Spokane Sidewalk A-Frame & Sandwich Board Rules
Businesses in Spokane, Washington commonly use A-frame and sandwich board signs on sidewalks to attract customers, but placement and design are subject to city rules to protect pedestrian access, safety and ADA compliance. This guide summarizes the municipal rules, responsible departments, permit paths and enforcement practices so business owners can place portable signs without risking fines or removal. For the controlling municipal code and local sign guidance consult the official Spokane municipal code and permit pages listed below.Spokane Municipal Code[1]
Where A-frames are allowed
General principles for sidewalk A-frames in Spokane emphasize clear pedestrian passage, non-obstruction of intersections and maintaining sightlines for traffic. Typical rules address minimum clear width, prohibited locations (bus stops, driveways, curb ramps), and seasonal or event exceptions. Always confirm the exact block-by-block rules with the permitting office before placement.
Design, size and safety considerations
While specific size limits and weight/stability requirements may be detailed in permit guidance, businesses should use stable, non-toppling frames, avoid protruding edges, and ensure signs do not create tripping hazards. Reflective or illuminated attachments may be restricted by sign or electrical codes.
Permits, approvals and exemptions
Temporary use or right-of-way permits are commonly required to place signs on public sidewalks. Application processes, fees and documentation are handled by the city’s permit center or public works permitting unit; review the Right-of-Way permit information for current submission details and any required insurance or indemnification.Right-of-Way Permits[2]
Applications & Forms
- Permit name: Right-of-Way or Temporary Use Permit (check city permit center for exact title).
- Fees: not specified on the cited page.
- Submission: online application via the city permit portal or in-person at the permit center; see the city permit page for current steps.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement is typically carried out by the city code enforcement division, public works inspectors or parking enforcement when signs obstruct sidewalks or violate permit terms. The municipal code and enforcement pages set out possible actions, but monetary fines and escalation specifics are not all consolidated on a single page; where exact fine amounts or schedules are not published on the cited official pages this guide notes that fact and points to the enforcing office for current penalties.Sign and Permit Guidance[3]
- Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation: first/repeat/continuing offence ranges not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: removal of sign, written abatement orders, and referral to court or administrative hearing (where applicable).
- Enforcer: City of Spokane Code Enforcement / Public Works inspectors; complaints and inspection requests handled via the city permit or complaint portal.
- Appeals: appeal or review routes and time limits are handled per municipal code procedures; specific appeal deadlines not specified on the cited page.
- Defences/discretion: permits, authorized variances, or demonstrated emergency/temporary need may be considered; municipal officers retain discretion under the code.
Common violations
- Blocking required pedestrian clear width (common basis for removal).
- Placement on curb ramps or near intersections obstructing sightlines.
- Failure to obtain required Right-of-Way or temporary use permit.
Action steps for businesses
- Confirm whether your desired location is public right-of-way and check permit requirements before placing a sign.
- Apply for the Right-of-Way or temporary use permit if required; provide site plan/photos with application.
- If cited, comply or file an appeal within the stated deadline on the notice; keep records of submissions.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit to put an A-frame on the sidewalk?
- Often yes for signs on public right-of-way; check the city Right-of-Way permit guidance and the municipal code for exemptions.
- How much pedestrian clearance is required?
- The exact minimum clearance is defined in permit guidance or the municipal code; not specified on the cited page—confirm with the permit office before placement.
- Who enforces sidewalk sign rules and how do I report a problem?
- City of Spokane Code Enforcement and Public Works enforce sidewalk sign rules; complaints and inspection requests go through the city permit or complaint portal linked in resources below.
How-To
- Determine if the desired sign location is public right-of-way or private property.
- Review the Spokane Municipal Code and Right-of-Way permit page for specific rules and required clearance.
- Prepare and submit the Right-of-Way or temporary use permit application with site photos and proposed sign dimensions.
- Wait for permit approval and adhere to any conditions (hours, anchoring, signage limits).
- Maintain records of the permit and any correspondence; if cited, follow notice instructions and preserve documentation for appeals.
Key Takeaways
- Always confirm permit requirements before placing signs on Spokane sidewalks.
- Maintain clear pedestrian passage and avoid curb ramps and intersections.
- Keep permit documents and respond promptly to any enforcement notices.
