Sign Regulations in San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio, Texas has specific sign regulations covering 61 sign types across 22 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include All Sign Types - General Safety / Location, Government Sign, Digital Display - General Requirements (On- and Off-Premises). Height restrictions apply. Permits are required for most commercial signs. Use PermitPal to get instant access to the complete regulations.
Data last verified: May 8, 2026
Sign Regulation Overview for San Antonio, Texas
Sample Sign Requirements in San Antonio
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Sign Types - General Safety / Location | — | — | No sign within the 25‑ft intersection visibility triangle formed by intersecting street lines and a line connecting points 25 ft from intersection on each street (Sec. 28‑41(b)(2)); signs within that triangle in public ROW are illegal; no obstruction of clear vision area (defined in Ch. 35). |
| Temporary Sign - General Rules | As specified per residential/nonresidential and ROW subsections (see dedicated entries). | As specified per residential/nonresidential and ROW subsections (see dedicated entries). | Must comply with spacing and setback rules in each context (residential, nonresidential, right‑of‑way). |
| Nameplate (Attached, Non-Illuminated) | — | 1 sq ft | — |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
PermitPal Coverage for San AntonioFull Coverage
Sign Types Covered
61
- All Sign Types - General Safety / Location
- Government Sign
- Digital Display - General Requirements (On- and Off-Premises)
- Temporary Sign - General Rules
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
22
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Official Resources for San Antonio
Other Cities in Texas
Frequently Asked Questions
Sign height limits in San Antonio 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 San Antonio, 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 Antonio, regulated sign types include All Sign Types - General Safety / Location, Government Sign, Digital Display - General Requirements (On- and Off-Premises), Temporary Sign - General Rules, 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 Antonio 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 Antonio are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. San Antonio has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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San Antonio, Texas Sign Rules at a Glance
San Antonio, Texas regulates 61 sign types across 22 zoning districts. Freestanding Sign - Residential R-2 and R-3 Occupancy Types in the Residential Base Zoning Districts and Residential Properties within 100 Feet of a Residential Zone or Public Park (RP, RE, R-20, R-6, R-5, R-4, R-3, RM-6, RM-5, RM-4, MF-18, MF-25, MF-33, MF-40, MF-50, MF-65) zoning district are capped at Per Table 1 for the relevant street classification (Local, Arterial Type B/Commercial Collector, Arterial Type A, Expressway) as applied to these occupancies. tall and Per Table 1 for residential R-2 and R-3 occupancies and/or local/arterial/expressway frontage (exact square footage not spelled out beyond cross-reference)., with a For local streets and residential collectors, freestanding signs must be set back at least 15 ft from any public right‑of‑way and 10 ft from side and rear lot lines abutting residential uses (Sec. 28‑46(b)(3)d). Signs abutting single‑family residential must also meet the separate freestanding residential buffer in Sec. 28‑42 if applicable. setback (Sec. Sec. 28-46(b)(2)–(3); Sec. 28-45(c)–(d)). Most commercial signs in San Antonio require a permit.
