), 4608(k),(m),(n).). Most commercial signs in Houston require a permit.
Detailed Sign Ordinance Requirements for Houston, Texas
Sign Rules by Zoning District in Houston (12 zones)
| Zoning District | Sign Types Regulated | Max Height | Max Area | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Regulations For All Zones | 13 | May not extend above roofline of building, except support/anchorage portions (Sec. 4611(b)(1)c). For new signs: may extend above supporting wall only if on mansard/facade and in any case not more than 10 ft above roof line; in central business district max 42.5 ft height (Sec. 4611(i)(4)c-d). | No explicit face-area cap for general flag signs in Table 4611/4609 (size column is “—”); structural/design loads for pole apply. | — |
| Central Business District | 4 | Overall sign height in CBD is capped at 42.5 ft (Sec. 4609(e)(2)). | Each HQ logo sign face ≤1,500 sq ft, max two per building (Sec. 4609(e)(2) Exception item 5). | — |
| Residential Rights-of-Way, Scenic and Historical Rights-of-Way and Districts | 3 | Per Table 4609 Category A for on-premise ground signs initially permitted before Sept. 1, 2009: - Single business: 14 ft - Multi-tenant 2–3 businesses: 19 ft - Multi-tenant 4+ businesses: 24 ft - Flag: 20 ft. For new signs, Table 4611 Category A heights apply (Single business: 14 ft; Multi-tenant 2–3: 19 ft; 4+: 24 ft; Flag: 20 ft). | Must comply with the height and size provisions of Table 4609 for on-premise ground signs (Sec. 4611(c)(1)); for new signs after Sept. 1, 2009, interpreted via Table 4611 per 4611(i)(1)a, but scenic/residential are Category A-equivalent for many street types. | — |
| Special Employment Districts | 1 | As permitted under Table 4611 for applicable right-of-way category (A/B/C) at the special employment district’s locations. | Must comply with general size limits in chapter for on-premise ground signs (e.g., 300 sq ft max face; Table 4611 size limits) (Sec. 4611(f)(3)c). | — |
| Airport Corridor District | 2 | Must comply with Category A height provisions of Table 4611 when on major thoroughfares (Sec. 4611(j)). For Category A: - Single business: 14 ft - Multi‑tenant (2–3): 19 ft - Multi‑tenant (4+): 24 ft - Flag: 20 ft. | Must comply with Category A size provisions of Table 4611 for on-premise ground signs in the Airport Corridor District when located on major thoroughfares (Sec. 4611(j)). For Category A: - Single business: 100 sq ft - Multi‑tenant (2–3): 200 sq ft - Multi‑tenant (4+): 300 sq ft - Flag: no explicit area. | — |
| County Complex | 1 | — | Authorized display sign component: ≤700 sq ft in size; may be standalone sign or contiguous component of larger sign (Sec. 4620(a) definition of County Complex Display Sign item 4). | — |
| East Side Sports and Convention Complex District | 5 | Wall signs may be up to 50 ft high at convention center venues in East Side Sports and Convention Complex District (Sec. 4620(a)(5)b first clause). | Wall-type special facility display signs within this district at convention center facilities: ≤1,000 sq ft (Sec. 4620(a)(4)a first clause). | — |
| Retail and Entertainment District | 4 | Max height above grade for wall and projecting signs for each business may not exceed max ceiling height of that portion of building used for that business and approved for retail use (Sec. 4620(d)(3)). | Non-special-facility wall signs in this district: ≤1,000 sq ft per sign (Sec. 4620(d)(2)). | — |
| Theater District | 2 | Wall special facility display signs in Theater District may be up to 50 ft high (Sec. 4620(a)(5)a). | Wall special facility display signs in Theater District: ≤500 sq ft (Sec. 4620(a)(4)b). | — |
| Convention District | 1 | May be located at elevations in excess of 42.5 ft above grade (specifically states an exception for two wall signs to be located at elevation >42.5 ft) (Sec. 4620(e)(2)). No explicit maximum height specified, but limited by building structure and general safety/regulations. | Each hotel wall sign under this special convention-district rule: ≤2,000 sq ft total size (Sec. 4620(e)(2)). Two such signs allowed, so up to 4,000 sq ft combined between both. Only hotel name and registered trademark may be displayed. | — |
| Gateway U.S. 59/Midtown Scenic District | 1 | As scenic/residential Category A for ground signs, and general wall/projecting limits; HQ/freeway-specific modifications do not apply here unless overlapping CBD or Airport Corridor zones exist at the same location. | Same as for other scenic districts: must comply with on-premise scenic/residential ROW provisions including Table 4609/4611 Category A ground sign limits and electrical bulb limits for scenic corridors (via Sec. 4611(c) and Appendix A item 21). | — |
