The city of Phoenix ordinance governing signs in the right-of-way includes severe penalties for anyone violating the ordinance, ranging from $250 to $2,500 for each violation. The purpose of the ordinance is to ensure Phoenix thoroughfares and neighborhoods remain safe and well maintained.
Examples of illegal signs in the right-of-way include weight loss advertisements posted on utility poles; signs on the shoulder of the road promoting a business; A-frame signs placed on sidewalks; and garage sale signs on boxes placed on sidewalks or posted on utility poles, among others.

Illegal signs can become a hazard if they fall into the street. They can block the view of drivers and pedestrians and they can damage the structural integrity of utility poles. Signs also litter our neighborhoods and contribute to blight conditions.

Right-of-way areas include streets, curbs, medians, utility poles, unimproved shoulders of streets, etc. The sign ordinance allows police officers to cite individuals placing illegal signs and businesses or individuals who may benefit from the illegal signs, even if the business or individual did not post the sign.

Business owners may post signs on their property with proper permits obtained from the Development Services Department, 602-495-0301.
For more information, download a brochure and view examples of the most common illegal signs at phoenix.gov/NSD. To report a violation, call 602-534-4444, email illegal. signs@phoenix.gov or use the smartphone app, “MyPhxAz.”

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