Temporary Signs, Banners, & Promotional Devices

September 1, 2023

Dear Montclair Business Owners:

Congratulations! On February 28, 2023, California’s COVID-State of Emergency came to an end and your business successfully survived through one of the worst business climates since the Great Recession. Together, the City of Montclair and members of our business community continue working cooperatively to restore normalcy to our respective operations.

From the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic in April 2020, and in recognition of the need to support our restaurants and retail establishments, the City of Montclair temporarily suspended enforcement and fees associated with the placement, number, and timeframes for temporary signs (e.g., banners, flags, pennants, streamers, etc.) within the City.  The suspension allowed businesses to utilize temporary signs of various types during the pandemic for the following purposes:

  • Announcing whether a business was open, including any modified hours of operation;
  • Complying with public safety protocols;
  • Identifying alternative avenues for conducting business, such as curb-side service and/or online business; and
  • Other forms of communication to the public that were required due to the evolving nature of the business environment during the pandemic.

With the end of the COVID-State of Emergency, Montclair business owners continuing the practice of using approved, temporary signage of any type will be required, effective October 1, 2023, to comply with banner-related regulations as provided in the Montclair Municipal Code, and summarized in the attached flyer: Temporary Banner Signs for Businesses.  Alternatively, temporary banners, flags, pennants, streamers, and inflatables anywhere on the business operator’s property may simply be removed on or before the date enforcement begins.

Enforcement of City regulations will commence on October 1, 2023.  Prior to the beginning of enforcement activity voluntary compliance is highly encouraged.

Businesses electing to continue utilizing temporary banners (not including flags, pennants, streamers, and inflatables) as permitted by the Montclair Municipal Code may apply for a temporary banner permit.  All new banners shall comply with the size, placement, and timeframes of the Montclair Municipal Code Sections §11.72.120 and 11.72.270 and all other applicable regulations, including payment of a fee.

If you should have any questions about the requirements for a temporary banner sign, please contact the Planning Division at 909-625-9477.

Thank you for your cooperation on this matter.

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