| Downtown Scenic District | 2 | As per 4620 special facility display sign rules (24–50 ft) and any CBD-specific height overlays for wall signs where applicable. | Same as for other scenic districts; on-premise signs must comply with 4611(c) after six years and general limits for wall/ground signs. Appendix A item 22 explicitly states that the existence of Downtown Scenic District does not preclude placement/maintenance of special facility display signs under 4620. | — |
Zone-by-Zone Sign Requirements in Houston(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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Sign (On-premise, general) | 42.5 ft maximum overall height for any ground sign, including cutouts; lower heights by category and sign type in Table 4611/4609 | 300 sq ft maximum face area for on-premise ground signs; additional lower limits by category and sign type in Table 4611 (post‑2009 signs) and legacy Table 4609 (signs initially permitted prior to Sept. 1, 2009) | 30 ft maximum face width for any on-premise sign other than wall signs | Off-premise ground signs: minimum 20 ft from curb of any public street and within property/building line (Sec. 4612(d)). On-premise: must be within private property; specific ground sign setbacks otherwise governed by Table 4611 categories and visibility triangle (no part of face under 8 ft within visibility triangle). | Each business may have no more than one on-premise ground or projecting sign per frontage; if frontage > 350 ft, up to two ground/projecting signs along that frontage spaced at least 350 ft apart. Total of ground + projecting signs per business may not exceed two (Sec. 4611(b)(1)a). | Must be on private property, supports placed in or upon private property (Sec. 4609(b)(1)); contained wholly within the premises and not extend into the public right-of-way (Sec. 4611(b)(2)), except as specifically allowed (e.g., projecting signs closer than 2 ft to curb). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4609(a)-(e), 4609(g)-(i); Sec. 4611(b)(1)-(2); Sec. 4608(g), 4608(k),(m),(n). |
| Wall Sign (On-premise, general) | May not extend above roofline of building, except support/anchorage portions (Sec. 4611(b)(1)c). For new signs: may extend above supporting wall only if on mansard/facade and in any case not more than 10 ft above roof line; in central business district max 42.5 ft height (Sec. 4611(i)(4)c-d). | Aggregate wall sign area may not exceed 50% of wall surface (general rule, Sec. 4609(e)(3) and 4611(b)(1)c) and, for new signs after Sept. 1, 2009, also may not exceed 25% of wall area OR 1,000 sq ft, whichever is smaller (Sec. 4611(i)(4)a). | — | Must remain on private property and not extend into right-of-way; no special numeric setback. | Per business: no more than four total of roof and wall signs (Sec. 4611(b)(1)b). | Affixed to or painted on building walls. For structural attachment, must use metal anchors/bolts into masonry/concrete/stone, minimum 3/8 in dia, embedded at least 5 in; no wood blocks in masonry walls (Sec. 4609(j)). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4603(b) (definition); Sec. 4609(e)(3), 4609(j), 4609(h)(3); Sec. 4611(b)(1)b-c; Sec. 4611(i)(4). |
| Projecting Sign (On-premise, general) | Projecting signs must be at least 14 ft above grade (Sec. 4609(e)(1)); may not extend above building’s uppermost portion except as allowed in Sec. 4609(l)(5) (up to 2 ft above roof/cornice for narrow signs ≤18 in wide). New restrictions: no projecting sign may extend above roof line of supporting exterior wall, and in central business district max 42.5 ft height (Sec. 4611(i)(5)). | For Retail and Entertainment District projecting signs: 200 sq ft max (Sec. 4620(d)(2)); otherwise no general sq ft cap beyond 300 sq ft ground-sign cap, but structural limits apply. | If at right angle and used for the 2 ft above-roof allowance, horizontal width perpendicular to wall must not exceed 18 in (Sec. 4609(l)(5)). | Must remain at least 2 ft behind curb line, even if extending up to 10 ft from building (Sec. 4611(b)(2)). | Per business: no more than one projecting or ground sign per frontage; if frontage >350 ft, maximum two ground/projecting combined along that frontage; total ground+projecting signs per business ≤2 (Sec. 4611(b)(1)a). | Affixed to building and extending >12 in beyond wall (definition Sec. 4603(b)); may extend up to 10 ft outward from building but must stay at least 2 ft behind curb line (Sec. 4611(b)(2)); may not project above roof/cornice except as limited (Sec. 4609(l)(5); 4611(i)(5)a). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4603(b); Sec. 4609(e)(1), 4609(l); Sec. 4611(b)(1)a, 4611(i)(5). |
