New Temporary Sign Regulations: A Guide for Property Owners

Published on September 25, 2024

By Mauricio Betancur, City Clerk

At its regular meeting in August, the City Commission of Sunny Isles Beach adopted an ordinance revising the regulations for all types of temporary signs, including on-premises and off-premises signs. These temporary signs are subject to specific rules. It is essential for property owners to understand that they are ultimately responsible for ensuring that any signs on their property adhere to these regulations. Below is a breakdown of the new rules governing off-premises temporary signs, which include, but are not limited to, political campaign signs.

Property Owner Responsibility

As a property owner, it is your responsibility to ensure compliance with these new regulations. Whether for personal, business, or political purposes, any off-premises temporary sign placed on your property must follow these rules. Failure to comply may result in the issuance of a civil violation.

By understanding and following these guidelines, you help maintain the safety, aesthetics, and order of our community. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. By following these new sign regulations, you ensure that your property remains in compliance while supporting community standards for temporary signage.

Key Regulations for Off-Premises Temporary Signs

An off-premises sign advertises a business, product, service, or event that is not located on the same property as the sign. This is different from an on-premises sign, which advertises something that is directly related to the property, such as real estate, construction, or grand opening signs.  Below are key regulations for off-premises signs:

• No Permit Required. Property owners are not required to obtain a permit for off-premises temporary signs.
• Number of Signs. Each property is allowed a maximum of 3 off-premises temporary signs at any given time.
• Placement Restrictions. Off-premises temporary signs cannot be placed on public rights-of-way or on city-owned property. This includes utility poles, traffic signs, bus shelters, and similar city infrastructure. If any signs are placed in violation of this rule, the city reserves the right to remove them without prior notice, which may also result in the issuance of a civil violation.
• Non-Illumination Requirement. Temporary signs must remain static and cannot be illuminated in any way. This includes prohibitions on lighting that flashes, moves, rotates, blinks, or changes in intensity or color.
• Consent from Property Owners. Signs cannot be placed on any property without the explicit consent of the property owner. Property owners are responsible for removing signs that are placed without their permission.
• Time Limit for Display. Temporary signs can be displayed for a maximum of 120 consecutive days, once per calendar year, per sign.
• Prohibited Sign Locations. Temporary signs cannot be affixed to fences, trees, balcony railings, rooftops, windows, or doors.

Regulations by Zoning District

The rules for off-premises temporary signs vary slightly depending on the zoning district:

•R-1, RMF-1, RTH Zoning Districts

o   Maximum number of signs per property: 3

o   Maximum height: 3 ft. from the ground to the top of the sign

o   Maximum sign area: 3.5 square ft. per sign

•RMF-2, MUR, TCD, B-1, BO Zoning Districts

o   Maximum number of signs per property: 3

o   Maximum height: 6 ft. from the ground to the top of the sign

o   Maximum sign area: 8 sq. ft. per sign

o   Signs must be set back at least 6 ft. from all property lines.

View City Zoning Map

Political Signs as Off-Premises Temporary Signs

With the 2024 election cycle well underway, it's important to note that political signs are treated as off-premises temporary signs under these regulations. Therefore, they are subject to the same restrictions and guidelines outlined above. Candidates and their supporters should work with property owners to ensure that campaign signs comply with these rules, particularly regarding placement and the time limits for display.

Any questions may be directed to the City Manager’s Office or the City Clerk’s Office.