Colorado Springs Sign Size, Height & Materials

Signs and Advertising Colorado 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Colorado

In Colorado Springs, Colorado, sign size, height, and allowable materials are governed by the city's land use and sign rules and by related permit requirements. Property owners, businesses, and sign contractors must follow local zoning districts, sign standards, and permit procedures before installing or altering signs to avoid enforcement actions.

Where the rules live

Sign regulations are set out in the city code and the Land Development Code and are enforced by Planning and Code Enforcement; read the code and guidance carefully for your zoning district.

Ask the planning division about district-specific limits before fabricating signage.

Common provisions on size, height, and materials

The municipal framework typically addresses allowable sign types, maximum sign area, maximum heights by sign type and zoning district, permitted materials and finishes, and illumination rules. Exact limits vary by zone and sign category (wall, ground, projecting, temporary, etc.).

  • Wall signs: area usually limited relative to facade area and placement rules apply.
  • Ground/monument signs: height and base setback tied to zoning and sight-line safety.
  • Temporary signs: time-limited and often restricted in size and location.
  • Materials: structural safety and weather resistance required; certain historic districts may have material or finish constraints.

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal code provides the enforcement authority but specific fine amounts, escalation for repeat or continuing offences, and detailed sanctions are not specified on the cited page.[1]

  • Enforcer: City Planning Division and Code Enforcement staff investigate sign complaints and order compliance.
  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; check the municipal code or contact Code Enforcement for current penalty tables.[1]
  • Escalation: information on first, repeat, or continuing offences is not specified on the cited page and may be handled under the civil enforcement or municipal court process.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: typical remedies include stop-work orders, removal or alteration orders, and court referral; specifics are not listed on the cited page.
If you receive a notice, follow the deadline exactly and document compliance steps.

Applications & Forms

Sign permits and application forms are available through the city permit portal; fees, submittal checklists, and upload methods are provided on the permit page.[2]

  • Permit name: Sign Permit (check the permit portal for the exact form and submittal checklist).[2]
  • Fees: fee schedule is listed on the permit page or in the permit portal; if not shown, contact Planning Permits.[2]
  • Deadlines: typical review times and required lead time vary by application complexity and are listed with the permit details.[2]
Submit a complete permit application with drawings and mounting details to avoid resubmittals.

Action steps

  • Confirm your property's zoning and permitted sign types with Planning.
  • Obtain required structural details from your installer and include them in the permit packet.
  • Apply for a sign permit via the city permit portal and pay the fee listed on the permit page.[2]
  • If you receive a compliance notice, contact Code Enforcement and document corrected work.

FAQ

Do I always need a permit to install a new sign?
Most permanent and many temporary signs require a permit; check the permit portal or Planning for exemptions.
How tall can a freestanding sign be?
Maximum heights depend on sign type and zoning and are set in the sign regulations for each district.
What materials are prohibited?
Materials must meet structural and safety standards; prohibited or restricted materials may be listed for historic districts or overlay areas.

How-To

  1. Verify zoning and allowed sign types for your parcel with Planning.
  2. Prepare drawings showing dimensions, mounting details, materials, and any structural calculations.
  3. Complete the Sign Permit application and upload required documents in the permit portal.[2]
  4. Pay fees and respond to any plan-review comments from staff.
  5. Obtain the approved permit, schedule inspections if required, and retain documentation.

Key Takeaways

  • Sign rules vary by zoning district; confirm before buying or building.
  • Permits and proper documentation reduce the risk of enforcement action.
  • Contact Planning or Code Enforcement early if you have questions or receive a notice.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Colorado Springs Municipal Code - Sign and zoning provisions
  2. [2] Colorado Springs Permits Portal - Sign permits and applications

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