Detailed Sign Ordinance Requirements for San Antonio, Texas
Sign Rules by Zoning District in San Antonio (22 zones)
| Zoning District | Sign Types Regulated | Max Height | Max Area | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Regulations For All Zones | 4 | As specified per residential/nonresidential and ROW subsections (see dedicated entries). | As specified per residential/nonresidential and ROW subsections (see dedicated entries). | — |
| Residential Base Zoning Districts and Residential Properties within 100 Feet of a Residential Zone or Public Park (RP, RE, R-20, R-6, R-5, R-4, R-3, RM-6, RM-5, RM-4, MF-18, MF-25, MF-33, MF-40, MF-50, MF-65) | 5 | 8 ft max height for freestanding on local streets / residential collectors | 36 sq ft for freestanding; 36 sq ft for attached sign | — |
| Nonresidential Base Zoning Districts and Nonresidential Uses (NC, C-1, C-2NA, C-2P, C-2, O-1, O-1.5, O-2, C-3NA, C-3R, C-3, D, L, I-1, I-2, FR, RD, UD, MI-1, MI-2, BP, DR, ED, FBZD, G, IDZ, MH, MHC, MHP, MPCD, MR, MXD, NP-8, NP-10, NP-15, PUD, QD, SGD, TOD, MXD-related special districts when used nonresidentially) | 24 | 60 ft above adjacent street grade, not to exceed 70 ft above ground level (Table 2). | 650 sq ft per sign (Table 2); individual tenant’s portion limited to 375 sq ft (freestanding Table 1 expressway limit and Sec. 28‑45(e)). | — |
| Off-Premises Signs (City-Wide, All Zoning Districts, Including ETJ) | 3 | 42.5 ft above adjacent street grade (centerline of main‑traveled way, excluding frontage road) with absolute max 60 ft above ground level. | Maximum face area per direction by street type: 672 sq ft along freeways/expressways/interstates; 399 sq ft along arterials; 99 sq ft along collectors/local access streets. Embellishments/cutouts may add up to 20% extra area beyond face area (but not counted toward regulated face area). | — |
| Urban Corridors (General Regulations) | 2 | Per roadway class: Local 10–15 ft; Collector/Arterial 30–40 ft; Expressway 40–50 ft (ranges as guidelines; specific corridor ordinances may define exact value). | Per roadway class within corridor: Local 64–96 sq ft; Collector/Arterial 200–300 sq ft; Expressway 350–500 sq ft (see ranges: corridor ordinance may specify exact value within range). | — |
| IH-10/FM 1604 Urban Corridor | 2 | Local: 15 ft; Collector/Arterial: 40 ft; Expressway: 50 ft | Local: 96 sq ft; Collector/Arterial: 350 sq ft; Expressway: 500 sq ft | — |
| UC-2, Broadway Urban Corridor District | 2 | 40 ft | 350 sq ft | — |
| UC-3, Fredericksburg Road Urban Corridor District | 2 | 40 ft | 350 sq ft | — |
| UC-4, North St. Mary’s Street Urban Corridor District | 2 | 40 ft | 350 sq ft | — |
| UC-5, Main Ave./McCullough Ave. Urban Corridor District | 2 | Local: 15 ft; Collector/Arterial: 24 ft; Expressway: 40 ft | Local: 96 sq ft; Collector/Arterial: 250 sq ft; Expressway: 500 sq ft | — |
| UC-6, San Pedro Urban Corridor District | 2 | Local: 15 ft; Collector/Arterial: 32 ft; Expressway: 50 ft | Local: 96 sq ft; Collector/Arterial: 250 sq ft; Expressway: 500 sq ft | — |
| Residential Zoning Districts (General Regulations within 100 feet of residential or park) | 1 | — | — | — |
| Nonresidential Zoning Districts (General Regulations) | 1 | Single‑tenant freestanding: Local 16 ft; Arterial B/Collector 24 ft; Arterial A 40 ft; Expressway 50 ft (≤60 ft above ground). Multi‑tenant freestanding: Local 20 ft; Arterial B/Collector 32 ft; Arterial A 50 ft; Expressway 60 ft (≤70 ft above ground). | Single‑tenant freestanding: Local 75 sq ft; Arterial B/Collector 150 sq ft; Arterial A 240 sq ft; Expressway 375 sq ft. Multi‑tenant freestanding: Local 125 sq ft; Arterial B/Collector 250 sq ft; Arterial A 500 sq ft; Expressway 650 sq ft. | — |
| Historic Landmarks and Districts (special sign regulations via Chapter 35); Historic District (H); Historic Exceptional (HE); Historic Significant (HS) | 1 | — | — | — |
| Neighborhood Conservation Districts (NCD) (special sign regulations via Chapter 35) | 1 | — | — | — |
| Corridor Districts (GC, MC, PC) and Other Corridor Districts via Chapter 35; Gateway Corridor (GC); Metropolitan Corridor (MC); Preservation Corridor (PC) | 1 | — | — | — |
