Rules for billboards and other advertising signs on highways

Billboards and other advertising signs are regulated by state and federal laws on most state highways. For a convenient reference of state regulations, please read the WSDOT's Highway Advertising Control Manual. For Motorist Information Signs (MIS), which alert travelers to services available on or near state highways, please visit our MIS page.

We issue advertising sign permits for advertising sign installations on private property along regulated state highways within commercial or industrial areas. Each structure requires a valid Outdoor Advertising Sign Permit (Form 224-018 (PDF 241 KB) from our Forms Library) and a $150, non-refundable permit application fee. Each permit is valid for the year in which they are issued, and must be renewed annually. Annual renewals are $150 per sign face for signs that generate rental income. The approval process may take up to 30 days from the date the application is received. 

For advertising agricultural products along state highways, with the exception of interstates, there is a separate permit. These permits are $50 and are valid for five years. Agricultural product signs may be installed during the period of time that the seasonal agricultural products are being sold. Each structure requires a valid temporary agricultural directional sign permit (DOT Form 224-068 Permit Application - Temporary Agricultural Directional Sign (PDF 228 KB) from our Forms Library) and a $50, non-refundable permit application fee. The approval process may take up to 30 days from the date the application is received.

Advertising on other parts of the state highway system

Advertising is available within the State Highway System in our Safety Rest Areas and the Washington State Ferry system. These programs provide displays for brochures and other similar advertising features.

Advertising at Safety Rest Areas

Advertising space is available on displays in 20 Safety Rest Areas around the state. To advertise in a rest area, the only requirement is that your services be of interest to travelers.

To advertise in one of our Safety Rest Areas, please contact

Storey Co., Inc.
(360) 412-0666 or Cell: (206) 321-4112 (Best way to reach).
 

Advertising on Washington State Ferries

Advertising space is available on some Washington State Ferry runs and in some terminals. Please visit Business with State Ferries for information on advertising within the Washington State Ferry system.

Disputes

Should you disagree with a permit decision that has been made, you have the right to have the Washington State Traffic Engineer hear the issue and recommend a final order. To make such a request, submit the request in writing to:

WSDOT
Attn: State Traffic Engineer
PO Box 47344
Olympia, WA 98504-7344