| Marquee Sign (On-premise, general) | Sign attached to marquee may extend no more than 6 ft above and 1 ft below marquee; lowest point of sign hung from marquee must be at least 8 ft above sidewalk/ground (Sec. 4609(m)). | Vertical dimension of sign attached to marquee: ≤8 ft; may extend full length and width of marquee but no explicit square footage cap except as limited by other district-specific rules. | — | — | Each business may have no more than three on-premise marquee signs (Sec. 4611(b)(1)e). | Attached to or hung from canopy/marquee projection from building (Sec. 4603(b); 4609(m)). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4603(b); Sec. 4605(b)(11); Sec. 4609(m); Sec. 4611(b)(1)e. |
| Flag Sign (On-premise, general) | As on-premise ground signs per Table 4611/4609, e.g., for Table 4611: Category A 20 ft; Category B 35 ft; Category C 50 ft; (Category D/E not defined for flag). For legacy Table 4609: Category A 20 ft; B 40 ft; C 60 ft. | No explicit face-area cap for general flag signs in Table 4611/4609 (size column is “—”); structural/design loads for pole apply. | — | — | Flag signs are included in ground sign count for on-premise sign limits, except that one per frontage (max two per business) is exempt from total allowable on-premise sign limitations and operating permits (Sec. 4608(o)). | On-premise; counted as ground signs regardless of mounting (Sec. 4608(o)). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4603(c) (Flag Sign definition); Sec. 4608(o); Sec. 4609(o)-(p); Table 4611; Table 4609. |
| Changeable Message Sign (On-premise) | For changeable message wall signs: ≤35 ft or roof line of supporting exterior wall, whichever is shorter (Sec. 4611(i)(6)f). For ground signs: subject to applicable ground-sign height for category; the changeable portion for collector streets limited to Category A height (Sec. 4611(i)(6)d). | Changeable portion: ≤50% of allowable sign face under Table 4611, and in no event >100 sq ft (Sec. 4611(i)(6)e). Overall sign must meet Table 4611 size limits. | — | Same as associated ground/wall sign; 150 ft separation from single-family residence property line when on/facing collector street (except schools) (Sec. 4611(i)(6)c). | Maximum one changeable message sign per business (Sec. 4611(i)(6)a). | On-premise only; not allowed as off-premise signs (off‑premise electronic/high‑tech prohibited, Sec. 4612(b)(2)). Restrictions on street type and proximity to residences for collector/local streets (see additional requirements). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4602 (definitions of Changeable Message, High Technology); Sec. 4611(h); Sec. 4611(i)(6). |
| Directional and Locational Sign (On-premise, small) | Option 1: ≤5 ft; Option 2: 8 ft (for ≤25 sq ft) or 6 ft (for ≤30 sq ft). | Option 1: ≤6 sq ft; Option 2 (institutions): ≤25 sq ft at ≤8 ft high, OR ≤30 sq ft at ≤6 ft high. | — | — | Option 1: max 2 per vehicular entrance; Option 2 (institutions): max 1 per entrance (Sec. 4605(b)(8)). | On-premise only, setting forth directions to parking/buildings and regulating on-premise traffic (Sec. 4605(b)(8)a-b). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4605(b)(8)a-b. |
| Special Facility Display Sign (General, any qualifying district) | District-dependent: 24–50 ft maximum above grade depending on district and sign type (ground/marquee vs wall). | District-dependent, but general ranges: ground/marquee 250–400 sq ft; wall 250–1,000 sq ft depending on district and venue type (detailed in district-specific entries). | — | Same as applicable ground/wall/marquee sign rules, plus freeway visibility restriction (Sec. 4620(a)(7)). | General: max two per special facility; convention center complexes >1.5M sq ft: max 8. Retail and Entertainment District: exactly two wall signs maximum for the special facility (Sec. 4620(b)). | On-premise at a qualifying “special facility” in Theater District, Retail and Entertainment District, or East Side Sports and Convention Complex District (Sec. 4620(a) definitions). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4620(a) Special Facility, Special Facility Display Sign; Sec. 4620(b)-(c). |
Central Business District
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Sign (On-premise, CBD) | Overall sign height in CBD is capped at 42.5 ft (Sec. 4609(e)(2)). | Same general on-premise ground sign limits as elsewhere: ≤300 sq ft face area, 30 ft width, and Table 4611 category-based size limits for new signs; no CBD-specific area change cited. | 30 ft maximum (Sec. 4609(e)(4)). | General ground-sign setbacks and visibility triangle rules apply; no additional CBD-specific setback. | Per-business ground sign limits of Sec. 4611(b)(1)a apply. | On-premise within CBD, complying with general location rules. | — | Unlock | Sec. 4609(e)(2) (CBD height limit); Sec. 4609(e)(4); Table 4611. |