| River Improvement Overlay Districts (RIO) (special sign regulations via Chapter 35) | 1 | — | — | — |
| Airport Hazard Overlay District (AHOD); Airport District (AD) | 1 | — | — | — |
| Military and Mission Related Overlays (MAOZ, MAOZ-1, MAOZ-2, MLOD, MPOD, MSAO) | 1 | — | — | — |
| Other Overlays and Special Districts (EP, ERZD, UCD, VP, DR, ED, FBZD, G, IDZ, MPCD, MR, MXD, NP-8, NP-10, NP-15, PUD, QD, SGD, TOD, IH, IH-related overlays, UCD, VP, etc.) | 1 | — | — | — |
| ETJ (Extrateritorial Jurisdiction) - Off-Premises Signs | 1 | — | Same maximum face areas as in city (672/399/99 sq ft by road classification). | — |
| General Regulations For All Zones (summarizing some additional global categories not above) | 1 | — | — | — |
Zone-by-Zone Sign Requirements in San Antonio(sample of 3 of 22 zones)
Residential Base Zoning Districts and Residential Properties within 100 Feet of a Residential Zone or Public Park (RP, RE, R-20, R-6, R-5, R-4, R-3, RM-6, RM-5, RM-4, MF-18, MF-25, MF-33, MF-40, MF-50, MF-65)
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nameplate (Attached, Non-Illuminated) | — | 1 sq ft | — | — | One per dwelling/occupancy. | Attached to residence, apartment, or mixed‑use building in residential zoning districts, identifying a business authorized in that zoning district or home occupation. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-46(b)(1); Sec. 28-30(a) |
| Freestanding Sign - Residential R-2 and R-3 Occupancy Types | Per Table 1 for the relevant street classification (Local, Arterial Type B/Commercial Collector, Arterial Type A, Expressway) as applied to these occupancies. | Per Table 1 for residential R-2 and R-3 occupancies and/or local/arterial/expressway frontage (exact square footage not spelled out beyond cross-reference). | — | For local streets and residential collectors, freestanding signs must be set back at least 15 ft from any public right‑of‑way and 10 ft from side and rear lot lines abutting residential uses (Sec. 28‑46(b)(3)d). Signs abutting single‑family residential must also meet the separate freestanding residential buffer in Sec. 28‑42 if applicable. | One identification sign per entrance plus freestanding signs allowed by Table 1 based on frontage and spacing. | On properties with R‑2 and R‑3 occupancies (per IBC, e.g., multi-unit residential); at entrances and along frontages per Unified Development Code. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-46(b)(2)–(3); Sec. 28-45(c)–(d) |
| Freestanding Sign - Nonresidential Use in Residential Zone (Local Street Frontage) | 8 ft max height for freestanding on local streets / residential collectors | 36 sq ft for freestanding; 36 sq ft for attached sign | — | For local streets/residential collectors in residential zones, freestanding signs must be at least 15 ft from public ROW and 10 ft from side/rear lot lines abutting residential uses (Sec. 28‑46(b)(3)d). | For nonresidential uses on local streets: one freestanding and one attached sign, each up to 36 sq ft. | On nonresidential uses (e.g., schools, churches) located within residential zoning districts on local streets. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-46(b)(3)a, c, d, e |
| Freestanding Sign - Nonresidential Use in Residential Zone (Arterial / Commercial Collector / Expressway Frontage) | Per Table 1 by street classification (e.g., Local 16 ft; Arterial B 24 ft; Arterial A 40 ft; Expressway 50 ft with grade adjustment). | Per Table 1 for freestanding sign by street classification (Local/Arterial Type B/Arterial Type A/Expressway). | — | For signs over 25 ft in height, minimum 10‑ft setback from street ROW and 10‑ft setback from side or rear lot lines abutting residential property (by cross‑reference to Sec. 28‑47(c)(1)b for arterials/expressways, applied with residential buffer Sec. 28‑42). | Per frontage: one freestanding per 150 ft of frontage, with multiple signs allowed on multiple frontages (Sec. 28‑45(c)(2)), subject to residential use context. | Nonresidential uses located in residential zones with primary frontage on arterials, commercial collectors, or expressways. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-46(b)(3)b–e; Sec. 28‑45(c)–(d) |
