Long Beach Nonprofit Banner Permit Guide

Signs and Advertising California 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of California

Long Beach, California nonprofits and community groups that want to display banners on public property or over public rights-of-way must follow city rules and obtain any required permits before installation. This guide summarizes how to identify whether a permit is required, the typical application steps, responsible city offices, enforcement pathways and practical timelines to plan for events or campaigns. It focuses on banners attached to street poles, bridges and other municipal fixtures and highlights common compliance issues to avoid last-minute removals or citations.

Start the permit process at least 4–8 weeks before your planned display date.

Overview

Banner permits in Long Beach are handled through municipal departments that manage public property and street use. Requirements depend on ownership of the support structure, location, size and duration. Private-property banners generally follow sign rules under the municipal code, while banners on city-owned poles, lampposts or over streets require authorization from the city department that manages that facility.

Penalties & Enforcement

Fine amounts and specific penalties for unauthorised banners are not specified on the cited page; contact the enforcing department listed in Resources for exact figures. Enforcement is typically civil and administrative: removal orders, administrative citations or notice to the sponsoring organization. Repeat or continuing violations may result in additional citations and removal at the owner's expense.

  • Common violations: installing without a permit, mounting on prohibited fixtures, obstructing traffic or signage, or leaving banners beyond approved time limits.
  • Enforcer: Long Beach Development Services and Public Works (or the department with jurisdiction over the specific public asset) handle inspections and compliance actions.
  • Monetary penalties: not specified on the cited page.
  • Appeals and review: administrative appeal routes may be available; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, permit denials, repair or restoration requirements, and possible restrictions on future permits.

Applications & Forms

Application steps, required drawings, and proof of insurance vary by department and location. The city publishes application forms and submittal checklists for public right-of-way uses when applicable; if no form is available online for your exact request, contact the responsible office listed in Resources to request the correct application and submission instructions.

  • Typical materials: completed application, site map or plan, mounting details, dates and duration, and proof of insurance.
  • Fees: specific fees are not specified on the cited page and must be confirmed with the issuing department.
  • Deadlines: submit early; review times vary and may require concurrent review by multiple city divisions.
  • Submission: many applications accept emailed or online submissions; confirm format with the department.
If you plan banners on or over a street, coordinate with Public Works early to confirm safety standards.

Action Steps

  • Identify the property owner of the support structure and whether it is city-owned.
  • Contact the Long Beach Development Services or Public Works office listed in Resources to request the correct application and fee schedule.
  • Prepare required drawings, insurance certificates, and mounting details, and submit the application early.
  • Pay any permit fees and schedule inspections if required prior to installation.
  • Maintain approved conditions and remove banners promptly at the end of the permitted period.

FAQ

Do nonprofits need a permit to hang banners on city poles or over streets?
Yes; banners on city-owned fixtures or over public rights-of-way generally require authorization from the department that manages that asset.
How long does permit review usually take?
Review times vary by department and scope; allow several weeks and submit as early as possible to avoid delays.
What happens if a banner is installed without permission?
The city may issue removal orders or administrative citations and may remove the banner at the sponsor's expense.

How-To

  1. Confirm the exact location and whether the fixture is city-owned or private.
  2. Contact the appropriate city department to request the banner permit application and submittal checklist.
  3. Complete the application, attach site plans, mounting details and insurance, and pay the fee.
  4. Wait for approval and any required inspection schedule before installing the banner.
  5. Install per permit conditions and remove the banner when the permit period ends.

Key Takeaways

  • City approval is usually required for banners on public property or over streets.
  • Apply early; review can take multiple weeks.
  • Noncompliance can lead to removal orders or citations.

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