Email Scam (Phishing Attempt)

The FBI has warned that scammers are pretending to be city officials to request payments for planning and zoning permits. We're aware of phishing attempts following this scam in Madison.

Portable Signs

Example of an A-frame style portable sign

Portable signs (otherwise known as A-frame signs or sandwich board signs) may help a business identify themselves, attract customers, and advertise specials.

There are two types of portable signs: portable signs on private property and portable signs in the public right-of-way (ROW). The public right-of-way refers to the public land adjacent to the street like the tree terrace and public sidewalk. 

If your business has space on private property to display a portable sign, you are not eligible for a public ROW sign. Portable signs are only allowed to be displayed in the public ROW for businesses that lack sufficient space on private property. 

Requirements

  • All portable signs require a permit. Public ROW signs also require annual renewal.
  • Only A-frame or sandwich board style portable signs are allowed.
  • The sign face is the display area between the frame. The maximum size of the sign face is 24" x 36".
  • The sign structure is the outside structure of the frame. The maximum size of the sign structure is 30" x 48". The maximum height of the sign structure is 48" tall.
  • Portable signs are not allowed is most residential neighborhoods.
  • Portable signs may only be displayed during open business hours.
  • One portable sign is allowed per street frontage. A maximum of two portable signs can be displayed per zoning lot on private property 
  • If you have a sidewalk cafe up to 2 signs can be displayed instead of a portable sign. These signs can't exceed 2' x 3'.

Resources

Was this page helpful to you? * required