Des Moines Sidewalk A-Frame & Sandwich Board Rules

Signs and Advertising Iowa 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of Iowa

Des Moines, Iowa businesses placing sidewalk sandwich boards or A-frame signs must follow municipal sign rules to avoid fines and removal. This guide summarizes how Des Moines regulates temporary pedestrian-facing signs, which department enforces the rules, how to apply for permits or variances, and practical compliance steps for storefronts and cafes. It is aimed at small business owners, property managers, and community groups operating within the Des Moines city limits.

What counts as an A-frame / sandwich board

Sidewalk A-frames and sandwich boards are freestanding, portable signs placed on sidewalks or private sidewalks for commercial messages. The city treats these as temporary signs subject to size, placement, and safety rules under the municipal sign regulations [1].

Where you may place signs

  • On private property in front of your business if you have the property owner’s permission.
  • On the public sidewalk only where a minimum clear pedestrian path is maintained (measurements set by code or permit conditions).
  • Not within vehicle travel lanes, bike lanes, or blocking curb ramps and accessible routes.
Check pedestrian clearway requirements before placing any sign.

Design, size and safety requirements

  • Maximum dimensions and wind-resistance requirements may apply; if not published, size limits are not specified on the cited page [1].
  • Signs must be stable and weighted or anchored so they cannot tip into pedestrian traffic.
  • Placement must maintain sightlines for vehicles and not obscure traffic control devices.

Permits, variances and approvals

Some temporary signs require permits or must meet conditions in a sign permit application; other temporary signs may be allowed without a permit depending on zoning and downtown overlay rules. For permit applications and official sign permit forms contact the Planning/Permits office [2].

Penalties & Enforcement

The city enforces sign rules through code enforcement and building/inspections staff. Exact fines and escalations for unauthorized or unsafe A-frame signs are not fully itemized on the cited pages; specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited page [1]. Enforcement actions can include orders to remove or correct signs, abatement by the city, administrative citations, and referral to municipal court.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; check the municipal code or permit terms for exact amounts [1].
  • Escalation: initial warnings, followed by fines or abatement for repeat or continuing offences; exact ranges not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, confiscation of signs, stop-use orders, and court proceedings.
  • Enforcer and complaints: Code Enforcement / Building Inspections handle sign complaints and permit compliance; file complaints or request inspections via the city’s inspections and permits contact page [3].
  • Appeals: appeal routes or timelines may be set by the municipal code or permit decision; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.
If a sign is ordered removed, follow the removal instructions promptly to avoid further penalties.

Applications & Forms

  • The city publishes sign permit applications and instructions via the Planning or Permits office; check the official sign permit page for the correct form and fee schedule [2].
  • Fees: amount varies by permit type; if not listed on the permit page, fee details are not specified on the cited page [2].
  • Submission: submit applications to the Planning/Permits office as directed on the official permit page or in person at the designated city office [2].

How-To

  1. Check whether your proposed sandwich board requires a permit by reviewing the municipal sign regulations and the city sign permit page.
  2. If a permit is needed, complete the sign permit form and attach site photos and measurements per instructions.
  3. Pay any permit fee, submit the application, and wait for written approval before placing the sign.
  4. Place the sign only in approved locations, maintain the clear pedestrian path, and secure the sign against tipping or wind.
  5. If cited, follow the city's removal or correction order promptly and use the appeal process if you dispute the decision.

FAQ

Do I need a permit for a sidewalk sandwich board?
Possibly; some temporary signs require permits depending on zoning, downtown overlays, and size—check the city sign permit page for your location and sign type [2].
What happens if my sign blocks the sidewalk?
The city may order removal or issue a citation; immediate correction or removal is typically required to maintain accessible routes and sightlines.
Who enforces sign rules?
Code Enforcement and Building Inspections handle sign compliance and complaints; contact them via the city inspections and permits page [3].

Key Takeaways

  • Always check municipal sign rules before placing an A-frame.
  • Obtain required permits and follow placement and safety rules.
  • Contact Code Enforcement or Permits for clarifications or inspections.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Des Moines Code of Ordinances - Signs and related provisions
  2. [2] City of Des Moines Planning / Permits - sign permit information
  3. [3] City of Des Moines Building Inspections / Code Enforcement contact and complaint pages

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