San Bernardino Sign Size, Height & Accessibility

Land Use and Zoning California 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of California

This guide explains sign size, height and accessibility rules that apply in San Bernardino, California for businesses, developments and property owners. It summarizes what the municipal code and local permitting offices require, how to get permits or variances, typical compliance checks, and the steps to resolve enforcement actions. Use this as a starting point before manufacturing or installing signs; final requirements come from the City of San Bernardino planning and building divisions and the city municipal code.

Scope: which signs are regulated

San Bernardino regulates on-site and off-site signs, temporary and permanent signage, and signs attached to buildings or freestanding. Federal and state accessibility standards (e.g., ADA, California Building Code Title 24) also apply to sign characters and mounting where the city references them. For exact definitions and classification (e.g., directional, awning, wall, monument, electronic), consult the municipal code and planning division resources listed below.

Standards: size, height and placement

Sign area, maximum height and placement commonly depend on zoning district, frontage length, and whether the sign is on private property or within a public right-of-way. Setbacks from curbs, visibility at intersections, and clearances over sidewalks are also typical controls. Specific numeric limits and measurement methods are set in the city sign regulations and zoning tables; see the municipal code and planning pages listed below for the authoritative tables and diagrams.

Accessibility requirements

Signs that serve a functional purpose for navigation and safety (restrooms, exits, accessible parking, directional signage) must comply with accessibility standards cited by the city, including character height, contrast, tactile lettering, mounting height and reach ranges. Where the city invokes Title 24 or the ADA, those federal/state standards govern technical details.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City enforces sign rules through planning, building and code enforcement staff and may require removal, modification or permit application for noncompliant signs. The municipal code and enforcement procedures identify administrative remedies and possible court actions.

  • Fines: specific dollar amounts are not specified on the cited pages.
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence escalation ranges are not specified on the cited pages.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, stop-work orders, permit withholding, or abatement of illegal signs are described in city enforcement materials.
  • Enforcer: Planning Division, Building & Safety, and Code Enforcement handle inspections and enforcement; appeal routes typically run through administrative review or code compliance hearings.
  • Inspection & complaints: property owners or neighbors can report suspected violations to the city departments listed under Resources below.
If a sign is already installed, contact the planning division before paying for replacement to confirm permit status.

Applications & Forms

The City issues sign permits and may require building permits for sign structures or electrical permits for illuminated/electronic signs. The municipal pages list application forms and submittal checklists; where a specific form number or fee is not published on the city page, it is not specified on the cited page.

Common violations

  • Unpermitted permanent signs installed without a sign permit.
  • Signs exceeding area or height limits for the zoning district.
  • Signs placed in the public right-of-way or obstructing pedestrian/driver sight lines.
  • Illuminated or electronic signs installed without electrical or conditional-use approvals.

How-To

  1. Confirm zoning for your property and check the city sign standards to determine maximum area and height.
  2. Prepare scaled drawings showing sign dimensions, mounting details, setback and elevations; include electrical plans if illuminated.
  3. Submit the sign permit application with required fees to the Planning Division or Building & Safety as directed by the city.
  4. Schedule inspections after installation and retain approvals to avoid abatement or fines.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to replace an existing sign?
Yes for most permanent replacements; temporary sign swaps or face changes may have different rules—confirm with planning or building staff.
Where are sign height and area limits published?
The limits are in the San Bernardino municipal code and zoning sign tables; consult the city code and planning resources linked below.
What if my property needs a larger sign than allowed?
You can apply for a variance or conditional use permit where available; procedures and fees are set by the city and described on planning pages.

Key Takeaways

  • Always verify zoning and sign-table limits before ordering signs.
  • Many signs need both a sign permit and a building/electrical permit if structural or illuminated.
  • Noncompliance can lead to removal orders and administrative actions; keep approvals on file.

Help and Support / Resources

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