Window Signs

Window signs present a special problem, especially at liquor stores. This is due to lax regulation, loopholes, and uncertainty among inspectors. We all know how badly most liquor stores appear, as if they intentionally make the place look crappy to attract a particular class (low) of customer.

While the Regulations cover (and limit) wall-mounted signs, they exempt signs on the interior of windows. There is also a notion that signs made of "soft" material are also exempt, but I cannot find any specific exemption. Thus, while a sign made of Coroplast attached to the outside wall is covered (and prohibited), the exact same sign made of paper, cardboard, or vinyl might not be prohibited. But we've found that, even Coroplast signs stuck on the outside of windows might be passed over by inspectors, if they don't feel like taking action - like this mess in Pikesville pictured below.

This subject was discussed at the 2020 Code Enforcement Improvement Work Group chaired by Izzy Patoka (in whose district this Advance Auto Parts store is). The 2 Apr 2020 minutes state that:

Mr. O’Connell asked if anything can be done to limit the amount of signs plastered on the front of liquor stores. Ms. Clark said they can enforce signs on the outside of the store, but not signs posted inside of the windows. Director Mallinoff said it may be possible to regulate a percentage, such as 25%, open window for public safety purposes. Councilman Patoka said he would support that regulation and will bring it up with the Council.

No mention of this subject is made in the recommendations issued in April 2020. Mr Mallinoff quit later that year, apparently out of frustration with the state of affairs in sleaze-ridden Baltimore County. See here and here.


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Updated 22 Jan 2022 by MAP