Spokane Sign Size, Height & Illumination Rules

Land Use and Zoning Washington 4 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of Washington

Spokane, Washington businesses must follow municipal sign rules that control size, height, placement and illumination to protect safety, zoning character and sightlines. This guide summarizes where to find the rules, how measurements are taken, when a permit is required, common violations, enforcement paths and practical steps to apply, appeal or report noncompliant signs.

Sign rules overview

The City of Spokane regulates permanent and temporary signs by zoning district, sign type, and whether the sign is freestanding, wall-mounted, projecting or canopy-mounted. Requirements typically cover maximum area, maximum height above grade, setbacks from property lines, and illumination standards for light intensity and light shielding.

  • Types covered include wall signs, monument signs, pylon signs, projecting signs and temporary banners.
  • Different zones (commercial, industrial, mixed-use, downtown) have different limits and allowances.
  • Illuminated signs must meet electrical and shielding requirements to prevent glare and light trespass.
Confirm which sign type your business proposes before preparing an application.

Where rules are published

Numeric standards, definitions and permit procedures are set out in the municipal code and by Development Services. For the code text and definitions see the City of Spokane municipal code.[1]

Measurements: size and height

Sign area is usually measured as the area of the smallest rectangle enclosing all sign elements; height is measured from existing grade to the top of the sign structure. Exact measurement rules and exceptions (e.g., awnings, blade signs) are in the municipal code and related development standards.[1]

  • How area is calculated: include background and framing unless specifically excluded by code definitions.
  • Maximum heights differ by sign type and zoning district; freestanding signs commonly have the strictest height limits.
  • Visibility triangles at intersections and sightline clearances can reduce allowable placement or height.
Measurement rules determine whether your sign needs a variance or reduced size.

Illumination and electrical

Illumination rules cover whether signs may be externally lit, internally lit, or use LEDs, and require shielding to avoid glare onto streets or neighboring properties. Electrical installations must comply with the Washington State Electrical Code and local building permit requirements.

  • Requirements often include limits on luminance, backlighting restrictions, and hours of operation for electronic displays.
  • Animated or changing-message signs may be restricted or prohibited in certain zones.
  • Electrical permits and inspections are typically required before energizing an illuminated sign.
Electronic message content is regulated separately from static sign sizing in some zones.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by City departments; numeric fines, escalation and specific penalties for sign violations must be confirmed in the municipal code and enforcement policies.[1] To report an unsafe or illegal sign, contact City of Spokane Code Enforcement.[2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; consult the municipal code and enforcement notices for current schedules.[1]
  • Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page; enforcement procedures reference progressive remedies.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove or modify signs, stop-work orders, permit suspensions, seizure or court action may be used; specific measures depend on the violation and authority cited in the code.[1]
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: Code Enforcement and Development Services handle inspections and complaints; use the city complaint/contact page to file reports.[2]
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are set by ordinance or administrative rules—check the municipal code for filing deadlines and hearing procedures (time limits: not specified on the cited page).[1]
  • Defences and discretion: permitted variances, conditional use approvals or issued permits are common defenses; the code allows administrative discretion for certain exceptions.
If enforcement action begins, note the appeal deadlines listed in the enforcement notice immediately.

Applications & Forms

Sign permits, electrical permits for illuminated signs, and any variance or design review applications are required where specified. Specific form names, fees and submittal methods are published by Development Services or the Permit Center; when a form or fee is not listed on the code page it is "not specified on the cited page" and must be confirmed with the Permit Center or Development Services.[1]

  • Typical required items: completed sign permit application, scaled drawings, site plan, electrical permit application (for illuminated signs), and fee payment.
  • Deadlines: permit processing times and any appeal filing deadlines are set by administrative rules or the permit center schedule.

How-To

  1. Check zone-specific sign allowances and definitions in the municipal code.
  2. Measure proposed sign area and height per code measurement rules and create a scaled drawing.
  3. Prepare permit materials: application, site plan, structural details, and electrical paperwork if illuminated.
  4. Submit applications to the City Permit Center or Development Services and pay required fees.
  5. Schedule inspections, obtain final approval, then install the sign per approved plans.

FAQ

Do I need a permit for a business sign?
Most permanent and many temporary signs require a sign permit; check the municipal code and contact Development Services to confirm.
How is sign area calculated?
Area is usually the smallest rectangle enclosing the sign elements; see code definitions for specific inclusions or exclusions.
What if my sign would exceed height or size limits?
You may need a variance or design review; apply through Development Services and follow the published appeal or hearing process.

Key Takeaways

  • Determine sign type and zone first, then measure area and height per code rules.
  • Most illuminated signs need electrical permits and building inspections.
  • Contact Development Services or Code Enforcement early to confirm requirements and avoid enforcement actions.

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