Breckenridge, CO
Home MenuHome New Search Box - Custom Content
Sign Permits and Guidelines
There is important information about signs to review if you are interested in placing a sign within the Town of Breckenridge. General questions can be answered by viewing our FAQs at the bottom of this page or you can speak with a Town planner about signage. There is also a sign handbook, which helps explain the Sign Code in more general terms.
If you are ready to apply, you need a Sign Permit Application. To access the Sign Code, see Title 8, Chapter 2 of the Breckenridge Town Code.
Contact the planning department for a current planner if you have additional questions, (970) 453-3160, or websitecommdev@townofbreckenridge.com.
The Town of Breckenridge is excited to announce the new Sign Code Handbook (Fall 2025)! It is a simplified, user-friendly guide for businesses and property owners. Whether you’re opening a new storefront, updating your existing sign, or planning a temporary event, this handbook will help navigate the Town’s sign regulations with confidence.
Process For Sign Permit
Below is an overview of the sign permit application process. Please reach out to the Planning Department if you have any questions; (970) 453-3160, or websitecommdev@townofbreckenridge.com.
If work on a sign or a sign installation will encroach into the Town right of way, an Excavation and Encroachment Permit must be obtained from the Streets Department. For information on the Excavation and Encroachment Permit, please call the Public Works Department at 970-453-3170.
Design Guidelines
To complement Breckenridge’s historic and mountain town setting, all signage should:
- Use high quality materials such as wood, metal accents (less than 25%), or 3D wood relief carved high density urethane (HDU) signboards.
- Avoid blocking pedestrian walkways or vehicle sight lines.
- Use Shielded, downward-casting external lighting only (no internal or back-lit signs).
- Use warm lighting (less than 3,000 kelvins) in line with the Town’s Dark Sky regulations.
- Signs must remain well-maintained – clean, legible, and securely mounted.
Read the Full Design Guidelines Here: https://breckenridge.town.codes/Code/9-15-18
Read the Full Dark Sky Guidelines Here: https://breckenridge.town.codes/Code/9_Ch12
Permitted vs Prohibited Signs
Common permitted sign types include:
- Wall Signs (permit required)
- Projecting Signs (permit required)
- Monument of Freestanding Signs (permit required)
- Awning or Window Signs
- Historic District-specific signage
- Temporary or Special Event Signs (with Town Approval of SEPA)
The following signs are prohibited within Town limits:
- Flashing, animated, or internally illuminated signs
- Off-premise advertising or billboards
- Temporary or portable “A-frame” signs, sandwich boards
- Roof-mounted signs
- Signs attached to trees
- Banner signs
- Inflatable or attention-getting devices
Always contact the Planning Department before purchasing or installing a new sign to avoid non-compliance.
To view the full list of prohibited sign features, please view the Sign Code: http://breckenridge.town.codes/Code/9-15-11
Special Events
Temporary and Special Event Signs
Special Event Permits (SEPA) may allow temporary signage such as banners, flags, archways for the duration of approved events. Temporary banners must be removed within 72 hours of the event.
Main Street Banners
The Town of Breckenridge provides a space over Main Street at the intersection of Main Street and Lincoln Avenue to announce town events. The Main Street banner location may be reserved a maximum of 6 months out by filling out a Main Street Banner Permit Application.
To make an inquiry regarding availability please email: mainstreetbanner@townofbreckenridge.com or call Public Works Administration at 970-453-3170.
Display of Merchandise
Businesses in certain Land Use Districts may display limited merchandise outdoors to maintain the facade.
Allowed:
- One individual item for sale, or one dressed mannequin (on private property)
- Larger equipment (e.g., bikes, paddleboards) with a permit
Not Allowed:
- Clothing racks, tables, bins, or multiple items
- Displays blocking entrances or sidewalks
Read the full Outdoor Display of Merchandise here: https://breckenridge.town.codes/Code/9_Ch7
Enforcement and Compliance
The Town monitors signage to ensure fairness and aesthetic consistency. Violations may result in:
- Written notice and opportunity to correct
- Fines beginning at $100 for first offense
- Further penalties per 1-4-1-1 of the Town Code
Keep your business in good standing by maintaining all signage and contacting the Planning Department if you need guidance.
To review the Sign Code's Penalties section, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Additional Help?
We’re here to help you! Feel free to call, email, or visit us in Town Hall.
Community Development Department
150 Ski Hill Road | PO Box 368 | Breckenridge, CO 80424
(970) 453-3160
websitecommdev@townofbreckenridge.com
Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.
They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below.
