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It’s a common question we hear at Davis Signs Utah: “Can I just put a business sign in my front yard?” Maybe you run a home-based business, or you’ve got a small shop that doubles as your residence. Or maybe you’re just looking for some extra visibility from passing traffic. The idea sounds simple, but as with most things in life, the answer is: it depends.

Let’s break it down in plain English so you know what you can (and can’t) do when it comes to planting a sign in your yard.

Zoning Is the First Hurdle

Cities and counties in Utah (and pretty much everywhere else) have zoning rules that decide what you can do with your property. Residential zones usually don’t allow commercial signage in the same way business zones do. That means if your home is in a traditional neighborhood, you probably can’t plop down a big lit-up sign advertising your services.

That said, some municipalities do allow small professional signs, think doctors, therapists, or accountants who legally operate home offices. These signs are usually limited in size (for example, no more than 2–4 square feet), and they often can’t be illuminated. The idea is to keep neighborhoods looking residential, not like a strip mall.

Before you buy anything, check with your city’s planning or zoning department. It might feel like a hassle, but it’ll save you fines and headaches later.

HOAs and Neighborhood Rules

Even if your city technically allows a small business sign in a residential yard, your homeowners association (HOA) might not. HOAs often have stricter rules than cities—sometimes banning yard signs altogether (except maybe temporary “For Sale” or political signs).

If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, it’s best to flip through your covenants or give your board a call before you even sketch out your sign ideas.

The Good News: Temporary Signs

Now, here’s where you get some wiggle room. Most cities and HOAs allow temporary signs for short-term use. Yard sale signs, open house signs, contractor signs, or seasonal banners usually fly under the radar, as long as you remove them in a reasonable amount of time.

If you just want to promote an occasional event or weekend service, a temporary yard sign might be all you need. Think lightweight coroplast signs on H-stakes (the same style you see during election season). They’re affordable, easy to set up, and legal in most cases when used sparingly.

Alternatives That Work Better

If permanent signage in your yard isn’t an option, don’t worry, you’ve got other ways to get visibility:

Vehicle graphics: Wraps or magnetic signs on your car or truck essentially turn your ride into a rolling billboard. Park in your driveway, and you’ve got instant exposure.
Window graphics: If your home business has a storefront or office entrance, window decals or perforated vinyl are an excellent way to promote without violating yard sign restrictions.
Directional or monument signs: If you’re in a mixed-use zone or on a larger property, a properly permitted monument sign might be a better long-term investment.

Things to Keep in Mind

Putting a business sign in your front yard may sound like an easy marketing win, but here’s the truth: compliance matters more than creativity. Getting slapped with a fine or having to remove your sign after paying for it is frustrating.

When in doubt:

Call your city zoning office. Ask about residential signage rules.
Check with your HOA. They may be stricter than the city.
Think temporary first. Short-term signs can meet your needs without red tape.
Ask the pros. At Davis Signs Utah, we can walk you through your options, design something that fits the rules, and even help with permitting.

Final Word

So, can you put a business sign in your front yard? Sometimes, but not always. If you’re in a residential zone with no exceptions, your best bet is temporary signage or alternatives like vehicle graphics. If your city allows small professional signs, you might be able to install something tasteful and compliant.

The bottom line: Don’t guess. Get clear answers, stay within the rules, and you’ll protect your wallet and your reputation in the neighborhood.

At Davis Signs Utah, we love helping Utah business owners find the right signage solutions, whether that’s a monument sign, window graphics, or even advice about your yard sign options. Give us a call, and let’s make sure your next sign makes an impact and keeps you out of trouble.

Can You Put a Business Sign in Your Front Yard?