Temporary Event Signage Permits - Long Beach

Land Use and Zoning California 4 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of California

Long Beach, California event organizers must follow city rules for temporary signs used at festivals, parades, pop-ups, and other short-term events. This guide explains what counts as temporary event signage, how to apply, typical timelines, enforcement, and practical steps to reduce risk of citations. Read local code references and the city special-events guidance to confirm requirements before printing or installing banners, A-frames, posters, or street-level signs.

What qualifies as temporary event signage

Temporary event signage generally includes banners, street-level posters, yard signs, sandwich boards, feather flags, and banner installations for a few days to a few weeks connected to a specific event. Signs attached to public property, city poles, or in the public right-of-way often need separate approval and may require coordination with Public Works or Parks. Check municipal sign sections and special event permit pages for exact definitions and restrictions [1].

Confirm whether your signs will be on private property or in the public right-of-way before printing.

Permit process

Organizers should plan at least 2–6 weeks before the event to secure approvals. Typical steps are application, plan review, fee payment (if any), and issuance of a temporary sign authorization or inclusion in a special event permit. If the signage uses or alters public fixtures, coordinate an encroachment or banner permit with the city.

  • Complete the Special Event or Temporary Use Permit application where required; submit site plans showing sign locations.
  • Allow time for plan review and interdepartmental routing (Planning, Public Works, Fire) before installation.
  • Pay any permit, inspection, or encroachment fees as required by the issuing department.
  • Schedule any required inspections and comply with conditions (height, mounting, illumination, setback).

Applications & Forms

The city posts Special Event and Temporary Use application forms on departmental permit pages. Specific form names and submission methods vary by event type; fees and submittal portals are listed on the applicable permit page [2]. If a standalone "temporary sign permit" form is required, it will be identified on those pages; if not, signage is authorized through the event permit. Fees and exact form numbers are not specified on the cited page.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of temporary sign rules is carried out by City Code Enforcement, Planning/Building staff, and Public Works for right-of-way matters. Specific civil penalties, daily fines, or misdemeanor provisions applicable to sign violations are contained in the municipal code; amounts and escalation details are not specified on the cited pages and must be confirmed in the code or by contacting enforcement staff [1].

If signs are installed without approval they may be removed immediately by the city.
  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal of signs, abatement orders, stop-work directives, and referral to court where authorized.
  • Enforcer and complaints: City Code Enforcement and Planning; contact details are provided in the Help and Support section below.
  • Appeals/review: procedures and time limits for administrative appeals are set by municipal code or departmental rules; specific appeal periods are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

Form names and submission portals for event permits are maintained by the Planning/Permits or Parks departments; if a separate sign permit exists it will be referenced on those pages. Fee amounts and exact form identifiers are not specified on the cited pages and should be confirmed with the issuing office [2].

FAQ

Do I always need a permit for temporary event signs?
No — signs on private property that meet size, location, and duration limits may not need a separate city permit; signs in the public right-of-way or attached to city infrastructure typically require approval.
How far in advance should I apply?
Apply as early as possible; plan for at least 2–6 weeks for review and coordination depending on complexity and whether right-of-way use is requested.
Who do I contact about enforcement or citations?
Contact City Code Enforcement or the Planning Division; specific contact links are in Help and Support / Resources.

How-To

  1. Determine sign locations and whether any signs will be on public property or city fixtures.
  2. Consult the municipal sign rules and the city special events/temporary use permit page to identify the required application(s) [1].
  3. Prepare a site plan showing sign types, sizes, mounting details, and duration.
  4. Submit the Special Event or Temporary Use application and pay any applicable fees [2].
  5. Install signs only after permit approval and any required inspections; keep proof of authorization on site during the event.

Key Takeaways

  • Start permit planning 2–6 weeks before your event.
  • Signs in the public right-of-way often need explicit city approval.
  • Unpermitted signs risk removal and potential fines.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Long Beach Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of Long Beach Special Events permits and information

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