| Wall Sign (On-premise, CBD general) | In the CBD, maximum height of any wall sign is 42.5 ft (Sec. 4611(i)(4)d). Also, wall signs may not extend more than 8 ft above roofline of building in CBD (Sec. 4609(e)(2) sentence 2). | Same as general wall signs: for new signs, aggregate wall sign area ≤25% of wall area or 1,000 sq ft, whichever is smaller; also constrained to ≤50% of wall surface by general rule (Sec. 4609(e)(3); 4611(i)(4)a). | — | — | Counts toward max four roof+wall signs per business (Sec. 4611(b)(1)b). | On exterior building walls within CBD. | — | Unlock | Sec. 4609(e)(2)-(3); Sec. 4611(i)(4)a,d. |
| Wall Sign – Headquarters Logo Sign (CBD Exception) | CBD 42.5 ft cap does not apply to HQ logo signs; they may appear upon roof structure, parapet wall, or other building surfaces above highest occupiable story (Sec. 4609(e)(2) Exception item 2). No explicit numeric height limit beyond being on those upper building surfaces. | Each HQ logo sign face ≤1,500 sq ft, max two per building (Sec. 4609(e)(2) Exception item 5). | — | — | Maximum 2 HQ logo signs per headquarters building in CBD (Sec. 4609(e)(2) Exception item 5). | Displayed upon surface structure of headquarters building (roof structure, parapet, or other surface above highest occupiable story). Display may use projection/laser/other technology; no conventional sign cabinet or structure, projection equipment/light sources not readily visible from ground level (Sec. 4609(e)(2) Exception item 2). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4609(e)(2) Exception (items 1–5 and subsequent paragraphs). |
| Projecting Sign (On-premise, CBD) | In CBD, maximum height of a projecting sign shall not exceed 42.5 ft (Sec. 4611(i)(5)b). | — | — | At least 2 ft behind curb line, even if extending up to 10 ft from building (Sec. 4611(b)(2)). | Ground + projecting sign limits under Sec. 4611(b)(1)a still apply. | On buildings within CBD, following general projecting sign rules and CBD height cap. | — | Unlock | Sec. 4611(i)(5)a-b; Sec. 4609(l). |
East Side Sports and Convention Complex District
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Facility Display Sign – East Side Sports and Convention Complex District (Ground/Marquee, Convention Center Venue) | Ground or marquee special facility display signs at convention center venues in this district: height ≤24 ft when measured from highest point on sign to grade (Sec. 4620(a)(5)d first clause). | Ground or marquee special facility display sign at convention center venues in this district: ≤250 sq ft (Sec. 4620(a)(4)a). | — | Same as general ground/marquee; plus freeway visibility restriction (Sec. 4620(a)(7)). | Per special facility normally 2; for convention center complexes >1.5M sq ft, up to 7 ground/marquee plus 1 wall (Sec. 4620(b)). | On-premise at convention center facility venues within East Side Sports and Convention Complex District (Sec. 4620(a) East Side Sports and Convention Complex District Tracts 1–3; Special Facility definition). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4620(a) East Side Sports and Convention Complex District; Special Facility; Special Facility Display Sign; Sec. 4620(a)(4)a, (5)d; Sec. 4620(b)-(c). |
| Special Facility Display Sign – East Side Sports and Convention Complex District (Ground/Marquee, Other Venues) | For non-convention-center venues, ground/marquee special facility display signs may be up to 42.5 ft high (Sec. 4620(a)(5)d second clause). | Ground or marquee special facility display signs at non-convention-center venues in this district: ≤400 sq ft (Sec. 4620(a)(4)a second clause). | — | — | Max 2 per special facility (unless aggregated into convention center’s 8‑sign allowance). | On-premise at qualifying sports, theater, restaurant/entertainment or similar special facilities (other than the convention center itself) within the district. | — | Unlock | Sec. 4620(a)(4)a; Sec. 4620(a)(5)d; Sec. 4620(a) Special Facility Display Sign. |
| Special Facility Display Sign – East Side Sports and Convention Complex District (Wall, Convention Center Venue) | Wall signs may be up to 50 ft high at convention center venues in East Side Sports and Convention Complex District (Sec. 4620(a)(5)b first clause). | Wall-type special facility display signs within this district at convention center facilities: ≤1,000 sq ft (Sec. 4620(a)(4)a first clause). | — | — | Within combined limits of 2 per special facility or 8 for large convention center complexes. | On building walls of convention center venues within the district. | — | Unlock | Sec. 4620(a)(4)a; Sec. 4620(a)(5)b; Sec. 4620(a) Special Facility Display Sign. |
