Spokane Sign Size, Height & Material Code

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

Spokane, Washington regulates sign size, height, placement and materials through its municipal sign rules and permit processes. This guide explains where rules are published, how standards typically apply across commercial and residential zones, the permitting steps to follow, and what to expect from enforcement. It summarizes common compliance issues and practical action steps for property owners, tenants, contractors and sign companies in Spokane.

Always confirm requirements with Spokane Planning & Development Services before fabricating or installing a sign.

Overview of Spokane sign standards

Sign standards in Spokane address maximum sign area, height limits, materials allowed, illumination, setback and placement relative to rights-of-way and sight triangles. Standards vary by zoning district and sign type (wall, freestanding, projecting, temporary, awning). Review local sign definitions and zoning-specific tables to determine the applicable limits for your site.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of sign regulations is administered by the City of Spokane division responsible for land use and code compliance, typically Planning & Development Services and code compliance officers. Civil penalties, abatement orders and permit requirements are the usual enforcement tools; criminal penalties may apply only where the municipal code specifies them. Exact fine amounts and escalation for first, repeat or continuing offences are not specified on the official pages consulted; see the official code or contact the enforcing department for current figures (current as of February 2026).

  • Enforcer: Planning & Development Services and Code Compliance (complaint intake by the City).
  • Fines: not specified on the official pages consulted; contact the City for current amounts.
  • Escalation: first/repeat/continuing offence structure not specified on the official pages consulted.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: abatement orders, removal notices, stop-work orders, and civil court actions are used where allowed by code.
  • How to report: submit a code compliance complaint to the City’s code compliance or permit intake—expect an inspection and written notice if a violation is found.
  • Appeals: appeal and review routes exist under Spokane’s land use and permit procedures; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the official pages consulted.
Noncompliant signs are often removed or ordered to be altered rather than subject to immediate criminal penalties.

Applications & Forms

The City issues sign permits through its permit intake and Planning & Development Services; the standard application is a sign permit application submitted with drawings, materials specifications and site plans. Fee amounts and specific form names or numbers were not listed on the official pages reviewed and are therefore not specified here (current as of February 2026). Applicants should contact the City permit center for required documents, fees and submission method.

Common violations and typical outcomes

  • Exceeding maximum sign area - often triggers a notice to remove or reduce sign size.
  • Excessive height or obstruction of sight lines - may prompt immediate corrective orders.
  • Unpermitted signs or installations - subject to permit requirement and possible fines.
  • Prohibited materials or unsafe mounting - may result in stop-work and removal orders.
If you receive a notice, act quickly to apply for a permit or file an appeal within the allowed time frame.

How to achieve compliance

  • Confirm zoning designation and applicable sign table for your parcel.
  • Prepare scaled drawings showing sign dimensions, materials, illumination and mounting details.
  • Submit a sign permit application with the City permit center and pay any required fees.
  • Install per approved permit and retain copies of permit documents on site.

FAQ

Do all signs require a permit?
Most permanent and many temporary signs require a permit; some small residential and temporary signs may be exempt—confirm exemptions with Planning & Development Services.
What size is allowed for a freestanding sign?
Maximum area and height depend on zoning and sign type; specific numeric limits are provided in the municipal sign tables and vary by zone.
Can I use any material for a sign face?
Materials must meet safety, durability and illumination rules; prohibited materials or unsafe attachment methods will be rejected during permit review.

How-To

  1. Identify your parcel’s zoning and the sign type you plan to install.
  2. Draft drawings showing dimensions, height above grade, materials and mounting details.
  3. Complete the sign permit application and gather any structural calculations if required.
  4. Submit the application to the City permit center and pay the applicable fee.
  5. Schedule inspections as required and install only after permit approval.

Key Takeaways

  • Sign limits depend on zone and sign type—always check the local sign tables before designing.
  • Obtain a permit for most permanent signs to avoid removal or fines.
  • Contact Planning & Development Services or code compliance early if you receive a notice.

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