City approves new restrictions for temporary signs

Signs for open houses, garage sales and other temporary events around Maricopa will face some new rules in July. 

City Council unanimously approved updates to zoning codes on temporary signage during a Tuesday meeting. The ordinance will not apply to political signs. 

Ordinance 23-31 clarifies where, how long and how many signs may be displayed for an event, defines restricted areas and outlines upkeep requirements. The amendment’s goal is to “minimize visual clutter” and reduce the number of “distracting and unsafe” signs around the city, according to the Development Services Department. 

Individuals who wish to promote open houses, charity events and other non-residential events in residential areas:

• May place up to 10 A-frame signs, such as those directing people to an event
  
• May place signs up to two hours before and two hours after an event
• Must place signs at least 10 feet from street edge
• Must place signs at least five feet away from other signs

For garage sale and other temporary signs for personal use, residents:

• May place one sign within 10 feet from street edge
• May place up to four signs immediately next to a home
• Must place signs at least five feet from street edge

Individuals or organizations placing temporary signs in non-residential areas:

• May place up to one general, A-frame, banner and/or flying banner sign per business or organization
• Must place general, banner and flying banner signs at least 10 feet from street edge
• Must place A-frame or T-frame signs at least five feet from street edge

The updated rules may be found on the city’s municipal code website. The ordinance will take effect July 20.