| Special Facility Display Sign – East Side Sports and Convention Complex District (Wall, Other Venues) | Wall special facility display signs may be up to 42.5 ft high at non-convention venues in the district (Sec. 4620(a)(5)b second clause). | Wall special facility display signs in this district at non-convention-center venues: ≤1,000 sq ft (same size cap as for convention center venues, by general East Side clause in 4620(a)(4)a). | — | — | Maximum 2 per special facility, except as allowed for convention center complexes. | On wall of other special facilities in East Side Sports and Convention Complex District. | — | Unlock | Sec. 4620(a)(4)a; Sec. 4620(a)(5)b; Sec. 4620(a) definitions. |
| Park Display Sign – East Side Sports and Convention Complex District | Implicitly limited by 15 ft banner height; device is tethered and moved up/down; no separate numeric pole height cap given. | Banner area ≤15 ft tall and ≤190 ft in circumference around the inflatable device (Sec. 4620(a) Park Display Sign item 5). | — | None specific; must be safely located in park. | Maximum 1 Park Display Sign per park (Sec. 4620(b)). | In a public park within boundaries of the East Side Sports and Convention Complex District, on a tethered inflatable device that is raised/lowered from a stationary location (Sec. 4620(a) Park Display Sign items 1–2). | — | Unlock | Sec. 4620(a) Park Display Sign; Sec. 4620(b)-(c). |
PermitPal covers all 12 zoning districts in Houston — 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 Houston — start freeProhibited Signs in Houston
- It is unlawful to install, erect, construct, reconstruct, alter, relocate, maintain, or use any sign in violation of any provision of Chapter 46 (Houston Sign Code).
- No person shall erect, reconstruct, alter, relocate, or use a sign within the sign code application area without first securing a written permit from the Sign Administrator, except for signs that are expressly exempted from permits in Section 4605(b).
- Abandoned signs (defined as certain on‑premise signs without a permit for two years) are prohibited.
- Signs not in use must not display obsolete advertising; any existing advertising message that no longer applies must be painted over, blanked out, or otherwise obliterated, and such sign structures must remain in good repair.
- Seasonal-holiday displays and banners with advertising are subject to this chapter; only those erected without advertising as described in Section 40‑30 of the City Code are exempt from the sign code.
- Special event banners that do not meet the definition in Section 40‑31 of the City Code are subject to this chapter.
- With limited grandfathered exceptions, it is unlawful to place any sign upon a public street, public sidewalk, public alley, public right‑of‑way, public curb, or other public improvement in public streets or grounds, or on any public bridge, public building, or public structure, or in any public place, or on any public improvement, unless express consent has been granted by City Council (public property leased for private business purposes is excluded from this prohibition).
- Any unlawful sign placed within a public right‑of‑way of a public street, public sidewalk, or public alley may be seized and impounded by authorized city personnel.
- No person may place a sign on private property without the written consent of the owner or the owner’s agent.
- No sign may be constructed so as to resemble any official marker erected by the city, state, or any governmental agency, or be placed or designed so that, by reason of position, shape, or color, it would conflict with the proper functioning of any traffic sign or signal, or conflict with or be confused with emergency vehicle lights; use of words such as “stop,” “look,” “danger,” or similar terms in a way that interferes with, misleads, or confuses traffic is prohibited.
- Signs are prohibited on traffic islands, defined as areas of less than 5,000 square feet entirely bounded by or within the curb lines of a public street or streets, or any area with a minimum distance of less than 50 feet between the curb lines of any street or streets.
- No sign may be erected, constructed, or maintained so as to obstruct any means of egress, any opening necessary for required light, ventilation, firefighting, or escape, or so as to prevent free passage from one part of a roof to another.
- No sign may be attached to any exterior stairway, fire escape, fire tower balcony, or balcony serving as a horizontal exit.
- No sign may be erected, constructed, or maintained so as to interfere with the free operation of a counterbalanced section of a fire escape; projecting signs over such sections must have a minimum of 7 feet clearance.
- No sign may obstruct the free use of any window above the first story.
- No sign may employ a stereopticon or motion picture machine.
- No permit for a sign that extends beyond private property onto a public street, public sidewalk, or public alley creates a permanent easement; every such permit is revocable at any time by City Council, and the City is not liable for damages due to revocation.
