Temporary Sign Limitations

The City of Brea offers several options for the placement of temporary signs on private and public (city right of way) property.

Private Property

Permits are available for: 

1.  a banner for up to 90 days per calendar year, or

2.  a banner or portable sign for eight-hours, once-per-week, for up to six months. 

No more than one of each type of permit may be granted within a one year period. Specific standards for these signs are contained within Section 20.28.090 of the City Code. The only exception is a grand opening banner, which is permitted without a temporary sign permit for new businesses. 

In order to install a temporary sign on a private property, a Temporary Sign permit application must be submitted and approved by the City. This application must be submitted to the City's Planning Division. The application form is available here, and the cost for this permit is $85.

Please contact the Planning Division at (714) 990-7674 or planner@cityofbrea.net for any questions regarding temporary sign permit for private properties.  

City Right of Way

Temporary sign placement at the city owned light poles is allowed only for government-sponsored events, subject to specific location, design, and installation standards for such signs. One 45-day permit is available per year. Specific standards for these signs can be found within section 12.04.030.B of the City Code. Please note that private temporary signs are not permitted on public properties (e.g. City facilities, parks, etc.).

In order to install temporary signs within the city public right-of-way, an Encroachment Permit and a Temporary Signs within Public Right-Of-Way Permit applications must be submitted and approved by the City. Both applications must be submitted to the City's Engineering Division. The application forms are available here, and the cost for this permit is $150. 

Please contact the Engineering Division at (714) 990-7667 or pwencroachmentpermit@cityofbrea.net for any questions regarding temporary sign permit for city right-of-ways.    

Prohibited Temporary Signs

City policy regarding temporary signs prohibits large inflatable (roof-top) type installations, as well as moving or rotating signs such as “sign dancers / spinners.” Additional specifics on prohibited signs may be found within City Code Section 20.28.240.

Application & Contact Information

Apply for a temporary sign permit by completing an application form. Questions may be directed to the Planning Division at 714-990-7674.

Real Estate Signs

The City has regulations, and enforces, where real estate and open house signs can be placed. View the document for details.