SALEM, Ore. — The City of Salem will resume safety-focused enforcement of temporary signs Monday, Oct. 19, following a pause that began in January amid concerns from local businesses and community members.
The renewed enforcement will focus on signs that may create traffic hazards by distracting drivers or obstructing visibility. Temporary signs include sidewalk signs, rigid signs, feather flags, lawn signs, pennants and banners placed on public or private property.
City officials paused enforcement earlier this year to assess Salem’s sign code, improve processes and strengthen customer service. During the pause, staff emphasized education and outreach to help residents and businesses understand sign regulations.
Assessment Identifies Areas for Improvement
Salem hired consulting firm Baker Tilly to conduct a Sign Code Process and Customer Service Assessment.
The assessment found that the city has an efficient permitting process, offers multiple avenues of customer support and resolves many code compliance cases through communication and corrective action.
However, the review also identified opportunities to improve communication with businesses and property owners before they make signage decisions. Recommendations include updating city webpages and informational resources, establishing consistent customer service standards, strengthening relationships with partner organizations, gathering routine customer feedback and exploring ways to engage businesses earlier in the process.
City staff have begun implementing several recommendations, while others will require additional time and resources.
Rules for Temporary Signs
Temporary signs are prohibited in Salem’s public right-of-way, which includes sidewalks, alleys, curbs, utility poles and planter strips.
Signs placed in these areas may be removed by city staff, and owners may be required to pay a retrieval fee before reclaiming them.
Exceptions are available for certain sidewalk signs in downtown and mixed-use zones, subject to permit requirements and other restrictions.
Residents and business owners can visit the City of Salem’s website for more information about temporary sign regulations and permit requirements.
