Longview Campaign and For-Sale Sign Rules

Signs and Advertising Texas 4 Minutes Read · published March 08, 2026 Flag of Texas

Longview, Texas residents and candidates must follow local sign rules governing campaign signs and "for sale" signs. This guide summarizes where and when signs may be placed, the permit requirements to check with the city, how enforcement works, and clear steps to comply and avoid removal or penalties. When in doubt, consult the municipal code and Development Services before installing signs to ensure time limits, setbacks, and prohibited locations are respected.

Where and When You May Place Signs

Longview regulates signs by location, size, and duration. Typical categories include temporary campaign signs, residential for-sale signs, and commercial signage. Common restrictions address public right-of-way placement, visibility at intersections, and attachment to utility poles or street signs.

  • Temporary campaign signs often have time limits tied to election periods; check the municipal code for exact timing.[1]
  • Placement in the public right-of-way or on city property is commonly prohibited without approval.
  • Residential "for sale" signs are usually allowed on private property but may be limited in size or number.
  • Setbacks from streets, sidewalks, and corners help maintain sightlines and pedestrian access.
Always confirm deadlines and setbacks with Development Services before posting signs.

Sign Permits and Approvals

Certain types of signs may require a permit from the city. If a permit is required, the Development Services or Planning department issues application instructions and fee schedules. For sign permits and guidance, contact Development Services and review the sign-permit section on the city site.[2]

Applications & Forms

Check Development Services for an official sign permit application. If the city posts a form, it will list the purpose, required attachments (site plan, dimensions), submission method, and applicable fees. If no form is published on the official site, none is specified on the cited page.[2]

If a sign is temporary for an election, keep records showing placement and removal dates.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of sign rules is handled by municipal code enforcement or Development Services. The municipal code is the controlling instrument for sign rules and enforcement procedures.[1]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions (removal orders, abatement, civil court action): not specified on the cited page.
  • Enforcer: City Code Enforcement / Development Services; inspections and complaints accepted through the official Code Enforcement contact page.[3]
  • Appeals/review routes and time limits: not specified on the cited page.

Common violations and typical outcomes (where specifics are not listed on the cited pages):

  • Signs in the public right-of-way or obstructing sight lines — often subject to immediate removal.
  • Unauthorized sign sizes or numbers — may trigger notice and required corrective action.
  • Failure to obtain a required permit — may lead to citation or abatement.

Applications & Forms

If a specific sign permit application or fee schedule is published, it will be available from Development Services; if it is not published, the city has not specified a form on the cited page.[2]

How to Comply

  • Confirm election and campaign sign time windows with Development Services.
  • Obtain any required sign permit before installation.
  • Place signs on private property only and keep them away from sidewalks, curbs, and visibility triangles.
  • If you receive a notice, follow instructions promptly and contact Code Enforcement to appeal or ask for clarification.
Remove temporary signs promptly after the event or deadline to avoid enforcement action.

FAQ

Do campaign signs need a permit in Longview?
It depends on size and location; check the municipal code and Development Services for permit requirements and exceptions.[1]
How long can a for-sale sign stay on a property?
For-sale sign duration is governed by local sign rules and property type; the municipal code should be consulted for specifics.[1]
How do I report an illegal sign or request enforcement?
Report violations to City Code Enforcement through the official complaint/contact page.[3]

How-To

  1. Check the City of Longview municipal code online to read the sign sections and confirm any numeric limits or prohibitions.[1]
  2. Contact Development Services to ask whether your sign needs a permit and to get the official application if required.[2]
  3. If a permit is required, complete the application, attach a site sketch and sign dimensions, pay the fee, and submit as directed by Development Services.[2]
  4. Place signs according to setback and right-of-way rules, remove them when time-limited events end, and keep receipts or permit copies for inspection.
  5. If you see unlawful signs or received an enforcement notice, contact Code Enforcement to resolve or appeal.[3]

Key Takeaways

  • Always check municipal code and Development Services before posting campaign or for-sale signs.
  • Temporary signs often have time windows tied to events or elections—remove signs promptly after the deadline.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Longview Code of Ordinances - Signs section
  2. [2] City of Longview Development Services - Permits and sign guidance
  3. [3] City of Longview Code Enforcement contact and complaint page

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