Report Illegal or Unsafe Signs - Baltimore City Code

Signs and Advertising Maryland 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of Maryland

In Baltimore, Maryland, public safety and visual order include rules about where and how signs and advertising may be placed. This guide explains who enforces sign rules, how to report illegal or unsafe signs, what penalties may apply, and the practical steps property owners and neighbors can take to resolve problems under Baltimore city law.

Report dangerous signs promptly to reduce risk to pedestrians and drivers.

How to identify illegal or unsafe signs

Signs can be illegal for several reasons: placed without a permit, blocking sidewalks or sightlines, attached to utility poles, creating electrical hazards, or violating zoning size and placement limits. Unsafe signs include those at risk of falling, with exposed wiring, or obstructing traffic control devices.

Penalties & Enforcement

City enforcement typically falls to code enforcement units within Baltimore city agencies tasked with building, zoning, and public safety. Specific fine amounts and escalation steps are not specified on the cited municipal reporting page; see the Code and enforcement contacts in Help and Support / Resources below for controlling texts and sections. Complaint intake and inspection are initiated through the city 311 reporting system, which accepts photos and location details and forwards cases to the appropriate department for investigation.[1]

Keep photographs and exact locations to speed inspection and enforcement.
  • Non-permitted signs: often removed and subject to fines or storage fees if taken down by the city.
  • Public-safety hazards: immediate removal or securing may be ordered if a sign risks falling or endangering traffic.
  • Repeat or continuing violations: may incur daily fines or escalating enforcement until compliance is achieved.
  • Court actions: the city may seek civil orders or abatement through the courts for non-compliance.

Applications & Forms

Sign permits, variances, and related applications are processed through Baltimore’s permits and zoning offices. If a specific permit form or fee schedule is needed, consult the official permit pages listed under Help and Support / Resources; if no single form is published for a specific sign type, the permitting office will advise on the required application or variance.

Reporting process and action steps

To report an illegal or unsafe sign, take these actions: document the sign with photos, note the exact address or nearest intersection, note any safety concerns (wiring, lean, obstruction), and submit via the city 311 reporting tool or the permitting office for review. Inspections are scheduled based on hazard priority; follow-up actions may include orders to remove, repair, or obtain required permits.

Documenting the sign clearly (date, time, location, photos) makes enforcement faster.
  • Document: take clear photos showing the sign and surrounding area.
  • Report: submit details through the city 311 portal or phone intake to create an official complaint. Baltimore 311[1]
  • Follow up: keep the complaint number and check status; provide additional evidence if requested.
  • Compliance: if ordered to remove or permit a sign, obtain required permits or correct the violation within the time specified in the city notice.

FAQ

Who enforces sign rules in Baltimore?
Code enforcement units in relevant city departments (permits, zoning, public works, or housing/code enforcement) handle sign complaints and inspections.
How long does enforcement take?
Inspection timing depends on hazard severity and workload; emergency hazards are prioritized, while non-urgent cases follow standard scheduling.
Can I remove a sign on public property myself?
Do not remove signs on public property; report them so the city can document, remove, and record the action. Removing signs may expose you to liability if done improperly.

How-To

  1. Take clear photos of the sign from multiple angles and note the exact location.
  2. Call or submit an online report through Baltimore 311 and attach your photos and location details. Baltimore 311[1]
  3. Save the complaint number and respond to city requests for more information or access to the property.
  4. If ordered to act (remove, permit, or repair), apply for the necessary permit or schedule removal and keep records of compliance.

Key Takeaways

  • Report unsafe signs immediately to protect public safety.
  • Provide photos, exact location, and contact details to speed inspections.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Baltimore 311 - Report a Problem

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