- Signs may not be located or illuminated in such a manner as to obscure or interfere with the effectiveness of any official traffic sign, signal, or device.
- Signs may not be located or illuminated so as to obstruct or interfere with the view of a driver of approaching, emerging, or intersecting traffic, or to prevent a traveler on any street from obtaining a clear view of approaching vehicles for a distance of 250 feet along the street.
- Signs containing lights that are not effectively shielded from directing beams or rays at the traveled way, and whose intensity or brilliance causes glare or impairs the vision of drivers, or otherwise interferes with a driver’s operation of a motor vehicle, are prohibited.
- Spectacular signs (as defined in Section 4603) are prohibited citywide.
- Within any visibility triangle, no part of the face of a sign (on‑premise or off‑premise) may be lower than 8 feet above the grade level of the nearest street.
- Flag signs are subject to the structural and height requirements of Section 4609 and must be permitted; they may not violate those requirements.
- New portable signs are prohibited; no new construction permits may be issued for portable signs.
- All signs must be kept in good repair; unmaintained, deteriorated, or structurally unsafe signs are prohibited and must be repaired or removed upon notice.
- Any sign deemed insecure, in danger of failing, or otherwise unsafe must be corrected in conformity with the code; maintaining unsafe signs is prohibited.
- It is unlawful to maintain any sign for which a required permit has been revoked or that lacks a required operating permit.
- It is unlawful to secure a sign permit by subterfuge or in a manner not in full compliance with the sign code; such permits are subject to revocation.
- Any off‑premise sign structure that displays no copy or advertising for 120 consecutive days is deemed a violation and must be restored to use or removed; failure to do so results in removal at the owner’s expense.
- All off‑premise signs within the sign code application area are declared nonconforming and unauthorized and must ultimately be removed following amortization, except where removal by amortization would violate state or federal law.
- Electronic off‑premise signs and off‑premise high‑technology signs are prohibited, including construction, reconstruction, upgrading, or conversion of an existing off‑premise sign to such technologies.
- No off‑premise sign may be located in a predominantly residential area.
- No off‑premise sign may be erected, constructed, or established such that its face may be viewed from a scenic or historical right‑of‑way or district.
- All off‑premise signs must be located within 800 feet of a commercial or industrial activity (signs outside that radius are prohibited).
- Off‑premise signs must comply with spacing requirements relative to other off‑premise signs on the same side of the right‑of‑way; closer spacing than allowed by Table 4612 is prohibited unless a listed exception applies.
- Off‑premise signs must be set back at least 20 feet from the curb of any public street and lie within the deeded front building line or property line; closer placement is prohibited.
- Existing off‑premise signs (except those protected under state/federal highway acts) located on scenic and historical rights‑of‑way and districts must be removed by the owner at the owner’s expense six years after designation; failure to remove is a violation.
- Off‑premise sign structures that were required to be supported by a limited number of columns under Section 4612(f) and do not meet those structural requirements are prohibited.
- All off‑premise sign owners must annually file a certified list of their off‑premise sign structures; failure to file this list is a violation.
- On‑premise signs must be erected in connection with a legitimate business purpose; any sign not connected with a business purpose is treated and regulated as an off‑premise sign.
- Spectacular on‑premise signs are prohibited generally, and specifically on residential, scenic, and historical rights‑of‑way and districts.
- On‑premise signs on residential, scenic, and historical rights‑of‑way and districts must comply with additional limits on electrical illumination; more intense installations than allowed are prohibited.
- Roof signs (for new on‑premise signs permitted after September 1, 2009) are prohibited.
- Blinking, rotating, moving, chasing, flashing, glaring, strobe, scintillating, or spot lights are prohibited for changeable message signs and high technology signs.
- Changeable message signs may not change their message more often than every five minutes and must complete any change within one second; more frequent or prolonged transitions are prohibited.
- High‑technology signs may not change messages at all without a new permit; changing content without a new permit is prohibited.
- Changeable message and high‑technology signs that exceed brightness limits (6500 nits daytime and 1250 nits nighttime) or lack automatic light‑sensing devices are prohibited.
- No conversion of an existing sign to an electrical sign, high‑technology sign, or changeable message sign is allowed unless the sign fully complies with Section 4611(i) (with the narrow exception for certain cabinet‑retained changes).
- Changeable message signs are limited to one per business; more than one changeable message sign for the same business is prohibited.
- Except for changeable message signs at schools, no changeable message sign may be located on a local street.
- Except for changeable message signs at schools, no changeable message sign on or facing a collector street may be located within 150 feet of the property line of a single‑family residence.
