Tri-Cities Sidewalk Sign Rules - City Bylaws

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

Tri-Cities, Washington merchants must follow local city bylaws and public-right-of-way rules when placing sidewalk sandwich boards (A-frames). This article summarizes typical placement, size, safety and permitting considerations across Tri-Cities municipalities and points you to the official municipal source for local code. Consult the enforcing office before placing signs to avoid fines or removal.[1]

Where sidewalk sandwich boards are allowed

Rules differ by city; common principles include keeping a clear pedestrian passage, avoiding sightline obstruction at intersections and bus stops, and not placing signs on private property without permission. Specific sidewalk clearance dimensions and allowed zones are set by each city’s sign or right-of-way regulations.

Keep at least a 4-foot clear path where the code requires unobstructed pedestrian access.

Design, safety and placement requirements

Most municipal rules focus on stability, non-permanence, visibility, and pedestrian clearance. Typical elements regulated or recommended include weight/stability to resist wind, non-reflective surfaces at night, and no attachment to street furniture or trees.

  • Maintain required pedestrian clearance and avoid blocking curb cuts and ramps.
  • Avoid placement near intersections, bus stops, or bike lanes if the city prohibits it.
  • Ensure signs are stable and removed during high winds or overnight if the code requires.
  • Follow any city dimension or material limits where specified.
If in doubt, check the local sign or public-works office before installing a board.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is typically handled by the city department responsible for code compliance, public works, or licensing; remedies can include fines, administrative orders to remove the sign, seizure or abatement, and court action for continued noncompliance. Exact fines and escalation steps vary by municipality and are stated in local code or administrative rules; where the municipal page does not list amounts, it is "not specified on the cited page." The primary municipal code or sign regulation should be consulted for precise penalties.[1]

  • Monetary fines: amounts not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first offence and repeat/continuing offence procedures not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, seizure, or abatement may apply per city code.
  • Enforcer and complaints: contact the city code compliance or public works office for inspections and to file complaints (see Help and Support / Resources below).
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are set by each city’s administrative code; if not shown on the cited municipal page, these are not specified on the cited page.
Municipal staff typically have discretion to allow temporary variances for special events.

Applications & Forms

Some cities require a sign permit or temporary use permit for A-frame signs; others allow a limited, permit-free use subject to standards. Where a specific form or permit number is published, consult the city’s official permit page. If a form is not published on the municipal page, then it is not specified on the cited page.

Action steps:

  • Confirm permit requirements with your city’s planning or code compliance office.
  • If required, submit the sign permit or temporary use application and pay applicable fees.
  • Keep documentation on site while the sign is displayed.

Common violations

  • Blocking the accessible path or curb ramp.
  • Placing signs in travel lanes, parking spaces, or on medians.
  • Using permanent fixtures or attaching signs to city property without authorization.
Removing or altering a sign after a notice is a common immediate compliance requirement.

FAQ

Do I need a permit for a sandwich board?
Permit requirements differ by city; some allow limited sidewalk boards without a permit while others require a temporary sign permit or business permit—check your city office.[1]
How close must I keep signs to the storefront?
Many cities require a clear pedestrian path; exact clearance distances are set in local rules and are not specified on the cited page.
What happens if my sign is cited?
City staff may issue a notice to comply, a fine, or remove the sign. Appeal procedures vary by municipality and should be confirmed with the enforcing department.

How-To

  1. Check your city’s sign and public-right-of-way regulations or contact code compliance.
  2. If required, complete and submit any sign or temporary-use permit and pay fees.
  3. Position the sign to preserve required pedestrian clearance and avoid sightline obstruction.
  4. Monitor the sign for weather or safety issues and remove it when conditions or permit terms require.

Key Takeaways

  • Rules vary by Tri-Cities municipality; always verify with the local code compliance office.
  • Maintain clear pedestrian access and follow any permit conditions to avoid fines or removal.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Kennewick municipal code - Signs and right-of-way

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