Signs are structures, devices, posters, etc. designed/intended/used to display or draw attention to a message that is visible from any portion of the public right-of-way open to vehicular or pedestrian traffic. Signs can be non-projected or projected.

All signs, whether or not in connection with a special event under the special events ordinance, are governed by Austin City Code Chapter 25-10 – Sign Regulations. The City regulates signs to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the City and its residents.

A non-projected special event sign:

  • may not exceed 96 square feet
    AND
  • must be attached to:
    • a fence located at the boundaries of the special event venue
      OR
    • the wall of a legally permitted permanent or temporary structure included within the boundaries of a special event venue, if the owner of the building or structure has agreed to placement of the sign
  • may not impair the vision of or distract a driver of a vehicle

Most non-projected signs do not require a sign installation permit.
 

Projections

No more than two projected special event signs are permitted per special event.

Projected special event signs may only be displayed on a single facade of a legally permitted building and may not exceed the lesser of:

  • 50% of the area of the facade
    OR
  • 6,000 square feet

A projected special event sign may not:

  • shine, fully or partially, on any property/building/ public right-of-way other than the building where the image will appear
  • impair the vision of or distract a driver of a vehicle
  • be controlled through social media or by any person other than the applicant
  • be displayed at any time outside the hours of 7 a.m. - 2 a.m. during the approved duration of the special event

An application for a projected special event sign permit must be submitted by the special event permit holder and must include letters of approval from the owners of the building where the projected image will appear and the property where the projected image will originate.

For sign permit application information and appointment scheduling, please visit the City of Austin Outdoor Sign Permits page.
 

Street Banners

Event organizers may display Street Banners on City lampposts to promote charitable, educational, arts, community, and public interest activities and events. City code prohibits the use of banners for commercial advertising or political campaigns.

The City offers event organizers a cost-effective, high-impact, place-based tool for engaging the public, promoting events, raising awareness and communicating key messages.

For more information, please email ATXStreetBanners@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-9395.
 

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