| Temporary Sign - Residential Zoned Properties and Residential Uses | 6 ft measured from ground to top of sign | 10 sq ft | — | No closer than 25 ft from a street intersection or median opening; sign edge at least 3 ft from curb or edge of pavement where no curb. Must not encroach on sidewalks or streets (Sec. 28‑73(a)(6)). | Not expressly numerically limited per lot; practical limit governed by spacing and underlying event/property context. | On private property in residential zoning districts and residential uses identified in UDC Table 311‑1; must be on private property with owner’s permission. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-73(a)(1)–(7); Sec. 28‑30(f); Sec. 28‑72(h)–(j) |
Nonresidential Base Zoning Districts and Nonresidential Uses (NC, C-1, C-2NA, C-2P, C-2, O-1, O-1.5, O-2, C-3NA, C-3R, C-3, D, L, I-1, I-2, FR, RD, UD, MI-1, MI-2, BP, DR, ED, FBZD, G, IDZ, MH, MHC, MHP, MPCD, MR, MXD, NP-8, NP-10, NP-15, PUD, QD, SGD, TOD, MXD-related special districts when used nonresidentially)
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freestanding Sign - Local Street Frontage | 16 ft for first freestanding sign; additional signs at ≤75% of that height (12 ft) | 75 sq ft for first freestanding sign; additional signs at ≤75% of that area (56.25 sq ft) | — | Set back minimum 5 ft from street right‑of‑way and 10 ft from all interior side lot lines (Sec. 28‑47(b)(1)b). | Baseline: one freestanding per lot per local street frontage; additional freestanding signs allowed with minimum spacing of 150 ft of street frontage; additional signs sized at 75% of first sign (Sec. 28‑45(c)(1)-(2); Sec. 28‑47(b)(1)a). | On nonresidentially zoned or used lots fronting local streets; one freestanding sign per platted lot per frontage, additional with spacing. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-45(c)(1)–(2); Table 1; Sec. 28‑47(b)(1), (b)(2)c |
| Freestanding Sign - Arterial Type A / Arterial Type B / Commercial Collector (Nonresidential) | Arterial Type B / Commercial Collector: 24 ft (first sign); Arterial Type A: 40 ft (first sign). Additional freestanding signs at ≤75% of first sign height. | Arterial Type B / Commercial Collector: 150 sq ft (first sign); Arterial Type A: 240 sq ft (first sign). Additional freestanding signs at ≤75% of first sign area. | — | If sign height exceeds 25 ft, must be set back at least 10 ft from street ROW; must be set back at least 10 ft from side/rear lot lines if adjacent property is zoned or used residential (Sec. 28‑47(c)(1)b). | One freestanding sign per platted lot per frontage; additional signs allowed at minimum spacing of every 150 linear ft, with reduced size/height (75% rule). | Nonresidentially zoned/used lots fronting Arterial Type A or Arterial Type B/Commercial Collector streets. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-45(c)(1)–(2); Table 1; Sec. 28‑47(c)(1)a |
| Freestanding Sign - Expressway Frontage (Nonresidential) | 50 ft above adjacent street grade for first freestanding sign, not to exceed 60 ft above ground level (Table 1); additional freestanding signs at ≤75% of that height (37.5 ft). | 375 sq ft for first freestanding sign (Table 1); additional freestanding signs on same frontage at ≤75% of that area (281.25 sq ft). | — | Setback requirements follow arterial standards in Sec. 28‑47(c)(1)b: if >25 ft high, 10 ft minimum from street ROW; 10 ft from side/rear lot lines adjacent to residential. | Per frontage: one freestanding sign, plus additional signs every 150 ft with 75% height/area rule. | On nonresidentially zoned/used lots fronting expressways. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-45(c)(1)–(2); Table 1; Sec. 28‑47(d)(1)a–b |
