Frequently Asked Questions

There are several types of signs controlled by this ordinance. This includes for-sale signs, garage sale signs, work being done onsite signs and other signs that are temporary rather than permanent.

Temporary signs can be placed on private property and not in public rights-of-way. Public rights-of-way vary in size. It may be difficult to know where the line between private property and public right-of-way is. Due to the variations in how public rights-of-way are established, there are no set guidelines that apply to all lot configurations consistently. Therefore, no map is available showing all of Owatonna’s rights-of-way. A helpful guide showing examples of illegal signs is available at owatonna.gov.

Signs in violation are removed by City staff. During this increased enforcement period, illegal signs are being temporarily stored at the Parks Maintenance Facility at 1140 Industrial Road. Sign owners can retrieve their signs there between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. weekdays through noon on Friday, October 17. At that time, unclaimed signs will be disposed of. The ordinance will continue to be enforced on an ongoing basis with illegal signs being disposed of immediately and not stored temporarily.

For additional information, visit Planning & Zoning | Owatonna, MN at Owatonna.gov.