Sign code amendment

The City is reviewing the current zoning code for signs. The goal is to allow more flexibility for signs downtown.

Overview

Video: Watch the video from city staff to learn more about the sign ordinance amendment. 

Memo: Read the staff memo presented at the City Planning Commission Committee of the Whole

In this section

  • Goals of sign code change
  • Possible zoning code amendments
  • Adoption process
  • Meetings
  • Resources
  • Media inquires

Zoning amendment contact

Email comments or questions to Sara Roman

Goals of sign code change

Recent plans say signs could help make downtown more lively. They also suggest ways to improve the main entertainment areas.

We are now looking at the current rules for signs to see where we can make changes to:

  • Increase vibrancy
  • Improve sense of safety
  • Support public access to arts and culture
  • Increase visibility for downtown businesses

The sign code amendment may change the zoning rules for things like:

  • Types of signs, size, and locations allowed
  • How signs can be lit up at night
  • Testing creative sign ideas in entertainment destinations 
  • Changes to rules for billboards
Neon sign outside of Murrays Steaks, photo credit: Jason Wittenberg

Relevant sections of the zoning code

The chapters of the zoning code listed below may change as part of the amendment:

  • Chapter 525 Administration and Procedures
  • Chapter 530 Zoning Districts
  • Chapter 535 Overlay Districts
  • Chapter 550 Development Standards
  • Chapter 560 Signs
  • Chapter 565 Definitions

Read the legislation details for the signs ordinance (2025-00744)

Adoption process

Changes to the zoning code must go through a rigorous review process.

Learn about the process

Effective date

The Sign Code Amendment is “adopted” and goes into effect once the mayor signs it. The mayoral signature is the last step after the adoption process above. 

Past meetings

At the Aug. 21, 2025, City Planning Commission Committee of the Whole meeting:

  • Staff shared suggested code changes and asked for feedback.
  • Support was shown for:
    • New types of signs
    • More flexibility for downtown signs
    • Legislative changes to promote arts and culture.
  • People gave mixed feedback about adding more billboards.

View the meeting agenda

Upcoming meetings

  • Planning Commission Public Hearing – date and time to be determined
  • Business, Inspections, Housing, and Zoning Committee – date and time to be determined
  • City Council – date and time to be determined
  • Published Ordinance in Effect – date and time to be determined

Resources

Recent Planning work related to downtown:

Media requests

For all media inquiries, contact the City of Minneapolis Communications Department.
Contact Communications

Contact us

Sara Roman

Community Planning & Economic Development

Email Sara Roman

Phone

612-673-2855

Address

Public Service Building
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 320
Minneapolis, MN 55415