Sign Permitting Made Easy: What You Need to Know
Installing a new sign is exciting — but before you can show off your brand to the world, there’s an important step - permitting. Sign Design offers a full range of permitting services to assist you through the process.
What Is a Sign Permit?
A sign permit is an official approval from your local government that allows you to install or modify signage on your property. Most cities and towns require permits to ensure that signs are safe, meet zoning laws, and align with the community appearance standards.
Skipping the permitting process can lead to fines, delays, or even sign removal.
When Do You Need a Permit?
Not every sign needs a permit, but you will likely need one if you are:
installing a new permanent sign.
changing the size, structure, or location of an existing sign.
adding lighting or digital features.
putting up a long-term banner or temporary sign.
Some cities, towns, or sign types will require additional approvals, like the Zoning Board of Appeals or Design Review Board, which can add to the permit timeline. Sign Design will keep you informed of additional approvals required with cost and timeline.
Who Issues Sign Permits?
Permits are typically issued by the city or town where your business is located. Some areas also have extra regulations for:
historic districts.
downtown zones or overlay areas.
homeowners associations (HOAs) or property management groups.
Each municipality has its own codes and processes — and Sign Design knows how to navigate them.
What is required for a Permit Application?
A complete permit application includes:
a certified scaled site plan showing sign location.
detailed drawings of the sign, including dimensions and materials.
engineering specs if the sign is large or freestanding.
property owner approval or signature.
application forms and permit fees.
Sign Design can handle all of this for you, so nothing slips through the cracks.
How Long Does It Take?
Permit timelines can vary based on the complexity of the project and additional approvals needed.
Once your project is approved and we have all the required information, Sign Design will submit the permit within 5 days.
Cities and towns have up to 30 days to review the permit application.
We will provide you with a timeline up front and keep you informed every step of the way.
How We Help
We take the stress out of sign permitting by managing the process for you from start to finish. Our services include:
detailed sign layouts.
site surveys to check code compliance and ideal placement.
code research to ensure your sign meets local regulations.
prep and submission of all permit and special applications.
coordination with city and town offices and boards.
attendance and required review meetings.
status tracking and updates throughout the process.
Tips for a Smoother Process
Start early. Permitting can be a time factor in your project.
Have property information ready. The owner authorization form is an important first step. (Link again – same document)
Be flexible. Sometimes small adjustments can make a sign code-compliant without compromising your design.
