Sign Permits

The city's Sign Code was developed in close cooperation with local business owners, sign companies, citizens, community organizations, and elected officials.

Applications for special events and permanent sign permits must be submitted online to Planning Services.

The Montrose Sign Code allows off-premise signs. However, a Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Permit is required prior to city issuance of a permit for off-premise signs along all state highways. Visit the CDOT website for permit information.

Any questions regarding the Sign Code can be directed to the Planning Services office via an online form or by calling 970-240-1477.

Temporary Signs

No permit is required if:

• The temporary sign (banner) will be no larger than 64 square feet.
• Only one temporary sign may be displayed at any one time.

Special Event Signs

Balloons, streamers, pennants, and hand-held signs, etc. are only allowed as part of a Special Event Permit. Special Events Permits are issued for event durations of 96 hours or less and each entity is allowed 12 permits per calendar year, which may be issued consecutively. 

Type of signage allowed under Special Events Permit is limited to:

• Balloons (must be smaller than a 3x3x3 cube and cannot be flown higher than the maximum height allowed for a freestanding sign in the zoning district of the event location)
• Streamers
• Pennants
• Flags
• Human-held and human-powered signs
• Costumed performers

All other animated signs not listed above are not allowed and all signs must be located on-premise. Banners and special events signage are only allowed in non-residential zoning districts. There are size and height limitations for banners, balloons, streamers, and pennants.

Apply for a permit online using the Special Events Form and direct additional questions to the Planning Services office via email or call 970-240-1407.

For more specific information visit the links below:

• Sign Permit Application
• Temporary Signs and Special Events Permits Brochure