| Freestanding Multiple-Tenant Sign - Local Street Frontage (Nonresidential) | 20 ft (Table 2). | 125 sq ft per sign (Table 2); individual tenant panels cannot exceed 75 sq ft (the single‑tenant local street freestanding max from Table 1). | — | Same as other freestanding signs on same street type; for local streets, generally ≥5 ft from ROW and 10 ft from interior side lot lines (by Sec. 28‑47(b)(1) when pole‑type). | One per platted lot per frontage; additional multiple‑tenant signs allowed with 150‑ft spacing and 75% size/height rule via Sec. 28‑45(c) unless superseded by a sign master plan. | On multi‑tenant nonresidential developments fronting local streets. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-45(d); Table 2; Sec. 28‑44(b) |
| Freestanding Multiple-Tenant Sign - Arterial Type B / Commercial Collector (Nonresidential) | 32 ft (Table 2). | 250 sq ft per sign (Table 2); individual tenant’s portion cannot exceed 150 sq ft (single‑tenant Table 1 limit). | — | If >25 ft tall, minimum 10‑ft setback from street ROW; 10 ft from side/rear lot lines adjacent to residential (Sec. 28‑47(c)(1)b). | Per frontage: one; additional with 150‑ft spacing and 75% size/height rule. | Multi‑tenant nonresidential properties fronting Arterial Type B/Commercial Collector streets. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-45(d); Table 2; Sec. 28‑45(e); Sec. 28‑44(b) |
| Freestanding Multiple-Tenant Sign - Arterial Type A (Nonresidential) | 50 ft (Table 2). | 500 sq ft per sign (Table 2); individual tenant’s portion per sign may not exceed 240 sq ft (freestanding Table 1 Arterial A limit) and 375 sq ft of total advertising on the multi‑tenant sign at any time. | — | Same as other tall freestanding signs on arterials (≥10 ft from ROW and side/rear adjacent to residential) (Sec. 28‑47(c)(1)b). | Per frontage: one; additional with 150‑ft spacing at 75% size/height. | Multi‑tenant nonresidential developments fronting Arterial Type A streets. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-45(d); Table 2; Sec. 28‑45(e); Sec. 28‑44(b) |
| Freestanding Multiple-Tenant Sign - Expressway (Nonresidential) | 60 ft above adjacent street grade, not to exceed 70 ft above ground level (Table 2). | 650 sq ft per sign (Table 2); individual tenant’s portion limited to 375 sq ft (freestanding Table 1 expressway limit and Sec. 28‑45(e)). | — | As for expressway single‑tenant freestanding signs: tall signs must be ≥10 ft from ROW and 10 ft from side/rear adjacent to residential; 100‑ft setback from nearest street easement for expressway‑sized signs without expressway frontage (see next). | One per expressway frontage; additional with 150‑ft spacing at 75% size/height. | Multi‑tenant nonresidential properties fronting expressways. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-45(d); Table 2; Sec. 28‑45(e); Sec. 28‑44(b); Sec. 28‑45(f) |
| Freestanding Expressway-Standard Sign on Lots within 500 ft of Expressway (No Expressway Frontage) | 50 ft single‑tenant, 60 ft multi‑tenant (expressway standards) with overall ground caps (60 ft single‑tenant, 70 ft multi‑tenant). | 375 sq ft single‑tenant; 650 sq ft multi‑tenant (expressway standards). | — | ≥100 ft from nearest street easement or ROW; ≥200 ft from nearest residential zone; general yard setbacks of underlying zoning also apply. | As per general freestanding sign count/spacing rules (one per frontage plus additional every 150 ft at 75% height/area). | Nonresidential lots located within 500 ft of an expressway but lacking direct expressway frontage. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-45(f) |
Off-Premises Signs (City-Wide, All Zoning Districts, Including ETJ)
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Off-Premises Sign - General Relocated Billboard | 42.5 ft above adjacent street grade (centerline of main‑traveled way, excluding frontage road) with absolute max 60 ft above ground level. | Maximum face area per direction by street type: 672 sq ft along freeways/expressways/interstates; 399 sq ft along arterials; 99 sq ft along collectors/local access streets. Embellishments/cutouts may add up to 20% extra area beyond face area (but not counted toward regulated face area). | — | As detailed above: general yard setbacks for zoning category; ≥30 ft from adjacent residential; radii from parks/cultural/historic/university uses; ≥15 ft from overpass/bridge railings; 0‑setback allowed on side/rear only where zoning permits and no residential adjacency, with no overhang beyond property line. | Limited by spacing rules and relocation program quotas; new non‑relocated off‑premises signs prohibited. | Off‑premises billboards relocated under city’s relocation program within commercial/industrial zones and permitted corridors; prohibited in scenic corridors and historic districts; additional setback restrictions near parks, cultural facilities, historic structures/districts, universities, and residential zones. