Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley officials announced Monday that the city has started active enforcement of its sign regulations after months of public outreach and preparation. The effort closes a grace period that allowed business owners time to review city rules, make changes, and bring their properties into compliance. City leaders say the goal is to improve safety and preserve Foley’s visual character. They also aim to maintain fairness by applying the same standards to all businesses.

The city began its enforcement phase on January 12, 2026, following several months of community communication. Courtesy notices were sent to businesses in September and October 2025, providing examples of signs that do not meet city standards. City staff also held outreach events in partnership with the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Foley.

During the grace period, businesses received clear guidance on prohibited sign types. These include portable signs, banners, balloons, pennants, feather and wave flags, inflatables, and other similar displays. Officials explained that these temporary, portable signs are not permitted under Foley’s zoning ordinance.

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“The City recognizes that signage is important to business visibility and customer access,” officials stated in the announcement. “However, temporary and portable sign types are prohibited because they can create visual clutter and reduce overall legibility.”

According to city staff, when businesses use too many attention-grabbing devices in close proximity, customers may have difficulty finding entrances or identifying permanent signs. Such distractions can also pose risks to drivers when bright colors, moving objects, and oversized displays divert attention from the roadway. Officials say they want to maintain clear, effective signage that supports local businesses while protecting public safety.

When a business is found in violation, the city will issue a Notice of Violation. Each notice provides roughly 15 to 20 business days for owners or property managers to bring their signage into compliance. City planners say this added window gives businesses a fair chance to make adjustments without immediate penalties.

The city encourages business and property owners with questions to contact Foley’s Planning Department directly. Officials say the enforcement is not punitive but intended to ensure a clean, consistent look across the community’s commercial areas and to help all businesses operate on equal terms.