Tempe Junction Sidewalk Sign Rules - Bylaw
Tempe Junction, Arizona businesses must follow local rules for sidewalk A-frames and sandwich boards to avoid fines and removals. This guide explains where you may place temporary signs, the permit and clearance requirements, how enforcement works, and practical steps to comply so pedestrians and businesses stay safe and lawful in Tempe Junction.
Where sidewalk A-frames are allowed
Sidewalk signs (A-frames, sandwich boards) are generally permitted in commercial areas if they do not obstruct pedestrian clearances, block ADA routes, or violate size and anchoring limits. Exact placement, size, and time restrictions are governed by the city sign regulations and the streets/rights-of-way rules administered by the Planning and Code Compliance departments Tempe Junction Sign Regulations[1].
Basic technical requirements
- Maximum dimensions: check the local sign rules for allowed height and width; if not listed, size limits are not specified on the cited page Sign permit and dimensional guidance[2].
- Hours of display: temporary sign hours may be limited by ordinance or permit conditions; hours are not specified on the cited page.
- Clearance: maintain unobstructed pedestrian passage and a clear accessible route per ADA standards; check Planning guidelines for right-of-way use.
- Anchoring and materials: signs must be stable and wind-resistant to avoid hazards; detailed construction requirements may be in the sign permit documentation or building codes.
Permits, approvals, and exceptions
Some sidewalk signs require a temporary sign permit or a streets/right-of-way use authorization. Sidewalk signs on private property that do not encroach on public right-of-way typically need fewer approvals, but storefronts using the public sidewalk must obtain permission from the Planning or Transportation division. For permit forms, fees, and submission portals see the Development Services and Permits pages Sign permit and dimensional guidance[2].
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement is handled by the City Code Compliance / Code Enforcement unit and Planning/Development staff. Typical enforcement steps include inspection, notice of violation, order to remove or correct the sign, and fines for noncompliance. If specific fine amounts or escalation schedules are not posted on the cited enforcement page, the text will note that they are "not specified on the cited page." Official complaint and contact procedures are provided by the Code Compliance office Code Compliance contact[3].
- Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; fine amounts and per-day calculations must be confirmed with Code Compliance.
- Escalation: first offence, repeat, and continuing offence escalation levels are not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove or abate signs, seizure of unauthorized signs, and civil court actions may be used.
- Enforcer and reporting: Code Compliance and Planning; use the city contact page to report violations and submit photos.
- Appeals: appeal or request administrative review per the notice of violation; specific time limits for appeal are not specified on the cited page and should be confirmed with the issuing office.
Applications & Forms
The city publishes sign permit application and instructions via Development Services. If a specific form name or number is required, consult the Sign Permit page; if the form number is not listed on the official page, it is not specified on the cited page Sign permits and application[2].
Common violations
- Blocking required pedestrian clearway or ADA route.
- Placing a sign in the public right-of-way without a permit.
- Using unstable or hazardous materials that pose a public safety risk.
Action steps for businesses
- Confirm whether your sign will occupy public sidewalk space and check permit requirements.
- Apply for a temporary sign permit if required and follow dimensional rules in the permit packet.
- Contact Code Compliance for pre-inspection or to report concerns before placing a sign.
- Pay any applicable permit fees as listed on the Development Services site.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit to place an A-frame on the sidewalk?
- It depends on whether the sign occupies public right-of-way; many sidewalk displays require a permit or an authorization from Planning/Development.
- How much clear pedestrian space must I leave?
- Maintain the minimum pedestrian clearway and accessible route per city guidelines and ADA standards; check Planning for the exact clearance requirement.
- What happens if I receive a violation notice?
- Follow the correction order promptly, contact Code Compliance to discuss remedies, and pursue the appeal route if you have grounds; specific appeal deadlines are provided on the notice or by the issuing office.
How-To
- Verify whether the proposed sign location is on private property or public sidewalk and review the sign rules.
- Measure and ensure the sign meets dimensional and clearance requirements set by the city.
- Submit a temporary sign permit application if required and pay any fees.
- Place the sign securely, keep it within permitted hours, and remove it when the permit expires or upon instruction.
Key Takeaways
- Sidewalk A-frames are commonly allowed but often require permits when they occupy public right-of-way.
- Maintain pedestrian clearance and ADA access to avoid removal and fines.
Help and Support / Resources
- City Code Compliance - Contact and complaint forms
- Sign permits and application information
- Planning & Development Division