Campaign Sign Regulations

Campaign signs are considered temporary noncommercial signs, as defined by the Los Altos Municipal Code. The following provisions of the sign ordinance apply to all campaign signs placed on residential and commercial properties:

Residential Districts

  • Each residential dwelling unit (including multi-family, townhome, condominium, or apartment-type structures) is allowed a cumulative display area of twelve (12) square feet.
  • Residential signs may be freestanding or attached to walls, windows, doors, or fences, but may not be attached to trees, bushes or living plants. If freestanding, residential sign structures may not exceed six feet in height.

Commercial Districts

  • Temporary campaign signs are allowed in storefront windows. The maximum area for window signs is fifteen (15) percent of window area. The total of permanent and temporary signage allowed on windows may not exceed forty (40) percent.
  • In addition to the above, signs may be freestanding but may not exceed twelve (12) square feet or six feet in height.

General Provisions

  • Signs shall not be specially illuminated.
  • Sign display area is computed by means of the smallest geometric shape within which the sign face can be enclosed.
  • Signs shall not be placed on City property, including City streets, roads, sidewalks, parking areas and all public rights-of-way. Any unauthorized sign posted on City property may be summarily removed by the City.
  • No sign may be placed on private property without the consent of the owner.
  • These regulations do not override terms of private contracts, such as leases and rental agreements, or private covenants, conditions, restrictions.

Recycling Campaign Signs

After election season, you may be wondering what to do with all those campaign signs. You can place the signs in your curbside trash bins, or you can bring them to the Municipal Services Center at 707 Fremont Avenue, Monday through Friday, 8 AM-3 PM, and the City will recycle the signs for you! 

Questions

Questions or concerns can be addressed by the City Clerk's Office at (650) 947-2720.

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