Sign permits are an essential part of getting your next sign legally installed.  Almost all jurisdictions and cities have their own sign code and becoming well versed with each jurisdiction's code can be difficult and time consuming if you don't have experience.  That’s why you can trust the project management staff at Advance Sign Group to acquire your next sign permit.  Because of our experience across many states, cities, townships, and even countries we’ve become experts in translating sign codes.

When is a sign permit needed?  A sign permit is required before most exterior signs are installed. This includes all types of signs from freestanding signs, wall signs, and marquee signs.  It isn’t unusual if some cities and jurisdictions even require a temporary banner permit.  Advance Sign Group will also assist in acquiring electrical permits and zoning permits that are often required when applying for a sign permit.

Most Sign Permits require the following information:

• Size (area) and dimension of the sign

• Location of the sign on the property or building (site plan)

• Copy of the sign text

• Photographs of the property indicating where the sign is to be located

• Scaled drawings showing how the sign is constructed & how the sign is to be installed

• Sign permits generally take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks for approval to be granted.  However, some cities require appearing in front of a review board or committee and the process could last up to 6 weeks.  This information is important when preparing a grand opening or re-opening of a location.  

Permit costs vary from city to city.  Fortunately a sign permit is valid for as long as the sign remains in the original location that it was installed.  

What happens when a sign permit is denied by the local jurisdiction? If a sign permit application is denied, sometimes the jurisdiction may allow you to apply for a sign variance.  A sign variance is usually a last resort in getting what is wanted from the jurisdiction. Sign variances can be expensive and may take months to be approved, if approved at all. Advance Sign Group has applied for a number of sign variances in different jurisdictions successfully. If your sign permit is denied, we are happy to take the time to apply for a Sign Variance on your company’s behalf. 

Leave it to your national sign source, Advance Sign Group on permitting your next sign project.