- For changeable message signs on or facing collector streets, the changeable portion may not exceed the height standards for Category A signs in Table 4611.
- For a changeable message sign, the area devoted to the changing message is limited to 50% of the allowable sign‑face area under Table 4611 and may not exceed 100 square feet; larger changeable areas are prohibited.
- The height of a changeable message wall sign may not exceed 35 feet or the roof line of the supporting exterior wall, whichever is shorter.
- Converting an existing sign into a changeable message sign must meet all standards for a new changeable message sign; non‑conforming conversions are prohibited.
- On‑premise signs must not extend onto the public right‑of‑way except as specifically allowed for projecting signs; encroaching signs beyond those allowances are prohibited.
- Wall signs in aggregate may cover no more than 50% of the wall surface they are mounted on, and, for new on‑premise signs after September 1, 2009, no more than 25% of that wall or 1,000 square feet (whichever is smaller); exceeding these limits is prohibited.
- No on‑premise wall sign may extend above the roofline of the building except for limited support/anchoring components, or more than 10 feet above the roofline when mounted on a mansard/facade; taller wall signs are prohibited.
- In the central business district, wall and projecting signs may not exceed 42.5 feet in height, except for specific headquarters logo signs that meet strict criteria; taller signs are prohibited.
- Ground signs may not exceed specified height and size limits (generally 42.5 feet in height and 300 square feet for on‑premise, and 672 square feet for off‑premise); larger signs are prohibited.
- On‑premise ground signs may not exceed the heights and sizes in Table 4611 (or Table 4609 for older signs), including reduced limits in the Airport Corridor; non‑compliant ground signs are prohibited.
- On‑premise signs must generally be contained wholly on the premises where located; off‑premise placement is prohibited except as allowed for off‑premise signs.
- All electrical signs must conform to the City of Houston Electrical Code; electrical signs that do not comply are prohibited.
- Sign supports, anchorage, and materials that fail to meet structural, fire prevention, or clearance requirements in Section 4609 are prohibited.
- Any sign located within the sign code application area that does not comply with state or federal outdoor advertising controls where applicable is prohibited, and the Sign Administrator is authorized to enforce those laws.
- Any person engaging in leasing or erecting signs for others without a required sign company license is prohibited from doing so.
- Sign companies must maintain required liability insurance and removal bonds; performing work without these is prohibited.
- Vehicles used to install, erect, or maintain signs must bear required company identification; operating such vehicles without identification is prohibited.
- Any penal provision violations of the sign code, applicable portions of the Construction Code, or Fire Code within the extraterritorial jurisdiction are offenses subject to municipal court jurisdiction and fines.
Exempt Signs in Houston
- The Houston Sign Code applies only within the defined sign code application area (the corporate limits of Houston and its extraterritorial jurisdiction); signs outside this area are exempt from this chapter.
- For purposes of on‑premise sign regulation only, portions of Houston’s extraterritorial jurisdiction that lie in Harris County are excluded from the sign code application area and are instead governed by separate Harris County regulations.
- Seasonal-holiday displays and banners as described in Section 40‑30 of the City Code, and similar temporary displays erected without advertising, are exempt from the sign code, though still subject to the Fire Code and fire marshal rules.
- Special event banners, as defined in Section 40‑31 of the City Code, are exempt from the sign code, though still subject to the Fire Code and fire marshal rules.
- On‑premise signs painted on glass surfaces, windows, or doors are exempt from permit requirements, provided they are 6 square feet or less, are not electrical, and have no separate structure; larger or electrical window signs visible from the right‑of‑way require a permit and are not exempt.
- Signs erected by or on behalf of the State of Texas (including its political subdivisions) or by or on behalf of the federal government are exempt from sign permits, except for signs erected by the City of Houston and its lessees unless those signs are on property under the City’s Aviation Department or property leased to the Harris County–Houston Sports Authority. Certain city/lessee signs lawfully erected before April 9, 2002, remain exempt and may be maintained or replaced in kind.
- Railroad signs are exempt from sign permit requirements.
- Legal notices and house numbers are exempt from sign permit requirements.
- Temporary on‑premise signs up to 40 square feet that provide information on buildings under repair or construction, or advertise the sale or rental of premises, are exempt from sign permits.
- Signs expressly authorized by and subject to other provisions of the City Code (outside Chapter 46) may be exempt from sign permits under this chapter to the extent so provided by those other provisions.
- Signs required by federal, state, or local laws are exempt from sign permits under this chapter.
