Sign Services in Hayward, California
Professional signage solutions for Hayward businesses
Snapshot: Hayward's Sign‑Permit Rules
It is unlawful to erect any exterior sign in Hayward—wall‑mounted, projecting, ground, awning, illuminated, or fabric—without first obtaining a Sign Permit under Chapter 10, Article 7 of the Hayward Municipal Code (Section 10‑7.201).
Licensed Contractors
While property owners may apply directly, Sign Permits generally process more quickly when submitted by a CSLB‑licensed C‑45 sign contractor or C‑10 electrician via Hayward's e‑Permits portal.
Business Registration
A valid Hayward Business License (Tax Certificate) is required before any Sign Permit can be issued. Applications are submitted online or via email/fax to the Business License office.
Services We Offer in Hayward
Custom Sign Fabrication – Window vinyl, interior wall graphics, vehicle wraps, ADA plaques, wayfinding systems, menu boards, blade & hanging signs, plexiglass inserts, and storefront branding.
Professional Installation – Skilled crews install wall‑mounted, ground‑mounted, Dibond panels, and drop‑ship sign products throughout Downtown, South Hayward, Hayward Hills, and Burbank.
Sign Repair & Maintenance – Comprehensive cleaning, resurfacing, removal of outdated signs, and fabrication of exact‑match replacements.
Permit Guidance – End‑to‑end support preparing applications, verifying code compliance, and coordinating directly with Planning & Building staff.
Our Hayward Advantage
- Deep expertise in HMC Chapter 10, Article 7 (Sign Regulations).
- Development Services/Permit Center at 777 B Street, Hayward, CA 94541.
- Office hours: Monday–Friday, 8 am–5 pm.
- Transparent fee structure—no hidden plan‑check surcharges; all fees published in the Master Fee Schedule.
- Established network of CSLB‑licensed contractors to pull and close your permit seamlessly.
How We Help (No License? No Problem)
Pre‑flight code check – Confirm size, height, lighting, and zoning limits before fabrication per HMC §10‑7.201.
Document prep – Complete and submit your Sign Permit application through the e‑Permits Portal.
Permit liaison – Track your permit status online, respond to plan‑check comments, and liaise with staff via the portal.
Licensed‑contractor match‑up – Connect with a vetted C‑45/C‑10 subcontractor to officially pull and close the permit.
Permit‑free options – If you choose to display temporary or promotional signage without a full permit, we'll outline the Temporary Sign Permit process, associated fines, and Planning Director approval requirements under HMC §10‑7.600.
Recent Hayward Wins
Blade‑sign retrofit on Whipple Road—approved over‑the‑counter in one day.
Illuminated cabinet install at Hayward City Center—permitted and installed within a week.
Vinyl window graphics for a café in Downtown, first‑inspection pass.
Hayward Sign‑Permit FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small window or door decal?
Yes—Hayward regulates all exterior signs, regardless of size, under HMC §10‑7.201.
Where do I file, and what are the hours?
Development Services/Permit Center, 777 B Street, Hayward. Open Mon–Fri 8 am–5 pm.
How long does review take?
Most Sign Permits are approved administratively over‑the‑counter; more complex cases may take up to 10 business days.
What does a Sign Permit cost?
Fees are published in Hayward's Master Fee Schedule, including Permit and Plan Review fees—no hidden surcharges.
How large can my sign be?
Portable A‑frame or sandwich‑board signs are limited to 4 sq ft per face and 3 ft height (HMC §10‑7.300).
Are digital or electronic signs allowed?
Yes—must comply with all applicable sign regulations; flashing, animated, or high‑intensity illumination may require special review per HMC §10‑7.201.
Which signs are banned outright?
Unauthorized signs, including off‑site billboards and signs obstructing public rights‑of‑way, are prohibited; report violations to Code Enforcement.
Do banners need a special permit?
Yes—temporary promotional or grand‑opening banners require a Temporary Sign Permit and Planning Director approval under HMC §10‑7.600.
Can I display an A‑frame on the sidewalk?
Yes—as long as it meets the 4 ft × 3 ft size limit and does not obstruct sidewalks or ADA access.
Penalties for unpermitted signs?
Code Enforcement may issue daily fines and require removal; repeated violations can incur up to triple the standard Permit fees under HMC §10‑7.900.
Quick Links
- HMC Chapter 10, Article 7 – Sign Regulations
- Sign Permit Application & e‑Permits Portal
- Business License Info & Forms
- Development Services Dept. (Permit Center)
- Temporary Sign Permit Details
- Master Fee Schedule
- Report Illegal Signage / Code Enforcement
- Portable Sign Standards (A‑frame)
- FAQ: Sign Permits
- City Charter & Codes Overview
Looking for more information about signage in Hayward? Visit our comprehensive Service Areas page to learn more about our work throughout the region.