Westminster Sign Ordinance - For Sale & Campaign Signs

Signs and Advertising Colorado 3 Minutes Read ยท published March 01, 2026 Flag of Colorado

Westminster, Colorado regulates temporary advertising such as "for sale" and political campaign signs under its municipal code and planning regulations; review the local code for permit requirements, placement limits, and enforcement contacts.[1] This guide explains where signs are typically allowed, how long they may remain, who enforces the rules, and the practical steps residents and candidates should take to avoid violations.

Overview

Many residential and commercial signs are governed by the city sign regulations and zoning district standards. Private-property "for sale" signs and temporary campaign signs are often treated differently from permanent commercial signage. Always confirm size, location, and illumination rules with the Planning Division before installation.

Always check the code or contact the Planning Division before installing any sign.

What Counts as a For Sale or Campaign Sign

  • Signs placed to advertise real estate listings, candidate names, ballot issues, or campaign events.
  • Temporary political signs that are not permanently affixed to structures.
  • Signs placed on private property with owner permission versus signs in public right-of-way.

Placement, Size, and Timing Guidance

Placement rules typically distinguish private property from public right-of-way, prohibit obstruction of sight lines at intersections, and may set maximum dimensions or heights. Specific numeric limits, required setbacks, or duration allowances are set in the municipal code or zoning standards and should be verified for your property and zoning district.

Signs in the public right-of-way are commonly prohibited and may be removed without notice.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by City of Westminster code enforcement and community development staff; complaints generally route through the Code Enforcement or Planning Division.[3]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing-offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, abatement, seizure of signs, and civil or court actions are possible; specific remedies are identified in the municipal code or enforcement regulations.[1]
  • Enforcer and inspection: Code Enforcement and Planning Division investigate complaints and issue orders; use the official complaint/contact portal to report violations.[3]
  • Appeals and review: processes and time limits for appeals are set by the municipal code or administrative rules; where exact time limits are required, they are not specified on the cited page.
If a fine or appeal deadline is critical, request the specific code section or a written notice from the City.

Applications & Forms

  • Sign permit application: check the Planning Division permit page for the required application and submittal steps; specific form names or numbers are not specified on the cited page.[2]
  • Fees: permit fees for temporary signs or variances are set by fee schedules; exact fee amounts are not specified on the cited page.[2]
  • Submission method and deadlines: applications are typically submitted to the Planning Division or online portal; verify current submittal instructions on the official site.[2]

Action steps:

  • Confirm zoning and sign rules with Planning before ordering or installing signs.
  • Report unpermitted signs or obstructions through the official Code Enforcement contact page.[3]
  • If cited, request the exact code provision and appeal instructions in writing.

Common Violations

  • Placement in public right-of-way or on utility poles.
  • Exceeding allowed size or height for temporary signs.
  • Leaving campaign or for-sale signs in place beyond permitted timeframes.
  • Obstructing sight lines at intersections.

FAQ

Can I place a "For Sale" sign in my front yard?
Typically yes on private property with owner permission, but size and setback rules may apply; check the city sign regulations or contact Planning for your zoning district.[2]
Are campaign signs allowed in Westminster?
Temporary political signs are commonly permitted on private property but may be restricted in public rights-of-way or by duration; confirm details with the Planning Division.[2]
What happens if my sign is removed?
Removed signs may be subject to abatement procedures, fines, or seizure; request the specific enforcement notice and appeal instructions from Code Enforcement.[3]

How-To

  1. Identify your property zoning and review the Westminster municipal sign regulations.[1]
  2. Check whether a sign permit or temporary sign approval is required with the Planning Division and obtain any necessary application.[2]
  3. Install the sign compliant with size, setback, and visibility rules; avoid public right-of-way and sight-line obstruction.
  4. If cited, follow the enforcement notice instructions, pay fines if specified, or file an appeal within the stated time limit.

Key Takeaways

  • Verify rules before placing signs to avoid removal or penalties.
  • Contact Planning or Code Enforcement for permits, complaints, or appeal instructions.
  • Many numeric limits and fees must be confirmed in the municipal code or fee schedule.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Westminster Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of Westminster - Planning Division and Sign Permit Information
  3. [3] City of Westminster - Code Enforcement

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