Spokane Sign Ordinances - Where to File Complaints

Signs and Advertising Washington 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 10, 2026 Flag of Washington

Spokane, Washington residents and property managers who spot illegal or nuisance signs can report violations to city enforcement and permitting offices. This guide explains where to file complaints, what enforcement powers exist under Spokane sign ordinances, practical action steps to report signs, and how to follow up on appeals and permits. Use the official municipal code and the City of Spokane code enforcement contact to confirm the rule that applies to your location and to submit evidence when required.

Report signs with clear photos, exact locations, and dates to speed enforcement.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of sign rules in Spokane is carried out by city code enforcement and relevant permitting divisions. Specific fine amounts and escalation practices are set in the municipal ordinances and enforcement policies; if a precise amount or schedule is required it must be verified on the official ordinance or enforcement page cited below.

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; consult the municipal code for exact figures. Municipal code - Signs[1]
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing violations are referenced in ordinance enforcement sections; specific ranges or per-day penalties are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, abatement, seizure of signs on public property, stop-work or permit suspension, and court actions are possible under city authority.
  • Enforcer and complaint path: City of Spokane Code Enforcement accepts reports and coordinates inspections. File complaints online or by phone via the city contact. City code enforcement contact[2]
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes are through administrative review or municipal court as set by ordinance; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page and should be confirmed with the enforcing office.
If a sign is in the public right-of-way, report it immediately to city operations for removal.

Applications & Forms

Sign permits and related applications are managed by the City of Spokane planning or building permit office. The exact application name or form number for sign permits is not specified on the cited page; applicants should request the sign permit application from Planning/Development Services or the building permit portal.

Common Violations

  • Illegal signs in public right-of-way or attached to utility poles.
  • Signs without a required city sign permit.
  • Signs exceeding permitted size, height, or illumination rules.
Keeping a dated photo record is the best evidence for a complaint.

How to

  1. Document the sign: take clear photos, note date, time, and exact address or intersection.
  2. Check the municipal code to confirm the likely violation; use the municipal code link for reference.[1]
  3. Submit a complaint to City of Spokane Code Enforcement online or by phone and attach photos; include location and any permit information if known.[2]
  4. Follow up: note your complaint number, attend any required hearings, and file an appeal within the ordinance timeline if enforcement is denied (confirm exact deadlines with the enforcing office).

FAQ

Who enforces sign ordinances in Spokane?
The City of Spokane code enforcement and planning/building permit divisions enforce sign ordinances and process complaints.
How do I report an illegal sign?
Take photos, record the location, and submit the information to City of Spokane Code Enforcement online or by phone.
Are there fees to file a complaint?
Filing a complaint is generally free; any permit or re-inspection fees depend on the specific permitting process and are listed on official permit pages.

Key Takeaways

  • Use clear photos and exact locations when filing complaints.
  • Contact City of Spokane Code Enforcement for inspection and follow-up.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Spokane - Municipal Code (Signs)
  2. [2] City of Spokane - Code Enforcement

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