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-51; Sec. 28‑52(1)–(6); Sec. 28‑31(d)(2)–(3); Sec. 28‑55; Sec. 28‑58 |
| Off-Premises Digital Sign - Existing Pilot Program Signs | Underlying billboard height cap: 42.5 ft above adjacent street grade, ≤60 ft above ground. | ≤672 sq ft per digital display face; additional rules may cap by original structure size. | — | Same as underlying off‑premises billboard; digital face does not change structural setbacks. | Citywide caps: 13 existing pilot off‑premises digitals plus limited additional ones under DMA and 2024‑26 conversion program; spacing 2,000 ft between digital billboards and other structural spacing/relocation limits. | Existing legally permitted off‑premises digital signs (initially 15 pilot permits, plus later expansions via DMA and 2024‑26 conversion program) in allowed corridors; prohibited in specified downtown/historic/overlay areas and near city limits, other digital billboards, and certain HL/HE/HS properties. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-54(a)–(g); Sec. 28‑52; Ordinance notes in Sec. 28‑54 |
| Off-Premises Sign - Scenic Corridors and Historic Districts (Prohibition) | — | — | — | N/A – new off‑premises signs not allowed in these areas. | Limited to preexisting nonconforming signs until abated. | Scenic corridors: within 660 ft of specified expressways/highways/streets (FIG list in Sec. 28‑58(a)); historic districts: within district boundaries. | — | Unlock | Sec. 28-58(a)–(c); Sec. 28‑55; Sec. 28‑56 |
PermitPal covers all 22 zoning districts in San Antonio — full sign requirements for every zone, plus illumination rules, size formulas, and permit requirements for every sign type — with a free account.
See all 22 zones for San Antonio — start freeProhibited Signs in San Antonio
- No sign or related structure may be approved or erected in contravention to public life, health, safety and welfare considerations; a sign so constructed constitutes a violation of the chapter.
- Signs may not be erected which obstruct the view of operators of motor vehicles on public streets or entering such streets from private property.
- Signs may not be erected or be in the process of being erected where they constitute a public hazard or an obstruction to building egress, such as a window or door.
- Signs may not be supported on or attached to any fire escape, door, or window casing.
- Signs with damage, deterioration or other defects that constitute a hazard to public life, health, safety and welfare are prohibited and subject to abatement.
- Revolving beams or beacons of light resembling any emergency vehicle light and signs resembling traffic control signs are prohibited.
- Signs may not encroach or project over city public property or right-of-way except as expressly authorized in the chapter.
- Portable signs are prohibited except where expressly authorized in the chapter.
- Digital display signs may not be configured to resemble a warning or danger signal or be easily confusable with a warning or danger signal.
- Digital display signs may not resemble or simulate any lights or official signage used to control traffic in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
- Signs emitting excessive luminance are prohibited.
- Any purported city authorization to erect a sign in violation of the public-safety prohibitions of Sec. 28-4(1) is invalid and automatically rescinded.
- A person may not impersonate the director or designees through use of a uniform, identification card, badge or any other means; such impersonation is a violation of the chapter.
