Chapter 2: Appearance – Creating a Strong First Impression
A clean, well-kept storefront is one of the simplest and most effective ways to attract customers and show pride in Downtown Delray Beach. The way your business looks also contributes to the overall experience for residents, visitors, and neighboring merchants.
This chapter outlines both best practices for keeping your business inviting and the key city rules that ensure consistency and fairness across Downtown.
Why it Matters
Downtown Delray Beach is known for its vibrant streetscape and pedestrian-friendly charm. Each business contributes to this experience. Neat storefronts, consistent signage, and clear walkways and alleyways create an inviting environment that keeps visitors returning.
Appearance Standards – Best Practices
Think of these as the everyday actions that make your business welcoming and professional:
Signage – All signs require City permits. Display clear, professional signs that are easy to read and well-maintained. No flashing lights, inflatables, or feather flags are allowed. Vinyl banners are prohibited. Sandwich/A-frame signs are not allowed unless approved for special events.
Sidewalks – Keep the area in front of your business clean and uncluttered. This includes the area directly in front of your business – even if your building doesn’t technically “own” the sidewalk. Remove litter, gum, leaves, animal waste, spills, and stains. Pressure washing is encouraged periodically – especially before weekends or high-traffic events – to keep walkways looking fresh. Be aware that only certain approved ecological chemicals can be used to clean the sidewalk and streets. Check with the city (Public Works) before using any chemicals or cleaning agents. Outdoor seating or displays should be arranged neatly and never block walkways.
Building Exterior – Maintain fresh paint, clean windows, and awnings in good condition. Small repairs done promptly prevent bigger issues later. Ensure address numbers are visible from the sidewalk.
Windows and Displays – Clean both the inside and outside of windows regularly. Covering more than 20% of any window with signage, posters, or decals is allowed. Reflective tinting is not allowed.
Awnings and Entryways – Awnings require permits and signage approved. They must be clean and in good repair, no mold, rips, or fading. Awning poles should not impede pedestrian safety. Ensure entryways are accessible, unobstructed, and clean.
Outdoor Furniture and Retail Displays – You may display merchandise outside your store, but it must be immediately adjacent to your storefront. It must not block the pedestrian path, and it must not exceed 10% of your interior floor space. Tables, planters, or racks must be portable, maintained and not block ADA access or reduce the sidewalk to less than 6 ft. of clear passage.
Lighting – Use lighting that feels warm and inviting. It should highlight your storefront without creating glare for neighbors or passing cars. Decorative string lights are allowed, but must be neatly installed and regularly checked for burnt-out bulbs. Adequate nighttime lighting improves safety and visibility while showcasing your storefront after hours. Lighting choices in historic building may require additional approval from the Historic Preservation board (HPB).
Planters and Landscaping – Maintain healthy plants; remove dead greenery and weeds. Trim greenery, keep planters healthy, and remove litter or weeds regularly. Trim trees or shrubs within your leased frontage. Keep planters from blocking walkways or fire lanes.
Graffiti, Vandalism and Repairs – Graffiti or vandalism should be reported to the DDA, Public Works and the Delray Beach Police. Remove graffiti as quickly as possible. Repair broken fixtures (signs, railings, lighting) quickly. Storm damage or other wear-and-tear should be cleaned up promptly to avoid hazards.
Alleyways Matter Too – While storefronts face the public eye, alleyways are also part of the customer experience. Clean, well-kept alleys enhance the overall look of Downtown, reduce unwanted odors, and deter pests. They also make it safer and easier for deliveries, trash removal, and employee access. Treating these “back doors” with the same care as your front entrance helps maintain a professional, welcoming impression for visitors and neighbors alike.
Trash and Dumpster Areas – Use approved containers. Lids should be closed. Garbage must not overflow more than 2 inches above the top of can. Dumpsters are required to be surrounded by a fence with closing gates. The pads should be washed down regularly – especially during the summer. Request more pickups if needed. Recycling is encouraged. There are two locations within the downtown. One is at the NW corner of the City Hall parking lot. The other is located at the NW corner of the Railroad Parking Lot. Make certain to break down boxes.
Pest and Rodent Control – Keep storage and trash areas clean. Maintain regular professional pest services. Report rodent sightings to the City immediately.
Sound – Use background music and entertainment at a considerate level so visitors and neighbors can enjoy Downtown together.
Tip: These practices not only improve customer perception but also protect the long-term value of your property.
Codes & Compliance – Knowing the Rules
Operating a business downtown means being part of a unique and carefully planned environment. To keep things running smoothly, the City of Delray Beach has guidelines that balance business needs, community enjoyment, and long-term growth. Understanding and following these rules saves time, reduces stress, and protects your investment.
Why It Matters
- Avoid fines or enforcement action
- Keep customer areas safe and accessible
- Ensure your fussiness fits within the vision of Downtown Delray Beach
- Strengthen the overall experience for residents, visitors, and fellow merchants
What’s Enforceable
The City of Delray Beach enforces certain rules to maintain Downtown’s appearance, character and quality of life. These are the rules that can result in citations or enforcement actions if not followed. Below are the most relevant for business owners:
The City of Delray Beach has specific codes that apply to signage, sidewalks, lighting, and more. These are the rules that can result in citations or enforcement actions if not followed.
Signage
No flashing lights, roof signs, or temporary banners without approval.
LDR §4.6.7 – Signage Standards
Sidewalk Use
Public sidewalks must remain clear; Sidewalk Café Permits required for tables/chairs.
LDR §4.6.9 – Sidewalk Uses
Building Facade
Properties in the Historic District must follow approved guidelines for colors, materials, and repairs.
LDR §4.5.1 – Historic District Standards
Lighting
Exterior lighting cannot spill into neighboring properties or create glare.
LDR §4.6.5 – Lighting Standards
Landscaping
Overgrown or neglected landscaping is subject to code enforcement.
LDR §4.6.12 – Landscaping Requirements
Noise Ordinance
Music, speakers, and outdoor sound must not exceed allowable limits.
Chapter 99, Sec. 99.03(A)(1)(a); Sec. 99.05(A)(1)(a)(i) – Noise Regulations