Do I need a permit to replace an existing sign?

Replacing like-for-like components may still require a permit if structural work or electrical changes are involved; check with Planning/Building for your project specifics.

How tall can a freestanding sign be?

Maximum freestanding sign height depends on zoning and frontage; the numeric limit is not specified on the cited page and must be confirmed with the citys sign regulations or Planning.

Are illuminated signs allowed in all zones?

Illuminated signs are allowed in many commercial zones with restrictions on type, shielding and hours; consult the sign standards for your zone.

Long Beach Sign Size, Height & Illumination Standards

Land Use and Zoning California 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026

Long Beach, California businesses that install signs must follow local sign standards that control size, height, placement and illumination to protect safety and neighborhood character. This guide summarizes the key permit steps, typical limits by zone, enforcement pathways and common violations so property owners and tenants can prepare compliant designs and applications. Where exact figures or fee schedules are not published on the official pages cited, the text notes "not specified on the cited page" and points to the enforcing office for confirmation.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of sign regulations in Long Beach is carried out by the citys code enforcement and planning/building divisions. Monetary fines, stop-work orders, removal orders, or notice to appear in court may be used; exact fine amounts and escalation schedules are not specified on the cited page. Appeals and administrative review routes vary by permit type and are not specified on the cited page. For inspections, complaints, and to report an unpermitted or unsafe sign, contact Long Beach Code Enforcement^[1].

Fines: not specified on the cited page.
Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, removal or abatement orders, court proceedings.
Appeals/review: administrative appeal or judicial review routes may apply; time limits not specified on the cited page.
Enforcer: Long Beach Code Enforcement and Planning/Building divisions; use official complaint channels to request inspection.
Report unsafe or unpermitted signs promptly to the citys enforcement office.

Applications & Forms

Most permanent and many temporary signs require a sign permit from the citys planning or building permit office. The specific application form name or number and fee schedule are not specified on the cited page; applicants should use the Development Services/Planning permit intake process or the Permit Center for submission guidance.

Standards: Size, Height, Placement & Illumination

Long Beach sign standards typically vary by zoning district and sign type (wall, projecting/blade, freestanding, canopy, window, temporary). Common controls include maximum sign area, maximum height above grade, minimum clearance for pedestrian areas, and rules for externally or internally illuminated signs to limit glare and light spill. Where the municipal code or zoning sign chapter provides specific numeric limits for a zone, follow those figures; where a numeric limit is not reproduced here it is "not specified on the cited page" and applicants should verify the exact standard with Planning.

Sign area: varies by zone and frontage; consult zoning sign table.
Height limits: differ for wall signs vs freestanding signs; confirm with Planning.
Illumination: rules control type, shielding and hours to prevent glare.

Temporary signs usually have shorter maximum durations and placement limits than permanent signs.

Common Violations

Installing a sign without a permit.
Exceeding permitted sign area or height.
Using unshielded illumination causing light spill onto neighboring properties.

How to

Determine your zoning district and the sign types allowed for your property.
Prepare schematic drawings showing dimensions, mounting, materials and illumination details.
Contact the Permit Center or Planning intake to confirm required forms and fees.
Submit the sign permit application with site plans, drawings and owner authorization.
Address any plan-check corrections requested by staff and obtain approved permit.
Schedule inspections if required and install per approved plans; retain permits on site.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to replace an existing sign?: Replacing like-for-like components may still require a permit if structural work or electrical changes are involved; check with Planning/Building for your project specifics.
How tall can a freestanding sign be?: Maximum freestanding sign height depends on zoning and frontage; the numeric limit is not specified on the cited page and must be confirmed with the citys sign regulations or Planning.
Are illuminated signs allowed in all zones?: Illuminated signs are allowed in many commercial zones with restrictions on type, shielding and hours; consult the sign standards for your zone.

Key Takeaways

Most permanent signs require a city sign permit and plans.
Enforcement can include removal orders and fines; confirm procedures with Code Enforcement.
Verify numeric area and height limits for your zoning district before ordering fabrication.