- Any sign erected or maintained in a manner that constitutes an immediate threat to the health, safety or welfare of the public, or is dangerously damaged or deteriorated, is declared a public nuisance, unlawful, and subject to abatement.
- No person may affix a sign or bill to any private property without first obtaining written permission of the owner or owner’s agent.
- Except as expressly provided, no person may affix a sign or bill to any public property, including public right-of-way, without written permission of the city (through legislative action or approved permitting procedures).
- Recorded private sign easement agreements or other legal agreements that eliminate or purport to eliminate the distinctions between on‑premises and off‑premises sign types, single and multi‑tenant sign types, or sign sizes by zoning district or street classification constitute a violation of the chapter.
- All persons engaging in the business of erecting, painting, servicing, refacing, maintaining or demolishing signs regulated by the chapter must be licensed and insured; it is unlawful to perform such work without required license and insurance, except where specifically excepted.
- Only a registered contractor or city‑licensed contractor may obtain sign permits for installation, erection, or alteration of any sign; it is unlawful for a licensee to obtain a permit on behalf of an unlicensed person whose business would require a license.
- It is unlawful for a license holder to allow his or her name or license to be used by any other party for doing work or obtaining a permit.
- It is unlawful for any person whose sign‑related license has been suspended or revoked to engage in or do sign work for which a permit is required.
- The issuance of a permit does not legalize any violation; permits that purport to authorize violation of the chapter or other ordinances are not valid.
- All signs and components must be erected and maintained in good repair, with proper and secure structural supports, and immediate surrounding area free of weeds, trash, and refuse.
- No signs may be erected on or over public property in a manner that interferes with any fire hydrant, traffic light, fire alarm box, or street light.
- Off‑premises and on‑premises signs may not be erected where, by reason of traffic conditions, fire, or explosion hazards, the sign would imperil public safety or hamper fire department functions.
- Signs must be securely fastened or anchored with sufficient bolts or anchors to resist dead load and wind loads; use of staples, wires, and wood plugs in erecting signs is prohibited.
- Signs may not be situated so as to interfere with or obstruct windows, doors, or other means of exit; no sign may be supported on or attached to any fire escape, door, or window casing.
- No structure, including signs, may be maintained within the 25‑foot visibility triangle formed at street intersections on required corner lots; signs in this triangular area of public right‑of‑way are illegal and subject to removal without prior notification.
- Signs within the public right‑of‑way but outside the 25‑foot triangle are presumed illegal unless specifically permitted and are subject to removal and penalties, without prior notification, if not lawfully authorized.
- No sign may be placed within the clear vision area defined in Chapter 35 of the City Code.
- All signs regulated under the chapter (excluding electric signs) must be constructed of durable materials and securely attached to frameworks/supports of equivalent strength; all electric signs must have metal supports and frames.
- New off‑premises signs are prohibited in the city; no new construction permits may be issued for off‑premises signs except for relocation of a legally erected existing off‑premises sign as authorized.
- Off‑premises signs that utilize intermittent or flashing illumination, change light intensity/brightness/color, create an appearance or illusion of motion, or utilize sound are prohibited.
- Animated, moving, flashing, or rotating signs, and roof signs, are prohibited in designated urban corridors unless specifically authorized by city council for a unifying theme.
- Temporary sign placement is prohibited in the city and ETJ unless permitted as provided in the temporary‑signs division; signs in violation constitute “bandit signs.”
- Temporary signs are prohibited if they exceed applicable maximum area, exceed applicable maximum height, are illuminated, or have moving elements.
- Temporary signs may not encroach on sidewalks or streets and may not be placed closer than 25 feet from street intersections or median openings.
- Private profiteering involving unauthorized temporary sign placement is prohibited.
- It is unlawful to intentionally place or display any portable sign on any premises or use it with a mobile sign in transit for commercial advertising, except for certain nonconforming portable signs lawfully registered under prior law.
- Any bandit sign placed in the right‑of‑way or on public property is declared a nuisance and may be confiscated and disposed of immediately without notice; placement of bandit signs is a criminal offense subject to escalating fines.
