If you run (or plan to open) a law firm in Castle Rock, Colorado, you’ll want to ensure your signage follows local rules. The town regulates commercial signs carefully — to balance businesses having visibility, with keeping the community clean and safe. Here’s an easy-to-understand guide to what law firms (or any businesses) must consider when putting up signs in Castle Rock.
📋 What Are the Local Sign Rules in Castle Rock
✅ Castle Rock’s “Municipal Sign Code” governs all signs
- The town treats signs as an “accessory” to the business — meaning they’re allowed, but under regulated conditions (size, location, number, etc.).
- The aim is to avoid “visual conflict” — too many or too big signs — which might harm the character of the community.
📄 You’ll likely need a Sign Permit
- For most “permanent and temporary signs,” a permit is required.
- The permit process involves filing an application, submitting a site or elevation plan (showing where sign is to be placed), drawings of the sign design (dimensions, faces, how it’s mounted), and — if illuminated — an electrical permit.
- The fee for a sign permit is $75 per sign, plus additional fees for things like electrical permits or plan review where applicable.
🏢 What types of signs are allowed (and under what rules)
Here are common types of signage and what the code allows for a business such as a law firm:
| Sign Type | Rules / Notes |
| Wall / Building-mounted signs (Fascia signs) | Usually allowed, but size and placement must follow code and be included in permit application. |
| Window signage | Allowed, but often restricted to a certain percentage of window area (common in many municipalities — check the Code or permit guidance). |
| Temporary banners or event signs | Allowed with restrictions: typically one sign per street-front per business, limited to a certain size (for example, 32 sq ft), and often only for up to 30 days or the event duration. |
| Portable / sidewalk (“sandwich board”) signs | Castle Rock allows one sandwich-board sign per organization, but only during business hours, only if the business physically occupies the building, and the sign must be small (e.g. not exceed ~8 sq ft / 4 ft height) to avoid hazards for pedestrians/traffic. |
| Electronic message signs (digital displays) | Allowed — but subject to additional regulations under the municipal code (for example, electronic message signs sections) and must follow permit requirements. |
🚫 What’s Not Allowed or Is Strictly Controlled
- Signs in public right-of-way (e.g. on sidewalks, streets, public property) are generally prohibited unless properly permitted (and in most cases not allowed).
- Sign types like “wind signs,” inflatable advertising signs / air-dancers / feather flags are not allowed.
- Illuminated signs or electronic signs need proper permits (and sometimes an electrical permit) and must comply with lighting/visibility rules.
🎯 What This Means for a Law Firm in Castle Rock
If you’re a law firm (or any professional services firm) in Castle Rock and want signage that looks professional, here are practical takeaways:
- Plan ahead: Before ordering or installing any sign, you should apply for a sign permit through the town’s Development Services / Zoning Division. Be ready with drawings, location plans, landlord/property owner consent (if applicable), and — for lighted signs — an electrical permit.
- Choose sign type wisely: A tasteful wall-mounted sign near your entrance or office lobby, plus a small window sign or modest sandwich-board sign (during business hours), may give you good visibility without violating code.
- Avoid prohibited designs: Skip inflatable signs, feather flags, or placing anything in public right-of-way — these are risky and likely to be removed (or generate fines).
- Temporary events or promotions: If you plan a campaign (e.g. a free legal consultation day), a temporary banner is allowed under certain rules — one per street front, limited to 32 sq ft, with a limited duration (e.g. 30 days).
- Digital signage — proceed with caution: If you want an electronic message sign (e.g. LED display), be sure to verify with the town code about size limits, illumination restrictions, permit requirements, and structural / electrical compliance.
✅ Summary
- Following the municipal sign code ensures your law firm stays compliant — avoiding fines or removal of signage.
- Proper signage under permit lends professional credibility, while respecting community aesthetics and safety.
- A well-placed, compliant sign helps clients find your office — without causing visual clutter or violating local regulations.
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