Reading Sign Ordinances - Campaign & For-Sale Signs

Signs and Advertising Pennsylvania 3 Minutes Read · published March 01, 2026 Flag of Pennsylvania

In Reading, Pennsylvania, rules for campaign and for-sale signs are set by the city code and administered by city departments. This guide explains where to find the official rules, what typical limits apply, how enforcement works, and the practical steps property owners and candidates should take to comply. For exact legal text consult the City Code or the Planning and Permitting pages linked below to confirm sizes, time limits and public-right-of-way restrictions.City Code - Signs[1] Planning & Zoning[2]

Temporary signs often have different limits than permanent signs.

Overview of sign rules

The City of Reading regulates signs to protect traffic safety, pedestrian access and property character. Regulations commonly address permitted locations (private property vs public right-of-way), maximum area, height, illumination, and required setbacks from sidewalks and intersections. Campaign and for-sale signs are usually treated as temporary signs, subject to time limits and size caps in the sign chapter.

Check setback and sight-line rules before placing a sign near intersections.

Typical restrictions and examples

  • Permitted locations: private property with owner consent; generally prohibited in the public right-of-way or on utility poles.
  • Size and height: municipalities set maximum face area and height for temporary signs; specifics are in the City Code.
  • Time limits: campaign and for-sale signs often have posting windows tied to election dates or listing periods.
  • Placement prohibitions: visibility obstructions at driveways, sidewalks, and intersections are frequently banned.
  • Removal obligations: signs on public land or abandoned signs may be removed by the city after notice.
If a sign blocks sight lines, the city may require immediate removal.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the city’s codes or building enforcement office. Specific fine amounts, daily penalties, or escalation steps for repeated or continuing violations are not specified on the cited page; confirm amounts in the City Code or with the enforcement office.City Code - Signs[1] Permits & Licenses / Code Enforcement[3]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first and repeat offence schedules are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary: city may issue removal orders, seize signs, or pursue court action; exact remedies are in the ordinance.
  • Enforcer: City of Reading Code/Building Enforcement or Planning Department; complaint and contact info available on city pages.
  • Appeals: appeal or review routes are not specified on the cited page; contact the enforcement office for procedural steps and time limits.
Document sign placement with photos before removing or altering a sign that you believe is lawful.

Applications & Forms

Permit or application requirements for temporary campaign or real-estate signs are not clearly published on a single page; applicants should consult the Planning Department or Building/Permits office for any required temporary sign permit.Planning & Zoning[2] Permits & Licenses / Code Enforcement[3] If no form is required, the city will advise on any notice or consent needed from property owners.

Action steps

  • Confirm the exact ordinance language in the City Code before creating or posting signs.
  • If required, submit a temporary sign permit or inquiry to Planning/Permits prior to installation.
  • Keep records and photos of sign placement and owner consent.
  • Report dangerous or illegal signs to Code Enforcement using the city contact page.

FAQ

Can I place campaign signs on public sidewalks or utility poles?
Generally no; signs on public property and utility poles are typically prohibited. Check the City Code and contact Code Enforcement for exceptions.
How long can a for-sale sign stay on a property?
For-sale signs are usually allowed while the property is actively listed, but exact time limits are set by ordinance or permit conditions; consult Planning.
What should I do if my sign is removed by the city?
Contact Code Enforcement promptly to learn removal reason, reclaim procedures if available, and appeal or review options.

How-To

  1. Read the sign chapter in the City Code to identify size, placement and timing restrictions.
  2. Contact the Planning or Permits office to confirm whether a temporary sign permit is required.
  3. Place signs with owner consent on private property, maintaining required setbacks and sight-line clearances.
  4. If cited, follow removal or correction orders and ask about appeal deadlines and procedures.

Key Takeaways

  • City Code controls sign size, placement and time limits; always verify the ordinance.
  • Contact Planning or Permits before installing if you are unsure about permit requirements.
  • Report hazardous or illegal signs to Code Enforcement; keep documentation of lawful placement.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Reading Code of Ordinances - Signs and related chapters
  2. [2] City of Reading Planning & Zoning department
  3. [3] City of Reading Permits, Licenses & Code Enforcement

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