- Temporary off‑premises signs on city street right‑of‑way must comply with strict schedule, size, spacing, and location rules; placement contrary to those rules is prohibited.
- Mobile signs in transit exceeding 32 square feet in area are unlawful without approval of the director (except where the vehicle is used principally for a purpose other than advertising).
- Vehicles used principally for commercial advertising must comply with off‑premises sign requirements.
- Temporary signs on public property or right‑of‑way may not be placed on the state highway system or in a scenic or urban corridor unless otherwise authorized by law.
- Off‑premises signs are prohibited along designated scenic corridors and in historic districts.
- Off‑premises signs are prohibited in specified urban corridor districts (e.g., IH‑10/FM 1604, Broadway, Fredericksburg Road, North St. Mary’s Street, Main/McCullough, San Pedro corridors).
- In urban corridors, certain sign types are prohibited, including specified animated/flash/motion signs, certain three‑dimensional objects, roof signs, and certain illumination‑changing signs unless specially authorized by city council.
- In residential zones (and within 100 feet thereof), no sign or part of a sign may move, flash, rotate, or change its illumination (for those signs regulated under Sec. 28‑46).
Exempt Signs in San Antonio
- Letters or figures on windows, doors, awnings, and advertising benches placed pursuant to a contract with the city are not addressed by Chapter 28 and are treated as exempt from its provisions.
- Government signs (signs erected and maintained pursuant to and in discharge of governmental functions, or required by law, ordinance, or other governmental regulation) are exempt from the provisions of the chapter unless otherwise specifically regulated.
- Government signs are exempt from permit requirements, except where the chapter or other law specifically provides otherwise.
- On‑premise non‑illuminated signs not exceeding one (1) square foot of facing, attached to a residence, apartment, or mixed‑use building used solely for a home occupation, are exempt from permit requirements.
- Non‑electric or non‑illuminated signs not exceeding thirty‑two (32) square feet of facing, composed of durable material, located wholly on private property, securely affixed to a building, fence or wall, and having frame/trim not more than three (3) inches wide, are exempt from permits (except they must still comply with erection and maintenance regulations and are not exempt in the Riverwalk Area).
- Signs or markers on public property used by a public utility holding a city franchise to designate bus stops or cab stands are exempt from permit requirements.
- Incidental/way‑finding signs (as defined) are exempt from permit requirements.
- Temporary signs on residential‑zoned properties and residential‑zoned uses that are a maximum of ten (10) square feet in area and comply with section 28‑73 are exempt from permit requirements.
- City department work programs such as “Movies in the Park” are authorized to use on‑premises signs or on‑premises digital displays on public property and are exempt from the temporary‑public‑property permit requirements.
- Government placement of signs on public property or street right‑of‑way, when authorized in writing and for the time and location specified, is an affirmative defense to prosecution for those placements.
- Within urban corridors, the following signs are exempt from the urban‑corridor permit requirement: governmental signs; non‑electric directional signs not exceeding 15 square feet and 8 feet in height, wholly on private property; and signs less than 15 square feet not designed to be read by the traveling public (e.g., menu boards, pump decals, spanners).
- Public art (as distinguished from signs) is not subject to the temporary public‑property sign restrictions of Sec. 28‑75(e).
- Two city‑facility DMA (Digital Media and Arts) program signs are subject to city procurement and special program rules and are treated separately from general sign‑code permit limitations.
Sign Permit Fees & Timelines in San Antonio
| Item | Details | Citation |
|---|---|---|
| On-premises sign permits | On-premises sign permit fee: ≤32 ft² of sign area: $10.80; >32 ft² of sign area: $10.80 + $0.22 per ft² over 32 ft². | Sec. 28-76 |
| Completeness Review | The director shall review the notice of appeal for completeness within three (3) working days. (starts when Appeal of director’s interpretation submitted) | Sec. 28-5(d)(2)b |
| See all San Antonio sign permit fees & timelines — start free | ||
Source: municode municipal code