Sign Regulations in Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington has specific sign regulations covering 44 sign types across 12 zoning districts. Regulated sign types include Memorial/Building Name/Dates (Masonry/Bronze), Public Facility/Safety Signs, Nameplate (Dwelling Occupant). Height restrictions apply. Permits are required for most commercial signs. Use PermitPal to get instant access to the complete regulations.
Data last verified: February 20, 2026
Sign Regulation Overview for Seattle, Washington
Sample Sign Requirements in Seattle
| Sign Type | Max Height | Max Area | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary Sign (General) | Temporary signs in planting strip: within 30 ft of intersection curbline: 24 in; 30 ft+ from intersection: 36 in | 8 sq ft per building lot in neighborhood residential zones; 24 sq ft per building lot in all other zones; noncommercial messages: up to 8 sq ft per dwelling unit, and for buildings with 8+ dwelling units, real estate banner may be up to 36 sq ft for one 9-month period | — |
| Sign Kiosk | 9 ft (includes 2 ft for artistic decoration) | Up to four sections, each max 7 ft high, 3 ft wide (center to center of supports, may be up to 14 ft total width if four sections), and 6 in deep; up to 2 ft extra height for decoration (total max 9 ft); single posting max 8.5 in x 14 in | — |
| Video Display Method Signs (General) | 15 ft above grade (pole signs min 10 ft above grade) | 1000 sq in and no dimension over 3 ft, OR meets requirements for 'Exhibit A Area' OR 'grandfathered' sign; if within Exhibit A Area and minimum 15 ft from curb, max 20 sq ft per face | If within Exhibit A, min 15 ft from curb |
* Sample data shown. Actual requirements may vary by zone. Use PermitPal for complete, location-specific regulations.
Sign Types Covered
44
- Memorial/Building Name/Dates (Masonry/Bronze)
- Public Facility/Safety Signs
- Nameplate (Dwelling Occupant)
- Flags (National, State, Institutional)
- +2 more types
Zoning Districts
12
Different zoning districts with specific sign regulations
Data Includes
- Permit requirements
- Height restrictions
- Illumination rules
Official Resources for Seattle
Other Cities in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
Sign height limits in Seattle 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 Seattle, 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 Seattle, regulated sign types include Memorial/Building Name/Dates (Masonry/Bronze), Public Facility/Safety Signs, Nameplate (Dwelling Occupant), Flags (National, State, Institutional), 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 Seattle 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 Seattle are regulated with specific requirements for brightness, animation, and message duration. Seattle has documented illumination rules in our database. Use PermitPal to see the exact requirements for electronic message centers.
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