Lakewood Sidewalk A-Frame & Sandwich Board Rules
Lakewood, Colorado regulates sidewalk signs such as A-frame and sandwich boards through municipal sign rules and permit processes administered by city development and code enforcement staff. This guide summarizes where to look for official requirements, how vendors typically comply, and practical steps to request permits or report violations in Lakewood.
Regulated features and general rules
Sidewalk A-frame and sandwich board signs are usually treated as temporary or portable signs under Lakewood sign regulations. Typical control points include permitted locations, maximum sign dimensions, placement clearance from sidewalks and curb ramps, required setbacks from travel lanes, and restrictions during snow removal or special events. Vendors should confirm exact dimensional and placement limits with Development Services before placing signs.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement of sidewalk sign rules in Lakewood is handled by the City of Lakewood through the department responsible for building and code enforcement. Specific monetary fines, escalation schedules, and administrative penalties are set out in the municipal code and enforcement policies.
- Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, compliance notices, and potential court actions are referenced; specific procedures are not specified on the cited page.
- Enforcer and inspection: City of Lakewood Code Enforcement or Development Services conducts inspections and responds to complaints.
- Appeals and review: the municipal code or administrative rules set appeal routes and time limits; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.
- Defences and discretion: permits, variances, or documented reasonable excuse may be considered; procedural details are not specified on the cited page.
Applications & Forms
Sign permits and temporary sign applications are issued by Lakewood Development Services when required; name, form numbers, fees, and submission methods are published by the city. If no specific form is required for a particular temporary sign type, the city will note that on the sign permit page.
Common violations
- Blocking pedestrian clearances or ADA routes.
- Signs placed in travel lanes, medians, or public planting strips.
- Using unpermitted permanent-style signage when only temporary signs are allowed.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit for an A-frame or sandwich board in Lakewood?
- Permit requirements vary by location and sign type; consult Development Services to confirm whether a temporary sign permit is required.
- Where can I legally place a sidewalk sign?
- Placement rules depend on sidewalk width and clearances for pedestrians and ADA access; check with the city for the exact clearance standard.
- What happens if my sign is removed?
- The city may issue a compliance notice and the sign could be impounded; retrieval procedures and fines are described by city enforcement policies.
How-To
- Contact Lakewood Development Services to confirm whether your sign needs a permit and to get the current dimensional and placement rules.
- If a permit is required, complete the official sign permit application and submit required documentation and fee as instructed by the city.
- Place the sign only in the approved location with the approved dimensions and maintain clear pedestrian/ADA access.
- If you receive a notice, follow the instructions, correct the issue promptly, and file an appeal if you believe the citation was in error.
Key Takeaways
- Check with Development Services before placing any A-frame or sandwich board.
- Maintain required sidewalk clearances and avoid blocking ADA routes.
- If cited, act quickly to correct the issue and learn appeal deadlines.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Lakewood Municipal Code - Codes and Chapters
- City of Lakewood Development Services - Sign Permits
- City of Lakewood Code Enforcement contact