- On‑premise directional and locational signs as described in Section 4605(b)(8) a and b are within the code but have special treatment: they may be small, have limited height, and can be lighted. However, these particular directional signs explicitly still require permits and therefore are not permit‑exempt but functionally recognized as a distinct category.
- Signs on or in motor vehicles are generally exempt from sign regulation under this chapter, unless the vehicle is used primarily for advertising purposes.
- Signs designed and used for display upon or with lighter‑ or heavier‑than‑air craft are exempt from sign permits under this chapter.
- Certain integrated building signs not exceeding 200 square feet that are painted on the face of a building (no higher than the roof line) and that form an integral part of a canopy or marquee entrance, stating only the street number, proprietor name, and premises name, are exempt from sign permits (but still counted as marquee signs for on‑premise sign limits).
- Provisional signs installed by a licensed sign contractor, who already holds current valid permits for permanent signage at the same location, are exempt from additional permits, so long as the number of provisional signs does not exceed the number of permitted permanent signs and they are removed immediately when permanent signs are installed.
- Existing signs lawfully erected and lawfully existing on certain scenic or historical rights‑of‑way that are subject to the Texas Highway Beautification Act (Texas Transportation Code Chapter 391) or the Federal Highway Beautification Act are exempt from some local spacing/location rules and from some scenic‑district removal requirements; those aspects are regulated primarily by state/federal rules.
- For off‑premise signs on the Interstate and Freeway Primary System that are subject to state/federal highway regulations, city spacing rules do not apply to the extent those signs are governed by the Texas Act or Federal Act.
- Stake‑type signs made of cloth, wood, paper, or similar lightweight materials picked up from the right‑of‑way may be disposed of immediately and are exempt from the standard impoundment and storage procedures, though not exempt from being unlawful in the right‑of‑way.
- One flag sign per frontage (maximum two per business), while required to be structurally compliant and permitted as flag signs, is exempted from counting toward the total allowable number of on‑premise signs under Section 4611(b), and is exempt from the requirement for an operating permit (though still requires a construction permit and must meet all height/structural standards).
- For signs initially permitted prior to September 1, 2009, the height and size rules of Table 4609 continue to apply instead of the newer Table 4611 limitations, effectively exempting those older signs from some newer dimensional restrictions.
- Off‑premise signs used exclusively and at all times for non‑commercial messages (e.g., political, religious, public service, governmental, ideological) are exempt from being treated as “signs” under this chapter and are not subject to the off‑premise sign abatement/amortization provisions, so long as they are never used for commercial advertising.
- Certain headquarters logo signs in the central business district that meet strict criteria (headquarters building size, occupancy, projection technology, timing, continuous static image, and size limits) are exempt from the general 42.5‑foot height limit for signs in that district.
- Special display signs (county complex display signs, park display signs, and special facility display signs) that meet the criteria of Section 4620 are exempt from otherwise applicable prohibitions on spectacular signs, signs on lighter‑ or heavier‑than‑air craft, and signs using motion picture machines, and from some dimensional and brightness restrictions, but still require permits and must meet the special conditions in Section 4620.
- Special facility display signs for certain downtown venues (Theater District, Retail and Entertainment District, East Side Sports and Convention Complex District) are exempt from some general size, height, and message‑change limitations that apply to changeable message or spectacular‑type signs elsewhere, provided they meet the strict conditions in Section 4620.
- Within the Retail and Entertainment District, certain wall, ground, and marquee signs are exempt from the usual indirect‑lighting limitation in Section 4611(c)(3) to the extent stated in Section 4620(d), allowing more extensive direct lighting within defined limits.
- For hotels located in the Convention District, two on‑premise wall signs are exempt from the general 42.5‑foot height limit and normal wall‑sign size limits (up to 2,000 square feet each) if they meet the specific conditions in Section 4620(e).
- On‑premise sign regulations in Section 4611(j) (Airport Corridor District rules) do not apply to or restrict special display signs authorized under Section 4620.
- Certain city administrative/transition provisions (e.g., existing signs receiving operating permits by a schedule and being allowed to remain while amortized, or signs lawfully erected before certain dates) functionally exempt those signs from immediate compliance with newer dimensional or location standards until specified amortization or compliance dates.
Sign Permit Fees & Timelines in Houston
| Item | Details | Citation |
|---|---|---|
| All sign permits | Fees for operating permits that are not paid within thirty days following the mailing of a bill therefor by the City will be assessed a 15 percent surcharge. | — |
| Other | 10 unstructured (starts when After the Sign Administrator's decision) | — |
| See all Houston sign permit fees & timelines — start free | ||
Source: other municipal code